Karate & Culture immursion tour Japan 2026
10 night tour of JaPan
March 12th to March 22nd 2026
An authentic training and cultural experience for everyone to share.
Tour Overview
Proposed dates: 12th March to the 22nd March 2026
We will be based in Osaka, Himeji, Hiroshima and Kyoto; providing us with easy access to the Kansai and Hiroshima regions.
Amazing training experiences at various locations in Osaka, Himeji, Kobe, Hiroshima and Kyoto
Cultural highlights including iconic Temples, Shrines and Japanese cuisine
BOOKINGS OPEN AUGUST 1ST!
Tour Itinerary
Depart Melbourne 12th March 2026
(approximate date)
We will fly with Cathay Pacific via Hong Kong to Osaka International.
Osaka - 3 nights
TRAINING: 2 training sessions
we will be training at a local Goju Dojo, and visiting the number 1 Junior dojo in the country, home to the current Cadet Male Kata World Champion.
CULTURE:
Osaka Castle – A must-visit historical landmark with beautiful gardens.
Shitenno-ji Temple – The oldest Buddhist temple in Japan, dating back to 593 AD.
Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine – A unique Shinto shrine with distinctive architectural style.
Dotonbori – The heart of Osaka’s nightlife with neon lights, street food, and entertainment.
Shinsaibashi Shopping Street – A long arcade filled with shops, cafes, and souvenirs.
Himeji - 3 nights
TRAINING: 2 training session
Top Secret…. (only joking) 2 sessions at a Goju dojo with a bit of a current top name in Goju in Japan…
CULTURE:
Himeji Jo (castle)
Himeji Koen (gardens)
Kobe
Arima Onsen
Hiroshima - 2 nights
TRAINING: 1 training session
at a family run dojo
with Hiroshima regional Head Kata Coach
CULTURE:
Hiroshima Peace Park
A-Bomb Dome
Mitake Dera
Miyajima (iconic Gi photo spot)
Kyoto - 2 nights
Kyoto 2 nights - Kyoto Budokan, and way too many sights to list, but here is a small list:
Budokan, Heian Shrine, Nijo Castle, Kyou Mizu Dera, Golden Pavilion, Arashayama and the Monkeys, 1000 buddha’s, then Inari for sunset hike
Swords!!!! – In Kyoto there is the opportunity for a very special Iaido experience.
We will have one very special training session here in Kyoto, at one of the most special Dojo’s.
From Kyoto on the 22nd, we will transfer via train to Osaka International and return to Melbourne.
“ I have been on multiple tours to Japan and every time, I feel like I get closer to Japan.
There are people from different clubs who join the tour, and we start forming close relationships with each other, and after the tour finishes, I would visit their dojos in Australia to train together which also creates a stronger bond between us.
I would strongly encourage first timers and people who have previously visited Japan to do it with their club as it is a very different experience! ”
— Jordan Kwok (JP Tours in 2017, 2019, 2023)
BOOKINGS OPEN AUGUST 1ST!
TOUR INCLUSIONS
Every element of this tour has been expertly curated in consultation with Shihan Chris; so that you can have a unique and authentic experience without having to lift a finger.
Our Karate & Culture immursion tour includes:
Return flights with Cathay Pacific Airlines
Airport transfers in Japan
3 nights accommodation Osaka (includes breakfast)
3 nights accommodation Himeji (includes breadfast)
2 nights accommodation Hiroshima (includes breakfast)
2 nights accommodation Kyoto (includes breakfast)
5 day JR West rail pass
New JaPan Made Karate Gi Uniform (Japanese Hayate brand)
Luggage portage transfers! (The best invention, ever)
All training sessions
JTB support and personalised app
On the ground, Japanese-speaking tour guide with over 30 years experience (Craig Catania)
Between us and Shihan Chris, we will have heaps of activities leading up to the tour to help you prepare and get the most out of your experience.
PRICING
These prices are an estimated cost per person and are subject to change.
These prices are inclusive of all travel taxes and GST.
Prices listed do not include travel insurance and spending money.
Please check with Shihan to see if you are eligible to participate in this tour.
Karate Student Pricing.
Adults (12yrs and above)
Single : $6900
Twn/Dble : $6290
Triple : $6190
Juniors (11yrs and under)
Twn/Dble : $5900
Triple : $5800
Tourist (not training) Pricing.
Adults (12yrs and above)
Single : $6600
Twn/Dble : $5990
Triple : $5890
Juniors (11yrs and under)
Twn/Dble : $5600
Triple : $5500
What happens next?
NOW - Expressions of interest open.
24 May 2025 - Expressions of interest close.
August 1st 2025
- Bookings Open & Deposit Due
- Deposit will be approximately $1500pp
- Bookings taken via web portal
October 2025 - Second Payment Due
January 2026 - Final Payment Due
When booking your tour, we recommend you take out your travel insurance at the same time. Always check the PDS and make sure that your insurance covers you for Martial Arts training.
We recommend CoverMore insurance:
www.covermore.com.au
