An Overview of the Tour
IRCTC Tourism is offering a guided group tour designed for travellers who prefer a structured and all-inclusive international holiday. Several packages have been announced, but a key offering is the 10-day, 9-night 'Japan Ex Delhi' tour. This package is crafted
to give first-time visitors a comprehensive taste of Japan without the stress of planning logistics like transport and accommodation. The tour covers a popular route that includes some of Japan's most famous cities and landmarks, such as Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and Hiroshima. The journey is scheduled to depart from Delhi on September 6, 2026, and return on September 15, 2026. For travellers based in other parts of India, IRCTC has also listed options like the 'Japan – The Golden Route with Hiroshima' tour departing from Mumbai and Ahmedabad in October.
Pricing and Inclusions
The 'Japan Ex Delhi' package price starts at ₹3,45,999 per person for triple sharing. For twin sharing, the cost is ₹3,49,999, and for single occupancy, it is ₹4,73,999. There are also prices for children travelling with adults. A significant advantage of this package is its all-inclusive nature. The cost covers return economy-class airfare on carriers like All Nippon Airways, accommodation in four-star hotels, and Japan tourist visa charges. It also includes daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner, all airport transfers, and sightseeing in air-conditioned coaches. Furthermore, the services of an English-speaking tour guide and travel insurance for passengers under 70 years of age are part of the deal.
The Detailed Itinerary
The tour offers a packed itinerary that balances modern marvels with cultural heritage. The journey begins in Tokyo, Japan's bustling capital. Here, travellers will visit landmarks like the historic Asakusa Temple, browse the stalls at Nakamise Shopping Street, and experience the immersive digital art at TeamLab Planets. The tour then moves towards the iconic Mount Fuji, with a planned visit to the Fifth Station, weather permitting. Other scenic experiences in this region include a cruise on Lake Ashi via the Hakone Pirate Ship and a ride on the Hakone Ropeway over the Owakudani Valley. A major highlight for many will be the ride on the Shinkansen, Japan's famous bullet train. The itinerary also includes Kyoto, where visitors will see the stunning Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion) and the thousands of red gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha. In Nara, travellers will encounter the famous freely roaming deer at Nara Park and visit the grand Todai-ji Temple. The tour also covers Osaka, known for Osaka Castle, and concludes with a poignant visit to Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Park.
What's Not Included?
While the package is largely all-inclusive, prospective travellers should be aware of potential extra costs. Any meals or services not explicitly mentioned in the itinerary are not covered. Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, and shopping are also excluded. While the tour provides a comprehensive sightseeing schedule, any optional tours or activities undertaken during free time will be at the traveller's own expense. It's also important to note that the flight schedules are indicative and subject to change by the airline, which could potentially lead to minor modifications in the itinerary. For tours departing from certain cities like Mumbai, an additional 2% TCS (Tax Collected at Source) fee may be applicable on top of the package price.
Booking and Key Information
Bookings for the Japan tour can be made through the official IRCTC Tourism website. It is advisable for interested parties to thoroughly review all terms and conditions, including the cancellation policy and payment schedule, before finalising their booking. Travellers should ensure their passports have sufficient validity for international travel. While the package includes visa charges and assistance, the responsibility of providing correct documentation rests with the traveller. Given the fixed departure dates and limited seats, booking well in advance is recommended. The structured nature of a guided tour offers immense convenience, but it also means less flexibility for spontaneous exploration compared to independent travel.
