An Overview of the Journey
IRCTC's package, officially named 'Japan – The Golden Route with Hiroshima', is an 8-night, 9-day group tour departing from Mumbai. This curated experience is designed to be hassle-free, bundling flights, accommodation, and sightseeing into a single booking.
The tour is scheduled to run from October 25 to November 3, 2026. The cost per person starts at approximately ₹3,36,200 for twin-sharing accommodation. This price point aims to provide a comprehensive tour covering some of Japan's most iconic and historically significant sites without the stress of individual planning.
Stop 1: Tokyo, the Dazzling Capital
The journey begins in Japan’s bustling capital, Tokyo. The itinerary offers a blend of the city's modern marvels and traditional roots. Travellers will visit the ancient and revered Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa and see the impressive Tokyo Skytree. The tour also includes a trip to the immersive digital art museum, teamLab Planets, and a walk across the world-famous Shibuya Crossing, known for its incredible scramble of pedestrians. A visit to the vibrant electronics district of Akihabara is also part of the Tokyo experience, showcasing the city's pop culture and technological edge.
Stop 2: Mt. Fuji & Hakone's Scenic Beauty
No trip to Japan is complete without witnessing the majesty of Mount Fuji. Weather permitting, the tour takes you to the Mount Fuji 5th Station, a popular viewing spot on the mountain's slopes. The journey continues through the scenic region of Hakone. Here, travellers can enjoy a ride on the Hakone Ropeway for panoramic views of the surrounding volcanic valley and take a cruise across the serene Lake Ashi. This part of the itinerary provides a stunning contrast to Tokyo's urban energy, highlighting Japan's natural splendor.
Stop 3: Hiroshima, a Journey of Remembrance
A significant and poignant part of the tour is the visit to Hiroshima. A ride on the famous Shinkansen bullet train takes travellers to this city, which has risen from its tragic past to become a symbol of peace and resilience. The itinerary includes a visit to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum, a place for reflection on the events of 1945. The tour also features a trip to the nearby Miyajima Island, famous for the iconic Itsukushima Shrine and its 'floating' torii gate, offering a moment of serene beauty.
Stop 4: Kyoto, the Heart of Tradition
Next, the tour moves to Kyoto, Japan's former imperial capital and the cultural heart of the nation. This city is renowned for its beautiful temples, traditional gardens, and geisha districts. The itinerary includes a walk through the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a truly magical experience. Visitors will also explore the Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates that wind up a mountainside, creating an unforgettable pathway. Kyoto offers a deep dive into the country's rich heritage.
Stop 5 & 6: Nara and Osaka
The tour combines visits to two more fascinating cities. In Nara, Japan's first permanent capital, travellers will visit Nara Park, where hundreds of friendly, sacred deer roam freely. A key highlight here is the Todai-ji Temple, a massive wooden structure that houses a giant bronze statue of Buddha. The journey then proceeds to Osaka, a vibrant city known for its modern architecture and incredible food scene. While the specific Osaka itinerary includes attractions like Osaka Castle Park, the city itself serves as a lively hub to experience Japan's urban culinary culture before concluding the main leg of the tour.
What the Package Includes
For the convenience of travellers, the IRCTC package is largely all-inclusive. The price covers return economy class airfare from Mumbai on Air India, as well as the necessary Japan tourist visa fees. Accommodation is provided in 3-star hotels, and the package includes daily breakfast along with Indian-style lunches and dinners. All sightseeing, entry tickets for monuments, a ride on the Shinkansen bullet train, and transfers in air-conditioned coaches are part of the deal. The services of an IRCTC tour manager and a local English-speaking guide are also included to ensure a smooth experience.
Key Exclusions to Note
While the package is comprehensive, travellers should be aware of a few extra costs. The price does not include a mandatory 2% Tax Collected at Source (TCS), which is an additional charge on the package cost. Any expenses of a personal nature, such as laundry, drinks, or shopping, are not included. Furthermore, while most meals are covered, any food or beverages ordered outside of the planned group meals will be at the traveller's own expense. It is always wise to budget for some extra personal spending.
