DAY 1: Osaka

Arriving in Osaka, check into your accommodation and enjoy the afternoon and evening at your leisure. Wander through the bustling streets, soak in the city's vibrant energy, and indulge in Osaka’s world-famous cuisine, renowned across the globe. Whether it's takoyaki, okonomiyaki, or kushikatsu, every bite is an experience to remember.

Hotel: ★★★☆☆ Osaka - 3 Star Accommodation

Meals: Breakfast

DAY 2: Osaka ---> Beppu

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel, then enjoy a morning of exploration with an Osaka Hotspot Tour.

Meet your guide and begin with a visit to the Umeda Sky Building’s Floating Garden Observatory, offering spectacular panoramic views of the city. Next, stroll through the vibrant streets of Shinsekai, a retro district packed with local food stalls and restaurants—the perfect place to purchase your own lunch. Continue your journey with a visit to the iconic Osaka Castle, steeped in history and surrounded by lush gardens.

The tour concludes with stops at Kuromon Market, famous for its fresh seafood and street food, and Dotonbori, where you'll enjoy an included river cruise, taking in the dazzling neon-lit scenery.

Afterward, gather your belongings and head to Osaka Port for the Sunflower overnight cruise to Beppu. Sail through the Setouchi Inland Sea, passing by picturesque islands and stunning bridges, all while enjoying the serene beauty of the starlit night sky.

Hotel: ★★★☆☆ Sunflower Overnight Cruise

Meals: Breakfast

DAY 3: Beppu

Wake up to a delightful cruise ship breakfast as you approach your destination—Beppu, the Onsen capital of Japan.

After arrival, we recommend checking into your hotel and enjoying the day at your own pace. Whether you prefer a personalized itinerary curated by our Japan specialists or wish to join one of our many unique tour options, the choice is yours to explore and experience Beppu your way.

Hotel: ★★★☆☆ Beppu - 3 Star Accommodation

Meals: Breakfast

DAY 4: Beppu

After breakfast, enjoy a full day of leisure to explore the charming city of Beppu and the surrounding Oita region.

For a deeper dive into Beppu’s wonders, we recommend an optional guided sightseeing tour, where you'll visit the Beppu Jigoku Onsen Museum, followed by stops at two of Beppu’s famous hot spring "hells"—Umijigoku (Sea Hell) and Oniishi Bozu Jigoku (Mud Hell).

Next, indulge in a unique culinary experience, where you can steam your own food using Beppu’s natural geothermal heat (additional payment required on-site). Afterward, enjoy a leisurely walk through Beppu’s lively streets.

This optional tour ensures you’ll still have the evening free to explore at your own pace.

Hotel: ★★★☆☆ Beppu - 3 Star Accommodation

Meals: Breakfast

DAY 5: Ozu

Today, embark on a journey to Shikoku. After breakfast and checking out of your hotel, make your way to Beppu Port to board the Uwajima Unyu Ferry.

Upon arrival at Yawatahama Port, you’ll be greeted by our specialist guide, who will take you to the castle town of Ozu—a historic riverside gem undergoing an incredible restoration project.

This tranquil town showcases the cultural beauty and charm of historic Japan, offering an authentic experience without the crowds.

During your guided tour, immerse yourself in Ozu’s rich history as you visit Garyu Sanso, a breathtaking cliffside retreat once enjoyed by Japan’s feudal lords. Explore its exquisite gardens and take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape, a true testament to Japan’s timeless elegance.

Hotel: ★★★☆☆ Ozu - 3 Star Accommodation

Meals: Breakfast

DAY 6: Matsuyama - Dogo Onsen

Enjoy a delightful breakfast and take a leisurely morning stroll through the charming streets of Ozu before checking out and departing at 11:00 AM.

Your journey continues to Dogo Onsen, one of Japan’s most historic and iconic hot spring destinations. At its heart lies the famed Dogo Onsen Honkan, a symbol of the city and a true cultural treasure. With a 3,000-year history, it holds the title of Japan’s oldest onsen, offering a timeless experience of relaxation and tradition.

This enchanting town is brimming with character, featuring quaint shopping streets lined with local eateries, fashion boutiques, and souvenir shops. Be sure to stop by the highly recommended mikan juice shop, where you can savor a sensational selection of unique mikan juices on tap.

While in town, consider visiting a local brewery renowned for its award-winning sake and craft beer. Then, unwind in the soothing waters of Dogo Onsen, immersing yourself in its centuries-old tradition of relaxation and rejuvenation.

Hotel: ★★★☆☆ Dogo Onsen - 3 Star Accommodation

Meals: Breakfast

DAY 7: Matsuyama

Today you will transfer to Matsuyama City, the capital of of Ehime and largest city in Shikoku. Sitting on a hill above the city is Matsuyama Castle, One of Japan's few original castles which you can enjoy on the included Matsuyama Castle Walking Tour, the castle offers sweeping panoramas of the city and is particularly beautiful in cherry blossom season.

Matsuyama is home to an abundance of unique cultural experiences such as the opportunity to wear the armor of a samurai. Enjoy the local food such as Matsuyama-Zushi, a sushi bowl made with fish unique to the Seto Inland sea.

Hotel: ★★★☆☆ Dogo Onsen - 3 Star Accommodation

Meals: Breakfast

DAY 8: Takamatsu

This morning, after breakfast, pack your belongings and transfer east to Takamatsu, the capital of Kagawa Prefecture.

Enjoy a scenic journey through Shikoku, arriving in Takamatsu in the afternoon. The rest of the day is yours to explore at your leisure, whether it’s strolling along the waterfront, discovering local culture, or simply relaxing.

Our Japan specialist team is happy to assist with optional experiences and provide guidance to help you make the most of this beautiful seaside region.

Hotel: ★★★☆☆ Takamatsu - 3 Star Accommodation

Meals: Breakfast

DAY 9: Takamatsu

Today, enjoy a full day exploring Kagawa Prefecture, Japan’s smallest prefecture yet brimming with incredible experiences. This is a free day to explore at your own pace, and our Japan specialist team is available to provide guidance or assist with optional activities.

Recommended Experiences:

• Ritsurin Garden – One of Japan’s top national gardens, renowned for its stunning landscapes.
• Takamatsu Castle – A historic site offering fascinating insights into feudal Japan.
• Naoshima (via ferry) – A famous island in the Seto Inland Sea, known worldwide for its contemporary art museums, unique architecture, and sculptures.
• Shikoku Mura Museum – An open-air museum showcasing traditional Shikoku architecture and culture.
• Naruto Whirlpools – Witness the powerful natural phenomenon on a whirlpool sightseeing boat in Awaji Island, Kobe Prefecture.

While in Takamatsu, don’t miss the chance to savor Sanuki Udon, the region’s famous specialty, celebrated for its chewy texture and rich flavors.

Hotel: ★★★☆☆ Takamatsu - 3 Star Accommodation

Meals: Breakfast

DAY 10: Osaka

Today, transfer to Osaka, This is a self arrangement via the JR Bus from Takamatsu to Osaka. Upon arrival enjoy your free time or add one of our unique afternoon/evening tours.

Hotel: ★★★☆☆ Osaka - 3 Star Accommodation

Meals: Breakfast

DAY 11: Osaka

After breakfast at you hotel, We highly recommend taking the opportunity to join the Osaka World Expo.

This is an optional extra - exclusive to this tour, with tickets provided on request. Other amazing experiences are readily available throughout the city of Osaka, ask our Japan specialist team for more details.

Hotel: ★★★☆☆ Osaka - 3 Star Accommodation

Meals: Breakfast

DAY 12: Osaka

Enjoy a free day of exploration in Osaka, a spercial recommendation is an escape into nature at Minoo Park, a serene retreat just a short train ride from Osaka’s city center. Known for its picturesque hiking trails, this lush park features the stunning Minoo Waterfall, a 33-meter cascade surrounded by vibrant greenery in summer and fiery maple leaves in autumn. Along the way, sample the unique local specialty — maple leaf tempura — a crispy treat perfect for the trail.

Or seize the opportunity to join one of our many unique tour options.

Hotel: ★★★☆☆ Osaka - 3 Star Accommodation

Meals: Breakfast

Suggested Plans:

• Universal Studios Japan
• Custom Tokyo Tour - Half Day or Full DayExpert guidance for a tailor made tour based on your interests
• Kaiyukan Aquarium
• Osaka Food Tours
• Mt Koya - World Heritage Site Day Tour
• teamLab Osaka Botanical Gardens
• Keisoku-ji Temple and Metasequoia Trees 1 Day Bus Tour
• Kogenji Temple 1 Day Bus Tour
• Kimono & Tea Ceremony Experiences
• Food / Cooking Experiences
  and much more!

DAY 13. Flight / Next Step of your Journey

Following breakfast at your hotel, enjoy this final day venturing the sights of Osaka before your next plans be it a flight home or even more experiences around Japan.

For travelers wishing for more our Japan Specialists can assist with personalized experiences, such as short extension packages and custom made plans.

A return transfer can be added to comfortably take you to Kansai Airport or take the simple Journey via the Airport Express Train.

Meals: Breakfast