An All-Inclusive Glimpse of Japan
The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) offers several curated international tours, and its 'Jewels of Japan' package is one of the most comprehensive. Typically spanning 9 nights and 10 days, these tours are designed to give travellers
a broad and immersive experience of the country. The package is aimed at those who prefer an organised group tour where major logistics like flights, hotels, visas, and sightseeing are handled for them. Recent iterations of the tour have departed from major Indian cities like Delhi and Mumbai, covering iconic Japanese destinations including Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima.
Decoding the Price Tag
The headline figure of up to ₹4.14 lakh reflects the higher end of the pricing spectrum, usually for single occupancy. The cost for these packages varies based on the departure city and the type of accommodation. For instance, a recent tour from Delhi started at approximately ₹3.46 lakh per person on a triple-sharing basis, rising to about ₹3.50 lakh for twin-sharing. The highest price, often in the range of ₹4.14 lakh to ₹4.73 lakh, is for solo travellers who opt for single occupancy accommodation. The package cost for children is lower, with different rates depending on whether an extra bed is required. These prices position the tour as a premium, all-inclusive product.
A Journey Through Japan's Highlights
The itinerary is packed with Japan's most famous sights. In Tokyo, travellers typically visit the historic Asakusa Temple, the bustling Nakamise-dori street, the Imperial Palace, and the modern marvels of Tokyo Skytree and the digital art museum, teamLab Planets. A major highlight is the trip to the Mount Fuji region, which often includes reaching the 5th Station (weather permitting) and enjoying the scenic beauty of Hakone with a ropeway and a cruise. The tour also includes a ride on the world-famous Shinkansen bullet train, a quintessential Japanese experience. The cultural heart of the trip lies in Kyoto, with visits to the golden Kinkaku-ji Temple and the iconic Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. The itinerary is rounded out with trips to Nara to see the friendly deer at Nara Park and to Hiroshima to reflect at the Peace Memorial Park.
What’s Included in the Cost?
A significant portion of the cost is justified by the extensive list of inclusions, which provides a nearly all-encompassing travel experience. The package price covers return economy-class airfare from India. It also includes the often-tedious process of securing a Japan tourist visa. Accommodation is typically provided in 4-star hotels throughout the trip. Daily meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, are part of the deal, often catering to Indian palates. All sightseeing, entry fees to monuments and parks mentioned in the itinerary, and travel in air-conditioned coaches are covered. Furthermore, the assistance of an English-speaking local guide and an IRCTC tour manager ensures a smooth journey. Travel insurance is also included for passengers under the age of 70.
What You’ll Still Need to Budget For
While the package is largely all-inclusive, there are some expenses that travellers will need to cover out of pocket. These typically include the cost of any meals or beverages not explicitly mentioned in the itinerary. Personal expenses such as shopping, laundry, and telephone calls are not included. One common exclusion is tips for guides, drivers, and hotel staff, which are an expected custom in many group tours. Additionally, any optional tours or activities that are not part of the pre-planned itinerary will incur extra charges. It's also worth noting that a 2% TCS (Tax Collected at Source) may be applicable at the time of booking, which clients may be able to claim back in their income tax filings.
