All Inclusive Trip
Awesome Tour Guide
Visit Ancient Temples + Modern Cities
Unique Stays
All Transport Included
Osaka + Kyoto
Flashpacker Mates
19 Meals Included
Discover the vibrant culture and timeless beauty of Japan on an unforgettable 17-day backpacker tour. Alongside a small group of fellow travellers and an awesome tour leader, you'll explore the very best of what Japan has to offer, from serene ancient temples to bustling, colourful cities. Jet off on the world-famous bullet train across breathtaking destinations like Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Hiroshima, Nara, Hakone, and more!
Whether you’re cruising past Mount Fuji on a cable car, learning Samurai skills, or spending the night in a 1,000-year-old Buddhist temple, each day in Japan brings a thrilling new adventure. Connect with fellow travellers as you fully immerse yourself in the heart of Japanese culture, from its cutting-edge innovation to its awe-inspiring ancient history.
Please read our terms, conditions and cancellation policies before booking your East Coast itinerary package.
There is no bad time to visit Japan!
The country is known for its four distinct seasons. While winter (Dec-Mar) brings cold weather, snow-capped mountains, and the famous Snow Monkeys, spring (Apr-Jun) is famous for cherry blossoms and vibrant colors. Summer (Jun-Aug) is hot and humid, ideal for outdoor activities, and autumn (Sep-Nov) showcases the country's stunning foliage, known as "koyo." No matter when you visit, Japan is beautiful year-round!
It's important to understand what this tour involves in order to decide whether or not this is for you.
Firstly, the accommodation on this tour mostly features quad-share accommodation in modern hostels, a traditional Japanese inn, and a 1,000-year-old temple. Since accommodation in Japan is typically small and pricey, Intro book their guests into the best, unique accommodation options to offer a great experience at an affordable price. All of the hostels are clean, cosy, and stylish, with bunk beds.
Secondly, this tour primarily uses public transport to get around Japan - including world-class bullet trains - in order to be as efficient, cost-effective, and eco-friendly as possible.
Finally, be aware that there is plenty of walking involved in this tour. While you don't need to be super fit for this tour, you can expect to walk about 10,000 to 20,000 steps per day, so a reasonable fitness level and comfy shoes are key to enjoying this tour.
It’s best to arrive in Tokyo on the actual start date of your tour, if possible. There will be no activities planned for day one of the tour, but you and your travel group will meet in the evening for a welcome dinner.
That being said, sometimes people prefer to arrive a day or two before the tour begins so that they can do their own exploring of the city before the fun begins.
For all important information about arriving into Japan, your airport transfer, and meeting points, it is best to download the INTRO Travel app for iPhone or Google.
If you are arriving to Tokyo before the tour start date and would like help organising accommodation for those nights, Intro are happy to book something suitable for you, as long as you get in touch with them ASAP through the Intro app or one of our booking agents.
Those looking for post-tour accommodation once 17 days of fun comes to an end can simply let their group leader know when you arrive. They will be happy to book accommodation for you.
This tour does not include an airport transfer. To book a transfer from the airport to your first destination, you'll need to log in to the INTRO Travel app (which you can download here for iPhone or Google).
There, you can find the tour group's recommended transfer options that will get you to your accommodation. Once you have booked your flights to Tokyo, log it in the 'Manage My Booking' section of the INTRO Travel website so that your travel group know when to expect you.
Return trasnfers are not included in your tour either. However, if you speak to your group leader, they'll be happy to help arrange this for you, as well as any further travel booking you might need.
Travel insurance is compulsory for this trips. You’ll need to show proof of your policy to your group leader upon arrival (on your phone or printed).
Visa requirements will vary depending on the country you are travelling to and your nationality. It is entirely your responsibility to check how visa and entry requirements will affect you. Neither your tour company, nor your travel agent can apply for your visa for you.
All of your activities, transport, accommodation and some meals are covered in cost of the tour. You will therefore only need your own spending money for extra meals, drinks, shopping and onward travel.
For information on how much spending money you'll need, you can download the INTRO Travel app for iPhone or Google.
It is recommended that you use a bank card local to your home country that has low or no transaction fees. Many smaller businesses in Japan are cash only, so it’s a good idea to have a little bit with you for your arrival.