Japan Heritage Route

Embark on an 8-day journey through Japan with this tour, that is perfect for culture enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Start in the dynamic city of Fukuoka, exploring lively Yatai food stalls and experiencing vibrant local culture. Ride the high-speed Shinkansen to Hiroshima to visit the impactful Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and the iconic Atomic Bomb Dome. Take a day trip to Miyajima Island to see the stunning Itsukushima Shrine and its famous floating Torii gate. Continue to Okayama to wander through the picturesque Korakuen Garden and admire the historic Okayama Castle. In Kobe, explore the city’s modern charm and savor the renowned Kobe beef. In Osaka, delve into history at Osaka Castle and the tranquil Shitennoji Temple, followed by a culinary exploration of the bustling Dotonbori district. Enjoy a free day to discover more of Osaka, from the Umeda Sky Building to the lively Kuromon Ichiba Market. This meticulously crafted itinerary combines Fukuoka’s lively charm, Hiroshima’s historical depth, Okayama’s cultural beauty, Kobe’s modern appeal, and Osaka’s dynamic atmosphere. Stay in boutique hotels and traditional ryokans for comfort and authenticity throughout your unforgettable Japanese adventure. We can tailor this itinerary to suit your plans by changing the length of the trip or the order of activities.

08 Days – From £3,630 per person

*equivalent in USD, EUR accepted

Itinerary: Fukuoka, Hiroshima, Okayama, Kobe, Osaka

Included

Price is per person, based on two people sharing in a double/twin room
Mentioned hotels with breakfast (you can also choose other hotels)
All the excursions mentioned in the itinerary
All transfers by car and boat on a private basis
Entrance & guiding fees to all the mentioned National Parks
All mandatory local taxes

Excluded

Visa, where applicable
International Flights (See Flights to Japan)
Domestic Flights
Personal Expenses
Insurance
Tips & Gratuities
Meals not mentioned in the description

Flights

International flights are not included in the package price. We give you the freedom to book the flights yourself, use miles and choose your preferred airline, and if you are stuck we can help you find the right connections. Catch a flight to Fukuoka Airport (FUK) or Kansai Airport (KIX) if you wanna do the tour the other way around.

How to Book

Send us an email to check availability, discuss your references and get a quote.

This is a sample itinerary and prices are correct at the time of writing. We can tailor the trip up to your plans and book other hotels. You can also combine this trip with other sights in Japan. For more Japan travel inspiration check these itineraries.

When to Visit

The best times to explore Fukuoka, Hiroshima, Okayama, and Osaka are during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). In spring, these cities bloom with beautiful cherry blossoms and enjoy mild weather, making it an excellent time for sightseeing. Autumn offers spectacular fall foliage, enhancing the natural beauty of the area and providing comfortable temperatures for outdoor exploration.

Summer (June to August) brings warmth and lively festivals to Fukuoka and Osaka, perfect for experiencing local celebrations and coastal activities. However, be prepared for high humidity and occasional rain. Winter (December to February) provides a quieter charm with fewer crowds. Enjoy serene winter landscapes and unique seasonal experiences in Hiroshima, Okayama, and Fukuoka.

To avoid unpleasant weather surprises, we recommend to check our Japan Weather Guide to plan your trip in the right season. Click on the month you want to travel in and see the tours which are best for each month of the year.

Day 1 - Arrival in Fukuoka

Today you will arrive in Fukuoka, the largest city in Kyushu. The city is not overwhelmingly busy, yet it pulses with vibrant energy and life. After check-in, take a night stroll to get a first sense of the local atmosphere. A must-visit spot are the Yatai food stalls. These outdoor stalls have been a beloved feature of Fukuoka’s nightlife for over a century, offering delicious street food and a lively, communal vibe. They remain a quintessential part of the Fukuoka experience. Sample local favorites such as Hakata ramen, yakitori and tempura, while soaking in the vibrant ambiance. You’ll feel the excitement and warmth of Fukuoka, making it clear that you have fully arrived in Japan. Overnight at The OneFive Villa Fukuoka.

Day 2 - Hiroshima

After breakfast, board the Shinkansen bullet train to Hiroshima (1 hour). Upon arrival, visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, which provides a moving experience with detailed exhibits and personal stories about the impact of the atomic bomb dropped in 1945. Next, visit the Atomic Bomb Dome, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The ruins stand as a reminder of the destruction, becoming a symbol of peace and resilience. Then, walk through the serene Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, dedicated to the victims of the atomic bomb. Visit the Cenotaph for the Victims of the atomic bomb, listing the names of those who died, and the Children’s Peace Monument, inspired by the story of Sadako Sasaki and her thousand paper cranes. After the guided tour, try Hiroshima’s local cuisine, such as okonomiyaki, a savory pancake. Overnight at Grand Prince Hotel Hiroshima.

Day 3 - Miyajima

After breakfast take a ferry to Miyajima Island from Miyajimaguchi. Enjoy picturesque views of the Seto Inland Sea on the way. Upon arrival, visit the Itsukushima Shrine with the floating Torii gate, a a UNESCO World Heritage site. Next, take a moderate path to the top of Mount Misen (3 km), passing through lush forests and encountering breathtaking viewpoints. At the top enjoy panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea and the surrounding islands. Return by cable car in a relaxing pace. After descending, try some Miyajima specialties such as grilled oysters or momiji manju, enjoying the serene beauty of the island. Overnight at Hotel Miyajima Villa.

Day 4 - Okayama

Today take the bullet train from Hiroshima to Okayama (40 min). For lunch, enjoy a traditional Japanese meal, including Kibi dango and Okayama sushi. After lunch, take a guided tour of Korakuen Garden, one of Japan’s Three Great Gardens. Stroll through the beautifully landscaped grounds, featuring expansive lawns, ponds, and tea houses. Next, visit the historic Okayama Castle, known as “Crow Castle” due to its black exterior. Enjoy panoramic views of the city from the upper floors. In the late afternoon, explore Okayama’s shopping streets and local markets. Try local snacks, and immerse yourself in the everyday life of Okayama. In the evening, unwind at the hotel. Overnight at Ryori Ryokan Tsurugata.

Day 5 - Kobe

Today, take the bullet train from Okayama to Himeji (20 min). Upon arrival, visit the iconic Himeji Castle, Japan’s most exquisite and well-preserved feudal-era castle. Stroll through its vast grounds, climb to the top of the main keep, and marvel at the panoramic views. Then, enjoy a delightful lunch at a local eatery, savoring regional specialties like Anago (conger eel) or Himeji Oden, a comforting local stew. Next, board a train to Kobe (50 min), a vibrant city known for its blend of modernity and tradition. Explore the beauty of Kobes’ Chinatown, the Harbour and the shopping streets. For dinner, treat yourself to the ultimate culinary experience by trying the world-renowned Kobe beef at one of Kobe’s top steakhouses, prepared by expert chefs. Overnight at Arima Onsen Tocen Goshobo.

Day 6 - Osaka

This morning, transfer from Kobe to Osaka by train (35 min). Upon arrival, visit Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s most famous landmarks. Spend the morning exploring the castle grounds and visiting the museum inside. For lunch, enjoy a traditional Japanese meal at a nearby restaurant, sampling local specialties such as okonomiyaki (savory pancakes) or takoyaki (octopus balls). In the afternoon, visit the serene Shitennoji Temple, one of Japan’s oldest Buddhist temples. Next, head to the vibrant Dotonbori district, famous for its neon lights, bustling streets, and delicious street food. In the evening, join a street food dinner tour in Dotonbori. Try local delights such as kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers), takoyaki, and more. Overnight at Hotel Resol Trinity Osaka.

Day 7 - Osaka

After breakfast visit the futuristic Umeda Sky Building. Take the elevator up to the Floating Garden Observatory for stunning panoramic views of Osaka from the open-air deck. For lunch, head to the lively Kuromon Ichiba Market. Known as “Osaka’s Kitchen,” this market is a haven for food lovers. Stroll through the market, sampling fresh seafood, fruits, and local delicacies. In the afternoon, visit the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, one of the largest and most impressive aquariums in the world. Marvel at the diverse marine life and immersive exhibits. Next, visit the trendy Shinsaibashi shopping district and browse the boutiques, department stores, and quirky shops. In the evening, savor a relaxed dinner at a local izakaya (Japanese pub), where you can try a variety of small dishes and local drinks. Overnight at Hotel Resol Trinity Osaka.

Day 8 - Departure

Enjoy one last leisurely breakfast before taking a reflective stroll through a nearby garden or along the city streets. It’s a moment to ponder the unforgettable journey you’ve had, the cultural treasures you’ve discovered, and the unique connections you’ve made. When the time comes to say goodbye, our driver will be ready to escort you to the airport, ensuring a smooth departure. As you leave Japan behind, you carry more than just photographs; you take with you tales of adventure, moments of tranquility, and a newfound appreciation for the rich heritage and vibrant modernity of Japan. Osaka bids you farewell, leaving lasting impressions and an invitation to return.

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