A Journey to the Land of the Rising Sun
For those who dream of witnessing the seamless blend of neon-lit skyscrapers and serene ancient temples, Japan is a perennial favourite. However, the complexities of planning an international trip, from visa applications to language barriers, can be daunting.
To simplify this, the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has introduced an escorted tour package designed specifically for Indian travellers. This 9-night, 10-day journey promises a hassle-free exploration of Japan’s most iconic sights, bundling flights, accommodation, meals, and guided tours into a single, convenient booking.
The Whirlwind Itinerary: Tokyo to Hiroshima
The tour is designed to offer a comprehensive experience, covering a vast expanse of what Japan has to offer. The journey begins with a flight from Delhi to Tokyo. In the capital, travellers will explore key attractions like the historic Asakusa Temple, the vibrant Nakamise Shopping Street, Ueno Park, and the immersive digital art museum, TeamLab Planets. The itinerary then proceeds towards the majestic Mount Fuji, with a planned visit to its 5th Station, weather permitting. The tour includes a scenic cruise on Lake Ashi and a ride on the Hakone Ropeway for breathtaking views of the Owakudani valley. The cultural immersion continues in Kyoto with visits to the iconic Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and the golden Kinkaku-ji Temple. The tour also covers Nara, famous for its friendly deer park and the great Todai-ji Temple. A significant part of the journey includes a visit to Hiroshima to see the Peace Memorial Park, a poignant reminder of its history. A highlight for many will be the experience of travelling on the Shinkansen, Japan's world-famous bullet train.
What 'All-Inclusive' Really Covers
One of the biggest draws of this package is its all-inclusive nature, which aims to cover nearly all major expenses. According to IRCTC, the package includes return economy-class airfare from Delhi on All Nippon Airways (ANA), although the airline and schedule are subject to change. It also covers the cost of a Japan tourist visa, accommodation in comfortable four-star hotels, and all transfers and sightseeing in air-conditioned coaches. To cater to the Indian palate, daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner are part of the deal. Furthermore, the services of an English-speaking tour guide, travel insurance for passengers under 70, and all applicable taxes are included, ensuring travellers have minimal hidden costs to worry about.
Package Costs and Booking Details
The tour is scheduled to depart from Delhi on September 6, 2026, and return on September 15, 2026. The pricing structure is based on accommodation sharing. The cost starts at ₹3,45,999 per person for triple sharing. For those opting for twin-sharing, the price is ₹3,49,999 per person, and for single occupancy, it is ₹4,73,999. There are also provisions for children travelling with families. The package costs ₹2,92,499 for a child aged 5-11 with an extra bed, and ₹2,63,999 without a bed. Booking and further details are typically made available on the official IRCTC Tourism website, which serves as the primary portal for all such tour packages.
Is an Escorted Tour Right for You?
An escorted group tour like this one is particularly appealing to first-time international travellers or those who prefer a structured and secure travel experience. The convenience of having all logistics—from flights and visas to meals and sightseeing—handled by a trusted entity like IRCTC is a significant advantage. It eliminates the stress of independent planning and allows travellers to fully immerse themselves in the experience. While it may offer less flexibility than a self-planned trip, the trade-off is a comprehensive, guided journey through a country that can be challenging to navigate independently for the first time. The group setting also provides a sense of community and shared discovery among fellow Indian travellers.
