An All-Inclusive Journey
IRCTC's 'Japan – The Golden Route with Hiroshima' package is designed for travellers who prefer a well-planned group tour without the stress of managing logistics. The package departing from Mumbai includes return airfare on Air India, visa fees, and
accommodation in well-regarded hotels. Also covered are most meals (daily breakfast, plus Indian-style lunches and dinners), all internal transfers by coach, and entry tickets to the various attractions mentioned in the itinerary. A key highlight is the inclusion of a ride on the world-famous Shinkansen bullet train. To ensure a smooth experience, the services of an English-speaking local guide and an IRCTC tour manager are provided throughout the trip, along with travel insurance for eligible passengers.
Tokyo: A Tale of Two Cities
The adventure begins in Japan's bustling capital, Tokyo. The itinerary offers a fantastic blend of the city's modern marvels and its deep-rooted traditions. Travellers will visit the ancient and revered Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, a vibrant cultural hub. For a glimpse into the future, the tour includes a visit to the immersive digital art museum, teamLab Planets, and a trip up the towering Tokyo Skytree for breathtaking panoramic views. You'll also experience the world-famous Shibuya Crossing, the planet's busiest intersection, and explore the electronics mecca of Akihabara. A visit to the Odaiba area and even a sumo show are part of the Tokyo experience, providing a comprehensive look at this dynamic metropolis.
Mount Fuji and Hakone's Natural Splendor
No trip to Japan is complete without witnessing the majestic Mount Fuji. Weather permitting, the tour takes you to the Mount Fuji Fifth Station, a point high up the mountain's slopes offering spectacular views. The journey continues to the scenic resort town of Hakone, nestled in the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Here, you will take the Hakone Ropeway, which provides stunning aerial views of the volcanic Owakudani valley. A serene cruise across Lake Ashi on a pirate ship is also on the agenda, offering another perfect vantage point to admire the iconic, snow-capped peak of Mount Fuji from a distance.
Kyoto and Nara: The Cultural Heartbeat
From modern cities, the tour shifts to Japan's cultural heartland. In Kyoto, the former imperial capital, you will explore some of the nation's most treasured sites. The itinerary includes the stunning Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, and the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates winding up the mountainside. Another highlight is the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. A short trip to the nearby city of Nara is also included. Here, you'll visit Nara Park, where friendly deer roam freely, and the magnificent Todai-ji Temple, which houses a giant bronze Buddha statue.
Hiroshima and Osaka: History and Modern Energy
A significant and moving part of the journey is the visit to Hiroshima, reached via a swift ride on the Shinkansen bullet train. Here, travellers will visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum, poignant sites that commemorate the atomic bombing of 1945 and advocate for world peace. The tour also includes a visit to the scenic Miyajima Island, famous for its 'floating' Itsukushima Shrine. The itinerary then moves to Osaka, a city known for its vibrant food scene and energetic nightlife. A key attraction here is the magnificent Osaka Castle, a symbol of the city's rich history. Depending on the final schedule, a visit to the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan might also be included.
