Details
MAIN FEATURES OF THE TOUR
Step beyond the usual tourist trail and embark on a captivating journey through Japan’s Setouchi Inland Sea and the cultural treasures of Ehime Prefecture. This exclusive package invites travelers to explore Japan’s hidden gems, from the beautifully restored castle town of Ozu and the historic Dogo Onsen to the artistic landscapes of Takamatsu and the steaming hot springs of Beppu. As a special highlight, seize the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to attend the 2025 World Expo in Osaka, held from April 13th to October 13th, 2025.
Sail across the Setouchi Inland Sea and discover the charm of Ozu, a town undergoing an incredible restoration project that brings its Edo-period streets and Ozu Castle back to life. In Matsuyama, immerse yourself in history at Matsuyama Castle, relax in the famous Dogo Onsen, and indulge in Ehime’s prized mikan citrus.
Venture into the soothing hot spring town of Beppu, where the surreal Jigoku Onsen Hell Tour showcases some of Japan’s most fascinating geothermal wonders. In Takamatsu, admire the meticulously landscaped Ritsurin Garden and explore the artistic culture of Shikoku’s island region.
This one-of-a-kind package offers a rare opportunity to experience Japan’s cultural heritage, natural beauty, and world-famous hospitality at a relaxed pace—ensuring a journey filled with history, local flavors, and unforgettable discoveries.
Osaka World Expo 2025
Experience the 2025 World Expo in Osaka with Travel Japan!
Get ready for an unforgettable journey to the heart of Japan as Osaka hosts the highly anticipated 2025 World Expo! At Travel Japan, our specialist team is here to assist you with exclusive Expo tickets, ensuring you are part of this incredible global event.
GROUP TOUR, MINIMUM 2PAX, PRICE PER PERSON
Single Traveller Options Available pending payment of supplement fee, please enquire for further details.
REDUCED PACKAGE PRICES
This package will have a reduced per person cost with more travellers joining as a group.
Please note that this package must be booked at least 40 days before the departure date.
Day 1 Osaka
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
DAY 2: Osaka ---> Beppu
Start your day with breakfast at the hotel, then enjoy a morning of free leisure or enjoy our recommended day of exploration with an Optional 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 - Oita Prefecture
DAY 3: Beppu
Wake up to a delightful cruise ship breakfast (included) as you approach your destination—Beppu, the Onsen capital of Japan.
After arrival, Your included Transfer will meet you at the port to drop off luggage at your hotel accommodation.
If you would like to have breakfast at the hotel this morning, you can enjoy a meal at the hotel.(this would be an additional cost)
AT 9:00am, our specialist guide will take you on an amazing tour of Beppu to enjoy 'Jigoku Onsen Tour', known as Hells Onsen witness the amazing sites of this Natural Onsen City touring the stunning sites.
We have arranged a unique steamed lunch with Vegetarian/Vegan Options available, indulge in a unique culinary experience, where you can steam your own food using Beppu’s natural geothermal heat
Enjoy some free time after lunch to explore at your pace 0or join an optional guided Kannawa Walking Tour through the city of Beppu.
In the afternoon, we have included a visit to World reknown Hyotan Onsen, the only Michelin 3-Star Hot Spring in Japan.
Hotel: ★★★☆☆ Beppu - AMANEK Beppu YULA-RE, or similar
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Day 4 Beppu
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 - Minami Beppu walking Tour with our incredible partner guides or an Optional Calligraphy Lesson and Bamboo Lantern Workshop experience.
Afterward, enjoy a leisurely walk through Beppu’s lively streets.
These optional tour ensures you’ll still have the evening free to explore at your own pace.
Hotel: ★★★☆☆ Beppu - AMANEK Beppu YULA-RE, or similar
Meals: Breakfast
Day 5 Ozu - Ehime Prefecture
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.
Your accommodation will be at Nipponia Hotel, a magnificent, restored Japanese complex with the feel of living in a traditional Japanese home. Some rooms come with private garden and viewing of this beautiful town.
Hotel: ★★★★☆ Ozu - NIPPONIA HOTEL OZU
Meals: Breakfast
Day 6 Matsuyama
DAY 6: Matsuyama
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.
Today you will transfer to Matsuyama City, the capital of of Ehime and largest city in Shikoku. A transfer to Okaido Station near Mstusyama Castle is Included. 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 Hakuro, or Similar
Meals: Breakfast
Day 7 Dogo Onsen
DAY 7: Dogo Onsen
Your journey continues in 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 Hakuro, or Similar
Meals: Breakfast
Day 8 Takamatsu - Kagawa Prefecture
DAY 8: Takamatsu
This morning, after breakfast, pack your belongings and transfer east to Takamatsu, the capital of Kagawa Prefecture. A special Bocchan Express Highway Bus has been arranged for a smooth journey to Takamatsu.
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.
Optional Tour: Ritsurin Garden and Takamatsu Castle can be arranged today, we highly recommend these experiences to see one of Japans most reknown Gardens along with one of Japans only Castle built along a waterfront featuring salt water moats.
Hotel: ★★★★☆ JR Hotel Clement Takamatsu, or Similar
Meals: Breakfast
Day 9 Takamatsu
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: ★★★★☆ JR Hotel Clement Takamatsu, or Similar
Meals: Breakfast
Day 10 Takamatsu -- Osaka
DAY 10: Osaka
Today, transfer to Osaka, with our included Takamatsu Sanuki-Osaka Express Bus. Enjoy a scenic journey across Awajima, the amazing bridges and Island, seaside views before arriving in Osaka. Upon arrival enjoy your free time or add one of our unique afternoon/evening tours.
Hotel: ★★★☆☆ Candeo Hotel Osaka Namba, or Similar
Meals: Breakfast
Day 11 Osaka
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: ★★★☆☆ Candeo Hotel Osaka Namba, or Similar
Meals: Breakfast
Day 12 Osaka
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: ★★★☆☆ Candeo Hotel Osaka Namba, or Similar
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 Return Journey or Next Part of your Journey
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
- Hotels: Osaka (4 nights) Beppu (2 nights) Ozu (1 night), Matsuyama / Dogo Onsen (2 nights), Takamatsu (2 nights)
- Meals: 12 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch
- Guide: A licensed English-speaking guide is included on day tours only.
- Transportation:
- Sunflower Cruise: Overnight Osaka to Beppu
- Shinkansen Tickets / Rapid Train Tickets (as per details)
- Express Highway Bus Transfers to Takamatsu, Osaka (as per details)
HOTEL Standard (western-style rooms)
A selection of 3-star and 4-star hotel accommodations are available, our reservations team aim to acquire the best of these for each customer to meet their needs.
This can be upgraded on request at an additional cost.
Feature Hotel
NIPPONIA HOTEL - OZU CASTLE TOWN
Step Back in Time and Stay in a Living Castle Town
Discover the charm and elegance of Japan’s past with a stay at NIPPONIA HOTEL – Ozu Castle Town, a beautifully restored heritage hotel located in the heart of Ozu, a historic riverside city in Ehime Prefecture, Shikoku.
This unique accommodation project transforms traditional merchant homes, samurai residences, and historic buildings into luxurious guest rooms spread across the town—offering guests the extraordinary experience of “living within history.”
Stay in Restored Heritage Homes:
Each room is housed in an authentic building from the Edo to early Showa period, carefully renovated to preserve its historical charm while offering modern comforts.
Immersive Cultural Experience:
Feel like a resident of Ozu as you stroll the stone-paved streets, visit the scenic Ozu Castle, and experience daily life in a beautifully preserved townscape.
Ozu Castle Private Stay Option:
Upgrade your experience with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to stay inside Ozu Castle itself – a rare and regal experience unique to this location.
Fine Dining with Local Ingredients:
Savor exquisite French-inspired Japanese cuisine crafted with locally sourced ingredients from the fertile lands and waters of Ehime.
Sustainable Tourism Concept:
Your stay contributes to the revitalization of the local community and preservation of cultural heritage.
Explore the Beauty of the Setouchi Inland Sea, Historic Ehime & the 2025 Osaka World Expo
Embark on an unforgettable 12-night journey through Japan’s stunning Setouchi region, where timeless history, breathtaking landscapes, and exquisite regional flavors await. This exclusive itinerary offers deeper exploration of each destination, ensuring a more immersive experience compared to standard tours.
🌆 Begin Your Journey in Osaka – Arrive in Japan’s vibrant culinary and cultural hub with an evening to explore at leisure. The next morning, enjoy a Hotspot Guided Tour of Osaka’s must-see sights before boarding the overnight Sunflower Cruise to Beppu, a unique travel experience across the Setouchi Inland Sea.
🌊 Sail Across the Setouchi Sea – Embark on a relaxing overnight cruise to Beppu, setting the stage for an exploration of Japan’s legendary hot spring town. Discover the surreal Jigoku Onsen Hell Tour or enjoy leisurely self-guided discoveries.
🏯 The Hidden Gem of Ozu – Step into the beautifully restored Ozu Town, where Ozu Castle and Garyu Sanso offer a glimpse into Japan’s feudal past. Experience the town’s remarkable restoration project, preserving its rich cultural heritage.
♨️ Matsuyama & the Legendary Dogo Onsen – Relax in Japan’s oldest onsen, Dogo Onsen, stroll through the lively Bocchan-themed streets, and visit the majestic Matsuyama Castle. Savor Ehime’s renowned mikan oranges (Japanese citrus), a local delicacy.
🌿 Explore Takamatsu & the Art of Shikoku – Unwind in Takamatsu, home to Ritsurin Garden, one of Japan’s most beautiful landscaped gardens, and discover Shikoku’s vibrant island culture.
🏙️ The Grand Finale in Osaka & the 2025 World Expo! – End your journey with three nights in Osaka, where you’ll have the exclusive opportunity to attend the 2025 Osaka World Expo, a once-in-a-lifetime global event showcasing the future of innovation, culture, and technology!
✨ Why Choose This Tour?
✔️ More time to explore each destination—no rushed one-day stops!
✔️ Unique transportation experiences: Overnight cruise, scenic ferries & smooth connections.
✔️ Regional food delights: Enjoy local specialties like Ehime’s mikan, Ozu’s traditional flavors, and Setouchi’s fresh seafood.
✔️ Exclusive access to cultural treasures in Ozu, Matsuyama, and Takamatsu.
✔️ Limited-time chance to experience the Osaka World Expo!
Experience this unforgettable journey with Travel Japan, your trusted Japan travel specialist. With expertly curated itineraries, seamless arrangements, and exclusive local insights, we bring you closer to the heart of Japan’s culture, history, and natural beauty. Don't miss this rare chance to explore the stunning Setouchi region.
📅 Book Now and embark on the ultimate Setouchi & Ehime adventure!