On our escorted tours we prefer to use traditional, Japanese style ryokans and smaller hotels that blend into the neighborhood rather than staying at large tourist hotels. We carefully select ryokans and hotels in the middle of the sights and culture rather than convenient to transportation hubs. (All of the ryokans and hotels we use, with the exception of the Buddhist temple on Koya-san have en-suite bathrooms with western-style toilets.)
We use only public transportation for these tours. We use the same trains, subways, buses, taxis and ferries that millions of Japanese use every day. By traveling this way, you will get much closer to the people and culture you traveled thousands of miles to discover. You won’t view Japan through a tour bus window on a whirlwind bus tour. And no trip to Japan is complete without at least one ride on the fast and convenient Shinkansens (bullet trains).
Since all of your group transportation costs, admission fees, all breakfasts, half of your lunches and dinners, tips and more are included, there are no hidden costs. And with our included tour cancellation/interruption protection coverage, your travel investment is protected giving you peace of mind.
These packages feature:
If the fun, friendliness and flexibility of small, escorted group travel appeals to you, join us!
Our Grand Tours are perfect for someone who is looking for a well-rounded introduction to Japan. We offer something for everyone on these tours. These tours typically cover broad areas of Japan using public transportation, and have a maximum limit of 16 tour members. They will include many “must see” spots of Japan, plus one or two out-of-the way, remote destinations and are designed for the first-time visitor to Japan or for those who would like a review of the “must-see” spots..
These tours are perfect for the visitor looking for the quieter, less-traveled side of Japan, or for the person who wants to concentrate on a specific area of Japan. Our Regional Tours typically focus on a specific region or regions of Japan using public transportation, and have a maximum of 16 tour members. These tours will include a combination of “must see” spots and out-of-the-way, remote destinations.
Enjoy the Good Life – Japanese style. Our Onsen tour groups only stay at Onsens. Enjoy the best local food specialties and the famous Japanese hospitality while relaxing in some of the best onsen in Japan. The Onsen tours concentrate on remote and isolated destinations, and typically concentrate on a specific area of Japan using public transportation. The group size is limited to 8 tour members.
These tours are designed for those who wish to concentrate on a specific city or cities (Tokyo and Kyoto) using public transportation with a maximum of 12 tour members. These tours will also include day trips outside of the cities as well.
Pilgrimages have been an important part of the spriritual and cultural world of Japan for more than 1000 years. There are numerious pilgrimages all over Japan, each with its own purpose, history and culture. Join us as we follow in the footsteps of pilgrims from ancient times to discover the true meaning of these pilgrimages.
Don’t hesitate to contact us. We are an expert team and we are happy to talk to you.
1.866.316.7268