30th April - 21st May 2027
Twin Share $25,995*
Solo Traveller
Please enquire
John and I travelled to Japan in 2024 and we cannot wait to go back. It’s hard to say what we loved most, probably the incredible warmth and kindness of the people, but overall, I think it is the contrasts. The ancient temples amid neon cities, the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing that leads you to a silent tea ceremony. And then there’s the food. We loved it all, from cheap roadside okonomiyaki to unforgettable five-star teppanyaki. Eating in Japan isn’t just about nourishment, it’s art. Our 2027 Japan adventure will include a luxury cruise with Ponant, the best in the world, offering front-row seats to Japan’s stunning coastlines and hidden ports. We’ll try our hand at a cooking class, watch sumo wrestling, ride the bullet train and just when you think it can’t get better, we will sail on to South Korea, adding another incredible layer to our trip. Japan is a place where monks, manga, Michelin stars and egg sandwiches from the 7/11 coexist – and somehow it all makes perfect sense. We can’t wait to go again and would love to be there with you. Caroline x
Get Printable PDF Itinerary for this holiday
Group size: Minimum 15, Maximum 25
DAY 1 - BRISBANE - SINGAPORE
Today we meet at Brisbane International Airport to embark on our Hosted Holiday to Japan and Korea. We will be transiting Singapore with accommodation at Changi Airport.
Accommodation: Changi Airport
DAY 2 -TOKYO
This morning, we fly to Tokyo. Welcome to Japan! On arrival in Tokyo, we will be met by our local tour director and transferred by coach to our hotel. Your afternoon is at leisure to relax or venture out to explore the nearby surroundings. This evening, get to know your fellow travellers at a Welcome Dinner at a local restaurant.
Meals: D
Accommodation: Keio Plaza Hotel
DAY 3 - TOKYO
We start the day with a visit to the Imperial Palace Gardens (Kokyo Gaien), a tranquil green oasis in the heart of Tokyo. Next, travel to Asakusa, Tokyo’s most atmospheric historic district. Visit Senso-ji Temple, the city’s oldest Buddhist temple, where towering lanterns, drifting incense, and centuries-old rituals create a vibrant spiritual atmosphere. Continue along Nakamise Shopping Street, browsing colourful stalls selling traditional sweets, handcrafted souvenirs, and local specialties. Finish your day with spectacular views at Tokyo Skytree, Japan’s tallest structure.
Meals: B + L
Accommodation: Keio Plaza Hotel
DAY 4 - TOKYO
Sumo wrestling, Japan’s unofficial national sport, traces its origins back over a thousand years as a sacred ritual performed to entertain the gods and pray for good harvests. Today, we will enjoy a rare and engaging encounter with this powerful tradition as we meet two former professional sumo wrestlers. Through live demonstrations, they will explain the techniques, rules, and discipline behind sumo training and competition, offering fascinating insight into the lives of these elite athletes. This experience includes a hearty lunch of chankonabe—a nourishing hot pot traditionally eaten by sumo wrestlers to build strength. After lunch, continue to the serene Meiji Shrine, followed by a gentle walk through Harajuku and a brief stop at the famous Shibuya Crossing.
Meals: B + L
Accommodation: Keio Plaza Hotel
DAY 5 - HAKONE
Today we travel to Hakone National Park to experience one of Japan’s most iconic parks in the shadow of Mt Fuji. Throughout the tour we will have the chance to glimpse this awe-inspiring mountain, but please bear in mind that it needs to be a clear day. At Hakone Machi-ko you will board a pirate ship and sail across Lake Ashi to Togendi, with beautiful views of the mountains and even Mt Fuji (weather permitting). Our next stop is the Hakone Ropeway, where you can ride a cable car for more spectacular views, finishing at Gora Station before returning to Tokyo.
Meals: B + L
Accommodation: Keio Plaza Hotel
DAY 6 - KYOTO
This morning, we are transferred by coach to the train station where we board the iconic Shinkansen bullet train bound for Kyoto. Enjoy a smooth and scenic journey as we travel at high speed through Japan’s beautiful landscapes. Upon arrival in Kyoto you will be transferred to the hotel and the remainder of the day is free to unwind or explore the city.
Meals: B
Accommodation: Noku Kyoto Hotel
DAY 7 - KYOTO
Begin your day in Kyoto with a visit to Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), one of Japan’s most iconic landmarks. Continue to Ryoan-ji Temple, home to Japan’s most famous rock garden — an exquisite example of Zen simplicity. Next, explore the grandeur of Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built in the early 17th century. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided walk through Gion, Kyoto’s traditional geisha district, where charming wooden machiya houses line the narrow lanes. Finish your day with a Japanese tea ceremony, learning the art of harmony and mindfulness while savouring a freshly whisked bowl of matcha.
Meals: B + L
Accommodation: Noku Kyoto Hotel
DAY 8 - OSAKA
Enjoy a scenic drive from Kyoto to Osaka, with stops along the way to experience the natural and cultural beauty of Arashiyama. Begin your journey at the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, one of Kyoto’s most photographed and serene locations. Next, visit Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most important Zen temple in Arashiyama. Founded in the 14th century, Tenryu-ji is famed for its exquisite landscape garden, designed to reflect the surrounding mountains as part of the scenery.
Meals: B
Accommodation: Hotel Vischio Osaka
DAY 9 - OSAKA
This morning, we visit the historic Osaka Castle, an enduring symbol of the city’s samurai heritage. Explore the impressive outer grounds, stone walls, and moats as your guide shares stories of its dramatic past and the legacy of Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Enjoy sweeping views of Osaka from the observation deck inside the main tower. Enjoy a free afternoon to relax before an evening in Dotonbori, Osaka’s vibrant entertainment and dining district, famous for its neon lights, lively atmosphere, and giant billboards.
Meals: B
Accommodation: Hotel Vischio Osaka
DAY 10 - PONANT CRUISE - THE BEST OF JAPAN
Start your day with a visit to a nearby local supermarket, where you’ll explore the aisles and learn about everyday Japanese ingredients and Osaka-specific specialties. Next, head to the cooking studio to begin your hands-on culinary adventure. Enjoy your favourite drinks and small bites as we cook, creating a fun and authentic Japanese food experience. This afternoon we embark Ponant Le Soléal for your Best of Japan cruise. Take some time to settle into your suite and familiarise yourself with this beautiful ship, before sail away drinks and dinner.
Meals: B + L + D
Accommodation: Ponant Le Soléal
DAY 11 - TOMANO
Located on the island of Honshu, hugging the banks of the Sento Inland Sea, Tamano is a popular destination thanks to its sun drenched climate. Upon arrival, marvel at the way in which the city has been built along the coast at the foot of a deep, dark forest. In the area surrounding Tamano, stroll down the streets of Kurashiki, known as the ‘white-walled city’ in a nod to the pretty façades of the houses that line the streets of this ancient Edo-period trading town. Another major regional attraction is the Seto Ohashi bridge. Its 12.5 kilometres make it the world’s longest double-decker bridge.
Meals: B + L + D
Accommodation: Ponant Le Soléal
DAY 12 -MIYAJAMII ISLAND & HIROSHIMAST MORITZ
At the heart of the Inland Sea, Miyajima, the “island sanctuary” will reveal its treasures. In the background we will see the Shinto Grand Sanctuary, whose entrance is guarded by a magnificent vermillion “Torii“. Visiting Hiroshima is a moving experience. The town spreads along Honshu Island, along the inside coasts of Seto. While firmly focused on the future, Hiroshima doesn’t forget its past, and a visit to the Peace Memorial Park and Genbaku Dome is a must. You’ll enjoy the city’s modern, cosmopolitan atmosphere and effervescent nightlife just as much as the peaceful stillness of its natural parkland areas such as splendid Shukkei-en, the town’s historic garden.
Meals: B + L + D
Accommodation: Ponant Le Soléal
DAY 13 - BEPPU & OITA
A favourite destination for the Japanese, Beppu is now famous throughout the Japanese archipelago thanks to its onsen – volcanic hot springs in which people immerse themselves to relax with family or friends. From Beppu, you will set off to discover a lush, peaceful valley in which sit 60 majestic stone Buddhas carved out of the cliff face between the 12th and 14th centuries. Exuding a soothing air of serenity, the Mangetsuji site seems to have drifted off to sleep in the heart of a dense bamboo forest surrounded by rice fields. Recognised as a National Treasure of Japan, this set of sacred sculptures offers travellers a unique, wonderful experience.
Meals: B + L + D
Accommodation: Ponant Le Soléal
DAY 14 - UWAJIMA
Located on the west coast of Shikoku island, Uwajima will delight lovers of history and traditional customs. The magnificent Uwajima Castle was built in the 17th-century by the powerful Date clan and has a beautiful ornamental garden and bridge. The much-visited Taga Shrine is dedicated to fertility and is full of phalluses. As for eating, you must taste jakoten, a local delicacy based on fried fish.
Meals: B + L + D
Accommodation: Ponant Le Soléal
DAY 15 - YAKUSHIMA
Yakushima is a striking island in the South of Japan, covered in forest and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hikers are very fond of this destination because of the lush vegetation, Mount Miyanoura, the waterfalls and cascades. But without a doubt, the symbol of the island remains its many age-old cedar trees which are said to have inspired some of the scenes in the animated film Princess Mononoke. On this island, you will also find wildlife including the Japanese macaque, the sika deer, and green sea turtles which lay their eggs on the magnificent sandy beaches here.
Meals: B + L + D
Accommodation: Ponant Le Soléal
DAY 16 - KAGOSHIMA
The seaside city of Kagoshima, at the south of Kyushu Island, is best known for Sakurajima, an active volcano that faces Kinko Bay. A visit to this busy metropolis will remind you just how much the volcano is part of the inhabitants’ everyday life: in the wake of the almost daily eruptions, a delicate layer of ash settles on everything. The top of a buried three metre Torii (traditional Japanese gate) that was ‘swallowed up’ by a giant lava flow in 1914, can still be seen. The power of nature will send a shiver down your spine.
Meals: B + L + D
Accommodation: Ponant Le Soléal
DAY 17 - NAGASAKI
Located on the north-west coast of Kyushu, Nagasaki will impress you with its rich heritage. Despite the destruction in 1945, you can visit several ancient sites, including the beautiful 19th-century Catholic Church of Oura and its garden, the sanctuary of Suwa Shrine or several Buddhist temples. A visit to the Atomic Bomb Museum gives you an insight into the extent of the damage caused by the nuclear attack. Close by, a walk in the Memorial Peace Park leads you to a collection of objects d’art offered as a gift from Japan to the world.
Meals: B + L + D
Accommodation: Ponant Le Soléal
DAY 18 - BUSAN
Welcome to South Korea! After farewelling the Le Soléal we start our exploration of Busan, visiting the colourful Gamcheon Culture Village. Continue to Jagalchi Fish Market, Korea’s largest seafood market. Walk through the lively stalls selling fresh fish and seafood. Next, travel to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, one of the most beautiful seaside temples in Korea. Enjoy ocean views, temple architecture, and a peaceful atmosphere unique to Busan. Visit one of Korea’s most famous beaches, Haeundae Beach This evening, enjoy a traditional Korean dinner.
Meals: B + L
Accommodation: Lotte Hotel Busan
DAY 19 - SEOUL
Today you travel to Seoul on the KTX High-Speed train. Upon arrival to Seoul, you are transferred to the hotel. This afternoon you will take in the sights of Seoul.
Meals: B + D
Accommodation: Voco Myeondong
DAY 20 - SEOUL
Enjoy a Seoul city tour today that takes you to the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). Your first stop is Imjingak Peace Park, a symbolic site dedicated to peace and reunification. Explore key landmarks such as the Freedom Bridge and memorial monuments, and learn about the history and impact of the Korean War. Proceed to the DMZ area (subject to military regulations and ID verification). Visit the 3rd Tunnel, a secret passage discovered in the 1970s that was built by North Korea. Continue to a DMZ observatory, where you may view North Korean territory on clear days. After that head to the Gamaksan Suspension Bridge, one of Korea’s longest hanging bridges. Tonight, we have our farewell dinner at a local restaurant.
Meals: B + D
Accommodation: Voco Myeondong
DAY 21 - ENROUTE TO BRISBANE
Today we farewell South Korea and start our journey home. This evening will be spent enroute to Brisbane.
Meals: B
DAY 22 - BRISBANE
Our Hosted Holidays adventure in Japan and South Korea has come to an end and it is time to say farewell to our new friends and head for home with amazing memories of this tour.
IS THIS TRIP RIGHT FOR YOU?
At Hosted Holidays, we want every guest to have a safe, relaxed, and rewarding travel experience. To help ensure this, we kindly ask that you confirm at the time of booking that you are physically fit and able to take part in activities in the itinerary.
Fitness Level & Physical Requirements
This tour is designed for travellers with a moderate level of fitness. Daily sightseeing often involves walking through cities, temple complexes, markets, and historic sites, some of which include uneven surfaces, stairs, inclines, and extended periods of standing. The itinerary also includes full-day excursions, embarkation and disembarkation from a cruise ship, and the use of public transport such as bullet trains and high-speed rail. While the pace is comfortable and well-supported by local guides, participants should be able to walk unassisted for several kilometres at a time and manage their own luggage. Hiking on Yakushima and visits to large sites are optional.
Our experienced tour leaders are trained to accommodate a range of abilities within the group. However, if they believe that a particular activity may present a safety risk to you or others—or may impact the overall enjoyment of the group—they are authorised, in line with our Booking Conditions, to advise you to skip that activity. These decisions are never made lightly, and your wellbeing is always our priority.
Please note that if you are asked to sit out part of the tour, refunds are not provided, and any additional expenses incurred will be your responsibility.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
Travel insurance is a mandatory requirement for all Hosted Holidays. It’s important that you protect yourself in case of natural disasters, lost or delayed baggage and unforeseen medical expenses. We strongly recommend that the policy covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, repatriation and loss of luggage and personal effects. Make sure you keep any receipts for anything you may wish to claim for on your return – i.e. medical receipts etc. Please make sure you bring a copy of your policy with you on tour. We recommend that you take out travel insurance at the time of paying your deposit.
LOCAL CUSTOMS & ETIQUITTE
· Japan and South Korea both place great importance on politeness, respect, and social harmony. Bowing is customary in Japan, while a slight nod is common in Korea.
· Shoes are often removed when entering temples, traditional restaurants, and some accommodation.
· Speaking quietly on public transport is expected, and mobile phone conversations are discouraged.
· Cash is commonly used in Japan, and orderly queuing is the norm in both countries.
· Respect for elders and historical sites is deeply ingrained, and modest behaviour is appreciated, especially in religious locations.
PASSPORTS, VISAS & ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Passports
All information provided is based on Australian Passport holders only – please advise your travel advisor as soon as possible if you are travelling on a different passport.
· Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of arrival in Japan. This is a strict requirement for entry.
· Ensure you have at least one blank page for stamping.
· Japan: Australians can enter visa-free for short-term tourism stays.
· South Korea: Australians are also visa-exempt for tourist visits; however, an online K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) may be required prior to travel, subject to regulations at the time.
Visa requirements can change, and travellers are responsible for ensuring they meet all entry conditions before departure.
Japan and South Korea are culinary highlights of this journey. In Japan, expect a refined food culture focused on freshness, seasonality, and presentation, from sushi, tempura, ramen, and okonomiyaki to elegant multi-course meals and convenience-store surprises of remarkable quality. Dining is often an experience in itself. In South Korea, meals are vibrant and communal, featuring barbecued meats, fermented dishes like kimchi, spicy stews, seafood, and an array of small side dishes (banchan). Meals are generous, flavourful, and deeply rooted in tradition. If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, please inform your travel advisor well in advance so we can do our best to accommodate your needs throughout the trip
MEDICAL & HEALTH INFORMATION
No vaccinations are mandatory for entry into Japan or South Korea, but travellers should consult their GP well before departure for personalised advice. Bring sufficient prescription medication for the duration of the trip, along with a copy of your prescription. Medical facilities in both countries are of a high standard, particularly in major cities.
Pack for comfort, changing weather conditions, and cultural sensitivity. Layers are ideal for spring travel, and smart-casual clothing is suitable for most occasions.
Suggested items include:
· Comfortable walking shoes
· Light jacket or coat
· Casual and smart-casual outfits
· Modest clothing for temples (covered shoulders and knees)
· Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
· Daypack
· Travel umbrella
· Power adaptor
· Copies of passport, insurance & key documents
· Swimmers (for hotel pools or cruise amenities)
· Prescription medications (enough for the entire trip + extra in case of delays)
· Copy of prescriptions (in case refills are needed)
· Over-the-counter medications:
o Pain relievers (paracetamol/ibuprofen)
o Anti-nausea tablets (for ferry to Malta)
o Anti-diarrhoea tablets and rehydration salts
o Antihistamines (for allergies or insect bites)
o Motion sickness tablets (for ferry ride or coach travel)
· Small first-aid kit: Band-aids, blister pads, antiseptic wipes/cream
· Hand sanitiser and antibacterial wipes
· Copies of passport, insurance & key documents
CLIMATE & SEASONAL INFORMATION
April and May are among the best months to visit Japan and South Korea. Expect spring conditions with mild temperatures, blooming gardens, and comfortable sightseeing weather.
· Japan: Temperatures generally range from 15–25°C, with cooler evenings and occasional rain.
· South Korea: Similar spring conditions prevail, with mild days and low humidity.
Coastal areas visited during the cruise may be slightly warmer, while mountain regions such as Hakone can be cooler.
MONEY MATTERS
Japan’s currency is the Japanese Yen (JPY) and South Korea uses the Korean Won (KRW). Japan remains a largely cash-based society, particularly outside major cities, though cards are increasingly accepted. South Korea is more card friendly. ATMs are widely available, especially at convenience stores, hotels, and airports. Notify your bank before travel and carry a mix of cash and cards.
ATMs & Credit Card
ATMs are widely available in cities and larger towns, but may be limited in rural areas, so it’s best to carry some local currency in cash for smaller purchases, tips and emergencies. Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, shops, and restaurants, but it's advisable to carry cash for tips, markets, and local purchases.
Spending Money During Your Trip:
Spending habits vary by traveller, but you should allow enough cash for souvenirs, drinks, snacks, optional excursions, laundry, or personal expenses during your free time. While some expenses can be paid by card, smaller purchases and tips are best handled in local currency.
Gratuities:
Gratuities for included activities and meals are already covered in your Hosted Holiday, however, tips for optional tours or personal services are at your discretion and always appreciated.
CONNECTIVITY & COMMUNICATION
Free Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, on the Ponant cruise ship, and in many public spaces, though coverage can be inconsistent in rural areas.
Travellers may choose to purchase a SIM card or eSIM for convenience.
Both countries use Type A and Type C power plugs, with a standard voltage of 100V in Japan and 220V in South Korea. A universal adaptor is recommended.
LUGGAGE ALLOWANCE
Your international economy ticket includes 23kg of checked baggage per passenger, plus on piece of cabin baggage up to 7kg.
SAFETY
Japan and South Korea are considered very safe destinations, with low crime rates and excellent public infrastructure. Normal travel precautions apply, such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings in busy areas. Local guides and your tour host will provide up-to-date advice throughout the journey.
We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, cash and other valuable items. Please leave other valuables, such as jewellery, at home. Most accommodations provide safety deposit boxes, an excellent way of storing your valuables. We also advise you to keep a photocopy of your passport, separate from your actual passport, when you travel. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage.
Your Host will accompany you on all included activities, however during your trip you'll have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure. You should use your own judgment when choosing activities or excursions, which do not form part of the trip you have booked with Hosted Holidays. We can offer assistance in choosing how to spend your free time, but neither Hosted Holidays, nor any of its representatives can provide any guarantee about the safety or suitability of any activities or excursions, nor about the operators who organise these.
As in all countries, taking photos of police stations, border crossings, immigration controls, army barracks, military personnel or checkpoints, airports or political demonstrations is never a good idea, often illegal, and very likely to land you in trouble with the authorities.
Swimming and other water-based activities are always undertaken at your own risk. Please also note that your Host has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it's deemed necessary due to safety concerns.
• Japan has more than 7,000 islands
• The Shinkansen bullet trains are famous for their near-perfect punctuality
• South Korea has one of the fastest internet speeds in the world
• Convenience store food in Japan is internationally renowned for its quality
HELPFUL TRAVEL TIPS
• Always follow local customs at temples and historic sites, including appropriate dress and behaviour.
• Be prepared to remove your shoes in traditional venues and some restaurants.
• Carry cash in Japan, especially outside major cities, while South Korea is largely card-friendly.
• Public transport is efficient and punctual in both countries—arriving early is considered courteous.
• Embrace the contrast between tranquil temples and vibrant urban centres; this balance is central to the experience.
• Try local foods wherever possible meals are an important part of cultural connection in both Japan and Korea.
OPTIONAL TOURS
To be advised.
Note: All information provided is intended as a general guide only and is correct at the time of preparation. Conditions, timings, prices, and inclusions may change without notice due to factors such as weather, operational requirements, or local regulations. Hosted Holidays makes every effort to ensure accuracy but accepts no responsibility for variations beyond our control. We recommend checking closer to departure for the most up-to-date details, and please be aware that all optional activities are subject to availability and minimum participant numbers.
Hosted Holidays
1300 317 581
342 Mons Road, Forest Glen
Phone: 1300 317 581
Email: info@hostedholidays.com.au
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