Japan Express
- Tour Operator:
- Intrepid Travel
- Max group size:
- 16
- Age range:
- 15 to 99
- Operated in:
- English
- Tour id:
- 1633
Places You’ll See
Highlights
- Discover the vibrant Tokyo and go sightseeing in Kyoto
- Travel to Nikko by train and enjoy the spectacular views
- Visit Toshu-gu Shrine or go hiking in the area of Nikko
- Take a photo of Fushimi Inari Taisha and see Nijo Castle
- Taste some traditional sushi, sake and other local food
Itinerary
- Introduction
- Day 1 Tokyo
- Day 2 Tokyo
- Day 3 Tokyo
- Day 4 Nikko
- Day 5 Nikko
- Day 6 Kyoto
- Day 7 Kyoto
- Day 8 Kyoto
- Day 9 Kyoto
What's Included
- Accommodation
- Guide
- Additional Services
- Transport
- Flights
- Insurance
- Meals
- Optional
- Additional Services
Where You'll Stay
Customer Photos
Operated by Intrepid Travel
Back in 1989, two guys from Melbourne, Australia by the names of Darrell and Manch set off on an adventure to the other side of the world. They travelled to Africa and without air conditioning on their modified truck, they filled it with supplies, some beer, a bunch of aviator sunglasses, and some friends. On that trip, they came up with the idea that perhaps others may be interested in this style of travel too. Just like that, Intrepid was born. Intrepid has come a long way since then, now giving over 100,000 travelers a year the opportunity to experience small group travel across all 7 continents. They use local transport, sleep in local accommodation from Cambodian stilt houses to Moroccan riads, and employ 100% local leaders. With three different travel styles including basix, original and comfort, themes ranging from cycling trips to family holidays, and itineraries crafted with the perfect balance of must-see sights and free time, Intrepid caters to every type of traveller no matter their age, budget or travel style. The company has grown but their mission remains the same: to change the way people see the world through sustainable, experience-rich travel
Read moreSustainability Initiatives
Reduce Carbon Emissions
Animal Welfare
Supporting Destinations
Sustainability Programs
Customer Reviews
- Overall RatingExcellent
- ItineraryExcellent
- GuideExcellent
- TransportExcellent
- AccommodationGood
- FoodGood
- ABradley C.· August 3rd, 2023We had an amazing time on our trip to Japan thanks to our amazing group leader. Highly recommend this tour as it gives you time to explore on your own and guided days too.
Intrepid Travel commented on this reviewWe are so excited to read your positive comments! Thank you so much for taking the time to share them with us. We can't wait to welcome you back on your next adventure!Trip date: June 2023Review collected by Intrepid Travel - AAnne B.· August 3rd, 2023This was a great introductory trip for someone who enjoys some independence but also wants some guidance navigating a new culture. I am so glad I joined this tour! I thoroughly enjoyed the leader, the group of people I went with, and the places we... Show moreIntrepid Travel commented on this reviewHi there! Thank you for sharing your experiencing and posting this wonderful review and recommendation. It’s great to know how much you enjoyed your experience and that your leader did such a great job. Also, that were able to experience the amazing... Show moreTrip date: June 2023Review collected by Intrepid Travel
- AKatie B.· August 3rd, 2023This trip was incredible! Even with some very hot and cold weather, and rain. You get to see so much of the different aspects of Japan. From big cities to forests and mountains. There is plenty of opportunity for exploring on your own as well as... Show moreIntrepid Travel commented on this reviewThank you so much for taking the time to share your comments with us. It is fantastic to learn that you had a wonderful experience in Japan, and that our tour offered you the most organized adventure and the best tour leader. We can't wait to welcome... Show moreTrip date: July 2023Review collected by Intrepid Travel
- AMarvin K.· July 26th, 2023This tour is absolutely worth the money and offers one hell of an insight into a magnificent country. I doubt I could have felt more fulfilled with how much I was able to learn and view in such a short amount of time. This has my whole hearted... Show moreIntrepid Travel commented on this reviewThank you for sharing your experience and for your recommendation. It's wonderful to know that you left your trip feeling fulfilled and that you were able to learn and view so much in this short time. We hope you will find another of our itineraries to... Show moreTrip date: June 2023Review collected by Intrepid Travel
- AHarald Peter K.· July 26th, 2023Japan Express is an extraordinary journey that takes you from turbulent Tokyo to the hot springs and impressive monuments of Nikko, right into the heart of Japanese culture and history in Kyoto. Led by knowledgeable, experienced and extremely warm tour... Show moreIntrepid Travel commented on this reviewThank you for taking the time to share your experience. It's great to know you enjoyed your time in this wonderful part of the word. That that you appreciated the country, culture, nature and the people. We hope to see you on another of our adventures... Show moreTrip date: June 2023Review collected by Intrepid Travel
Dayna· July 21st, 2023Toshimi was a great guide! Very knowledgeable and friendly. The only thing I’d change is I wouldn’t have gone in the summer. Much too hot. Otherwise we had a fabulous time!Intrepid Travel commented on this reviewThank you for your review. Its great to know Toshimi was a great guide and although you found the summer heat to much, you still have a fabulous time. We hope to welcome you on another adventure soon!Trip date: June 2023- APeter C.· July 17th, 2023Intrepid’s “Japan Express” is a great way to see Japan in a short time. Our guide was exceptional. The itinerary was very well designed.Intrepid Travel commented on this reviewThank you for your feedback. It great yo know you had a wonderful time, it was a great way to experience Japan and that you trip leader was exceptional. We hope you find another itinerary to your linking and that we can welcome you on another Intrepid... Show moreTrip date: June 2023Review collected by Intrepid Travel
- AMalia M.· July 17th, 2023I had an amazing time. This was my first time in Japan and so I am grateful that I planned the trip through Intrepid. I was able to focus on the experience and not the confusion of hotel accommodations and travel both within and between each city. I'm... Show moreIntrepid Travel commented on this reviewThank you for your review constructive review and kind world. Its wonderful to know that you had such a great trip and that you would recommend Intrepid to other travellers. We hope to welcome you on another of our adventures soon.Trip date: June 2023Review collected by Intrepid Travel
- JSJon· June 11th, 2023A good intro to Japan. Short daily orientation and tours leaving most afternoons and evenings (if one so desired) to one’s own devices. Good hotels most nights, w some authentic or western (mixed options) lodgings w onsen. Most transport needs were... Show moreIntrepid Travel commented on this reviewHi Jon, Thank you for taking the time out to leave a review of your trip! Japan has been an extremely popular destination post-pandemic and I'm glad to hear that your trip lived up to your expectations. Hoping to see you on another Intrepid trip... Show moreTrip date: May 2023
- JLJonathan· April 12th, 2023Very overpriced tour with extremely basic accommodation. No transportation nor meals were provided. I would definitely not pick this tour again in the future given its high price and undervalued compared to other tours.Intrepid Travel commented on this reviewHello Jonathan, Thank you for taking the time to share your comments with us. We were disappointed to read that the Japan Express - Basix trip did not meet your expectations. Please feel free to contact our Customer Care team who will be happy to... Show moreTrip date: April 2023
Dates & Availability
Book With Flexibility
You're not locked in! Make changes to your dates or switch tours. Learn More
Pay-by-instalments
Take advantage of our 0% interest instalment plan on selected departures. Learn More
- On RequestSaturday7 Oct, 2023Sunday15 Oct, 2023English$2,785
- On RequestSaturday21 Oct, 2023Sunday29 Oct, 2023English$3,130
- Get Instant ConfirmationSaturday4 Nov, 2023Sunday12 Nov, 2023English$3,010Book With Flexibility
- -25%Get Instant ConfirmationSaturday11 Nov, 2023Sunday19 Nov, 2023English$2,530$1,898Book With Flexibility
- Get Instant ConfirmationSaturday25 Nov, 2023Sunday3 Dec, 2023English$2,605Book With Flexibility
- Get Instant ConfirmationSaturday9 Dec, 2023Sunday17 Dec, 2023English$2,580Book With Flexibility
- Get Instant ConfirmationSaturday17 Feb, 2024Sunday25 Feb, 2024English$2,7650% Interest Instalments
- Get Instant ConfirmationSaturday16 Mar, 2024Sunday24 Mar, 2024English$3,1450% Interest Instalments
- Get Instant ConfirmationSaturday23 Mar, 2024Sunday31 Mar, 2024English$3,1450% Interest Instalments
- Get Instant ConfirmationWednesday27 Mar, 2024Thursday4 Apr, 2024English$2,8350% Interest Instalments
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is there a hotel list available?
The tour operator has advised that they do not have a hotel list available for this tour, as all accommodations are subject to change until 4-6 weeks before the departure date. After the booking is made you will be issued your final trip documents with your specific accommodation details. Two examples of hotels that they generally stay at on this tour are Seibido Inn and Sakura Ryokan - hopefully, this can give you an idea of the kind of accommodation you can expect on tour.
- When and where does the tour end?
It's time to say farewell to your Travel Director and new-found friends as your memorable holiday comes to an end. Check-out from Seibido Inn in Kyoto is at 10 am, however, if you are departing later, you can arrange luggage storage at the hotel. Please be aware the hotel is subject to change until your final documents are released.
- When and where does the tour start?
This tour generally starts from Sakura Ryokan in Tokyo and as the first day is just an arrivals day you can arrive at any time. After check-in, you can relax and unwind, before meeting with your Travel Director and fellow travellers at 6 pm. Afterwards, you’ll have some free time to explore Tokyo’s exhilarating nightlife. Please be aware the starting hotel is subject to change until your final documents are released.
- Do you arrange airport transfers?
Airport transfers are available for this tour at an additional cost, please contact our customer support team to arrange this. If you wish to make your own way to the hotel, the public transport system is much cheaper and more efficient, according to the tour operator.
- What are the optional excursions?
The optional excursions for this tour are:
Tokyo - Hamarikyu Garden. Price: JPY300
Karaoke. Price: JPY2000
Tokyo - Samurai Sword Museum. Price: JPY600
Rinnō-ji Temple. Price: JPY400
Nikko - Kanmangafuchi Abyss. Price: JPY200
Nikko - Toshogu Shrine. Price: JPY1300
Kyoto - Gion Corner cultural centre. Price: JPY2800
Kyoto - Imperial Palace. Price: Free
Kyoto Tower. Price: JPY770
Kyoto - Bike hire (per day). Price: JPY800
Please be advised that this list is a guideline only and all prices are subject to change. - Can you assist with booking additional accommodation?
Of course, we can! Once you have a confirmed booking on this tour, we can request additional accommodation for you with the tour operator.
- What are the group sizes?
Intrepid is a small group tour operator that has maximum group sizes of 16 passengers.
- Is this tour recommended for people travelling alone?
Over half of all Intrepid's travellers do it solo so it is a great way to get out, meet new people, and see the world together!
- Is there going to be a tour guide on this trip?
Regarding this tour, you will be led by a local leader (aka a guide) whose specialty is getting you from A to B and showing you the sights. They will be able to provide you with recommendations for food, attractions worth a visit or local language tips.
- What are the activities on this trip?
With regards to activities, there are a lot of optional activities that you can sign up for while you are travelling. There are also a few group activities included as well. These might include orientation walks in each city, visits to local markets and entrance fees for some of the major highlights along the way.
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