An Overview of the Grand Tour
For Indian travellers who prefer a structured holiday without the complexities of individual planning, IRCTC has introduced a comprehensive tour package to Japan. The most prominent offering is a 10-day, 9-night journey that covers the country's famous
'Golden Route' and beyond. Typically departing from major Indian cities like Delhi or Mumbai, these packages are designed to be all-inclusive, bundling return airfare, visa charges, four-star hotel accommodations, and daily meals. The cost for a recent package from Delhi starts at approximately ₹3,45,999 per person on a triple-sharing basis. The price also includes travel insurance, airport transfers, sightseeing in air-conditioned coaches, and the expertise of an English-speaking guide, ensuring a seamless experience.
Tokyo: Where Tradition Meets Future
The journey almost always begins in Japan's bustling capital, Tokyo. The itinerary is packed with iconic sights that showcase the city's dynamic character. Travellers can expect to visit the ancient and revered Asakusa Kannon Temple (Senso-ji) and walk down the lively Nakamise Shopping Street leading up to it. The tour also often features a trip to modern marvels like the immersive digital art museum, TeamLab Planets, and a visit to the upscale district of Odaiba. This blend of old and new gives tourists a fantastic introduction to the cultural and technological pulse of Japan.
Hakone and the Majestic Mount Fuji
No trip to Japan is complete without witnessing the grandeur of Mount Fuji, and the IRCTC tour makes this a priority. The group travels to the scenic region of Hakone, a town known for its hot springs and natural beauty. Weather permitting, the itinerary includes a trip up to Mount Fuji's 5th Station, which offers breathtaking views of the iconic peak. The Hakone experience is further enriched with a ride on the Hakone Ropeway over the volcanically active Owakudani Valley and a scenic cruise across Lake Ashi on a pirate ship, providing multiple perspectives of the stunning landscape.
Kyoto and Nara: The Cultural Heart
From the modern metropolis, the tour shifts to Japan's cultural and historical heartland. In Kyoto, the former imperial capital, visitors are treated to sights like the glistening Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and the seemingly endless red torii gates of the Fushimi Inari Shrine. A walk through the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is another major highlight. A short trip to Nara, Japan's first permanent capital, is also included. Here, travellers can wander through Nara Park, famous for its friendly, free-roaming deer, and visit the Todai-ji Temple, which houses a giant bronze statue of Buddha.
Osaka: The Nation's Kitchen
Known for its vibrant food scene and lively nightlife, Osaka offers a different flavour of Japan. The itinerary typically includes a visit to the magnificent Osaka Castle, a symbol of the city's rich history and power. The castle park provides a beautiful backdrop for photos and a peaceful stroll. While extensive exploration of its famous food districts like Dotonbori might depend on the specific tour's schedule, the stop in Osaka provides a glimpse into the energetic and commerce-driven spirit of the Kansai region. Many tours use Osaka as a base for exploring nearby Kyoto and Nara.
Hiroshima: A Journey of Remembrance
A deeply moving part of the tour is the visit to Hiroshima. This leg of the journey is dedicated to understanding a pivotal moment in modern history. Travellers visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum, a poignant tribute to the victims of the atomic bombing. The park includes the iconic Atomic Bomb Dome, the skeletal remains of the only structure left standing in the area. The visit often extends to the nearby Miyajima Island, home to the famous Itsukushima Shrine and its 'floating' torii gate, offering a moment of serene reflection after the solemnity of the Peace Park.
