8 Days Southern Japan | Karatsu Kunchi Festival

  • From Osaka To Osaka
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Southern Japan | Karatsu Kunchi Festival
Karatsu Kunchi Festival
Southern Japan | Karatsu Kunchi Festival
Karatsu Kunchi Festival
Southern Japan | Karatsu Kunchi Festival
Karatsu Kunchi Festival
Southern Japan | Karatsu Kunchi Festival
Naruto Whirlpool
Southern Japan | Karatsu Kunchi Festival
Takachiho Gorge
Southern Japan | Karatsu Kunchi Festival
The Tour of Hell
Southern Japan | Karatsu Kunchi Festival
Himeji Castle
Southern Japan | Karatsu Kunchi Festival
Kyushu Movie
Southern Japan | Karatsu Kunchi Festival
Hiroshimayaki

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Tour Descriptions

Enjoy one last adventure before Winter begins during our fully escorted Southern Japan | Karatsu Kunchi Festival tour package. Start your vacation in Osaka and travel through the southern islands while seeing the best of Southern Japan. There's also the added thrills of the Karatsu Kunchi festival to keep you entertained from start to finish!
Itinerary

Osaka | Arrive in Japan & Check-in Hotel

Miyako Hotel Kyoto Hachijo ( Western Style )

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  • Trip Advisor Rating
Miyako Hotel Kyoto Hachijo

Kyoto New Miyako Hotel is in the heart of the city. Directly across from Kyoto Station, it's easy access to other location in Kyoto and Japan. The hotel has great dining options and unique boutiques. Nearby the hotel is the Nishiki Market and Ryozen Museum of History.

Near by.....
-Food Market
Nishiki Market   in 10 mins by taxi

-Museum
Ryozen Museum of History in 10 mins by taxi

View Hotel Detail

Welcome to Japan! We will have transportation services to take you to your hotel. Please refer to your tour handbook for more information.
Rest at the hotel and be ready to start your exciting tour tomorrow.

**INFORMATION**
From KIX Airport to downtown hotel in Osaka - about 70 mins (Bus)
From ITM Airport to downtown hotel in Osaka - about 30 mins (Bus)

Osaka, Hyogo & Hiroshima | The Indestructible Castle of Japan

Breakfast Dinner

Hotel Granvia Hiroshima ( Western Style )

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  • Trip Advisor Rating
Hotel Granvia Hiroshima

Hotel Granvia Hiroshima in the ideal location directry connected to JR Hiroshima Station. A great deal of sophisticated hospitality welcomes you.
Our hotel accommodates 605 guests in 403 fully-equipped guest rooms. There is no better place to stay in Hiroshima than our Hotel Granvia Hiroshima. Comfortable bed and well-cleaned room will guarantee your leisurely stay.
12 banquet rooms of our hotel enable to hold large events and meetings of great variety. The largest banquet room is capable of seating 600 at the maximum.
Moreover, 8 restaurant and bars of all kinds are available, and it is sure that you enjoy meals and time in Hiroshima.

View Hotel Detail

We will begin today by heading to Dotonburi and Kuromon Ichiba Market in Osaka. These are great locations to sample some of Osaka's famous cuisine, or to get any kitchen suplies you may need.

Next our tour bus will make a stop at Himeji-jo, or Himeji Castle. Himeji-jo is a UNESCO distinguished site, representing Japanese castle architecture at its highest with almost all of the castle structure still intact from its original construction in the early 1600’s, having survived all wars, earthquakes and natural disasters.

During our day, we will enjoy Okonomiyaki, savory Japanese pancakes that is a specialty in both Osaka and Hiroshima. We will then make our way to Hiroshima and check into our hotel.

Hiroshima | Famous Floating Shrine & The City of Peace

Breakfast

Hakata Excel Hotel Tokyu ( Western Style )

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  • Trip Advisor Rating
Hakata Excel Hotel Tokyu

Hakata Excel Hotel Tokyu is located in Nakasu, the largest shopping and amusement district in Kyushu. Just 1 minute from the subway station and 8 minutes from the Tenjin, tourists can easily access their destinations.

Near by......
-Museum
Fukuoka City Red Brick Culture Center within Walking Distance

-Shopping Arcade
Shintencho Shopping Street within Walking Distance

View Hotel Detail

Today our Japan tour begins with a visit to the iconic Itsukushima Shrine. Located off the main shore on the island of Miyajima, the iconic gate that floats is a must see. During high tide, the torii gate looks as though it is floating in water, creating a unique sight, considered one of Japan’s three most beautiful sights. Miyajima is also known for its momiji manju (maple leaf shaped cake with red beans) and oysters which you can enjoy during your time on the island.

After our visit, we will spend more time sight-seeing in Hiroshima. One of the main highlights here in Hiroshima is the A-Bomb Dome, the only surviving building from the aftermath, and the Peace Park Memorial where you can see and read about the relic of the war. The A-Bomb Dome has been preserved to be a reminder of the tragedy for future generations and to symbolize its wishes for everlasting peace. Stroll along the park to see famous attractions like that of Sadako’s statue and the freedom bell. Here you can see and read about the relic of the war.

We take a quick bullet train ride out of Hiroshima towards Saga to prepare for tomorrow's festivities!

Saga | Karatsu Festival

Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Featured Destinations & Experiences

Hotel Nikko Kumamoto ( Western Style )

  • Expedia Rating
  • Trip Advisor Rating
Hotel Nikko Kumamoto

The Hotel Nikko Kumamoto offers great deals on luxury hotel rooms and is located at the center of the city, where both the office district and Kumamoto castle are within walking distance. There are Japanese, European, and Chinese-style restaurants available for business and leisure travelers to enjoy. Hotel Nikko Kumamoto also features the largest banquet room in the city, which can be used for various events, such as business conventions and weddings.

View Hotel Detail

[ Saga Prefecture ] Karatsu Kunchi Check into Hotel

Our day begins in the city of Karatsu to enjoy the merry nature of the Katatsu Kunchi. This popular Autumn festival is celebrated at the city's shrine where fourteen teams from the different neighborhoods of Karatsu come together to carry fourteen magnificent floats. These floats date back as old as the 19th century, and are lavishly decorated, finished in gold and silver flake, in addition to the lacquer and stunning designs. The festival is marked with the sound of lively taiko drums and flutes filling the air while these massive floats are being paraded around enthusiastically for all to enjoy!

Kumamoto & Takachiho | Feel the Samurai Spirit

Breakfast Dinner
or similar

Hotel Takachiho ( Japanese Style )

  • Expedia Rating
  • Trip Advisor Rating
Hotel Takachiho

One of the most popular places to stay in Takachiho. As a Kokuminshukuha ("Peoples Lodging") they offer outstanding service and comfortable stay. There is a indoor hot spring in ground level. The hotel has great access down to Takachiho Gorge. Enjoy watching a traditional kagura performance close by at Takachiho Shrine.

Near by.......
-Gorge and Shrine
Takachiho Gorge in 15 mins by walk
Takachiho Shrine in 5 mins by walk

View Hotel Detail

Our day begins in Kumamoto to visit Kumamoto Castle. Kumamoto Castle is considered one of the three premier castles in Japan, along with Himeji Castle and Matsumoto Castle. Thirteen structures in the castle complex are designated Important Cultural Property. Several ancillary wooden buildings remain of the original castle.

Located next to the castle is the Hosokawa family Mansion, the family home for one of Japan's most powerful samurai families. Walk through the residence to get a better understanding of the life among the elites, and see some relics from the Edo period in the home-turned-museum.

Then we proceed to Takachiho. Legend states, when Susanoo, god of storm, terrorized Amaterasu, his sister and sun goddess, she hid in a cave plunging the world into darkness. The cave is called Ama-no-Iwato, the heavenly rock cave, exists in Takachiho. Before our day ends, we will enjoy watching a Yokagura show.

Beppu & Dogo | Southern Japan's Hot-Springs & Taiko Drums

Breakfast Lunch Dinner
or similar

Tsubaki-kan ( Japanese Style )

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  • Trip Advisor Rating
Tsubaki-kan

Tsubaki-kan is located in the Dogo Onsen district, its a great location for shopping and taking the trolley to visit downtown and Matsuyama Castle. The hotel in conveniently located 5 minute walk from the famous Dogo Onsen. Dogo Onsen is the oldest hot spring in Japan and is rumored to have healing qualities. The hotel provides both western and Japanese-style rooms. Everyday there is a taiko show at 9 pm in the ground floor. There is also free Wi-Fi at the lobby area.

Near by.......
-Castle & Park
Matsuyama castle 10 mins by car
The Dogo Park 12 mins by walk

View Hotel Detail

Our morning begins in the hot spring town of Beppu, where we are going for an exciting Tour of Hell. From the eight famous spots, we will visit three: the Sea Hell made up of bright cobalt blue hot water, the Blood Pond Hell where hot water containing red melted clay gushes out, and the Tornado Hell, a fiery geyser that erupts every 20 minutes.

After lunch, we will take a boat ride to Matsuyama, a castle city. Following the pattern of hot springs, we will visit one of the oldest hot springs in the world, Dogo Onsen, which is said to have over 3,000 years of history. The onsen is also widely known for welcoming the imperial family as guests and has a room called Yushinden on reserve exclusively for their use. Dogo Onsen's impressive wooden structure served as a model for the famous film Spirited Away. Enjoy an optional Rickshaw ride through the city grounds, or watch a traditional Taiko drum show in the evening (additional fee's may apply).

Takamatsu & Tokushima | The beautiful nature of Shikoku

Breakfast Lunch

Sheraton Miyako Osaka Hotel ( Western Style )

  • Expedia Rating
  • Trip Advisor Rating
Sheraton Miyako Osaka Hotel

Nearby......
(Department stores and Kabuki theater)
Kami-honmachi YUFURA Next to the Hotel
kintetsu department store Next to the Hotel
Shinkabukiza (Kami-honmachi YUFURA at 6~8F)

Airport Limousine Bus (to and from between the Hotel and Kansai International / Itami Airport )

View Hotel Detail

[ Kagawa Prefecture ] Ritsurin Garden ( Lunch - Udon
(Cooking Workshop)
) [ Tokushima ] Awaodori Kaikan
(Dance Experience)
Naruto Whirlpools * [ Osaka ] Check into Hotel *The whirlpool can only be seen at certain times of the day and thus we cannot guarantee seeing the whirlpool in action.

Our day will begin heading towards Osaka. Traveling East, we will visit one of the most beautiful gardens in Japan that overlooks Mt. Shiun, Ritsurin Garden. Michelin Green Guide graded the garden three stars and is a great place to take photos, especially from the highest point that overlooks the entire garden.

While making our way through Tokushima, we will stop at the Awa-odori Museum, a museum dedicated to the prefectural dance of Tokushima. During the annual Awa-Odori festival, thousands of spectators flock to Japan to watch the traditional dance. Enjoy learning some steps and history of Awa-odori at this great museum.

Our last stop before hitting Osaka is Naruto, a small town off the coast. Here in Naruto, many hope to observe the large Naruto whirlpools that can be seen under very ideal conditions. (*The whirlpool can only be seen at certain times of the day and thus we cannot guarantee seeing the whirlpool in action.)

Osaka | Tour Disbands & Depart from Japan

Breakfast

Your pleasant and memorable Japan tour ends today. The tour will disband after breakfast. Fly home with cherished memories or enjoy your extended stay in Japan.

**INFORMATION**
From downtown hotel in Osaka to KIX Airport - about 70 mins (Bus)
From downtown hotel in Osaka to ITM Airport - about 30 mins (Bus)

▪Important Notice▪
*JDT Recommends Experiences are not included with your tour package.
*Group Tour Participants (Not applicable to Private Tours) - Your group may be joined with other groups during the tour. If so, your tour guide and bus may be changed during your tour.
*Any special request(s) must be submitted when booking your tour (meals, accommodations, etc.). Note: Not all requests can be fulfilled.
*Itinerary, hotels, and meals are subject to change or cancellation without notice. No refund will be owed for any changes or cancellations if the tour still occurs.
*This tour includes 1.5~2 hours of walking on sightseeing days. Tour Participants are expected to be of moderate fitness, keep up with the pace of the group, and can climb stairs with no difficulty.
*B : Breakfast   L : Lunch   D : Dinner
*Please be advised that Maiko performances are not available on their designated days off or on days when special Maiko events are taking place.

Tour Departure and Prices 1) Price per person.   2) Airfare is not included.  

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8 DAYS

7 nights accommodation


14 MEALS

6 breakfasts
3 lunches
4 dinner


TRANSPORT

All transport shown
Karatsu Kunchi Festival Tour Map

Tour Includes


5 nights Western and 1 night Japanese-style hotel with hot-springs

Daily Breakfast-Buffets, 4 Lunches, and 1 Dinner included

All ground transportation in Japan during the tour

Complimentary Airport Transfers (see details)

Admission Fees, Tax & Gratuities at all included Destinations

Full time service of licensed English speaking tour guide & separate bus driver

Bullet train ride experience

Japan Deluxe Tours Handbook and Tour Goods Package

Free Wi-Fi in Bus & Most hotels

Not Included
  • - Airfare
  • - Travel Insurance
  • - Optional Excursions

Travel Highlights


A day of fun celebrating the Karatsu Kunchi Festival

Okonomiyaki - savory pancakes - a Hiroshima & Osaka Favorite

A boat ride to Miyajima to see the floating gates of Itsukushima Shrin

Admission to Ritsurin Garden, one of the best Japanese gardens in of Shikoku

Southern Japan's Dogo Onsen and Tour of Hell hot-springs

Kumamoto Castle ground access and history of the samurai

A complimentary Taiko Show during your stay in Matsuyama

Shopping for souvenirs at Tunnel Station

Southern Japan's Dogo Onsen and Tour of Hell hot-springs

Time exploring Takachiho Gorge, where Japan's myths and legends originate

Important Information


The maximum number of participants will not exceed 26 people during your Japan tour. Your group may be joined with other tour groups during the tour. Please note that your bus and tour guide may be changed if other groups join the tour.

Single travelers are required to pay a single supplement in order to guarantee single room accommodation.

We request one suitcase, one carry-on bag, and an overnight bag per person. The tote bag we provide can be used to hold any small merchandise/souvenirs purchased during your tour. When you check out, bring your luggage to the lobby and the bus driver will assist in loading it onto the bus. When you arrive at the next hotel, the bus driver will unload your luggage for you to bring to your room.

Please note: The maximum weight of a checked in bag is typically 20 Kilograms or 44 Pounds. You will be traveling with your luggage except during the bullet train ride (if applicable).

All hotel rooms come with a full bathroom and room amenities free of charge unless stated otherwise.

All motor coaches come equipped with air-conditioning, plenty of space, comfortable seats, and Wi-Fi.

All of our tours begin in either Tokyo or Osaka/Kyoto. When beginning or ending a tour in Tokyo, please book flights to or from Narita International Airport or Haneda International Airport. For tours beginning or ending in Osaka/Kyoto, please book flights to or from Kansai International Airport or Itami Airport.

We recommend you do not book your flights until the tour status changes from Book Now to Guaranteed Departure. You can also contact us if you would like for Japan Deluxe Tour's to arrange your flights.

Traveling and visiting sights in Japan includes a good amount of walking. To fully enjoy the tour, please be prepared to keep up with the pace of the group, climb stairs with no difficulty, and wear comfortable shoes for all day use.

Guests with tattoos may not be able to use the hot-springs or onsens while in Japan. We apologize if you are unable to enjoy this experience during your stay.

We understand sometimes unanticipated situations may arise before or even during your Japan tour. In order to best assist you when things don't go as planned, Japan Deluxe Tours recommends purchasing travel insurance offered through Travel Guard® Insurance.

Travel Guard® Insurance offers coverage for: Trip Cancellation, Trip Interruption, Travel Delay, Baggage Delay, Medical Expense (deductible required), Emergency Medical Transportation, and an Exclusive Family Protection Plan: One child 16 or under will receive coverage at no additional cost for every adult that purchase a protection plan. Every Travel Guard policy includes 24-hour emergency travel assistance services for emergencies or last-minute travel changes, such as re-booking flights, hotel reservations or ground transportation, tracking lost luggage, and more!
For more information about coverage, view our Travel Insurance Page.

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Day
Day 1

Osaka | Arrive in Japan & Check-in Hotel

Welcome to Japan! We will have transportation services to take you to your hotel. Please refer to your tour handbook for more information.
Rest at the hotel and be ready to start your exciting tour tomorrow.

**INFORMATION**
From KIX Airport to downtown hotel in Osaka - about 70 mins (Bus)
From ITM Airport to downtown hotel in Osaka - about 30 mins (Bus)

Day 2

Osaka, Hyogo & Hiroshima | The Indestructible Castle of Japan

Breakfast Dinner

We will begin today by heading to Dotonburi and Kuromon Ichiba Market in Osaka. These are great locations to sample some of Osaka's famous cuisine, or to get any kitchen suplies you may need.

Next our tour bus will make a stop at Himeji-jo, or Himeji Castle. Himeji-jo is a UNESCO distinguished site, representing Japanese castle architecture at its highest with almost all of the castle structure still intact from its original construction in the early 1600’s, having survived all wars, earthquakes and natural disasters.

During our day, we will enjoy Okonomiyaki, savory Japanese pancakes that is a specialty in both Osaka and Hiroshima. We will then make our way to Hiroshima and check into our hotel.

Hotel Granvia Hiroshima or similar

Day 3

Hiroshima | Famous Floating Shrine & The City of Peace

Breakfast

Today our Japan tour begins with a visit to the iconic Itsukushima Shrine. Located off the main shore on the island of Miyajima, the iconic gate that floats is a must see. During high tide, the torii gate looks as though it is floating in water, creating a unique sight, considered one of Japan’s three most beautiful sights. Miyajima is also known for its momiji manju (maple leaf shaped cake with red beans) and oysters which you can enjoy during your time on the island.

After our visit, we will spend more time sight-seeing in Hiroshima. One of the main highlights here in Hiroshima is the A-Bomb Dome, the only surviving building from the aftermath, and the Peace Park Memorial where you can see and read about the relic of the war. The A-Bomb Dome has been preserved to be a reminder of the tragedy for future generations and to symbolize its wishes for everlasting peace. Stroll along the park to see famous attractions like that of Sadako’s statue and the freedom bell. Here you can see and read about the relic of the war.

We take a quick bullet train ride out of Hiroshima towards Saga to prepare for tomorrow's festivities!

Hakata Excel Hotel Tokyu or similar

Day 4

Saga | Karatsu Festival

Breakfast Lunch Dinner
[ Saga Prefecture ] Karatsu Kunchi Check into Hotel

Our day begins in the city of Karatsu to enjoy the merry nature of the Katatsu Kunchi. This popular Autumn festival is celebrated at the city's shrine where fourteen teams from the different neighborhoods of Karatsu come together to carry fourteen magnificent floats. These floats date back as old as the 19th century, and are lavishly decorated, finished in gold and silver flake, in addition to the lacquer and stunning designs. The festival is marked with the sound of lively taiko drums and flutes filling the air while these massive floats are being paraded around enthusiastically for all to enjoy!

Hotel Nikko Kumamoto or similar

Day 5

Kumamoto & Takachiho | Feel the Samurai Spirit

Breakfast Dinner

Our day begins in Kumamoto to visit Kumamoto Castle. Kumamoto Castle is considered one of the three premier castles in Japan, along with Himeji Castle and Matsumoto Castle. Thirteen structures in the castle complex are designated Important Cultural Property. Several ancillary wooden buildings remain of the original castle.

Located next to the castle is the Hosokawa family Mansion, the family home for one of Japan's most powerful samurai families. Walk through the residence to get a better understanding of the life among the elites, and see some relics from the Edo period in the home-turned-museum.

Then we proceed to Takachiho. Legend states, when Susanoo, god of storm, terrorized Amaterasu, his sister and sun goddess, she hid in a cave plunging the world into darkness. The cave is called Ama-no-Iwato, the heavenly rock cave, exists in Takachiho. Before our day ends, we will enjoy watching a Yokagura show.

Hotel Takachiho or similar

Day 6

Beppu & Dogo | Southern Japan's Hot-Springs & Taiko Drums

Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Our morning begins in the hot spring town of Beppu, where we are going for an exciting Tour of Hell. From the eight famous spots, we will visit three: the Sea Hell made up of bright cobalt blue hot water, the Blood Pond Hell where hot water containing red melted clay gushes out, and the Tornado Hell, a fiery geyser that erupts every 20 minutes.

After lunch, we will take a boat ride to Matsuyama, a castle city. Following the pattern of hot springs, we will visit one of the oldest hot springs in the world, Dogo Onsen, which is said to have over 3,000 years of history. The onsen is also widely known for welcoming the imperial family as guests and has a room called Yushinden on reserve exclusively for their use. Dogo Onsen's impressive wooden structure served as a model for the famous film Spirited Away. Enjoy an optional Rickshaw ride through the city grounds, or watch a traditional Taiko drum show in the evening (additional fee's may apply).

Tsubaki-kan or similar

Day 7

Takamatsu & Tokushima | The beautiful nature of Shikoku

Breakfast Lunch
[ Kagawa Prefecture ] Ritsurin Garden ( Lunch - Udon
(Cooking Workshop)
) [ Tokushima ] Awaodori Kaikan
(Dance Experience)
Naruto Whirlpools * [ Osaka ] Check into Hotel *The whirlpool can only be seen at certain times of the day and thus we cannot guarantee seeing the whirlpool in action.

Our day will begin heading towards Osaka. Traveling East, we will visit one of the most beautiful gardens in Japan that overlooks Mt. Shiun, Ritsurin Garden. Michelin Green Guide graded the garden three stars and is a great place to take photos, especially from the highest point that overlooks the entire garden.

While making our way through Tokushima, we will stop at the Awa-odori Museum, a museum dedicated to the prefectural dance of Tokushima. During the annual Awa-Odori festival, thousands of spectators flock to Japan to watch the traditional dance. Enjoy learning some steps and history of Awa-odori at this great museum.

Our last stop before hitting Osaka is Naruto, a small town off the coast. Here in Naruto, many hope to observe the large Naruto whirlpools that can be seen under very ideal conditions. (*The whirlpool can only be seen at certain times of the day and thus we cannot guarantee seeing the whirlpool in action.)

Sheraton Miyako Osaka Hotel or similar

Day 8

Osaka | Tour Disbands & Depart from Japan

Breakfast

Your pleasant and memorable Japan tour ends today. The tour will disband after breakfast. Fly home with cherished memories or enjoy your extended stay in Japan.

**INFORMATION**
From downtown hotel in Osaka to KIX Airport - about 70 mins (Bus)
From downtown hotel in Osaka to ITM Airport - about 30 mins (Bus)

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  • All ground transportation
  • All admission fees as listed
  • Gratuities & Local Taxes
  • Round-trip airport transfers
  • licensed tour guide throughout
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