Southern Japan Discovery

• Return international full-service flights (economy class), surcharges may apply

• 10 nights of quality hotel accommodation

• Enjoy daily breakfast

• English-speaking tour guides
• Airline taxes and surcharges

• Transportation by private air-conditioned vehicles
• One-way ferry from Kyushu to Shikoku

• Return airport transfers

All of the above, plus the following:

• One-way international flight from Osaka to Taipei (low-cost carrier may be used)
• Return airport transfers
• 3 nights of 4-star hotel accommodation in Taipei
• Ride the beautiful narrow-gauge Pingxi Railroad in the mountains outside Taipei
• Visit the beautiful green mountain villages of Shifen and Jiufen
• Visit Taipei 101, the 11th-largest building in the world

• Arrive Early: Arrive up to 60 days before your tour starts (does not include hotel accommodation, meals or transfers)
• Stay Behind: Return up to 60 days after your tour concludes (does not include hotel accommodation, meals or transfers)
• Stopover Packages: Break up the long-haul flight with a stopover at a fantastic location (see checkout for details)
• Optional Tours: Optional experiences and tours are available to add to your itinerary (booked on tour directly with the guide)
• Flight Upgrades: Upgrade to Business Class (see checkout for details)
• Preferred Airline: Fly with a preferred airline (see checkout for details)

Please note: Extra charges may apply, see the Important Info section and checkout cart for fees and details

Today depart Australia on your flight to Fukuoka, Japan. Upon arrival, a tour representative will meet you at the airport to transfer you to the hotel.

Please note:
• Some travellers may depart on Day 0.

U-BELL Hotel or similar, Fukuoka

Meals included: In-Flight

This morning enjoy a sightseeing tour of Fukuoka. First up visit Yanagibashi Rengo Market, a busy market full of fresh seafood and loved by the local people of Hakata as a "pantry of Hakata". In 1916, an individual stall selling fresh fish from the Ohama market became popular and other stalls gathered around it. Afterwards visit Canal City Hakata, a large shopping and entertainment complex, that calls itself a "city within the city". Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure to explore this fascinating city.

U-BELL Hotel or similar, Fukuoka

Meals included: None

This morning, depart Fukuoka and visit Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, one of Japan's most important Shinto shrines, the head of 12,000 Tenjin shrines nationwide, and one of the top places to visit in Japan. Afterwards, head to Yanagawa - a city in southern Fukuoka Prefecture, which is often called "the city of water" and "the Venice of Kyushu" because of its 930 kilometres of waterways, which were originally built as irrigation channels using the waters of the Chikugo River. Yanagawa's canals were fortified when it was transformed into a castle town shortly before the start of the Edo period at the beginning of the 17th century.

Here you will enjoy some sightseeing and marvel at the network of canals. Continue onwards to Kumamoto, the capital of Kumamoto Prefecture and a major city on Kyushu's west coast with a population of around 750,000. The city is most famous for its castle, which is one of Japan's largest and most complete. Upon arrival, visit Kumamoto Castle before checking into your hotel for an evening at leisure.

Today you will travel approximately 120 kilometres.

Hotel Route Inn or similar, Kumamoto

Meals included: Breakfast

Today is a free day to explore Kumamoto at leisure or take part in an optional tour to Nagasaki.

Optional Activity: Nagasaki Day Tour - 14,000 JPY per person
Today head out to Nagasaki. Nagasaki was Japan's early gateway to trade with the West, and this influence still shines through in its districts of stately European-style homes and a large Christian population. The first stop is Nagasaki Peace Park, a significant memorial park, dedicated to promoting peace and remembering the victims of the atomic bombing in 1945. At the heart of the park stands the Peace Statue, a symbol of hope and anti-nuclear sentiment, and it also includes numerous monuments, sculptures, and a beautiful fountain, providing visitors with a place for reflection and remembrance. Then visit Glover Garden, a historic park and open-air museum that preserves the unique Western-style residences and gardens of early foreign settlers in the city. It offers a glimpse into the cultural exchange that took place during Japan's Meiji period and showcases well-preserved Western architecture, making it a fascinating attraction for history and architecture enthusiasts.

Travel approximately 400 kilometres.

Hotel Route Inn or similar, Kumamoto

Meals included: Breakfast

Today depart Kumamoto and travel across Kyushu to the Oita Prefecture. Along the way, visit Mount Aso, an active volcano in the centre of Kyushu, which most recently erupted in 2021 and 2016. Aso's ancient caldera ranks among the world's largest, with a diameter of up to 25 kilometres and a circumference of over 100 kilometres. Then visit Kusasenri, a vast grassy plain that offers great views of the volcanically active Nakadake Peak. Kusasenri also features a large pond and horses can be seen grazing on the land.

Continue onwards to the onsen town of Yufuin where you can enjoy some time at leisure before arriving in Oita/Beppu and checking into your hotel accommodation.

Today you will travel approximately 150 kilometres

Amanek Hotel or similar, Oita/Beppu Area

Meals included: Breakfast

Today board a ferry to Yawatahama on the neighboring island of Shikoku and continue onwards to Masuyama which is the capital of the Ehime Prefecture. Along the way visit Ozu City. The city emerged during the Edo Period (1603-1867) as a castle town. A section of the old town remains today with nostalgic alleys and old-fashioned houses, serving as remembrance both to the days of the Edo Period and the Meiji Period (1868-1912). Here many of the old buildings have been run down, but now are being restored to their former glory by new and returning residents. Here you will have the opportunity to visit two beautifully restored properties - Bansenso Villa and the beautiful Garyu Sanso teahouse which overlooks the Hijikawa River below.

Continue onwards to Matsuyama and check into your hotel where you will enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure to explore the largest city in Shikoku. If time permits, you can make your own way to visit Dogo Onsen - one of Matsuyama's main tourist attractions as it is home to one of Japan's oldest hot spring resorts.

Today you will travel approximately 200 kilometres.

Comfort Hotel or similar, Matsuyama

Meals included: Breakfast

This morning depart Matsuyama and travel onwards to the Kurushima Strait where you will find the Kurushima-Kaikyo Bridge which connects the island of Oshima to Shikoku. This extremely impressive suspension bridge was the world's longest suspension bridge at the time of its completion in 1999. This bridge forms part of the Shimanami Kaidō (Nishiseto Expressway) that connects Hiroshima Prefecture on the main island of Honshu with Ehime Prefecture in Shikoku and spans over 9 of the Geiyo Islands and the Seto Inland Sea across numerous bridges. Here you will cross the Kurushima-Kaikyo Bridge and arrive at Oshima Island where you will enjoy a boat ride around the numerous islands and bridges on this strait which is also famous for its whirlpools.

On this boat ride you will also visit the Hatohama Shipyards which are the largest ship-building yards in all of Japan. After your boat ride, enjoy a lunch stop (not included) at Roadside Station Yoshiumi Iki-iki-kan on Oshima Island which is famous for its fresh seafood BBQ. Afterwards, continue onwards through the middle of Shikoku, through lush hills and valleys, before arriving at the city of Kochi on the southern side of Shikoku. Here you will check into your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure.

Today you will travel approximately 170 kilometres.

Orient Hotel or similar, Kochi

Meals included: Breakfast

This morning enjoy a walk around Kochi Castle. Constructed at the beginning of the 17th century, Kochi’s castle is the only one in Japan where the original castle tower and main keep remain intact. After centuries of surviving wars, fires, and other catastrophes, it is one of the last twelve original castles in Japan and is designated an Important National Cultural Property. Keep an eye out for all of the intricate details of the castle architecture, like the statues of the legendary shachi sea creatures (half fish, half dragon), gazing down on the city from the roof.

Afterwards, travel onwards to the Iya Valley, a remote mountainous valley famous for its steep mountain slopes, beautiful green forests and crystal clear rivers. Here you will visit the famous and ancient Kazurabashi Vine Bridge which is built out of tree vines and traverses the valley below. The bridge itself is tied to the legend of the Heike clan, once the most powerful ruling clan, who fled into these mountains from their enemies. This bridge was once the only way to cross over the deep canyons in this area and was built with vines that are easy to cut in case of enemy pursuit. Nowadays, the bridge remains an important National and Prefectural folk cultural asset, and visitors come from all around Japan to test their courage and cross. The vines are safe and sturdy and are replaced once every three years. Afterwards, continue onwards to the city of Takamatsu in Kagawa Prefecture, which is Shikoku' second largest city.

On the way, visit the Konpira Grand Theater (Kabuki) and enjoy a short guided tour of this historical building. Built in 1835, Kanamaruza is Japan’s oldest surviving complete kabuki theatre. The nearby Konpira Daigongen (now known as Kotohiragu Shrine or Konpira-san) became a site of national pilgrimage in the middle of the Edo period (eighteenth century), drawing visitors to Kotohira from all over Japan. Kabuki and other forms of entertainment had been provided for these pilgrims several times a year in a temporary playhouse. As the town developed and expanded at the base of the shrine, the Konpira Grand Theater was constructed as a permanent kabuki theatre to entertain the pilgrims. Renamed Kanamaruza around 1900, it has been known affectionately by that name ever since. Finish the day in Takamatsu and here you will check into your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Today you will travel approximately 200 kilometres.

Hotel Route Inn or similar, Takamatsu

Meals included: Breakfast

Today is free at leisure to explore Takamatsu, or you can take part in an optional tour.

Optional Tour: Naoshima Art Island - 20,000 JPY per person
Naoshima is an island in Japan’s Seto Inland Sea, part of Kagawa Prefecture. The island is best known for its contemporary art museums, architecture and sculptures. This tour includes return bus and ferry transfers and a local English-speaking guide to show you around this fascinating place.

Hotel Route Inn or similar, Takamatsu

Meals included: Breakfast

This morning you will visit Ritsurin Garden, the largest cultural property garden in all of Japan, and is an important cultural asset that has been maintained for nearly 400 years. The spacious park features many ponds, hills, historic trees and beautiful pavilions divided into a Japanese-style garden in the south and a Western-style garden in the north. The gardens are set in front of wooded Mt. Shiun which serves as a wonderful background and a great example of borrowed scenery. Afterwards, travel onwards to Osaka. Upon arrival, enjoy some time at leisure in the famous Shinsaibashi and Dotonbori shopping/entertainment districts. Finish the day at your hotel where you may enjoy the remainder of the evening at leisure.

Today you will travel approximately 200 kilometres.

Please note: Due to the Osaka Expo which will be running from April to October 2025, TripADeal is unable to guarantee central accommodation in Osaka. This means you may stay on the outskirts of Osaka or near the airport. Touring and sightseeing within the Osaka Region may need to also be adjusted to accommodate previously unannounced road closures or events related to the Osaka Expo during this period.

The Premium Hotel Rinku or similar, Osaka

Meals included: Breakfast

Today, at the appropriate time you will be transferred for your return flight home to Australia. Please note:
• Standard check-out time is 10:00.
• Some flights may depart in the evening, and luggage storage will be available at reception.

Meals included: Breakfast; In-Flight

Meals included: None

Today depart Australia on your flight to Fukuoka, Japan. Upon arrival, a tour representative will meet you at the airport to transfer you to the hotel.

Please note:
• Some travellers may depart on Day 0.

U-BELL Hotel or similar, Fukuoka

Meals included: In-Flight

This morning enjoy a sightseeing tour of Fukuoka. First up visit Yanagibashi Rengo Market, a busy market full of fresh seafood and loved by the local people of Hakata as a "pantry of Hakata". In 1916, an individual stall selling fresh fish from the Ohama market became popular and other stalls gathered around it. Afterwards visit Canal City Hakata, a large shopping and entertainment complex, that calls itself a "city within the city".
Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure to explore this fascinating city.

U-BELL Hotel or similar, Fukuoka

Meals included: Breakfast

This morning, depart Fukuoka and visit Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, one of Japan's most important Shinto shrines, the head of 12,000 Tenjin shrines nationwide, and one of the top places to visit in Japan. Afterwards, head to Yanagawa - a city in southern Fukuoka Prefecture, which is often called "the city of water" and "the Venice of Kyushu" because of its 930 kilometres of waterways, which were originally built as irrigation channels using the waters of the Chikugo River. Yanagawa's canals were fortified when it was transformed into a castle town shortly before the start of the Edo period at the beginning of the 17th century.

Here you will enjoy some sightseeing and marvel at the network of canals. Continue onwards to Kumamoto, the capital of Kumamoto Prefecture and a major city on Kyushu's west coast with a population of around 750,000. The city is most famous for its castle, which is one of Japan's largest and most complete. Upon arrival, visit Kumamoto Castle before checking into your hotel for an evening at leisure.

Today you will travel approximately 120 kilometres.

Hotel Route Inn or similar, Kumamoto

Meals included: Breakfast

Today is a free day to explore Kumamoto at leisure or take part in an optional tour to Nagasaki.

Optional Activity: Nagasaki Day Tour - 14,000 JPY per person
Today head out to Nagasaki. Nagasaki was Japan's early gateway to trade with the West, and this influence still shines through in its districts of stately European-style homes and a large Christian population. The first stop is Nagasaki Peace Park, a significant memorial park, dedicated to promoting peace and remembering the victims of the atomic bombing in 1945. At the heart of the park stands the Peace Statue, a symbol of hope and anti-nuclear sentiment, and it also includes numerous monuments, sculptures, and a beautiful fountain, providing visitors with a place for reflection and remembrance. Then visit Glover Garden, a historic park and open-air museum that preserves the unique Western-style residences and gardens of early foreign settlers in the city. It offers a glimpse into the cultural exchange that took place during Japan's Meiji period and showcases well-preserved Western architecture, making it a fascinating attraction for history and architecture enthusiasts.

Travel approximately 400 kilometres.

Hotel Route Inn or similar, Kumamoto

Meals included: Breakfast

Today depart Kumamoto and travel across Kyushu to the Oita Prefecture. Along the way, visit Mount Aso, an active volcano in the centre of Kyushu, which most recently erupted in 2021 and 2016. Aso's ancient caldera ranks among the world's largest, with a diameter of up to 25 kilometres and a circumference of over 100 kilometres. Then visit Kusasenri, a vast grassy plain that offers great views of the volcanically active Nakadake Peak. Kusasenri also features a large pond and horses can be seen grazing on the land. Continue onwards to the onsen town of Yufuin where you can enjoy some time at leisure before arriving in Oita/Beppu and checking into your hotel accommodation.

Today you will travel approximately 150 kilometres.

Amanek Hotel or similar, Oita/Beppu Area

Meals included: Breakfast

Today board a ferry to Yawatahama on the neighboring island of Shikoku and continue onwards to Masuyama which is the capital of the Ehime Prefecture. Along the way visit Ozu City. The city emerged during the Edo Period (1603-1867) as a castle town. A section of the old town remains today with nostalgic alleys and old-fashioned houses, serving as remembrance both to the days of the Edo Period and the Meiji Period (1868-1912). Here many of the old buildings have been run down, but now are being restored to their former glory by new and returning residents.

Here you will have the opportunity to visit two beautifully restored properties - Bansenso Villa and the beautiful Garyu Sanso teahouse which overlooks the Hijikawa River below. Continue onwards to Matsuyama and check into your hotel where you will enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure to explore the largest city in Shikoku. If time permits, you can make your own way to visit Dogo Onsen - one of Matsuyama's main tourist attractions as it is home to one of Japan's oldest hot spring resorts.

Today you will travel approximately 200 kilometres.

Comfort Hotel or similar, Matsuyama

Meals included: Breakfast

This morning depart Matsuyama and travel onwards to the Kurushima Strait where you will find the Kurushima-Kaikyo Bridge which connects the island of Oshima to Shikoku. This extremely impressive suspension bridge was the world's longest suspension bridge at the time of its completion in 1999. This bridge forms part of the Shimanami Kaidō (Nishiseto Expressway) that connects Hiroshima Prefecture on the main island of Honshu with Ehime Prefecture in Shikoku and spans over 9 of the Geiyo Islands and the Seto Inland Sea across numerous bridges. Here you will cross the Kurushima-Kaikyo Bridge and arrive at Oshima Island where you will enjoy a boat ride around the numerous islands and bridges on this strait which is also famous for its whirlpools. On this boat ride you will also visit the Hatohama Shipyards which are the largest ship-building yards in all of Japan. After your boat ride, enjoy a lunch stop (not included) at Roadside Station Yoshiumi Iki-iki-kan on Oshima Island which is famous for its fresh seafood BBQ. Afterwards, continue onwards through the middle of Shikoku, through lush hills and valleys, before arriving at the city of Kochi on the southern side of Shikoku. Here you will check into your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure. Today you will travel approximately 170 kilometres.

Orient Hotel or similar, Kochi

Meals included: Breakfast

This morning enjoy a walk around Kochi Castle. Constructed at the beginning of the 17th century, Kochi’s castle is the only one in Japan where the original castle tower and main keep remain intact. After centuries of surviving wars, fires, and other catastrophes, it is one of the last twelve original castles in Japan and is designated an Important National Cultural Property. Keep an eye out for all of the intricate details of the castle architecture, like the statues of the legendary shachi sea creatures (half fish, half dragon), gazing down on the city from the roof. Afterwards, travel onwards to the Iya Valley, a remote mountainous valley famous for its steep mountain slopes, beautiful green forests and crystal clear rivers. Here you will visit the famous and ancient Kazurabashi Vine Bridge which is built out of tree vines and traverses the valley below. The bridge itself is tied to the legend of the Heike clan, once the most powerful ruling clan, who fled into these mountains from their enemies. This bridge was once the only way to cross over the deep canyons in this area and was built with vines that are easy to cut in case of enemy pursuit. Nowadays, the bridge remains an important National and Prefectural folk cultural asset, and visitors come from all around Japan to test their courage and cross. The vines are safe and sturdy and are replaced once every three years. Afterwards, continue onwards to the city of Takamatsu in Kagawa Prefecture, which is Shikoku' second largest city. On the way, visit the Konpira Grand Theater (Kabuki) and enjoy a short guided tour of this historical building. Built in 1835, Kanamaruza is Japan’s oldest surviving complete kabuki theatre. The nearby Konpira Daigongen (now known as Kotohiragu Shrine or Konpira-san) became a site of national pilgrimage in the middle of the Edo period (eighteenth century), drawing visitors to Kotohira from all over Japan. Kabuki and other forms of entertainment had been provided for these pilgrims several times a year in a temporary playhouse. As the town developed and expanded at the base of the shrine, the Konpira Grand Theater was constructed as a permanent kabuki theatre to entertain the pilgrims. Renamed Kanamaruza around 1900, it has been known affectionately by that name ever since. Finish the day in Takamatsu and here you will check into your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. Today you will travel approximately 200 kilometres.

Hotel Route Inn or similar, Takamatsu

Meals included: Breakfast

Today is free at leisure to explore Takamatsu, or you can take part in an optional tour.

Optional Tour: Naoshima Art Island - 20,000 JPY per person
Naoshima is an island in Japan’s Seto Inland Sea, part of Kagawa Prefecture. The island is best known for its contemporary art museums, architecture and sculptures. This tour includes return bus and ferry transfers and a local English-speaking guide to show you around this fascinating place.

Hotel Route Inn or similar, Takamatsu

Meals included: Breakfast

This morning you will visit Ritsurin Garden, the largest cultural property garden in all of Japan, and is an important cultural asset that has been maintained for nearly 400 years. The spacious park features many ponds, hills, historic trees and beautiful pavilions divided into a Japanese-style garden in the south and a Western-style garden in the north. The gardens are set in front of wooded Mt. Shiun which serves as a wonderful background and a great example of borrowed scenery. Afterwards, travel onwards to Osaka. Upon arrival, enjoy some time at leisure in the famous Shinsaibashi and Dotonbori shopping/entertainment districts. Finish the day at your hotel where you may enjoy the remainder of the evening at leisure.

Today you will travel approximately 200 kilometres.

Please note: Due to the Osaka Expo which will be running from April to October 2025, TripADeal is unable to guarantee central accommodation in Osaka. This means you may stay on the outskirts of Osaka or near the airport. Touring and sightseeing within the Osaka Region may need to also be adjusted to accommodate previously unannounced road closures or events related to the Osaka Expo during this period.

The Premium Hotel Rinku or similar, Osaka

Meals included: Breakfast

Today, at the appropriate time you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight to Taipei in Taiwan. On arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel where you may enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

FX Hotel or similar, Taipei

Meals included: Breakfast

This morning depart Taipei and travel to the nearby Pingxi district where you will enjoy a quick ride along the Pingxi Branch Line - a 12-kilometre- stretch of narrow-gauge railroad that runs alongside the Keelung River. Taking a ride on the Pingxi Line is like taking a step back in time and is one of the most popular day trips from Taiwan. Step off the train in the town of Shifen, which is a popular town for launching sky lanterns. Sky lanterns are a Taiwanese tradition and Pingxi district is one of the only places where you are allowed to launch them. Paper lanterns inscribed with one's hopes for the coming year are launched into the sky and the preferred place to launch them is right on the tracks which makes for some great people watching.

Here you will have the opportunity to launch a sky lantern (4 travellers to one sky lantern). Afterwards, continue to the small mountainous village of Jiufen, made famous largely due to its similarity to the village in Spirited Away, arguably Hayao Miyazaki’s most popular movie. Here you will enjoy time at leisure to explore Jiufen and have lunch (not included). We suggest you explore the picturesque Old Street which is a narrow alleyway lined up with small food stalls, tea houses, souvenir shops, and pottery stores.

The most picturesque tea house in Jiufen is A-Mei Teahouse. This multi-story teahouse is strategically located just a little off the main street, perched on top of a hill. From their balcony, you can admire the picturesque view in front of you, Keelung Mountain to the right and the Northern shores of Taiwan to the left.

Continue back to Taipei and enjoy a stop at Taipei 101 which was the tallest building in the world from 2004 to 2010 at 508 metres high. Here you can explore the mall at the base, or optionally take a ride up to the observatory (ticket not included). Finish the day back at your hotel for an evening at leisure.

Please note: The Pingxi train line is subject to schedule changes and cancellations, in the event the train is not operating a coach transfer will be provided instead.

FX Hotel or similar, Taipei

Meals included: Breakfast

Today is yours at leisure to explore the city of Taipei.

FX Hotel or similar, Taipei

Meals included: Breakfast

Today, at the appropriate time, be transferred to the airport for your return flight home to Australia (or New Zealand).

Please note:
• Standard check-out time is 10:00.
• Some flights may depart in the evening, and luggage storage will be available at reception so travellers may explore Taipei at leisure before departure.

Meals included: Breakfast; In-Flight

Meals included: None

After purchase, you will receive a receipt and a Purchase Confirmation, directing you to an online Passenger Information Form. You must complete the Passenger Information Form within 72 hours of purchase.

Any special requests, preferences and optional extras MUST be clearly stated in your Passenger Information Form. Any change requested after submitting your Passenger Information Form cannot be guaranteed, is strictly subject to availability and will incur surcharges as outlined in the Schedule of Fees below.

On purchasing this Travel Offer, you are bound by the General Terms and Conditions and the specific terms and conditions outlined in this Important Information.

Please note: All countries and territories have different entry requirements in relation to vaccinations, quarantine/isolation periods and travel restrictions. Due to the evolving nature, we would ask all of our customers to monitor, meet and adhere to the specific requirements of their intended destination(s) in the lead-up to and immediately before travel, as well as any requirements post-travel upon their return.

Cancellation and Refund Policy
By placing a booking with us, you acknowledge the following important information:
• we act as your booking agent: TripADeal is a booking services provider, and curates the Travel Offers available on our website. We act as your booking agent, and we receive payment for the Booking Services as part of the booking price, however, we do not provide any of the Travel Services (flights, accommodation, tours or other products or services) included in your booking – the Travel Services are provided by a number of third party Travel Suppliers.
• each booking is unique: our Travel Offers are made up of a variety of different components and are, during the booking process, uniquely tailored to suit your requirements, for example, departure dates and ports, flight and room upgrades, tour inclusions, etc.
• changes/modifications to your booking may not be possible: once your booking has been made, changes or modifications may not be possible, and where possible, may incur a fee. It is important to ensure that the information you provide during the booking process is accurate and up to date, and that you read the Travel Offer carefully before placing your order.
• Travel Offers are a package: our Travel Offers have been curated into package offerings and must be used as a package – individual components cannot be used independently of the full package offering.
• our Travel Offers are generally non-refundable: in order to provide great value Travel Offers, we work with a variety of Travel Suppliers to find the best deals – this often means the Travel Suppliers’ offerings are non-refundable to ensure the best price. We recommend that you obtain travel insurance as soon as you make a booking with us.

To read more about our Cancellation and Refund Policy, please click here.

General Terms & Conditions
By placing your booking with us, you acknowledge and agree to our Terms & Conditions, Privacy Policy and Cancellation Policy.

This travel offer is valid for travel on selected dates until the 25th March 2026.

Minimum group size 20, maximum group size 40 per vehicle.

This travel offer is priced per person based on a twin share.

Departure Dates
March to June 2025
2025
March 5**, 19^^
May 7, 14, 21, 28
June 4, 11
 
August 2025 to March 2026
2025
August 20
September 3, 17
October 8*, 22*
November 5, 19
 
2026
February 18
March 4, 18^, 25^

Please note: See checkout for live dates and availability.

Surcharges
• Dates/months with a * incur a high season surcharge of $200 per person.
• Dates/months with a ** incur a high season surcharge of $300 per person.
• Dates/months with a ^ incur a high season surcharge of $400 per person.
• Dates/months with a ^^ incur a high season surcharge of $750 per person.
Please note:
• The 19 March 2025 will incur a higher surcharge of $800 for Itinerary 2 (Taiwan Extension)
• The 7 May 2025 will incur a higher surcharge of $450 for Itinerary 2 (Taiwan Extension)

Single Traveller Supplement
For solo travellers, a mandatory single supplement applies.
• 12-Day Itinerary 1: $950
• 15-Day Itinerary 2: $1,170
Please note: Accommodation for single customers who are travelling on a tour or cruise package may be in a single room, depending on availability.

Child Policy
• No child discounts. The full price applies to all children travelling with their parents.
• Valid for children 8 years old and over.
Please note: Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult 18 years old and over to travel. No unaccompanied minors are allowed.

Departure Cities
Sydney, *Melbourne, *Brisbane, *Adelaide, Perth, *Auckland

Departure City Surcharges
• Melbourne: $100 per person
• Brisbane: $200 per person
• Adelaide: $300 per person
• Auckland: $450 per person

International Full Service Flight(s)
• Cabin Class: Economy Class
Please note:
• If purchasing the Taiwan extension, low cost carriers may be used for the Osaka to Taipei flight, and meals and entertainment are not guaranteed.
• We cannot accommodate one-way flights. Travellers must take all included flights within the package and any flights intentionally forfeited will result in later flights being subject to cancellation.

Baggage Allowance
1 x 20kg of checked baggage
1 x 7kg of carry on baggage

Preferred Airline Surcharge
• Cabin Class: Economy Class
• Singapore Airlines : $315 per person
Please note:
• Preferred airlines are subject to availability. If we are unable to fulfil your request, the above extra cost will be refunded.
• On any upgrade purchase, short-haul flights and domestic flight sectors are not guaranteed, subject to aircraft configuration.
• In the event that a purchased stopover package and a purchased preferred airline upgrade are not compatible, you will have the option to receive a refund for the preferred airline upgrade or be offered an alternative stopover city option, e.g if you choose to fly with Singapore Airlines you cannot stopover in Dubai.
• Preferred airline refers to the marketing carrier and could include codeshare partners.

Arrive Early & Stay Behind Options
Arrive Early
Fukuoka, Japan - From $300 per person, subject to availability.
Tokyo, Japan - From $300 per person, subject to availability (only available for purchase over the phone).

Stay Behind
Osaka, Japan - From $300 per person, subject to availability (12-day package only).
Taipei, Taiwan - From $300 per person, subject to availability (15-day extension package only).

Please note:
• This fee does not include extra nights' accommodation, meals or airport transfers.
• If you select to Arrive Early or Stay Behind in a city other than the one where the tour starts or ends, the package will include an internal flight to your destination. If you wish to forfeit this flight, please advise our friendly team at the time of purchase. Please note that the cost does not change when you choose to forfeit your connecting flight.
• Flight booking changes or cancellations after air tickets have been issued are not guaranteed and may incur additional fees and fare difference, subject to the airline cancellation and change policies.
• Flight changes are subject to availability at the time of booking.
• A high-season Arrive Early or Stay Behind can be purchased for an additional charge, subject to availability. For pricing, please refer to the cart.
• An Arrive Early or Stay Behind can only be booked up to 60 days prior to your package’s start date, or after your package's end date. Should you wish to arrive earlier or stay behind for more than 60 days, please contact us to request availability. Additional costs may apply.
• High season surcharges apply to flights departing between the below date ranges:
6 December 2024 - 31 January 2025
28 March 2025 - 27 April 2025
16 June 2025 - 20 July 2025
15 September 2025 - 12 October 2025
1 December 2025 - 31 January 2026
3 April 2026 - 20 April 2026
26 June 2026 - 17 July 2026
18 September 2026 - 9 October 2026
12 December 2026 - 26 January 2027

Stopover Packages
• Hong Kong
Includes:
• 2, 3 or 5 nights in 4-star accommodation
• Daily breakfast
• Return airport transfers
For pricing, please refer to the payment cart at checkout.
Please note:
• When a pre and post-tour stopover is chosen, the same stopover location must be chosen each way, due to the airline used.
• When selecting an Arrive Early or Stay Behind in conjunction with a Stopover Package, the stopover will take place after the departure date you select for your Arrive Early or Stay Behind.
• Stopover packages are subject to availability.
• In the event that a purchased stopover package and a purchased preferred airline upgrade are not compatible, you will have the option to receive a refund for the preferred airline upgrade or be offered an alternative stopover city option, e.g if you choose to fly with Singapore Airlines you cannot stopover in Dubai.
• Blackout dates apply to flights departing between the below date ranges:
Hong Kong Rugby 7's: 27th March 2025 to 01 April 2025
Christmas and New Years Eve: 22nd December 2025 to 2nd January 2026

Flight Class Upgrades
Business Class: For pricing, please refer to the payment cart at checkout.
Please note:
• Flight upgrades are subject to availability and pricing changes (if we cannot fulfil your request, the upgrade cost will be refunded).
• On any upgrade purchase, short-haul flights and domestic flight sectors are not guaranteed

Missed Flights
If you fail to arrive for your outbound flight, you risk all flight and land arrangements in your destination being automatically cancelled by the airlines and land operator, respectively. Additional fees may apply to reinstate these services. If you miss your flight for whatever reason, please contact us as soon as possible to make arrangements.

Accommodation Used
3-Star Properties (Self-Rated)
• Fukuouka: U-BELL Hotel or similar
• Kumamoto: Hotel Route Inn or similar
• Beppu/Oita Area: Amanek Hotel or similar
• Matsuyama: Comfort Hotel or similar
• Kochi: Orient Hotel or similar
• Takamatsu: Hotel Route Inn or similar
• Osaka: The Premium Hotel Rinku or similar

4-Star Properties (Self-Rated)
• Taipei: FX Hotel or similar (15 Day Extension Package Only)

Please note: Accommodation/rooms offered are based on a lead-in room type and are subject to availability based on seasonality. In the instance a property is not available, a similar standard of accommodation will be provided. Properties will be confirmed and included in your travel pack, which you will receive 4-6 weeks before travel.

Extra Nights
Not available.
Please note: If you are interested in booking additional nights of accommodation pre or post-tour, please wait until you receive your travel documentation approximately 4-6 weeks before departure for the confirmed list of hotels. If booking your own additional accommodation directly with the hotel, please be aware that you may be required to change rooms at the start/end of your tour.

Maximum Room Capacity
2 people.

Triple Share
Not available.

Bedding Configuration
Twin or double (subject to availability).

• Day 4: Nagasaki Day Tour - 14,000 JPY per person
• Day 9: Naoshima Art Island - 20,000 JPY per person
Please note:
• Prices are based per person, are subject to availability, time permitting and weather conditions, and are payable directly to the tour operator in the currency specified
• Additional optional tours may be offered directly by the guide on tour depending on timing and availability.
• Some tours or shore excursions require minimum numbers to operate.

• Visa fees and requirements
• Domestic transfers and flights not stated in the deal offer
• Meals/beverages not stated in the deal offer
• Recommended gratuities/tipping
• Optional activities/tours
• Personal expenses
• Travel insurance
• Any costs associated with an interruption to your tour as a result of an airline schedule change or cancellation
• Mandatory city tax

Land
Gratuities (tips) are not included for the services of the tour leader (when available) and driver throughout the tour. The highly recommended tip is $10 AUD per person per day. This covers the guide/leader and the driver and will be collected on tour.

Please note: Tipping for services provided is always a matter of personal discretion; however, please be aware that many locals consider tipping part of their normal remuneration, and they may approach you for payment; there's no need to be intimidated by the request.

TOUR GUIDE VS. TOUR LEADER
Tour Guide
Often locals with intimate knowledge of an area, its culture, and history. Their role entails providing commentary, routing the tour, and seeing that people have a good time. They are a licensed, qualified expert who supplies specific information on the history, art, architecture and culture of the city/village/attraction where they are guiding the tour. The guide meets the group at the required place and leaves it at the end of the tour; they do not travel with the group.

Tour Leader
An experienced person tasked with ensuring the smooth operation of tours, as well as providing practical support to passengers throughout the whole trip. Their role primarily includes assisting with accommodation, transportation between locations, and communication with tour guides at each stop. A tour leader may provide general guidance around a city or village and offer information on the place visited on the bus. However, they are not required to have specific art, architecture, or historical knowledge. They are not allowed to provide a guided tour or commentary of a city/village/attraction once there and, if caught doing so, can be fined.

Please note: Tour leaders/guides are not a standard inclusion in all travel offers. Tour leaders/guides will only be made available when required to enhance the experience of the destination featured.

CLIMATE & AVERAGE TEMPERATURES
Shikoku and Kyushu are two of Japan's major islands, located in the southwestern region. Both islands have a temperate climate, but due to their geographical positions and topography, they experience variations in temperature and precipitation throughout the year. Here's an overview of the year-round climate for both islands:

Shikoku
Shikoku is the smallest of Japan's four main islands and has a humid subtropical climate, with distinct seasons:

Winter (December to February)
Temperatures range from 3°C to 10°C
The inland areas can get colder, especially in higher elevations, with occasional light snow.
Coastal areas, such as Kōchi and Tokushima, are milder.
Precipitation is moderate during winter, with occasional rain but little snow.

Spring (March to May)
Temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C
Pleasant, warm weather, with blooming cherry blossoms in March and April.
Rain is moderate, particularly in May.

Summer (June to August)
Temperatures rise to 25°C to 32°C
Humidity is high, and the region experiences heavy rainfall, especially in June and July (rainy season).

Autumn (September to November)
Temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C
Cooler, pleasant weather with fewer rainy days
Autumn foliage is vibrant in higher elevations.

Kyushu
Kyushu, the southernmost of Japan's main islands, has a warmer climate than Shikoku, with milder winters and hotter summers. It is also influenced by the East China Sea.

Winter (December to February)
Temperatures range from 5°C to 12°C
The northern parts (Fukuoka and Nagasaki) are a bit cooler, while the southern regions (Kagoshima) are milder.
Snow is rare except in higher elevations like Mount Aso.
Precipitation is low during winter.

Spring (March to May)
Temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C
Warm, pleasant weather, with cherry blossoms blooming in March and April.
Rain increases in late spring, especially in May.
Summer (June to August):

Summer (June and July)
Temperatures range from 26°C to 35°C
Humidity is high, and Kyushu experiences significant rainfall during the rainy season.

Autumn (September to November)
Temperatures range from 15°C to 27°C
The weather becomes more comfortable after the typhoon season, with cooler temperatures and lower humidity.
Autumn foliage is beautiful in the region's many mountains and parks.

FLIGHTS
Seat Selection & Frequent Flyer Points
We do not arrange seat selection. It is essential to highlight that some airlines do not allow pre-selected seats. We strongly suggest you contact the airline directly with seating allocation requirements and/or arrive at the airport earlier to arrange your seating. While we do not add frequent flyer member details to bookings, you can do this directly with the airline once you have your flight information.

Passport Validity
Customers must provide valid passport details either at the time of purchase or no later than 45 days before the departure date. Failure to do so may result in the cancellation of the booking. Customers will be responsible for any costs and fees incurred in this instance.

COACH TOUR
Meals
For meals not included, the tour leader (when available) will offer assistance with reservations, suggestions and directions to local restaurants. It is your responsibility to notify us of any dietary requests/requirements.
Please note: We will do our best to meet your requests/requirements; however, we cannot guarantee that we will always be able to.

Luggage
You will be responsible for all your personal belongings whilst on tour. You must carry your own luggage from the vehicle to the hotel room and back to the vehicle. The driver will assist with the uploading and unloading of bags from the vehicle.

OTHER
Mobility
If you require wheelchair access please contact our friendly sales and service team to inquire on your behalf.

Fitness Level Required
A relaxed level of fitness will be required. Expect a comfortable pace of touring with a focus on leisure time and gentle activities. This may include city tours, the ability to walk up and down small flights of stairs and gentle slopes. You will be responsible for your own luggage and have the ability to board all modes of transport without assistance. Please note: Some areas may be inaccessible to wheelchairs or mobility scooters, with personal walking sticks and other aids required should they be needed. Although some assistance may be available, every traveller should be self-reliant during all aspects of their travel.

Sightseeing
Please note: If entry to a site is affected by changes in operating hours or public holiday closures, your itinerary, where possible, may be adjusted, or a similar activity will be offered in its place (subject to availability).

Shopping
Shopping overseas can be a daunting and confusing experience, especially when there is a language barrier. Please be very cautious when foreign currencies and prices are involved. If paying by credit card, please pay close attention to the amount you are being charged and keep all your receipts. Do not make any purchases you are not comfortable with or feel pressured into. If you are uncertain or need assistance with the language barrier, please seek assistance from your Tour Guide/Leader. Please refer to our Terms and Conditions regarding shopping for further information.

A tourist visa is not required for Australian or New Zealand citizens visiting Japan or Taiwan for stays of up to 90 days.

Important:
• Please start arranging your visa three weeks before departure to account for any delays due to consulate operating hours.
• Visa rules are subject to change. Please check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination/s you are visiting once you receive your travel documentation to ensure you have the most up to date information.
• It is your responsibility to be travel-ready and ensure that you are aware and comply with any destination or travel requirements, including the validity of all required travel documents.
• Passengers who are not Australian citizens must also check with the respective consulate or visa agency to determine what their visa requirements are and what personal identification is required.
• It is also important to note that some areas of employment, such as journalism, government authorities and charity organisations, may have additional restrictions in applying for visas. This may, in turn, affect the type of application required.

Embarking on your next trip is exciting, and while you hope the unexpected does not happen, it is best to be prepared. We strongly recommend you take out travel insurance when making your booking. Whether it’s a potential medical emergency, a flight cancellation, a delayed suitcase, or an unforeseen event, it's important to ensure you're adequately protected. For more information or advice visit https://www.tripadeal.com.au/travel-insurance

Voluntary Changes
This includes booking changes requested by you, including but not limited to those changes requiring an airline ticket or a Purchase Confirmation reissue.
• Changes - $100 AUD per booking and any additional charges applied by the airline/cruise company/accommodation/other travel providers.

Name Changes Due To Passenger Error
If the incorrect name has been provided, charges of $100 AUD per booking and any additional charges applied by the airline/cruise company/accommodation/other travel providers.

Supplier Fees
In the event the tour package you have purchased is unable to proceed, and/or a travel Supplier is unable to fulfil the tour due to external circumstances (Limitation of Liability e.g. a Force Majeure event), there may be a fee or amount of money that is withheld by our Suppliers and is unrecoverable. This may be due to non-refundable airline tickets, cancellation penalties with cruise cabins or unrecoverable payments with our land/accommodation partners. If refunds are not available from Suppliers, we will endeavour to obtain a travel credit on the best terms available and communicate these outcomes to you. In the event we are unable to obtain a refund or travel service credit, or part thereof, this cost is passed on to the customer as a Supplier Fee.