Osaka • Tokyo • Hakone | September 6–13, 2027
Welcome to an unforgettable journey through Japan, thoughtfully curated by Surreal Journeys Travel for travelers who want to experience the culture, history, and energy of Japan without the stress of planning it all themselves.
This immersive group experience is designed especially for first-time visitors to Japan, blending iconic sights, hands-on cultural activities, and modern adventures with intentional free time to explore at your own pace. From the historic streets of Osaka to the neon-lit excitement of Tokyo and the natural beauty of Hakone, this journey offers the perfect balance of structure and flexibility.
Travel in comfort with 4-star accommodations, private transfers, and the world-famous Shinkansen bullet train, ensuring seamless movement between cities. Along the way, you will step into Japan’s past through castles, temples, and traditional roads, while also enjoying unforgettable modern experiences like sumo culture, kimono dressing, and go-karting through Tokyo’s metropolitan streets.
This is not a rushed tour. It is a carefully paced experience that allows you to truly absorb Japan’s contrasts, ancient traditions and cutting-edge innovation, bustling city life and peaceful nature, guided experiences and personal discovery.
Whether you are traveling solo, with friends, or as a couple, this group journey provides community, comfort, and confidence every step of the way.
Japan made easy.
Guided where it matters. Free where it counts.
We look forward to welcoming you to one of the most exciting and culturally rich destinations in the world.
Transport: Flight (Your arrangements)
Accommodation: Osaka Excel Hotel Tokyu **** (Superior Twin or King room)
Today's Activities: One way transfer between airport and hotel
Accommodation: Osaka Excel Hotel Tokyu **** (Superior Twin Room)
Today's Activities:
Osaka Castle Park (Tenshu included),
Osaka City Walk: From Market to Canal Lights,
Ninja Experience at Ninja Do
Osaka Castle Park (Tenshu included) : Osaka Castle is arguably Osaka's most prominent landmark and belies bloody power struggles leading up to the 1603 foundation of the Edo era. While its history dates back to 1583, the landmark main tower that is the castle's icon was only re-constructed in 1931.
Today, the history museum adjacent to the castle documents its rich history, while the surrounding park and green space are a hub for Osakans to jog, cycle and relax.
Osaka City Walk: From Market to Canal Lights :
Embark on a walking tour that captures the vibrant spirit of Osaka! Your journey begins at Kuromon Market, often dubbed "Osaka's kitchen." Browse the vibrant stalls of the marketplace and absorb its intense, lively atmosphere, viewing the incredible array of fresh, local delicacies on display. Should you wish to sample any items, you are welcome to purchase them at your leisure during the market visit.
Next, you'll step away from the bustling streets and into the serene, stone-paved alley of Hozenji Yokocho. This hidden gem transports you back in time, centered around the moss-covered Hozenji Temple—a perfect spot for a quiet moment of reflection before diving back into the city's energy.
The tour continues into Osaka’s iconic pleasure quarter, where you will enjoy a unique hands-on experience. At a popular takoyaki (octopus ball) shop, you will get to make and savor your own takoyaki. Learn the art of flipping the dough and enjoy the delicious reward of your labor!
As dusk falls, you will walk onto the Nipponbashi Bridge to witness the stunning transformation of the Dotonbori Canal. Watch the iconic billboards and neon signs, like the Glico Running Man, illuminate the water, creating a dazzling spectacle. The walk culminates with a 20-minutes Dotonbori River Cruise, where you’ll glide along the canal, taking in the electrifying atmosphere and brilliant reflections of the city lights from a unique water perspective.
It seamlessly blends historical culture, hands-on culinary fun, and the breathtaking excitement of Osaka's illuminated urban landscape.
Note: The total experience duration is approximately 2 to 3 hours. The tour fee includes the takoyaki making and tasting.
Ninja Experience at Ninja Do (1 hour) : The Ninja Experience at Ninja Do in Osaka provides a unique and immersive insight into the mysterious world of the ninja, ancient Japan's covert agents. This engaging experience allows participants to step into the shoes of a ninja for a day, learning about their history, tactics, and the role they played in Japanese society.
At Ninja Do, you'll have the opportunity to learn traditional ninja skills from trained professionals. This includes lessons in stealth movements, concealment techniques, and even the use of ninja weapons such as shuriken (throwing stars) and blowguns. But the experience isn't just about physical skills. It also delves into the mental and philosophical aspects of the ninja way of life. You'll learn about the ninja code of conduct, their strategies, and their unique philosophy.
One of the highlights of the Ninja Experience at Ninja Do is the opportunity to wear authentic ninja attire. Wearing these traditional garments adds an extra layer of authenticity to the experience and makes for some great photo opportunities.
Whether you're a history enthusiast, a fan of Japanese culture, or just looking for a unique and fun experience in Osaka, the Ninja Experience at Ninja Do is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.
Osaka Castle from above
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Osaka Castle
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Ninja Experience at Ninja Do
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Ninja Experience at Ninja Do
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Accommodation: Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro **** (Superior Twin or king Room)
Today's Activities:
Private transfers between hotels and train stations
Shin Osaka to Tokyo by Bullet Train in Standard Class / Time: 2 h 36 minutes.
Seat: Standard Class.
Accommodation: Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro **** (Superior Twin or king Room)
Today's Activities:
Sensoji Asakusa, Nakamise Shopping Arcade
Japanese Kimono Experience,
Sumo Show and Experience (with Sumo Lunch)
1-Hour Kart Driving Experience in the Metropolitan Area of Tokyo (IDP required)
Sensoji Asakusa : Tokyo's oldest temple, Sensoji contains a sacred statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. Surrounded by imposing gates, a five-story pagoda, and the vibrant stalls of Nakamise Dori, Sensoji is a must-see destination during your trip in Japan. Also a lively marketplace (Nakamise-dori Street), holy smoke and fortunes at Tokyo's most iconic temple.
Nakamise Shopping Arcade : Nakamise-dori is a quintessential Japanese shopping arcade right by Sensoji Temple.
Get a feel for old-school Tokyo at one of Japan's oldest shopping streets, Nakamise-dori, which dates back to the 17th century. Most shops in this arcade have been run by the same families for several generations, serving souvenirs, top-class street food and irresistible snacks.
Japanese Kimono Experience : For generations, Japanese style has been defined by a single garment: the kimono. Historically significant, aesthetically fascinating, and steeped in symbolism, the kimono captures the exquisite elegance of Japanese culture and design, proving that clothing can be much more than meets the eye. Strike a pose wearing a traditional Japanese kimono during your visit in Tokyo. Pick from your choice before smiling for your own photo session.
Sumo Show and Experience (with Sumo Lunch) (2 hours) : We are pleased to present an exclusive opportunity for an immersive engagement with sumo wrestling culture. Gain insightful knowledge about the intricacies of the sumo world, the intimate aspects of their daily routine, and savor the traditional sumo dish, Chanko-nabe. This unique experience offers the rare chance to engage in a friendly sumo contest with retired professional wrestlers. Enjoy the pairing of a potent sumo performance with a hearty bowl of Chanko-nabe, a gastronomic encounter not readily available elsewhere.
In-depth and accurate knowledge of sumo traditions will be shared during this session, providing you with the opportunity to sample Chanko-nabe - a distinctive meal integral to sumo dietary customs. You will learn about sumo manner, training, the real match and so on with explanations in English.
1-Hour Kart Driving Experience in the Metropolitan Area of Tokyo (IDP required) : Visitors to Tokyo seeking a fun and quirky experience should look no further than this go-kart tour of Tokyo. To make sure you stand out from the crowds even further you can don a cartoon character costume for your ride. This is an ideal way to have fun with friends while seeing the sights and making memories you'll never forget.
*Note: Drive a go-kart with confidence in busy Tokyo with a guide.
An international driving permit issued by the local authority of your country such as AAA, CAA, or AA, as well as your passport, is required.
Sensoji Asakusa
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Sensoji Asakusa
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Japanese Kimono Experience
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Japanese Kimono Experience
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Kart experience in Shinjuku drive metropolitan area (*IDP required)
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Kart experience in Shinjuku drive metropolitan area (*IDP required)
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Sumo Show and Experience (with Sumo Lunch)
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Sumo Show and Experience (with Sumo Lunch)
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Accommodation: Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro **** (Superior Twin or king Room)
Today's Activities:
Walking a Highlights Section of the Old Tokaido Road - Hakone Hachiri: From Amasake Chaya Tea House to Hakone Checkpoint (about 4km/2.5miles; 1 hour),
Lake Ashi, Sightseeing Cruise on Lake Ashi, Owakudani, Owakudani Ropeway
Walking a Highlights Section of the Old Tokaido Road - Hakone Hachiri: From Amasake Chaya Tea House to Hakone Checkpoint (about 4km/2.5miles; 1 hour) (1 hour) :
The Old Tokaido Way is a historic route in Japan that connected Kyoto, the former capital, with Edo (present-day Tokyo), the seat of the shogunate government. It was one of the five major highways of Japan during the Edo period (1603-1867) and served as a vital trade route and a pathway for travelers, pilgrims, and samurai warriors.
Hakone Hachiri is a section of the old Tokaido that has been designated as a national heritage site in Japan.
Today, you'll walk through Hakone Hachiri and feel as if you're transported back in history. Start at the historic Amasake Chaya Tea House, where the 13th generation of the same family serves traditional amasake drinks in a wonderfully preserved building. Enjoy a cup of this refreshing beverage to energize yourself before or after your hike. Hike through Hakone Hachi-ri's primitive roads to Lake Ashinochi and Cedar Avenue, lined with towering 400-year-old Japanese cedar trees. Along the way, immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Hakone region. End your walk at the Hakone Checkpoint, a crucial checkpoint on the Old Tokaido Road during the Edo period. This historic site offers a glimpse into Japan's past and a chance to appreciate the region's cultural heritage.
Owakudani
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Owakudani
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Lake Ashi
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Sightseeing Cruise on Lake Ashi
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Sightseeing Cruise on Lake Ashi
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Owakudani Ropeway
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Owakudani Ropeway
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the Old Tokaido Road
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Walking a Highlights Section of the Old Tokaido Road - Hakone Hachiri: From Amasake Chaya Tea House to Hakone Checkpoint (about 4km/2.5miles; 1 hour)
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Accommodation: Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro **** (Superior Twin or king Room)
Today's Activities: Day at Leisure
Accommodation: Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro **** (Superior Twin or king Room)
Today's Activities: Free day for own leisure not tour guide and driver service
Transport: Flight (Your arrangements)
Today's Activities: One way transfer between airport and hotel
Land Package Rates
$2,798 per person based on double occupancy
$3,798 per person for solo travelers
This rate includes accommodations, transportation, listed activities, and meals as outlined in the itinerary.
Early booking allows you to secure your spot with manageable monthly payments while locking in your rate for this highly anticipated experience.
7 nights in 4-star hotels
Osaka Excel Hotel Tokyu
Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro
Daily breakfast
One-way and round-trip private transfers as outlined in the itinerary
Shinkansen bullet train from Osaka to Tokyo (Standard Class)
Guided sightseeing and cultural experiences including:
Osaka Castle Park (Tenshu included)
Osaka city walking tour with food experience and river cruise
Ninja Experience at Ninja Do
Sensoji Temple and Nakamise Shopping Street
Kimono experience
Sumo show and traditional sumo lunch
Tokyo go-kart driving experience (IDP required)
Hakone cultural and nature experience including Old Tokaido Road walk, Lake Ashi cruise, Owakudani, and ropeway
Professional local guides during guided activities
International airfare
Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
Meals not listed in the itinerary
Personal expenses and optional activities
International Driving Permit (required for go-kart experience)
International Driving Permit (IDP) is required to participate in the Tokyo go-kart experience. IDPs must be obtained in your home country prior to departure.
Some activities are shared group experiences and not private.
Hakone walking portions include uphill and downhill sections. Comfortable walking shoes are required.
The area around Owakudani contains sulfuric gases and strong odors. Guests with respiratory sensitivities should take precautions.
This itinerary includes free time in Tokyo for personal exploration. No guide or transportation will be provided on free days unless otherwise noted.
First-time visitors to Japan
Solo travelers seeking community
Couples and friends traveling together
Travelers who want cultural immersion without rushed schedules
Space is limited for this group experience to maintain quality, comfort, and pacing. Once capacity is reached, registration will close without notice.
We encourage you to secure your spot early and take advantage of the extended payment plan.
We look forward to exploring Japan with you.
To make this experience accessible and stress-free, we are offering an extended payment plan:
18 months to pay
Monthly payments starting at approximately $140 per person
Payments are automatically billed according to the selected payment schedule