PSA 2026 Website

PRE CONFERENCE OPTIONAL TOURS - TOKYO

TOUR 1: TOKYO CITY TOUR

Date: Thursday 7 May
Depart time: 1:00pm
Return time: 5:00pm
Tour Grade: 1
Price: $215 per person

(Note: This tour is repeated on Saturday 9th May)

Take a trip to the vibrant heart of traditional Tokyo on the Asakusa tour. Begin with a guided visit to Sensoji, the city’s oldest temple, where you can try your luck with a traditional omikuji fortune.

Next, step into one of Tokyo’s oldest shopping streets, Nakamise Shopping Street. A lively promenade lined with nearly 90 stalls, Nakamise offers a colourful mix of traditional crafts, souvenirs and tempting snacks. Browse delicate fans, hand-painted lanterns and elegant kimono accessories, or sample local treats like freshly baked ningyo-yaki cakes and crisp senbei rice crackers. With its bustling atmosphere and rich history, Nakamise is the perfect place to experience the charm of old Tokyo while finding unique keepsakes.

TOUR 2: FULL DAY TOKYO FOODIE TOUR WITH LUNCH INCLUDED

Date: Friday 8 May
Depart time: 11:30am
Return time: 5:00pm
Tour Grade: 1
Price: $255 per person

The tour begins in Asakusa, the historic heart of Tokyo, where you will visit Sensoji, the city’s oldest temple, where you can try your luck with a traditional omikuji fortune before strolling along Nakamise Street to browse traditional crafts and modern souvenirs.

A lively promenade lined with nearly 90 stalls, Nakamise offers a colourful mix of traditional crafts, souvenirs and tempting snacks. Browse delicate fans, hand-painted lanterns and elegant kimono accessories, or sample local treats like freshly baked ningyo-yaki cakes and crisp senbei rice crackers. With its bustling atmosphere and rich history, Nakamise is the perfect place to experience the charm of old Tokyo while finding unique keepsakes.

Continue with a Tokyo food adventure, starting at the vibrant Tsukiji Market for fresh seafood and local delicacies, then explore the gourmet underground food halls of a Ginza department store. After a stop for a local lunch, walk down Harajuku’s lively Takeshita Street, famous for its playful sweets and unique street foods. Conclude your day at Meiji Shrine, Tokyo’s most significant Shinto site, dedicated to Emperor Meiji - a serene retreat steeped in history and cultural tradition.

TOUR 3: FULL DAY NIKKO TOUR

Date: Friday 8 May
Depart time: 9:00am
Return time: 5:00pm
Tour Grade: 1
Price: $320 per person

Escape the bustle of Tokyo and journey to Nikko, a UNESCO World Heritage site nestled in the mountains of Tochigi Prefecture. Begin with a visit to the Toshogu Shrine, an opulent complex dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, adorned with intricate carvings and vibrant colours. Stroll through the serene cedar-lined paths and discover the famous "see no evil, speak no evil, hear no evil" monkeys and the “Sleeping Cat”.

Afterwards enjoy a stroll and lunch at leisure in central Nikko with plenty of street food and local crafts available for purchase.This day offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and scenic beauty - an unforgettable escape from the city.

TOUR 4: TOKYO CITY TOUR (EN ROUTE TO THE SHIP)

Date: Saturday 9th May
Depart time: 9:00am
Return time: 1:00pm
Tour Grade: 1
Price: $215 per person

(Note: This tour is the same as Tour 1 on Thursday 7th May)

MAIN CONFERENCE CRUISE - OPTIONAL TOURS: SHIMIZU

TOUR 1: KUNOZAN SHRINE AND YUME TERRACE

Date: Sunday 10 May
Depart time: 8:30am
Return time: 12:30pm
Tour Grade: 2
Price: $190 per person

Discover the beauty of Shizuoka on this unforgettable morning adventure. Begin your journey with a scenic drive to Nippondaira Yume Terrace, where sweeping views of Mount Fuji and Suruga Bay set the tone for the day (note: Mount Fiji views in May are weather dependent, so if you see it, it’s a bonus). Take time to soak in the panorama from the observatory before boarding the ropeway for a breathtaking ride to Kunozan Toshogu Shrine, the resting place of the revered shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu.

Explore the ornate shrine on a guided tour, then enjoy a leisurely stroll along paths overlooking the sea. Pause to indulge in local flavours at charming strawberry cafés and browse quaint shops for regional treats. Conclude your experience with a relaxing transfer back to the ship, carrying memories of Japan’s serene landscapes and cultural treasures.

TOUR 2: TORO ARCHAEOLOGY TOUR

Date: Sunday 10 May
Depart time: 8:30am
Return time: 12:30pm
Tour Grade: 2
Price: $175 per person

Start with a visit to Toro Park, where you can explore ancient archaeological sites dating back to the Yayoi period (300 BCE – 300 CE), including burial mounds and remnants of an early Japanese settlement. Then, see Toro Museum, home to artifacts from this period, offering insight into ancient daily life and rituals.

Get a taste for ancient Japan with a tour of Shizuoka’s Toro district. Step back 2,000 years to Japan’s Yayoi period at the Toro Archaeological Site, a nationally designated Special Historic Site in Shizuoka City. This remarkable location recreates an ancient rice-farming village, complete with reconstructed pit dwellings, raised-floor storehouses and ceremonial halls. Wander through the historical park and imagine life in a community that pioneered wet-rice agriculture - a discovery that transformed the understanding of early Japanese society.

Visit the Toro Museum, where interactive exhibits and original artifacts such as pottery, wooden farming tools and ritual implements bring the Yayoi culture to life. Finish at the Serizawa Keisuke Art Museum, showcasing the intricate textile art of local artist Serizawa Keisuke, a master of traditional dyeing techniques. With its blend of outdoor reconstructions and engaging museum displays, the Toro site offers a fascinating glimpse into Japan’s agricultural roots and archaeological heritage.

MAIN CONFERENCE CRUISE - OPTIONAL TOURS: OSAKA

TOUR 1: OSAKA CASTLE

Date: Monday 11 or Tuesday 12 May
Depart time: 11:00am
Return time: 1:30pm
Tour Grade: 2
Price: $175 per person

Step back in time and uncover the grandeur of Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s most iconic landmarks. Originally built in 1583, it was once the largest castle in Japan and survived numerous battles during the siege of Osaka. Although damaged in WW2 the castle’s main keep was reconstructed in 1997 with modern materials but still maintains its ancient charm.

Begin your journey with a short transfer to the castle grounds, where majestic architecture rises against the modern city skyline. Stroll through expansive gardens and take in the serene beauty before joining a guided tour inside the castle.

Explore its fascinating exhibits and learn stories of samurai battles and the Siege of Osaka, then enjoy some free time to wander at your own pace and capture stunning views from the observation deck. Conclude your visit with a relaxing coach ride back to the ship, carrying with you a deeper appreciation of Japan’s rich history and cultural heritage.

TOUR 2: OSAKA MARKETS FOODIE TOUR

Date: Monday 11 or Tuesday 12 May
Depart time: 11:00am
Return time: 1:30pm
Tour Grade: 1
Price: $160 per person

Embark on a culinary adventure through Osaka’s vibrant food scene. Begin with a stroll along Doguyasuji Street, a traditional shopping arcade brimming with kitchenware and quirky displays of Japan’s famous plastic food models. Next, dive into the flavours of Kuromon Market, known as “Osaka’s Kitchen,” where you can sample fresh seafood, wagyu beef, and local specialties like Takoyaki octopus dumplings.

Continue to lively Dotonbori, a neon-lit wonderland where giant signs and endless eateries create a feast for the senses. Capture the energy of this iconic district while savouring street food favourites before returning to the ship with a taste of Osaka’s culinary soul.

TOUR 3: MINO PARK & FARMHOUSE MUSEUM

Date: Tuesday 12 May
Depart time: 8:30am
Return time: 1:30pm
Tour Grade: 1
Price: $195 per person

Escape the bustle of Osaka and step back in time at the Japan Open-Air Folk House Museum. Wander through 12 beautifully preserved farmhouses that showcase Edo-period rural life, each offering a glimpse into Japan’s rich heritage. After exploring these traditional homes, continue your journey to the tranquil beauty of Mino Park.

Stroll along scenic trails framed by lush greenery and make your way to the spectacular 33-meter Mino Waterfall. Savour the park’s unique treat, crispy maple-leaf tempura, and keep an eye out for playful monkeys along the way. This serene experience blends history, nature and local flavours for an unforgettable day.

TOUR 4: NARA FULL DAY TOUR

Date: Tuesday 12 May
Depart time: 8:00am
Return time: 4:30pm
Tour Grade: 2
Price: $325 per person

Discover the timeless beauty of Nara, Japan’s first capital and a city that blends history, spirituality and art. Begin your day with a gentle stroll through Nara Deer Park, where hundreds of free-roaming deer wander among ancient trees and serene pathways. These animals are considered sacred messengers of the gods, adding a unique charm to the experience.

Continue to Todai-ji Temple, home to the Great Buddha, one of the largest bronze statues in the world and housed inside an immense wooden structure that is an architectural masterpiece. From there, make your way to Kasuga Grand Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site adorned with hundreds of bronze and stone lanterns that line its sacred paths, creating a truly enchanting atmosphere.

After lunch and some free time in central Nara, explore the Nara National Museum, where exquisite Buddhist art awaits. Admire rare statues, scrolls and treasures that tell stories of Japan’s spiritual heritage.

This day offers a perfect combination of cultural discovery, natural beauty, and peaceful moments, making Nara an unforgettable highlight of your journey.

(Note: those joining the Central Japan post-tour, this tour is also available as an optional activity from Kyoto)

TOUR 5: MT KOYA SPIRITUAL DAY TOUR WITH LUNCH INCLUDED

Date: Tuesday 12 May
Depart time: 8:00am
Return time: 4:30pm
Tour Grade: 2
Price: $370 per person

This day combines natural beauty, cultural heritage, and spiritual insight, offering a rare opportunity to connect with Japan’s sacred traditions in an unforgettable setting. Experience the heart of Japanese spiritual tradition with a journey to Mt. Koya, a sacred mountain and the centre of Shingon Buddhism. Begin with a guided walk through Okuno-in, a serene forest cemetery where towering cedar trees shelter thousands of memorials and monuments dedicated to revered monks and historical figures. This peaceful setting offers a profound sense of history and reflection.

Pause for a Buddhist-style lunch at Ichi-no-Hashi, where you will enjoy shojin ryori, a traditional vegetarian meal prepared with seasonal ingredients that embodies mindfulness and balance. After lunch, visit Kongobuji Temple, the head temple of Shingon Buddhism, and admire its intricate gardens, sliding screen paintings, and impressive architecture. Continue to the nearby Garan Pagoda, an iconic structure that symbolises the spiritual significance of Mt. Koya.

This day combines natural beauty, cultural heritage, and spiritual insight, offering a rare opportunity to connect with Japan’s sacred traditions in an unforgettable setting.

MAIN CONFERENCE CRUISE - OPTIONAL TOURS: OKINAWA

TOUR 1: OCEAN EXPO PARK FULL DAY TOUR

Date: Tuesday 14 May
Depart time: 8:30am
Return time: 5:30pm
Tour Grade: 2
Price: $320 per person

Spend a full day exploring the wonders of Okinawa at Ocean Expo Park, a destination that celebrates the island’s deep connection with the sea and its cultural heritage. Begin your visit at Churaumi Aquarium, home to one of the world’s largest tanks where you can marvel at whale sharks, manta rays, and a dazzling array of marine life. Take time to wander through the exhibits and enjoy the serene beauty of Okinawa’s underwater world.

In the afternoon, continue to the Oceanic Culture Museum, which offers fascinating insights into Okinawa’s maritime history. Discover exhibits on ancient navigation techniques, traditional fishing methods, and the role of the ocean in shaping local life. Your journey then takes you to Okinawan Village and the Botanical Garden, where you can step into the past and experience Ryukyu culture through folk performances, traditional crafts, and lush tropical landscapes.

This immersive day combines marine wonders, cultural traditions, and natural beauty, giving you a deeper appreciation of Okinawa’s unique heritage.

TOUR 2: CENTRAL NAHA FULL DAY TOUR

Date: Tuesday 14 May
Depart time: 8:30am
Return time: 5:00pm
Tour Grade: 2
Price: $315 per person

Spend a full day discovering the vibrant mix of history, culture, and modern life in Naha, the lively capital of Okinawa. Begin your journey at Shuri Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a stunning example of Ryukyu architecture. Explore its elegant gates, ornate halls, and sweeping views while learning about the kingdom that once thrived here.

Continue to Fukushu-en Garden, a peaceful Chinese-style garden with ponds, bridges, and lush greenery that offers a tranquil escape from the city. Afterward, head to bustling Kokusai-Dori, Naha’s main street, where you can enjoy lunch and browse an array of shops selling local crafts, souvenirs, and Okinawan delicacies.

In the afternoon, visit the Okinawa Prefectural Museum and Art Gallery to delve into the island’s rich history and cultural heritage. From ancient artifacts to contemporary art, this museum provides a fascinating perspective on Okinawa’s unique identity.

This full-day experience blends architectural beauty, serene landscapes and cultural discovery, making Naha an unforgettable highlight of your trip.

MAIN CONFERENCE CRUISE - OPTIONAL TOURS: NAGASAKI

TOUR 1: BATTLESHIP ISLAND

Date: Sunday 17 May
Depart time: 12:00pm
Return time: 4:00pm
Tour Grade: 1
Price: $235 per person

Embark on a fascinating journey into Japan’s industrial past with a visit to Gunkanjima, also known as Battleship Island. Begin with a scenic cruise from Nagasaki Port, taking in views of the harbour and surrounding coastline before arriving at this hauntingly unique UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once a thriving coal mining hub, the island was home to over 5,000 residents at its peak, making it one of the most densely populated places on Earth.

Today, the island stands abandoned, its crumbling concrete buildings and narrow alleyways offering a stark reminder of a bygone era. During your guided visit, learn about the island’s rise and fall, its role in Japan’s modernisation, and the lives of those who once called it home. After exploring this extraordinary site, relax on the return cruise to Nagasaki, reflecting on an experience that combines history, architecture, and a sense of mystery unlike anywhere else.

TOUR 2: NAGASAKI PEACE PARK

Date: Sunday 17 May
Depart time: 11:00pm
Return time: 1:30pm
Tour Grade: 1
Price: $160 per person

Take a deeply moving journey through history with a visit to Nagasaki Peace Park and the Atomic Bomb Museum. Begin by exploring the tranquil grounds of the Peace Park, where poignant statues and memorials honour the victims of the 1945 bombing. The serene atmosphere invites quiet reflection as you walk among monuments that symbolise hope and resilience.

Continue to the Atomic Bomb Museum, which offers powerful exhibits detailing the events of that tragic day. View artifacts, photographs, and personal accounts from survivors that provide insight into the devastating impact of nuclear warfare.

This experience serves as a sobering reminder of the horrors of war and the enduring importance of peace, leaving visitors with a profound sense of reflection and understanding.

MAIN CONFERENCE CRUISE - OPTIONAL TOURS: KAGOSHIMA

TOUR 1: SENGAN GARDEN & SAKURAJIMA

Date: Monday 18 May
Depart time: 8:30pm
Return time: 1:00pm
Tour Grade: 2
Price: $210 per person

Begin your day with a visit to Sengan-en, a stunning traditional garden that offers sweeping views of Kagoshima Bay and the imposing Sakurajima Volcano in the distance. Stroll through landscaped paths, admire elegant ponds and seasonal flowers, and take in the unique perspective of the volcano gently puffing smoke against the backdrop of the sea.

After enjoying the garden, transfer to Kagoshima Port and board a ferry for a short ride across the bay to Sakurajima. Upon arrival, set out on a guided walk along the Nagisa Lava Trail, where rugged rock formations tell the story of past eruptions. Pause at the visitor centre to learn more about the volcano’s history and geology and experience the thermal foot baths heated by volcanic energy, a relaxing and memorable highlight of the day.

This tour combines serene beauty with dramatic landscapes, offering a rare chance to explore one of Japan’s most iconic natural wonders up close.

POST CONFERENCE OPTIONAL TOURS: AIRPORT TRANSFER

Note: The following two tours are specifically for those attendees who are not doing the Post-conference Tours to Mongolia and Central Japan. Most flights returning from Tokyo to Australia depart in the evening and these two tours provide an opportunity to enjoy some sightseeing to picturesque regions outside Tokyo before the drop off at the airport.

Tour 1: Narita Countryside drops off at Narita Airport

Tour 2: Kamakura Tour drops of at Haneda Airport

There is a 3rd option to transfer to central Tokyo with a drop-off at the Hyatt Regency Hotel where you can then make your own way to your onward transport or flight.

TOUR 1: NARITA COUNTRYSIDE

Date: Wednesday 20 May
Depart time: 9:00am
Return time: 4:00pm (drop off Narita Airport)
Tour Grade: 2
Price: $315 per person

Embark on a cultural journey from Tokyo to Ibaraki and Chiba. Begin at Ushiku Daibutsu, the fifth tallest statue in the world at 120 meters, where you can step inside the statue and visit its observation deck for sweeping views of the surrounding gardens.

Continue to Mizu-no-sato waterside rest area for a relaxing lunch by the water, then head to Sawara, a historic town often called “Little Edo.” Stroll along its picturesque canals lined with Edo-era merchant houses, explore charming streets, and discover traditional festival floats that have been part of local culture for centuries. This tour offers a perfect mix of impressive landmarks, scenic landscapes, and authentic Japanese heritage.

TOUR 2: KAMAKURA TOUR

Date: Wednesday 20 May
Depart time: 9:30am
Return time: 4:00pm (drop off Haneda Airport)
Tour Grade: 2
Price: $315 per person

Discover the historic coastal charm of Kamakura, a city rich in samurai heritage and spiritual beauty. Begin your morning at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, admired for its striking red gates, wide stone stairways, and elegant blend of Shinto and traditional Japanese architecture.

There will be free time for lunch (own expense) to explore central Kamakura with its bustling streets like Komachi-dori, filled with local restaurants and charming shops. Continue to Hase-dera Temple, a peaceful sanctuary with tranquil gardens, beloved statues, and sweeping views over Sagami Bay. This day offers cultural discovery, natural beauty, and serene moments, making Kamakura an unforgettable highlight of your journey.

TOUR 3: TRANSFER TO THE CITY

Date: Wednesday 20 May

Depart time: 9:30am

Drop off: 10.30am (approx) Hyatt Regency Tokyo

Price: $30 per person

POST CONFERENCE OPTIONAL TOURS: NAGOYA

Note: The following tours are only for those joining the Central Japan Tour to Nagoya, Kanazawa and Kyoto.

TOUR 1: TOYOTA MUSEUM OF INDUSTRY & TECHNOLOGY

Date: Thursday 21 May
Depart time: 1:00pm
Return time: 5:00pm
Tour Grade: 1
Price: Included

Step into the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology, housed in the striking red-brick building that encompasses the originally factory where the Toyota story started. The museum is organised into two main sections: the Textile Machinery Pavilion, showcasing Toyota’s origins in loom innovation with fully working original machines, and the Automotive Pavilion, featuring interactive displays and historic vehicles. Together, they trace the evolution from craftsmanship to cutting-edge automotive engineering.

TOUR 2: ARIMATSU TIE DYE EXPERIENCE & ATSUTA SHRINE

Date: Thusday 21 May
Depart time: 12:30pm
Return time: 5:30pm
Tour Grade: 1
Price: Included

Discover Nagoya’s living traditions on this cultural journey. Begin at the revered Atsuta Shrine, one of Japan’s most revered and sacred Shinto sites, steeped in over 1,900 years of history and home to sacred treasures including the legendary sword Kusanagi. Stroll through its tranquil grounds, shaded by towering camphor trees and feel the deep spiritual energy of this iconic site.

Continue to Arimatsu, a historic craft town along the historic Tokaido route, famous for its centuries-old art of Shibori tie-dying. Wander through streets lined with beautifully preserved Edo-period merchant houses and artisan shops, offering a glimpse into Japan’s textile heritage. Enjoy a hands-on Shibori tie-dyeing experience in a traditional merchant house, guided by a local artisan. Choose your design, fold and bind the fabric, and watch as vibrant indigo patterns emerge—a unique creation to take home as a personal souvenir. This immersive experience blends history, artistry and spirituality, making it an unforgettable journey into Japan’s cultural heart.

POST CONFERENCE OPTIONAL TOURS: KYOTO

TOUR 1: FUSHIMI INARI TOUR

Date: Tuesday 26 May
Depart time: 9:30am
Return time: 3:30pm
Tour Grade: 2
Price: $185

This tour begins at the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its endless rows of vermilion torii gates and serene mountain trails. Discover one of Japan’s most iconic landmarks at Fushimi Inari Taisha, the head shrine of Inari, the Shinto god of rice and prosperity. Begin at the grand vermilion main gate before entering a world of vivid colour and spiritual tradition.

Wander through the famous Senbon Torii, thousands of striking red gates that wind up Mount Inari, creating a mesmerising tunnel-like path. Along the way, encounter smaller shrines, stone fox statues and scenic viewpoints overlooking Kyoto. Learn about the shrine’s deep cultural significance and the rituals that have been practiced here for centuries.

After exploring the sacred site, enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch at Tsuki no Kurabito, a charming restaurant housed in a renovated sake brewery. The journey concludes with a visit to the Kizakura Brewery, where you can see into the sake-making process and have a chance to taste not only sake but beer as well.

TOUR 2: NANZENJI WALKING TOUR

Date: Tuesday 26 May
Depart time: 9:00am
Return time: 12:00pm
Tour Grade: 2
Price: $60

This walking tour explores Kyoto’s cultural heart, beginning at the historic Keage Incline and leading to the grand temple complex of Nanzenji, one of Kyoto’s most important Zen temples, nestled at the base of the Higashiyama mountains. Stroll through peaceful temple grounds adorned with seasonal flowers and ancient pines and admire the elegant Hojo gardens, a masterpiece of Zen landscaping with raked gravel and perfectly placed stones.

See the striking brick aqueduct, part of the Meiji-era Lake Biwa Canal, which contrasts beautifully with the temple’s traditional architecture and has become an iconic photo spot. Along the way, discover sub-temples and quiet pathways that invite reflection and a deeper connection to Kyoto’s spiritual heritage. Continue along picture-perfect backstreets to Eikando Temple, renowned for its serene ponds and hillside views, before concluding at the stately Heian Shrine. This walking tour blends history, architecture, and natural beauty, offering a tranquil escape from the city’s bustle.

TOUR 3: NARA FULL DAY TOUR

Date: Tuesday 26 May
Depart time: 8:00am
Return time: 5:000pm
Tour Grade: 2
Price: $60

Discover the timeless beauty of Nara, Japan’s first capital and a city that blends history, spirituality, and art. Begin your day with a gentle stroll through Nara Deer Park, where hundreds of free-roaming deer wander among ancient trees and serene pathways. These animals are considered sacred messengers of the gods, adding a unique charm to the experience.

After lunch and some free time in central Nara, explore the Nara National Museum, where exquisite Buddhist art awaits. Admire rare statues, scrolls, and treasures that tell stories of Japan’s spiritual heritage. This day offers a perfect combination of cultural discovery, natural beauty, and peaceful moments, making Nara an unforgettable highlight of your journey.