Japan itineraries

Our ‘Highlights of Japan’ is a two week trip that ticks off many of the highlights, with ample time in Tokyo, Kyoto and Hiroshima, as well as some less well known gems. If time (or budget) does not allow for a longer trip, we have combined our top picks in our shorter ‘Japan in 9 days’ tour, which includes Tokyo and Kyoto, whilst also spending time in the countryside in Hakone. As ever, we can tailor the trip to your own specific interests, suggesting alternatives places to visit depending on your interests.

How do tours in Japan work?

For most travellers, our tours in Japan operate on a self-guided basis. However, we will provide you with every assistance needed to ensure that you can enjoy a hassle-free holiday.

Prior to your tour we will send you an extremely detailed pack of trip notes. These will have full details on how to get around and suggestions on places to visit. Comprehensive guidance will be included on how to navigate the trains and buses that you will use during the course of your trip, and how to get to each hotel and attraction. We will take care of all the logistics and will tell you which train tickets to book (and how to do this) and the best route to follow.

Once you arrive in Japan, you will be met at the airport and will have a shuttle or private transfer to your first hotel. This means that you don’t have to navigate the public transport system after a long flight!

Then on your first day, usually in Tokyo, we will always include a guide. They will help you get orientated and show you how to use the subway. They will also show you how to recharge your IC Card (the Japanese version of an Oyster card) and will help you exchange your rail pass and book seats on train journeys.

This is the perfect introduction to travelling in Japan and after that day you’ll feel much more confident and will be raring to go! We also typically include a guide in Kyoto for a day, plus some other guided excursions such as bike rides or cookery classes. Travel in this way is not only very straightforward but is hugely safe and helps to keep the costs manageable. People are unfailingly helpful, kind and respectful and you will find it is a lot of fun! However, if you would prefer to be guided and escorted throughout, this can also be arranged.

All of our Japan itineraries are bespoke which means that we can tailor-make them for your family, taking into account the ages of your children, your interests, your budget and so on. Our holidays are 100% financially protected with the Travel Trust Association, number Q0176, if you book with us. We also have ATOL certification, number T7608, provided by the Civil Aviation Authority.