The
Japan
trip
For the love of
ANCIENT TEMPLES
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SUSHI & RAMEN
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​BAMBOO FORESTS
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KAWAII CULTURE
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TRADITIONAL TEA
KARAOKE
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NATURAL HOT SPRINGS
BULLET TRAINS
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IZAKAYA​
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JAPAN​
WHAT TO EXPECT
Our small group trip to Japan is crafted for travelers in their 20s and 30s, offering a perfect balance of ancient traditions and cutting-edge modern life—a fascinating blend of the old and the new.
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You’ll explore everything from peaceful shrines and remote villages to the vibrant, futuristic streets. Along the way, you’ll bond with a great group of fellow travelers, savor Japan’s legendary cuisine, sing your heart out at karaoke, and relax in a traditional Japanese onsen.
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Trust us—you’ve never experienced anything quite like Japan.
2025 dates
​​May 24 - Jun 1, 2025
Runs over Memorial Day - likely to sell out​
Oct 11 - 19, 2025​
Fall Foliage Season
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Oct 25 - Nov 2, 2025​
Fall Foliage Season
9 days/8 nights
starting at $6,199 USD
Limited private room upgrades starting from $1,899 are available and can be added during booking, subject to availability.
P.S. All payments can be broken up into a
$975 deposit + 3 additional installments.
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*Please note: Due to requirements from our suppliers, the Japan Trip follows a 91-Day Cancellation Policy.
Included
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8 night accommodations in shared rooms (private room upgrade available on request)
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Meals: 8 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 4 dinners with some drinks included
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Transportation: All bullet train tickets, private transfers, ICI cards for the bus, metro and local train system
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Tour of Kiyomizu-dera Temple
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Hands-on pottery lesson
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Zen meditation class led by a monk
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Guided hike to top of Mt. Kurama
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Tickets to Osaka Castle
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Local foodie tour through Dotonbori
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Tea tasting on a green tea plantation
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Private onsen bath and stay in traditional ryokan
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Organized karaoke night
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Tsukiji Market Visit
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Traditional sushi-making class
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FTLO Trip Leader
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*All activities are weather dependent; in the unlikely event that we are unable to run an activity, we will have a suitable alternative in place.
not included
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Flights (fly into Osaka or Kansai International Airport and out of Tokyo)
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Airport transfers
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Mandatory trip insurance
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Meals not mentioned (budget around $275, depending on consumption habits)
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Incidental expenses (like taxis - budget $300)
day by day
Trip itineraries are subject to change. For more information, check out our FAQs HERE.
Day 1 - Kyoto
Konnichiwa
Welcome to Kyoto—where ancient temples, bamboo forests, and geisha-lined streets set the scene for an unforgettable start to your adventure. If you arrive early, shake off the jet lag with a peaceful walk through the iconic torii gates of Fushimi Inari or lose yourself in the towering Arashiyama bamboo grove. Kyoto moves at a slower pace than Tokyo, making it the perfect place to ease into the journey ahead.
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By late afternoon, you’ll meet your new travel crew and experience what we at FTLO like to call the "first-night buzz"—that mix of excitement, curiosity, and the instant connection of meeting fellow travelers who are just as hyped to be here as you are.
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Over dinner, we’ll raise a glass to new friends and dive into our first taste of Japan’s incredible food scene.
Arrive
Day 2 - Kyoto
TIMELESS TRADITION
On our first full day in Kyoto, we’ll immerse ourselves in the city’s timeless traditions—through history, art, and spirituality. We’ll begin the morning at a 1,200-year-old temple, nestled in the peaceful, wooded hills just east of the city, before diving into one of Japan’s most celebrated crafts: ceramics.
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In a private pottery lesson, you’ll create your own piece while embracing wabi-sabi, the Japanese philosophy of finding beauty in imperfection. It’s a meditative experience—and a meaningful way to craft something special to bring home. Afterward, we’ll take a quick lunch break before heading into a Zen meditation session, guided by a local monk.
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The evening is yours to plan, but if you’re craving something unforgettable, we’ve got a must-try gyoza joint in mind. It’s nothing fancy—just extra-crispy, thin-skinned dumplings filled with juicy pork and melted cheese. One bite, and you might never look at gyoza the same way again.
DEVOUR
Day 3 - Kurama & Kibune
VIEWS FROM THE TOP
On day three, we’ll venture outside the city for a scenic day trip to a charming town just under an hour by train from Kyoto. The adventure begins with a hike up Mt. Kurama, where the views become more breathtaking the higher we climb. As we wind through lush forests, keep an eye out for playful monkeys, songbirds, and other wildlife along the four-hour trek. Afterward, enjoy some free time to explore the quaint town of Kibune and savor a well-deserved lunch before heading back.
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For those still with energy after the hike, we suggest a sunset stroll along the Kamo River, which leads to the nearby Pontocho Alley—a narrow, lively lane filled with hidden restaurants and bars. From cozy izakayas to lively cocktail spots, there’s something for everyone here. Don’t miss the chance to try your first udon or ramen—just be sure to slurp your noodles like a local! Challenge your crew to see who can slurp the loudest and earn a smile from the locals, who love the sound.
VENTURE
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Day 4 - Osaka
foodie PARADISE
Get ready for a day trip to Osaka, known as "Japan’s Kitchen" and the third-largest city in the country! We’ll start with a visit to Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s most iconic landmarks, offering incredible views of the city skyline. Then, it’s off to explore the bustling, neon-lit streets of Dotombori, which is the heart of Osaka’s food scene. This area is a sensory overload (in a good way!) with giant moving mascots, glowing signs, and mouthwatering aromas from countless street food stalls.
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On our local foodie tour, we’ll dive into Osaka’s culinary treasures—sampling everything from Takoyaki (gooey octopus balls) and crispy Okonomiyaki (savory pancakes), to sweet treats like Taiyaki (fish-shaped pastries filled with sweet red bean). You’ll discover hidden gems and taste the best of the Kansai region. By the end of the day, you’ll head back to Kyoto with a full (but happy) belly!
Relax
Day 5: IZU & SHUZENJI
TEA & ONSEN OASIS
Bye, Kyoto! Up next, we’re headed to the Izu Peninsula via bullet train, where our first stop will be a local farmer's green tea plantation. We will spend some time strolling through the lush tea fields, breathing in the fragrant aromas, and sampling tea straight from the source. This is where you’ll truly appreciate the artistry and care that goes into each cup.
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Next, we’ll make our way to Shuzenji for the ultimate onsen experience, where we’ll have a chance to soak in Japan’s famous hot springs. Picture yourself walking past serene bamboo forests and temples before we check into our traditional ryokan, where you’ll unwind on tatami mats. This is your moment for some well-deserved rest and relaxation, surrounded by the peaceful ambiance of the ryokan.
immerse
Day 6 - Tokyo
TIME FOR TOKYO
With over 38 million people, Tokyo is the largest metropolis on the planet, so this morning we’re swapping serene scenes for the vibrant pulse of city life.
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To get our bearings, we’ll kick things off in Harajuku, where the streets are lined with bold street style, quirky boutiques, and shops offering everything from oversized anime plushies to rainbow-colored cotton candy bigger than your head. Then, we’ll switch gears and step into Meiji Jingu Shrine, a forested sanctuary that offers a glimpse into Tokyo’s spiritual side.
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For our first night out in Tokyo, we’re going all in with dinner and an essential Japanese experience: karaoke. You can’t visit the birthplace of karaoke without grabbing a mic and belting out a few classics—so warm up those vocal cords, pick your anthem, and get ready for a night to remember. Trust us, this one’s always a traveler favorite. 🎤
savour
Day 7 - Tokyo
LOCAL CATCH
Today is a dream for seafood lovers as we kick off the morning at Tsukiji Market, getting an insider’s look at what was once the world’s largest fish market.
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But this isn’t just a sightseeing stop—it’s a prelude to what’s coming next. After exploring the market, we’ll head to the home of one of our Tokyo friends for a hands-on cooking session, where we’ll prepare a fresh, traditional Japanese meal together. Some of our most raved-about experiences happen in local kitchens, and now you’ll see why.
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By the end of this unforgettable meal, you’ll have mastered the art of the perfect sushi roll and perfected the skill of finishing every last grain of rice. On our way back, we’ll stop by the peaceful Hamarikyu Gardens, then the evening is yours to hit Tokyo’s electric streets.
connect
Day 8 - Tokyo
TOKYO DRIFT
You could easily spend a lifetime exploring Tokyo—each of its twenty-three wards is a world of its own, filled with endless discoveries. But as our time here draws to a close, we have one last full day to soak it all in. And what better way to do that than by diving into the buzzy neighborhood of Akihabara?
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The energy here is infectious, with the sounds of arcade games, laughter, and the hum of neon lights filling the air. Whether you're battling it out with friends in a round of Mario Kart or testing your luck on a claw machine, this is the place to embrace your inner child and revel in the playful spirit of Tokyo.
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Tonight, we come together for one final meal—a chance to reminisce and raise one last Kanpai! Over delicious food and shared stories, we’ll celebrate the incredible memories we've made and the friendships that have turned fellow travelers into lifelong friends.
DISCOVER
Day 9 - Tokyo
Sayonara
Before we part ways, let’s gather for one last delicious breakfast together, savoring the memories we’ve made as a group. While our Japan adventure may be coming to a close, there’s always more of Asia to see if you have time to stick around.
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If you’re looking for a change of scenery, head to Vietnam where bustling markets and mouthwatering street food await. Thailand is another great option if you’re looking for stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife.
Regardless, we can’t wait for our next adventure together! Until next time!
FAST FACTS
about Japan
Japan is home to a rich cultural heritage steeped in tradition. Its history, spanning millennia, melds ancient practices with modern innovations. The nation reveres traditions like tea ceremonies, sumo wrestling, and cherry blossom festivals while also placing huge importance on cutting-edge technology and urban sophistication. Major cities pulse with energy, housing futuristic skyscrapers alongside historic temples.
GOod to know
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The national language is Japanese.
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The currency in Japan is the yen.
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Everything is very, very small. Though cleverly designed, expect small spaces for accommodation.
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Japan is one of the most expensive places to visit in the world, and therefore will not be a luxury trip, despite the higher costs.
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Japanese cuisine is delicious, creative, and stunning, but it will definitely challenge your palette’s comfort zone.
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Japanese culture is completely different from anything else you’ve experienced before; be ready to expand your horizons.
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This trip will offer a mix of ancient and modern, old and new.
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Manners are important in Japan and showing respect, as you would in any country.
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It is generally a quieter country, despite bustling cities and tourist-heavy areas.
Trip notes
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While we can’t guarantee private rooms, you should book your trip earlier if you prefer one, as they usually fill up.
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In Japan, you'll find everything from hotel rooms to portion sizes to be smaller.
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Public transportation: Japanese trains are very efficient, and traffic in the major cities is bad, so this whole trip is done on public transport. Try to pack lightly.
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When visiting Japan, we stay as close to historic city centers as possible. This means your accommodations will often be on the small side, quirky, and unique (we love this!).
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Cherry Blossom season usually falls between March and May.
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June is the rainy season, but it usually does not rain every day
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Seafood is a staple of Japanese cuisine and can be found in many dishes. If you are a selective eater, please be aware that meals will often include seafood.
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Note for vegetarians, vegans, and gluten-free: In Japanese culture, foods without the actual meat of an animal (such as beef broths) are considered vegetarian. This may present difficulties for travelers with dietary restrictions, as it is hard to adjust foods or find foods that don't use grains or fish. While your guide can help you understand what you're ordering, it will be up to you to do your research on foods that meet your dietary preferences. We cannot guarantee that you will be able to find meals that fit your needs during the group meals that are included.
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All activities are weather-dependent; in the unlikely event that we are unable to run an activity, we will have a suitable alternative in place.
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More information regarding visa requirements and Covid restrictions can be found here.
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If you’re interested in visiting the Ghibli Museum, a quirky walk through the works of the renowned animation studio Studio Ghibli, you’ll need to book early to reserve your spot. It's best to visit on day 8 of your trip.
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* The Japan Trip follows a 91-Day Cancellation Policy (2025) and a 95-Day Cancellation Policy (2026), different from other FTLO Trips.
flight information
Fly into OSAKA (ITM) or Kansai (KIX)
You'll need to be in Kyoto by 1 pm on Day 1. We do recommend flying in earlier to have some time to explore the city on your own!
Fly out of Haneda (HND) or Narita (NRT)
Fly out of Tokyo at any time on day 9 or extend your trip and enjoy a few more days in Japan.
Alumni Reviews
We know how much you'll love the Japan trip...
but don't take our word for it! Check out some of our alumni reviews.
LEARN MORE
Interested in learning more about our Japan trip?
Have a question? We're here to help! Whether you're curious about accommodations, accessibility, group vibe, or dietary needs, fill out the form below, and we'll get back to you ASAP.