Iris Martin

Surreal Journeys Travel LLC

SJT Japan Experience - 2027

Japan

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.

 

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 - Mon Sep. 6, 2027, Arrive in Osaka

Transport: Flight (Your arrangements)
Accommodation: Osaka Excel Hotel Tokyu **** (Superior Twin or King room)
Today's Activities: One way transfer between airport and hotel

 

Day 2 - Tue Sep. 7, 2027, Osaka - Meals: Breakfast

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
Osaka Castle from above
Osaka Castle
Osaka Castle
Ninja Experience at Ninja Do
Ninja Experience at Ninja Do
Ninja Experience at Ninja Do
Ninja Experience at Ninja Do
Day 3 - Wed Sep. 8, 2027, Osaka to Tokyo - Meals: Breakfast

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.

 

Day 4 - Thu Sep. 9, 2027, Tokyo - Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

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
Sensoji Asakusa
Sensoji Asakusa
Sensoji Asakusa
Japanese Kimono Experience
Japanese Kimono Experience
Japanese Kimono Experience
Japanese Kimono Experience
Kart experience in Shinjuku drive metropolitan area (*IDP required)
Kart experience in Shinjuku drive metropolitan area (*IDP required)
Kart experience in Shinjuku drive metropolitan area (*IDP required)
Kart experience in Shinjuku drive metropolitan area (*IDP required)
Sumo Show and Experience (with Sumo Lunch)
Sumo Show and Experience (with Sumo Lunch)
Sumo Show and Experience (with Sumo Lunch)
Sumo Show and Experience (with Sumo Lunch)
Day 5 - Fri Sep. 10, 2027, Tokyo to Hakone to Tokyo - Meals: Breakfast

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.

 
Note:
1.This tour will include a short break around 15 minutes in Amasake Chaya Tea House with a cup of amasake tea per person.
2.The walk will take you through the forest, with both uphill and downhill sections. Please wear comfortable sneakers with good traction, especially those with non-slip soles.


Lake Ashi : Lake Ashi, also referred to as Hakone Lake or Ashinoko Lake, is a scenic lake in the Hakone area of Kanagawa Prefecture in Honshu, Japan. It is a crater lake that lies along the southwest wall of the caldera of Mount Hakone, a complex volcano that last erupted in 1170 CE at Owakudani. It is a popular tourist destination, and is known for its beautiful scenery and views of Mount Fuji. There are many activities that can be enjoyed on the lake, including boat rides, cruises, and fishing.


Sightseeing Cruise on Lake Ashi (30 minutes) : This sightseeing ship navigates Lake Ashi like a pirate ship! At present there are 3 different design pirate ships! Don't miss prime spots with Mt. Fuji and the laketop torii gate of Hakone-jinja shrine both in the same view! As well as the views to be had around the lake, the details on the ship are also a sight not to miss!
The Hakone scenery seen from the lake is completely beautiful. In the ship, 3D art and pirate objects, etc., can be enjoyed by children and adults alike.


Owakudani : Owakudani is a volcanic valley located in the Hakone caldera in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan. It is a popular tourist destination known for its boiling mud pools, fumaroles, and sulfurous steam. The name Ōwakudani means "Great Boiling Valley" in Japanese. It is formed by a collapsed caldera, and is filled with boiling mud, hot springs, and fumaroles. The sulfurous steam from the fumaroles can be seen rising up from the valley, and the smell of sulfur is strong. Visitors can walk around the edge of the pools and watch the mud bubbling and boiling. It is said that eating a black boiled egg from Owakudani will add seven years to your life.


Owakudani Ropeway : The observation platform offers breathtaking views of 'Owakudani', Hakone's most famous tourist spot. Desolate mountainside covered by plumes of smoke produce a distinct scene so fitting the area's former name of Hell Valley. Now, the Hakone Ropeway rising above Owakudani. There are also many scenic spots to be seen from the ropeway. Traveling from Sounzan to Owakudani, passengers can see the bottom of the valley below, and, when on route to Togendai, they can enjoy views of Mt. Fuji and Lake Ashi. Between Sounzan Station and Owakudani Station, there is a place where the ropeway passes over the valley around 130m from the ground, offering stunning scenery of the impressive valley floor below.

Note:
The area around Owakudani has a strong smell of sulfur. The smell comes from the white gas that fumaroles spew out all year. The gas contains sulfur and has a distinctive smell. The area is also shrouded in a sulfuric mist. Please be prepared.

 

Owakudani
Owakudani
Owakudani
Owakudani
Lake Ashi
Lake Ashi
Sightseeing Cruise on Lake Ashi
Sightseeing Cruise on Lake Ashi
Sightseeing Cruise on Lake Ashi
Sightseeing Cruise on Lake Ashi
Owakudani Ropeway
Owakudani Ropeway
Owakudani Ropeway
Owakudani Ropeway
the Old Tokaido Road
the Old Tokaido Road
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)
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)
Day 6 - Sat Sep. 11, 2027, Tokyo - Meals Included - Breakfast

Accommodation: Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro **** (Superior Twin or king Room)
Today's Activities: Day at Leisure

Day 7 - Sun Sep. 12, 2027, Tokyo - Meals included - Breakfast

Accommodation: Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro **** (Superior Twin or king Room)
Today's Activities: Free day for own leisure not tour guide and driver service

 

Day 8 - Mon Sep. 13, 2027, Depart Tokyo - Meals: Breakfast

Transport: Flight (Your arrangements)
Today's Activities: One way transfer between airport and hotel

 

 

💰 TRIP PRICING & PAYMENT INFORMATION

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.


✅ WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • 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


❌ NOT INCLUDED

  • 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)


⚠️ IMPORTANT NOTES

  • 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.


🧳 WHO THIS TRIP IS PERFECT FOR

  • First-time visitors to Japan

  • Solo travelers seeking community

  • Couples and friends traveling together

  • Travelers who want cultural immersion without rushed schedules


📌 FINAL NOTE

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.

 
 

Terms & Conditions:

💳 FLEXIBLE PAYMENT PLAN

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 

Cancellation policy:
We understand that plans can change, and we’re sorry to hear if you need to cancel your trip to Asia. Should you need to adjust your travel arrangements, here’s our refund policy:
 
$300 Per person Deposit - NON-REFUNDABLE
Remaining payments policy:
25% non-refundable beginning January 1, 2027
50% non-refundable beginning March 1, 2027
75% non-refundable beginning May 1, 2027
100% non-refundable beginning June 5, 2027
Monthly payments required
$75 Late payment will be added for each month of missed payment
Missing 2 months of payments will automatically cancel reservation
 
*Please allow up to 30 business days for refunds
 
 

Available Packages

SJT Japan 2027 - Solo Occupancy
Unavailable as of December 31, 2025

$3,798.00
Deposit: $300.00 per person

SJT Japan 2027 - Double Occupancy
Unavailable as of December 31, 2025

$2,798.00
Deposit: $300.00 per person

SJT Japan Waiting List
Available until December 31, 2026

$1.00
Deposit: $1.00 per person

We will contact you if a spot becomes available.