Discover Japan Tour: 15-day Small Group

Discover Japan Tour: 15-day Small Group offers travelers an immersive journey through the country’s rich cultural and historical landscape. With a carefully curated itinerary, the tour promises visits to iconic destinations and unique cultural experiences. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto, this small-group adventure provides a well-balanced blend of modernity and tradition. Whether you’re seeking an in-depth exploration or a taste of Japan’s captivating essence, this tour might be the perfect fit.

Key Points

• 15-day small group tour highlighting Japan’s cultural and historical landmarks in key destinations like Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Kanazawa.
• Activities include exploring temples, shrines, and gardens, as well as cultural experiences like a geisha performance and sake tasting.
• Accommodation in 4-5 star hotels and traditional ryokans, with transportation via bullet trains, private vehicles, and local public transit.
• Diverse dining experiences featuring traditional Japanese cuisine, including regional specialties and opportunities to sample street food.
• Maximum group size of 8 travelers, with a moderate physical fitness level required due to walking and mild hiking.

Tour Highlights

On this 15-day small group tour, travelers will experience a diverse array of Japan’s cultural and historical highlights.

In Tokyo, they’ll explore the iconic Sensoji Temple, the Imperial Palace, and the lively Shibuya Crossing.

In Kyoto, the group will visit the stunning Kinkakuji Temple and the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.

Travelers will also journey to Hiroshima to pay their respects at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum.

Throughout the tour, they’ll enjoy Japan’s rich traditions, from a geisha performance in Gion to a sake tasting at a local brewery.

Itinerary Overview

This 15-day small group tour provides travelers with a comprehensive itinerary to discover the cultural and historical highlights of Japan. The schedule includes visits to iconic destinations like Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Miyajima Island. Travelers will explore ancient temples, shrines, and castles, experience traditional Japanese cuisine, and enjoy the country’s unique blend of modern and traditional elements.

Day	Location	Activities
1-3	Tokyo	Explore Sensoji Temple, Imperial Palace, Tsukiji Fish Market
4-6	Kyoto	Visit Kinkakuji, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Fushimi Inari Shrine
7-8	Hiroshima	Tour Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, Miyajima Island
9-11	Kanazawa	Discover Kenroku-en Garden, Kanazawa Castle, Samurai Districts
12-15	Takayama	Explore Hida Folk Village, Shirakawa-go, Takayama Old Town

Accommodation and Transportation

Throughout the 15-day journey, travelers will be accommodated in a variety of meticulously selected hotels and ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) that provide a comfortable and authentic experience.

The tour includes:

1. Stays in 4-5 star accommodations in major cities like Tokyo and Kyoto.
2. Ryokan stays in rural areas to immerse in traditional Japanese culture.
3. Centrally located properties near public transportation and key sights.
4. High-quality services and amenities to ensure a relaxing and seamless experience.

Transportation is provided via a combination of bullet trains, private vehicles, and local public transportation to maximize efficiency and exposure to the diverse landscapes of Japan.

Included Meals and Dining Experiences

Meals throughout the Discover Japan Tour are carefully curated to provide travelers with a comprehensive exploration of Japanese cuisine. The tour includes 14 breakfasts and 4 dinners, allowing participants to experience a variety of local specialties.

Breakfasts feature traditional Japanese dishes like miso soup, grilled fish, and seasonal produce. Dinners showcase regional delicacies, from Osaka’s iconic okonomiyaki to Kyoto’s refined kaiseki ryori.

Between meals, travelers can sample street food, visit local markets, and dine at recommended restaurants, seeing Japan’s vibrant food culture.

Dietary restrictions can be accommodated with advance notice.

Group Size and Traveler Requirements

The Discover Japan Tour is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a small and intimate group experience. This group size allows for personalized attention from the tour guide and flexibility in the itinerary.

To ensure an enjoyable and enriching journey, the tour has the following traveler requirements:

1. Moderate physical fitness level is required, as the tour involves some walking and mild hiking.

2. Travelers with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions are not recommended for this tour.

3. The tour is not wheelchair accessible.

4. Travelers must be able to navigate the tour’s meeting points and transportation using public transit.

Meeting and End Points

Where is the meeting point for the Discover Japan Tour?

The meeting point is in Tokyo, Japan. The exact location is provided in Google Maps, allowing participants to easily find the starting point.

At the conclusion of the 15-day tour, travelers will return to the same meeting point in Tokyo.

The tour schedule indicates the meeting and end times, with the tour starting in the morning and concluding in the early afternoon.

This consistent start and end location in the capital city of Tokyo provides convenience for participants joining and departing the small group tour.

Booking and Cancellation Policies

When booking the Discover Japan Tour, confirmation is received within 48 hours, subject to availability.

The cancellation policy for this tour is non-refundable, with no refunds for cancellations.

Travelers should be aware of the following key booking details:

1. Confirmation is subject to availability.
2. The tour is non-refundable, with no refunds for cancellations.
3. Travellers should plan their schedules carefully, as changes may not be possible.
4. Booking early is recommended to secure a spot, as the maximum group size is only 8 travelers.

Health and Accessibility Considerations

Travelers should be aware of the health and accessibility considerations for the Discover Japan Tour.

The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but it is located near public transportation. It is not recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions.

A moderate level of physical fitness is required, as the tour involves walking and exploration. Interested individuals should carefully consider their physical capabilities before booking the tour.

While the tour may not be suitable for all, those who meet the health requirements can look forward to an immersive and memorable experience in Japan.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the COVID-19 Safety Protocols for the Tour?

The tour operator has not provided specific details on COVID-19 safety protocols. Travelers should expect standard precautions such as mask wearing, social distancing, and enhanced cleaning procedures. It is recommended to inquire about the latest safety measures before booking.

Can Vegetarian or Vegan Meal Options Be Accommodated?

Vegetarian and vegan meal options can be accommodated, but travelers should confirm this with the local provider in advance. Special dietary requirements may incur an additional cost or have limited availability during the tour.

Is It Possible to Upgrade or Extend the Tour Duration?

Tour extensions and upgrades may be available upon request, subject to availability and additional fees. Travelers should contact the local provider directly to inquire about potential modifications to the standard tour package.

How Much Additional Spending Money Should I Bring?

Based on the provided tour details, it is recommended that travelers bring additional spending money of approximately $50 to $100 per day for personal expenses, such as optional activities, meals not included, and incidentals. The exact amount may vary based on individual preferences and spending habits.

Can I Arrive Early or Depart Later From the Tour Start/End Point?

Most tour operators allow flexibility for travelers to arrive before or depart after the scheduled tour dates, but additional costs and arrangements may apply. It is recommended to consult with the tour provider for their specific policies on early arrival or late departure.

The Sum Up

The "Discover Japan Tour: 15-day Small Group" offers an immersive and well-curated exploration of Japan’s cultural and historical highlights. With a small group size, tailored experiences, and comfortable accommodations, this tour provides an unforgettable journey for travelers seeking an in-depth introduction to the beauty, traditions, and modernity of the Land of the Rising Sun.