Southern Japan Experience
< View Other Tours
Tour Overview
One of Japan’s greatest attractions is its blend of modern and traditional. On this 12-day trip, you’ll veer off the main island of Honshu and travel to the less-touristed southwest. Discover renowned contemporary art on Naoshima Island, wander through Matsuyama Castle and spend a night in a homestay in the village of Usuki. Steam away your worries in Beppu’s onsens and spend a night in the volcanic Mt Aso, staying in a traditional inn right in the middle of a caldera. Hear about Nagasaki’s sobering history firsthand from a survivor, then end your journey back in thriving Osaka. This adventure is the ultimate combination of modern art, bullet trains, countryside villages, delicious feasts and onsens. If you’re looking for a new side of Japan – head to the south!
Trip Code: CJSO
Start
Osaka
End
Osaka
Destination
Japan
Meals
2 breakfasts, 2 dinners
Transport
Train, Ferry, Public Bus, Private bus, Metro, Bullet Train
Accommodation
Hotel (9 nights), Homestay (1 night), Japanese Inn (1 night)
Days
12
Max Group Size
Min 1 - Max 12
Min Age
15
Style
Originali
Physical
3i
Trip Highlights
Why you'll love this trip
- •
Explore Naoshima Island – once a sleepy fishing community, it’s now a world-class art destination with an abundance of sleek and stylish galleries and outdoor artworks.
- •
Stay in a countryside homestay, taking you off the beaten track to experience excellent Japanese hospitality. Feast on home-cooked meals over fascinating conversations with your welcoming hosts and learn about rural life in Japan.
- •
Watch the steam rising from the ‘hells’ (hot spring pools) of Beppu. Enjoy a lunch cooked the local way – steamed in the mineral-rich hot spring water! Then, unwind in an onsen.
- •
Take in stunning views of the five peaks of Mount Aso from the Daikanbo Observatory, then set out on a light hike on the moon-like terrain to the largest crater of Nakadake.
- •
Expect the unexpected in Nagasaki, tragically famous for being one of the only two cities targeted by atomic bombs in WWII. Discover the charm of this port-side, Dutch-influenced city on a guided walk with your knowledgeable local leader.
Day by Day Itinerary
Itinerary
What's Included
Inclusions and activities
Meals
2 breakfasts, 2 dinners
Transport
Train, Ferry, Public Bus, Private bus, Metro, Bullet Train
Accommodation
Hotel (9 nights), Homestay (1 night), Japanese Inn (1 night)
Included activities
- Takamatsu - Ritsurin Garden & Sanuki Folkcraft Museum
- Takamatsu - Naoshima day trip (ferry, public bus & bicycle)
- Matsuyama - Matsuyama Castle
- Usuki - Local Sake brewery visit and tasting
- Usuki - Japanese home-cooking experience
Optional activities
Is This Trip Right for You?
Is this trip right for you?
- •
There are some long travelling days on this trip, but it’s all part of the adventure and a great way to get to know your fellow travellers.
- •
This trip requires a moderate level of fitness as it involves some walking and swimming, allowing you to really get among nature. Please bring sturdy, comfortable walking shoes, a swimsuit and comfortable clothing.
- •
Multiple activities on this trip are subject to weather and water conditions and on occasion, may be cancelled for safety or operational reasons. In the case of cancellation, we will endeavour to find a suitable replacement activity.
Photo Gallery
No Images Available
Images for this tour are currently being updated.
Book this trip
Select a departure date and we'll lock in your spot with our travel team.
CJSO · 12 days
Choose your departure
0 dates · Japan
No departures match
Try another year or month
Booking
Pick a date
Select a departure on the left to continue.
Questions About This Tour?
Our travel experts are here to help you plan the perfect adventure. Get in touch for personalized advice and recommendations.