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Japan Trips & Tour Packages

Beautiful landscapes? Check. Cultural experiences? Check. Tastebud-tingling food? Check. Our Japan tours have it all.

There’s a certain allure to Japan – a place where eastern tradition and western modernity collide among otherworldly scenery that’ll take your breath away and refuse to give it back. Add mouthwatering cuisine, a fascinating history, and a multifaceted culture into the mix and it's easy to understand how Japan continues to captivate travelers. From enjoying a sake tasting at a local brewery and soaking in a steaming hot onsen to marveling at World Heritage-listed temples thousands of years old, our tours in Japan promise the ultimate adventure: one you’ll continue to think about long after you return home. 

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Essential Japan

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Japan at a glance

Capital city.

Tokyo (population approximately 37 million)

Approximately 123.1 million

(GMT+09:00) Osaka, Sapporo, Tokyo

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type A (North American/Japanese 2-pin) Type B (American 3-pin)

Learn more about Japan

Culture and customs.

Japan is a multifaceted country made up of many different cultures, rituals, and traditions influenced by Confucianism (introduced in AD285), Buddhism (introduced in AD552), and Shintoism (Japan’s ritualistic native religion). The rise of technology and international trendsetting has also played a part in the culture of Japan today as the younger generation embraces fashion-forwardness, online personas, and high-tech gadgets.

This is in direct contrast to the Confucian-influenced, old-school Japanese culture that the older generations still live by, with a larger emphasis on modesty, respect, and discipline. This can sometimes cause conflict between the two demographics, however, there are still some traditions that are considered sacred regardless of age – tea ceremonies, bowing, kendo, geisha, and sumo.

History and government

Japan has had an interesting past with its ancient history, pre-modern history, and 20th-century history, all influencing the country we all know and love today.

Ancient history

While there is evidence the archipelago has been occupied by humans for around 35,000 years, what we know now as ‘Japan’ began to take shape about 1700 years ago as disparate tribes started to unify.

Pre-modern history

Over the centuries, Japan has alternated between feudal, empirical, religious, and government rule, with each period birthing different styles of art, architecture, and spirituality. Buddhism and Confucianism, introduced in 552 BC and AD 285, respectively, both proved massively influential on the class structures and governance of pre-modern Japan. You can still visit and stay in many Buddhist temples in Japan today.

20th century

It’s difficult to discuss the emergence of modern Japan without talking about WWII. During the war, the Empire of Japan used aggressive military tactics in an attempt to expand its reach and control in Asia and elsewhere. In response, the US Army instigated a strategic bombing campaign that included the notorious use of nuclear weapons in Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The result of these attacks was mass human and structural devastation.

These bombings, along with depleted armed forces and the looming threat of invasion from the Soviet Union, led the Empire of Japan to surrender unconditionally to the Allies in September 1945.

The ‘Empire of Japan’ became ‘Japan’ as part of the extensive terms of surrender, and the nation faced the prospect of rebuilding and reinventing itself in the second half of the 20th century.    

After WWII, Japan found its feet operating as a free-market economy based around the manufacture and export of automobiles and electronics, experiencing particularly rapid growth between 1960 and the late 1980s. The late 20th century saw the country emerge as an economic superpower, and with that came the flourishing of several cultural sectors, such as the arts and cuisine. 

Top places to visit in Japan

One minute you’re walking through a former black-market quarter, the next you’re paying your respects at a 1400-year-old temple. Eclectic Tokyo is an essential part of any visit to Japan.

If you’ve ever eaten at a sushi train restaurant, you’ve got the underrated city of Osaka to thank! The motto in this city is 'kuidaore' which roughly translates as ‘eat until you drop’ . You can consider that a (friendly) order.

The home of temples, palaces and the Gion district (where geisha live and work), Kyoto is also where you’ll find the famed Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine.

4. Kanazawa

A great place to see a slice of old Japan, with classic sculpted gardens, a restored Old Town and well-preserved architecture from a variety of eras.

5. Hiroshima

Most travelers visit Hiroshima to see the Peace Memorial Park, constructed around the hypocentre of the atomic bomb that destroyed the city in 1945. Follow this up with nearby Miyajima, a tranquil island where tame deer roam the streets. 

6. Yudanaka

This quaint resort town is best experienced in the winter, when snow coats the normally evergreen trees and Japanese macaques come down from the mountains to bathe and groom each other in the steaming natural hot springs of Jigokudani (Hell Valley).

Geography and environment

Japan is an archipelago of more than 6000 islands located in the Pacific Ocean in Asia . The main islands are Hokkaido, Honshu, Kyushu and Shikoku. Lying on the Pacific Ring of Fire, Japan is prone to destructive earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic activity. The most famous volcano, Mount Fuji , is also Japan's highest peak and only 100km from Tokyo.

Japan has plenty of forested, mountainous terrain that is unsuitable for agriculture and development, so much of the population lives in the coastal cities. This has led Japan to become one of the most densely populated countries in the world and the majority of its inhabitants are used to living in very small spaces, with a heavy reliance on public transport.

Although life is fast-paced and crowded in cities like Tokyo and Osaka, rural areas typically feature low-density, traditional housing and a slower pace of life surrounded by greenery such as lush forests and plenty of moss-covered boulders. 

Shopping in Japan is fun but expensive, so be sure to have a budget for souvenirs planned in advance! In cities like Tokyo, there are loads of quirky stores and funky galleries showcasing the works of independent fashion designers and gadget creators. From the outlandish to the kitsch, you're guaranteed to find loads of colorful clothing and edgy art that you won't be able to find elsewhere. 

If you’re planning to bring back leaf tea or any other perishable or edible items, it's a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country. Australia and New Zealand, in particular, have strict quarantine laws.

What to buy

• Kimonos This quintessential Japanese souvenir looks great hung on the wall as an interesting decorative piece. If you plan on wearing one, make sure you do so respectfully and learn the correct way to fold the garment.
• Paper lanterns, kites and fans Japanese paper goods make great, relatively inexpensive souvenirs. Choose from high-quality, traditionally-made kites or delicate rice paper lanterns.
• Electronics Shops in Japan are bursting with the latest tech gadgets. Just be sure to check that they are compatible for use at home.
• Fashion Have fun with the amazing diversity of popular street culture fashion available in Japan. Vibrant, brash and sometimes bizarre – find something that no one back at home will be wearing.
• Anime and manga paraphernalia Another inexpensive gift option, even for people who can’t read Japanese. Pick up a book, magazine, t-shirt or print from one of Japan’s many anime and manga stores.

Festivals and events

If you want an adventure with a point of difference, consider planning your travels to coincide with these popular festive events in Japan. 

Sapporo Winter Festival

Held every February since 1950, this festival features hundreds of statues and ice sculptures, snow slides and mazes, regional food and artistic performances. Winter in Japan is truly amazing, and the Sapporo Winter Festival is a magical way to celebrate.

Hadaka Matsuri

Head to Okayama to watch thousands of men wearing nothing but loincloths vie to touch the chosen 'naked man'. It may look like a bizarre male-bonding exercise but it's actually a historic cleansing ritual dating back thousands of years. Dates change yearly.

Fuji Rock Festival

Held annually in the stunning surroundings of the Naeba Ski Resort, this outdoor music festival is huge and draws in big-name acts and local bands Thousands of music lovers flock to Naeba for three days of camping, music and partying in the summer months. 

Read more about festivals in Japan

Public holidays that may impact travel include:

Coming of Age Day

National Foundation Day

Emperor's Birthday

Vernal/Spring Equinox Day

Constitution Day

Greenery Day

Children's Day

Marine Day, also known as Sea or Ocean Day

Mountain Day

Respect-for-the-Aged Day

Autumnal Equinox Day

Health and Sports Day

Culture Day

Labor Thanksgiving Day

Please note dates of Japan's public holidays may vary.

Further reading

For inspiring stories to prepare you for your Japan adventure, check out these books:

• The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle – Haruki Murakami
• Sembazuru – Yasunari Kawabata
• Moshi Moshi – Banana Yoshimoto
• Goodnight Punpun – Inio Asano
• Okinawa Notes – Kenzaburo Oe
•  A History of Japan – George Sansom
• Embracing Defeat – John W Dower

Japan travel FAQs

Do i need to purchase travel insurance before traveling.

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Do I need a visa to travel to Japan?

Under current restrictions, a visa is required to enter Japan as a tourist. We recommend you apply for your visa no later than one month before your departure date. Please contact your local consulate or embassy for more information.

This page is for general information only and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to obtain relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates. 

Last updated: 15 June, 2023 

Is tipping customary in Japan?

Tipping isn't customary in Japan and is not expected – in fact, it will sometimes be considered impolite. Some inns or ryokans may leave a small envelope in your room where a small gratuity can be left for housekeeping staff.

What is the internet access like in Japan?

Internet access is excellent in Japan, with one of the most developed high-speed internet networks in the world. Internet cafes and wi-fi hotspots are easily found in most cities and major towns.

Can I use my cell while in Japan?

Cell phone coverage is excellent in Japan but be aware that talking loudly on your phone in public places (like in train carriages) is frowned upon. You will be expected to hide your mouth behind your hand if you must take a call in public. If you want to use your cell phone, ensure global roaming is activated before you arrive (but be aware of the fees this may incur).

What are the toilets like in Japan?

In Japan, toilets range from high-tech bidets to standard western-style flushable toilets to squat toilets, which are still common outside the city. Sometimes you may need to pay for toilet paper, which can usually be purchased from a vending machine nearby.

What will it cost for a...?

Japan's unit of currency is the yen:

• Bento box = YEN 550
• Bowl of ramen = YEN 650-1,200
• Can of beer = YEN 250
• Coffee = YEN 100-600
• Convenience store snack = YEN 200-500

Can I drink the water in Japan?

Drinking water from taps in Japan is considered safe. For environmental reasons, try to use a refillable water bottle rather than buying bottled water. Major cities often have water fountains in train stations.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Japan?

Major credit cards are accepted by some stores; however, Japan is still very much a cash culture and as such, some places may not accept credit cards. Ensure you carry enough cash to cover purchases.

What is ATM access like in Japan?

ATMs are common in Japan but unfortunately many of them don't accept foreign-issued cards. However, you can access cash from non-Japanese bank accounts via the Cirrus and Maestro systems at all post office ATMs around the country, as well as ATMs at 7-Eleven convenience stores.

What public holidays are celebrated in Japan?

• 1 Jan: New Year's Day
• *Coming of Age Day
• 11 Feb: National Foundation Day
• 23 Feb: Emperor's Birthday
• *20 Mar: Vernal/Spring Equinox Day
• 29 Apr: Showa Day
• 3 May: Constitution Day
• 4 May: Greenery Day
• 5 May: Children's Day
• *Jul: Marine Day, also known as Sea or Ocean Day
• 11 Aug: Mountain Day
• *Sep: Respect-for-the-Aged Day
• *23 Sep: Autumnal Equinox Day
• *Oct: Health and Sports Day
• 3 Nov: Culture Day
• 23 Nov: Labour Thanksgiving Day

* Please note, Japan public holidays may vary.

When is the best time to travel to Japan?

There’s never a bad time to travel to Japan but the months that see the most travelers are March, April, and May as the weather is mild and the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. The warm weather (with low humidity levels) of September, October, and November are also suitable months to visit Japan – you’ll even be treated to landscapes colored with oranges, reds, and browns for autumn. While winter can be cold, this is the best time for snow activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and snow festivals. On the other hand, the summer months see high humidity levels that can leave some travelers uncomfortable.

What is the weather like in Japan?

• Spring (March to May): temperatures range from 50 to 68°F, with conditions getting sunnier and clearer towards the end of the season.
• Summer (June to August): temperatures range from 70 to 90°F depending on where you are. It’s warmer in the south than in the north. You can expect some rain in June, and it can get quite humid towards the end of the season.
• Fall (September to November): temperatures range from 45 to 68°F. The humidity starts to calm down in September, but days stay warm until October. Nights can be chilly.  
• Winter (December to February): break out the coats, temperatures during winter range from 32 to 59°F. The mountains and the north experience snowfall .

How safe is Japan?

Japan is generally safe and is rated among the safest countries in the world. Reports of crime such as theft are very low and travelers are often stunned by the fact that locals leave belongings unaccompanied in cafes and bars (though we certainly don’t recommend it!). 

Is Japan safe for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

LGBTQIA+ travelers shouldn’t have any issues visiting Japan with violence, outright hostility or overt discrimination extremely rare. However, Japan’s older generation still holds conservative values when it comes to LGBTQIA+ sexuality and non-binary gender expression, especially those that live in regional areas.

Same-sex relationships are considered legal in some districts (such as Tokyo); however, same-sex marriage hasn’t been legalized yet. Public displays of affection are often frowned upon, regardless of sex, gender, or sexual orientation so keep that in mind when you’re out in public. 

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting  Equaldex  or  ILGA  before you travel.

Is Japan accessible for travelers with disabilities?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

The needs of travelers with mobility issues, including wheelchair users, are considered in the infrastructure in major cities. Train stations have lifts (elevators), wide turnstiles and (for the most part) raised platforms so that wheelchair users can glide onto the train without being assisted.  Sidewalks in Japanese cities are sometimes sloped towards the road, which can make traveling a straight line difficult for wheelchair users or people with vision impairment.

It is common practice in Japan to remove shoes when entering a home. Wheelchair users should carry something to wipe down their wheels in respect of this custom. Apply the same logic for other mobility aids such as canes.

Ryokans and other traditional accommodation can be difficult to navigate for people with limited mobility, but accessible hotel options are plentiful in the major cities.

Travelers with vision impairment may find the tactile yellow strips that guide the way to various places in train stations helpful, though please note that there is no barrier between the train tracks and platforms.

If you have a battery-operated hearing aid, it’s a good idea to bring extra batteries or familiarise yourself with the Japanese equivalent of the batteries it takes.

If you do live with a visual, hearing or other impairment, let your booking agent or group leader know early on so they’re aware and suitable arrangements can be made. As a general rule, knowing some common words in the local language, carrying a written itinerary with you and taking to the streets in a group, rather than solo, can help make your travel experience the best it can be.

What should I wear in Japan?

Summer months can be incredibly hot and sticky, so loose, lightweight and breathable clothing is essential.

Spring and autumn can be crisp and cold, so you might want to pack thermal layers in addition to your coat and boots. 

Outside of Hokkaido and the mountains, the winter temperatures in Japan are manageable as long as you have regular cold-weather clothes like a good coat, pair of gloves, a winter hat and a scarf. 

The style of dress common for women in Japan may be a little more covered up than you are used to, particularly outside the major cities.

Packing comfortable trousers is essential as you may find yourself sitting cross-legged on the floor during your stay. 

What are some common phrases/words I should learn before my trip to Japan?

Having a basic understanding of the language and culture of the country you're visiting can go a long way when it comes to, not only communicating efficiently but your overall trip experience as well. Some common phrases you need to learn are: 

• 'hello' - Konnichiwa
• 'good morning' - Ohayō 
• 'thank you' - Arigatou Gozaimasu
• 'please' - Onegaishimasu

What religions do they practice in Japan?

There are two dominant religions in Japan - Shinto and Buddhism. The majority of Japanese people practice both simultaneously, however, there is a small number of the population that practise other religions such as Christianity, Judaism, Hinduism, and Islam. 

What are the best places to visit in Japan?

From the neon-lit streets of Tokyo to the peaceful nature of the Japanese Alps, there are plenty of bucket-list destinations to include on your itinerary of Japan. We know it's hard to see everything but here are a few of our favourite places to visit in Japan: 

What are the best things to see in Japan?

Japan isn't short of spectacular attractions to wander through and fascinating historical landmarks to marvel at but it's pretty hard to do it all on your trip to Japan. So you don't miss the things you simply have to see, we've put together a short list of parks, temples, and monuments worth visiting. Happy exploring! 

• Hiroshima Peace Park 
• Cherry blossom trees
• Osaka Castle
• Himeji Castle

What should I eat in Japan?

Food lovers, including  vegetarians and vegans , will be more than satisfied with the variety and quality of Japanese cuisine. With a focus on fresh, seasonal produce that is prepared meticulously and presented beautifully, dining in Japan is a memorable experience.

What drinks should I try in Japan?

From craft beer to sake, Japan has plenty of tasty liquids to keep you hydrated throughout your travels.

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

What is it like traveling on a small group tour?

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or you’re about to embark on your first trip, traveling can be as intimidating as it is exciting. That's the beauty of a small group tour. From handling the logistics and organizing amazing cultural activities to local leaders who know each destination like the back of their hand (like which street has the best markets and where to get the most authentic food), traveling on a small group tour with Intrepid will give you unforgettable travel experiences without the hassle that comes with exploring a new place. Plus, you'll have ready-made friends to share the journey with. All you have to do is turn up with a healthy sense of adventure and we’ll take care of the rest.

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners, Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilize school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

Does my Intrepid trip include airfare?

While our Intrepid trips include many modes of transport, from tuk-tuks to overland vehicles, bullet trains and feluccas, airfare to and from your home country is not included in your tour package.

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Japan Tour Companies

List of japan travel companies & tour operators with 234788 reviews.

Stunning Tours

• Excellent - 382 reviews for Japan tours

My wife and I recently had the pleasure of going on this tour of Japan, and overall, it was a wonderful experience. Our tour guide, Shin, was exceptional—knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive, which greatly enhanced our trip. However, we did encounter one issue that slightly marred our tour. We were assigned a smoking room on a smoking floor, and by the time we realized this, we were too tired to address it. It would have been helpful if there was a better system to ensure guests are not placed in smoking rooms unless specifically requested. This is something that could be improved for the future. Also, when it came time to pay for the optional trip to Hiroshima, we (and other tour members) were told upfront that credit cards could be used to pay for that extra part. When we arrived, we were told we needed cash, and there was no way to accept credit cards. I contacted you here and got a response that was not right, and you said you would look into it. We never heard back from you. Luckily, everyone who wanted to go could get the money out of the ATM, but why not just include the Hiroshima part as something you can either pay extra for upfront or include it? It was one of our favorite days. Despite these minor setbacks, we thoroughly enjoyed our tour and would recommend it to others.

Oba was an excellent guide. Kept us informed at all times.

Supera Tours

• Excellent - 113 reviews for Japan tours

We used Tourradar to search for tours to Hokkaido geared for Seniors and found Supera Tours. Although their tour was not specifically geared for Seniors, it was very well organized, planned out with activities and itinerary balanced and not overly packed or scheduled. Their prep and planning team did an excellent job in coordinating the lodging, food and travel/transportation time. Everything far exceeded our expectations and went so smoothly! Lodging were all 5***** (Onsens every night and even our own private one)!!! Meals were wonderful gastronomic delights ranging from Michelin Star, traditional and nouvelle Kaiseki, area restaurant specialties to the Fish Market in Kushiro. And our tour guide, Hui, was so very diligent, considerate and patient! She checked with each and every tour member after room check-in to make sure we were all comfortable and had everything we needed. We were especially grateful for her thoughtfulness since we were "seniors with needs"and had things prepared ahead of time. We felt well taken care of and this was truly an enjoyable and stress free vacation!! My husband and I were the only "first timers" with Supera on this tour. All the others were repeat guests. Easy to understand! We look forward to joining the ranks soon!

The whole experience was seamless. Supera seems to be a very good company with good prompt feedback at the planning stage. Eriko was an outstanding tour guide. She was knowledgeable, helpful, funny, kind and incredibly hardworking. I can't speak too highly of her. The food and accommodation surpassed my expectations as did the way the s company structured the tour. I highly recommend the Japan tour with Eriko.

• Excellent - 13,481 reviews for Japan tours

The entire trip was very good. It was so wonderful to realize that we picked the best trip to Japan for us. We got to see all of my top places and experiences, had the best tour guide in Irene Perez with Explore!, and could not have had the best travel tour companions. My husband and I were the senior members; we were also the least experienced with world travel, and the only ones from the US. But we never felt rushed or that we held the tour back. And it would not be the same anywhere but Japan, where everyone we met wanted us to have the best experience.

The mesmerising beauty of the snow monkeys, the solemnity of Hiroshima, and the cultural beauty of Kyoto! As well, the SUPER EXPERIENCE of watching our okonomyaki being assembled before our eyes in Hiroshima

Europamundo

• Good - 4,378 reviews for Japan tours

Spanish travellers often late, talked/laughing while English-speaking Guide was speaking so felt could have been more assertive

Most, if not all the tour guides were: knowledgable, humorous, and considerate. At one point where my group was smaller (just me), my english speaking guide was very kind. She talked with me and helped incorporate my interests into the scheduled free time. She recommended me which districts in Tokyo I should check out to see more anime/gaming shops and places to shop for young stylish clothing. I had a great experience as an english only speaker. Even as part of the minority on the tour who only spoke english, the tour guides didn't leave us out by any means. Although some spots felt a bit rushed, it is understandable considering just how much you will see. I can confidently recommend this tour.

On The Go Tours

• Excellent - 3,005 reviews for Japan tours

First tour guide for the first 8 days was great, second tour guide tried hard and seemed lovely as a person, but she was disorganized, oblivious of who was or wasn’t following her, was unaware of where she was going at times, and just didn’t seem like she knew how to do the job. I’m not the only one who felt that way. Your pre trip support was excellent and accommodating, but having taken a number of tours with other organizations, Rick steve’s in Europe, you charge a lot when offering very little. I will not recommend your tour group to anyone, and will most likely discourage others from taking one.

Genuinely fast paced very active tour with moderate quality hotels and well priced

Bamba Travel

• Good - 1,697 reviews for Japan tours

The tour organizer has very, very poor communication, planning and organizational skills. The final itinerary was sent 2weeks before the start of the actual trip, I have to remind them by email to send it to us asap as they promised it will be sent a month before the actual trip. We where told initially that they will arrange our airport transfer and have told them we will be arriving two days before the actual tour, but after days before we've been told that we have to do it ourselves. The two hotel from original itinerary was changed on the final one provided so it caused some confusion on our side. Their representative met with us on the first day of the tour to sort out our JR. Pass and it took 2hours of our precious time to do this, we almost missed the pre-booked museum that day. Their hotel choices where below average, first one is in Ikeburo with bfast included but only seaweed soup and toast where given, again we have to travel to Shinjuku station to get the train to Hakone (very inconvenient), they could just chosen a hotel in Shinjuku instead. In the morning next we arrived in Hakone, we supposed to drop off our luggage at the next hotel to free our hands to roam around the area and found that it was closed and nobody around to asked for information so we have to dragged our luggage back to the station to put them in the locker. I have contacted their representative but he even asked me the name of the hotel (unbelievable, how could he not know all this details). They replied around 2.30ish pm and was told it was unmanned and we where given a PIN number to access, again they should have known this important details and informed us even the day/night before the trip. The next day we travelled again to Kyoto, to avoid the hassle of dropping off our luggage palarva we've decided to use the coin lockers at the station. It was late in the afternoon when we arrived at the hotel the receptionist asked us to pay City Tax 1200yen for 3nights stay, this again we where unaware of. I messaged the representative and to the people on the WhatsApp group and question about this city tax, they said they will refund me with the money so no choice I have paid.Again breakfast was included but only varieties of bread available and some butter and jams and coffee or water. Unsatisfied again. On arrival at Hiroshima after 3days this is where the confusion happens as the name of the hotel was different on the final itinerary they've sent us (this was our mistake we owned this as we didn't checked the final itinerary). We've only stayed at the Flex hotel (supposed to be two nights) for a night as wanting to have more time in Osaka instead (paid privately for one night

I recently took a trip to Japan and visited Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Osaka, and I can confidently say it was one of the best travel experiences I've ever had! The tours were fantastic and provided great insights into each city's culture and history. The transportation was also very reliable, making it easy to get around from one city to another. The accommodations were top-notch, with comfortable rooms and excellent service. I highly recommend booking a trip to Japan with Bamba and experiencing all that it has to offer!

• Good - 9 reviews for Japan tours

The tour was a great experience for us, seeing it was the first time we booked one. The tour host was supportive all the way through the duration of the tour in giving instructions and advice to make our travel plans as easy as possible. Where changes needed to be made to the itinerary, due to unforeseen circumstances, we were updated quickly and issued a refund, for an event that had to be cancelled, due to adverse weather condition warnings. We were very pleased with the daily tours we went on. The guides were very informative helpful and courteous. The choice of attractions to visit was great as well, such as the temples in Tokyo and the Tokyo Sky Tree Attraction. The hotel stays were great also. We would without hesitation use this company again, if we choose to book a tour to another country in the near future. The only negative experience we had, was the weather being so hot at the time of year in August, (38 degrees plus most times) we would shelter in air-conditioned places as much as possible during the day. Many thanks to this company, for the smooth and memorable experience.

A good mix of things to do. I really appreciated the inter-city travel and accommodation being sorted; especially as it was my first tie in Japan.

Tomato Travel

• Excellent - 49 reviews for Japan tours

We were so happy to visit japan, we visited different cities and enjoyed every single day The itinerary was comprehensive we managed to visit many places during our tour Highly recommend

This was a good tour. We visited several sites. The only problem was the weather. I went in the middle of July. The weather was extremely hot and humid. We walked a lot and ended up soaked with sweat. Otherwise, the places we visited were great. I'm planning on going back either in October or in April when it is cool. Masayo, our tour guide, was a knowledgeable person of the Japanese culture and history. I felt in the good way asa chick guided by momma hen. She was great.

Discovi Travel

• Excellent - 25 reviews for Japan tours

Had an overall great time with the tour! The itinerary is pretty laid-back and was tailored for our group interests, and the people were all very fun to hang with! Would definitely take some time after the tour to explore outside of the Tokyo area, but this is a great launch pad if you want to learn the ropes of navigating the island without too much stress.

This has been such an experience, I will never forget my time in NY. The tour guide, Lloyd, was the best, he showed us the best places to eat and took us to the most beautiful temples and historical spots, which he knew the history of so well. I feel like not only I visited and experienced Japan in a special way, I learned so much from Japan's culture and lifestyle in a way I never would have learned if I went on a different tour.

Miller Reisen

• Excellent - 23 reviews for Japan tours
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Culture Trip

• Excellent - 251 reviews for Japan tours

Sehr gutes Programm/Etappen und meist sehr gute Organisation während der Reise. Der Reiseleiter war wenig enthusiastisch und die Mitreisenden zum Teil so alt, dass sie die Fußmärsche nicht bewältigen konnten und auf ein Taxi ausweichen mussten. Hier wäre eine bessere Kommunikation zwischen dem Anbieter und den Teilnehmern vorab dringend erforderlich gewesen!

Our 12 day tour was good but overall, there was just far too much packed in. It was a ridiculous pace, even for the 24 year old in our group! There was rarely time to enjoy what we were seeing or experiencing as we raced from one thing to the next. Sneaking a pic was a challenge. Our tour guide did an amazing job getting 13 people on and off trains and bought treats for us to try. Unfortunately he didn't mention there were lockers when we were lugging around our 2 day back, often started speaking before everyone was present and generally was a bit light on with information. Hotels were more basic than expected and a few were different to what was scheduled. This tour would suit people interested in ticking things off their tour list and happy to race around constantly rather than those who'd like a moment to catch their breath and soak up some amazing sights.

Oasis Travel

• Excellent - 4 reviews for Japan tours

Agate Travel

• Excellent - 290 reviews for Japan tours

I booked this tour last minute. It was an amazing experience and went beyond my expectations. The travel consultant Nicole has been friendly and helpful, always responded to me promptly. The tour guide in TOKYO was enthusiastic. He answered my questions with detailed information. I enjoyed chatting with him... He also took me nice pictures of Mount FUJI. Here I have to say I was VERY VERY lucky! The weather on the day was favourable and I was able to see the breathtaking view of FUJI. Thanks to agate travel for this wonderful travel experience. Highly recommend!

I was traveling with my spouse, tween, and 70+ year-old parents. We visited during the busy cherry blossom season. We were lucky as we arrived during the peak of this season and cherry blossoms were abundant. It was also quite crowded, so I appreciated my family having our own guide (versus being part of a bigger tour group). Also, it was nice to be picked up at the airport so that we didn't have to find our way around a foreign country upon arrival. I think the value was good considering it included the hotel, entrance fees to places visited, and public transportation fares. It was nice not to have to worry about the logistics of getting from one place to another in a foreign country. Our online tour consultant was very responsive and helpful. Also, the guides were knowledgeable, kind, and accommodating. The biggest challenge is that the days involved quite a bit of walking, which was difficult for my elderly parents. If I convince them to go on another trip, I would add in more leisurely days. Maybe that's my fault for not asking for some lighter days. I'm a bit torn because as a traveler, you do want to make the most of each day you are there to visit all the beautiful sites; but, it can also be exhausting. This also meant having to lug luggage around various trains to the various destinations. We stayed in four different hotels as we traveled across Japan. It was a packed itinerary; we were able to see a lot in a short amount of time. Over the course of five days, we visited Tokyo, Mt. Fuji, Nara, Kyoto, Hiroshima, & Miyajima Island. Overall, an excellent trip that provided a snapshot of Japan. I would rate it four and a half stars if I could (but only whole stars were allowed). I recommend it for most families (including those with little ones and elderly); I would just add more rest days/free time (or fewer site visits per day), especially if you have members in your party that are young or elderly. Also, if you have members that have mobility issues (such as those in a wheelchair), I would work with the tour consultant as there were places that would be difficult to access. My consultant was great; I just don't think I took advantage of having chosen a “private, tailor-made" tour as much as I should have. I relied and trusted the recommendations. To be clear, their recommendations were all top notch, I just should have taken my family's (which included elderly parents) abilities more into account and been more vocal with what would be best to accommodate my specific family's needs.

One Life Adventures

• Excellent - 8,750 reviews for Japan tours

The best tour I have ever done! On this tour you don't just visit big mega cities, you get a feeling for the country and its people. Dale was the best guide you could ask for. He took us to the most hidden restaurants, always had a tip (where to buy the best chopsticks, for example) or knew how to escape the tourist crowds. There was always plenty of free time to either explore on our own or be guided by Dale's suggestions. The atmosphere was always great! My personal highlights were the temple visits and the visit to Hakone (even though it was raining that day). Thank you Dale for making this tour an unforgettable experience!

An amazing trip for a first time in Japan. With so many sights to behold and activities to absorb you in the culture; this was overall an amazing experience. Only regret is wasting my free time between scheduled activities either catching up on sleep or needing to get back to the hotel to charge my phone. With an itinerary full of amazing activities you will feel a sense of rush and wishing you could have more time to slow down. Tour guide was amazing and just beaming with passion. But importantly was the perfect and friendly social bridge one could have when talking to the locals. It makes me reflect on how important knowing the language myself would be if i was every to travel here on my own. You miss out on so many chance to connect with new people. Downside was the unexpected weather that disrupted the tour mid way. Highly recommend keeping an eye on upcoming weather risks that could occur or you'll end up missing out on more what you paid for. Regardless this has nothing against our guide. As a matter of fact he went above and beyond to make sure we all got the travel arrangements needed to get back on track in Kyoto. So if you have Andrew Corbin as a guide then know you are in safe and friendly hands

Indus Travels

• Excellent - 263 reviews for Japan tours

A really well organised trip with very good guides in Japan. From the outset the communication from Indus was excellent. We loved the "Indus app" that gave us al the info we needed for our trip. We were fortunate that we had a small group of 12 people only so we had a wonderful one on one experience with each of our guides in Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima and Osaka.

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Tokyo, the capital of Japan, is a major global hub where towering skyscrapers and historic temples reflect a blend of tradition and modernity. The city features iconic landmarks like Tokyo Tower and Shibuya's Scramble Crossing, along with a rich array of dining, shopping, and cultural activities, ensuring new experiences with every visit. Explore more >

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Shibuya Scramble Crossing, a symbol of Tokyo's dynamism, is the world's busiest pedestrian intersection. The iconic crossing, surrounded by shopping and entertainment venues, is a must-see for experiencing contemporary Japanese culture and fashion.

Tokyo Skytree stands as a testament to Japanese ingenuity, soaring 634 meters high, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into cutting-edge technology and tradition.

Senso-ji, Tokyo's oldest temple, is renowned for its vibrant "Kaminarimon" gate and large lantern. The temple complex includes a five-story pagoda and the bustling Nakamise-dori, lined with shops selling traditional souvenirs and snacks. Throughout the year, the temple hosts various festivals that showcase Japanese traditions.

Akihabara, or "Electric Town," is a hub for electronics, anime, and otaku culture. Originating as a post-war electronics market, it now attracts visitors with its vast array of tech goods, themed cafes, and stores specializing in anime and manga.

The Imperial Palace, the residence of Japan's Emperor, offers tranquility amidst Tokyo's hustle. Visitors can explore the East Gardens' classic Japanese landscaping, the verdant Outer Gardens, and the iconic Nijubashi Bridge, all symbolizing Japan's rich history and royal traditions.

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Japan offers an incredible array of cultural and culinary experiences, from the sublime to the exhilarating. We don’t believe one size fits all, and design your trip just for you.

Laurel S., New York City

Boutique Japan helped us plan the trip of a lifetime. They made excellent suggestions, taking into account our interests. The itinerary, the accommodations, and the guides they arranged for us were all superb. Everything went smoothly thanks to their careful planning. We really benefitted from their detailed knowledge of and passion for Japan. We highly… Read More

Casey & TJ, New York City

Boutique Japan designed the perfect luxury honeymoon. Organizing a trip can be a challenging task, so we were thrilled to find someone as knowledgeable and easy to work with. We were consistently impressed with the attention to detail in each element of the journey. Boutique Japan exceeded our expectations. From booking truly impressive accommodations to… Read More

Catherine and Paul, Australia

We had a truly wonderful time in Japan. Lots of people have asked what was the highlight and it really is hard to pick one, or even a few. We really enjoyed the Tsukiji market, the visit to Yanaka, the Kiyosumi Garden, all the gardens in Kyoto, the evening in Osaka, the lunch with the… Read More

Lyn & Peter, Australia

We are very experienced, independent, international travelers but we found trying to plan and book a personalised holiday in Japan in late 2015 to be very challenging. That is until we discovered the wonderful team at Boutique Japan. After describing our areas of particular interest in art, architecture, culture and fitness, Andres and his team… Read More

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Emily Choate, Atlanta

We worked with Boutique Japan for a 12-day whirlwind trip to Japan in November for my husband and myself. I am actually someone who loves to research and plan trips, but knew I didn't have the time to do it as thoroughly as this once-in-a-lifetime warranted. They helped us create an incredible trip that revolved… Read More

Ally Vain & Chris Tillotson, Dallas

Boutique Japan brought our dream Honeymoon Trip to life. My husband and I visited Japan to celebrate our Honeymoon and the experience Boutique Japan provided for us was more than we could have imagined. I cannot reiterate enough, we could not have done this without them! The staff was extremely responsive, professional and accommodating every… Read More

Brett & Kirsten, California

My wife and I just got back from our Boutique Japan trip, and it was fantastic. Andres has excellent attention to detail, and the information they put together was tremendously helpful along the way. Some say Americans will never feel as foreign anywhere in the world as they do when they're in Japan, but all… Read More

Bobby Wollman, Los Angeles

Our trip was so perfect from initially working with Roni and then Piper and the rest of the team. The travel arrangements were awesome and communicated so very clearly. The Axus app was terrific. Every time I thought about what to do somewhere (when there was time) the answer came (as if you knew that's… Read More

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Paula Alsher, Marietta, Georgia

Boutique Japan did a fantastic job of planning an itinerary that completely matched our vision. Our group of 4 came away feeling that for 2 weeks, we had the opportunity to become immersed in the daily life of the Japanese. The guides, the hotels, and the experiences were all expertly planned. The app they provided… Read More

Daniel Weinand, Canada

Thank you so much for arranging our travel! It was such a wonderful time and I can't wait to go back to Japan. It wouldn't have been this amazing experience without your help. Everything worked out perfectly and the schedule was spaced out and paced in a way that allowed us to explore some things… Read More

Rachel K., Brooklyn, NY

We really had an amazing time. We loved Japan, and the experience was made incredibly special by the thoughtfulness and care that went into the planning. Each place was so different and wonderful in its own way. We felt we got a good sense of the country, even though we were there for such a… Read More

Judy Lau, Australia

Boutique Japan has made our trip to Japan brilliant and totally unforgettable. I have been to Japan many times, even studied there for some time. The experience from this trip is still right at the top of my list, in terms of accommodation, arrangement (everyone's happy!), and food (two thumbs up!!). Thank you very much… Read More

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From April 13th to October 13th, 2025 , Osaka hosts the 32nd edition of the World Expo. For this unmissable international event, the chosen theme is " Designing the society of the future and imagining our life of tomorrow ". 

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Find all you need to know about Tokyo, Japan's bustling capital: Tokyo area guides, Tokyo parks, Tokyo museums and the city's restaurants and bars.

Kyoto, the former imperial capital, is the most visited city in japan after Tokyo. It is traditional, spiritual, gastronomic and modern all at once, the city is an infinite source of fascination for those who explore it. Visiting Kyoto is an opportunity t...

This medium-sized city, nestled between the Sea of Japan and the Japanese Alps, has plenty to offer travelers: exceptional historical sites, renowned art museums, traditional cuisine and refined craftwork. Kanazawa is a must-see destination. 

Some impressions endure time and appeal to generations to come. In Japan, Osaka is always looking to the future. A major hub of innovations, the economic capital of Kansai has a taste for commerce, audacity, and hospitality. Today, Osaka is the third...

Nara is located in the Kansai region and was Japan's first imperial capital. Nara has a wealth of historical and cultural heritage and of course deer. Home to many treasures that would be a shame to miss on your visit to Japan. 

What is Hiroshima about? Of a trauma, that of the first atomic bombing, the atrocity of nuclear fire revealed to humanity. Of an ideal, that of a radical and unapologetic pacifism that constantly reminds the world of the true face of war. A city, last but...

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From Hokkaido to Okinawa, Japan has many attractive places to visit. All of these places have their own unique features with different sceneries and events in each season. In this page, we will introduce the major regions of Japan and its highlights, from north to south. Let’s find out where you would like to visit!

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Japan is one of the foremost destinations for international travel today. Famous for polite efficiency, a richly preserved culture, and foodie favorites like sushi and ramen, international tourism has jumped considerably in the last decade.  

If you would like help planning your trip or have someone handle the planning for you, keep reading to see our list of best English-speaking travel agents in Japan.

English-speaking Travel Agents in Japan

The idea of exploring exotic cultures and countries can easily ignite the imagination, but planning what to do can be a headache without having a guide who understands what you’re looking for, which is why we highly recommend working with one of Japan’s many English-friendly travel agents.

While travel agencies in the West have mostly fallen out of fashion, many Japanese people still use these services as their primary source of travel planning. With so many competing for a slice of the pie, this gives you, the traveler, a chance to save big and enjoy the kind of vacation only a cultural insider can make happen.

Japan Wonder Travel

Japan Wonder Travel offers group and private tours throughout Japan in English as well as virtual tours. They offer not only package tours but also one-day optional tours or local ones.

https://www.japanwondertravel.com/

Arigato Travel

Arigato Travel is Japan’s #1 Culinary and Cultural Tourism company with a passionate mission to help travelers make delicious and unique memories. They offer more than 40 food tours and local experiences in Japan’s top destinations and use the delicious dishes this country has to offer as a gateway to introduce their guests to everything that is great about Japan, because they think the best way to start to understand a culture is through the food. They also offer custom and VIP tours. Make sure to book a tour with them to enjoy Japan AS a local WITH a local. 

https://arigatojapan.co.jp/

JAPANiCAN.com

Website managed by JTB Global Marketing & Travel Inc.(JTBGMT), which is specialized for foreign tourists visiting Japan. This website is only in charge of web reservations and technical support. *JTBGMT is a part of the JTB Group - Japan’s largest and most prestigious travel agency founded in 1912.

https://www.japanican.com/

Magical Trip

Magical Trip is a tour company, who offers some unique experience with a friendly local guide, for example, bar-hopping tours, cultural informative tours, cycling tours, sumo tour..etc. You will learn a lot of new things about Japanese culture, history and Japanese local stuff that you would never know without talking with a local.

https://www.magical-trip.com/

JapanQuest Journeys

JapanQuest Journeys is the leading Japan Destination Management Company/Tour Operator specializing in bespoke ‘tailor-made’ luxury journeys to Japan. JapanQuest Journeys based in Washington, DC, and Tokyo provides personalized end-to-end platinum quality service; meeting the discerning traveler’s exacting needs. We focus on our client’s interests; engaging the finest planners, client service team and expert guides that exude the highest levels of knowledge, resourcefulness, and thoughtful professionalism.

https://japanquestjourneys.com/

Nippon Travel Agency

Nippon Travel Agency established in 1905 providing visitors to Japan with comprehensive guidance and various supports.

http://www.ntainbound.com/

KNT – Kinki Nippon Tourist

Founded in 1955, the Travel Agency provides a wide range of travel services to foreign travelers visiting Japan.

https://www.dmcjapan-knt.com/

Japan Gray Line

The company specializes in managing incentive tours, events, and accepting to support foreign tourists for such conventions and events in Japan.

https://www.jgltraveljapan.jp/

OMAKASE Tour

From day-trips to customized trips, you can consult them with your requests.

https://omakase-tour.com/

An independent organization which is the pioneering operator of walking tours of Japan, and since 1992, have been providing the best planned, the best led and most fulfilling and enjoyable tours available in Japan.

http://www.walkjapan.com/

Other useful links

Below, we have assembled some useful links for additional ideas on places to visit and things to do along with some English-speaking travel agents who can assist in forming your travel plans. We hope you are able to have many great trips to Japan and explore all that the country has to offer.

Official Tourism Guide for Japan Travel

Comprehensive Tourist Guide for Japan provided by the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO)

https://www.japan.travel/en/

Japan Travel

Your official Japan travel guide and Japan's largest travel community.

https://en.japantravel.com/

Japan National Tourism Organization

Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) is managed by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism

https://www.jnto.go.jp/eng/arrange/essential/

Japan-Guide.com

This website delivers comprehensive, up to date information on traveling and living in Japan, first-hand from Japan

http://www.japan-guide.com/

East Japan Railway

The website of East Japan Railway includes introductions to many travel destinations. Mostly in the northern regions of Japan.

http://www.jreast.co.jp/e/index.html

Japanese Guest Houses (Ryokan) Reservation Service

Comprehensive Guide for Japanese traditional Guest Houses (Ryokan) in various destinations throughout Japan.

https://www.japaneseguesthouses.com/

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What Differentiates Us from other Japan Tourist Travel Agencies

All Japan Tours is the only Japan Specialists in the US, with a Japan office and our own coaches, providing fully escorted Japan tour packages, custom Japan vacations, luxury private tours, special-interest tours, business and educational programs to match your requirements.

We started our first travel business in Japan in 2000 with Shinsu Travel Co., Ltd, a licensed reservation service (Tokyo Prefecture Travel Agent License Number 3-5036) for foreign travelers wishing to travel Japan. With the growth and expansion of this in-bound travel business, All Japan Tours was formed to take this cultural experience to the US by organizing fully escorted and in-depth tours of Japan.

In addition to our US staff, we have bilingual Japanese staff at our Tokyo office with the local knowledge to arrange whatever experiences you would like from your trip.

Our Travel Agent Concept for Traveling to Japan

We know experience and expertise matters when you travel. That's why we have professional, knowledgeable staff located in Japan and the US. Our bilingual staff knows the best places in Japan because they themselves are locals.Whether you take one of our fully escorted group tours or custom tours, we offer first class service at a great value. When you book with All Japan Tours, you can rest assured that our experienced staff is with you every step of the way.

Why All Japan Tours?

All Japan Tours offers expertise and experience, but perhaps the best reason to book with us is our genuine passion for Japan and our commitment to sharing that passion others. Through careful planning, we strive to give our clients the best experience possible. We are committed to showing you the many facets of this beautiful and fascinating country.

Peace of mind

When you book with All Japan Tours, you can be sure your money is safe. We are 100% bonded against financial failure through the CST trust account program. This program was created by the State of California to protect consumers who purchase travel related products. Our California Seller of Travel Number (CST #2102781-40) guarantees that we are fully registered and are recognized by the State of California as a seller of travel.

We are also a member of All Nippon Travel Association (ANTA), which congregates all Japanese travel agents. We have been a member since 2001. We are licensed by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport of Japan, in accordance with the provision of the Travel Agency Law. This means you can have peace of mind when you book with us.

How Does Our Japan Travel Agency Process Work?

Contact US Please contact us by phone, fax, or email for tour availability. If you interested in a custom tour, please tell us the destinations, dates and preferred ingredients of your dream trip.

Get your trip planned We will arrange an initial phone consultation or exchange emails with you to better understand your specific interests and vacation preferences.

Book your trip Please click on reservation, read and understand to all important issues described in the Terms & Conditions. Then, submit the Tour Reservation Form on-line or download it to submit by fax.

Making your tour deposit A deposit of US$200 per person must be remitted before the reservation can be processed. Deposit payment applies to land packages only, air travel can be purchased separately. Payment can be made in US Dollars by Visa, Mastercard, American Express or Discover credit cards, paypal, cashier's check, personal check or money order from a US Bank or by bank wire transfer. Contact us for our bank information if paying by wire transfer. Credit card payment If you are paying by credit card, an authorization form is required. Please download credit card authorization form, print out and send it by fax to 909-349-1736 or submit the on-line the credit card authorization form. Check payment If you are paying by check, please make all checks payable to All Japan Tours Paypal If you are paying by paypal, please send paypal payment to [email protected]

Booking confirmation Upon completion of the reservation form, and submission of your deposit, you will receive a booking confirmation, deposit receipt/invoice of the balance. The balance payment is due 2 months before departure. Note : We will send you a reminder email when the balance payment is due.

Final Payment After the final payment is received, we will send you the confirmation of the tour booked including confirmed itinerary & schedules.

Enjoy your unforgetable Japan trip

We do not accept any reservation bookings by telephone. All reservation bookings must be made by completing and submitting either our secure online form or our printable form

Terms & Conditions

Our vehicles.

All Japan Tours philosophy is that it's as much about enjoying the journey, as the destinations. Our commitment to quality and service is apparent in every aspect of our tours, including our fleet of top of the line luxury coaches.

All Japan Tours has the newest coach fleet on the road. This means the latest features, luxurious finishes and high safety standards.

Our on the Road Team

For us, the most important part of making your trip unforgettable is our team on the road. On all our Japan escorted group tours, a team of two travel professionals-a tour guide and a driver-will accompany you. All are committed, passionate and eager to share their local knowledge with you.

They are there to make sure you see and get the best out of what's on offer. They will make sure you're being dropped off right to the door of your accommodation, look after your luggage at the end of each day and be on hand to share tips on where to eat, what to see or anything else you need.

Our Tour Guides

The majority of All Japan Tours guides have more than five years of experience. They are carefully chosen, speak fluent Japanese and English and are among the best in the business.

These well-seasoned experts are on hand to give tailored advice on ideas of things to do with your free time as well as share their in-depth knowledge of Japanese history and culture to give you a unique and insightful trip. They can provide expert local information that you won't find in a guidebook.

Our drivers are second to none and work as a team with the tour guides. Each driver holds a Heavy Passenger Vechicle licence and has been screened for a clear track record and extensive driving experience. They are also regularly trained in defensive driving, updated road rules and destination/itinerary delivery.

Their experience and knowledge of the roads allow them to navigate and handle weather and road conditions well to ensure your journey is as safe and comfortable as possible.

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Travel to Japan

Japan, upgraded

Prepare to fall in love with Japan, a country so wonderfully distinct that travel experiences come into sharper focus – the cities shine brighter & food tastes better. Connect with a travel advisor today for the perfect trip.

Personalized recommendations

Expert advice from people who've actually been there, hotel upgrades, spa credits and more – we got you.

Our Travel Agency Services

We’ll help you find your perfect hotel and get your booking squared away. and did we mention that you’ll get exclusive perks & upgrades at no extra cost count us in., our expert advisors will customize your trip itinerary so your travel experience is as unique as you. whether you need a hotel booking or full itinerary planning, we got you., find an advisor who gets your vibe, and collaborate to bring your dream trip to life. you’ll have unlimited messaging with your advisor to make sure your trip is top-notch., what japan travelers say about our advisors, book with fora.

Tell us more about yourself to get matched with a Fora Advisor and start planning your dream trip today.

Still have questions? We got you.

What are japan’s top destinations & attractions.

Tokyo tops the list of Japan’s best places to visit, offering a mesmerizing blend of rich cultural experiences and contemporary marvels. It’s the perfect destination for those looking to experience a snapshot of everything Japan has to offer.

Likewise, Kyoto is a gorgeous historical center with deep roots in nature. There’s less emphasis on technology and the nightlife is quieter, but the cultural experience is bar none. Meanwhile, Osaka is best summed up by its moniker as “Japan’s kitchen.” And, of course, there are so many unique places to visit in Japan , too.

Start planning your travel to Japan with Fora and a Fora Advisor can outline all your options, and offer intel on hot topics like where to stay in Tokyo or where to stay in Kyoto .

What are the best months to travel to Japan?

The best months to travel to Japan vary as much as the reasons to visit. Our guide to the best months to visit Japan breaks down when to see the cherry blossoms, when the best weather is as well as the least and most crowded months.

Generally, most people aim to travel to Japan in spring or early summer, when the weather is agreeable and the cities are at their liveliest.

When is Japan’s off-season?

Japan doesn’t have a true off-season, but the major cities tend to see less tourism in January, just after New Year’s. But, if you’re visiting Japan’s northern region for snow sports, this may actually be the best time to visit.

A Fora Advisor can always help you make an informed decision on when to travel to Japan.

Where are the best places to stay in Japan? What are Japan’s coolest hotels?

Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto top the best places to stay in Japan — and also where you’ll find many of Japan’s coolest hotels , like Aman Kyoto and the Andaz Tokyo — but there are many, many more destinations worth seeing.

How many days in Japan is enough?

Weeks? Months? On one hand, we’d argue that you could spend years in Japan without experiencing all of the country’s highlights. Instead, plan your trip according to the time you’re willing to spend abroad. Better yet, connect with a Fora Advisor who can help you build an itinerary around your time and budget constraints.

On the other hand, if you’re content to only visit a single city like Tokyo or Kyoto during your trip, a week may do.

Can you travel to Japan without knowing Japanese? Is English widely spoken in Japan?

English is not widely spoken here, even in the major cities, but you also don’t need to speak Japanese to have a great time while traveling in Japan. Knowing basic phrases can certainly help, but most Japanese locals are happy to help polite travelers, regardless. Still, Google Translate will be an invaluable tool. 

Your Fora Advisor can also give you more tips for getting around Japan.

Is it safe to travel to Japan?

Undoubtedly. Japan is one of the safest countries to travel to in the world, with a relatively low crime rate, even in massive cities like Tokyo. 

You should still exercise caution whenever traveling somewhere unfamiliar.

What’s the best way to travel around Japan? Can I use Uber in Japan?

Our guide to your first time in Japan offers in-depth answers, but in almost any scenario, Japan’s unmatched transportation system can take you anywhere you want to go, especially in urban areas.

All of Japan’s cities are connected by high-speed monorails, with additional intracity monorails and taxi services. 

Uber, however, has only recently debuted in Japan, so it’s touch and go in terms of efficiency.

What are the entry and exit requirements for Japan?

You always need a passport to enter Japan, but most travelers, including those from the US, do not need a visa to enter Japan if they’re staying for 90 days or less.

A Fora Advisor can offer additional details while planning your travel to Japan.

Does Japan have COVID-19 restrictions?

Japan’s COVID-19 restrictions vary by point of origin and are subject to change at any time. Official government websites will have more information, or you can always ask your Fora Advisor.

How much does the average trip to Japan cost?

Many factors influence the cost of travel to Japan, but generally, Americans can expect to spend around $2,500 per person, per week. However, that figure can vary widely depending on your choice of accommodations, specific destinations and the time of year you visit.

A week-long couple’s vacation to Tokyo with luxury accommodations and a wide variety of experiences will tally between $7,000-$10,000 (including airfare), for example.

Do you need cash in Japan?

It’s wise to carry cash whenever traveling to Japan, at least for smaller expenses like transportation or local restaurants and markets. Western-style hotels and businesses in major metropolitan areas like Shinjuku or Shibuya generally accept card payments, though.

Can Fora build a Japan travel itinerary?

Absolutely! Planning a trip to Japan with Fora is a blast for that very reason. Your advisor can build your Japan travel itinerary according to your preferences, with insider tips and recommendations.

Why should I book my travel to Japan with Fora? What’s the benefit of booking with a Japan travel planner?

From free perks at the coolest hotels in Tokyo to figuring out where to stay in Osaka , planning travel to Japan with Fora is like planning with a friend on the inside: we’ll unlock all sorts of cool hotel perks at no extra cost, plus provide expert travel recommendations, tips and support any time you’re in need.

When it comes to travel, Fora has your back.

Planning a Private Trip to Japan with a Travel Agency

When considering a trip to Japan, especially for the first time, it is quite natural to think entrusting a specialized travel agency with your preparations. Several travel agencies specialized in Japan exist and can help prospective travelers throughout the world.

However, when all necessary information is already available for free on the Internet  📶 , including Kanpai, what are the benefits to ask tourism industry professionals?

What are the Advantages of a Professional Service?

The first answer popping up is saving on the preparation time . Japan is a rich destination for historical, artistic and cultural standpoints. While preparing an itinerary alone, the abundance of possibilities – every destination is a "must-see" – can quickly become stressful. The key is to choose wisely and give up the idea of seeing everything, without frustration. That is when calling in an expert of the destination is a good solution. The travel specialist’s attention, knowledge and appropriate propositions will help narrow down an already interesting checklist that nonetheless needs a few tweaks.

They help you come to a decision thanks to their in-depth knowledge of transportation and / or accommodation booking. This type of service is suitable for both busy and floundering prospective travelers, who don’t want to be bothered by materialistic issues when in Japan. The travel agent will work beforehand to optimize the time spent in transportation, find a nice hotel  🏨 in a good location and other items only an expert can know. If this accurate preparation is well done, the travel will unfold smoothly, without the traveler noticing the efforts put in its organization. The safe and on-time transportation system combined with the famous flawless Japanese service usually make traveling in Japan easy. But this apparent flawlessness is supported by codes and processes difficult to understand when one doesn’t know the country or the language.

In addition to practical skills of coordinating a private itinerary or all-inclusive organized trips, some specialized travel agencies offer another layer of immersion in Japan and provide a range of original experiences, most of the time led by seasoned tour guides . The additional human factor becomes an asset to a trip organized by a professional. A long-awaited trip can really benefit from the encounter with a passionate individual, the understanding of customs  🛂 and explanations on the locals’ daily life. Japan is still a faraway destination, for which one doesn’t want to say when coming back home: "Too bad, we will plan better next time."

The trip can be the classical Tokyo / Kyoto journey, a travel based on a specific theme or the in-depth exploration of a particular area, the best travel agents can bring out the little something that makes each trip unique. They know how to create a schedule with enough flexibility to allow for potential unexpected events. Lastly, in case of any problem, as recently showed by the Coronavirus   🦠 crisis, the travel agent will take care of all bothersome details for you (such as modifications, postponing or cancelling).

How to Select the Right Tour Service Provider?

With the growing popularity of travel in Japan over the last years, the destination naturally attracted many travel agents who added it to their service offer, even though they know nothing about the country. Therefore, just finding the right service provider from a list can be a head-scratcher! Especially if it includes all travel agencies, without distinction of those that don’t even offer travel to Japan. How, then, against such background, identifying the appropriate mediator who will be able to provide a quality service at the appropriate price?

Multi-destinations Tour Operators

Their reputation is earned thanks to loyal customers who travel the world and are willing to discover a different country with each trip. They usually provide all-inclusive organized tours, mainly targeting first-time travelers. Therefore, their itineraries don’t offer much originality as tours are designed to roughly cover Tokyo, Kyoto and a few major touristic hubs such as Hakone , Miyajima , Koya-san or the Japanese Alps.

Visits are crammed in a tight tour schedule over 1 to 2 weeks (seldom 3) and tourists may feel they couldn’t enjoy thoroughly the places, and their pictures just become reminders of where they went. The budget advertised for these tours is quite high compared to the real cost of the travel; customers indeed pay the price of peace of mind , to travel without worry, but also without really choosing the details and with no expertise of the archipelago.

Moreover, multi-destinations tour operators subcontract tour services to specialist agencies, which raises the price for the client.

Travel Intermediaries

Generalist travel agents’ primary role is to sell tour operators’ packages . Their characteristic is to easily reach customers thanks to brick and mortar stores where they can propose the latest offers of travel in Japan. They are often found in malls or shopping centers.

Their greatest drawback however is the additional cost on the global price, as they are payed by commission . They add no value whatsoever to the content of the itinerary, but they facilitate contacts between tour operators and customers.

Japan-Specialist Travel Agencies

Far fewer than the other kind of agents, only a handful of them exist in each country. Specialist travel agencies have a more refined approach and are more knowledgeable, in relation to their experience and field-knowledge. These experts are now developing their own travel packages and services and directly negotiate with tourism-industry related companies in Japan. Primarily seller and consultant, their activity evolved to the creation of personalized travels . Their service is a real additional value for their customers. The ideal solution being to call in officially registered companies partnering with their own destination management companies in Japan.

Our Recommendation: Keikaku

Kanpai recommends Keikaku , a travel agency specializing in Japan. Keikaku has built its reputation thanks to its team of certified bilingual tour guides, recognition as an authorized sales agent for Japan Railways and Pocket Wi-Fi rental. They also create tailor-made travels:

• Flight  ✈️ tickets booking, by direct flight (any class) or with a stopover
• Accommodation booking: hotels / ryokan traditional inns / night at a temple (from dormitory to luxury stay)
• Navigation of transportation in Japan : train passes (such as JR Pass ), car rental, chauffeured or not
• Creation of a custom private itinerary with or without a Japanese-English bilingual and certified professional tour guide
• Booking of specific activities on demand : tea ceremony, Geisha performance, discovery of local craft, sake degustation, etc.

Keikaku is both a tour operator and the owner of a destination management company in Japan, named Keikaku Japan. They work with their own team and without intermediaries, which lowers the costs for the customers. Registered in Japan, Keikaku was therefore one of the happy few to be allowed to sponsor tourists during the modest reopening of Japan from June 10 to October 11, 2022.

Keikaku's team is made of passionate individuals, working in a human-sized agency and focusing on providing a quality service , namely coming up with ideas for itineraries, activities, as well as when the best period to travel in Japan, and accommodate the clients’ expectations and pace.

Travelers with a big budget and who wish to live a premium or high-end experience can receive a customized quote and have their highest expectations fulfilled:

Discover Keikaku Japan’s Private Travels

Either by internet or by phone, you can easily contact with a professional who takes the time to understand your request and give you the appropriate response.

So, let’s get started!

• Flights and Airports
• Accommodation
• Transportation
• Internet & Phones
• Budget and money
• Japanese Food
• Visit with Kids
• Seasons: spring / summer / autumn / winter
• Weather forecast
• Time in Japan
• Holidays & Festivals
• Natural Disasters
• Customs and Duties
• Works and Closures
• September 21 -- Autumn starts in Japan
• September 23 -- Autumn Equinox (Shunbun no Hi - holiday)
• From October 9 to 10 -- Hachiman Matsuri (the Autumn Takayama Festival)
• October 22 -- Jidai Matsuri Festival in Kyoto
• October 29 -- Isao Takahata's birthday (born in 1935)
• October 31 -- Halloween in Japan
• Tokyo : Shinjuku , Shibuya , Harajuku , Asakusa , Akihabara , Odaiba , Ikebukuro , Ueno , Roppongi , Chiyoda , Ryogoku ...
• Around Tokyo: Kamakura , Nikko , Hakone , Mount Fuji , Mount Takao , Yokohama ...
• Kansai: Kyoto , Nara , Osaka , Mount Koya , Himeji , Kobe , Kinosaki , Kumano Kodo , Ise ...
• Japanese Alps: Kanazawa , Matsumoto , Takayama , Shirakawa-go , Nakasendo ...
• West: Hiroshima , Miyajima , Shikoku , Onomichi , Naoshima , Izumo , Kurashiki , Matsue ...
• South: Kyushu , Okinawa , Yakushima ...
• North: Hokkaido , Tohoku ...

• Temples and Shrines
• Gardens and Parks
• Hiking and Trekking
• Observation Decks
• Public Baths (Onsen and Sento)
• Festivals (Matsuri)
• Amusement Parks
• Visit on a Budget / Luxury

Keikaku is a travel agency specialist of Japan and providing different kind of services:

• Japan Rail Pass
• English speaking Guides
• Pocket Wi-fi
• Japan Nightlife
• Working in Japan
• Religion and Spirituality
• Arts and History
• Movies / Animated Movies
• Japanese Music
• Studio Ghibli
• Photos / Videos
• Weird Japan
• Translations
• Kana & Kanji
• Japanese Swear Words
• Honorific Suffixes (san, kun, chan...)
• Introducing yourself
• Thank you / Apologize
• Count / Say Your Age
• Say the Date / Tell the Time
• Happy birthday
• Enjoy Your Meal
• Writing your name

Kanas are the much-needed basic characters of written Japanese language. Memorize them at a fast pace with our method.

Ask any kind of question and share your knowledge about Japan in Kanpai’s community space, our Q&A section Kotaete.

Isshoni means "together" in Japanese: share your trip details (dates, places you would like to visit) and find companions to travel in Japan.

Create your Kanpai account to manage your profile and view your participation history (questions, answers).

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Japan Reviews & Ratings

Extremely well organised, great mixture between organised.

Extremely well organised, great mixture between organised and free time. Great travelling by train

The format of the trip enabled two

The format of the trip enabled two significant factors to coincide to make the entire experience overwhelmingly positive. 1. Our trip guide - Yuri Awanohara, made th...

Great introduction to the country. Variety of

Great introduction to the country. Variety of activities and all well planned by guide Yuri

well organised we appreciated not going to the

well organised we appreciated not going to the expensive, flashy and touristy restaurants, which gave us a good varied eating experience good mix of organised and ...

Coastal cycling in Japan

Wow what an amazing trip ! Cycling in Japan is a truly fantastic and interesting cycling trip. There are several - The friendliness and courtesy of the Japanese peo...

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