Globaltravelbook, a licensed travel agency in Malta covered by the Insolvency Fund TRA/G/32.
Why you should join our trip to Japan:
This trip is designed by the travel experts at Globaltravelbook who will also be present on this trip together with the licensed tour guides. The team has designed close to all-inclusive tour which includes hand picked activities, transport and highly rated 3-4-Star accommodation (list provided below). This trip of a life time has been designed to a high standard to make you enjoy your trip to the fullest, with an excellent balance between comfort and unique experiences.
Main areas we will visit:
TOKYO | NIKKO | FUJI | TAKAYAMA | SHIRAKAWA | KYOTO | NARA | OSAKA | HIROSHIMA
Overview of many of our activities (more in the day-to-day itinerary)
What about flights?
We have the first batch of seats reserved at the price of €1300 – a 25% deposit is required on booking and the remaining amount is to be paid 1 or 2 months prior to departure dates
Why don’t we include flights in the package price?
How to Proceed:
Arrival Airport
Tokyo, Haneda Airport
From Malta
For those not travelling from Malta or not joining the flight group booking, you could arrive in Tokyo at any time on 23 May 2027
Departure Airport
Osaka International Airport
Departing 5 June 2027 and arriving in Malta 6 June 2027
Dates
23 May – 5 June ’27
Price Includes
Price Excludes
Requirements
For those joining the flight group booking, you will depart all together from Malta International Airport.
Group Flight Details:
TK1372 | 22 May | Malta International Airport – Istanbul Airport | 19:30 23:00
TK 198 | 23 May | Istanbul Airport – Haneda Airport, Tokyo | 02:05 19:20
For those arranging their own flights it is important to arrive in Tokyo on the 23 May 2027.
Hotel: Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro
Included: Transfer to hotel from airport.
*Airport transfers from the hotel are included for guests joining the group booking or arriving at the airport at the same time. If you arrive at a different time, additional transportation will be required. This can be arranged either through us or organised independently.
Start Your Day at Tsukiji Fish Market
Dive into Tokyo’s culinary heart at Tsukiji Fish Market, a paradise for seafood lovers and food enthusiasts. Wander through countless food stalls offering fresh seafood, local delicacies, and unique kitchen gadgets.
Learn the Art of Sushi Making
What’s better than learning how to make sushi in Japan? Ready to roll your very own sushi? Learn everything there is to know about this Japanese dish – from its multiple variants to the proper ways of cooking rice, slicing fish and rolling.
Visit Asakusa Senso-ji & Nakamise Street
Step into Tokyo’s historic side in Asakusa, where tradition meets modernity. Explore Senso-ji, a 7th-century Buddhist temple and one of Tokyo’s most beloved landmarks. Stroll along Nakamise Street, a 250-meter shopping lane lined with stalls offering traditional souvenirs, snacks, and sweets, all leading up to the temple.
After the day trip, you will have the option to take part in a private traditional Japanese tea ceremony and kimono-wearing experience in Asakusa.
Further details, including pricing and booking information, will be communicated at a later stage.
Hotel: Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro
Included: Breakfast, Transfers, Guided tour, Sushi Making Class and Lunch
Included: Breakfast, Transfers, Guided tour and all entrances.
With so much to see and do around Tokyo, we’ve included a free day, giving you the flexibility to choose your preferred activities.
You could opt to:
Hotel: Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro
Included: Breakfast
Tokyo to Mt.Fuji Area
Lake Kawaguchiko – we will arrive right at the base of Mt.Fuji at Lake Kawaguchiko, which is the most easily accessible of the Fuji five lakes. The best views of Mount Fuji can be enjoyed from the lake and are breathtaking during the time we will be visiting, in autumn season, due to the changing colours of leaves. Trees that were once green explode into beautiful hues of gold, red, and orange. Please note views of mount Fuji are always subject to the weather conditions on that day.
Chureito Pagoda – Another great view point that we will visit is the Chureito Pagoda, which is a five storied pagoda on the mountainside overlooking Mt.Fuji and the Fujiyoshida city. The location offers a combination of great views of the Pagoda and Mt.Fuji.
Hoto Noodles (lunch) – we will also have the opportunity to eat Hoto Noodles for lunch which is a hearty hot pot dish local to this region. It is commonly believed to have been eaten by Takeda Shingen, the regional warlord during the era of warring states, and his samurai before going into battle. The dish consists of thick wheat noodles in a miso based soup and is often served in an iron pot. While hoto noodles resemble extra thick udon noodles, they are prepared more like dumplings, and lend a heartier quality to the dish than udon would. The soup is traditionally a miso based broth with pumpkin and other seasonal vegetables added.
Oshino Hakkai – is a set of eight ponds located between Lake Kawaguchiko and Lake Yamanakako on the site of a former sixth lake that dried out several hundred years ago. The eight ponds are fed by snow melt from the slopes of nearby Mount Fuji that filters down the mountain through porous layers of lava for over 80 years, resulting in very clear spring water that is revered by the locals.
Hotel: Fuji Marriott Hotel Lake, Yamanakako
Included: Breakfast, Transfers, Guided tour, lunch, dinner and all entrances.
Before transferring to Takayama, we will stop at a Mt. Fuji viewpoint, either Nagaike Water Park or Oishi Park, to give you a second chance to see Mt. Fuji in case the weather was unfavorable the previous day
Takayama offers a glimpse into rural Japan, with its rich history, culture, and traditional atmosphere, perfect for those looking to experience a more tranquil side of the country.
Upon arrival, you’ll check into your hotel, around 3pm. After check-in, you can explore the town on your own, join your group leader for a tour, or relax at the hotel. The hotel features traditional Japanese designs and tatami (woven-straw) flooring throughout and boasts a rooftop open-air natural hot-spring bath.
You may also choose to visit the Funasaka Sake Brewery to sample local brews, or take a scenic walk to Shiroyama Park for a peaceful experience amidst nature.
Hotel: Takayama Ouan
Included: Breakfast & Transfers
Morning: Takayama Jinya
Start your day by visiting Takayama Jinya, a historic museum that once served as the local government office during the Edo period. Explore the traditional Japanese architecture, including tatami-mat rooms that offer a glimpse into the past.
Old Town Walk
Next, take a leisurely walk around Takayama’s preserved old town, featuring Edo-period wooden houses, sake breweries, and charming craft shops. Enjoy a local lunch, with Hida beef being a recommended specialty to try.
Afternoon: Shirakawa-go
After lunch, travel to Shirakawa-go (approx. 1-hour drive), a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its iconic gassho-zukuri farmhouses. These unique, thatched-roof houses, some over 250 years old, were constructed without nails and reflect traditional Japanese carpentry.
The Wada House
Visit the Wada House, the largest gassho-style farmhouse in Shirakawa-go, built during the Edo period. This historic house showcases the wealth of the Wada family, the largest landowners in Ogimachi village.
Ogimachi Viewpoint
Enjoy free time to visit the Ogimachi Viewpoint, offering panoramic views of the village with its distinctive thatched-roof houses. While there is an uphill walk to the viewpoint, those unable to walk can still enjoy the tranquil scenery.
Hotel: Takayama Ouan
Included: Breakfast, Transfers, Guided tour, all entrances and luggage transfers.
Note: Luggage transfer (one luggage per person) will be arranged to your hotel on Day 8 to avoid travelling with heavy luggage by train. For added convenience, it’s recommended to pack a small hand luggage for Days 7 and 8.
Note:
Luggage Transfer: (one luggage per person) – In the morning, before your day trip, please leave your large luggage at the hotel reception for onward transfer to Kyoto. Travel with your hand luggage and any essentials you will need for the following days. Your large luggage will be delivered to your hotel in Kyoto on Day 8. This service is arranged for your convenience, as luggage space on Japan’s bullet trains is limited.
Departure from Hotel to Takayama Station: Begin your journey with a transfer from your hotel to Takayama Station, where you will board the bullet train to Kyoto (approx. 3 hours).
Kyoto Overview: Once the capital of Japan and the emperor’s residence from 794 to 1868, Kyoto survived wars and fires due to its historic value, escaping destruction during World War II. Today, the city is home to countless temples, shrines, and historically priceless structures.
Lunch at Nishiki Market: Our first stop in Kyoto is Nishiki Market, famously known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen.” This bustling market offers a variety of local delicacies, with narrow stalls and two-story shops specialising in fresh, locally produced foods. Explore the market’s vibrant atmosphere and enjoy lunch here, savouring Kyoto’s rich culinary heritage.
Ninenzaka & Sannenzaka: After lunch, take a short walk to the historic stone-paved streets of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka. Built in the 8th century, these picturesque sloping streets are lined with traditional Japanese-style buildings, souvenir shops, and nearby landmarks like Kodaiji Temple and Yasaka Shrine. It’s a popular area for sightseeing, especially en route to Kiyomizu Temple.
Kiyomizudera Temple: Visit the iconic Kiyomizudera Temple, famous for its wooden stage that extends 13 meters above the hillside, offering stunning views of the surrounding area.
Evening & Hotel Check-In: After a fulfilling day exploring Kyoto’s geisha districts, check into your hotel. For dinner, join the group or enjoy free time to explore on your own. Your luggage will be waiting for you at the hotel’s reception, as it will be sent in advance on Day 7, sparing you from carrying large bags during train rides.
Hotel: Rihga Gran, Kyoto
Included: Breakfast, Transfers, Guided tour and all entrances.
After breakfast, embark on a guided day trip to Nara, located in the Kansai Region of Japan. Known for its rich cultural heritage, Nara is home to numerous temples, Shinto shrines, and the famous wild deer that roam freely. During the visit, you’ll explore the majestic Todaiji Temple and the peaceful Nara Deer Park.
Drive along the scenic Shin-Wakakusayama Driveway to the summit of Mt. Wakakusa, where you’ll enjoy beautiful panoramic views over Nara.
Depending on time, continue to Uji, renowned for its world-famous matcha tea culture, with a short stop to browse and purchase local matcha products.
Hotel: Rihga Gran, Kyoto
Included: Breakfast, Transfers, Guided tour and all entrances.
After breakfast, we will embark on a full day of exploring the cultural wonders of Kyoto.
Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion): Our first stop will be Kinkakuji, the iconic Zen Buddhist temple known as the Golden Pavilion. This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of Kyoto’s most significant landmarks.
Arashiyama: Next, we’ll head to the picturesque Arashiyama district, especially popular during the autumn season when the foliage is vibrant. Arashiyama is Kyoto’s second most important sightseeing area, filled with beautiful temples and shrines. The highlight is the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where we’ll walk through a breathtaking bamboo valley.
Fushimi Inari: Our final stop of the day will be Fushimi Inari Taisha, one of Japan’s most famous shrines, renowned for its thousands of striking vermilion torii gates that lead up the sacred Mount Inari.
After a day of sightseeing, we’ll return to our accommodation in Kyoto.
Hotel: Rihga Gran, Kyoto
Included: Breakfast, Transfers, Luggage Delivery, Guided tour and all entrances.
Note:
Luggage Transfer: (one luggage per person) – On the evening after your day trip, please leave your large luggage at the hotel reception for onward transfer to Osaka. Travel with your hand luggage and any essentials you will need for the following days. Your large luggage will be delivered to your hotel in Osaka on Day 12.This service is arranged for your convenience, as luggage space on Japan’s bullet trains is limited.
Check out of your hotel and travel to Hiroshima by bullet train. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy some free time for lunch.
Later, explore Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park on a guided walking tour, including a visit to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and the iconic Atomic Bomb Dome.
The evening is free for you to explore Hiroshima at your own pace.
Hotel: ANA Crowne Plaza Hotel Hiroshima
Included: Breakfast, Transfers, Guided tour and all entrances.
What Happened in Hiroshima?
On August 6, 1945, the United States dropped the world’s first atomic bomb on Hiroshima, devastating 90% of the city and killing 80,000 people. Today, the city stands as a symbol of peace and resilience.
Atomic Bomb Dome and Peace Memorial Park
Your day trip includes a guided tour of Hiroshima’s key historical sites, including the iconic Atomic Bomb Dome, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Peace Memorial Park. These landmarks honor the victims and serve as powerful reminders of the importance of peace.
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
Explore the museum, which offers moving exhibits about the events of 1945 and the lasting impact of the atomic bombing. The museum reinforces the message that we must never take peace for granted.
Spend the morning exploring beautiful Miyajima Island, including a visit to the famous Itsukushima Shrine, followed by free time to wander the island’s charming streets, food stalls and shops.
Return to Osaka
Later, travel by bullet train to Osaka, arriving with plenty of time to enjoy a full evening in the city. Your transferred luggage will already be waiting for you at the hotel upon arrival.
With your hotel centrally located, head out and experience Osaka’s lively streets, incredible food scene and entertainment at your own pace.
Hotel: Osaka Excel Hotel Tokyu
Included: Breakfast, Transfers, Guided tour and all entrances.
Hotel: Osaka Excel Hotel Tokyu
Included: Breakfast, Transfers, Guided tour and all entrances.
Enjoy your final day in Japan with free time to explore the vibrant streets, bustling markets, or indulge in personal activities. Later, you’ll re-group at the hotel before heading to the airport for your return flight home, concluding your unforgettable journey.
Hotel check out: 1100 am – You may leave your luggage at the front desk.
Late check out at additional charge.
Group booking details (For those who choose this option):
TK 087 | 05 Jun | Kansai International Airport, Osaka – Istanbul Airport | 22:10 05:00 +1
TK1369 | 06 Jun | Istanbul Airport – Malta International Airport | 07:40 09:05
Included: Breakfast & Transfer to airport.
*Airport transfers from the hotel are included for guests joining the group booking or departing at the airport at the same time. If you depart at a different time, additional transportation will be required. This can be arranged either through us or organised independently.
Every client is required to have a travel insurance package. This needs to be presented to us.
Accommodation will be hand selected, highly rated, 3-4* hotels. The price includes accommodation in a shared private twin sharing room, however, if one wishes to have a private room that sleeps (1 person) this is possible at an additional cost at 850 euro.
September is a warm and pleasant month to explore Japan, with temperatures around 21–28°C (70–82°F). You can expect comfortable sightseeing weather, and possible brief showers early in the month usually pass quickly, leaving the air fresh and clear.
What about the regions we’re visiting?
Tokyo / Kyoto / Osaka / Hiroshima: Warm and enjoyable, with increasingly mild days as the month goes on—great for walking tours and outdoor attractions.
Mt. Fuji area: Refreshingly cool, around 12–20°C (54–68°F), offering crisp mountain air and beautiful views.
Takayama: Mild and pleasant, 15–26°C (59–79°F), ideal for strolling through the historic old town.
For Japan there are two associated plug types, A and B. Plug type A is the plug which has two flat parallel pins and plug type B is the plug which has two flat parallel pins and a grounding pin.
Maltese and most European citizens do not need a tourist visa when travelling to Japan in 2026. Maltese passport holders can stay in Japan for a short period of time (for 90 days). However please inform us if you do not hold a Maltese passport and we will help you check regarding your visa.
The Japanese yen is the official currency in Japan. Most establishments accept payments by Visa or Debit card, however traditional establishments may prefer cash payments. Travellers may exchange to Japanese yen on our first day in Tokyo, our group leader will help you out. Another option is to exchange to Japanese yen in your home country, however do not worry as we will help you out if you prefer to exchange when in Japan.
To secure your spot, a 20% deposit (€690) is required after completing the booking form. Payment can be made either by bank transfer or through our online payment system by selecting the 20% payment option.
The remaining balance will be paid in two instalments:
Payment reminders and instructions will be sent to you by email.
Bank Transfer Reference:
When paying by bank transfer, please make sure to include the following reference:
GTB035 – Name & Surname
If you choose to cancel your booking, you must notify us in writing on explore@globaltravelbook.com as soon as possible. Upon cancellation, we will assess any recoverable amounts and provide a refund of funds that we have not yet paid, or are not contractually obligated to pay, to third-party suppliers (including but not limited to airlines, hotels, transport providers, and activity operators).
Please note that many components of group travel are prepaid and non-refundable. As such, the closer the cancellation is to the departure date, the lower the likelihood of recovering any funds.
Travel Insurance Requirement: We strongly require all clients to obtain comprehensive travel insurance at the time of booking. Standard travel insurance policies typically provide coverage for trip cancellations due to unforeseen circumstances (subject to policy terms and conditions). As we cannot assume liability for cancellations, failure to obtain adequate insurance may result in financial loss.
No-show or unused services: No refunds will be provided for failure to join the trip, late arrival, early departure, or any unused portion of the travel package.
