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Save up to $1,500* per couple! Book by 9 October 2026.
Ready to go off the beaten path? Southern Japan is calling! Trade crowds for peace in dreamy gardens, soak up centuries of Buddhist history on the Shikoku Pilgrimage, marvel at Naoshima’s mind-blowing art and melt away your worries in heavenly hot springs — all while feasting on seriously delicious southern eats. Let’s go exploring!
Multiple departures available from October - November 2027 & March - May 2028
Inclusions
Return economy-class flights from Australia to Japan. Taxes included
Airport transfers on the first and last day of tour*
Bullet train from Nagasaki to Takeo Onsen
Limited Express Train from Takeo Onsen to Arita
2 ferry journeys within Japan
All touring in air-conditioned vehicles
Accommodation
13 nights in 3-4 star hotels
2 nights at the Azumi Setoda, the reimagined family estate of a prosperous merchant, thoughtfully transformed into contemporary and serene spaces for guests. This stunning 140-year-old structure retains its cherished architectural essence, offering a unique blend of history and modern comfort.
1 night in a traditional ryokan guesthouse, Matsuyama
Meals
16 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 9 dinners, including group welcome and farewell dinners
*If not travelling on flights booked by Bunnik, a train ticket departing from Hakata Station will be provided to be used between the hotel and the airport for the departure transfer.
Itinerary
Day 1 | Depart Australia
Day 2 | Arrive Osaka
Welcome to Japan, where ancient traditions and futuristic wonders mingle in the coolest ways imaginable! Our adventure kicks off in vibrant Osaka, the country's third-biggest city and a playground for foodies, night owls and curious explorers alike. Think melt-in-your-mouth street food, dazzling neon lights and an infectious local energy that sets the tone for an unforgettable adventure.
Meals: Dinner
Day 3 | Osaka – Tokushima – Takamatsu
Travel to Tokushima and experience the vibrant culture of Shikoku with a lively Awa Odori dance performance. Explore the museum dedicated to this famous festival and gain insight into one of Japan's most celebrated traditions.
Continue to Takamatsu and visit Ritsurin Koen, Japan's largest cultural garden. Wander through tranquil landscapes of ponds, bridges, pavilions and meticulously maintained gardens before checking into your hotel and enjoying a welcome dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 4 | Naoshima Island (Benesse Art Site)
Today, travel by ferry to Naoshima, the renowned "Art Island" in the Seto Inland Sea. Famed for its world-class contemporary art, museums and outdoor installations, Naoshima offers a fascinating blend of creativity and nature.
Special Experience: Admire the many different works of art across the museums including Chichu Art Museum, Benesse House Museum, Naoshima New Museum of Art and the Art House Project.
Spend the day exploring galleries, sculptures and iconic artworks including Yayoi Kusama's famous polka-dot pumpkins.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 5 | Takamatsu (Shikoku Henro) – Kurashiki Village – Okayama
Experience part of the famed Shikoku Henro pilgrimage trail with a scenic walk between Temple 81 (Shiromine-ji) and Temple 82 (Negoro-ji), taking in beautiful mountain scenery and panoramic views.
Later, continue to Kurashiki, a charming canal-side town with preserved historical architecture, galleries and cafés. Afterwards, travel to Okayama, once an important castle town during the Edo Period.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 6 | Okayama – Onomichi – Setoda
Begin the day at Okayama Korakuen, one of Japan's Three Great Gardens, renowned for its beautifully landscaped grounds and historic significance.
Travel to Onomichi and ride the ropeway to Mount Senkoji, enjoying spectacular views over the city and Inland Sea. Continue to Setoda for a memorable two-night stay.
Special Experience: Enjoy two nights at the stunning Azumi Setoda, a beautifully reimagined family estate of a formerly affluent merchant.
This evening, savour an exceptional meal highlighting the region's fresh local produce.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 7 | Setoda
Enjoy a relaxed morning in Setoda at your leisure. Explore the town, visit local attractions or simply enjoy the peaceful island atmosphere.
This afternoon, cruise through the scenic Kurushima Strait beneath the impressive bridges of the Shimanami Kaido. Continue to Kirosan Observatory Park for panoramic views over the islands and waterways of the Seto Inland Sea before returning to Setoda for dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 8 | Setoda – Matsuyama (Shikoku Henro)
Visit Iwaya-ji Temple, one of the most spectacular temples on the Shikoku Henro pilgrimage route. Climb through forested landscapes to discover this remarkable temple dramatically built into a cliffside.
Continue to Matsuyama, home to the famous Dōgo Onsen, considered one of Japan's oldest hot springs. This evening, experience traditional Japanese accommodation and enjoy a multi-course kaiseki ryōri dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 9 | Matsuyama – Yawatahama – Beppu
Visit Matsuyama Castle, one of Japan's few surviving original castles, and enjoy panoramic views from its hilltop setting.
Later, farewell Shikoku as you board a ferry to Kyushu Island. Arrive in Beppu, famous for its hot springs and geothermal activity, and celebrate with a group dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 10 | Beppu
Discover Beppu's famous Kannawa District and the renowned "Hells of Beppu", where steam rises dramatically from mineral-rich hot springs.
Special Experience: Savour a meal of "Hell Steam Cuisine", where dishes are cooked using the mineral-rich steam from natural hot springs, intensifying their authentic flavours.
The remainder of the day is at leisure.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 11 | Beppu – Takachiho Gorge
Journey through Kyushu's stunning countryside, beginning with a walk through the peaceful Tadewara Marsh wetlands.
Continue to the breathtaking Takachiho Gorge, where dramatic volcanic cliffs, waterfalls and lush vegetation create one of Japan's most spectacular natural landscapes.
This evening, enjoy a traditional Kagura performance, showcasing ancient myths through music, dance and elaborate costumes.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 12 | Takachiho Gorge – Aso National Park – Kumamoto
Travel through the magnificent landscapes of Aso National Park. Visit Kusasenri's sweeping grasslands and the Aso Volcano Museum before taking in views of Mt Aso's active volcanic region.
Stop at Daikanbo Lookout for panoramic views across the Aso Caldera before continuing to Kumamoto.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 13 | Kumamoto
Visit Reigando Cave, where legendary swordsman Miyamoto Musashi spent his final years and wrote The Book of Five Rings.
Later, explore Kumamoto Castle, one of Japan's most impressive castle complexes, and learn about its fascinating history. The remainder of the day is free to explore at your leisure.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 14 | Kumamoto – Nagasaki
Travel by ferry to historic Nagasaki, a city shaped by centuries of international trade and cultural exchange.
Visit the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum and Peace Park for a moving insight into the city's history and resilience.
This evening, enjoy dinner before taking a cable car ride to admire Nagasaki's spectacular night views.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 15 | Nagasaki
Enjoy an orientation tour of Nagasaki, visiting Dejima, Japan's historic gateway to the outside world, and the picturesque Glover Garden.
The afternoon is yours to explore. Perhaps visit Japan's oldest Chinatown or sample local specialties including Chanpon and Sara Udon.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 16 | Nagasaki – Arita – Fukuoka
Travel aboard the Nishikyushu Shinkansen and local train through Kyushu's scenic countryside to Arita, the birthplace of Japanese porcelain.
Visit local museums and the renowned Gen-emon Kiln, learning about the artistry and traditions behind Arita ware.
Special Experience: Enjoy an elegant Arita Lunch, where every course is served on beautifully crafted, highly prized Arita porcelain.
Later, participate in a traditional tea experience before continuing to vibrant Fukuoka.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 17 | Fukuoka
Visit the Nakamaru Soy Sauce Factory and gain insight into one of Japan's most important culinary traditions.
Return to Fukuoka and explore Canal City before joining a walking tour of Hakata Old Town, Tochoji Temple and the Hakatamachiya Furusatokan Museum.
This evening, enjoy a farewell dinner with your fellow travellers and celebrate the incredible experiences shared throughout the journey.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 18 | Depart Fukuoka
Your unforgettable journey through Japan concludes today. Transfer according to your onward travel arrangements.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 19 | Arrive Australia
Arrive home with wonderful memories of Japan's fascinating culture, spectacular landscapes, outstanding cuisine and rich traditions.
*Itinerary is subject to change.
Dates/Pricing
Tour starts
Tour Ends
Per Person Twin Share
05 Oct 27
23 Oct 27
$15,245pp
02 Nov 27
20 Nov 27
$15,245pp
07 Mar 28
25 Mar 28
$15,845pp
04 Apr 28
22 Apr 28
$15,845pp
14 May 28
01 Jun 28
$15,845pp
More departure dates available, ask your Phil Hoffmann consultant for more information!
*Advertised price is based on per person twin share on 5 Oct & 2 Nov 2027 departure, correct as of 1 September 2026. Save up to $1,500 per couple is valid for travel 1 May 2027 - 30 April 2028. Single supplement applies for solo occupancy. Solo travellers can save up to $750pp. Offer is valid to 9 October 2026, unless sold out prior. Flights are based on ex Adelaide.
Booking terms and conditions apply.
*
Term and conditions apply: All pricing subject to change and availability. Advertised prices are per person twin share unless stated otherwise. Offers may be withdrawn at any time. Itineraries are subject to change. Booking Conditions and Phil Hoffmann Travel Schedule of Professionalism* applies. Please speak to your Phil Hoffmann Travel Consultant for more information.
