The Kurobe Gorge Railway offers breathtaking views of Japan’s stunning landscapes, meandering through deep gorges and lush forests. It’s a scenic journey showcasing the beauty of the Northern Alps.
The Sagana Scenic Railway in Japan features picturesque views as it travels through verdant landscapes and valleys. This charming train ride showcases the natural beauty of the Nagano Prefecture, making it a delightful experience for travellers.
Kanpachi Ichiroku is a scenic train on Kyushu Island that runs through picturesque countryside, providing stunning views of rural landscapes and seasonal scenery. It’s a relaxing way to experience the natural beauty of the region.
The bullet train, or Shinkansen, is Japan’s high-speed rail network, famous for its speed, efficiency, and punctuality. Connecting major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, it travels at speeds up to 320 km/h (200 mph). When travelling on the bullet train, your luggage will be transferred between hotels by truck. In some cases, your luggage may be delivered the next day and so an overnight bag may be required
VIEW ITINERARY DAY 1 Saturday, 13 September 2025
Depart Australia
Today we depart Brisbane. Melbourne, Sydney
and Perth on our overnight flights to Tokyo, via
Singapore.
DAY 2 Sunday, 14 September 2025
Arrive Tokyo, Japan
This morning we arrive in Tokyo and enjoy a
sightseeing tour. We see the famous Tsukiji fish
market and the Asakusa district, well-known
as a region of old Tokyo. We see the Asakusa
Kannon Temple, a Buddhist temple also known
as “Sensoji.” The temple was built in 645 A.D
with the finest Japanese architecture. We will
also visit Meiji Shrine, dedicated to the spirits of
Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken, the
shrine is a popular place for traditional Japanese
weddings. Our last stop of the day will be at the
famous Tokyo Tower. Inspired by the Eiffel Tower,
the Tokyo Tower stands at 333m tall is the second
tallest structure in Japan. This evening we enjoy a
Welcome Dinner.
DAY 3 Monday, 15 September 2025
Tokyo
Today we enjoy our first spectacular rail journey
on the outskirts of Tokyo! Operated by the JR
East Company, Sotobo Line is a railway line that
links Chiba and Kamogawa. Starting in Chiba, it
passes through some of the other cities in the
prefecture, including Oami-Shirasato, Mobara,
Isumi, and Katsuura, and offers scenic views of
the rural countryside. As it runs along the coast
and approaches Kamogawa, passengers can also
enjoy fantastic views of the Pacific Ocean.
DAY 4 Tuesday, 16 September 2025
Hakone, Japan
This morning we are transferred to the railway
station for our exciting bullet train ride on the
famous Shinkansen train to Odawara, travelling up
to 270 kmph. On arrival, we take the Hakone Tozan
Line, a sightseeing train line running from Odawara
Station in Odawara to Hakone-Yumoto Station in
Hakone. Throughout the 15-kilometre-long ride,
passengers are treated to the amazing sights of thick forested valleys and mountains, and colourful
flowers by the tracks. We are transferred to our
hotel in the late afternoon.
DAY 5 Wednesday, 17 September 2025
Gifu, Japan
Today we enjoy a cruise on the tranquil waters
of Lake Ashi, surrounded by lush greenery and
iconic views of the Hakone Shrine nestled along its
shores. In the afternoon, we take the bullet train to
Nagoya, before connecting with the local Tokaido
train onto Gifu. On arrival, we check into our hotel.
DAY 6 Thursday, 18 September 2025
Toyama, Japan
This morning we enjoy a sightseeing tour of
Gifu City. We will visit Gifu Castle for panoramic
views, see the Great Buddha Statue at Shoho
ji Temple and Yanagase Shopping Street for
local flavors. After lunch, we travel to Toyama.
The Takayama Main Line is a JR West Company
railway line that provides opportunities to enjoy
the gorgeous landscapes of the prefecture. The
journey from Gifu Station to Toyama Station
takes you on a memorable sightseeing
experience, as you pass by the impressive,
rugged mountains and valleys, and the pristine
and immaculate rivers on the way to Toyama.
DAY 7 Friday, 19 September 2025
Toyama
Run by the private railway company Kurobe
Gorge Railway, the Kurobe Gorge Main Line is a
sightseeing train that runs along the Kurobe River,
affording picture-worthy views of the mountains,
cliffs, valleys, and ravines of the Northern Japan
Alps. It covers a distance of 20 kilometres, from
Unazuki Station to Nekomata Station, passing
through dozens of tunnels and going over 20
bridges.
DAY 8 Saturday, 20 September 2025
Kyoto, Japan
Today we depart Toyama and travel to Kyoto. We’ll
take the bullet train to Tsugura and then transfer to
the Thunderbird onto Kyoto. On arrival into Kyoto,
we enjoy a sightseeing tour including Kinkakuji,
better known as the Golden Pavilion, a Zen
temple in northern Kyoto whose top two floors are
completely covered in gold leaf. Formally known as
Rokuonji, the temple was the retirement villa of the
shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, and according to his
will, it became a Zen temple of the Rinzai sect after
his death in 1408. We then visit the Philosopher’s
Path, a pleasant stone path through the northern
part of Kyoto’s Higashiyama district that follows
a canal, lined by hundreds of cherry trees (cherry
trees bloom in April).
DAY 9 Sunday, 21 September 2025
Kyoto
Today we enjoy a journey on the Sagano Scenic
Railway. A popular sightseeing train line in Kyoto,
the Sagano Scenic Railway is a 7.3-kilometer-long
line that showcases the natural beauty of this
historic city. Featuring train cars with wooden
benches and traditional designs, it runs at slower
than-usual speeds, as it follows the Hozugawa
River, to allow the passengers to take in the
magnificent scenery. Later we visit the Imperial
Palace, which was the residence of the Imperial
family until the capital was moved to Tokyo in 1869.
Within the Imperial Palace grounds, which are
enclosed by a roofed earthen wall, are the Seiryo
den (Palace Hall) and the Kogosho (Minor Palace) – reminiscent of the dynastic age.
DAY 10 Monday, 22 September 2025
Osaka, Japan
We travel to Osaka to join the Hanawa Line,
operated by JR West. It extends 63.1 kilometers
from Osaka’s Tennoji Station to Wakayama’s
Wakayama Station. Along the way, passengers
get the best seats for a glimpse of the countless
cherry trees in the valleys and mountains in this
part of the Kansai region. We return to Osaka
for a sightseeing tour including the panoramic
view of the entire city from the Floating Garden
Observatory standing in the top of Umeda Sky
Building, and stroll along the bustling Dotonbori
Shopping Area.
DAY 11 Tuesday, 23 September 2025
Fukuoka, Japan
Today we travel by bullet train to Fukuoka, the
capital of Kyushu. Fukuoka blends ancient temples
with bustling shopping districts and gourmet
delights like Hakata ramen. On arrival, we enjoy an orientation tour of the city
including the Fukuoka Castle, Tochoji Temple
to admire Japan’s largest wooden Buddha
and Kushida Shrine, home of the massive Gion
Yamakasa Festival float. We then check into our
hotel.
DAY 12 Wednesday, 24 September 2025
Beppu, Japan
A free morning to explore Fukuoka. At midday,
we embark the Kanpachi Ichiroku train for a
comfortable and scenic journey down south to
Beppu. Kick back in the cozy interiors and let
the train take you on a memorable ride through
beautiful landscapes. Lunch is served onboard
shortly after departing Fukuoka and there are
two “hospitality stations” where you can enjoy
interacting with the locals and purchasing local
specialties at the stops. On arrival into Beppu, we
check into our hotel.
DAY 13 Thursday, 25 September 2025
Kumamoto, Japan
The morning is free to explore Beppu, Japan’s hot
spring capital. Dive into rejuvenating onsens, from
steamy mud baths to soothing mineral waters,
amidst a backdrop of lush green mountains.
In the afternoon, we travel by private coach to
Kumamoto, most famous for its castle, which is
one of Japan’s largest and most complete.
DAY 14 Friday, 26 September 2025
Kagoshima, Japan
This morning we enjoy a sightseeing tour of
Kumamoto, including the castle and Kato Shrine.
After lunch, we travel to Kagoshima by bullet
train. On arrival, we check into our hotel where
we spend the next two nights.
DAY 15 Saturday, 27 September 2025
Kagoshima
Located on the southern tip of Kyushu, Ibusuki
is renowned for its volcanic sand beaches,
pristine natural landscapes, and rejuvenating
onsen. The coastal adventure truly begins
aboard the ‘Limited Express Ibusuki no
Tamatebako’, a specially crafted train for the
route to Ibusuki. The train has large windows,
offering breathtaking ocean vistas. On arrival
in Ibusuki, there is free time to explore and we
will also visit the Southernmost JR Train Station
Monument before heading back to Kagoshima.
This evening we enjoy a farewell dinner.
DAY 16 Sunday, 28 September 2025
Departure
Today we begin our journey home, flying to Tokyo
before connecting onto Brisbane, Melbourne or
Sydney.
DAY 17 Monday, 29 September 2025
Arrive Australia
Tour members arrive in Australia and tour
arrangements conclude.
| The price per person twin-share | Single Fare | Plus Air Taxes |
|---|---|---|
| $9,695 | $11,190 | $256 |
You can stay longer in Japan for minimal extra cost. Please contact Travelrite on 1800 630 343 for more information.
International touring can involve a considerable amount of walking and stair climbing in the places visited and it is important that all tour participants have a level of physical fitness that allows them to take part in this activity without the need of assistance from others.
Tour Operator: Travelrite International Pty Ltd (ABN 64 005 817 078) is the tour organiser. All passengers must complete and sign a Travelrite International booking form.
Tour Costs: The tour costs are based on train, general transport and accomm odation costs on 31 October 2024. Travelrite International reserves the right to alter the costs if any of these factors change, giving any passenger that has booked the right to withdraw with full refund of monies paid or modify arrangements. No alterations to price will be made within 60 days of departure from Australia.
Deposit and Payment: A non-refundable deposit of $900 per passenger should be sent with a completed Travelrite International booking form that lists your requested cabin category. As soon as the booking is confirmed, (usually within 24 hours), a cruise confirmation advice will be posted to the client. Final payments are due to be paid to Travelrite International 60 days prior to the commencement of the tour. A 1.5% administration fee will be added to payments made by credit card.
Cancellation Charges: Cancellations within 60 days of departure will result in the loss of all monies paid. Cancellation outside 60 days from departure will result in a cancellation fee of $900 per person. Travel insurance is recommended to cover the costs of cancellation fees due to illness, death in family, etc.
Changes To The Tour Itinerary:
Travelrite International reserves the right
to make changes to the tour itinerary or train journeys to fit in with operational
requirements. Any changes to the itinerary will be replaced with similar
arrangements with an equal or greater value.
Changes To The Tour Itinerary:
Travelrite International reserves the right
to make changes to the tour itinerary or train journeys to fit in with operational
requirements. Any changes to the itinerary will be replaced with similar
arrangements with an equal or greater value.
Refunds:
The cruise is based on arrangements which do not allow for any
refunds in respect to sightseeing, accommodation, meals or other services not
utilised after the tour has commenced.
Travel Documents:
All passengers will require a valid passport with at least
six months validity. If not an Australian passport holder check with Travelrite
International for visa requirements.
Travel Insurance: Adequate travel insurance is highly recommended to cover cruise members for the consequences of unforeseen events during the cruise and for cancellation fees which could result from events such as illness, accident, death etc.
Baggage: Passengers qualify for a 1 x 23kg free baggage allowance on flights and luggage trucks in Japan.
Minimum Tour Numbers: The tour arrangements have been made on the basis of a minimum number of passengers travelling. In the event that less than the required number of passengers have confirmed their booking 60 days from the date of departure, Travelrite International reserves the right to cancel the tour, giving a full refund of monies paid, or offer arrangements to proceed with the tour at a modified fare.
TOUR PARTICIPATION:
Children under 5 years of age are ineligible on coach & cruise tours. Children under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult. Passengers with disabilities are welcome on Travelrite & Cruise Offers tours provided they are accompanied by a companion capable of providing all necessary assistance, and do not require special assistance from Travelrite & Cruise Offers personnel. Travelrite and Cruise Offers reserves the right to refuse to carry anyone if it is felt the individual cannot cope with the requirements of coach & cruise tour travel and who may require services and facilities that Travelrite & Cruise Offers cannot guarantee will be available. You agree to not hold the Travelrite & Cruise Offers responsible for any decision made by any of them or any service provider to refuse to carry you, provide any facilities or accommodation to you or to provide any service to you.
Responsibilities: Travelrite International Pty Ltd is the tour organiser. Travelrite International Pty Ltd, its agents, officers, affiliates, and/ or suppliers of services pursuant to, or in connection with these fly/ cruises, shall act only as agents in making arrangements for hotels, transportation, including transportation by ship, restaurants, or any other service and do not assume any liability whatsoever for any injury, damage, death, loss, accident or delay to person or property due to an act of negligence or a default of any hotel, carrier restaurant company or person rendering any services included in fly/cruises, or by act of God. Further, no responsibilities are accepted for any damage or delay due to sickness, pilferage, labour disputes, machinery break-down, quarantine, government restraints, weather, terrorism or other causes beyond their control. No responsibility is accepted for any additional expense, omission, delays, re-routing or acts of any government authority. Baggage is at owners’ risk throughout the fly/cruise. The passage contract between the carriers concerned, when issued, shall constitute the sole contract between the carriers and the purchasers of this fly/cruise and/ or the passengers. The right is reserved to withdraw any fly/cruise and/or make such changes in the fly/cruises as may be found desirable or necessary for the convenience of the parties and the proper carrying out of the fly/ cruise. This contract shall be construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Victoria, Australia and any legal action must be undertaken in the State of Victoria. Attention is also directed to the terms and conditions of the Queen Victoria fly/cruise passage contract with Cunard, detailed on the Cunard website. If you do not have details of these terms please contact Travelrite International and we will send them to you.
DELAYS AND UNFORESEEN EVENTS:
You engage Travelrite International to book
this tour on your behalf and you acknowledge that Travelrite International acts
as your agent for the purpose of making contracts between you and the various
providers of accommodation, transportation and other services that comprise the tour. Travelrite International may without reference to you provide or make
available to you, or may as your agent engage any third party to provide or make
available to you, any good or service which Travelrite International reasonably
believes is necessary for your benefit to maintain the tour itinerary, repatriate
you or otherwise accommodate, transport or sustain you in circumstances
in which the tour itinerary fails wholly or partly for any reason. You appoint
Travelrite International your attorney for this purpose. You agree to pay Travelrite
International any cost thereof and you indemnify Travelrite International in
respect of any cost it incurs in this regard. Travelrite International advises you
to obtain travel insurance generally including in respect of the risk that any such
good or service may become required.
How to Book: Bookings can be made by completing a booking form and sending it with a non-refundable deposit of $900 per person to:
Travelrite International Pty Ltd
423 Whitehorse Road Balwyn, Victoria 3103
Further information can be obtained by telephoning
Toll Free: 1800 630 343
Telephone (03) 8803 6868
Email sales@travelrite.com.au
https://www.travelrite.com.au/
About Travelrite International: Travelrite International Pty Ltd (ABN 64 005 817 078) is a well-established family-owned business that’s been operating in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs for more than 40 years. Travelrite International is a full member of the Australian Federation of Travel Agents (AFTA), is fully Accredited with ATAS (A10538) and IATA. As such they directly represent the major airlines of the world and all major domestic and international hotel, tour and transport operators.
“Being part of an organised tour was a new and enjoyable experience for us. We could relax because the Tour Manager had everything organised.”
“The Tairei Gorge out of Dunedin was our favourite – it had great scenery, bridges and tunnels!”
