The Best Historical Organized Tours in East Asia

Guided Group Tours, Vacation Packages, or Planned Itineraries

East Asia

Calling all history enthusiasts and cultural explorers! Are you craving a holiday to East Asia that goes beyond the ordinary? To help you plan your next trip, we have put together this carefully curated list of guided organized tours, holiday packages, and tour packages that offer an unforgettable experience filled with intrigue and discovery. With meticulous attention to detail, we've analyzed a variety of historical tours to East Asia to ensure the perfect blend of price, comfort, guest ratings, service, and activities. With these key criteria, we have found the absolute best hisorical tours to East Asia to help make your planning process much easier.


The Top 3 Tours:

  • 10 Days, $1606.46

  • 12 Days, $1325.00

  • 7 Days, $799.00
East Asia
The Best Historical Tours through East Asia

Including guided tours, organized tours, holiday packages, all-inclusive vacations, and guided itineraries.

All tour prices are listed in US Dollars before taxes, and come from a base price that is reported by TourRadar. Peak season prices can vary significantly, particularly in destinations where seasonal travel fluctuates dramatically. While we do our best to evaluate all tours to maintain accuracy, always confirm the details directly with TourRadar or the tour company before booking. The information provided on this website is sourced directly from TourRadar and may change at any time.

Organized by Journaway 10 Days Tokyo to Osaka 3 Destinations
  • Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for historical tours in East Asia.
  • High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.
  • In Depth: you'll spend a longer amount of time in each place.
  • Local Transit: ride the rails and experience the local trains.
  • Independence: immerse yourself in the culture with self guided travel.

Great for:
  • Culture Lovers
  • History Enthusiasts

starstarstarstarstar 4.8 rating

Age Range: 99 to 99
Maximum Group Size: 15
Price per Day: $105

This tour visits Tokyo, Kyoto, Fuji, Fushimi, Uji, Ise, Arashiyama, and Osaka.

  • Train & Rail
  • Sightseeing
  • In-depth Cultural
  • Historical
  • Self-Guided
  • Temples
  • Fully Guided

By Journaway



$1,055
on TourRadar

Organized by Intrepid Travel 12 Days Beijing to Shanghai 5 Destinations
  • Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for historical tours in East Asia.
  • In Depth: you'll spend a longer amount of time in each place.
  • Local Transit: ride the rails and experience the local trains.

Great for:
  • Adventure Travelers
  • Culture Lovers
  • History Enthusiasts

starstarstarstarstar 4.4 rating

Age Range: 15 to 99
Maximum Group Size: 16
Price per Day: $94

This tour visits Beijing, Xi'an, Shanghai, Huangshan, and Hongcun.

  • Train & Rail
  • Sightseeing
  • In-depth Cultural
  • Historical
  • Fully Guided

By Intrepid Travel
Intrepid specializes in small-group adventure travel with a strong focus on sustainable tourism and authentic experiences. They cater to different travel styles, from budget-friendly backpacking-style tours to premium small-group adventures.



$1,126
on TourRadar

Organized by Discovi Travel 7 Days Start/End in Tokyo 2 Destinations
  • Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for historical tours in East Asia.
  • High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.
  • Personal: offers a smaller group size.
  • In Depth: you'll spend a longer amount of time in each place.

Great for:
  • Culture Lovers
  • History Enthusiasts

starstarstarstarstar 4.5 rating

Age Range: 18 to 35
Maximum Group Size: 8
Price per Day: $114

This tour visits Tokyo and Kamakura.

  • Sightseeing
  • In-depth Cultural
  • Historical
  • Fully Guided

By Discovi Travel
Discovi Travel offers local cultural tours through Japan. The small group sizes, often less than 8, make for a very personal experience. Budget travelers will appreciate the relative affordability of the company's offerings.



$799
on TourRadar

Organized by Intrepid Travel 10 Days Tokyo to Osaka 6 Destinations
  • Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for historical tours in East Asia.
  • High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.

Great for:
  • Culture Lovers
  • History Enthusiasts

starstarstarstarstar 4.5 rating

Age Range: 18 to 35
Maximum Group Size: 16
Price per Day: $150

This tour visits Tokyo, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Osaka.

  • Sightseeing
  • In-depth Cultural
  • Historical
  • Fully Guided

By Intrepid Travel
Intrepid specializes in small-group adventure travel with a strong focus on sustainable tourism and authentic experiences. They cater to different travel styles, from budget-friendly backpacking-style tours to premium small-group adventures.



$1,496
on TourRadar

Organized by Intrepid Travel 10 Days Tokyo to Osaka 5 Destinations
  • Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for historical tours in East Asia.
  • High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.
  • In Depth: you'll spend a longer amount of time in each place.
  • Local Transit: ride the rails and experience the local trains.

Great for:
  • Culture Lovers
  • History Enthusiasts

starstarstarstarstar 4.5 rating

Age Range: 18 to 35
Maximum Group Size: 16
Price per Day: $169

This tour visits Tokyo, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Osaka.

  • Train & Rail
  • Sightseeing
  • In-depth Cultural
  • Historical
  • Fully Guided

By Intrepid Travel
Intrepid specializes in small-group adventure travel with a strong focus on sustainable tourism and authentic experiences. They cater to different travel styles, from budget-friendly backpacking-style tours to premium small-group adventures.



$1,688
on TourRadar

Organized by Intrepid Travel 10 Days Tokyo to Osaka 5 Destinations
  • Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for historical tours in East Asia.
  • High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.
  • In Depth: you'll spend a longer amount of time in each place.
  • Local Transit: ride the rails and experience the local trains.

Great for:
  • Culture Lovers
  • History Enthusiasts

starstarstarstarstar 4.5 rating

Age Range: 18 to 35
Maximum Group Size: 16
Price per Day: $179

This tour visits Tokyo, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Osaka.

  • Train & Rail
  • Sightseeing
  • In-depth Cultural
  • Historical
  • Fully Guided

By Intrepid Travel
Intrepid specializes in small-group adventure travel with a strong focus on sustainable tourism and authentic experiences. They cater to different travel styles, from budget-friendly backpacking-style tours to premium small-group adventures.



$1,785
on TourRadar

Organized by ChinaWayz 11 Days Beijing to Shanghai 4 Destinations
  • Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for historical tours in East Asia.
  • High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.
  • In Depth: you'll spend a longer amount of time in each place.

Great for:
  • Adventure Travelers
  • Culture Lovers
  • History Enthusiasts

starstarstarstarstar 4.5 rating

Age Range: 6 to 99
Maximum Group Size: 20
Price per Day: $175

This tour visits Beijing, Xi'an, Guilin, and Shanghai.

  • In-depth Cultural
  • Historical
  • Fully Guided

By ChinaWayz



$1,922
on TourRadar

Organized by INTRO Travel 13 Days Tokyo to Kyoto 7 Destinations
  • Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for historical tours in East Asia.
  • High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.
  • In Depth: you'll spend a longer amount of time in each place.

Great for:
  • Culture Lovers
  • History Enthusiasts

starstarstarstarstar 4.9 rating

Age Range: 18 to 55
Maximum Group Size: 16
Price per Day: $223

This tour visits Tokyo, Nagano, Hakone, Fuji, Osaka, Koya-san, and Kyoto.

  • Sightseeing
  • In-depth Cultural
  • Historical
  • Fully Guided

By INTRO Travel
INTRO Travel is a large international travel company offering trips all over the world. Budget travelers will appreciate the relative affordability of the company's offerings.



$2,899
on TourRadar

Organized by TravelChinaGuide 11 Days Beijing to Shanghai 5 Destinations
  • On Sale: 15% Off
  • Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for historical tours in East Asia.
  • High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.
  • In Depth: you'll spend a longer amount of time in each place.

Great for:
  • Culture Lovers
  • History Enthusiasts

starstarstarstarstar 4.6 rating

Age Range: 1 to 80
Maximum Group Size: 18
Price per Day: $211

  • Sightseeing
  • In-depth Cultural
  • Historical
  • Fully Guided

By TravelChinaGuide
TravelChinaGuide Tours is a smaller tour company providing personalized service with a focus on China and Nepal. While the prices may be a bit higher than average, the group size is usually small, giving travelers a more personalized experience. Many of their tours are priced in the mid-range category.



$2,729 $2,320
on TourRadar

Organized by Tomato Travel 7 Days Tokyo to Osaka 5 Destinations
  • Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for historical tours in East Asia.

Great for:
  • Culture Lovers
  • History Enthusiasts

starstarstarstarstar 4.3 rating

Age Range: 2 to 99
Maximum Group Size: 40
Price per Day: $198

  • Sightseeing
  • In-depth Cultural
  • Historical
  • Fully Guided

By Tomato Travel
Tomato Travel offers local cultural tours through Japan and South Korea. Many of the tours fall into the mid-range price category.



$1,388
on TourRadar

Why does East Asia appeal to history enthusiasts?

East Asia captivates history enthusiasts with its wealth of historical sites, spanning from ancient times through more recent history. Beijing, Shanghai, and Tokyo offer plenty of amazing museums and sights to explore. Kyoto is known for its Buddhist temples, cultural activities, and rich history. These regional destinations provide a perfect mix of history, culture, and adventure in an affordable package. Plus, the fun and easy itineraries make for a stress-free adventure while creating lasting memories.

East Asia


How much do historical tours in East Asia cost?

The average daily price of Historical Tours in East Asia is $325 per day. Prices can vary widely due to the included amenities, length of the trip, number of guests on the tour, and many other factors. If you want more information about prices, we have put together a complete analysis of the costs of Historical Tours in East Asia here.


We partner with TourRadar because they offer the world's largest selection of multi-day organized tours, offering seamless travel experiences while supporting local businesses. It's the perfect way to explore new destinations with ease and confidence.




$325
Average Price Per Day
96
Tours Analyzed
4.4
Average Rating
33
Tour Companies
22
Average Group Size

Which Tour Companies Offer Historical Tours?

A number of fantastic tour companies offer historical tours in East Asia. These are a few of the best, because they offer the highest rated service, provide the best overall quality, and have the most five-star guest reviews to prove it.

Intrepid Travel

Intrepid Travel logo Intrepid Travel is a large international travel company offering tours all over the world. Some of their most popular destinations include Australia, Thailand, Tanzania, and Italy. Many of the tours fall into the mid-range price category. The company's adventures often highlight activities such as camping, wine tasting, snorkelling, kayaking, cooking classes, island hopping, white water rafting, surfing, horse riding, whale watching, and bird watching.

See All Tours from Intrepid Travel

G Adventures

G Adventures logo G Adventures is a large international travel company offering tours all over the world. Some of their most popular destinations include Thailand, Peru, South Africa, and Vietnam. Many of their tours are priced in the mid-range category. The company's adventures often highlight activities such as camping, island hopping, snorkelling, surfing, wine tasting, kayaking, cooking classes, water sports, jungle surfing, and canyoning.

See All Tours from G Adventures

Stunning Tours

Stunning Tours offers local cultural tours through Japan. Most participants are adults and the tours range in length from 8 days to 2 weeks. There are opportunities to customize some tours to specifically meet your needs. The company appeals to travelers of all ages, with many tours focusing on families with children. The tours offered by Stunning Tours are usually luxurious, high-end, and provide a top-tier level of service.

See All Tours from Stunning Tours

INTRO Travel

INTRO Travel is a large international travel company offering tours all over the world. A number of their tours visit destinations in Asia and Pacific. Some of their most popular destinations include Thailand, Vietnam, Australia, and Indonesia. Budget travelers will appreciate the relative affordability of the company's offerings. The company's adventures often highlight activities such as surfing, snorkelling, diving, dolphin watching, and island hopping.

See All Tours from INTRO Travel


Historical Destinations in East Asia

Wondering where historical tours visit in East Asia? With a variety of stops and destinations along the way, there's something for everyone.

Kyoto

Kyoto was once the capital of Japan, and today it is a beautiful historic city that is filled with temples and traditional neighborhoods. There are gardens and palaces as well as traditional shops and dining opportunities. The city is filled with culture and fascinating places to wander and explore.

Tokyo

Tokyo is the high tech, ultramodern capital city of Japan. It's filled with neon lights and high reaching skyscrapers, but there are also many hidden temples and historic neighborhoods tucked away. You can spend your days wandering through green parks and your nights singing karaoke in one of the many bars around town.

Osaka

Osaka is an economic and commercial center in Japan that attracts tourists for its world class culinary scene and vibrant nightlife. The neon lights, high energy shopping areas, and high reaching skyscrapers make this a fascinating and fun Japanese city to experience.

Hiroshima

Hiroshima is often recognized for its role in World War II. It was the tragic setting of the world's first nuclear attack. Today it is a modern city that is home to a memorial, museum, and park that commemorates those who lost their lives during those tragic events. The city and memorial promote everlasting peace in the world. The city also has many gardens and parks.

More

Other popular destinations for historical tours through East Asia include Takayama, Fuji, Xi'an, Himeji, and Chengdu.


Historical Tours vs. Independent Travel: Pros and Cons

If you're unsure whether to go with an organized tour or plan everything independently, think about the factors that set each experience apart.

Pros
  • Learn detailed stories and context from expert guides.
  • Visit significant landmarks efficiently.
  • Access exclusive areas not open to the public.
  • Guides bring history to life with engaging narratives.
  • Save time on researching destinations.
  • Enjoy a curated itinerary of top historical sites.
  • Guides answer questions for deeper understanding.
  • Group tours can provide a social learning experience.
  • Avoid logistical challenges like tickets or reservations.
  • Guides help connect the dots between events and eras.
Cons
  • Less flexibility in the itinerary.
  • Group size might impact the experience.


Pros
  • Full control over your itinerary and pace.
  • Focus on sites that interest you most.
  • Flexibility to spend more time at certain locations.
  • Explore at unconventional hours to avoid crowds.
  • Customize your trip around niche historical themes.
Cons
  • Requires time-consuming research to plan.
  • Risk of missing key details without a guide.
  • May overlook important or lesser-known sites.
  • Difficult to understand the full historical context.
  • Navigation and logistics can be more complex.
  • No expert to answer questions during your visit.
  • Potential for long waits without pre-booking tickets.
  • Self-guided tours may lack the interactive element.


Which is cheaper?

Is traveling independently less expensive than taking guided historical tours? The answer isn't straightforward. Guided tours often include services like hotels, transportation, meals, entry tickets, guides, and activities, all of which you would need to arrange and pay for individually if traveling on your own. To determine the cost difference, you'd need to compare the total cost of the tour package with the cost of booking everything separately. You may prefer a less expensive hotel or splurge on dining, so the cost of a tour could either save you money or cost you more. Be sure to review what's included in the tour package before making your comparison.

Also, before booking a tour, make sure you know exactly what is included as tour companies sometimes change their itineraries or included amenities to keep them updated with seasonal changes and customer interests.

More Tour Options

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Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.

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