Japan Winter Wonder | 2025-2026

Japan Winter Wonder | 2025-2026

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10 Days From

$2985

$2559

Japan Winter Wonder | 2025-2026

10 Days Starting in Osaka, Japan and ending in Tokyo, Japan

Visiting: Osaka, Kyoto, Hiroshima, Tokyo

Tour operator:

Contiki

Tour code:

JAPF25

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

18-35

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English
From: $2985 $2559 Operator discount: -$298 Travel Club discount: -$128 -14%

NB: Prices correct on 25-Dec-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Japan with the "Japan Winter Wonder" tour for 2025-2026. Begin your adventure in Osaka, where you can explore historical sites and indulge in local cuisine. Travel to Kyoto for a guided tour of its stunning temples and vibrant geisha culture. Experience the thrill of the bullet train to Hiroshima, where you'll delve into the city's poignant history and visit the serene Miyajima Island. En route to Tokyo, enjoy breathtaking views from the Hakone Ropeway, with a chance to glimpse Mount Fuji. In Tokyo, immerse yourself in the city's dynamic energy, from the bustling streets of Shibuya to the fashion-forward district of Harajuku. With free days to explore and a variety of included experiences, this tour offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and modernity, ensuring a memorable winter escape in the heart of Japan.

Highlights

  • Explore the historic Osaka Castle and meet the friendly deer in Nara.

  • Discover the traditional beauty of Kyoto with its temples, gardens, and geisha culture.

  • Experience the speed of the bullet train on your journey to Hiroshima.

  • Visit the Peace Park and Peace Memorial Museum in Hiroshima to learn about its history.

  • Take a ferry to Miyajima Island and see the stunning Itsukushima Shrine.

  • Enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Fuji from the Hakone Ropeway.

  • Immerse yourself in Tokyo's vibrant culture, from the bustling Shibuya crossing to the fashion-forward Harajuku district.

  • Explore the historic Sensoji Temple and shop along Nakamise Street in Tokyo.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Start Osaka

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Location: Osaka

Accommodation Name: Ibis Budget Osaka Umeda (or similar)

Kon'nichiwa friends, and welcome to the land of the rising sun. Famed for its beauty, culture, cuisine and just a touch of crazy, this is one trip you won't be forgetting any time soon. Get settled into your hotel before joining forces with your Trip Manager & travel crew & head out to explore the local area.

Day 2: Osaka

たけほがら

Location: Osaka

Accommodation Name: Ibis Budget Osaka Umeda (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Osaka is all yours today! Head to Osaka Castle or Sumiyoshi-taisa for a dose of history, or to Nara to meet the cutest deers ever! This evening, you have the option to gobble down a delicious meal at an Izakaya - traditional little restaurants with rice beer, sake & locals finishing up their days. Still not done for the day? We sense some traditional Japanese PATI (that's Japanese for partying) and karaoke may be on the cards....

Day 3: Osaka To Kyoto

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Location: Kyoto

Accommodation Name: Ibis Styles Kyoto Station (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Tuck in to your tasty breakfast this morning, you're going to need the food fuel for a full day in Kyoto. Arriving into Kyoto, we'll kick things off with a guided tour of this beautiful, traditional city. Take in the sights of the city including temples, gardens, colourful shrines & world famous geisha girls. This evening is free for you to get to know Kyoto your way, most likely trying out local cuisine in the Shirakawa area & getting to grips with the buzzy Kyoto nightlife.

Day 4: Kyoto

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Location: Kyoto

Accommodation Name: Ibis Styles Kyoto Station (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Didn't feel like you had enough time yesterday to really get under the skin of this utterly unique city? We've got good news for you - today is completely free for Kyoto adventuring. Ask your Trip Manager for the essentials on what to eat and where to go, then our best advice? Go get yourself a little lost, it's undeniably the best way to get to know a new city.

Day 5: Kyoto To Hiroshima

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Location: Hiroshima

Accommodation Name: Hotel Vista Hiroshima (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Ready for a totally new experience? This morning it's all aboard the bullet train, travelling at a cool 320km/hr as we make our way to Hiroshima. A city remembered as the world's first atomic bomb target during WWII, we'll learn about both the past and present on a sightseeing tour. The rest of the day will then be free to get to know Hiroshima however suits you best - food, shopping, history, it's all here at your fingertips.

Day 6: Hiroshima (Including Miyajima)

CRISTINA TIRON

Location: Hiroshima

Accommodation Name: Hotel Vista Hiroshima (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

We'll start the day with a ferry ride over to Miyajima Island where beautiful scenery and miniature deer await us. If you're impressed by the traditional Japanese gates at the entrance, just wait until you've seen the main event - the stunning Itsukushima Shrine. Culture goals ticked, we'll make our way back to Hiroshima to dig a little deeper into the city's noble history.

Day 7: Hiroshima To Tokyo (Including Hakone)

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Location: Tokyo

Accommodation Name: Daiichi Ryogoku Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Tokyo you're firmly in our sights but on route, we'll make a stop in the peaceful mountain town of Hakone. Breathtaking views of some of Japan's most famous sights are courtesy of the Hakone Ropeway. If the weather plays nice...you might spot the magnificent Mount Fuji. Welcome to the bright lights & big city vibes of Tokyo, our home for the next 3 nights. You'll have the night to use as you wish. How about heading to Shinjuku, the epicentre of Tokyo's gritty but super fun night scene.

Day 8: Tokyo

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Location: Tokyo

Accommodation Name: Daiichi Ryogoku Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

We'll dive right into this 24 hour city with a sightseeing tour of the best bits. We'll take a walk down Nakamise Street (one of the oldest shopping streets in Japan that dates back to the 1500's) to pick up treasures for family and friends back home, brave the busiest street crossing in the world (Shibuya), then round things off at the epicentre of youth culture & fashion, Harajuku. This part of town buzzes with cool vibes & crazy fashion, and we reckon you'll instantly fall in lust.

Day 9: Tokyo

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Location: Tokyo

Accommodation Name: Daiichi Ryogoku Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today's our last day in Tokyo, and our last day on tour, so let's make it one to remember. With a free day to explore Japan your way, we have a sneaking suspicion Harajuku may be calling you back - it kind of has that affect on people. Or even better, a chance to visit a unique remote-operated robot restaurant. You gotta see it to believe it!

Day 10: End Tokyo

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Location: Tokyo

Meals Included: Breakfast

And just like that, it's all over. Japan crew, it's been a hell of a 10 days, and we have a sneaking suspicion this isn't a forever goodbye…

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Stay at Ibis Budget Osaka Umeda, Ibis Styles Kyoto Station, Hotel Vista Hiroshima, and Daiichi Ryogoku Hotel or similar accommodations.

  • Meals

    Enjoy 9 breakfasts during the tour.

  • Guided Tours

    Experience guided tours in Kyoto and Hiroshima.

  • Transport

    Travel on the bullet train from Kyoto to Hiroshima.

  • Included Experiences

    Visit Kyoto's tea houses, Kiyomizu Temple, the Golden Pavilion, and Geishas. Explore Hiroshima's Peace Park and Peace Memorial Museum. Enjoy a cable car ride in Hakone with views of Mount Fuji. Discover Tokyo's Sensoji Temple, Nakamise Street, Shibuya's Shinto shrine, and the famous Shibuya crossing.

What's Not Included

  • Transfers

    Transfers from airports to hotels are not included.

  • Optional Activities

    Optional activities such as Street Kart or Mario Kart are not offered on this trip.

  • Japan Rail Pass

    A Japan Rail Pass is not provided as transport is covered during the trip.

  • Main Luggage Transport

    Main luggage will be sent forward to the next hotel via truck, and you will need to bring an overnight bag for certain destinations.

Mode of Transport

Travel across Japan with ease, including a thrilling ride on the bullet train to Hiroshima, and enjoy a scenic ferry ride to Miyajima Island, ensuring a seamless and exciting journey.

Accommodation

Stay in comfort at the Ibis Budget Osaka Umeda, Ibis Styles Kyoto Station, and Hotel Vista Hiroshima, with the final nights at Daiichi Ryogoku Hotel in Tokyo, ensuring a restful experience throughout your journey in Japan.

Dining Summary

  • 9 Breakfast (B)

FAQs

  • Nara: Do I need a visa to enter Japan? Generally, not. Most of our travellers can get a visa on arrival in Japan. But your visa requirements can change according to your citizenship (and also according to the length and purpose of your visit). We always recommend that you check out our visa guide for more information.
  • Nara: What is the currency used in Japan? The currency (that can buy you some unbeatable authentic sushi) in Japan is the Japanese Yen (¥).
  • Tokyo: How do I make my way to the starting point? Are transfers included? This will depend on which city you arrive at.TokyoTokyo is serviced by two major international airports, Narita and Haneda. You’re welcome to take a taxi to the hotel, but these tend to be quite expensive. That’s why, the best way to reach our hotel is by train. You can purchase tickets from the counter at the airport. And the journey will take you 1-2 hours.Osaka The Kansai International Airport in Osaka is around 45 minutes away from our hotel by bus. And the best way to get there is by bus, that’ll drop you off close to our hotel. You can get your tickets at the counter. We don’t recommend getting a taxi since they tend to be quite expensive.
  • Nara: What kind of luggage should I bring? What are restrictions? You can bring one bag or suitcase of 73cm x 50cm x 25cm (29” x 20” x 10”), with a max weight of 20kg (44lbs) – plus one piece of hand luggage suitable as a carry-on for flights on this trip.You’ll travel between a few destinations via the Shinkansen (bullet train), and won’t have your main luggage because of the space restrictions. But there’s no need to worry, because we’ll send everything forward to the next hotel via truck.In Hiroshima and Mt Koya, you’ll need to bring an overnight bag since you won’t have your main luggage with you. Your Trip Manager will advise you about what you should bring for each day.
  • Nara: Can bullet train tickets be used at a later date? Starstruck by the Shinkansen? Same. All bullet train tickets are one-use-only tickets (and not passes). So, you won’t be able to use them after the trip has concluded.
  • Nara: Will I be given a Japan Rail (JR) Pass? A Japan Rail Pass can be quite handy while travelling in Japan. But since we’ve got you covered for the transport, you won’t need a Japan Rail Pass. You’re always welcome to ask your Trip Manager where you can buy one once the trip ends.
  • Nara: Is Street Kart or Mario Kart available as an optional activity? Currently, Street Kart or Mario Kart aren’t offered on any Contiki trip. Who knows what the future holds, though?

Included Experience

  • Kyoto: Tea houses. Kiyomizu Temple. The Golden Pavilion. Geishas. It’s all so surreal. You’ll feel like you’ve wandered into a film set.
  • Hiroshima: Visit the Peace Park and Peace Memorial Museum to commemorate the lives lost after the atomic bomb was dropped on the city.
  • Hiroshima: This way to amazing! These are the sites you always see in those impossibly tranquil pictures of Japan. IRL.
  • Hakone: Prepare to be impressed. An awesome cable car ride is set against dream-like views of Mount Fuji.
  • Tokyo: Check out the Sensoji Temple, one of the most significant temples in Japan, decked with a 5-storey pagoda. Don't forget to snap a pic under the giant red lantern!
  • Tokyo: Get a piece of Japan to take back home from one of the many little stalls here on Nakamise Street, just a short walk from the Sensoji Temple.
  • Tokyo: Visit this Shinto shrine in Shibuya, dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his consort, Empress Shoken. You'll have the chance to wander through a tranquil forest, passing under the world-famous Tori Gate. And ofc, stop for a picture in front of the many colourful Sake barrels, and make a wish at the sacred Camphor tree.
  • Tokyo: Get ready for a riot of colour and vibrant fashion. This was (and still is) a home for Japanese fashion. Grab a vintage bag, a pair of sneakers or a kawaii outfit. And don't get us started on the food! You'll find rainbow cotton candy, candy covered strawberries or a rainbow cheese sandwich.
  • Tokyo: It's only the biggest pedestrian intersection in the world! Come watch the world go by (and grab an iconic picture) on the crossing.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of accommodation can I expect during the tour?

    During the tour, you will stay in accommodations such as the Ibis Budget Osaka Umeda, Ibis Styles Kyoto Station, Hotel Vista Hiroshima, and Daiichi Ryogoku Hotel or similar establishments.

  • Will I have the opportunity to experience traditional Japanese culture during the tour?

    Yes, the tour includes opportunities to experience traditional Japanese culture, such as visiting temples and shrines in Kyoto, exploring the Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island, and enjoying the vibrant fashion and culture in Tokyo's Harajuku district.

  • Is there a chance to see Mount Fuji during the tour?

    Yes, there is a chance to see Mount Fuji during the stop in Hakone, where breathtaking views are available, especially if the weather is clear.

  • What kind of transportation will be used during the tour?

    The tour includes travel on the Shinkansen (bullet train) for certain segments, such as the journey from Kyoto to Hiroshima, and a ferry ride to Miyajima Island.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    The tour includes 9 breakfasts as part of the package.

  • Will I have free time to explore on my own during the tour?

    Yes, there are several days with free time for you to explore cities like Kyoto and Tokyo on your own, allowing you to discover local attractions and cuisine at your own pace.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.

Reviews of this operator

Trusted Customer  

Northern Choice plus Kaikoura

16-Jan-2023

The trip ran so smoothly and was well organised! The extra add ons were amazing and all the services were spot on. Food places were reasonable. I'm definitely booking my next contiki trip again soon!

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Sophie  

Exceptional customer service

14-Jan-2023

Contiki were exceptional in providing customer service. They provided me with lots of information and were quick in responding to all my questions. I found that they were super helpful.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

First time traveling with Contiki. Highly recommend! You’ll have a blast

17-Jan-2023

First time traveling internationally since Covid and glad I spent the trip with Contiki. The travel, lodging, meals, activities everything was planned effortlessly. Going to Greece in may with contiki. Highly recommend

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

Amazing trip. Made great friends and memories. Can’t wait for my next trip

15-Jan-2023

I had 24 people on my contiki and I think it was the perfect number, we all got to know each other well and got along great. Our tour guide was fun and knowledgeable, the hotels were nice and in great locations.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Tanner Stokes  

My amazing trip to Africa

13-Jan-2023

Sherif was an excellent tour guide. He was extremely knowledgeable about every single small detail at each site that we visited. In addition to his great service, he has a glowing spirit that made me feel like I had family with me the entire trip. Anything that I was concerned about, he always had an answer and was there to help. I truly enjoyed my experience and will purchase a tour with him in the future

Feefo Trusted Reviews

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Saturday - Monday

Jan 18, 2025 - Jan 27, 2025
$3134 $2985

Travel Club discount: -$149

Japan Winter Wonder | 2024-2025

Saturday - Monday

Jan 25, 2025 - Feb 03, 2025
$2985 $2559

Operator discount: -$298

Travel Club discount: -$128

Japan Winter Wonder | 2024-2025

Wednesday - Friday

Jan 29, 2025 - Feb 07, 2025
$2985 $2559

Operator discount: -$298

Travel Club discount: -$128

Japan Winter Wonder | 2024-2025

Saturday - Monday

Feb 08, 2025 - Feb 17, 2025
$3208 $3056

Travel Club discount: -$152

Japan Winter Wonder | 2024-2025

Saturday - Monday

Feb 15, 2025 - Feb 24, 2025
$3055 $2619

Operator discount: -$305

Travel Club discount: -$131

Japan Winter Wonder | 2024-2025

Saturday - Monday

Nov 22, 2025 - Dec 01, 2025
$3165 $2714

Operator discount: -$316

Travel Club discount: -$135

Wednesday - Friday

Nov 26, 2025 - Dec 05, 2025
$3165 $2714

Operator discount: -$316

Travel Club discount: -$135

Saturday - Monday

Nov 29, 2025 - Dec 08, 2025
$3165 $2714

Operator discount: -$316

Travel Club discount: -$135

Saturday - Monday

Dec 06, 2025 - Dec 15, 2025
$3165 $3015

Travel Club discount: -$150

Wednesday - Friday

Dec 10, 2025 - Dec 19, 2025
$3165 $2714

Operator discount: -$316

Travel Club discount: -$135

Saturday - Monday

Dec 13, 2025 - Dec 22, 2025
$3165 $2714

Operator discount: -$316

Travel Club discount: -$135

Saturday - Monday

Dec 20, 2025 - Dec 29, 2025
$3165 $3015

Travel Club discount: -$150

Saturday - Monday

Dec 27, 2025 - Jan 05, 2026
$3165 $2714

Operator discount: -$316

Travel Club discount: -$135

Wednesday - Friday

Dec 31, 2025 - Jan 09, 2026
$3285 $2817

Operator discount: -$328

Travel Club discount: -$140

Saturday - Monday

Jan 03, 2026 - Jan 12, 2026
$3285 $2817

Operator discount: -$328

Travel Club discount: -$140

Wednesday - Friday

Jan 07, 2026 - Jan 16, 2026
$3285 $2817

Operator discount: -$328

Travel Club discount: -$140

Wednesday - Friday

Jan 14, 2026 - Jan 23, 2026
$3285 $2817

Operator discount: -$328

Travel Club discount: -$140

Saturday - Monday

Jan 17, 2026 - Jan 26, 2026
$3285 $2817

Operator discount: -$328

Travel Club discount: -$140

Saturday - Monday

Jan 24, 2026 - Feb 02, 2026
$3125 $2813

Operator discount: -$312

Wednesday - Friday

Jan 28, 2026 - Feb 06, 2026
$3125 $2813

Operator discount: -$312

Wednesday - Friday

Feb 04, 2026 - Feb 13, 2026
$3165 $2849

Operator discount: -$316

Saturday - Monday

Feb 07, 2026 - Feb 16, 2026
$3165 $2849

Operator discount: -$316

Saturday - Monday

Feb 14, 2026 - Feb 23, 2026
$3165 $2849

Operator discount: -$316

Wednesday - Friday

Feb 18, 2026 - Feb 27, 2026
$3125 $2813

Operator discount: -$312

Wednesday - Friday

Feb 25, 2026 - Mar 06, 2026
$3285 $2957

Operator discount: -$328

Saturday - Monday

Feb 28, 2026 - Mar 09, 2026
$3285 $2957

Operator discount: -$328

Saturday - Monday

Mar 07, 2026 - Mar 16, 2026
$3125 $2813

Operator discount: -$312

Saturday - Monday

Mar 14, 2026 - Mar 23, 2026
$3125 $2813

Operator discount: -$312

Wednesday - Friday

Mar 18, 2026 - Mar 27, 2026
$3125 $2813

Operator discount: -$312

Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Contiki allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform contiki, 60 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Contiki requires a minimum deposit of 200 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of contiki charges.

    Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 25% of booking price.

    At 21 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.

    At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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