Four islands. One unforgettable adventure!
From the snowy peaks of Hokkaido to the volcanic landscapes of Kyushu, experience the very best of Japan on this spectacular hosted four-island journey.
Japan is a land of contrasts, where futuristic cities sit alongside ancient temples, cherry blossom valleys, volcanic peaks, and subtropical islands. Experience the energy of Tokyo, the imperial charm of Kyoto, the snow monkeys of Yudanaka, a traditional tea ceremony, and a breath-taking ride on the Shinkansen from Hakodate to Tokyo.
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Hokkaido, the northernmost and least developed of Japan’s main islands, is a paradise for nature lovers. Home to vast national parks, marshlands, and wildlife, it’s a place of spectacular beauty, from the Kushiro wetlands to Shiretoko National Park, where brown bears and sea lions can be spotted. Sapporo, the cosmopolitan island capital, makes a perfect base to explore and enjoy fresh seafood delights. Cherry blossom season peaks from mid-April to mid-May across the island.
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Honshu, Japan’s largest island, is where you’ll find most of the country’s iconic destinations: Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, Mt. Fuji, and countless hidden gems. Its five regions—Tohoku, Chubu, Kanto, Kansai, and Chugoku—offer everything from bustling cities to off-the-beaten-path adventures.
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Shikoku, the smallest island, is Japan’s spiritual heart. Hike the 88 Sacred Temples, explore forested mountains, plunging canyons, waterfalls, and relax in soothing Onsen hot springs.
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Kyushu, the southernmost island, is a dynamic mix of volcanoes, hot springs, fertile farmland, and gourmet cuisine. From citrus fruits to pork ramen, modern cities to historic treasures, Kyushu is a feast for the senses.
Tour Dates & Prices
Dates:
20 April - 15 May 2027
26 Days / 25 Nights
What's included?
All Packages Include:​
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Car hire throughout tour
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Services of an ARJ host throughout
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Detailed road book featuring maps, great drives and local attractions
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Commemorative tour rally plate
Accommodation & Travel:
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2 nights in Sapporo, Hokkaido
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1 night in Abashiri, Hokkaido
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1 night in Kushiro, Hokkaido
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1 night in Noboribetsu, Hokkaido
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2 nights in Hakodate, Hokkaido
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Shinkansen bullet train from Hakodate to Tokyo
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Transfer from Tokyo Shintakanawa Station to your hotel
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3 nights in Tokyo, Honshu
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Full-day Tokyo sightseeing tour
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1 night at Mt. Fuji
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1 night in Matsumoto, Honshu
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1 night in Kanazawa, Honshu
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3 nights in Kyoto, Honshu
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Kyoto sightseeing tour
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Traditional Japanese tea ceremony
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1 night in Yumebutai
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1 night in Matsuyama
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2 nights in Hiroshima, Shikoku
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Hiroshima sightseeing tour
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1 night in Beppu, Kyushu
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2 nights in Kagoshima, Kyushu
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2 nights in Nagasaki, Kyushu
Additional Inclusions:
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Sightseeing with admissions as per the itinerary
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Full-day excursions and guided tours included
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Breakfast each morning
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11 dinners
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Commemorative tour gilet
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Car parking at all hotels (charges may apply locally)
*All prices are based on 2 persons sharing a car and occupying a twin or double room.
Single occupancy supplement is £6,000.
Excluding Flights from £8499* per person
Including flights price available on request
Hotels
JR Tower Nikko Hotel
Located in the heart of Sapporo, just a short stroll from Odori Park and the Sapporo Beer Museum, this hotel offers modern comfort and convenience. Each guest room features an ensuite bathroom, flat-screen TV, fridge, and safety deposit box.​ Dine in style with four on-site restaurants, including two on the 35th floor with panoramic views of the city. After a day of exploring, relax in the public baths or unwind in the sauna rooms.​ Additional amenities include on-site parking and complimentary WiFi for a seamless stay.
Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival in Sapporo
Day 2 At leisure in Sapporo
Day 3 Transfer to collect hire car, Sapporo to Abashiri
Day 4 Abashiri to Kushiro
Day 5 Kushiro to Noboribetsu
Day 6 Noboribetsu to Hakodate. Drop off hire car
Day 7 Day at leisure in Hakodate
Day 8 Transfer to Hakodate Railway Station & Shinkansen Bullet Train to Tokyo
Day 9 At leisure in Tokyo
Day 10 At leisure in Tokyo
Day 11 Transfer to collect hire car, Tokyo to Mount Fuji. Full day guided excursion of Mount Fuji
Day 12 Mount Fuji to Matsumoto
Day 13 Matsumoto to Kanazawa
Day 14 Kanazawa to Kyoto
Day 15 Guided Tour of Kyoto
Day 16 At leisure in Kyoto, including Tea ceremony and Maiko
Day 17 Dinner
Day 18 Kyoto to Yumebutai
Day 19 Yumebutai to Matsuyama
Day 20 Matsuyama to Hiroshima
Day 21 At leisure in Hiroshima. Half day guided tour of Hiroshima
Day 22 Hiroshima to Beppu
Day 23 Beppu to Kagoshima
Day 24 At leisure in Kagoshima
Day 25 Kagoshima to Nagasaki, via the Waimea Plains
Day 26 At leisure in Nagasaki
Departure
Approximate Total Mileage: 2400
Car Hire & Driving in Japan
To drive in Japan, you will require a 1949 International Driving Permit (IDP), which is available for a small fee (currently £5.50) and is valid worldwide for 12 months. Driving in Japan is on the left-hand side of the road. This dates back to the late 19th century, when the British assisted in building Japan’s railway system, which operated on the left, a convention that was subsequently adopted for road traffic.
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Car hire in Japan predominantly features Toyota vehicles, reflecting the brand’s extensive nationwide coverage and reliability. Your tour includes a five-door SUV, such as a Toyota Yaris Cross or Toyota Raize HEV, offering comfort, practicality, and efficiency for your journey.
Flights
All our tour prices are quoted excluding flights. This allows you the flexibility to choose your preferred departure date, airport, or even use frequent flyer points or upgrades.
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If you would like, we can provide a quote including flights. Flight-inclusive packages are arranged for Scenic Car Tours by our sister company, Success Tours (ATOL No. 5114).
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Please be aware that flight costs are estimated at the time of booking, and any changes to fares once flights go on sale may result in a flight supplement.