The 'Golden Route with Hiroshima' Package
IRCTC's offering for Japan enthusiasts in Mumbai is an 8-night, 9-day group tour named "Japan – The Golden Route with Hiroshima". This package is specifically designed for travellers who prefer a structured, guided experience, with most logistics handled
for them. The upcoming tour is scheduled to depart from Mumbai on October 25, 2026. The package bundles flights, accommodation, meals, and extensive sightseeing into a single booking, aiming to provide a comprehensive and stress-free introduction to Japan for first-time visitors.
A Packed Nine-Day Itinerary
The tour covers an ambitious and popular route. It begins in Tokyo, exploring modern marvels like the Tokyo Skytree, the immersive teamLab Planets digital art museum, and the famous Shibuya Crossing. From there, the itinerary includes a visit to the iconic Mt. Fuji and the scenic Hakone region, with experiences like a cruise on Lake Ashi and a trip on the Hakone Ropeway. The tour then proceeds to the cultural heart of Japan, Kyoto, to visit landmarks like the Kinkaku-ji Temple and Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. The plan also includes trips to Nara, famous for its friendly deer, and Osaka. A key highlight is a ride on the Shinkansen bullet train to Hiroshima to visit the poignant Peace Memorial Park and Museum.
Deconstructing the Cost
The package is priced at ₹3,36,200 per person for twin-sharing accommodation. It's important to note that an additional 2% Tax Collected at Source (TCS) is applicable on top of this price. While this may seem steep, it's crucial to examine what this price tag includes. The cost covers a wide array of services that would otherwise require individual booking and significant planning, from international airfare to daily meals and guide services.
What's Included and What's Not
The IRCTC package is largely all-inclusive. The price covers return economy class flights from Mumbai on Air India, 3-star hotel accommodation, Japan tourist visa fees, and travel insurance for passengers under 70. It also includes daily breakfast, plus Indian-style lunches and dinners, which can be a significant comfort and cost-saver for many travellers. All sightseeing as per the itinerary, entry tickets, and the services of an English-speaking guide are part of the deal. Crucially, this also includes the Shinkansen bullet train ticket and luggage transfers between key cities. What you'll need to budget for separately are personal expenses, shopping, any meals not specified, and optional activities outside the fixed itinerary.
The Verdict: Convenience vs. Independent Travel
So, is it worth the price? The answer depends entirely on your travel style. For those who value convenience, predictability, and the peace of mind that comes with a guided tour, the IRCTC package offers strong value. The stress of visa applications, booking multiple hotels, navigating Japan's complex transport system, and finding suitable food is completely removed. The price reflects this comprehensive service. An independent traveller, willing to spend significant time researching, booking budget accommodations, and being flexible with their plans, could potentially assemble a similar trip for less. However, they would sacrifice the comfort of a dedicated tour manager, group transport, and the curated, hassle-free experience that IRCTC provides. For many, especially first-time visitors to Japan or senior citizens, the premium paid for this convenience is a worthwhile investment.
