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Backpacking Japan: Essentials

From Tokyo’s neon buzz to Kyoto’s hidden temples, this Japan adventure blends iconic sights with local secrets. You’ll discover ancient traditions and futuristic thrills, sample incredible food, explore spiritual temples, and dive into local culture without breaking the bank. This is the ultimate way to experience Japan with a group of new friends, expert guidance, and time to explore your own way.

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  • 9 Meals (Vegetarian Options)
  • All Accommodation
  • All In-Country Transport
  • Local English-Speaking Guides
  • International Flights
  • Travel Insurance
  • Airport Transfers

Quite an experience to see such a big difference in culture. Also our guide Sherry did her very best to help everyone and to make sure everyone had a good time. Every morning she is waiting with a smile until the group is complete. Thanks again!

Carlo, 9 May 2025
Rated 5/5 by 570 Travellers on Facebook

Backpacking Japan: Essentials

£1899 from
Pay £250 deposit
  • Length13 Days
  • Avg. Age18-39
  • No. Of Activities20
  • No. Of Meals9
  • Avg. Group Size6-20
  • Starting PointTokyo
  • Ending PointHiroshima

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Map

Tour Itinerary

Senso-ji Temple in Tokyo, beautifully illuminated at night with vibrant red buildings and glowing lanterns.
People enjoy food and drinks at small eateries in a lively, lantern-lit Tokyo alleyway at night.
Visitors explore the beautifully illuminated Senso-ji Temple and five-story pagoda in Tokyo at night.
A group of happy travelers pose at night in front of Tokyo's illuminated Senso-ji Temple gate.
A bright and clean hostel room in Tokyo with a wooden bunk bed and privacy curtains.
DAY 1

Welcome to Japan!

Your adventure kicks off in Tokyo’s historic Asakusa district. After settling into your hostel, meet your guide and fellow travellers over a welcome feast packed with local flavours. As the sun sets, we’ll wander to the Senso-ji Temple, beautifully illuminated at night. It’s the perfect intro to Japan’s blend of tradition and modern magic.

  • Meals IncludedDinner
  • Room TypeHostel
  • Activities IncludedWelcome Dinner, Senso-Ji Temple
A vibrant street scene in Tokyo's Akihabara district, bustling with people and colorful neon signs.
Five joyful friends jump high on a stone path at a traditional Japanese shrine in Tokyo.
A large wooden torii gate stands tall, surrounded by dense green forest at Meiji Shrine in Tokyo.
A brightly lit, clean counter area of a small Japanese cafe with menus on the wall.
Bright yellow bunk beds with privacy curtains in a clean Tokyo hostel dorm room.
DAY 2

Tokyo Day Tour

Start the day with a Japan Orientation session, learning helpful phrases and customs. Then we hit Harajuku for street fashion and quirky culture, followed by the peaceful Meiji Shrine in Yoyogi Park. In the afternoon, neon lights take over as we explore Akihabara, the anime and gaming capital. Whether it’s maid cafés or go-karting in costume, this is Tokyo at its most electric.

  • Meals IncludedBreakfast
  • Room TypeHostel
  • Activities IncludedJapan Orientation, Harajuku, Meiji Shrine, Akihabara
Hundreds of pedestrians navigate the famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing in vibrant Tokyo.
Bright yellow bunk beds with privacy curtains in a clean Tokyo hostel dorm room.
DAY 3

Shibuya Adventures

Enjoy a free morning in Tokyo to discover your own slice of the city, maybe sushi-making, a stroll through Ueno Park or a visit to the futuristic TeamLab. In the evening, we explore Shinjuku, visit Omoide Yokocho Alley for yakitori, and wrap up the night watching the iconic Shibuya crossing from above.

  • Meals IncludedBreakfast
  • Room TypeHostel
  • Activities IncludedShibuya Crossing, City walks
Three happy backpackers smiling with snow-capped Mount Fuji and mountains in Hakone, Japan.
A white Shinkansen bullet train travels past the iconic, snow-capped Mount Fuji under a clear blue sky.
Six happy backpackers pose on a mountain overlooking the sprawling city of Hakone, Japan.
A person stands at a red torii gate, looking over a calm lake and forested island in Hakone.
A traditional Japanese boat with passengers glides along a calm river surrounded by green mountains.
Blooming cherry blossoms line a quiet street in Hakone, Japan, on a sunny spring day.
Cosy traditional Japanese guesthouse room in Hakone with two futon beds on tatami mats.
DAY 4

Fuji Views & Mountain Life

Hop aboard the Romance Car bound for Hakone, a mountain town famed for hot springs and Fuji views. After checking into our cosy tatami guesthouse, we head deeper into the mountains for scenic walks and photo ops of Mt Fuji (weather depending). In the evening, we enjoy a traditional family-style dinner back at the guesthouse.

  • Meals IncludedBreakfast, Dinner
  • Room TypeHotel
  • Activities IncludedMt Fuji Viewing
Two people in kimonos walk down a traditional street towards a pagoda at sunset in Kyoto.
A bright red modern train with panoramic windows at a station platform in Kyoto, Japan.
Six happy women in colorful kimonos pose on a traditional lantern-lit street in Kyoto.
Modern wooden sleeping pods with comfortable bedding in a clean hostel room in Kyoto.
DAY 5

Gion Geisha Walk

Say farewell to the mountains and board a bullet train to Kyoto, Japan’s cultural heart. After arriving and settling into our central hostel, we set out to explore Gion, home to lantern-lit alleyways and the iconic Geisha tradition. Dinner tonight is at a local favourite yakitori spot.

  • Meals IncludedDinner
  • Room TypeHostel
  • Activities IncludedGion District Walking Tour
Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Kyoto, bathed in warm sunset light, surrounded by vibrant autumn foliage.
A person explores the iconic bright orange torii gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto.
Kiyomizu-dera Temple's pagoda and buildings overlook the city of Kyoto and hazy mountains.
Modern wooden sleeping pods with comfortable bedding in a clean hostel room in Kyoto.
DAY 6

Fushimi-Inari & Temple Trails

We’re up early to explore Fushimi Inari Shrine’s iconic red torii gates without the crowds. Then it’s on to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, perched above the city with incredible views. The afternoon is yours to dive deeper, maybe a kimono rental, traditional tea ceremony, or a walk through Nishiki Market.

  • Room TypeHostel
  • Activities IncludedKiyomizu-Dera, Fushimi-Inari Shrine
A joyful group of friends posing playfully in the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest in Kyoto.
Visitors stroll along a path surrounded by the tall, green bamboo forest in Kyoto.
Clean wooden sleeping pods in a modern Japanese hostel, offering comfortable and private accommodation.
DAY 7

Bamboo Forest & Monkey Mountain

Today we take a scenic trip to Arashiyama. Wander through the whispering Bamboo Forest and hike Monkey Mountain for a view over Kyoto. Optional extras include a peaceful riverboat cruise or a visit to the Samurai and Ninja Museum. The rest of the day is yours to explore this charming riverside town.

  • Room TypeHostel
  • Activities IncludedArashiyama Bamboo Forest, Monkey Mountain
The iconic Golden Pavilion in Kyoto, shimmering gold, reflected in the calm water of its garden.
Happy young travelers pose for a group photo at night amidst bright neon signs in Osaka.
The iconic golden pavilion stands majestically by a serene lake, surrounded by green trees in Kyoto.
A group of eight happy travelers pose in front of Kyoto's Golden Pavilion and its tranquil pond.
Backpackers relaxing and sharing stories in a comfortable hostel room after a day exploring Osaka.
DAY 8

Golden Pavilion & Osaka Street Eats

We start with Kyoto’s famous Golden Pavilion and the tranquil Zen gardens of Daitoku-ji. In the afternoon, we journey to Osaka, Japan’s street food capital. Your guide leads you through the buzzing Dotonbori district to sample takoyaki, okonomiyaki and more. The night ends with karaoke and drinks in true Osaka style.

  • Meals IncludedDinner
  • Room TypeHostel
  • Activities IncludedGolden Pavilion, Zen Garden, Osaka Food Tour, Karaoke
Joyful backpackers balance on bollards and jump playfully in front of a grand Japanese temple in Osaka.
Osaka Castle framed by beautiful pink cherry blossoms against a clear blue sky.
Backpackers relaxing and sharing stories in a comfortable hostel room after a day exploring Osaka.
DAY 9

Osaka Castle Gardens

Spend the morning exploring Osaka your way, maybe Spa World, the Ramen Museum or AmericaTown. In the afternoon, we visit Osaka Castle Gardens, then head to the nostalgic Shinsekai district for local eats and a colourful street scene. It’s a perfect balance of history and fun.

  • Meals IncludedBreakfast
  • Room TypeHostel
  • Activities IncludedOsaka Castle Gardens, Shinsekai Tour
A woman in a brown coat gently feeds a deer under vibrant autumn leaves in Nara Park.
Backpackers relaxing and sharing stories in a comfortable hostel room after a day exploring Osaka.
Smiling woman relaxing on a hostel bunk bed, reading a book in Osaka.
DAY 10

Nara Park & Osaka Nightlife

We take a short train ride to Nara, a peaceful city filled with friendly roaming deer and ancient temples. Walk through the park, visit Todai-ji Temple, and soak up the serene vibes before returning to Osaka to explore more of its vibrant districts or opt for TeamLab Osaka.

  • Meals IncludedBreakfast
  • Activities IncludedNara Park, Temples
A solemn view of the Cenotaph and Atomic Bomb Dome in Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park.
A clean, modern hostel room in Hiroshima with bunk beds, a ladder, and a small sink area.
DAY 11

Hiroshima Reflections

A slower morning before we hop the train to Hiroshima. In the afternoon, a local guide walks us through the Peace Memorial Park, telling the stories behind the Atomic Dome and eternal flame. A moving and important experience that brings deeper meaning to your journey.

  • Room TypeHostel
  • Activities IncludedHiroshima Peace Memorial
A small boat with people approaches the iconic floating torii gate at Miyajima Island.
Serene view of the iconic floating torii gate at Miyajima Island, framed by vibrant red shrine structures.
The iconic orange torii gate of Miyajima Island stands in the sea, surrounded by structures.
A clean, modern hostel room in Hiroshima with bunk beds, a ladder, and a small sink area.
DAY 12

Miyajima Island & Coastal Serenity

Today we ferry over to Miyajima Island, home of the floating torii gate. Wander peaceful paths to shrines and temples, spot deer in the wild, and explore the Hall of 1,000 Mats. Optional traditional archery is available, or just soak in the coastal serenity. We return for a final group dinner and night out.

  • Room TypeHostel
  • Activities IncludedMiyajima Island, Itsukushima Shrine, Hall of 1,000 Mats
A happy group of travelers poses in front of a traditional Japanese temple in Hiroshima with cherry blossoms.
The Hiroshima Peace Memorial stands by a river at dusk, surrounded by autumn trees and city lights.
DAY 13

Until Next Time, Japan

It’s time to say goodbye to your travel crew and an unforgettable trip. Whether you’re heading home or continuing your adventures, we’ll make sure you’ve got the support you need. Until next time.

    Tour Dates

    Optional Extras

    £80

    Pre-Tour Accommodation in Tokyo

    Pre nights in Tokyo at Sakura House. Rate is per room (single, twin or double) - PRE NIGHT ONLY (Max 1 night)

    Add to your tour
    £175

    Bullet Train to Tokyo

    Return to Tokyo from Hiroshima on the bullet train. The train runs every hour from 5 am. The tour guide will ask you what time you would like to take the train during the tour. It's available

    Add to your tour
    £90

    Sushi Making Class

    Day 3 - Learn the secrets of making the most authentic sushi and other Japanese dishes in this cooking class

    Add to your tour
    £50

    Tea Ceremony (Shared Tea Ceremony)

    Day 6 - Learn the history behind Tea Ceremonies and learn to make a proper Matcha. Take part in a traditional tea ceremony with a Japanese tea master.

    Add to your tour
    £50

    Tea Ceremony & Kimono Rental: (Shared Tea Ceremony)

    Day 6 - Learn the history behind Tea Ceremonies and learn to make a proper Matcha. Take part in a traditional tea ceremony with a Japanese tea master whilst wearing a tradional Kimono.

    Add to your tour
    £70

    Samurai & Ninja Museum Experience

    Day 7 - Visit the famous Samurai and Ninja Museum in Kyoto and take part in a real samurai sword experience.

    Add to your tour
    £25

    TeamLab Botanical Garden Osaka

    Day 10 - Immerse yourself in an exhibition at an outdoor night museum featuring a collection of artworks that use the plants, lake, and the ecosystems and environment of Nagai Botanical Garde

    Add to your tour
    £50

    Osaka Backstreet Tour

    Day 9: Osaka Backstreet Tour

    Add to your tour
    £35

    Traditional Archery Experience

    Day 12: Traditional Archery Experience

    Add to your tour

    All This Included & More!

    • Welcome Dinner
    • Visit to Senso-ji Temple at night
    • Japan Orientation
    • Famous Tokyo Districts
    • Shibuya Crossing
    • Mt Fuji viewing
    • Exploring Hakone
    • Fushimi-Inari Red Torii Gates
    • Kiyomizu-Dera Temple
    • The Golden Pavilion in Kyoto
    • Climb Monkey Mountain (Iwatayama)
    • The Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
    • Food tour in Osaka
    • Karaoke
    • Osaka Castle Gardens
    • Shinsekai Tour
    • Explore Nara Park & Temples
    • Hiroshima Peace Memorial Guided Tour
    • Miyajima Island
    • Itsukushima Shrine
    • Hall of 1,000 Mats

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