Japan Express

All content by Intrepid

9 days (ex Tokyo)

Destinations visited: Japan, Tokyo, World

Physical rating:
Culture shock rating:

Physical Ratings

The physical rating gives you an idea of how much huffing and puffing you can expect on the trip. While generalisations are always tricky, a summary of our ratings follows:

Rating 1

These trips are a relaxing break. You don't have to worry about doing anything physically demanding unless you want to.

Rating 2

Some easy physical activities included in your trip. No physical preparation is required to make the most of the journey.

Rating 3

This trip will raise your heartbeat. Moderate physical activities are included and a good level of fitness is required.

Rating 4

Be prepared for some serious physical activity. The majority of activities included on this trip will be challenging. The fitter you are, the more you will enjoy your holiday.

Rating 5

Intrepid’s highest physical rating. Get ready for a heart-pumping adventure with plenty of challenges and some extreme conditions. You will be required to be seriously fit for this trip as difficult activities are included.

Culture Shock Ratings

The culture shock rating considers the level of development in the location, the area's infrastructure and how easy it is to access services. It also takes into consideration how different the food and customs are and whether English is widely spoken. While generalisations are always tricky, here’s a summary of the ratings:

Rating 1

This is the least confronting of Intrepid's product range. English is the native language and the food, customs and access to services will be familiar to you.

Rating 2

You will probably have experienced food like this in restaurants back home and English is commonly spoken. Services are available most of the time but there may be some cultural differences.

Rating 3

Expect some culture shock. You will be exposed to signs of poverty and access to services may be sporadic. The food will be quite different to home and English speakers harder to find. Respecting the local culture will make it easier to fit in and really experience the location.

Rating 4

The comforts of home are more of a rarity. English is not common and the food will be quite different to what you are used to. It is important to observe some of the local customs to not cause offence. Many of the locals' standard of living may be confronting.

Rating 5

You're really out there! You'll need to pay specific attention to health and hygiene. A large proportion of locals' living conditions are a world away from standards you are used to. You may have difficulty finding an English speaker and there is little or no access to services. Paying heed to local customs is essential.

from USD$2,330

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Description

Home to sumo wrestling, sake, geishas, karaoke and traditional onsens, Japan is an extraordinary land. On this tour you can expect a frenetic pace one day and a tranquil experience the next. Take in the neon nightlife of Tokyo, relax in the manicured gardens of Nikko and discover thousands of years of culture and history in Hakone and Kyoto. From world-class sushi to legendary samurai, this enigmatic nation is a traveller's delight. Get back to basics and see the best of Japan without busting your budget.

Highlights

Shed your clothes (and inhibitions) in a traditional Japanese onsen.
Experience ancient traditions in Kyoto.
Travel by train through pristine countryside.
Visit the restorative Hakone hot springs.
Shop up a storm in Tokyo.
See the shrines and temples of Nikko.
Boat on Hakone's peaceful lake.

Itinerary

Days 1-2 Tokyo

From imperial gardens to towering skyscrapers, the attractions are endless in frenetic Tokyo city. Enjoy free time to visit the world's biggest fish market, hit the shops in Shibuya or discover traditional Tokyo in Asakusa. In free time, Ueno Park with its many galleries and museums is a great place to visit, the Sensoji Temple is a serene way to pass an afternoon, and the sumo stables are a must-see.

Days 3-4 Nikko

Travel on a scenic train ride from Tokyo to Nikko and get the chance to soak up the spectacular countryside that makes Japan such a unique holiday destination. Stroll through forests of towering cedars that conceal splendid shrines and temples, remnants of the wealth and power of a warlord whose family ruled Japan for almost three centuries. A visit to Toshogu Shrine in particular is highly recommended while in Nikko.

Days 5-6 Hakone

Jump aboard another train to the hot spring region of Hakone. This panoramic mountainous area has some great walks, including the old Tokaido Highway. Hit the waters of Lake Ashino-ko on a boat ride and view breathtaking scenery on a cable car ride. Feeling brave? Why not take a refreshing bath in an outdoor onsen (sans clothing).

Days 7-9 Kyoto

Enjoy a ride on the bullet train to Kyoto. Featuring over 2,000 temples, shrines and gardens, Kyoto has a picture-postcard vista around every corner. Travel out to Gion, the famous geisha district, to observe the traditional teahouses and to catch a glimpse of its elusive kimono-clad residents. Perhaps end the adventure with a quintessential Japanese experience - a night out at a karaoke bar!

Group Size

Maximum of 12 travellers per group

Accommodation

Ryokan (6 nts), Guesthouse (2 nts)

Transport

Train (bullet), Bus, Train, Metro

Budget

Allow USD $250 for meals not included.

Check dates and prices
Book this trip with Intrepid Travel on their site

from USD$2,330

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