April 8 - 18, 2026 >>> play short video
This essential-level, whistle-stop tour hits Japan’s top destinations — with optional day trips like Kamakura. You'll experience everything from buzzing cityscapes and ancient temples to scenic hot springs and powerful wartime history. With a local Insider guide to show you the ropes and plenty of free time to explore your own interests, this flexible itinerary offers big experiences with zero stress—perfect for solo travelers, friends, or families.
- Take an evening walking tour of Kyoto's Gion geisha district
- Take a boat across Lake Ashi in the shadow of Mount Fuji
- Visit Miyajima island and encounter the local wild deer
- Enjoy okonomiyaki pancakes in Hiroshima
- Hike to the Daibutsu ‘Great Buddha' in Kamakura
- Experience Tokyo old and new with visits to Senso-ji temple and the Harajuku fashion district
Exclusive Group Experience with Flexibility:
Travel with like-minded explorers on this small group tour, guided by an expert Insider tour leader, and make lasting connections as you share in the excitement of each day’s adventures. On an InsideJapan Small Group Tour you can spend as much or as little time with the group as you wish. Want to try Kobe beef? Let your Insider tour leader know and he or she will make a dinner reservation just for you. Interested in Zen gardens? Your Insider tour leader will explain which Kyoto bus you’ll need to hop on to reach Ryoan-ji Temple.
Expertly Guided:
Our experienced local guides ensure you get the most out of your Must-See Japan experience—from exploring Tokyo’s bustling neighborhoods, historic temples, and vibrant food scene, to relaxing in a traditional ryokan, soaking in natural hot springs, and admiring Mt. Fuji from a scenic lake cruise in Hakone. You'll even ride the iconic Shinkansen (bullet train) for a true taste of Japan's modern marvels.
Carefully Curated Itinerary:
Every detail of this tour has been thoughtfully planned to provide a seamless and immersive experience, with plenty of flexibility and time to relax and soak in the beauty of Japan.
Only 8 spaces left!
An essential-level, whistle-stop tour that includes five of Japan’s must-see destinations, offering a mix of old and new, vibrant city life and quieter rural stops, flexibility to do your own thing, and lots of bang for your buck.
Must-see Japan focuses on hitting Japan’s highlights. We’ll visit Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, Hiroshima (including Miyajima), Osaka, and Kamakura (optional daytrip), with plenty of time to break off and pursue your own wish list, too.
Being on a guided route led by one of our Insiders means you don’t have to worry about missing out on the best bits. We’ll take you to top local spots, share first-hand stories of life in Japan, and give you the chance to ask as many questions as you’d like.
It’s a fast-paced tour, blending the vibrant big city life of Tokyo and Osaka with 20th century history in Hiroshima, rural Japan in Hakone, and ancient history and culture in Kyoto.
But though we’ll move fast, we’ve kept inclusions on this tour light so you can do your own thing without worrying about wasting experiences you’ve paid for. You’ll have lots of opportunities to apply your own handbrake and branch out on your own.
With plenty of time in Tokyo, you might take the family to Disneyland, explore the quirky fashion district of Harajuku, or ask your Insider to show you the city’s best yokocho, tiny alleyways packed with food and drinks galore.
Inclusive package with no hidden extras
- Arrival and departure airport transfers by shared shuttle bus
- Full-time services of your InsideJapan tour leader
- 10 nights' accommodation
- Breakfast every day and two evening meals
- Your InsideJapan Info-Pack
- All transport between destinations; Transport passes in Hakone and an IC transport card with 3,000 yen credit for city transport
- Cable car and boat ride across Lake Ashi in Hakone
- Evening walking tour of Kyoto's Gion geisha district
- Explore Osaka's hidden gems on a guided bicycle tour
- Visit to Hiroshima's Peace Park Museum
- Shared portable Wi-Fi access throughout trip
- Luggage forwarding from Tokyo to Kyoto and from Hiroshima to Tokyo
What's NOT included:
- International flights (we can help you find flights if you'd like)
- Any local transport unless covered by the included transport passes
- Any entrance fees (including temples, shrines and museums) unless otherwise specified
- Baggage handling and luggage forwarding unless otherwise specified - you will be expected to carry your own luggage
- Travel protection (medical coverage is required)
Prices are per person; land only
Price: $4172.00 per person
*No single supplement Single travelers will have a single room free of charge at all of the western style hotels (at least 9 nights). They will be asked to share with another single traveler of the same sex at the Japanese style stays (maximum 1 night).
Pre-tour night: Twin: $196.00 per night; Single: $140.00 per night
Post-tour nights: Twin: $224.00 per night; Single: $196.00 per night
Price does not include:
- International airfare***
- Any local transport unless covered by the included transport passes
- Any entrance fees (including temples, shrines and museums) unless otherwise specified
- Baggage handling and luggage forwarding unless otherwise specified - you will be expected to carry your own luggage
- Travel protection (medical coverage is required)
***We can help you with airfare arrangements if needed
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15% Non-Refundable Deposit secures your spot - $626.00 per person
Final Payment due February 1, 2026
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Traveling with family? Under 18's get 10% off the tour price.
Oceans Abound Travel Agency
Hello! I’m Helene Gaither, a dedicated travel agency owner and advisor with three years of experience in crafting unforgettable travel experiences. Specializing in cruise travel, all-inclusive packages, and international adventures, I am passionate about helping clients discover the world’s most beautiful destinations.
What makes me unique is my genuine commitment to understanding and fulfilling your travel dreams. I believe that travel is more than just visiting new places; it’s about creating memories that last a lifetime.
There are many perks and advantages to working with a dedicated travel advisor, such as myself. I create personalized itineraries that cover every detail, from flights and accommodations to activities and special requests. Throughout your trip, I’m just a call or message away, ready to assist with any unexpected issues or last-minute changes. My support doesn’t end when your trip does—I’ll follow up to ensure your satisfaction and help plan your next adventure.
Before embarking on my career in the travel industry, I worked in the social services field. This unique background has equipped me with exceptional interpersonal skills, empathy, and a deep understanding of individual needs, which I now bring to my travel planning services.
My favorite travel destinations include Mexico, the Caribbean, the United States, and Europe, and I love sharing insider tips and hidden gems to make your trip extraordinary. I'm also a cruise enthusiast and will make every effort to go on at least two cruises a year!
I love the travel business because it allows me to combine my passion for exploration with my desire to help others. There's nothing more rewarding than knowing I've played a part in creating joyful and meaningful experiences for my clients. Travel has the power to transform, inspire, and connect us to the world in profound ways, and I am thrilled to facilitate these journeys for you.
As a proud member of ASTA (The American Society of Travel Advisors), CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association), Travel Leaders Network, and the Family Travel Association, I enjoy staying at the forefront of the travel industry by attending trainings, trade shows, networking events and FAM (familiarization) trips, to constantly expand my knowledge in bringing my clients the latest trends, destinations, and insider tips.
Let’s embark on your next adventure together! Japan has always been on my bucket list and I'm excited to experience this fabulous adventure with you!!