Cherry Blossoms | Highlights of Japan

Cherry Blossom Japan

Small group hosted journey • Guaranteed to go • Flights included

17 Days | $23,480 per person share twin | $28,175 Single | Departs 25 Mar 2026

Each spring, Japan’s landscape is host to fragile pink and white sakura blooming; stunning colour that is celebrated throughout the entire country.

Start this journey in bustling Tokyo and see its impressive gardens, go in search of the famous ‘snow monkeys’ and the alpine ‘old town’ of Takayama. On to cultural Kyoto and poignant Hiroshima, ending with spectacular views of Mt Fuji from the top of Mt Owakudani. This unique and incredibly scenic country with enchanting culture, wonderful cuisine and gracious people awaits you.

Your journey at a glance

• Visit some of the best spots for cherry blossom colour

• Enjoy Tokyo’s mix of traditional and modern culture

• Visit the ‘snow monkeys’ in Yudanaka

• Explore Japan’s most atmospheric townscape, Takayama

• See beautiful Buddhist temples, imperial palaces, and the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove in Kyoto

• Visit poignant yet vibrant Hiroshima

• See spectacular views of Mt Fuji, an iconic landmark

• A World Journeys host to guide you every step of the way

Inclusions Small group tour (max. 18) • Economy Class airfares ex Auckland • Fully hosted by experienced World Journeys tour guide • Accommodation in 4-star hotels • Transfers, sightseeing and entrance fees as per the itinerary • Train journeys as per the itinerary • Meals 15 x breakfast, 8 x lunches, 9 x dinners Not Included Items of a personal nature • Travel insurance (mandatory) • Visas (if applicable) • Optional activities Gratuities Tipping is neither required nor expected in Japan

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Highlights of Japan

Tokyo • Nikko • Mt Fuji • Hakone • Ryokan stay • Kyoto • Bullet train • Hiroshima • Osaka

A wonderful introduction to Japan – from the bustle of Tokyo to the majesty of Mt Fuji.

Tranquillity abounds in Hakone where you will experience staying in a traditional Japanese inn (ryokan). In Kyoto explore the historic sites and marvel as you walk through the Sagano Bamboo Grove. To visit Hiroshima is a moving experience as you view this city that has been rebuilt from ashes into one that is prosperous and vibrant.

10 Days | from $11,390 per person share twin

Itinerary

• Day 1: Arrive in Tokyo

  On arrival at Tokyo’s Narita Airport, you will be welcomed by your English speaking assistant. They will transfer you to your hotel by Narita Express rail service and local taxi.

• Day 2: Tokyo | Half Day Tour Options

  This morning you will have a half day tour of Tokyo with your guide using private vehicle. You can start by visiting Meji Shrine Tokyo’s most famous Shinto Shrine. Then continue to the colourful and quirky Harajuku and Omotesando street full of trendy cafes and restaurants. Finish the morning by seeing the Shibuya Crossing, a popular pedestrian crossing and considered one of the busiest in the world. Your afternoon is at leisure.

• Day 3: Tokyo

  Enjoy a full day at leisure in Tokyo visiting its vibrant streets or exploring local restaurants and shopping areas

• Day 4: Tokyo to Hakone

  Today you can prepare a smaller overnight bag for your stay in Hakone, and your main luggage will be sent by overnight transfer to Kyoto. This morning you will be met and for a full day tour to Hakone using private vehicle. On arrival in Hakone, take a ride on the ropeway for spectacular views, see the Owakudani Boiling Valley, and enjoy a cruise on Lake Ashi. At the end of the day, you will be taken to your ryokan for your overnight stay. Enjoy the chance to soak in the hot spring waters that the area is so famous for, and savour an included multi-course dinner.

• Day 5: Hakone to Kyoto

  This morning you will be privately transferred to Mishima Station. Travel by bullet train to Kyoto, where you’ll be met on the platform and transferred to your hotel by local taxi. Your afternoon is at leisure.

• Day 6: Kyoto | Half Day Tour

  This morning you have a half day tour of Kyoto with your guide using private vehicle. Visit the famous Nijo Castle, Kinkakuji temple and Ryoanji temple. Enjoy your afternoon at leisure.

• Day 7: Kyoto | Day at leisure

  Enjoy a full day at leisure in Kyoto, known for its Buddhist temples, beautiful gardens and colourful shrines.

• Day 8: Kyoto to Hiroshima

  Today you can prepare a smaller overnight bag for your stay in Hiroshima, and your main luggage will be sent by overnight transfer to Osaka. This morning make your own way to the station and travel by bullet train to Hiroshima. On arrival you will be welcomed on the platform by your guide, who will take you on a full day tour of Hiroshima and Miyajima using public transport. Hiroshima has rebuilt itself as one of Japan’s most laid back yet vibrant cities full of wide boulevards and art museums, great food and friendly, welcoming people. Visit the Peace Memorial and Museum and A-Bomb Dome in the city, and take a short ferry ride out to Miyajima, a small, wooded island located in the Inland Sea. Here you will find the famous Torii Gate, a shrine known worldwide for being built over water, seemingly floating in the sea.

• Day 9: Hiroshima to Osaka

  Today make your own way to the station and travel by bullet train to Osaka. After making your own way to your hotel for check-in, your time is at leisure to explore the city. Osaka is known for its vibrant streets, modern architecture and historical landmarks.

• Day 10: Osaka

  Today you will be privately transferred to either Kansai or Itami Airport in time for your onward flight, where arrangements conclude.

Itinerary Inclusions

• Tailor-made journey

• 8 nights’ hotel accommodation

• 1 night in a ryokan (Traditional Japanese Inn)

• 9 breakfasts and 1 dinner

• Private transfers as per itinerary

• English-speaking local guides

• Private sightseeing as per itinerary

• Tourist class train Mishima to Kyoto to Hiroshima to Osaka

• Overnight luggage transfers (1 bag per person) Tokyo to Osaka

Not Included

• International airfares

• Travel insurance

NOTE: Pricing is based on travel taking place in low season from December to February and June to mid-September. Please enquire about pricing for your specific dates or for a single travelling alone. Surcharges apply during Golden Week (late April/early May). Tipping is neither requested nor required in Japan

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