Sensō-ji Temple in Tokyo lit up at night.
Sensō-ji Temple in Tokyo lit up at night.

Japan tours

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Get your Topdeck trip to Japan sorted

Words to describe Japan... Eclectic. Vibrant. Unique. There ain’t no other place like this. Trust us. It’s a mesh of time-honoured traditions and ultra-modern culture – both of which are celebrated across the world. Yep, this destination’s got that unique main character energy. Want a tiny taste of Japan things to do? Think: imperial palaces, jaw-dropping mountains, anime stores, karaoke boxes... The list is as long as your TikTok fyp. Clue: never ending. Add in an awesome group of people, an incred itinerary, plenty of local eats and a hassle-free vibe, that’s your trip to Japan SORTED. 

Pick your Japan tour

Three people wearing kimonos walk through the torii gates of the Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto, Japan.
Delve Deep: Japan 2025-26 map.
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4.2

Japan: Sushi & Shrines

12 days
18 guests (max)
 Japan

From $3,339

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Street view in Osaka, Japan with lanterns, flags and shop signs.
Delve Deep: Intro to Japan 2025 map
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4

Japan Highlights: Karaoke & Katsu

7 days
18 guests (max)
 Japan

From $1,669

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Top Japan places to visit

The orange Tokyo Tower stands tall among other buildings in the city.

Tokyo

Pink cherry blossoms. Crazy tall buildings. Lights everywhere. Tokyo attractions take the crown for range. Wanna see? Meiji Shine. Harajuku district. Shibuya Crossing. Mt Fuji. There are heaps more, but were limited for character space. You'll probs get lost among the mayhem, but isn't that part of the fun? Hit Tokyo landmarks. Stuff your face with all the ramen, yakitori and udon you can stomach. Find nature in one of its parks. Do it all, cos this city is mind-blowing.

Colourful signs on Dotonbori shopping street in Osaka, Japan.

Osaka

Calling all foodies! Food culture in Osaka = "kuidaore" aka "eating until you drop". Mission accepted. And there's CHOICE... Takoyaki. Okonomiyaki. Kushikatsu. You're gonna enjoy Every. Single. Morsel. Sticking to the tasty theme, Osaka bars are where it's at in Japan. Vibes? Varied. Game bars? Score! And everyone loves a classic rooftop - Osaka has a few of those too. Osaka attractions other than the famed Shitennoji Temple? Find out on a Topdeck Japan tour *winks*. 

Floating torii gate of the Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island at sunset.

Hiroshima

Hiroshima, Japan, has history written all over it. Learn of its devastation. And later its triumph. Hiroshima things to do? The most obvious is Peace Memorial Park. Once a place of politics, the park is now an open dedication to peace. For more history, visit Hiroshima Castle and Mazda Museum. Feeling more open spaces? Shukkeien Garden's where you're gonna find beaut landscapes. Don't forget downtown Hiroshima. There, you can get your feast on with local delicacy okonomiyaki. 

Three people wearing traditional kimonos walk through the torii gates of the Fushimi Inari Taisha shrine in Kyoto.

Kyoto

The OG capital of Japan. Kyoto's the Japan you imagine. And then some. Tranquil lakes. Traditional temples. Lush trees all year round. All those daily worries are gonna melt away as soon as you step foot here. Get in-the-know with Kyoto attractions. First up: Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. Green so blinding you'll think you've stepped off planet Earth. Next: Kinkaku-ji aka the Golden Pavilion. One of the major Buddhist temples in Kyoto, this place looks like it's floating on water.

Japan things to do

Group of people pose together in front of Japanese sake barrels at a Shinto shrine.

Explore the magic of Meiji Shrine

One of the top Tokyo attractions, Meiji Shrine is not to be missed. Especially for all you lover girls and guys out there. This entire place is dedicated to the spirits of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shōken aka long-time married couple who started the modernisation of Japan. It’s giving history. It’s giving stunning. It’s giving our souls are entwined forever and ever. In today’s society, we all need a little bit of that. Soz modern dating. The Meiji Shrine, also known as Meiji Jingu, is surrounded by a lush, manmade forest; head here for ultra peace and quiet. 

Japan Highlights: Karaoke & Katsu
Two deer sit on the shore of Miyajima Island near the floating torii gate of the Itsukushima Shrine.

Explore the island of Miyajima

A hop, skip and a jump from Hiroshima (okay, an hour) is a little island called Miyajima. Official name: Itsukushima. Here, you’ve got top attractions like the Miyajima Shrine, Mount Misen and Daisho-in Temple. Not to mention its giant torii gate that literally floats on water. It’s a beaut place that gives super romantic vibes. And we’re all about romanticising your own life. Cos the real you deserves it. 

Japan: Sushi & Shrines
Two people holding microphones sing karaoke against a glittery wall.

Sing your heart out at karaoke in Japan

It’s taken the world by storm, but nothing compares to the original Japanese karaoke bar. So, what’s karaoke in Japan like? Short answer: karaoke on steroids. Dimmed lights. Private boxes. Zero embarrassment. This is the ultimate activity to do with mates, especially the new kind you just met. An ice breaker without eye rolls. Tumble into a room. Get comfy on the couches. Nominate your first singer and get the party started. You’ll probs be singing long after you’ve left the bar. BTS, watch out. 

Japan Highlights: Karaoke & Katsu
Traditional houses of the Hida Folk Village in Japan.

Visit Hida Folk Village

Traditionally known as Hida no Sato, the Hida Folk Village is 100% top of the Takayama things to do list. It’s an open-air museum that exhibits more than 30 traditional Hida homes. Everyone secretly wants to know how other people live. It’s a natural curiosity. Need more? Okay. The museum is laid out like a literal village. Think: storehouses, farmhouses, logging huts and even the village head’s home. They’re the village legend, so you know it’s gonna be awesome. 

Japan: Sushi & Shrines

Travel Japan with Topdeck

Need some Asian inspiration? Watch this!

Your Japan Qs answered 

Tipping isn’t customary in Japan – it can even be seen as insulting. Stick to showing your appreciation through local gestures instead. Think: a slight bow from the waist – it’s the ultimate sign of respect. 

There are 16 public holidays that are celebrated in Japan. These include Vernal Equinox Day (20 March), Greenery Day (4 May), Tanabata (7 July), Mountain Day (11 August), Culture Day (3 November) and more. To note: some dates vary year on year. 

Sliders and socks are top of the list for all the times you’ll be visiting religious sites. A brolly for UV rays and spells of rain. Casual clothes for wandering. Some smart staples if you wanna head to a fancy bar. Mosquito repellent for summer trips. For the full list, your trip notes hold the answers. 

100%. Especially for local businesses, smaller regions, temples, kiosks and markets. We reckon to budget around $50 cash per day but ask your Trip Leader on-the-road – they'll be able to tell you exactly what you need. Just another way to experience the REAL Japan. 

Hello = Konnichiwa   

Good morning = Ohayou gozaimasu   

Good evening = Konbanwa   

How are you? = Ogenki desu ka?   

I’m good, thanks = Genki desu   

Thank you = Arigatou gozaimasu   

I’m sorry / excuse me = Sumimasen   

Where is it? = Doko desu ka?   

How much does that cost? = Ikura desu ka?   

Yes = Hai   

No = Iie   

Bonus questions... 

Aussie autumn and wintertime (March to August). It’s cherry blossom season. Say no more, right? 

You must have comprehensive travel insurance to participate in a Topdeck trip to Japan. You will be unable to join us without it.  

It’s your responsibility to obtain the correct visas for your trip. Ask your travel agent or check with the relevant embassies before you depart.  

Find travel advice for Australia citizens here, for New Zealand citizens here for US citizens here, for Canadian citizens here and for British citizens here. If you’re travelling from a country not listed here, head to the relevant government website for more information.  

 

We recommend you consult your doctor about health and vaccination requirements before you travel to Japan.  

For current travel safety advice, please check your home country’s travel advisories. 

Mobile phone reception in Japan varies. Signal is likely to be better in cities and towns than in rural areas. Remember to check your network provider’s roaming fees to avoid any nasty surprises on your next bill! 

The plug types in Japan are Type A and B. Japan operates on a 100V supply voltage and 50/60Hz.  

We recommend you bring a universal plug adapter – airports usually sell them, but it’s cheaper to buy one before you go. 

Quick-fire edition: learn Japanese etiquette, pack light, get a data-heavy SIM, prepare for all weather, carry cash, don’t eat as you walk, research Japanese toilets, keep to one side of the pavement, and avoid rush hour.

Other sh*t hot destinations

Tegallalang Rice Terraces in Ubud, Bali, Indonesia

Bali

Beaches. Sunsets. Rice paddies. Things you might have seen before, but not in Bali. We could describe what they look like... Vibrant colours. Shades you've never seen. Endless stretches. But nothing compares to the real thing. Activities? Mountain hikes. Eco paddleboarding. Island bike rides. Food? Legit local eats that have you drooling for days. Vibes? Two words. Next. Level.

Let’s go
Three people diving from a boat into the ocean with their arms stretched out.

Thailand

Think you know Thailand? Think again. Beyond the bustling cities and glittering waters are royal residences, tingle inducing temples and languid lakes. Then there's the food. Khai Krata. Patonggo. Khao Kha Moo. And plenty more. Whether you travel North Thailand or South, we've got the Topdeck trip for you - with local Trip Leaders guiding you every step of the way.

Can’t wait
Smiling person in a tuk tuk signals a thumbs up with their hand.

Vietnam

Golden bridges. Buzzing markets. Magical lakes. Vietnam is a mash up of ancient history, delish eats and alill the traditions you can think of. No corner is the same and that's what makes this place AWESOME. You won't find another place on earth like it. A taste of activities? Halong Bay junk boat cruise. Marble Mountains. Cu Chi Tunnels. Yep, Vietnam's a place you can dive into REAL deep.

I’m there
Bayon Temple at Angkor in Cambodia.

Cambodia

A jungle of ruins, beaches and mountains. When you travel Cambodia with Topdeck, you'll tick off more than the hot spots all over your fyp. Think: lesser-known street food stalls, Siem Reap countryside, Ta Prohm. This place is wanderlust heaven. Feel the chaos of city life. Enjoy the tranquillity of idyllic coasts. And do everything in-between. Ready for it all?

I’m ready