Essence of Japan - French Guided
Overview
Embark on an unforgettable 10-day, 8-night journey through the enchanting landscapes and cultural wonders of Japan. Explore the bustling energy of Tokyo's vibrant streets, explore Kyoto's ancient temples and traditional districts, and marvel at the iconic beauty of Mount Fuji. Immerse yourself in Japan's rich history, indulge in delicious cuisine, and witness the perfect harmony of tradition and innovation on this captivating exploration of a diverse and captivating country.
This itinerary features More Moments activities included with your package.
This itinerary includes Out & About suggestions for activities that are not included in your package, but they are great tips for places to visit and things to do.
If your itinerary includes domestic and/or regional flight tickets, as well as entry tickets to landmarks that require passport details, you must call Air Canada Vacations immediately upon receiving your booking confirmation. Failure to provide Air Canada Vacations with your passport details may result in the unavailability of domestic and/or regional flight tickets and entry passes for certain landmarks included in your tour package. It is mandatory to call Air Canada Vacations at the number provided in your electronic confirmation as soon as your booking is confirmed to submit your passport details.
Format
Locations
- Japan
- Osaka
- Nara
- Kyoto
- Nagoya
- Hamamatsu
- Gotemba
- Fujikawaguchiko
- Tokyo
Inclusions
- Round-trip flights to Haneda (if flight and hotel option is chosen)
- One-way flight from Haneda’s International Airport to Kansai's International Airport
- 8 nights Superior accommodation with meal inclusions according to itinerary (4 nights in Osaka, 1 night in Hamamatsu, 1 night in Fuji, 2 nights in Tokyo)
- Meal inclusions and regional delicacies mentioned in the below itinerary
- Shared round-trip transfers to/from airport, service provided on airport shuttle (local assistance will be provided to ensure your transfer to the hotel goes smoothly)
- Shared transfers for all sightseeing activities within the itinerary in air-conditioned vehicle
- Kyoto to Nagoya transfer in Shinkansen (bullet train)
- Lake Kawaguchi boat cruise
- Services of French-speaking tour guides and driver service fees
- Landmark entrance fees according to the itinerary, unless specified otherwise
- Hotel taxes, fees, and service charges
- Earn extra Aeroplan® points per member on this tour
- More Moments activities included:
- Nara: Todai-ji Temple, Daibutsuden (Great Buddha Hall) and Nara Park
- Osaka: Osaka Castle, a visit to the Dotonbori Entertainment District
- Kyoto: Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion), Higashi Hongan-ji
- Nagoya: Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology
- Gotemba, Hamamatsu, and Fuji: Gotemba Peace Park, Oshino Hakkai, Sengenjinja Shrine, and a picturesque ride on board of a cruise on Lake Kawaguchi
- Tokyo: Meiji Shrine, Sensoji Temple, Stroll in the Nakamise shopping street
Itinerary
Day 1
Depart Canada
Overnight flight to Haneda’s International Airport.
Day 2
Welcome to Osaka
Upon arrival to Haneda’s International Airport, claim your luggage and go through customs and immigration, once cleared proceed to check-in for your flight to Osaka.
Upon arrival at Kansai International Airport, a local representative will greet you at the airport exit with an Air Canada Vacations’ sign. Your local representative will assist you with your transfer service; the transfer from the airport to the hotel will be on your own. After you check-in at your hotel, the rest of the day is at your leisure.
Day 3
Osaka
After breakfast, spend the day at your leisure exploring the gorgeous city of Osaka, or opt for a full day tour to hit some of the region’s most famous landmarks.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 4
Osaka - Nara - Osaka
After breakfast, meet your local guide in the hotel lobby and set out on an unforgettable adventure through Nara and Osaka.
From serene temples and friendly deer roaming freely in Nara’s historic parks to the vibrant streets, culinary delights, and dynamic energy of Osaka, today promises a perfect blend of culture, tradition, and modern excitement. Get ready to immerse yourself in two of Japan’s most captivating destinations—all in one remarkable day.
After the tour, you will be transferred back to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure
More Moments Activities Included
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Nara and Osaka
Begin your day with a visit to the magnificent Todai-ji Temple, constructed in the 8th century. This vast and historic complex is home to remarkable national treasures, including the impressive Daibutsuden, which houses the world’s largest bronze statue of the Buddha Vairocana. Before departing for Osaka, take time to wander through Nara Park, where over 1,200 wild sika deer roam freely.
Upon returning to Osaka, explore the majestic Osaka Castle, a symbol of power and resilience. Conclude your day in the vibrant district of Dotonbori, where dazzling neon lights and irresistible local flavours showcase Osaka’s renowned food culture. Enjoy free time to stroll, shop, and savour the atmosphere before making your way back home.
Meal(s): Breakfast and lunch
Day 5
Osaka
Spend the day at your leisure exploring the iconic landmarks and local experiences that make Osaka famous! History and technology museums are a must-see! Venture into the business of Kuromon Market or spend the day shopping at the Shinsaibashi Shopping Street. Why not join the optional Kansai Culture Tour?
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 6
Osaka - Kyoto - Nagoya - Hamamatsu
After breakfast, meet your local tour guide and embark on today's journey towards Hamamatsu. On route, explore historic Kyoto temples and take in panoramic city views before stopping for lunch. In the afternoon, experience the thrill of riding Japan’s famous bullet train from Kyoto to Nagoya and visit an interactive museum showcasing industrial and technological innovation. Continue your journey to Hamamatsu for an overnight stay.
Note: Your coach transfer will leave from Kyoto to Nagoya and wait for you there, your luggage will be left on board the coach while you continue with your program.
More Moments Activities Included
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Kyoto and Nagoya
Start your adventure with a ride to Kyoto, where you’ll visit the Kinkaku-ji and Higashi Hongan-ji temples before transferring to Kyoto Station for a perfect shot of Kyoto Tower and a stop for lunch. In the afternoon, experience the thrill of riding the Shinkansen bullet train to Nagoya Station, then visit the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology. Finally, board your transfer to Hamamatsu for an overnight stay.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 7
Hamamatsu - Gotemba - Fuji
After breakfast, meet your local guide and set out towards Mount Fuji, Japan’s iconic snow-capped peak. Revered and awe-inspiring, it’s a breathtaking symbol of beauty and serenity that captures the essence of the Japanese landscape.
More Moments Activities Included
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Gotemba and Fuji
Start your day with a visit to Gotemba Peace Park to capture breathtaking views of Mount Fuji and explore the eight crystal-clear springs, fed by melted snow filtered through volcanic rock. Continue to Sengen Shrine before enjoying the scenic beauty of Mount Fuji from a relaxing cruise on Lake Kawaguchi. Conclude the day with a buffet dinner and an authentic cultural experience at a traditional hot spring hotel.
Meal(s): Breakfast and buffet dinner
Day 8
Fuji-Tokyo
After breakfast, join your local guide for an exciting full-day exploration of Tokyo, discovering the city’s most iconic landmarks and vibrant attractions.
Following the tour, you will be transferred back to your hotel, leaving the rest of the day at leisure to relax or explore Tokyo at your own pace. For a cultural experience, you may also choose to participate in an optional kimono rental activity ($).
More Moments Activities Included
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Tokyo
Begin today's adventure with a visit to the Meiji Shrine, dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shōken. Continue to Tokyo Metro for a panoramic view of the sprawling city, then stroll through the vibrant Senso-ji Temple, with the option to wear a kimono for memorable photos along the historic streets. Conclude with a walk along the 820-ft Nakamise shopping street, exploring charming stalls filled with traditional Japanese goods and souvenirs.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 9
Tokyo
After breakfast, spend the day at your leisure and explore the hustle and bustle of Tokyo however you’d like. Discover Japanese history and art at a museum or indulge in some retail therapy at Tokyo’s cutting-edge stores - alternatively, you may join an optional day trip.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 10
Tokyo - Canada
After breakfast, board your airport shuttle to Haneda’s International airport for your return flight to Canada.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Accommodations
Where you'll stay
Superior Accommodation
Location
Hotel
Room details
Type of bed(s): 2 twin beds
Room occupancy: Maximum 2 people (2 adults, or 1 adults and 1 child)
Unless otherwise specified, guests will stay in a standard room at all hotels during the trip.
Important Information
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Departure Dates:
- Frequency: April 01, 2025 to November 18, 2025
- Tour operates on Wednesday ONLY
- Frequency: April 01, 2025 to November 18, 2025
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Not included:
- Meals outside of the ones mentioned within the itinerary above
- Transfers for the optional activities, and any other transfer services required outside of the itinerary above
- Entrance to other landmarks not mentioned in the itinerary
- Additional activities and excursions
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The More Moments activities/excursions mentioned in the itinerary are all included in the package but may be rescheduled to take place on an earlier or later day, depending on availability and operational day, or cancelled due to weather related conditions.
Suggested itineraries:
- Kansai Culture day tour (traditional lunch included)
- Kimono rental
- Modern Tokyo tour
These itineraries are suggestions for activities that are not included in your package, but they are great tips for places to visit and things to do.
Optional tours will only be available if min group size requirement is met. It is strongly recommended to book in advance to secure availability.
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- Flight from Haneda to Osaka
- Round-trip airports shuttle bus for all flights
- Coach for all inter-city shared transfers
- Bullet train (Shinkansen) transfer from Kyoto to Nagoya
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- The itinerary above is subject to change without prior notice. The order in which destinations are visited or day excursions occur may change due to operational restrictions, such as weather and accommodation availability.
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Optional activities/excursions can be purchased with the local supplier prior to departure, and are offered, and sold exclusively by them.
For any inquiries regarding these activities/excursions, the contact link can be found in your travel documents delivered between 30 and 14 days prior to departure.