+1 (646) 972-4274  explore@socaislands.com
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From $6,899

The Japan Trip

9 days, 8 nights Japan
View departure dates
  • Tour code

    JPNADV02

  • Start

    Kyoto

  • End

    Tokyo

  • Min. age

    16 years old

  • Group size

    6-16 persons

  • Trip style

    Explorer

  • Trip pace

    Active

  • Language

    English

This small-group Japan adventure is designed for travelers in their 20s and 30s, offering an exciting mix of ancient traditions and modern city life. From serene temples to neon-lit streets, and tranquil onsens to lively karaoke bars, this trip immerses you in everything that makes Japan unforgettable.

What you will see and do

Experience Japan’s culture firsthand through shrines, villages, and immersive workshops.

Experience Japan’s culture firsthand through shrines, villages, and immersive workshops.

Savor authentic cuisine, from sushi-making to street food tours, paired with local sake.

Savor authentic cuisine, from sushi-making to street food tours, paired with local sake.

Relax in a traditional Japanese onsen and enjoy lively evenings of karaoke with your group.

Relax in a traditional Japanese onsen and enjoy lively evenings of karaoke with your group.

What's included

All activities mentioned on the itinerary

Accommodations in double rooms

Experienced Soca Islands Host with you throughout the trip

One farewell group lunch or dinner

Max 20 travellers per group

Arrival and departure airport transfers

Group transportation

Soca Islanders must provide proof that they have purchased travel insurance for the duration of their trip. Remember, international flights aren't included and prices are based on sharing a double room with two beds. If you'd prefer a private double (for couples), single room, or private transportation for you and your group, you can add this during the booking process or by contacting our Customer Experience team.

Group itinerary

Welcome to Kyoto, a city of ancient temples, bamboo forests, and geisha-lined streets. If you arrive early, stretch your legs with a walk through the iconic torii gates of Fushimi Inari or wander the towering Arashiyama bamboo grove. Kyoto’s slower pace makes it the perfect place to ease into your adventure. By late afternoon, meet your fellow travelers and feel the “first-night buzz” as you bond over excitement and anticipation. In the evening, toast to new friendships over your first taste of Japan’s incredible cuisine.

Immerse yourself in Kyoto’s rich history, art, and spirituality. Begin with a visit to a 1,200-year-old temple in the peaceful wooded hills east of the city. Then, take part in a private pottery lesson and embrace wabi-sabi, the Japanese philosophy of finding beauty in imperfection. After lunch, enjoy a Zen meditation session guided by a local monk. The evening is free to explore Kyoto, perhaps sampling extra-crispy gyoza at a local favorite.

Take a scenic day trip to a charming town less than an hour from Kyoto. Hike up Mt. Kurama, enjoying breathtaking forested views and spotting local wildlife along the way. After the trek, explore the quaint town of Kibune and savor a leisurely lunch. End the day with a sunset stroll along the Kamo River and through Pontocho Alley, filled with cozy izakayas and hidden cocktail bars. Don’t forget to try your first udon or ramen slurping encouraged!

Travel to Osaka, known as “Japan’s Kitchen.” Start with Osaka Castle for sweeping city views, then dive into the neon-lit streets of Dotombori. On a guided foodie tour, sample local specialties including takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and sweet taiyaki pastries. Discover hidden culinary gems and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere before returning to Kyoto with a satisfied appetite.

Hop on a bullet train to the Izu Peninsula, stopping first at a local green tea plantation. Wander the lush fields, savor the fresh aroma, and sample tea straight from the source. Next, unwind at Shuzenji in a traditional ryokan, soaking in natural hot springs and enjoying the serene ambiance of bamboo forests and temples a perfect moment of rest and relaxation.

Travel to Tokyo, the world’s largest metropolis, and kick off your city adventure in Harajuku with its colorful street fashion and quirky shops. Then, find a moment of calm at Meiji Jingu Shrine, a forested spiritual sanctuary. End your first night with an essential Tokyo experience: karaoke. Grab a mic, sing your heart out, and immerse yourself in one of Japan’s most beloved pastimes.

Seafood lovers rejoice! Begin the morning at Tsukiji Market, exploring stalls and soaking in the bustling atmosphere. Then, participate in a hands-on cooking class, mastering the art of sushi-making with your group. Afterward, take a stroll through Hamarikyu Gardens, or spend the evening wandering Tokyo’s vibrant streets.

Spend your final full day exploring Tokyo’s energetic neighborhoods. Head to Akihabara for an immersive experience in the city’s electronics and gaming hub. Test your skills in arcades, try out claw machines, and embrace your inner child. Finish the day with a celebratory group dinner, sharing stories, laughter, and a final toast to the memories and friendships forged on this journey.

Before departing, gather for one last breakfast together, reflecting on the incredible experiences you’ve shared. While this adventure may be ending, the memories and friendships will last a lifetime. For those staying longer in Asia, Vietnam and Thailand offer exciting opportunities for more exploration.

Tour FAQS

Fly into Osaka (ITM) or Kansai (KIX, and out of Haneda (HND) or Narita (NRT).

Yes. If you arrive on Day 1 of your adventure or book pre-tour accommodation with us, your airport arrival transfer is included. If you choose alternative pre-tour accommodation or arrive by another mode of transport, you’ll need to arrange your own arrival transfer.

Our arrival transfers are private to Soca Islands and are organised in groups based on flight times. Sometimes this means a short wait at the airport until other flights arrive.

While we’re not medical professionals, we want to help you prepare for a safe and healthy adventure. Here are some tips:

  1. Consult with a healthcare professional: Schedule an appointment with your travel nurse or doctor at least eight weeks before your adventure to get any necessary vaccines or medications.
  2. Up-to-date medical advice:
    • US residents: Check the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.
    • UK residents: Visit the NHS Fit For Travel website.
    • Australian residents: Refer to the Smart Traveler Health website.

3. Government travel advice:

    • US residents: Consult the US Department of State Travel Advice.
    • UK residents: Check the FCDO Travel Advice.
    • Australian residents: Visit the Smart Traveler website.

    • 4. Medication tips: If you take prescription medication, bring enough to last the entire trip, plus a few extra days in case of delays. Carry a copy of your prescription in case you need to visit a clinic abroad.

    We hope this helps you prepare for a safe and enjoyable adventure.

    There are no scheduled activities on the final day, so feel free to book your departure at your own convenience.

    We recommend arriving before 3 pm on Day 1 to make it in time for the welcome event. But don’t worry no matter when you land, we’ll have an airport transfer ready for you.

    Please Refer to your government’s travel advice or consult your local consulate. Remember, passport and visa requirements can change, so make sure to stay updated.

    Excluding alcohol, we suggest budgeting around USD $40.00 per day for extras.

    While we’re not medical professionals, we want to help you prepare for a safe and healthy adventure. Here are some tips:

    1. Consult with a healthcare professional: Schedule an appointment with your travel nurse or doctor at least eight weeks before your adventure to get any necessary vaccines or medications.
    2. Up-to-date medical advice:
      • US residents: Check the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.
      • UK residents: Visit the NHS Fit For Travel website.
      • Australian residents: Refer to the Smart Traveler Health website.

    3. Government travel advice:

    • US residents: Consult the US Department of State Travel Advice.
    • UK residents: Check the FCDO Travel Advice.
    • Australian residents: Visit the Smart Traveler website.

    • 4. Medication tips: If you take prescription medication, bring enough to last the entire trip, plus a few extra days in case of delays. Carry a copy of your prescription in case you need to visit a clinic abroad.

    We hope this helps you prepare for a safe and enjoyable adventure.

    Please keep in mind that our itinerary, activities, and hotels might change. These adjustments could happen with little notice due to factors like availability, weather conditions, seasonal shifts, or other circumstances beyond our control. Rest assured, we always aim to minimise any impact on your experience. Occasionally, we may tweak the itinerary to try out fresh ideas and keep the adventure exciting.

    We believe solo travelers shouldn’t have to pay extra to explore the world. That’s why our group trips are designed around shared accommodation and do not include a single supplement. Solo travelers joining our group trips are paired in twin or multi-share rooms with another traveler of the same sex for the duration of the trip.

    Some of our Independent trips are structured differently. For these itineraries, solo travelers will need to book at the single occupancy rate.

    Tips are not included in the cost of this tour. Remember, tipping is entirely at your discretion and based on what you feel comfortable with.

    Would you like to learn more or customise our The Japan Trip trip?

    Have questions about accommodations, accessibility, group preferences, or dietary needs? Complete the form below and our team will get back to you shortly.

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