Review

Jean

Best of Central Japan

March 21, 2024 - April 2, 2024

Wasn\'t quite sure what to expect but I was never disappointed. Samurai is a first class outfit. However, and I recognize that this is personal, I would have liked to get back to the hotel a little earlier to wander around the neighbourhoods. As the tour progressed, though, there was some leway for persons who wanted to slow down.

Itinerary

Brisk pace, as was fully described.

Lodging

All the lodgings were good. Ryokan was my favourite. Comfortable room, simple pleasing decor, beautiful outdoor garden, impressive food choices. Nice segue into Japan outside of big city Tokyo.

Food

Food was a concern, but my pescatarian (no raw fish) stomach survived. I met my daily servings of protein, etc. Fascinated by how meals were presented (almost an art form) the variety and sensible serving sizes. And how a meal was a social event. In a way, this was one of the highlight of the trip for me. It was a foreign experience where even looking on, I could appreciate the choreography and the rituals.

Guides

Great team, each had a strength that was skillfully matched to the particular tour. Not to play favourite, but Yuriko was a force of nature, the rock star of the team.

Pre-Tour Handbook

Documentation was precise, information detailed. Please note that Takayama market closes on Tuesdays and the Kanazawa Handicrafts museum on Thursdays.

Tour Organization

Group size of 10 was comfortable.

Tour Transportation

Transportation choices made for a welcome immersive experience. People watching, building watching and admiring the precision with which boarding and unboarding was handled was priceless.

Would you go on another tour operating by Samurai Tours: Yes!

Would you recommend Samurai Tours to friends or family: Yes!