Experience the thrill of Formula 1® during cherry blossom season and discover Japan’s most iconic cities, culture and cuisines.
Join the Melbourne Cricket Club and Events Travel on a once-in-a-lifetime small group journey through Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara, Hiroshima and beyond, culminating in two unforgettable days at the FORMULA 1 JAPANESE GRAND PRIX 2026 at Suzuka Circuit. Along the way, immerse yourself in the contrasts of modern and traditional Japan — from neon skylines and bullet trains to tranquil temples, tea ceremonies, and peaceful gardens.
Your journey begins in Tokyo with three nights at the renowned Hotel New Otani Garden Tower, including a full-day guided city tour and a day trip to Mt Fuji and Hakone. Continue by Shinkansen to Kyoto, your base for five nights. Here you’ll explore the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Golden Pavilion, sake breweries, and nearby Nara with its famous Todaiji Temple and sacred deer park. Across the weekend, you’ll enjoy qualifying and race day at Suzuka Circuit with reserved V1 Grandstand tickets and seamless coach transfers.
After Kyoto, travel to Hiroshima for a poignant walking tour of the Peace Memorial Park, Museum and Atomic Bomb Dome, before returning to Tokyo for a final night to conclude your journey. Hand-picked hotels, daily breakfast, select group meals, comfortable transport, local guides and the services of an MCC Tour Host throughout, to make this an effortless and enriching adventure.
This 10-night/11-day journey offers F1® fans the rare chance to combine the legendary atmosphere of Suzuka Circuit with Japan’s most celebrated cultural highlights at the most beautiful time of year — cherry blossom season. Share the road with like-minded MCC Member’s and enjoy experienced service every step of the way.
Spots are strictly limited and expected to sell quickly.
Secure your place today — enquire now or request to book.
LIMITED AVAILABILITY
Complete tour:
| OCCUPANCY | PRICE |
|---|---|
| Twin | $12,598 |
| Single | $16,298 |
Without flights and airport transfers (use own flights or Frequent Flyer points):
| OCCUPANCY | PRICE |
|---|---|
| Twin | $10,389 |
| Single | $14,119 |
Please note: Standard hotel rooms in Japan usually feature two separate beds; while we will request a double bed (double share) for you, some hotels may only be able to provide the twin configuration.
All escorted small group tours are accompanied by a Tour Host, who is there to assist with day-to-day activities and provide on-site support. A professional driver operates all group transport unless specified otherwise.
A good level of health and moderate fitness are required to fully enjoy our tours. Activities may include walking significant distances, boarding coaches, navigating uneven surfaces, and visiting attractions, event venues or stadiums. If you have accessibility needs or health concerns, please speak with our team prior to booking so we can advise on suitability and, where possible, make special arrangements in advance.
Travellers acknowledge that neither Events Travel nor its suppliers can provide medical or mobility assistance if you are unable to participate in part or all of the tour due to your health or physical condition. Events Travel will not be liable for any loss, damage, expense, injury, or death arising from such circumstances.
Our itineraries balance guided experiences with free time, allowing you to explore destinations at your own pace or enjoy hotel facilities at leisure. If you wish to arrange additional sightseeing or activities, our team can assist when booking, or your Tour Host can provide recommendations during the trip. Some experiences may sell out well in advance, so we encourage booking optional activities as early as possible. We recommend securing extras soon after making your booking, and we can provide pricing, recommendations and booking links.
Hotels
Many hotels are set within historic or boutique buildings. This often adds charm and character but can also mean that rooms vary in size, shape and layout — even within the same category. Features such as air conditioning, elevators, and modern amenities may be limited or differ between hotels. If you have specific requirements, please let us know prior to booking so we can advise on the most suitable options.
The published itinerary is a guide only and remains subject to change due to operational requirements, weather, venue availability, or other circumstances beyond our control. While every effort will be made to follow the itinerary as described, Events Travel reserves the right to amend, substitute, or vary the order of activities without prior notice to ensure the best possible tour experience.
Hotel information, descriptions and images are provided for reference only and are sourced from official hotel websites or suppliers. Amenities, facilities and features are subject to change without notice. All hotels are subject to confirmation in the final itinerary. If a listed property becomes unavailable, a hotel of an equivalent or higher standard will be offered in its place (“or similar”). In the rare instance that a lower standard property is provided, a price reduction will apply.
All tours are subject to a minimum number of passengers to proceed. The required minimum will vary depending on the tour and is determined by Events Travel in its sole discretion.
If minimum numbers are not met by a specified cut-off date, Events Travel reserves the right to cancel the tour. In such circumstances, affected customers will be notified in writing and offered the following options:
This clause operates in addition to your rights under Australian Consumer Law. Where applicable, refunds will be made in line with your statutory entitlements.
Enhance your journey with flexible extras and tailored services. Whether extending your stay, upgrading comfort, or adding new experiences, our expert team will design the perfect itinerary and source the best available rates for you.
Available extras include:
Enquire now for a no obligation quote today.
The default currency for this event is AUD ($). We accept AUD, USD, GBP, EUR, or NZD on request.
Small Group Tour
Your invoice will include instructions for payment via direct bank transfer (EFT) or secure online credit/debit card payment. Each invoice contains a “Pay Now” link directing you to a secure payment portal for quick and easy card payments.
Invoices can be issued and paid in AUD, USD, GBP, EUR, or NZD. If you would like to pay in a different currency to the default currency for this event, please contact our team to request an updated invoice. The total will be converted at the best available mid-market exchange rate, with updated payment instructions provided.
Yes. Your tour includes official Formula 1® race tickets direct from Suzuka Circuit, located in Grandstand V1 (reserved seats on the Main Straight) for Saturday and Sunday.
Tickets can be removed for Members wishing to spend more time in Kyoto, or upgraded to Grandstand V2 or premium hospitality experiences on request, subject to availability.
Yes. MCC Members and non-member partners are both welcome on the tour. Many Members choose to travel with a partner, family member or friend who is not an MCC Member.
Absolutely. You may book your own flights if you’d like to travel on different dates, use Frequent Flyer points or choose a budget carrier. If you remove the group flights from your package, please note that group airport transfers will not be included. Private transfers can be arranged on request. Our team can also assist with alternative flight options to best suit your plans.
Yes. Flight upgrades are available at the time of booking. Our in-house flight specialists will provide a tailored quote based on your preferred cabin class and travel dates, subject to fare availability.
Yes. Race tickets can be removed at the time of booking only, and a reduction in price will apply. On race days, we can arrange alternative sightseeing or cultural experiences for those not attending the race.
Our MCC Members’ Tours typically range from 20-30 guests, providing the perfect balance of social atmosphere and personalised attention. You’ll have dedicated support from your Events Travel Tour Manager, MCC Tour Host, and local Japanese guides throughout.
A moderate level of mobility is required to comfortably participate in the tour. Expect some walking on sightseeing days (often over uneven surfaces) and standing during guided visits. If you have specific concerns, please contact our team — we’ll be happy to discuss your needs and possible adjustments.
Yes. Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for all guests joining the tour. Policies should include coverage for medical expenses, cancellations, delays, and lost luggage. Our team can quote and issue policies in-house with Cover-More and Go Insurance, as well as provide tailored advice for your needs including a 10% discount from any annual policy.
Yes. Our reservations team can assist with extra nights, flights, or tailored extensions to destinations such as Osaka, Hokkaido, Seoul or Singapore. We offer price matching and other recommendations to ensure the best value for your trip.
Yes. While the itinerary includes guided experiences and group events, there’s also ample free time to explore independently, shop, dine, or relax. Our team will always be available with suggestions for restaurants, attractions and local experiences and you do not need to participate in daily activities if you feel like doing your own thing.
In Japan it’s custom for couples to sleep in separate beds. Therefore most hotels have predominately twin rooms (2 x queen/double/single) and double rooms (1 x king/queen/double) are rare. As such you may receive mixed bedding types across the tour. Where possible we have requested double rooms from each hotel, however it’s limited to availability on a per-hotel basis.
If you have any questions about this product or need assistance with your booking, our team is here to help.
Please email us at res@events.com.au or call us on +61 3 5989 7666.
Call our team on +613 5989 7666 or email res@events.com.au — we're ready!
Your MCC Travel Experience begins as members journey together to Japan — a destination loved for its culture, cuisine and warm hospitality. Depart Melbourne this morning on Qantas flight QF79, arriving in Tokyo at 5:40 PM. After clearing Immigration and Customs, meet your Tour Manager, MCC Tour Host and local guide for the group transfer to the Hotel New Otani Tokyo Garden Tower (available to MCC group flight passengers only).
On arrival, enjoy a smooth check-in with porterage included. The hotel sits within a tranquil 400-year-old Japanese garden in central Chiyoda, moments from Akasaka-Mitsuke Station and the Imperial Palace. This evening is at leisure, with your Tour Manager suggesting a nearby venue for those keen to meet fellow members and share a relaxed drink or light meal.
After breakfast, discover the highlights of Tokyo on a full-day guided tour with your local expert. Visit the tranquil Hamarikyu Garden, explore the historic Sensō-ji Temple and bustling Asakusa district, take in the city from the soaring Tokyo Skytree, and stroll the stylish boulevard of Omotesandō. Return to the hotel to refresh before joining your fellow members for a Welcome Dinner at a local restaurant — the perfect start to your Japanese adventure.
Escape the city for a full-day adventure to Mount Fuji and Hakone. Travel by coach to Japan’s iconic peak and, weather permitting, ascend to the 5th Station for breathtaking views. Cruise across the volcanic waters of Lake Ashi and ride the Komagatake Ropeway for panoramic vistas of Hakone National Park. A group lunch is included before returning to Tokyo, where your evening is free to explore — from the bright lights of Shinjuku to the refined dining of Ginza.
After breakfast, board the Shinkansen bullet train to Nagoya, reaching speeds over 300 km/h as you glide past Mount Fuji and scenic countryside. Visit the Toyota Automobile Museum and Toyota Kaikan Museum before continuing by JR Super Express to Kyoto, your home for the next five nights. Check in to the 5-star Hotel Okura Kyoto, perfectly positioned near the city’s temples and dining districts. The evening is free to relax or take a stroll along the Kamo River to experience Kyoto’s ancient charm.
Today, travel by private coach to the legendary Suzuka Circuit for Formula 1® Qualifying Day. MCC Members enjoy reserved Grandstand V1 seats on the Main Straight with prime views of the pits, grid and finish line. Watch Practice 3 (11:30 AM – 12:30 PM) and the thrilling Qualifying Session (3:00 PM – 4:00 PM) as drivers fight for pole. After an adrenaline-filled day, return to Kyoto to relax, dine nearby, or celebrate with fellow MCC Members.
It’s Race Day at the Formula 1® Japanese Grand Prix 2026. Travel by coach to Suzuka Circuit, where the energy is unmatched. Watch the Drivers’ Parade at 12:00 PM, then settle into your Grandstand V1 seats for the 2:00 PM race start — 53 laps of pure adrenaline through Suzuka’s famous “S” Curves and the legendary 130R. After the race, return to Kyoto to unwind, dine, or celebrate with fellow Members after an unforgettable day of Grand Prix action.
After two thrilling race days, experience Kyoto’s rich culture on a full-day guided tour. Stroll through the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, admire the glittering Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), take part in a Traditional Tea Ceremony, and enjoy a Sake Brewery visit with tastings. Return to the hotel late afternoon and spend the evening at leisure or exploring Kyoto’s world-class dining with fellow Members.
After breakfast, journey by coach to Nara, Japan’s first capital and a peaceful contrast to Kyoto. Visit Tōdai-ji Temple to see the world’s largest bronze Buddha, meet the friendly deer of Nara Park, and admire the lantern-lined Kasuga Taisha Shrine. Return to Kyoto in the afternoon for free time before your final evening, perfect for dining, shopping or strolling the city’s charming streets with fellow Members.
This morning, board the Shinkansen to Hiroshima (approx. 2.5 hours) while your main luggage transfers to Tokyo. Explore the Peace Memorial Park, Peace Memorial Museum and the Atomic Bomb Dome, each offering a moving insight into Hiroshima’s story of resilience and hope. After checking into your hotel, enjoy the evening at leisure — don’t miss trying Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, the city’s signature dish, with fellow Members.
Travel by Shinkansen back to Tokyo (approx. 4 hours) and return to the Hotel New Otani Tokyo Garden Tower for your final night in Japan. The afternoon is free — explore Ginza, Shinjuku or the Toyosu Fish Market at your own pace. This evening, join fellow Members for a relaxed Farewell Dinner nearby — the perfect finale to your unforgettable MCC Members’ Tour.
Enjoy your final morning in Tokyo at leisure — stroll through the Imperial Palace gardens, shop for souvenirs or enjoy one last Japanese meal. Hotel check-out is at 11:00 AM. The MCC Group transfer departs at 3:00 PM for Narita Airport ahead of Qantas flight QF80 (8:25 PM → 8:45 AM). Private transfers are available for independent travellers. The MCC and Events Travel teams are on hand to ensure a seamless farewell or assist with any extended travel plans.
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4-star
Set within central Tokyo, Hotel New Otani Garden Tower is part of the landmark New Otani complex, offering easy access to Tokyo Station, the Imperial Palace and major business and shopping districts. Surrounded by 10 acres of traditional Japanese gardens, the property blends city convenience with a tranquil setting.
5-star
Nestled in the heart of Kyoto at Kawaramachi–Ōike in Nakagyō-ku, Hotel Okura Kyoto blends refined heritage with contemporary comfort. Established in 1888, it has long served as one of Kyoto’s most distinguished landmarks and remains part of the prestigious Okura hotel group. With direct access to the subway at Shiyakushomae Station and within walking distance of Kyoto’s sophisticated shopping district as well as the historic Gion and Higashiyama areas, its location offers both convenience and immersion in the city’s timeless culture.
4-star
Located in the heart of Hiroshima, Hilton Hiroshima is a modern high-rise hotel positioned for both business and leisure. The property offers easy access to the Peace Memorial Park, Hiroshima Castle and downtown shopping and dining.Get in touch to start planning your next sports travel experience.
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