The All-Inclusive Promise
For many Indian travellers, the appeal of Japan is immense, but the logistical hurdles—from visa applications to navigating a complex transport system and language barrier—can be daunting. The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) aims
to solve this with its 'Japan Ex Delhi' escorted tour package. This 10-day, 9-night journey is designed as a hassle-free holiday, bundling major costs and arrangements into a single booking. The core appeal is convenience; it's a trip for those who prefer a structured itinerary over spontaneous travel, ensuring they see the highlights without the stress of independent planning. The package handles the heavy lifting, making a trip to the 'Land of the Rising Sun' more accessible than ever.
A Whirlwind Tour of Japan's Icons
The tour is a comprehensive journey through seven of Japan's most significant cities and regions: Tokyo, Hakone, Hamamatsu, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and Hiroshima. The itinerary is crafted to provide a blend of modern cityscapes, cultural heritage, and poignant history. Travellers begin in Tokyo, exploring landmarks like the ancient Asakusa Temple, the bustling Nakamise Shopping Street, and the immersive digital art museum TeamLab Planets. The trip then offers a chance to see the iconic Mount Fuji from its 5th Station, weather permitting, followed by a scenic cruise on Lake Ashi and a ride on the Hakone Ropeway.
From Bullet Trains to Sacred Deer
A major highlight of the journey is the experience of riding the Shinkansen, Japan's world-renowned bullet train, known for its incredible speed and punctuality. This connects travellers to the cultural heart of the country. In Kyoto, the former imperial capital, the tour visits historic sites like the golden Kinkaku-ji Temple and the mesmerizing Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. The itinerary also includes a day trip to Nara, famous for the Todai-ji Temple, which houses a giant bronze Buddha, and its friendly, free-roaming deer that are considered sacred messengers.
Modernity and Somber Reflection
The latter part of the tour shifts to the vibrant city of Osaka, known for its dynamic food culture and the historic Osaka Castle. From there, the journey takes a reflective turn with a visit to Hiroshima. Here, travellers visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, a space dedicated to the memory of the atomic bombing and a symbol of peace. This part of the tour provides a sobering yet crucial understanding of Japan's modern history before the group returns to Tokyo for their flight back to Delhi.
What's Included and What It Costs
The IRCTC package is designed to be largely all-inclusive. The cost covers return economy-class airfare from Delhi on All Nippon Airways (ANA), Japan tourist visa charges, and accommodation in four-star hotels. It also includes daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner, all airport transfers, and sightseeing in an air-conditioned coach with an English-speaking guide. Travel insurance is also included for passengers under the age of 70. The package price for a September 2026 departure starts at ₹3,45,999 per person on a triple-sharing basis, with options for twin-sharing and single occupancy at higher rates.
