Southern Japan Tours & Trips
Did you know that Southern Japan is different from Tokyo? Kyoto's temples are stunning, Osaka's street food is delicious, Hiroshima's history hits hard, and the art islands in the Seto Inland Sea are unique. These trips balance ancient traditions with modernity, hot springs with bullet trains, gardens with cities. Southern Japan feels slightly less frantic than Tokyo - still Japan but at a gentler pace.
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Courtney • traveled in June
Overall, the tour was unforgettable. The highlights: our tour guide, Alan, was amazing with his in-depth knowledge of Japan language/culture/history and handled obstacles with humor and grace (such as when the sumo wrestler training was cancelled, so instead he offered different options). He was quick on his feet to provide alternative sight-seeing options or alternative modes of transportation if we were unable to complete the scheduled hikes. He also was willing to take our tastes and interests in mind and always willing to help guide us in transportation in case we wanted to explore on our own. I highly recommend Alan for any trip and hope to travel with him again in the future. More highlights include that the hostels were all very clean, secure, and provided excellent help when requested. In fact, the WeBase hostel in Kamakura was my personal favorite and I will book them in my future travels in Japan. DragonTrip paid for all of the transportation costs, so taking any trains, subways, or buses (even in our independent time) were all covered, which made exploring the cities easy. The people I met on this trip were all great and we all plan to keep in touch/meet up again in another part of the world. Japan itself felt like a very safe, efficient, and clean country that I will visit again soon. Downfalls: Really, I think the main downfalls lie in the jam-packed itinerary that needs to be heavily revised. Personally, after the 5th shrine/temple, the rest started to look the same. We visited around 15 in total, which made the trip more go-go-go than I would have preferred, as we were running around trying to see all of the shrines/temples and other sights with little room for downtime. Because of this, many of our breakfasts, lunches, and snacks were based in the many convenient stores. I had planned on a healthy diet when visiting Japan, but instead was faced with the decision of grabbing a quick fry meal at a 7-eleven or not eating until later in the day. If there were less shrines/temple visits and less hikes (which were more than the 2 listed!), then there would be more room for enjoying a well-made meal or at least stops at a grocery store so fresh fruits/veg are available (we were literally asking for vegetables at the end of week 1!). Speaking of hikes, I was told by DragonTrip via email that I would not need hiking boots when I specifically asked. That was NOT true, as we hiked many trails to shrines/temples, and I would have really felt more secure if I had my hiking boots with me on the muddy/unstable footing hikes. Also, please consider including a homestay of sorts in your tours. I felt like during this trip that I didn't get much of a chance to interact with native Japanese people or to experience their actual day-to-day activities. Most people we encountered were somewhat comfortable with English, but one of my hopes for this trip was to practice my Japanese language skills. All in all, I'm glad I purchased this tour and hope that my review can help others who are considering visiting Japan and can be taken into consideration by DragonTrip for future tours. I'm planning on visiting Japan again next year to explore more of Kamakura and the islands.
13-Day Japan Tour: Tokyo, Mount Fuji, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka & Beyond - S
Sandra • traveled in July
The tour gave a good overall view of the country and the people. Probably the only down side was the weather was so hot that it really did effect the enjoyment factor when visiting tourist sites. I have made a decision to only travel when the country I want to go to is in the season of autumn and going into winter.
Wonders of Japan End Osaka (16 destinations) - D
Dilys • traveled in June
Tokyo leg very fast. It was very hot too. All party taken to ‘photo opportunity of tower’. Could have had meeting point and those that wanted photo take walk. Food at restaurant on Sunday was very poor. Need to change venue!! Guide in Tokyo mediocre. Lady on bus tour excellent. Francesco on tour excellent. Ken was fantastic. Lots of information. Good to have ‘free time’ to do things at own pace. Overall thought tour was well designed and varied but fast pace. Many thanks.
Contrasts of Japan end Tokyo (11 destinations)
Table of contents
- The best Southern Japan tour packages
- Travel Southern Japan your way
- Best tour companies for Southern Japan tours
- Popular Southern Japan Cruise Ships
- Discover Southern Japan tours for every budget
- Southern Japan tours for every type of group
- Top Southern Japan travel itineraries to fit your plans
- Demographics
- Best time to visit Southern Japan
- Contact our Southern Japan travel experts
- What our customers ask about Southern Japan Tours & Trips
The best Southern Japan tour packages
Compiled by
MelissaSouthern Japan travel expert at TourRadar
13-Day Japan Tour: Tokyo, Mount Fuji, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka & Beyond
157 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“This tour of Japan covers all the must sees! Great value for money.”
Alexa, traveled in August
Duration 13 days Destinations Tokyo, Oshino, Kyoto, Miyajima Island, Hiroshima, Okayama, Osaka Age Range Ages 18-55 Operator The Dragon Trip From
- NZ$5,341
South Japan Express
28 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“We saw a lot of places, sometimes we visit 2 or 3 places a day, sometimes it was a little too much but we saw more things that way.”
Gloria, traveled in August
The highlights of Southern Japan unfold from Himeji Castle to Itsukushima's floating shrine. Historic Kurashiki, traditional Dogo Onsen bathing, and Naruto Bridge's engineering marvel await.
Duration 6 days Destinations Osaka, Himeji, Okayama, Kurashiki, Hiroshima, Matsuyama, Kotohira, Takamatsu, Naruto, Kobe Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Europamundo From
- NZ$2,776
Tokyo, Kyoto and Hiroshima end Tokyo
15 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Really full of knowledge & also got to you know you so could tell some personal things you'd like about the areas.”
Jamie, traveled in September
The charm of Southern Japan spans from Osaka's Dotonbori to Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Park. Remarkable Himeji Castle, historic Kurashiki streets, and Itsukushima Shrine showcase regional heritage.
Duration 7 days Destinations Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Himeji, Okayama, Kurashiki, Hiroshima Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Europamundo From
- NZ$4,853
Tokyo's Shibuya district marks the start of this cultural adventure to Osaka's vibrant streets. A Shibuya food tour and historic site visits via hop-on-hop-off buses showcase local life.
Duration 8 days Destinations Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Vio Travel From
- NZ$2,348
Japan Essentials 13 Day - One Life Adventures
19 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The tour was well structured with time for guided main attractions tour and free time for individual interests.”
Ancient meets modern in Southern Japan from Kyoto's Fushimi-Inari shrine to Hiroshima's Peace Memorial. Osaka's vibrant Dotonbori district, Nara's ancient temples, and Miyajima Island's iconic floating torii gate create lasting memories.
Duration 13 days Destinations Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Hiroshima, Miyajima Island Age Range Ages 18-39 Operator One Life Adventures From
- NZ$4,004
Osaka Hiroshima Snapshot 6 Day - One Life Adventures
9 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Excellent opportunity to get a taste of Japan for those short on time. I would definitely book again with this tour company.”
Nowrin, traveled in August
Cultural riches abound from Osaka's vibrant Dotonbori to Miyajima's sacred shores. Buddhist traditions thrive in Koyasan's mountain temple, while Hiroshima's moving history and local cuisine create meaningful connections.
Duration 6 days Destinations Osaka, Wakayama, Hiroshima, Miyajima Island Age Range Ages 18-59 Operator One Life Adventures From
- NZ$2,253
8 Days Best Of Japan Family Small Group (Max 15)(4 Star Hotels)
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“It was an absolutely perfect trip. Every moment was a blast.”
Wyatt, traveled in November
Duration 8 days Destinations Tokyo, Mount Fuji, Kyoto, Fushimi, Nara, Hiroshima, Osaka Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator UME Travel Co. Ltd From $5,320
5% Off- NZ$5,054You save $266
Japan Plus 11-Day Culture Tour: Golden Route & Beyond
20 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Great opportunity to see a lot of highlights in Japan, plenty of walking and a good long soak in an onsen is needed!”
James, traveled in September
Your path leads from Osaka's vibrant Dotonbori to Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Museum. Take in Miyajima's floating torii gate, soak in Hakone's onsen baths, and wander Kyoto's historic Gion district. Highlights include sushi-making and traditional geisha shows.
Duration 11 days Destinations Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, Hiroshima, Okayama, Osaka Age Range Ages 18+ Operator The Dragon Trip From
5% Off- NZ$8,329
Japan Discovery
7 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The tour gave a snap shot of Japan incorporating the castles, shrines, ancient customs, modern innovations.”
Carolyn, traveled in December
Vibrant Osaka culture, Himeji's majestic castle, and Hiroshima's moving Peace Memorial create lasting memories. Traditional sake breweries and Miyajima Island's iconic floating torii gate complete the experience.
Duration 10 days Destinations Tokyo, Fuji, Kyoto, Kurashiki, Hiroshima, Himeji, Osaka Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Costsaver From $6,525
10% Off- NZ$5,873You save $653
7 Days Japan's Cultural & Thrilling Family Adventures (private guide & driver）
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“Made our last minute trip to Japan extremely seamless and enjoyable.”
Cushla, traveled in June
Duration 7 days Destinations Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator UME Travel Co. Ltd From
10% Off- NZ$5,989
Travel Southern Japan your way
More travel styles:
Best tour companies for Southern Japan tours
Based on the tour reviews, Intrepid Travel's Japan Express stands out for giving travelers what they actually want - a good mix of guided experiences and free time to explore on their own. TruTravels has some strong points with their Philippines programs and guide Marion knows her stuff in Japan, but customers mention feeling a bit restricted by the fixed schedule and having to rely too much on public transport. Europamundo sits somewhere in the middle - David Munoz and Francisco get high marks as guides and their itineraries are solid, but the "Wonders of Japan End Osaka" tour moves too quickly through destinations. The food quality isn't consistent either, which is particularly tough for vegetarian travelers who already have limited options.What's interesting is how the flexibility factor keeps coming up in reviews. Our travelers clearly value having some independence built into their schedules, which might explain why Intrepid's more balanced approach resonates well. They've figured out that sweet spot between structure and freedom that many Japan visitors are looking for.
Popular Southern Japan Cruise Ships
Discover Southern Japan tours for every budget
Southern Japan tours for every type of group
Who are you traveling with?
Top Southern Japan travel itineraries to fit your plans
7 Day Itineraries
10 Day Itineraries
2 Week Itineraries
Demographics
Solo Travelers111 tours- Couples127 tours
- Young Adults (18 - 39)7 tours
- Seniors (50+)45 tours
Best time to visit Southern Japan
- Winter 2025 / 2026
Winter tours through southern Japan offer unique experiences and good value, with fewer tourists at major sites. Several well-planned routes combine cultural highlights with seasonal specialties. The longer 12-14 day tours let you explore at a comfortable pace, using heated trains between cities and warm onsens to counter the cold. Our travelers particularly enjoy the morning fish markets in Tokyo when winter brings the best tuna, followed by hands-on sushi making classes with expert chefs. The temple stays in Mount Koya become extra special in winter - you'll join monks for morning prayers while snow blankets the ancient cemetery paths. Some tours focus on urban exploration with cozy stops at specialty coffee shops and local izakayas, while others head into the countryside where you'll soak in outdoor hot springs with views of snow-capped Mount Fuji.
- 55 tours
- 71 tours
- popular 87 tours
- Spring 2026
Spring tours through Japan's southern regions blend cultural immersion with perfect timing for cherry blossom season. Our travelers tell us they love experiencing traditional temple stays at Mount Koya, hands-on sushi classes in Tokyo, and also intimate tea ceremonies in Kyoto's historic Gion district. Tours running 12-14 days give you space to absorb both famous landmarks and lesser-known gems at an unhurried pace, where you'll start your mornings meditating with monks, wander through Naoshima's art installations, and also pedal along peaceful countryside paths. Many spring departures include extras like guided walks through Ritsurin's Edo-period gardens, plus exclusive evening visits to temples when cherry blossoms glow under night lighting. Family itineraries weave in master-led calligraphy sessions and teamLab's digital art spaces, while cultural-focused departures highlight traditional performances and artisan workshops. These spring routes stand out for their thoughtful balance, mixing scheduled activities with time to explore places like Arashiyama's bamboo groves or join local guides through Osaka's bustling market streets.
- 107 tours
- 107 tours
- popular 115 tours
- Summer 2026
The summer tours through southern Japan blend smart ways to stay cool while discovering the region's best spots. Our family trips mix digital art museums, traditional cooking classes and also early morning temple visits before the heat kicks in. E-bikes make the cycling routes a breeze even in warm weather, as you pedal past fragrant citrus groves and along breezy coastal paths. The tours strike a nice balance between cultural sites and natural escapes, with morning bamboo forest walks, afternoon museum visits and also peaceful garden strolls. Traditional accommodations earn particular praise from our guests, especially those featuring private onsen baths for post-activity soaking. While summer temperatures can climb high, our guides adapt the schedule to hit outdoor locations in cooler hours and seamlessly integrate indoor experiences. The Kyushu routes work especially well in warmer months, combining refreshing mountain spots like Takachiho Gorge with urban explorations through Fukuoka's covered shopping streets, local markets and also air-conditioned galleries.
- popular 102 tours
- 94 tours
- 97 tours
- Fall / Autumn 2026
The autumn colors really transform southern Japan's temple gardens and mountain paths - it's when our cultural tours work best. The routes through Kyoto combine visits to the golden pavilions with peaceful walks in Arashiyama's red maple groves. Our clients love starting their days at Takayama's markets, where fall brings an amazing variety of local harvests. You can then use these seasonal ingredients in traditional cooking workshops. The longer trips head out to the quieter Inland Sea islands once the summer crowds leave and the weather cools down. Many tours include nights at traditional inns where you'll try local delicacies like matsutake mushrooms, fresh fish and also seasonal vegetables. Walking tours through Kyoto's temple areas are particularly nice in fall - the expert guides explain the garden designs while you take photos of the colorful leaves.
- 102 tours
- popular 111 tours
- 99 tours
Contact our Southern Japan travel experts
Joseph
Expert in Southern Japan at TourRadar
Joseph is one of our seasoned Southern Japan Travel Experts. Reach out to us to get all your questions about Southern Japan tours answered!
- Choose from 182+ Southern Japan tours
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Call us
+64 4888 0182What our customers ask about Southern Japan Tours & Trips
What can I try food-wise in Southern Japan and where should I go?
You'll find amazing regional dishes all across Southern Japan's prefectures. In Fukuoka you've got to try the Hakata ramen - head to the Yatai food stalls near Canal City where Nagahama No.1 serves it 24/7. Kumamoto does this fantastic ramen with garlic chips and black mayu oil and Kokutei near the castle really nails it. When you're in Nagasaki check out Chinatown where champon noodles blend Chinese and Japanese flavors perfectly - make sure to visit Shikairo they actually invented the dish. For serious sake lovers Dassai Brewery in Yamaguchi does exclusive tastings of their incredible 23% polished rice sake. Oh and don't skip the black eggs at Owakudani Valley locals swear eating one adds 7 years to your life just don't have more than two they're pretty high in sulfur.
What natural areas should I explore outside the cities and how do I get there?
Aso-Kuju National Park is absolutely stunning it spreads across 72678 hectares in Kumamoto and Oita you can get there easily on the JR Hohi Line to Aso Station. Visit in spring for cherry blossoms or autumn for amazing fall colors. Takachiho Gorge lets you rent rowboats under these incredible 80-meter basalt cliffs but go early to avoid the crowds. If you're up for something special take the ferry from Kagoshima to Yakushima Island - 2 hours by hydrofoil or 4 on the regular ferry to see thousand-year-old cedars that inspired Princess Mononoke. The Shiratani Unsuikyo trail takes 3-4 hours and shows you the best of the ancient forest.
What are some hidden gems when it comes to trails and routes and why do people love them?
The Shimanami Kaido is this amazing cycling route connecting six islands with dedicated paths and you can grab e-bikes right at Onomichi Station. If you're looking for something more traditional try the Kohechi route on the Kumano Kodo it's way less crowded than the main pilgrimage trail and takes you through these fantastic remote mountain villages with traditional minshuku stays. The Iya Valley in Tokushima has these incredible vine bridges called kazurabashi that they rebuild every three years using old techniques. You can catch local buses from major stations to reach these spots and the Iya Valley's best accessed from JR Oboke Station. Start Shimanami Kaido early the morning mist over the Seto Inland Sea is absolutely worth it.
Which places are actually worth visiting even though they're not super touristy?
Ritsurin Garden in Takamatsu shows off the best of Edo-period landscaping and they do these beautiful evening light-ups in autumn. Dogo Onsen which inspired Spirited Away has these exclusive Imperial bathing rooms if you book ahead. The Kunisaki Peninsula is incredible with over 60 ancient temples linked by pilgrim trails and at Futagoji Temple you can actually stay overnight in Buddhist lodging. These places stay authentic because they're off the main tourist path but that's what makes them special you get real cultural experiences and unique events like the Kunisaki Art Project in fall.
How do I get around Southern Japan what's running when and where?
The Shinkansen runs all the way to Kagoshima with Sakura trains every 30 minutes at peak times super convenient. You'll love the JR Hisatsu Orange Railway along Kyushu's coast they run these cool historic trains with huge windows. Local buses are everywhere and the Miyazaki Kotsu Bus Pass gives you 3 days of unlimited travel pretty good deal. Renting a car makes sense especially on Kyushu's east coast where trains are limited. Ferries run between major ports every couple hours during the day and the Naoshima Ferry is actually decorated with art. Most places take IC cards SUGOCA works pretty much everywhere in the region.