An Overview of the Journey
IRCTC is offering a comprehensive, escorted tour of Japan designed for travellers who prefer a structured and hassle-free holiday. The primary offering is a 10-day, 9-night package that departs from Delhi, though similar packages from other cities like
Mumbai and Ahmedabad are also available. This tour is designed to be all-inclusive, bundling flights, accommodation, meals, visa processing, and a full sightseeing itinerary into a single booking, making it an attractive option for first-time visitors to Japan.
Flights and Transportation
The package includes return economy-class airfare, typically departing from Delhi for Tokyo's Haneda Airport. Recent offerings have scheduled flights with carriers like All Nippon Airways (ANA). Once in Japan, all sightseeing is conducted in air-conditioned coaches, ensuring comfortable travel between cities and attractions. A major highlight of the trip is the inclusion of a ride on the iconic Shinkansen, or bullet train, allowing travellers to experience one of the world's fastest and most efficient rail networks. All necessary airport transfers are also part of the package.
Hotels and Accommodation
Throughout the tour, travellers are accommodated in comfortable four-star hotels. The choice of hotels is aimed at providing a relaxing and convenient base for the packed sightseeing schedule. The pricing structure for the package varies based on the type of room occupancy chosen, with options available for single travellers, twin-sharing, and triple-sharing to suit different budgets and preferences. For families, specific pricing is also available for children travelling with adults.
A Taste of Japan: The Meal Plan
A significant convenience of this package is that it includes daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This removes the daily guesswork and expense of finding places to eat in an unfamiliar country. The meal plan is often a mix, with reports indicating that arrangements are made at Indian restaurants for some meals, catering to the palates of travellers from India, while also offering opportunities to sample local cuisine. This thoughtful inclusion ensures that food is both comfortable and part of the cultural experience.
Experiences: A Packed Itinerary
The tour covers a wide array of Japan's most famous cities and landmarks. The journey typically begins in Tokyo, exploring sites like the historic Asakusa Temple, the bustling Nakamise Shopping Street, and the immersive digital art museum, TeamLab Planets. The itinerary then moves towards the iconic Mount Fuji, with plans to visit the 5th Station (weather permitting), and includes experiences like a cruise on Lake Ashi and a ride on the Hakone Ropeway. The cultural heart of Japan is explored with visits to Kyoto's famous Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and Kinkaku-ji Temple, as well as Nara's Todai-ji Temple, where deer roam freely. The tour also includes Osaka, known for its vibrant culture, and a poignant visit to Hiroshima to see the Peace Memorial Park and Miyajima Island.
Other Key Inclusions
Beyond the main components, the IRCTC package simplifies the travel process by including several other essential services. The Japan tourist visa charges and processing are handled as part of the package, which is a major convenience for travellers. An English-speaking tour guide accompanies the group throughout the journey, providing context and ensuring the itinerary runs smoothly. Additionally, travel insurance is included for passengers up to the age of 70, adding a layer of security to the trip.
