18 Day Treasures of Japan Small Group Tour

• Small, intimate group experience – no more than 20 people
• 16 nights in central 3-star accommodation, plus 1 night in a traditional onsen hotel
• Breakfast daily and 1 dinner
• All coach and rail transportation, including the iconic Japanese bullet train
• Fully escorted by English-speaking guides
• Sightseeing including entry fees as per itinerary

• Sapporo - Historical Village of Hokkaido
• Sapporo - Sapporo Beer Museum
• Sapporo -  Susukino District
• Shiraoi - Upopoy Ainu Museum and Park
• Hakodate - Goryokaku Tower
• Hakodate - Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse
• Hakodate - Motomachi Neighbourhood
• Hakodate -  Mt Hakodate Ropeway
• Aomori - Nebuta Museum WA RASSE
• Aomori  - Aomori Museum of Art
• Aomori  - Sannai Maruyama Site
• Appi Kogen - Towada Art Cente
• Appi Kogen - Japanese Cooking Experience
• Matsushima - Matsushima Bay cruise
• Matsushima  - Zuiganji Temple
• Aizu Wakamatsu - Ouchijuku
• Aizu Wakamatsu - Suehiro Sake Brewery
• Aizu Wakamatsu - Tsuruga Castle
• Kanazawa - Kenrokuen Garden
• Kanazawa - Samurai Residence
• Kanazawa - Higashi Chaya District
• Osaka - Dotonbori Area
• Hiroshima - Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
• Miyajima - Itsukushima Shrine
• Himeji - Himeji Castle
• Kyoto - Arashiyama
• Kyoto - Tenryuji Temple
• Kyoto - Nijo Castl
• Kyoto - Ryoanji Temple
• Kyoto - Nishiki Market
• Tokyo - Tokyo Half Day tour

Pre/post accommodation 
Not available  

Upgrades 
Not available  

Airport Transfers 
Some of our packages will include airport transfers in either one or both directions when arriving or departing from your destination. To know if transfers are included please view the ‘inclusions’ section of your selected package. If airport transfers are stated, transfers will be included as advised.

If transfers are not included, we also offer the option to book your airport transfers using our online portal. Access to this portal is available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed. Transfers are readily available and do not need to be booked until your final hotel list has been confirmed. Once you have made a transfer booking, please refer to your confirmation email for all transfer details including a local contact number for the transfer company.

If you book pre and/or post-tour accommodation on your arrangement, and the tour includes transfers, note that these will be forfeited. The transfers are only provided in line with the tour dates and pre and/or post-tour accommodation purchased through Inspiring Vacations when available.

Bedding Configuration
Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, but we can not guarantee your request will be available at all properties.

Single travellers
When booking this tour, solo travellers will be presented with two options

1 - Single Supplement
By paying an additional ₹129,450.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price, you guarantee the privacy of your room throughout the entire tour.

Please note when choosing Single Supplement for this tour, your room will generally consist of a double or semi-double bed. Occasionally there may be a hotel that will provide a single bedded room for single travellers. 

2- Shared Room with a known friend
If travelling together with a friend, you can opt to share your room with them and avoid paying a single supplement. 

You and your friend can create a unique booking each. Creating a unique booking, gives each of you the flexibility of making different travel arrangements (such as adding extra accommodation, flights, etc), making separate payments and having individual access to our Traveller Hub

During the purchase path, you will need to provide your friend’s booking ID (if known) or at a minimum, your friend’s full name.

Triple Share
Not available

Payment Information
Secure your trip with a ₹5,999.00 deposit per person.

Starting Point

Your starting hotel may differ from the original itinerary.  Please refer to your final documentation which will be provided approximately 14-30 days before departure for your confirmed hotel list. If you need to book pre-tour accommodation independently, we suggest you do this only once you have received your final hotel list for your tour. If you would like to book something sooner, we recommend that you book using a flexible rate that can be canceled through your chosen third-party provider without penalty. 

Travelers will arrive at various times throughout the day depending on the flights booked. If arriving before standard check-in time, which is generally 3 pm, you are welcome to leave your luggage at hotel reception and explore your surroundings until check-in becomes available as there are no scheduled activities on day 1 of the itinerary.  The hotel may grant early check-in, however this is strictly subject to availability and at the hotel’s discretion. 

Note: if you need to apply for a tourist visa before departure, we recommend using the details of the suggested hotel on the tour itinerary if you wish to fulfill this before the release of your final tour documentation. Please refer to our visa section for more information on whether or not a visa is required for your destination.

Arrival Details

Airport transfers are not included as part of your package. However, we trust that your journey from the airport to the hotel will be comfortable and hassle-free.

Airport Transfers

There are several ways to travel between Tokyo Haneda and Narita airports and our hotels, which can be overwhelming. We have created helpful guides below to assist you in Airport transfers.

Tokyo Haneda Airport Transfers Guide

Tokyo Narita Airport Transfers Guide

Optional Airport Transfers - Transfer Portal

Depending on the package purchased, you may have the option to add airport transfers to your booking and you can do so through your Traveller Hub account. We partner with an online marketplace where travellers can compare and select the transfer of their choice.

Inspiring Vacations acts as an agent on behalf of our transfer service partner and any service is delivered by the provider. Inspiring Vacations cannot be held liable for any loss resulting from the transfer service provided. It is the customer's responsibility to ensure any transfer booked meets the requirements of any other travel arrangements. Likewise, your tour leader or any of our on-ground representatives cannot be held responsible for the service of your transfer nor are they in a position to assist with amending your reservation. Any transfer booking is separate from any other booking with Inspiring Vacations, regardless of whether purchased with regards to the same travel journey.

When you make your transfer service booking, you will receive a confirmation email and this will include your meeting instructions, as well as direct contact details. Please ensure you print and bring this with you as you will need to ensure you can make direct contact with your transfer service provider.

Welcome Meeting Instructions

You are welcome to arrive at any time on Day 1 of your tour and the day is at your leisure. Upon checking in at the hotel, you will receive a letter containing meeting instructions for the following morning. If you do not automatically receive these details, please ask for them. Generally, you must meet at the lobby the following morning (on the day that sightseeing commences) as early as 0815 am local time. Please ensure that you are on time.

In Case of Emergency

Although we strive to deliver exceptional holiday experiences, unforeseen circumstances can occasionally arise during travel. If any issues arise during your trip, it's essential to promptly communicate them to your tour leader or local representative. This ensures they can take immediate action to address the problem and mitigate any negative impact on the remainder of your journey.

We understand that there may be instances where your tour leader or local representative is unable to resolve a situation to your satisfaction. In such cases, we encourage you to request that the tour leader or local representative escalate the matter to their direct manager for further assistance.

You also have the option to share details in your online feedback after the tour. However, please keep in mind that it's challenging for us to offer practical assistance once the trip is completed. Therefore, notifying us while still traveling allows us the chance to address the issue in real time and provide a timely resolution.

For general contact details please visit the Contact Us page on our website.

When your final tour documentation is released, this will include an emergency contact for our local travel partner while you are on tour. If this is not included in your documentation, you will receive this on arrival during your welcome meeting.

Finishing Point

Your finishing hotel may differ from the original itinerary. Please refer to your final documentation which will be provided approximately 14-30 days before departure for your confirmed hotel list. If you need to book additional post-tour accommodation, please do so once you have the final hotel list. We recommend booking a flexible rate that can be changed or canceled without penalty should there be any unforeseen changes to your booking.

Travelers will depart at various times throughout the day depending on the flights booked. Check-out time is generally from 10 am-12 pm. You are welcome to leave your luggage at the hotel reception and spend your final moments of free time exploring the area or please speak with hotel staff if you would like to extend your check-out time. This service is subject to availability and will likely come at an additional cost payable directly.

Departure Details

Airport transfers are not included as part of your package. However, we trust that your journey from the hotel to the airport will be comfortable and hassle-free.

As an added service, we do offer airport transfers at an additional cost which can be booked via your Traveler Hub.  We recommend you wait until you receive your final documentation to book transfers as your start and end hotels will only be confirmed at this point. Please note that if you are choosing to book an independent airport transfer service, your Tour Leader cannot be held responsible for any unforeseen circumstances that may arise, nor can they resolve any concerns that you may have with your transfer service.

Alternatively, Japan’s public transport system is very efficient and reliable. To make your way to the airport from the hotel, there are various connections by express train or limousine bus. Alternatively, Japan’s public transport system is very efficient and reliable. The hotel concierge can provide helpful advice, too.

Tour Suitability

• Hotel rooms in Japan, especially in Tokyo, can be smaller than you may be used to (typically 15–25 sqm). While compact, they are clean, comfortable, and well-designed. Every effort will be made to accommodate double room requests. However, during busy periods, there may be occasions when we are unable to offer a double room, so a twin room will be provided.
• This is a fast-paced tour that covers a vast range of incredible sights and cities across Japan. While the itinerary is packed with sightseeing, it’s thoughtfully designed to maximise your experience.
  This journey spans a vast and varied landscape, with most travel conducted by train and private coach. This means there will be some long travel days, but it's the perfect opportunity to sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic views from your window. Please review the itinerary for estimated travel times.
• Your whole itinerary is conducted by rail. You will receive individual rail tickets (not a JR pass) for each scheduled journey as this is the most cost-effective travel option. These will be provided to you by your tour leader. Please do not throw these tickets out and keep them somewhere safe at all times. Your tour leader will also provide the rail schedule for you, as the timings are subject to change.
• Japan is best explored on foot and travellers will be required to do lots of walking, so be sure to pack comfortable shoes.
• In Japan, showers are often located over a bathtub, and bathrooms usually have a raised step at the entrance. Travellers with limited mobility should take this into account, as both features can present accessibility challenges.

Cherry Blossom Season

Cherry blossom season is one of the most beautiful times to visit Japan, with stunning pink blooms transforming parks, temples, and city streets. However, it is also the busiest travel period of the year. Popular sightseeing spots attract large crowds, meaning longer wait times at attractions, restaurants, and transport hubs. Roads and bus parks experience heavier congestion, which can lead to slower travel times. Hotels and trains are in high demand, and the overall atmosphere is lively and bustling. While the charm of cherry blossoms is truly special, it’s important to set expectations for a busier and more energetic travel experience.

Personal Medication

If you regularly use certain forms of medication, bear in mind that Japanese customs can be very strict regarding the importation of some relatively common drugs, including any opioids, psychotropics, tranquilizers, and certain antihistamines. They can also be strict regarding medical equipment like syringes. If you have any doubts, please refer to the official guidelines by Japan’s Ministry of Health.   

Visas & Entry Requirements

Many countries require a visa and obtaining the correct visa for your tour and any countries you may transit through is your responsibility. We recommend you check your visa requirements as soon as you have booked your tour. This will ensure you have time to prepare your documents and for your visa application to be processed. You can check the visa entry requirements for your nationality via our page here:

https://inspiringvacations-8357211.hs-sites.com/visa-information 

You’ll need a valid passport to travel internationally and most countries require your passport to have a minimum of 6 months validity, so remember to check the expiry date.

We need your passport information to get everything ready for your tour so the information on your booking must match your passport exactly. Please take care to provide the correct details. We recommend carrying a copy of the photo page of your passport while travelling and leaving a copy at home with family or friends.

Pace

This tour category is Lively:
Our Lively tours are faster paced typically including full sightseeing days, some early starts, longer driving days and a number of 1 night hotel stays - perfect for those eager to maximize each moment and cover more ground.

Activity and Mobility

This tour is categorized as: 3 out of 5 - Balanced

Our Balanced tours involve a moderate level of physical activity and are designed to suit the majority of travelers. Be prepared for walking on varied surfaces, which may include cobblestones, gravel paths, and noticeable inclines common in historic towns and natural areas. You must be confident on your feet and capable of navigating multiple flights of stairs and uneven ground without assistance to fully participate.

Activity snapshot

• Activity: Mostly easy walking, 1–2.5 hours at a time, at a relaxed pace with regular stops.
• Typical walking distances: 2–4 km on touring days.
• Touring style: Primarily private coach travel with short sightseeing walks.

Mobility requirements

• Mobility: Suits travelers confident with moderate stop-start walking, standing for periods, and managing stairs.
• Luggage: When travelling, passengers will need to carry this small bag from each hotel to the departure train station and onto the train. Upon arrival at your next destination, you will take your bag from the arriving train station to the destination hotel. Passengers must carry/manage their own bags during hotel check-ins/outs.
• Hotel bathrooms: Often have a step up into the bathroom; showers typically positioned over bathtubs.
• Accessibility: Not all sites or stations have escalators/lifts; stairs are common at temples and shrines

Walking surfaces

• Predominantly paved city streets and footpaths.
• Cobblestones and stone steps at heritage sites.
• Dirt or gravel roads in some rural areas.
• Occasional uphill walks and uneven terrain.

Terrain & environment

• Cities: Mostly flat and paved, with some busy pedestrian areas.
• Cultural/nature sites: Shrines, temples, gardens, and castle grounds may involve steps, slopes, and mixed surfaces.

Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your tour.

Group Size

• Minimum: 2 passengers
• Maximum: 20 passengers

Escorted Style

This tour is fully escorted by a dedicated tour leader who will accompany you throughout the tour. If your trip includes multiple countries, you will be met by a new tour leader in each country and any internal flights included will be unescorted.

Tour Type

Our expertly crafted Small Group Tours take you to iconic landmarks and hidden treasures, ensuring a rich blend of must-see sights. Unwind in premium accommodations after each day filled with sightseeing alongside your dedicated tour leader, leaving you free to explore at your own pace during designated free time. Benefit from smaller group sizes, creating a truly unforgettable travel experience.

Rail Tickets

Your whole itinerary is conducted by rail. You will receive individual rail tickets (not a JR pass) for each scheduled journey as this is the most cost-effective travel option. These will be provided to you by your tour leader. Please do not throw these tickets out and keep them somewhere safe at all times. Your tour leader will also provide the rail schedule for you, as the timings are subject to change. 

Transportation & Luggage Delivery

The main form of transportation used on this tour is the Japanese rail network.

Due to limited luggage space on the Japan rail network, it is necessary to transfer your large pieces of luggage via a luggage transfer operator.

We use one of Japan's largest door-to-door delivery service companies. Due to the large distances travelled, they will need one or two nights to deliver your luggage. Unfortunately, no same-day delivery is possible.

Since you will not have access to your main luggage, you should bring a daypack, rucksack or small suitcase for the days that you do not have your larger bags. A backpack is preferable, however, if you have any concerns or mobility issues you can use a small roller suitcase. This bag needs to be light enough for you to carry it yourself. It also needs to be small enough so it can be stored on the train, either overhead or in front of your knees, similar to an airline cabin bag.

When travelling, you will need to carry this small bag from each hotel to the departure train station and onto the train. Upon arrival at your next destination, you will take your bag from the arriving train station to the destination hotel.

Japanese hotels provide many amenities in the rooms, including a nightgown, slippers, toothbrushes, shampoo, etc. We stay at hotels near the train stations so that the walking distance is short (approx 500 meters), and also so the group can drop off their smaller bags upon arrival before starting any touring for the day. If hotel drop-off is not an option, for those who wish to store their bags at the train station, lockers are available for a small fee.

Please limit your luggage to one large piece of main luggage per person. Each passenger is entitled to one piece of luggage shipped throughout the journey. Shipping of an additional piece of luggage may be accommodated but not guaranteed and will be at the cost of the passenger paid directly.

On this tour, we have the following deliveries scheduled:

• Sapporo to Aomori (two nights without main luggage)
• Osaka to Hiroshima (two nights without main luggage)

Exclusions

• International Flights
• Airport transfers
• Visas
• Travel insurance (compulsory)
• Tipping
• Optional Activities
• Personal expenses
• Anything not mentioned in the itinerary

Getting Around

On this tour you’ll travel with your tour leader and fellow passengers by both private coach and train, making the most of Japan’s excellent transport system. At times, a dedicated coach will take you directly between destinations, with comfort stops along the way where you can stretch your legs, use the facilities, and buy refreshments.

You’ll also experience Japan’s world-famous rail network, including rides on the Shinkansen (bullet train). These sleek trains can reach speeds of up to 320 km/h, turning what would otherwise be a long journey into a comfortable and efficient trip. Travelling by train allows you to sit back and enjoy the scenery, and your tour leader will guide you through stations and platforms to make the process simple and stress-free. Luggage forwarding is often arranged in advance so you can travel light on train days.

Japanese trains are known for their punctuality, cleanliness, and comfort, with clear signage in both Japanese and English. Stations are well-organised, with lifts and escalators to assist with luggage, and plenty of food outlets for picking up a quick bento box or snack before boarding. Travelling by train is a quintessential part of the Japanese experience and adds an authentic, memorable element to your journey.

Hotel Ratings

To give you the most accurate picture possible, we don't just rely on a single source for hotel ratings. We go beyond by researching various trusted travel websites like Tripadvisor and Booking.com. This allows us to analyze a wider range of genuine customer reviews and experiences, giving you a well-rounded understanding of the hotel's typical star rating.

This means you can book with confidence, knowing the hotel has a strong track record of satisfied guests.

Accommodation Details

In Japan, hotels commonly used for group touring are known as Business hotels. These hotels offer affordable accommodation and although the rooms are typically small, averaging between 15m2 to 20m2, they are clean, well-maintained, and equipped with a private bathroom featuring a toilet, sink, and shower. Some rooms may have a shower over a small bath. Overall, a comfortable place to rest and recharge before a full day of sightseeing.

These hotels generally provide essential amenities like soap, shampoo, toothbrushes, toothpaste, razors, cotton buds, shower caps, and towels. Additionally, most rooms are furnished with a television, air conditioner, hairdryer, empty refrigerator, and a water boiler with complimentary green tea bags. However, it's important to note that not all hotels may offer these amenities, so we recommend traveling with any essentials and creature comforts you deem necessary. If there are any concerns, please speak to the hotel staff.

On every two or three floors of these hotels, you may find a common room with vending machines, and some may have coin-operated washing machines and dryers. There might also be a clothing iron available, but if not, you can request one from the hotel reception, and if available, it will usually be brought directly to your room. It's worth noting that not all hotels provide laundry facilities. Once you receive your documentation (14-30 days before departure), to best prepare yourself, read up on the facilities available at each hotel. If you require a specific need while on tour, such as laundry facilities or money exchange service, speak to the Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader who will be able to assist you. The hotels used are conveniently located near convenience stores and transportation options, making it easy to purchase any forgotten essentials, snacks, or on-the-go lunch options.

Generally, these Business hotels offer a buffet-style breakfast with a mix of Japanese and Western food choices. Since you'll be traveling in a foreign country, we encourage you to approach all your dining experiences with an open mind and a sense of adventure, as Western-style dining options may not always be readily available. If you have any specific dietary requirements, please consult your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader to check if your needs can be accommodated. Additionally, we suggest bringing along some of your favorite snacks from home in case the local cuisine may not align with your preferences.

Travel Tip: twin rooms are usually slightly bigger than double rooms in Japan, so if you want a little more space, we suggest requesting a twin room throughout but keep in mind these are subject to availability. We strongly recommend only traveling with one piece of luggage per person due to room sizes and you will be responsible for handling your luggage at all times.

Luggage Requirements

Luggage Limit: Due to limited space in the bus luggage compartments, it is crucial that each person limits their luggage to one piece weighing a maximum of 20kg. Additionally, you are allowed a carry-on pack that should easily fit under the seat or in small overhead compartments.

By following these guidelines and packing light, you will ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience during the tour.

Since your main luggage will be sent ahead by courier for the train journey, please review the ‘Transportation and Luggage Delivery’ section for the requirements of your smaller pack.

Packing Essentials

What you need to pack for your tour will vary according to the trip style you have chosen, the countries you are visiting, and when you are traveling. We recommend you pack as lightly as possible, ensuring that you can carry and lift your luggage, and walk with it for short distances or up or down a flight of stairs.

A lockable suitcase with wheels is ideal for this trip. It is recommended that you keep your main luggage weight around 15kg and no more than 20kg. A small or medium-sized backpack (45-50 liters) is another good option. You'll also need a day pack/bag to carry water, a camera, a jacket, and your essentials while touring during the day.

In Japan, you will need to manage your luggage for the most part. Train stations are quite complex and usually require a lot of stair climbing, especially when doing a quick transfer from train to train. Elevators aren't always available and cannot accommodate many people at a time, so if you are choosing to bring a suitcase, please ensure you can lift and carry it up and down stairs by yourself without difficulty. A backpack is often preferred by travellers for this reason, but the decision is yours. Our ryokans allow suitcases but you'll need to carry them, not wheel them onto the tatami floor in your room.

Climate

Japan has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons.

• Spring (March–May): Mild and pleasant, with daytime temperatures around 15–22 °C. Cherry blossoms bloom from late March to early April, but light rain showers are common.
• Summer (June–August): Hot and humid, with highs often reaching 30–34 °C. The rainy season falls in June and early July, followed by hotter, sunnier days in late July and August.
• Autumn (September–November): Warm in September, then comfortably cool by October and November. Clear skies and daytime highs of 18–24 °C make this one of the best times to visit, with brilliant autumn colours.
• Winter (December–February): Cool but mostly dry, with highs of 8–12 °C. Snow is rare in the cities, though mornings and evenings can feel quite cold.

Cherry Blossom Viewing

Some of our selected Japan itineraries will have departures that fall over the popular Cherry Blossom season, which changes year to year depending on the forecast. The magic of cherry blossoms in Japan is undeniable, however, like all things in nature, the exact bloom times can vary depending on weather conditions.

While we can't control the whims of Mother Nature, we can embrace the spirit of Hanami (flower viewing). This philosophy celebrates the fleeting beauty of the blossoms, reminding us to cherish the present moment.

Therefore, depending on your departure date, some locations on our itinerary might not be at full bloom. The beauty of Japan extends far beyond the blossoms. We may encounter early blooms in some areas or visit breathtaking landscapes elsewhere. Let's embrace the surprise and enjoy the journey together!

Currency and ATMs

The currency used in Japan is the Yen. Most chains and hotels will accept cards. Convenience stores are the best places to withdraw cash as almost every store is fitted with an ATM that accepts foreign cards. There are over 20,000 7-Eleven stores across the country, in addition to chains like Lawsons and Family Mart.

Food and Allergies

While travelling with Inspiring Vacations you'll enjoy iconic sightseeing, as well as experience the vast array of culinary offerings in Japan. While many meals will be eaten together with your group, not all meals are included in your tour which gives you maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. If you have dietary requirements and/or food allergies, please let our Customer Support Team know before departure. Your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader or local representative will also be able to give suggestions on which restaurants to try during your trip.

The Japanese daily diet contains gluten (i.e. in flavorings such as soy sauce) and seafood (dashi, or fish stock, is the basis of most dishes, even vegetables), so we highly recommend that vegetarians, vegans and coeliacs do their research about the options that might be available to them before departure. While our leaders will assist you where they can, there may be some included meals that are decided in advance and therefore cannot be altered or modified for different diets (such as those included meals at Ryokans). For those with a particular food allergy, your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader will endeavor to advise the main ingredients in the dishes consumed. It is, however, still your responsibility to ensure that you do not ingest any problematic ingredients.

Local Customs

It's always a good idea to learn something about local customs before you travel, and visiting Japan is no exception. Your leader will be on hand to guide you through cultural differences during your trip.

Please note, decorative tattoos are uncommon in Japanese culture and therefore you may receive curious and sometimes disapproving looks from locals. Generally, comments about your tattoos are not common, but please endeavor to wear modest clothing and check the rules for bathing in public onsens.

Dress Code

While Japan is known for its eclectic fashion in some cities, overall it is quite a conservative country. Please remember while on tour you will visit temples, working monasteries, holy shrines, recreated villages and castles, cooking schools and ancient gardens. While visiting such places, especially those of religious significance, it is important to be respectful to the staff and other visitors by wearing modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.

Responsible Dining

We are big supporters of the protection of endangered species around the world. Although a global ban on commercial whaling came into effect in 1986, approximately 1,000 whales are still being killed every year. We do not visit places that serve whale meat on any of our trips, nor will your leader guide you to where it is offered.

Tipping

While gratuities are not included in your tour price, tips are a welcome gesture of appreciation. Tipping is, of course, at your discretion and the amount is entirely a personal preference, however, US$8-10 per person, per day (or the equivalent in the local currency), is a good guide. 

Peak Travel Times

Please be aware that while travelling during major national holidays (late April to early May in Japan) and peak seasons in Japan (April-May/September–October) are fascinating times to travel, there are also some downsides to consider. There will be huge crowds at most tourist attractions and on all public transport. It's often difficult to secure train tickets at preferred times, and traffic jams and changes to the itinerary without prior notice can sometimes be necessary. If you decide to travel during peak periods, come with a sense of adventure and flexibility and you will still have a memorable experience. 

Safety and Security

Most national governments provide regularly updated foreign travel advice on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your own government's advice for the most up-to-date travel information before departure and ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all destinations and activities on your trip.

Your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader or local representative will accompany you on all included activities listed on the itinerary, however, you'll have some free time to explore on your own if you wish. While your Inspiring Vacations tour leader or local guide will assist you as best they can with your requests and the options available outside your itinerary, please note Inspiring Vacations makes no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running the activity. Please use your judgement when selecting an activity in your free time.

Please also note that your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader or local representative has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the itinerary if it's deemed necessary due to safety concerns.

Apps to Download

Some useful apps you may want to consider downloading before your tour include Google Translate, the lens function is especially useful when wanting to read product labels, signs, and menus. Google Maps with offline maps downloaded is great for easy navigation without being reliant on wifi. The most widely used taxi app is GO Taxi. We also recommend downloading WhatsApp before you leave and using this to communicate with other group members while on tour. For those visiting during cherry blossom season, the Sakura Navi app (developed by the Japan Meteorological Corporation) is a must—it tracks the cherry blossom forecast in real-time for the entire country.

This is a land only package.

This package does not include international airfares. If you would like to add airfares to your booking our flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub. The flight portal will allow you to search for all available airfares to your destination. The function works like most general flight search engines allowing you to select your preferred airline, book different cabin classes (eg. Business class) and view flight durations and transit times to your destination. 

The flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub once the following criteria has been met:

• Your booking is confirmed
• Your departure date is within 11 months
• You  have completed your passenger detail form

Visit our Flight Hub for more information on terms and conditions, amending your flights and information on luggage allowances.