Go off the path in southern Japan through steaming onsens and volcano panoramas
- Start
- Osaka, Japan
- End
- Osaka, Japan
- Destinations
- Japan
- Meals
- 2 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners
- Transport
- Train, Ferry, Public Bus, Private bus, Metro, Bullet Train
- Accommodation
- Hotel (9 nights), Homestay (1 night), Japanese Inn (1 night)
- Days
- 12
- Group size
- Min 1 - Max 12
- Ages
- Min 15
- ThemeEvery trip caters to specific interests and activities, such as wildlife or family.
- Explorer, Rail
- StyleBasix: Simple accommodation, local transport and lots of free time
Orginal: Tourist-class hotels, some meals included and a great mix of included activities and free time
Comfort: Comfortable accommodation, with a relaxed pace of travel and many included meals and activities
Premium: 4+ star accommodation, exclusive premium inclusions, our most experienced leaders - Original
- Physical ratingIndicates how physically exerting a trip is, and how fit you will need to be to enjoy it. More info on physical ratings
Why you'll love this trip
Explore the unique island of Naoshima – transformed from a sleepy fishing community into a world-class art destination, with sleek and stylish museums and artworks that harmonise with the landscape.
Stay in a countryside homestay, taking you off the beaten track to experience excellent Japanese hospitality. Feast on home-cooked meals over fascinating conversations with your welcoming hosts and learn about rural life in Japan.
Watch the steam coming out of the ‘hells’ (hot spring pools in Jigoku) of Beppu. Enjoy a local lunch, cooked in the unique local way – you’ll steam your food in the hot spring water, creating authentic flavours rich with healthy minerals! And followed by a relaxing soak in the local onsen if you wish!
Take in the stunning view of the five peaks of Mount Aso from the Daikanbo Observatory, then a light hike on the moon-like terrain to the largest crater of Nakadake.
Expect the unexpected in Nagasaki, tragically famous for being one of the only two cities that were bombed during the war. Discover the unique charm of this port-side Dutch influenced city and all the history it has collected over the years.
View the itinerary for departures between 01 January 2024 - 31 December 2024
Itinerary
Inclusions and activities
2 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners
Train, Ferry, Public Bus, Private bus, Metro, Bullet Train
Hotel (9 nights), Homestay (1 night), Japanese Inn (1 night)
Is this trip right for you?
- Japan is best explored on foot and by public transport. You’ll need to be fit enough to spend most of each day on your feet and able to handle your luggage as you navigate busy train stations. We recommend comfortable shoes and packing light.
- On this trip, you’ll stay in a homestay and a traditional Japanese inn. It’s a great taste of tradition and local life and you’ll sleep on the traditional tatami floor (futons and blankets on the floor mat), just like the locals do! The facilities here will be shared.
- This trip is part of a longer itinerary. You might be joining travellers who have already spent some time together. If you have more time to explore, you might like to check out Ultimate Japan.
- Double rooms in Japanese hotels can be smaller than you may be used to (e.g. 20 sqm). Every effort will be made to accommodate double room requests. However, during busy periods, there may be occasions when we are unable to offer a double room, so a twin room will be provided.
Dates and availability
Important notes
1. We are currently unable to offer a single supplement, airport transfers or additional accommodation in Japan due to limited availability.
2. It is essential that you pack light and compact for rail travel in Japan. Luggage size restrictions apply. Please review the ‘Packing’ section of the Essential Trip Information for more details.
Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.
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