Last Updated on July 12, 2024 by Lohanna Reis

13 great and different guided tours around Japan. Tours with a variety of prices, days, destinations, themes, age, luxury level, and adventure.

Japan is a fascinating country that attracts millions of tourists every year. With a rich history, vibrant culture, stunning landscapes and impressive technological advances, the country offers a unique experience for visitors.

One of Japan’s main tourist attractions is its capital, Tokyo. The metropolis is a mix of tradition and modernity, with gleaming skyscrapers and ancient temples side by side. Another must-see city is Kyoto, which is home to numerous temples, shrines and traditional gardens. Furthermore, Kyoto is known for its geisha and tea ceremony, offering tourists a unique insight into Japanese culture.

 

 

For nature lovers, Japan offers breathtaking landscapes such as Mount Fuji, the highest peak in the country. During spring, the fields of cherry blossoms enchant visitors with their soft colors.

Japanese cuisine is also an attraction in itself. From fresh sushi and sashimi to delicious ramen dishes and crispy tempuras, visitors have a wide variety of options to try. Japan is also famous for its teahouses, where tourists can taste authentic Japanese green tea and try traditional sweets.

 

 

Pros of traveling on a group tour	Pros of traveling on your own
Company and opportunity to meet people with similar interests	Flexibility to create your own itinerary and choose activities
Peaceful and fun group experience	Autonomy to follow your own schedule
More safety when riding in a group, especially with an experienced local guide	Freedom to explore Iceland without having to stick to a schedule
Less need for planning and research as the tour already provides accommodation, transport and activities	Potential savings, since depending on the choices it can be cheaper
Possibility of access to places or activities that may be difficult or impossible to reach alone	Greater challenge and opportunity to learn and grow with the experience of planning and conducting your own trip

 

 

13 Best Tours and Itineraries to Explore Japan

Best Japan Tours and Itineraries for Guided Small Group Adventures

 

   1. G Adventures – Japan Express: Osaka to Tokyo (9 Days)

From the Buddhist monks of Kōyasan to the top players of Tokyo, experience the many faces of Japan on this comprehensive tour starting in Osaka.

Indulge in the region’s culinary delicacies and enjoy the beautiful views of Mount Fuji. You’ll stay at a temple in the mountains and immerse yourself in local culture at the onsen hot springs. A great blend of the traditional and the contemporary, this adventure provides a taste of Japan’s rich culture.

 

 

   2. G Adventures – Iconic Japan (12 Days)

In Japan, tradition and modernity are celebrated side by side in ways that often seem contradictory. Immerse yourself in this intriguing culture, starting in vast Tokyo, one of the most innovative cities in the world.

Then take the train inland to visit traditional villages and peaceful shrines. Explore charming geisha districts and awe-inspiring gardens; indulge in the fresh flavors of Japanese cuisine; and get a glimpse into the ancient soul of this fascinating and futuristic country.

 

 

   3. Intrepid – Japan: The Land of the Rising Sun (13 Days)

This 13-day tour of Japan will introduce you to the cultures – ancient and modern – that define this small but influential archipelago. Starting in the tech mecca of Tokyo and ending with three nights in Kyoto, this immersive tour will also take you to lesser-known cities across central and southern Japan.

Discover the scenic beauty on the Hakone Ropeway, enjoy the best sake in Takayama, experience the Hiroshima of today and admire Miyajima’s floating torii gate. You’ll have a local guide to accompany you to these lesser-known destinations and reveal layers of culture and history, plus an included Japan Rail Pass to move stylishly and comfortably from A to B.

 

 

   4. Intrepid – Japan Highlights (8 Days) 

Land of sumo, geisha, sake, karaoke, onsen and izakaya – Japan is a veritable feast for all your senses. This 8-day journey hits all the right spots, providing a true appreciation for the land of the rising sun.

Soak up the hustle and bustle of Tokyo before heading inland for a stay at a farm with local tea pickers and a leisurely hike with spectacular views of Mount Fuji. Travel by futuristic bullet train to Kyoto and delve into history before ending your adventure in the foodie paradise of Osaka.

 

 

Best Japan Tours and Itineraries for Groups of Young Singles (18-35 Years Old)

 

   5. Contiki – Japan Unrivalled (13 Days) 

Experience traditional Japanese hot springs in Hakone, explore Kyoto, the cultural hub of Japan by visiting Fushimi Inari Shrine, and wander through Tokyo soaking up all the bright lights and quirks, as well as enjoying as much sushi as possible.

 

 

   6. Contiki – Japan in One Week (8 Days)

Beginning in the orchestra of light, sound and history that is Tokyo, with guided tours of temples and palaces, before taking the bullet train to Kyoto. There, the tour walks through Zen gardens, explores mystical temples and sees geishas, before taking the short journey to Osaka, where you’ll stop by Universal Studios or simply enjoy the local street food.

 

 

   7. Topdeck – Delve Deep: Japan (12 Days)

In less than two weeks, the tour offers Japan’s highlights and hidden gems. Culture and madness. The ultra-modern and the historic. Landscape and cities. And all the ramen, okonomiyaki, udon, katsu, yakitori and sake your baggy pants can handle.

 

 

 

Best Luxury and Comfort Japan Tours and Itineraries for Small Groups with Guides

 

   8. Trafalgar – Splendours of Japan (9 Days) 

At Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto, climb the extraordinary path surrounded by hundreds of orange torii gates that wind through the forest to the mountains above the city. Feast on a delicious kaiseki lunch at a traditional ryokan and gain insight into Japanese traditions.

 

 

   9. Trafalgar – Classic Japan (11 Days)

A tale of four iconic cities and two ancient capitals – your epic journey through Japan blends old and new, with exciting visits to historic centers and modern cities.

 

 

   10. Tourradar – Essential Japan (17 Days) 

Start in Tokyo and end in Osaka! With the tour you will have a 17-day tour package that will take you through Tokyo, Japan, and 13 other destinations in the country. The tour includes meals, transportation and more.

 

 

 

 

Tourradar’s Best Japan Tours (Best site to search and compare Japan tours of different lengths, styles, prices, and operators)

 

   11. Tourradar – Japan Discovered (14 Days)

Start and end in Tokyo! With this tour you will have a 14-day package that will take you to Tokyo, and 9 other destinations in Japan. The tour includes hotel accommodation, plus an expert guide, meals, transport, and more.

 

 

   12. Tourradar – West Japan (9 Days)

Start in Fukuoka and end in Osaka! On this tour you will have a 9 days package that will take you to Fukuoka and 9 other destinations in Japan. Includes hotel accommodation, plus an expert guide, insurance, meals, transportation and more.

 

 

   13. Tourradar – Budget Japan Tour (13 Days)

Start and end in Tokyo! With this tour you will have a 13-day package that will take you to Tokyo and 6 other destinations in Japan. The tour includes hotel and hostel accommodation, plus an expert guide, transportation, and more.

 

 

 

Concluding…

Japan is an absolutely incredible destination for those looking to experience cultural, historical and adventure-filled experiences. With a wide range of tour and excursion options available, it is imperative to conduct thorough research before choosing the company that best fits your needs and expectations.

Check the reviews of other travelers and the details of the accommodations offered. These aspects are crucial to ensure a smooth and safe trip.

Regardless of the company selected, one thing is certain: visiting Japan is a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience! So be prepared to embark on an unforgettable journey and allow yourself to immerse yourself in this adventure across the country.

 

Planning your next trip?

Then don’t forget travel insurance! You don’t want to get stuck paying a ton of money and ruining your trip if you get sick or have an accident without travel insurance. Our page with The 3 Best and Cheapest Travel Insurance on the Market can help you choose the right plan and will give you some discount coupons for the biggest insurance companies!

 

 Already reserved your hotel or hostel? If not, our article with The 6 Best and Cheapest Websites to Find & Reserve Accommodation can help you out. You’ll also find some promotions and discount codes.

 

 Still haven’t booked your plane ticket and want to save big? Take a look at our page with 16 Tips to Save on Flights where you’ll also find the 4 best websites to buy your plane tickets. 

 

And finally, will you need to rent a car during your trip? Then surely our page with The 5 Best and Cheapest Websites to Compare and Rent Cars Around the World will help you choose the best rental car and find a good deal.