Japan

Temples, Traditions, and Modern Japan
April 10 to 23, 2027
Through Cities, Shrines and Countryside

Experience Japan from the energy of Tokyo to the timeless streets of Kyoto, travelling across the country by Shinkansen bullet train and private coach. Begin in Tokyo, where modern skylines rise above historic districts, and explore nearby Kamakura and Nikko, home to forested shrines and dramatic waterfalls.

Continue to Kyoto, the cultural heart of the country, where temple complexes, traditional streets, and regional cuisine shape each day. Hands-on experiences, including a Tea Ceremony and Cooking Class, offer insight into daily life, while time in the countryside of Miyama provides a glimpse of rural Japan.

Travel onward to Hiroshima and Miyajima Island, where reflection and resilience form part of the journey, before continuing to Hakone for views of Mt. Fuji and Lake Ashi. Blending iconic landmarks with regional depth, this comprehensive tour offers a balanced and immersive introduction to Japan.

Quick Facts

Travel Dates

April 10 to 23, 2027

Meals

28 + In-Flight

Max Guests

20

Activity Level

Moderately Active

Exclusive Highlights

  • Explore Japan from Tokyo to Hiroshima, travelling seamlessly between regions aboard the high-speed Shinkansen bullet train.
  • Experience Kyoto beyond the surface with a traditional tea ceremony, a hands-on cooking class, and time walking its historic temple districts.
  • Visit Hiroshima and Miyajima Island, including the Peace Memorial Park and the iconic torii gates of Itsukushima Shrine.
  • Discover rural Japan in Miyama and Nikko, where preserved villages, waterfalls, and forested shrines offer a quieter contrast to the cities.

What's Taken Care Of

  • Roundtrip economy class airfare from select Atlantic Canadian cities direct to Tokyo
  • Transportation throughout by private chartered motorcoach
  • Bullet train travel between Utsunomiya→Tokyo, Tokyo→Kyoto, Kyoto→Hiroshima, Hiroshima→Nagoya, and Nagoya→Mishima
  • 28 meals: daily breakfast, 9 lunches, 7 dinners
  • Included cultural experiences: Tea Ceremony, Sake Brewery visit and tasting, Traditional Cooking Class, and Miyama village activity
  • Scenic transportation experiences including Kyoto Trolley Train, Miyajima ferry and speed boat, and Lake Ashi cruise
  • Admission to featured temples, shrines, historic sites, and museums as outlined
  • Local English speaking guide
  • All taxes
  • Hosted by Target Tours

Itinerary At A Glance

April 10, 2027

Depart on your flight from select Atlantic Canadian cities to Tokyo, Japan.

April 11, 2027

Arrive in Tokyo where you will gather your luggage and transfer to the hotel to check in. Enjoy a welcome dinner this evening

April 12, 2027

Meet a local English-speaking guide this morning for a full-day tour of Tokyo. Begin with a visit to Tokyo Tower, rising high above the city skyline, offering sweeping views across the capital. Continue to Tsukiji Outer Market, where narrow lanes are lined with food stalls, specialty shops, and local vendors. Travel onward to the historic Asakusa district where lunch is included at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, participate in a traditional Tea Ceremony Experience, followed by a walk along Nakamise Shopping Street leading to Senso-ji Temple, the oldest temple in Tokyo. Free time is provided to explore the area before returning to your hotel.

April 13, 2027

Depart Tokyo for an excursion to Kamakura. Visit Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, an important Shinto shrine with deep historical significance. Continue to Komachi-dori Street, a lively pedestrian area lined with shops and cafes. Lunch is included at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, visit Kotoku-in Temple, home to the Great Buddha. On your return to Tokyo, stop in the Ginza district for a brief guided walk and free time before returning to your hotel.

April 14, 2027

After checking out of the hotel, your main luggage will be arranged for shipment to Kyoto. An overnight bag is required for your stay in Nikko. Depart with your guide for the Nikko region. After a scenic drive, arrive in the area known for its natural setting. Visit Kegon Falls, one of Nikko’s most recognized waterfalls, set within Nikko National Park. Lunch is included at a local restaurant near Lake Chuzenji. In the afternoon, visit Nikko Toshogu Shrine, part of the UNESCO-listed Shrines and Temples of Nikko. Continue to your ryokan in Kinugawa Onsen and check in. A traditional Japanese dinner is included this evening.

April 15, 2027

After checking out of your ryokan, travel toward the station. En route, stop at a Sake Brewery for a guided visit and tasting. Lunch is included at a local restaurant before arriving at JR Utsunomiya Station. Board the JR Shinkansen (Bullet Train) Yamabiko No. 54 to Tokyo, where you will transfer to the JR Shinkansen Nozomi No. 75 to Kyoto. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and check in.

April 16, 2027

Meet your guide and depart by for a full day exploring Kyoto. Visit Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion) and continue to Ryoanji Temple, known for its rock garden. Enjoy a brief walking orientation through Nishiki Market and Teramachi Shopping Street, followed by free time for lunch and independent exploration. In the afternoon, visit Kiyomizudera Temple and walk through the historic streets of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka in the Higashiyama district. This evening, enjoy Shabu-Shabu dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a Maiko performance and interaction (Oasobi).

April 17, 2027

Depart for another full day of sightseeing in Kyoto. Travel to Trolley Kameoka Station and board the Torokko (Trolley) Train to Arashiyama. Walk through the Bamboo Grove Path and visit Tenryuji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Lunch is included at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, see Togetsukyo Bridge, participate in a Traditional Japanese Cooking Class, and visit Nijo-jo Castle, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site

April 18, 2027

Depart with your guide for a full day excursion to Fushimi and Nara. Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine, known for its torii gates. Lunch is included at a local restaurant. Continue to Nara to visit Kasuga Taisha Shrine, walk through Nara Park, and visit Todaiji Temple. Return to Kyoto this evening. Dinner is included at a local restaurant.

April 19, 2027

Travel north of Kyoto for a countryside experience in Miyama. With a local guide, visit Miyama Kayabuki no Sato, a preserved thatched village. Lunch is included at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, participate in a Mochi Pounding Experience. Return to Kyoto later this afternoon.

April 20, 2027

After checking out, your luggage will be shipped to your ryokan in Izu Nagaoka. An overnight bag is required for Hiroshima. Transfer to JR Kyoto Station and board the JR Shinkansen Nozomi No. 11 to Hiroshima. Lunch is included upon arrival. Continue by local train and ferry to Miyajima Island, where you will visit Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Travel by speed boat to Peace Memorial Park and walk to your hotel. Dinner is included this evening.

April 21, 2027

This morning, walk to Peace Memorial Park and visit the Peace Memorial Museum. Transfer to the station and board the JR Shinkansen Nozomi No. 94 to Nagoya, then transfer to the JR Shinkansen Hikari No. 510 to Mishima. Continue to your ryokan in Izu Nagaoka, where your luggage will be waiting. A traditional Japanese dinner is included this evening.

April 22, 2027

Depart for Hakone. Visit Mishima Sky Walk, where weather permitting, views of Mt. Fuji may be visible. Continue to Lake Ashi for a Hakone Sightseeing Cruise, followed by a stop at Hakone Shrine. Lunch is included at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, visit Owakudani before returning to Tokyo. This evening, enjoy a Farewell Dinner at your hotel.

April 23, 2027

Transfer to the airport for your return flight home.

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Pricing

Double Occupancy: $13,899
Single Occupancy: $16,575

Prices are per person in Canadian Dollars. All taxes included.

Prices subject to change based on currency exchange, local taxes, and airfare.

Payment Schedule

  • Initial Deposit: $1000 per person at time of booking
  • Second Payment: $2500 per person on August 13, 2026
  • Third Payment: $2500 per person on October 13, 2026
  • Final Payment due December 11, 2026

Ready to turn your travel dreams into reality?

Booking takes just a few minutes and your journey is one step closer. Click the button below or call 1-877-214-5367 to get started.

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What You Can Expect

Travel Made Simple

Let us handle all the details, so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey.

15+ Years of Excellence

Enjoy peace of mind as you join the thousands of satisfied travelers who've experienced our renowned expertise and warm hospitality.

Expertly Crafted Itineraries

Enjoy a vacation that takes you to the heart of each destination, with a perfect balance of guided activities and free time to explore.

Authentic Local Experiences

Connect with the people, places, and traditions that make each destination unforgettable.

Fast, Friendly, and Personal Service

We treat your travel like it’s our own—with quick answers, friendly help, and care in every detail.

Worry-Free Travel

Enjoy peace of mind with dedicated Tour Hosts ensuring your comfort and security every step of the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to the questions we hear most often from travelers, so you can plan with confidence.

How do I book?

You can book in a couple of easy ways:

  • By phone: Call our office at 1-877-214-5367 and chat with one of our team members. We’re here Monday–Thursday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, and Friday until 4:00 pm.

  • Online: Use our user-friendly booking portal right on the vacation page — available 24/7. Powered by Tourseta, it lets you pay your deposit securely, manage your booking, make payments, and complete forms all in one place.

Once your booking is complete and your deposit is received, you’ll get a receipt from Tourseta. Afterward, our team will be in touch with highlights of your tour, important payment dates, and a few helpful tips to get you ready. About 2–3 weeks before departure, we’ll send you your final itinerary with everything you need to know. And if a question pops up along the way, we’re only a phone call or email away during office hours. We’re here for you every step of the journey.

Your tour price does not include travel protection. We strongly recommend coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and trip interruption.

For international tours, if you don’t purchase protection through Target Tours, you’ll need to provide proof of alternate coverage. By joining a tour without sufficient emergency medical insurance, you agree not to hold Target Tours responsible for costs that may arise.

You can read about our Travel Protection policies here. For questions or a quote, call us at 1-877-214-5367 — we’ll be happy to help.

Initial deposits and required subsequent installments are non-refundable, and once your final payment is made the tour becomes fully non-refundable. We strongly recommend purchasing Travel Insurance Protection to safeguard your investment. For international tours, if you don’t purchase protection through Target Tours, you’ll need to provide proof of alternate coverage.

If one or more guests in a room cancel, the remaining roommate(s) will be responsible for the adjusted rate based on the new occupancy.

In the case that Target Tours cancels a trip due to lack of interest, you may choose a full refund or transfer your funds to another tour (subject to any supplier cancellation fees). You’ll always be notified in advance of final payment if a tour is at risk of cancellation.

For full details, please see our Policies Page.

Yes, a valid passport is required for all tours outside of Canada. For most international, your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your tour’s departure date.

It is each traveller’s responsibility to ensure they have the proper documents and to keep them safe while travelling. Without a valid passport, you may be unable to join or complete your tour.

Vaccination requirements vary depending on your destination and personal health. We recommend reviewing your travel plans with a healthcare professional to determine what’s right for you.

For convenience, Target Tours has partnered with the Virtual Travel Clinic, where you can easily book an online consultation and receive personalized guidance on recommended vaccinations and medications for your trip.

Your emergency contact should be someone who can step in if you or your travel companion need to leave the tour unexpectedly, most often due to a medical situation. Ideally, this person should:

  • Know they’ve been chosen as your contact.

  • Have a copy of your itinerary, passport, and insurance details.

  • Be willing and able to travel if necessary and assist in getting you home.

  • Be prepared to speak with your insurance company on your behalf if you’re unable.

If you need to update your emergency contact, please let Target Tours know at least 30 days before departure.

Moderately Active
A tour itinerary that’s a perfect blend of pre-planned excursions with free time to explore destinations at your own discretion. Our Moderately Active tours can include some, or all, of the following: flights in excess of 5 hours and/or overnight, longer days including guided tours, extended walking on uneven terrains like cobblestones streets/sidewalks, steep hills and multiple sets of stairs with or without handrails, lifting and carrying your own luggage for longer distances at hotels, airports & cruise terminals, some late nights and early morning starts, and an itinerary that explores 4 cities or more, where buses are not permitted.

Still have questions? Explore our full Frequently Asked Questions page for more details, or reach out to us anytime. We’re always happy to help!

Have a Question About This Trip?

Fill out the form below to ask us a question. For immediate assistance please call 1-877-214-5367.

Important Information

Before booking, please take a moment to review our Policies Page. It includes details on booking and cancellation, travel documents, age restrictions, special requests, and more.

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Justin MacPhee - Tour Operations Manager

“I am privileged to have the opportunity to help make other’s travel dreams a reality.”

Justin was originally part of the Target Tours team as a Tour Coordinator/Planner from 2014 to 2020 and, after a brief hiatus, he rejoined the team in 2024 as Tour Operations Manager. Justin graduated from UPEI with a major in Business Administration and a minor in Psychology and brings with him many years of experience in customer and client service. He has a love for travel, planning, and working to ensure details are taken care of.
Justin was born and raised in Montague but now resides in Charlottetown with his wife Miranda. In his spare time, Justin enjoys spending time with family and being outdoors by the water.

Lynn Dunphy

“There are many things in life to be thankful for, being able to live our dream is one that I hold close to my heart. We’ve been blessed with wonderful family and friends and the opportunity to see what lies beyond our front door.”

Lynn is the financial wizard for Target Tours. A born and bred islander, she is a Holland College graduate with Records of Achievement in Accounting Technology and Programmer/Analyst.
While Lynn keeps the finances for Target Tours in check, she also enjoys teaming up with John to host group tours on an assortment of fun-filled adventures. She really enjoys getting to know the Target Tours passengers and ensuring everyone is having a wonderful time.
As a career bookkeeper, her role in the beginning with Target Tours was a weekend job. She has spent over 35 years doing books in public and private business. In 2017 her dream became a reality, and she joined John full time in the business. This is where she belonged.
When Lynn is not adding numbers, she enjoys her golf outings, fitness, cooking and reading.
Lynn and John have two beautiful daughters, Sarah and Lindsay, son-in-law, Ben and their treasured granddaughter, Lily.

John Dunphy

“For me, watching the smiles on the faces of our passengers when they see their travel dreams come true is the biggest I am in the travel business.”

John has spent over three decades in the travel industry starting at The Travel Store (Island Travel). In 2009, he and Lynn created Target Tours from the basement of the family home in Morell, PE and built on his passion for motor coaches.

From simple day tours on PEI to more extensive tours to Europe, attention to detail and
organization combine for a memorable travel experience. John will act as Tour Director
for some of his favourite tours such as river cruises and Europe.

As well as planning tours, John sometimes travels with the group as a Tour Host making
sure all the little details are being taken care of.

John and Lynn have two beautiful daughters, Sarah and Lindsay, son-in-law, Ben and
their treasured granddaughter, Lily.