Premium 9-Day Japan Luxury Highlights with Tokyo & Kyoto
From SAR 39,438 /person
Twin room

Premium 9-Day Japan Luxury Highlights with Tokyo & Kyoto

Operated by: Luxury Escapes Tours
Book up until  
Overview
Tour style: Premium
9 days
5 places
1 country
16 people max.
18+ yrs
moderate
Fully Guided Tour
5 star hotels
From
SAR 39,438 /person
SAR 39,043 /person with 
Twin room
Call 800 850 1445
About the Tour
Your tour takes you to:
Tokyo
Hakone
Kyoto
Nara
Osaka

Watch Japan’s ancient cities, modern metropolises and diverse landscapes unfold on this nine-day luxury tour from Tokyo. With five-star accommodation and cultural dining experiences throughout, you will discover Japan from striking perspectives. In Tokyo, visit sacred Senso-ji, the city’s oldest Buddhist temple, then find tranquillity in the serene landscapes of Hakone and the majestic waters of Lake Ashi.

At your five-star ryokan stay in Hakone, refresh your body and soul in the spa town’s naturally occurring hot springs and savour an authentic kaiseki dinner. Revel in a lightning-fast Shinkansen train journey to Kyoto and admire the many Shinto shrines that gave it the name ‘The City of a Thousand Temples’. In Kyoto, partake in a traditional tea ceremony, where you’ll experience the art of Japanese matcha preparation.

Then, travel through Nara – Japan’s once-upon-a-time capital – on your way to Osaka, the culinary bowl of Japan. Explore luxury boutiques in Shinsaibashi and sample mouthwatering takoyaki and okonomiyaki in Dotonbori’s neon-lit streets. Make the most of your guide’s extensive local knowledge, while spending your days exploring Japan’s must-see destinations.

Cherry blossom dates available: See Japan through a pink-hued lens with dates available during the ephemeral cherry blossom season — there’s no experience quite like it!

Why you’ll love this tour
Stay in the five-star Gora Kadan ryokan with a traditional kaiseki dinner
Travel onboard the Shinkansen bullet train at unthinkable speed on your way to Kyoto
Sip matcha during a traditional tea ceremony in Kyoto, garbed in a kimono
Overview
Tour style: Premium
9 days
5 places
1 country
16 people max.
18+ yrs
moderate
Fully Guided Tour
5 star hotels
From
SAR 39,438 /person
SAR 39,043 /person with 
Twin room
Call 800 850 1445
Key benefits of Premium Tours
Dedicated agent
Personalised support with a dedicated Tours Concierge agent
Five-star accommodation
Elevated five-star hotels to ensure enhanced comfort and quality
Max 16 travellers
A more personal and immersive experience at every destination with a maximum of 16 travellers
Itinerary & map
What you'll see

Konnichiwa, and welcome to Japan! Upon your arrival at Tokyo International Airport (HND) or Narita International Airport (NRT), you will be greeted and transferred to your five-star hotel in Tokyo.

One of the world’s greatest metropolises, Tokyo is brimming with life and culture, both historical and contemporary. Spend your leisure time browsing the neon-lit streets for quaint ramen bars or Michelin-starred omakases, spot rare vintage items through shop windows and explore the forested paths of the city’s many great parks. Or, simply rest before tomorrow’s exploration.

Arrival & Transfers:

Please book your flights to arrive at Tokyo International Airport (HND) or Narita International Airport (NRT) at any time. Airport transfers are included on the first day of your tour. Your transfer will meet you on arrival and take you to your hotel. Check-in on Day 1 is at 3pm.

Inclusions
Hilton Odaiba (Twin Hilton Guest Room) or similar

Following breakfast at your hotel, meet with your guide at 8am in the lobby for a day of discovery in Tokyo.

Your day begins in the historic Asakusa district with a visit to Tokyo’s oldest and most famous Buddhist temple, Senso-ji. Marvel at the giant Kaminarimon ‘Thunder’ Gate before strolling down Nakamise Street. Dating back to the 17th century, this shopping arcade has over 90 stalls selling everything from samurai swords to matcha ice cream – some have been run by the same family for generations.

After a lunch at leisure meal, enjoy a break from the city hustle with a visit to the tranquil Meiji Jingu shrine. Dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, this site is hugged beautifully by sprawling gardens and attracts millions of visitors for prayer.

Later, explore the eclectic boutiques and world-renowned youth fashion of the Harajuku area. Then come together with your group in the evening for an authentic Japanese welcome dinner.

Inclusions
Hilton Odaiba (Twin Hilton Guest Room) or similar
Breakfast and Dinner

Today, journey to the Tsukiji Outer Market – a bustling hub selling fresh seafood and other local delicacies. Grab some market-fresh sushi and soak up the atmosphere, exploring the sprawling stalls full of culinary treasures.

Next, your group will be treated to a hands-on sushi-making class, where you will learn traditional handroll methods and enjoy your own mouthwatering creations.

Following your foodie experience, head to the Imperial Palace and watch as the castle’s Edo-era fortifications dance in the surrounding moat and stroll the East Gardens. Your next visit to the nearby Tokyo Station is starkly different, with its blend of Renaissance- and Baroque-inspired design.

Finally reach Ginza, an upscale shopping district with luxury brands from across the globe. Dinner tonight is at your leisure.

Inclusions
Hilton Odaiba (Twin Hilton Guest Room) or similar
Breakfast and Lunch

It’s time to leave behind the dizzying highs of Tokyo for the serene Lake Ashi. Once arrived, take some time to enjoy lunch at leisure before taking a gentle walk around the area as you take in surrounding forests and Lake Ashi views.

Follow your walk with a thrilling ride on the Hakone Ropeway to the volcanic valley of Owakudani. This scenic town surrounds a crater formed during the last eruption of Mount Hakone and is known for a special type of egg boiled in sulfurous spring water.

A traditional ryokan will be your home tonight. Once the summer villa of the Imperial Family, five-star Gora Kadan is the perfect place to decompress. Bathe in its hot springs and recharge with a traditional onsen bath before an authentic kaiseki multi-course dinner.

Travel time: Train – approx. two hours

Signature highlights

Five-star ryokan stay with traditional kaiseki dinner

Inclusions
Hakone Gora Kadan (Standard Japanese Room) or similar
Breakfast and Dinner

Bid farewell to Hakone, then bus to Odawara where you’ll take a Shinkansen bullet train to Kyoto. Feel the rush as the landscape whizzes by, unveiling the diverse vistas of Japan’s scenic countryside.

Upon arrival at Kyoto Station, meet your transfer to Gion, the famous geisha district. Savour lunch on your own before joining a traditional tea ceremony, where you’ll dress in a traditional kimono and experience the tranquil art of Japanese matcha preparation, enjoyed in an authentic setting.

In the evening, head to your hotel for check-in and some free time to relax.

Travel time: Train – approx. two hours

Signature highlights

Shinkansen bullet train from Odawara to Kyoto

Traditional matcha tea ceremony in Kyoto

Inclusions
Dusit Thani Kyoto (Deluxe Room) or similar
Breakfast

Today is yours to explore the city. Roll into Kyoto’s time capsule of laneways filled with tea houses, izakayas and geisha – if you can spot them vanishing down the back alleys.

At 5.30pm your group will meet in the lobby for a special dining experience with an apprentice geisha, known as a maiko. Savour a traditional spread before returning to your luxurious accommodation.

Inclusions
Dusit Thani Kyoto (Deluxe Room) or similar
Breakfast and Dinner
Personalise your day with optional experiences
Available when booking your tour. Select one per time slot.

After breakfast at your hotel, set your sights on Osaka. On the way, stop in Nara, where you will begin by exploring the Todai-ji Temple – a massive wooden complex containing one of Japan’s largest bronze buddhas. Stroll the grounds alongside the tame 1,000 Sika deer known to wander through Nara Park and sneakily nudge your hand for a treat.

After arriving at your accommodation in Osaka, the evening is yours.

Travel time: Coach – approx. four hours

Inclusions
Hilton Osaka (Standard Twin Room) or similar
Breakfast and Lunch

This morning, take in some of the city’s best landmarks, including the wonderful Osaka Castle. Japanese samurai Toyotomi Hideyoshi intended the castle to become the centre of a new, unified Japan under Toyotomi rule. Continue to the busy district of Shinsaibashi and explore its quirky boutiques, then visit Dotonbori, painted bright with neon signs above its myriad food vendors.

Conclude your opulent journey through Japan with a farewell dinner, featuring authentic okonomiyaki (Osaka’s specialty savoury pancake cooked on a teppan griddle).

Inclusions
Hilton Osaka (Standard Twin Room) or similar
Breakfast and Dinner

As your time in Japan comes to an end, meet in the hotel lobby after checkout for your transfer to the airport.

Departure & Transfers:

Checkout on your final day is at 12pm. Please book your flights to depart from Kansai International Airport (KIX) or Osaka International Airport (ITM) at any time. Airport transfers are included on the last day of your tour. Your transfer will meet you at your hotel and take you to the airport.

Inclusions
Breakfast
Highlights & inclusions
The following are included in your tour package:

Tradition meets luxury at Gora Kadan, an exquisite retreat among the serene landscapes of Hakone. Steeped in history, this traditional inn was once the villa of the Kanin-no-miya imperial family. Today, it stands as a testament to the past, offering guests a unique opportunity to step back in time while indulging in the finest modern comforts. Soak in the soothing waters of Hakone’s ancient hot springs, surrounded by verdant mountain ranges. Retreat to your traditional-style tatami mat room, stroll through meticulously designed Japanese gardens and savour authentic kaiseki haute cuisine.

To make your way from Hakone to Kyoto, board the legendary shinkansen bullet train! Embrace modernity wholeheartedly as you travel from Odawara to Kyoto at up to a breathtaking 280 kilometres-per-hour, watching landscapes of ancient shrines and verdant hills morph into modern city streets around you. This remarkable journey offers scenic views of Japan’s countryside, delivering you to Kyoto with lasting memories of Japan’s diverse landscapes.

On arrival in Kyoto, another thrilling cultural experience awaits: a traditional tea ceremony. Don a kimono and see how the seemingly simple task of preparing a drink for a guest has become an art form. Take part in the ritualised performance of Japanese matcha preparation, a soothing practice meant to promote wellbeing and mindfulness.

  • Stay in the five-star Gora Kadan ryokan with a traditional kaiseki dinner
  • Travel onboard the Shinkansen bullet train at unthinkable speed on your way to Kyoto
  • Sip matcha during a traditional tea ceremony in Kyoto, garbed in a kimono
  • 14 meals included – eight breakfasts, two lunches and four dinners
  • Explore Tokyo’s Tsukiji Outer Market and discover Asakusa’s historic Senso-ji Temple
  • Learn the traditional art of sushi making in Tokyo
  • Visit placid Lake Ashi and discover the healing thermal waters of Hakone
  • Meet a geisha-in-training over a traditional meal in Gion
  • Tour Nara’s Todaiji Temple and bow to the friendly local deer at Nara Park
  • See the immense stone fortification of Osaka Castle and the bustling street action in Dotonbori
  • Comfortable group coach transportation throughout, with return airport transfers
Dates & pricing
Sep 9, 2025
Tuesday
Sep 17, 2025
Wednesday
Guaranteed departure
From
SAR 39,438 /person
SAR 39,043 /person with 
Twin room
Oct 14, 2025
Tuesday
Oct 22, 2025
Wednesday
Guaranteed departure
From
SAR 40,598 /person
SAR 40,192 /person with 
Twin room
September
Sep 9, 2025
Tuesday
Sep 17, 2025
Wednesday
Guaranteed departure
From
SAR 39,438 /person
SAR 39,043 /person with 
Twin room
October
Oct 14, 2025
Tuesday
Oct 22, 2025
Wednesday
Guaranteed departure
From
SAR 40,598 /person
SAR 40,192 /person with 
Twin room
Things to know

Booking Summary: After you book, please follow the instructions in your booking summary email and ensure you complete your Traveller Details in full.

  • Luxury Escapes asks that you please complete the Traveller Details form in your ‘My Escapes’ account within 7 days of booking. Following its completion, our Tours Concierge Team will be in touch to assist with any additional arrangements – including flights.
  • Traveller Details are required in full to confirm all arrangements for your tour. Please complete the Traveller Details form as soon as possible in your ‘My Escapes’ account. Failure to complete the form within 40 days of departure may result in losing your spot on the tour.
  • If your booking is on a non-guaranteed departure, this initial email is not your tour confirmation. Tours often require a minimum number of travellers to go ahead, so your departure may not be guaranteed immediately.
  • Please note that for guaranteed departures, a minimum of two people are required to book. In the event that only one passenger has booked, you will be given the opportunity to move your departure to another date.
  • Once there is an update on the status of your tour, you will be contacted via email by the Luxury Escapes Tours Concierge Team, and they will advise whether the tour has been confirmed. Please do not book flights or make any non-flexible arrangements until you receive this update.
  • Should you require assistance with your tour, please contact our Tours Concierge Team at tours@luxuryescapes.com, who will be happy to assist with any of your queries and who will support you right up until you return from your journey.
  • Travellers 17 and under are not permitted on this tour.

Update 19 December 2024: Amendments & Cancellations section updated, please see below.

Please note, our 7-Day Change of Mind ‘No Questions Asked’ Refund Guarantee and Date Change policy does not apply to Tours

  • All deposits, service fee, and payments are non-refundable.
  • Where Luxury Escapes Tours may allow a cancellation for credit due to exceptional circumstances (and at its sole discretion) and where a cancellation/credit is not otherwise permitted, an additional service fee above and beyond the existing fees in the agreed payment schedules applies for A$300 per person will apply.
  • For Trusted Partner operated tours, additional fees may apply.

Date Changes

  • Changes can be made on request by contacting the Tours Concierge Team at tours@luxuryescapes.com.
  • Tours pricing is dynamic and can change at any time.
  • Additional fees and fare difference may apply.
  • Changes are not permitted after your final payment date.
  • For Trusted Partner operated tours, additional fees may apply.
  • Date change conditions listed above do not apply to flights or pre- and post-tour accommodation booked with us. Flight fulfilment and changes are governed by the airline(s) selected at the time of booking. For your air travel, you are bound by the terms and conditions and fare rules of the selected airline(s). For pre- and post-tour accommodation, these reservations are not directly linked to your tour and may require a separate cost to change, as stated in your ‘My Escapes.’

Itinerary Amendments & Changes

  • Occasionally our itineraries are updated prior to departure. This may be to accommodate changes in weather, public holidays, common seasonal changes to timetables and transport routes, and unforeseen circumstances.
  • In the event of a change in itinerary (for safety reasons or due to events outside of our control) that results in cancellation or change fees toward flights (or other parts of your travel) we will notify you as soon as practicable.
  • You will be responsible for any associated costs or will otherwise have the right to a refund (less any costs incurred or paid to third parties).

Surcharges

  • After completing your booking, your tour cost may be subject to additional surcharges due to factors beyond the control of Luxury Escapes.
  • Where the cost of delivering your selected tour materially increases between the time of purchase and delivery, we reserve the right to increase the balance due. Increases may be in relation to, but not limited to, currency fluctuations, taxes, airfares, fuel surcharges, tour costs or government changes due to health and safety restrictions. A material increase will be considered one in excess of 10% of the package price.

Fine Print and package inclusions are accurate at the time of purchase and not subject to change, unless updates or corrections are specifically noted in the latest Fine Print with a timestamp. Please check the Fine Print prior to departure for any updates.

We reserve the right to modify prices for marketing and commercial reasons. Please note that full terms and conditions apply. Refer to website’s terms and conditions.

Accommodation for the duration of your tour is included in the Tour package.

  • You can find relevant accommodation details for each day of the itinerary on the Tour offer page, or in your ‘My Escapes’.

Please note:

  • Accommodation is subject to availability and may be substituted for a hotel of a similar or higher standard without notice.
  • Rooms will be made available after 3pm on the day of arrival. Checkout is required by 12pm. Early check-in and late checkout may be available upon request, subject to availability. Additional fees may apply.
  • Maximum room capacity (Twin Room) is two adults. Maximum room capacity (Solo) is one adult.
  • All special requests, such as those regarding bedding preferences, are subject to availability and can only be confirmed upon check-in. Room assignments and bedding configurations may vary based on the destination and hotel policies, and are handled directly by the hotel staff.

Pre- & Post-Tour Accommodation

Pre- and post-tour accommodation can be booked to extend your stay before or after your tour by contacting our Tours Concierge Team at tours@luxuryescapes.com.

Luxury Escapes uses a range of accommodation partners. For pre- and post-tour accommodation options where we can offer the same hotel as the start and end of your tour, your pre- and post-tour accommodation will be booked independent of your tour. If the hotel for your tour changes, this will be independent of your pre- or post-tour accommodation booking. In this instance, change fees may apply on your pre- or post-tour accommodation. If you choose to change, change fees can be found in your ‘My Escapes’.

For pre- and post-tour accommodation bookings, you may be required to check out of your room and check in again on the first or last day of your tour. You will need to confirm these details directly with the hotel.

Please contact the Tours Concierge Team at tours@luxuryescapes.com for further information.

  • Return international flights
  • Visas
  • Single supplement
  • Meals/drinks not stated in the itinerary
  • Optional activities/tours, personal expenses/transfers not mentioned
  • Travel insurance (required)
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Dining inclusions do not include drinks (unless otherwise stated). Menus are subject to change without notice.
  • Passengers are permitted one piece of baggage with maximum total dimensions of 160cm.
  • Passengers are permitted one additional, smaller piece of hand-luggage with a maximum weight of 7kg on tour.

Transfers

  • Arrival and departure transfers are available on the first and last day of your tour only.
  • If you have booked your pre- and post-tour accommodation through Luxury Escapes, transfers may be available for select tours (not available for Trusted Partner operated tours).
  • For complimentary transfers to be fulfilled outside of arrival and departure date, all pre- and post-tour accommodation bookings must be booked through Luxury Escapes no later than 60 days before departure. After this time, any pre- or post-tour accommodation bookings made will not be eligible for complimentary transfers.
  • If you have booked pre- or post-tour accommodation outside of Luxury Escapes, you will forfeit your complimentary airport transfers.
  • Please note ‘Private Transfers’ refers to transfers that are exclusive for your tour group and may be shared among other members of your group if arriving on the same flight or another flight arriving within a 30-minute window.
  • Flight information must be provided to Luxury Escapes 60 days prior to departure in order to book transfers. Please see Destination information for airport pick-up and drop-off information.

Tipping

  • Tipping and gratuities are not expected in this destination, but are welcome at your discretion.

Please note:

  • Travellers over 85 must be fit for travel. This tour includes walking up and down stairs and travel on public transport at times, and will move at a fast pace.
  • Double beds are not customary at hotels in Japan. Expect twin bedding at most accommodation.

Travel Insurance

  • Travel insurance is required on all our tours, which (at a minimum) covers medical expenses and repatriation. You may not be permitted to join the tour group if evidence of travel insurance is not provided prior to your trip. If you are unable to obtain travel insurance for whatever reason, you may be required to sign a waiver and/or provide a letter from a medical practitioner which confirms you are fit for travel. For any enquiries regarding travel insurance, please call 1300 88 99 00 or email sales@luxuryescapes.com.

Passports & Visas

  • A visa may be required. It is the traveller’s responsibility to ensure they hold a current visa for the countries visited on tour. If the traveller is on a non-Australian passport, a valid re-entry visa may be required.
  • You are responsible for visas, entry, health and other requirements, and any documents required by laws, regulations, orders and/or requirements of countries visited. Luxury Escapes and/or its servants and agents are not responsible for passport and visa requirements or for any loss you sustain for failing to comply with laws, regulations, orders and/or requirements of countries visited.
  • A valid passport with a minimum validity of 6 months beyond your return travel date is required for all passengers (including children and infants).

Traveller Details

  • Traveller Details must be completed for each individual traveller.
  • Travellers must advise of any medical conditions or dietary requirements. Failure to provide such information in advance of your tour may result in an inability to cater to your requirements.
  • We work with exceptional local tour providers to present uniquely crafted packages that encompass sightseeing tours and excursions. Our tour provider partners are dedicated to making every effort to accommodate specific requirements. However, it should be noted that the extent to which they can address mobility and accessibility needs may vary, depending on the nature of the sightseeing tour and activities involved. Please contact tours@luxuryescapes.com so we can advise whether your specific needs can be accommodated.
  • Special dietary requirements can be catered for in most cases, however, on occasion this may not be possible due to location, lack of availability of unique ingredients, and other extenuating circumstances. It is always advised to carry any necessary supplies with you.
  • Passport details are required for all bookings. In some cases, a digital copy of your passport may be requested by Luxury Escapes to book certain elements of your trip.
  • If a photo of your passport is requested, failure to provide valid photo ID will result in your booking being cancelled and all monies paid remaining non-refundable. When requested, a digital copy of your passport must be provided for each guest at least 90 days prior to your tour departure.
  • Should you require any assistance with your Traveller Details, please contact our Tours Concierge Team at tours@luxuryescapes.com.

Tour Pace

  • It’s important to note that specific activities and intensity levels may vary between different tour operators and destinations. When selecting a group tour, it’s advisable to carefully review the itinerary, activity descriptions and fitness requirements to ensure a suitable match for your preferences and physical capabilities.
    • Relaxed: Leisurely pace with limited walking or physical demands. Opportunity for ample free time and leisure activities. Suitable for individuals seeking a laidback experience.
    • Moderate: Usually more than one day in a location. Balanced mix of exploration and physical engagement. Suitable for participants with a reasonable level of fitness. Exploring cities on foot, visiting landmarks and guided excursions. Requires a moderate level of stamina and physical activity.
    • Active: Activities most days. Generally, not staying in a location for two days or more. Suitable for participants with high fitness levels and a sense of adventure.

Travel Styles

  • Fully Guided Tour: You’ll have a tour director and driver with you throughout the entire trip, from start to finish.
  • Partially Guided Tour: You’ll have a tour driver and local guides at specific locations or portions of the trip, but not the entire time. There might be different local guides for different regions.
  • Self-Guided Tour: You will not have a guide for your trip. You will be provided detailed trip notes with elements, such as accommodation and transport, pre-booked for you.

Health and Fitness Acknowledgement:

  • Travellers acknowledge that they are required to have a good level of health and fitness to undertake the activities on this tour.
  • There are limitations to the degree of accommodations that can be made if travellers are unable to partake in the included activities on this tour. Please consider suitability as additional costs could apply.
  • Travellers also acknowledge and agree that neither we nor the tour provider will be able to provide medical or other assistance in the event that they are unable to complete any aspect of the tour as a result of their health or physical condition (nor are we liable for any loss, damage, expense, injury or death arising from such).

Your tour begins at Tokyo International Airport (HND) or Narita International Airport (NRT) and ends at Kansai International Airport (KIX) or Osaka International Airport (ITM), with return airport transfers.

Return flights are not included in your package and must be purchased separately. If your chosen tour departure date is guaranteed at the time of booking, you may be able to purchase flights immediately. If your tour departure date is not yet guaranteed (still pending minimum numbers), flights should not be booked until you receive an update on the status of your tour.

Please book your flights to arrive at Tokyo International Airport (HND) or Narita International Airport (NRT) at any time on Day 1 and depart from Kansai International Airport (KIX) or Osaka International Airport (ITM) at any time on Day 9.

Return airport transfers are included in your tour on the first and last day only.

Important: Please allow for travelling time from international countries. International flights are not included in your package and must be purchased separately. It is your responsibility to make your own travel arrangements and ensure that you arrive at your starting location on your chosen tour start date.

A visa may be required for the destination you are visiting. It is each traveller’s responsibility to ensure they are holding a current visa. Please take the time to visit our preferred vendor website, Visas Direct, to assist you with any visa application requirements and processes. If you require any supporting documentation when applying for your visa, please let us know and we will be more than happy to assist. Click here to visit the website.

Need flights? Our dedicated flights concierge can assist with all your flight requirements (subject to availability). Contact sales@luxuryescapes.com.

Important Destination Information:

Japan

Time zone: GMT+9

Telephone: +81

Currency: Japanese Yen (JPY)

Accessing money: Cash is widely accepted and the preferred method of payment. ATMs are readily accessible in 7-Eleven. Ask your tour leader/guide about the best place to change money once you begin your tour. Please note: some ATMs may only accept four-digit pins.

Language: Japanese

Climate: Japan has four distinct seasons: cherry blossoms in spring (March-May), cool and leafy in autumn (September-November) and humid and muggy at times in summer (June-August) with snowfall at higher altitudes during winter (December-February).

From SAR 39,438 /person
Twin room