An All-Inclusive Japanese Adventure
For many Indian travellers, Japan represents a fascinating blend of ancient tradition and futuristic technology. Planning such a trip, however, can be a complex task involving multiple bookings for flights, hotels, and internal travel. To simplify this,
the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has introduced a comprehensive 10-day, 9-night escorted tour package. This all-inclusive holiday is designed to offer a seamless experience, bundling return airfare, four-star hotel accommodation, visa charges, all meals, and extensive sightseeing into a single booking, making a trip to the Land of the Rising Sun more accessible than ever.
From Tokyo's Buzz to Fuji's Majesty
The journey begins in Tokyo, Japan's sprawling capital. The itinerary is packed with highlights, including a visit to the historic Asakusa Temple and the bustling Nakamise Shopping Street. Travellers will also get to see Ueno Park and the modern marvels of Odaiba, a high-tech entertainment hub on a man-made island. A key feature of the Tokyo leg is a visit to the immersive digital art museum, TeamLab Planets. The tour then moves towards one of Japan's most iconic symbols: Mount Fuji. Weather permitting, the group will ascend to the 5th Station, a popular viewpoint offering breathtaking vistas. The experience in this region is enhanced with a cruise across Lake Ashi on a pirate ship and a ride on the Hakone Ropeway for panoramic views of the Owakudani valley.
Cultural Heartland and A Historic Reminder
From the natural splendour of the Fuji-Hakone area, the tour travels to Japan's cultural heartland. In Kyoto, the ancient imperial capital, visitors will explore sites like the stunning Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion) and the iconic Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. The itinerary also covers Nara, famous for its friendly, free-roaming deer in Nara Park and the giant Buddha statue at Todai-ji Temple. A significant and solemn part of the trip is the visit to Hiroshima. Here, travellers will pay their respects at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum, a poignant reminder of the city's tragic past and its powerful message of peace. The tour also includes an excursion to the beautiful Miyajima Island to see the famous Itsukushima Shrine.
The Bullet Train Experience
No trip to Japan is complete without a ride on the Shinkansen, or bullet train. This tour incorporates this essential experience, allowing travellers to journey between cities at incredible speeds. The efficiency and punctuality of Japan's rail network are legendary, and experiencing it firsthand is a highlight for many. The package includes bullet train journeys, ensuring that participants get a true taste of modern Japanese transport while covering the significant distances between cities like Osaka, Hiroshima, and Tokyo comfortably and quickly. This inclusion saves valuable travel time, allowing for more time spent on sightseeing.
Package Costs and Inclusions
IRCTC has structured the pricing to accommodate different group sizes. The package starts from approximately ₹3,45,999 per person for triple-sharing accommodation. For those opting for twin-sharing, the cost is around ₹3,49,999 per person, while single occupancy is priced higher. These prices cover a substantial list of services: return economy-class airfare from Delhi, accommodation in four-star hotels, Japan tourist visa fees, daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and all transfers and sightseeing in air-conditioned coaches. Also included are the services of an English-speaking tour guide and travel insurance for passengers up to the age of 70. This bundled approach helps travellers budget effectively, as most major expenses are covered upfront.
