10 Best Japan Tour Operators 2024 [Unbiased & With Reviews]

10 best japan tour operators 2024.

Are you planning to visit Japan, but unsure which tour provider to select? Now, you no longer have to waste time searching the internet and filling out dozens of contact forms. Simply fill out ONE form, we’ll send it off to multiple tour providers and they’ll contact YOU! You’ll be able to compare rates and find the lowest cost tour for the most affordable trip abroad.

Are you thinking about taking a trip to Japan ? Are you wondering what are the best tours of Japan? Are you looking for the best and safest Japan tour companies to plan your trip?

Japan, a country in East Asia, is known for being highly developed and economically advanced in Asia. Despite experiencing nuclear bombings during World War II, Japan managed to recover and became a major economic player in the world. Tokyo, the lively and bustling capital, is a great starting point for exploration rather than the beaches. Japan has an efficient high-speed train network that connects the entire country, allowing quick travel to various landscapes like Mount Fuji, green rice fields, sake breweries, historic cities like Kyoto and Nara, and ski resorts like Niseko. The country is famous for its sushi, sake, soccer, and sumo wrestling, making it an enticing destination for exploration and adventure.

While travelling to the Japan is a marvelous experience, it can get quite complicated when you start Googling the best tour operators in Japan. Indeed, hundreds of results will pop up, all claiming to be “the best”. But some just aren’t honest – so how do you know which one to select? Choosing the incorrect tour company in Japan could have terrible effects on your Japan holiday.

To save you time, we did the hard work for you. We spent thousands of hours researching, and found the safest and best tour operators in Japan for you. In this article, we’ll present to you an unbiased selection of the 10 best Japan tour operators of the world.

Table update Jan 8, 2024

Japan Panoramic Tours

japan tours

Japan Panoramic Tours , a top-rated tour operator in Japan, has reputation of taking over 70,000 travelers from 135+ countries on unforgettable journeys across Japan. Their mission is to offer lifelong travel experience in Japan through immersive packages.

Boasting multiple TripAdvisor Certificates of Excellence, they captivate guests with fluent English narration and multi-lingual audio guides (EN, FR, IT, ES, ZH, TH, ID, UK). After a two-year Covid hiatus, Japan Panoramic Tours are back in 2023, offering meticulously planned itineraries that maximize your time at must-see destinations.

Japan Panoramic Tours Best Japan Tour Packages

Japan Panoramic Tours offers several exciting packages for travelers. The AMAZING TOKYO 1Day Bus Tour is perfect for those who want to see the city’s must-see landmarks, like the Tokyo Skytree and Imperial Palace, in a single day. The tour also includes a matcha experience, lunch, and a Tokyo Bay cruise.

For something a little more adventurous, the Sea Kayak Experience Tour in Ota , Haneda area is a great option. This tour allows visitors to kayak up close to Haneda Airport and watch planes take off and land.

If you’re looking to escape the city and experience some of Japan’s natural beauty, the Fantastic Fuji And Hakone 1day Bus Tour is the perfect choice. This tour takes you to Mt. Fuji, the highest mountain in Japan, and Hakone, which is famous for its hot springs and stunning scenery. The tour also includes a buffet lunch, a Lake Ashi cruise, and a visit to Hakone Shrine.

Japan Panoramic Tours Reviews

Japan Panoramic Tours has firmly established itself as a leading tour operator in Japan, earning widespread acclaim from travelers. With an impressive reputation on TripAdvisor, the company has garnered over 13,700 reviews, with 5 star rating.

This is an Excellent tour. Mai was a great guide. We very much much enjoyed the day. The boat ride was a perfect way to end the tour… Ben318

Read all reviews of Japan Panoramic Tours on TripAdvisor.

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Japan Guide Agency

Japan Guide Agency

Japan Guide Agency is a premier tour company in Japan that helps explorers experience Japan’s hidden gems and iconic landmarks. They help you skip the tourist traps and delve deeper with their licensed guides. These multilingual experts not only navigate you through must-see sights but also lead you off the beaten path, revealing Japan’s true charm. Japan Guide Agency’s curated short trips offer an immersive and affordable way to experience the magic of this captivating country. They are Japan’s largest touring agency with over 750 licensed guides and offering 1500 private tours per month.

Japan Guide Agency Best Japan Tour Packages

Japan Guide Agency offers several packages for those who want to explore the best of Japan.

The Sapporo Full-Day Private Tour is a great way to see the city’s modern and traditional sides. The tour includes a visit to the Susukino district, the Odori Park, and the Sapporo Beer Museum.

The Hiraizumi Full-Day Private Trip is a fantastic way to explore the ancient city of Hiraizumi. The tour includes a visit to the Chusonji Temple, the Motsuji Temple, and the Takkoku-no-Iwaya.

The Kanazawa Full-day Private Tour is a great way to see the beautiful town of Kanazawa. The tour includes a visit to the Kenrokuen Garden, the Higashi Chaya District, and the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art.

All of these tours can be customized to fit your interests and needs. So, if you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable way to experience Japan, look no further than Japan Guide Agency!

Japan Guide Agency Reviews

Japan Guide Agency is a highly acclaimed tour operator in Japan. They are go-to choose for Tours & Activities in Japan, boasting an impressive 3,527 reviews on TripAdvisor. Their commitment to excellence has been recognized with the Travelers’ Choice Award for 2023. They are placed #1 of 19 Tours & Activities in Shizuoka.

We booked a walking tour through Viator, two days before the tour. We had a very good experience right from booking to the actual tour… Explore05200100331

Read all reviews of Japan Guide Agency on TripAdvisor.

Magical Trip

Magical Trip is one of the finest tour organizers of Japan that helps you experience an authentic Japan. Their local experts are knowledgeable on Japanese culture and help you experience thrilling adventure. The company is known for organizing Tokyo tours, Osaka tours, Nara tours, Kyoto tours, Hiroshima tours as well as niche tours targeted around different interests. Magical Trip is a certified tour agency in Japan that has garnered numerous awards over the years for their excellent service.

Magical Trip Best Tour Packages

Magical Trip has tours for every interest!

Foodies will love the Tokyo Bar Hopping Night Tour , which takes you to hidden bars and pubs in Shinjuku. You’ll enjoy local street food and drinks, and you’ll get photos taken during the tour.

If you’re interested in history and culture, the Kyoto Sake Brewery & Tasting Tour is a great option. You’ll learn about sake while walking around one of Kyoto’s three major sake brewery districts, and you’ll taste 18 kinds of sake!

And if you’re looking for an active adventure, the Osaka Highlights Bike Tour is perfect. You’ll cycle around the magnificent Osaka Castle area, and you’ll set foot in Osaka Castle and a shrine to learn its secrets and history.

Magical Trip Reviews

Magical Trip is a best-rated tour operator in Japan. The company has over 2800 reviews on TripAdvisor, most of them have 5-star ratings. Magical Trip is the best choice for Nightlife experience in Japan, ranking #1 of 289 Nightlife providers in Shinjuku.

Had a great time. Very knowledgeable guide who kept us well fed and informed. Nice mix of food and culture. Recommended…nzrichard2015

Read all reviews of Magical Trip on TripAdvisor.

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Japan Wonder Travel

Japan Wonder Travel

Japan Wonder Travel is a top-notch tour providing agency based in Japan. The company offers a unique and authentic Japanese experience through carefully crafted packages. They curate attractive itineraries, selecting the best destinations and specialized adventures to immerse you in Japanese culture. The company’s commitment is to ensure you leave with a smile and wonderful memories.

Their team consists of professionally trained and licensed Japanese tour guides with amazing personalities. Japan Wonder Travel also offers prompt assistance, helping you book restaurants, access venues, and fulfill your travel desires.

Japan Wonder Travel Best Japan Tour Packages

Japan Wonder Travel offers several exciting packages for every kind of traveler. If you’re looking for a delicious and immersive food experience, the Tsukiji Fish Market Food and Drink Tour is a great option. You’ll get to explore the outer market, try all sorts of Japanese foods, and learn about the history and culture of Japanese cuisine.

For those who want to see all the highlights of Tokyo in one day, the Tokyo 1-Day Highlights Private Walking Tour is the perfect choice. You’ll visit iconic landmarks like Tsukiji Fish Market, Sensoji Temple, Shibuya Crossing and learn about Japanese history and culture along the way.

And if you’re interested in learning how to make sushi, the Tokyo Sushi Making Experience+ Tsukiji Fish Market Explore Tour is a unique and unforgettable experience. You’ll start with a guided exploration of Tsukiji Fish Market, and then head to a sushi making class where you’ll learn how to make your own sushi from a professional chef.

No matter what your interests are, Japan Wonder Travel has a tour package that’s perfect for you.

Japan Wonder Travel Reviews

As a finest Travel and Tour operator of Japan, Japan Wonder Travel has numerous reviews under its name. It has a total of 2895 reviews on TripAdvisor, 97% of which are positive and praiseful. Similarly, it is a top choice for food adventure in Japan and has a ranking of #1 of 20 Food & Drink exploration in Tsukiji.

This was a great tour. Nobu was excellent. market was great. Good experience overall… matt

Read all reviews of Japan Wonder Travel on TripAdvisor.

Osaka Free Walking Tour

Osaka Free Walking Tour

Osaka Free Walking Tour is a top touring agency for walking tours in Japan. The company helps you in experiencing the heart of Japan’s culinary capital! You’ll get to immerse in the vibrant Japanese culture as they guide you through the city’s wonders. As the a licensed and highly experienced Japanese tour company, they guarantee you will have unforgettable holiday in Japan.

Osaka Free Walking Tour Best Japan Tour Packages

Osaka Free Walking Tour offers thrilling adventures! Feel the splendors of Osaka with the Osaka Walking Tour .

You’ll wander through the neon-lit chaos of Dotonbori, involve in Takoyaki and Okonomiyaki delights and explore the bustling Kuromon market’s seafood. Manga and anime enthusiasts will find bliss in Nipponbashi DenDen Town, a treasure trove of figurines, comics, and quirky maid cafes.

For a deeper Kyoto experience, join The Original Kyoto Free Walking Tour . Discover the city’s rich history, delve into geisha culture and religious traditions, and savor local life. Uncover hidden gems and laugh at fascinating “guidebook-unworthy” stories.

Osaka Free Walking Tour Reviews

Osaka Free Walking Tour is a top-notch walking tour provider In Japan, ranked 2 out of 272 tours and activities in Osaka. It has glowing 1361 reviews on TripAdvisor, most of which comprise 5-star ratings.

The best walking tour to explore the city, learn about its culture. The tour guide is experienced and insightful. Highly recommend!…Jack L

Read all reviews of Osaka Free Walking Tour on TripAdvisor.

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Arigato Japan Food Tours

Arigato Japan Food Tours is a highly acclaimed food tour operator in Japan. Arigato is a premier culinary tourism specialist in Japan, offering over 35 immersive Food Adventures across top destinations such as Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, and Mt. Fuji. With a profound belief that understanding a culture is best achieved through its cuisine, the company provides off-the-beaten-path experiences led by expert guides.

The diverse range of culinary adventures, including day, evening, and family-friendly options, ensures there’s something for every traveler. The company’s passionate team, fluent in English, is committed to delivering the best and most exciting experiences. From easy booking to seamless coordination, the company ensures that their each tour creates lasting memories.

Arigato Japan Food Tours Best Japan Tour Packages

Arigato Japan Food Tours offers several thrilling packages to explore the culinary delights of Japan. The 3-hour Tokyo Food Tour takes you through Ginza, showcasing hidden gems from the Showa period and allowing you to savor regional flavors from across Japan.

For a limited time during the 2024 Spring Season, the Daytime Hanami with a Local Tour in Osaka offers a unique experience in the Karahori district, away from the crowded parks. Immerse yourself in the charm of cherry blossoms while roaming in the local treats.

The Gion & Kaiseki Kyoto Tour is a luxurious journey through Kyoto’s historical Gion district. Stroll through the enchanting streets, learn about geisha culture, and culminate the experience with a memorable 10-course Kaiseki meal.

Arigato Japan Food Tours Reviews

Arigato Japan Food Tours is a premier tour agency in Japan. Arigato has over 1900 reviews on TripAdvisor, 97% of them having 5-star ratings. The company is adorned with numerous awards and recognition and ranks #2 out 59 food and drinks providers in Japan.

This tour was super fun. Our guide, Makiko was funny and friendly and so attentive. The sushi was absolutely the best we have ever eaten… Debbie R

Read all reviews of Arigato Japan Food Tours on TripAdvisor.

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Tokyo Localized

Tokyo Localized is a local Japanese tour company. The company was founded with a mission to provide unique Japanese vacation to international tourists. Tokyo Localized was established by Dai, a passionate Tokyo resident, to offer an authentic perspective of Tokyo through the eyes of locals. The company’s aim is to uncover the hidden gems and true essence of the city, steering away from conventional tourist spots.

Tokyo Localized Best Japan Tour Packages

Tokyo Localized offers several exciting packages that cater to different interests.

For those who want to experience the old-fashioned charm of Tokyo, the Yanaka Walking Tour is a great option. This tour takes you through a quiet neighborhood that survived World War II, and you’ll see traditional wooden temples and houses, as well as a huge cemetery and some unique temples. You’ll also get to walk on backstreets in the residential area and a shopping street for locals, giving you a glimpse into everyday Japanese life.

If you’re interested in food and history, the Tsukiji Fish Market Walking Food Tour is a must-do. This tour takes you around the outer market of the Tsukiji Fish Market, which was once the world’s biggest fish market. You’ll learn about the history of sushi and get to sample some of the delicious food that the market has to offer.

And for those who want to see both the old and new sides of Tokyo, the Original Free Walking Tour of Tokyo is a great choice. This tour covers everything from the ancient temples of Asakusa to the modern skyscrapers of Shinjuku. You’ll also get to try some traditional Japanese food and learn about the history and culture of the city.

Tokyo Localized Reviews

Tokyo Localized is one of the best travel and tour service provider of Japan with multiple international awards and recognition. It has over 1800 positive reviews on TripAdvisor, most of them comprising 5-star ratings, reflecting their high client satisfaction rate.

Great food tour on Christmas morning. Learned a lot. Came hungry, left with a full stomach. Keiko shared so much information and made the experience memorable… Chris

Read all reviews of Tokyo Localized on TripAdvisor.

Satoyama Experience

Satoyama Experience

Satoyama Experience , founded in 2010, is the best-rated Japanese tour operator. The company is dedicated to connecting travelers with the authentic charm of Takayama’s countryside. Satoyama Experience strives to sustain local culture and biodiversity, promoting a positive impact on both visitors and residents while contributing to a more sustainable society.

Satoyama Experience Best Tour Packages

Satoyama Experience offers several exciting packages that let you experience the beauty of Japan.

The 3.5-Hour Guided Cycling Tour of Satoyama is a great way to get some exercise and see the sights. The tour takes you on a scenic 22 km route through the town, past natural havens and local gathering areas. You’ll also get to visit the local market, where you can try some of the local food.

If you’re interested in learning more about the local crafts, the Craft Walk Tour is a great option. This tour takes you to some of the best craft shops in Takayama, where you can learn about the history and production techniques of Hida craftsmanship.

And if you’re looking for a winter adventure, the Satoyama Snowshoeing Tour is the perfect choice. This tour takes you through a snow-covered village, where you can see wildlife and learn about the lives of the local people.

Satoyama Experience Reviews

Satoyama Experience is a top-rated tour operating agency in Japan. Satoyama’s outdoor activities and trips are highly rated with a ranking of 2 out of 36 outdoor activities in Takayama, Japan. It has 1,222 reviews on TripAdvisor, most of which are 5-star rating.

We experienced a Culture and Food tour of Takayama with Dong Ju that was fun, interesting and comprehensive… concordia39

Read all reviews of Satoyama Experience on TripAdvisor.

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Osaka Food Tours

Osaka Food Tours

Osaka Food Tours , a top-notch tour operator of Japan, provides a one-of-a-kind exploration of the vibrant city of Osaka. The company is led by the charismatic and knowledgeable guide, Andy, who offers a unique blend of Japanese and Australian perspectives. Unlike conventional food tours, the experiences provided by Osaka Food Tours takes you through the fascinating ghetto, retro zones, yakuza territories, red-light districts, and neighborhood alleys. The company also focuses on providing historical tours and beaten path tours.

Osaka Food Tours Best Japan Tour Packages

Osaka Food Tours offers different packages to explore the culinary delights of the vibrant city. The Backstreets Osaka Tour is a 3-hour adventure through the hidden gems of Osaka, including the ghetto, retro zone, and red light district, with an option to indulge in authentic local specialties and a local Izakaya experience.

The Osaka Food Tours package provides a guided exploration of Shinsekai and Nishinari. The tour uncovers Osakan food culture and featuring visits to market stalls, standing bars, and izakayas, along with two local Japanese drinks.

For a market-focused experience, the Kuromon Market Food Tour promises a feast of 10-13 Osaka specialties, ranging from seafood to desserts, all while providing an environmentally-friendly souvenir.

Osaka Food Tours Reviews

Osaka Food Tours is a renowned tour agency in Japan that has garnered numerous praise and positive reviews. The company has 1,389 reviews on TripAdvisor of which 97% are positive and have 5-star ratings. It’s rating of #3 out of 625 tour providers in Japan represents the company’s dedication in providing high quality services.

This tour was way more than we expected. Dom was extremely knowledgeable and gave us insights into Osaka’s past… Arlene D

Read all reviews of Osaka Food Tours on TripAdvisor.

Cycle Kyoto

Cycle Kyoto

Cycle Kyoto is one of the best Cycling tour providers in Japan. The company’s main mission is to provide ultimate cycling adventures to people of all ages. Founded in 2015 by passionate cyclists, Cycle Kyoto has flourished into one of Japan’s most beloved bike tour companies over the years. The company boasts highly experienced English speaking guides, a fleet of 18 and 21-speed cross bikes from renowned brands like ‘Giant’ and ‘Trek,’ Cycle Kyoto.

Cycle Kyoto Best Japan Tour Packages

Cycle Kyoto provides several exciting packages to explore the beauty of Kyoto on two wheels. The “ E-Bike Tour ” starts early, covering 25km in 6-7 hours. Highlights include Fushimi Inari Shrine, Tofukuji Temple, Ginkakuji Temple, and more.

The “ Full Day Tour ” spans 30km in 7-8 hours, combining both routes. It includes Nishi Honganji Temple, Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, the Golden Pavilion, and Gion.

For a focused experience, the “ North Kyoto Tour ” covers 22km in 6-7 hours. Highlights include Nishi Honganji Temple, Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, the Golden Pavilion, and Gion. Each package includes a bike, helmet, guide, lunch, and water.

Cycle Kyoto Reviews

As one of the finest Cycle tour operators in Japan, it’s no surprise that Cycle Kyoto has accumulated hundreds of positive reviews and praise from past clients. The company has over 1300 reviews on TripAdvisor, most of them having 5-star ratings and high appraisal from customers.

The tour was great. Juan was really helpful and considerate throughout the tour and also helped us take pictures. His knowledge and friendliness… vajjhas

Read all reviews of Cycle Kyoto on TripAdvisor.

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The best time to visit Japan depends on your preferences. You would rather see cherry blossoms in spring (March to May), experience colorful foliage in autumn (September to November), enjoy warm weather in summer (June to August), or explore a winter wonderland in December to February.

A good trip to Japan usually lasts around 10 to 14 days. This duration allows you to explore major cities like Tokyo and Kyoto, experience traditional culture, visit historical sites, and enjoy the scenic beauty.

Japan is not limited to guided tours; independent travel is common and accessible. The country has an efficient public transportation system, including trains and buses. English signage is prevalent in tourist areas, and many locals in urban areas understand basic English.

The cost of a Japan tour can vary widely based on factors like accommodation, transportation, activities, and dining preferences. On average, a mid-range budget for a 10-day trip might range from $3,000 to $5,000 per person.

Japan Trips & Tour Packages

Group on the famous Shinjuku Crossing in Tokyo, Japan with the colourful neo signs in the background

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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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.

Visit ancient temples and walk history-laden pilgrim routes on a 8 day Koya-san & Kumano Trek.

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.    

Reflect on the historic and sobering sites of Hiroshima and Nagasaki while on an 24 day Ultimate Japan tour.

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. 

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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. Wander through the streets of Tokyo on our 12 day Classic Japan tour.

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. Experience Osaka on our 12 day Japan Family Holiday.

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. Spot Geisha in Kyoto on our 9 day Japan Express tour.

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. Explore Kanazawa on our 11 day Cycle Japan tour or on our 10 day Essential Japan adventure.

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. 

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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

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

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Japan travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

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.

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 10 to 20°C (50–70°F), with conditions getting sunnier and clearer towards the end of the season.
  • Summer (June to August): temperatures range from 21 to 32°C (70–90°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.
  • Autumn (September to November): temperatures range from 7 to 20°C (45–65°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 0 to 15°C (30–60°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 travellers 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?

Travelers who identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community 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 queer 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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Extremely well organised, great mixture between organised.

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

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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...

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

well organised_x000D_ we appreciated not going to the

well organised_x000D_ we appreciated not going to the expensive, flashy and touristy restaurants, which gave us a good varied eating experience_x000D_ good mix of or...

Truly a magical tour. It will make you want to return .....soon !

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Top Tour Operators and Travel Agencies in Japan. Below you will find 31 of the best tour operators and travel agencies in Japan offering in total 151 tours and holidays through-out Japan. Combined they have received 164 customer reviews and an average rating of 5 out of 5 stars. The top tour activities offered in Japan are: Sightseeing, attractions, culture and history, Adventure and sport & Wildlife, landscapes and nature.

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29 Tour Operators in Japan with 164 Reviews

Exodus Travels

Exodus Travels

  • Address Grange Mills, Weir Road, London, England
  • Response Rate 85%
  • Response Time 2 hours

best tour company for japan

  • Best-in-Class Top 5% of companies
  • Excellent Service Top 10% of companies
  • Superior Service Top 15% of companies

The Dragon Trip

The Dragon Trip

  • Address Rm. 202, Building 4, 689 Xinhu Rd, Baoshan District, Shanghai, PR China , Shanghai, China
  • Response Rate 100%

One Life Adventures LTD

One Life Adventures LTD

  • Address 200 George street, Sydney, Australia
  • Response Rate 97%
  • Response Time 3 hours

World Expeditions

World Expeditions

  • Address 1B Osiers Road, Wandsworth, London, England
  • Response Rate 82%
  • Response Time 1 hour

G Adventures

G Adventures

  • Address G Adventures Ltd, 60 Bastwick Street, London, England
  • Response Rate 90%

Travel Talk

Travel Talk

  • Address 18 Exhibition House Addison Bridge Place, London, England
  • Response Rate 96%

Intro Travel

Intro Travel

  • Address Level 2, 332 Kent Street, Sydney, Australia
  • Response Rate 89%

Costsaver

  • Address 33 Kern Road, Toronto, Canada
  • Response Rate 88%

Intrepid Travel

Intrepid Travel

  • Address 380 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne, Australia

Contiki

  • Address 38-51 Bedford Way, London, England

On The Go Tours

On The Go Tours

  • Address 3 Shortlands, 4th floor, Office 19, Hammersmith, England

Trafalgar

  • Address Picquet House, St Peter Port, Guernsey, London, England

Topdeck

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  • Response Rate 81%

Explore

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3 Best Japanese Tour Companies (Get the Best of Japan)

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A visit to Japan is often a once-in-a-lifetime trip, so you must get things right.

Organizing a tour of Japan can be complicated but the best Japanese tour companies make travel easier and more fulfilling by arranging a scheduled itinerary that helps you get the most out of your trip.

Best Japanese Tour Companies travel guide

In this article, we share three of the best Japanese tour companies and examples of the trips you can choose from to see everything Japan has to offer.

Table of Contents

Why travel to Japan?

The reasons to visit The Land of The Rising Sun are innumerable, but here are four great reasons to put a visit to Japan on your bucket list.

Outstanding natural beauty

Japan’s temperate Northern Hemisphere climate supports extremely varied terrain with a variety of ecosystems and unusual geological phenomena like its abundant hot springs.

Why Travel To Japan?

Japan even has its alpine region along with amazing wildlife like the dwarf flying squirrel and the Japanese snow monkey that can ensure harsh winters in the mountainous terrain.

Japan works hard to preserve its diverse natural scenery and welcome tourists who want to explore and enjoy nature responsibly.

Amazing world heritage sites

Japan boasts 25 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, a remarkable achievement!

By visiting Japan, you’ll be able to explore some of the world’s most outstanding architecture including temples, shrines, castles, and mines.

These sites are all over the islands of Japan, so ensure that your tour takes in legendary sites like the monuments of ancient Kyoto , Himeji castle, and the Shiretoko Peninsula. 

A unique culture

The history and customs of Japan are renowned around the world for their uniqueness.

Even though Japanese society is incredibly technologically and economically advanced, the people have taken great care to preserve their traditions.

A visit to Japan provides the opportunity to see interesting Japanese cultural activities and traditions like:

  • Sumo wrestling
  • Tea ceremonies
  • Arts and crafts, including swordmaking and incense production
  • Festivals like Sakura and Hanami

Take a look – 10 Best Hanami Destinations In Japan

Delicious food

Japan is a foodie’s paradise with some of the world’s most popular cuisine.

One of the best aspects of any trip to Japan is eating authentic Japanese food, served with traditional hospitality.

Amazing food is everywhere, and Tokyo boasts the most Michelin stars of any city on earth!

Best Japanese tour companies

Selecting the best tour company for your Japanese trip will help you get the most out of visiting this fascinating country.

The best tour companies for Japan specialize in small group tours that are meticulously planned to show you as much of the country as possible in a short time and immerse you in Japanese culture.

Their packages are all-inclusive with your flights and transfers organized.

Here are three of the best Japanese tour companies that operate globally.

1. GAdventures

GAdventures Japan company travel tour

GAdventures has been leading the alternative travel sector with its small-group travel packages for over thirty years.

If you want to have an adventure in Japan and venture beyond the cities and popular tourist spots this is the company to consider. 

GAdventures offers everything the discerning traveler needs for an amazing journey: 

  • small groups 
  • solo travel options
  • flexible itineraries
  • opportunities to explore
  • safe, all-inclusive travel
  • competitive pricing

This company has expertise in assembling groups of like-minded Nipponophiles who want to experience real Japan, with local, knowledgeable guides.

GAdventures is an especially good choice for solo travelers who may want to buddy up with a fellow traveler of the same sex for reduced prices.

About GAdventures

GAdventures was founded as GAP Adventures in 1990 by Anita Voth and Bruce Poon Tip.

Their company developed a unique approach to adventure travel, bridging the gap between backpacking and more sophisticated tours. 

Over the years, GAdventures has become a leading tour operator with 28 offices worldwide. GAdventures carries over 200,000 travelers each year with 700 itineraries available in 100 countries. 

GAdventures has an established reputation for Japanese tours that are immersive, allowing travelers to connect with locals and gain a deeper understanding of the history and culture of the islands. 

Nothing on these tours is mass-produced. GAdventures works with local hospitality businesses and venues so your Japanese tour is 100% local with money going straight to local economies. Trips are designed to sustain and not negatively impact the local environment. 

The itineraries provided are like menus, allowing you the freedom to select or omit particular options and themes, and include something different at any stage you want.

A decent amount of free time is worked into every tour. The tours are highly customizable and you can include pre- and post-trip transfers to destinations of your choice. 

If you want to create the family trip of a lifetime to Japan, GAdventures are on hand to help. Their small group packages extend to family tours that offer something for every family member. 

GAdventures available Japan tours 

A GAdventures tour is an efficient way to get across the whole of Japan in a short period. G Adventures offers at least 9 specially crafted tours lasting between 8 and 14 days. Prices start at $1300.

Here are some examples.

Epic Japan: Speed Trains & Street Food

  • 11-day tour
  • Ages 18 – 39
  • 14-person group
  • Train travel between Osaka, Hiroshima, Kyoto, Takayama, and Tokyo
  • Basic accommodation

Japan Family Journey: From Ancient to Modern Times

  • 20-person group
  • Tour developed in conjunction with National Geographic
  • Starts in Imperial Kyoto and ends in contemporary Tokyo
  • Family-friendly 
  • Enhanced amenities and support

Back Roads of Japan

  • Overlooked destinations and landmarks
  • Castle of Matsumoto, Hagi by bicycle, and a community homestay experience
  • 15-person group
  • From Tokyo to Kyoto 
  • Standard  accommodation

Why GAdventures?

GAdvetures has a network of Chief Experience Officers (CEOs) who handle every aspect of your Japan tour.

These Japanese travel professionals are 100% local with the knowledge and expertise to ensure that you get the maximum out of each day of your tour.

They’ll know the right time to hit the hotspots to avoid crowds and speak fluent Japanese to assist you wherever necessary. 

You can be confident that your group’s CEOs will be on the ground and available 24 hours per day. They are also backed up by local and regional support if any matter needs to be promptly escalated. 

2. H.I.S Discover Japan

H.I.S Discover Japan

H.I.S is an extremely reputable Japanese travel agency, that is able to assist travelers with all aspects of arranging a memorable trip to Japan.

This Japanese company operates internationally, with offices worldwide. H.I.S primarily serves Japanese nationals who want to travel overseas but also provides a comprehensive range of services and tours for non-Japaese tourists and residents who want to travel or do tours within Japan. 

H.I.S can assist you with arranging

  • Domestic Flights
  • Domestic Flight/Bus tour
  • Domestic Bus tour
  • Package tours
  • Wi-Fi rental

All services are Japan-wide and H.I.S can also arrange international transfers if you want to book a complete tour with them. 

About H.I.S

Since 1988, H.I.S has worked hard to establish itself as one of the best Japanese tour companies. They offer a classic travel agency service with unique excursions and tours within Japan.

If local knowledge is essential to you, this is the company to contact as the staff will freely provide on-the-ground knowledge without any obligation to book.

The company has a strong web and social media presence, but still does the majority of its business by face or by phone.

The knowledgeable staff will help you create your ideal itinerary, with experience days, and tours from their own extensive range of options.

H.I.S is renowned for its unique travel packages. The brand’s subsidiary businesses include robot-staffed hotels and theme parks, so they have the strong industry connections necessary to get your trip just the way you want it. 

Though Japanese in values, H.I.S is an international company with 200 subsidiary branches in 130 cities as well as a staggering 300 branches in Japan.

On your tour, you’ll be supported by some of the 13,000+ employees who ensure that you receive personal service before during, and after your trip. 

H.I.S available Japan tours 

H.I.S’ theme park days, bus tours, activities, and experiences are for Japanese and non-Japanese tourists, making it great for travelers who want to have an authentic Japanese experience.

Not all the tours are English-speaking so be sure to check with the travel agent before you book.

Examples of great tours offered by H.I.S include the following.

Also Read 📖

  • Japanese Theme Park Rules You Should Follow
  • 38 Japanese Theme Parks

Mt.Fuji Snow Experience, Hakone Pirate Ship & Visit to Gotemba Premium Outlet

  • Day excursion
  • Pirate ship trip on Lake Ashi
  • An all-you-can-eat BBQ buffet at Gotemba mall’s BBQ Restaurant
  • Mount Fuji snow experience
  • Gotemba Premium Outlets shopping experience for up to 2 hours

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  • 5 Best Hotels with a View of Mount Fuji

Hiroshima and Miyajima Walking Tour

  • 1-day walking tour
  • Explore the historic site of Hiroshima with an English-speaking guide
  • Includes visit to the Atomic Bomb Dome and Place of Prayer for Peace

Read next – 5 Best Hotels in Miyajima Island

Tsukiji Outer Market Gourmet Tour!

  • Tour the world-famous Tsukiji’s outer market with a local guide
  • 9:30 am meet up
  • Try Outer Market street food and fresh delicacies!
  • Receive presents including a Tsukiji area map, secret souvenir, and free Wi-Fi Service

H.I.S is a great choice for a local Japanese travel agent who has suitable expertise in supporting international travelers. H.I.S guides are also multi-lingual and extremely well-traveled, so you’ll be in good hands. 

They are well worth contacting if you have an existing trip to Japan and want to include additional activities or excursions.

What to Expect? Though you do not need a travel agent to book domestic flights or rail tickets in Japan, the company will help you get the best prices and arrange everything for you. 

H.I.S. is also making the most of the digital age and had introduced a selection of virtual tours of Japan .

For $15, you can participate in a range of tours and experiences from the comfort of your armchair including:

  • LIVE Sumo Webinar & REAL Sumo Exercise with Sumo Wrestlers!
  • Takayama Rickshaw tour
  • Tea ceremony & Origami Experience

3. Intrepid Travel

Intrepid Travel tour company

Intrepid Travel is another big player in small-group global travel.

The company has a great reputation for its tours to Japan and other destinations.

With great local knowledge and connections, Intrepid Travel provides packages that maximize your exposure to the authenticity of Japan. 

These Japanese tours are rich in experiences ranging from sake tastings, onsens, and exploration of World Heritage-listed sites.

About Intrepid Travel

Intrepid Travel was founded in 1988 by Australians, Darrell Wade, and Geoff Manchester after a six-month trip around Africa.

The travel bug has never left them and over three decades, Intrepid Travel has become one of the world’s best Japanese Tour companies due to their unique take on small group travel. 

Intrepid is a B Corporation Certified business and has championed sustainable, ethical travel. Their expertise and local approach means that you can expect to be well-handled at every stage of your tour.

All tours are created and operated by Intrepid Travel, minimizing the risk of mistakes or other disappointments on your trip. 

Intrepid Travel Japan tours 

Keep In Mind – Not all the tours are English-speaking so be sure to check with the travel agent before you book.

Japan Express

  • Outstanding value
  • Start in Tokyo and finish in Kyoto
  • Excursion to Nikko for trails, heritage, and onsen
  • Bullet train and public transportation passes
  • Local leaders to show you around
  • 5 Best Hotels In Nikkō

Koya-san & Kumano Kodo Trek

  • 8-day walking tour
  • Trek ancient trails that are tourist-free
  • 3 to 15 km daily hikes
  • Some overnight stays at religious sites
  • Onsen visits 
  • Traditional ryokan stays

Ultimate Japan

  • 24-day trip starting in Tokyo and finishing in Osaka
  • Minimum age: 15 years
  • Rail transfers with JR pass included
  • Visit: Yakushima forests, Iya Valley vine bridge, Naoshima Island, Takayama market
  • Packed itinerary covering the major Japanese islands

Why Intrepid Travel?

Intrepid Travel has outstanding experience in creating tours for Japan and Australasia.

The company has a wealth of local knowledge and knows how to craft an itinerary that will provide just the right balance of excursions, activities, and free time you’ll need to rest and roam.

Tour leaders deliver an immersive experience because they are born and raised locals from across Japan, sharing local secrets about their towns and cities.

These tours are all about lived experiences and the guides and leaders are trained to safely take you off the beaten path to the places locals enjoy. 

Intrepid Travel ensures that groups are small and well-balanced with travelers from all walks of life.

Solo travelers , groups, and budget travelers can get the most out of Japan. And of course, this Japanese tour company makes every effort to ensure that your travel is sustainable so you leave Japan just how you found it. 

Best Japanese tour companies FAQs

Best Japanese Tour Companies FAQs

Do US citizens need to apply for a visa to travel to Japan?

The United States is a visa-exempt country. You can travel to Japan without requiring a visa for leisure or business purposes for up to 90 days per trip. 

Do you have to be COVID-19 vaccinated to travel to Japan?

No. But travelers without valid vaccination certificates are required to provide a certificate of testing negative for COVID-19 within 72 hours of departure. These requirements may be subject to change at short notice.

Refer to the following sites for the latest guidance: – US Embassy and Consulates in Japan – Japan Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare

When is the best time of the year to travel to Japan?

Japan is amazing at any time of the year, but Spring and Fall are particularly wonderful because of the vibrant natural scenery created by the blossoms and turning leaves. There are many festivals taking place at these times of the year.

In Conclusion

A decent Japanese tour company is a prudent choice for getting the most out of a trip to Japan. Look for companies that offer small group travel with lots of local knowledge to ensure that you see and sample everything that this amazing country has to offer!

Best Golden Week Destinations In Japan

About the author

best tour company for japan

Renee Christian

Renée Christian is a writer and long-standing travel enthusiast who enjoys learning about other countries, cultures, and foods! When she’s not perfecting a ramen bowl or tempura recipe in the kitchen, you’ll find her in her permaculture garden or trekking the nearest coastal path!

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All Japan Tours offers unlimited vacation possibilities to explore and experience an unforgettable trip to Japan. Whether you’re interested in Japanese cherry blossom tours , festival tours , autumn leaves tours or special interest tours , our Japan tour packages will bring your vacation dreams to reality. Choose tours based on style , interest , date , or season . Our Japan group tour packages are fully escorted, and we can also arrange special-interest private tours , custom group tours , and other Asia country tours to match your specific needs. | Why All Japan Tours

From Group Tours, to Custom Private Tours, to Japan Luxury Travel

Whether you're planning for a special occasion, family reunion, company event, luxury trip or an entire Japan holiday package, All Japan Tours can help you plan the perfect Japan experience. No matter what your interests are, you are always in excellent hands when you travel with All Japan Tours. Our Japan vacation packages cover all budgets from luxury to adventure and are available with or without international flights for full flexibility. Join an escorted group tour on a pre-designed itinerary, or let us create one for you. We have the firsthand know-how to take you well beyond ordinary travel.

The Best Japan Vacation Packages & Itineraries

When you consider the cost, hassle, and uncertainty of traveling on your own, you'll discover how an All Japan Tours vacation is like no other. Everything has been arranged in advance, from itinerary to hotel accommodations, so all you have to do is take in the breathtaking scenery. There is no need to worry about getting lost or finding transportation; leave the details to us and start having the time of your life. Our team works together to give you the very best Japan vacation. This includes our long-time tour guides in Japan that offer both current and historical enlightenment of its cities and towns, as well as expertise on where to find the most beautiful Japanese gardens and temples, local restaurants, and interesting shops. We understand how important it is to make your visit to Japan memorable and worthwhile, so our team both in the office and on the tours strive their best to accommodate your specific needs every step of the way. Book a Japan tour with us and start your unforgettable vacation today!

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What can we offer for your japan trip, japan escorted group tours.

The most cost-efficient and hassle-free way to travel Japan

AJT group tours are the best way to ensure that you do not miss seeing any of the highlights of Japan. We plan our group tours based on seasonal attractions with must see sites in every tour. All of our Japan group tour itineraries are researched and developed by our professional staff, all of whom have spent years working as a tour guide in Japan. We offer four different tour styles to pick from that are best suited to your interests, from train travel to luxury tours. We are confident that you will find something that is appealing and fascinating to you from our Group Tours. AJT group tour packages offer something suitable for everyone, no matter what your budget or tastes are.

Japan Private Journeys

Just you and your traveling partner

A private journey is the perfect solution for if you can't find a published departure date that you and your companion(s) agree on. Our private journeys allow you to customize the perfect itinerary for you and your companion(s). Our team will do our best to fulfill every detail and request to design your perfect tour.

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You plan, with our help, where and when your group travels

Do you wish to travel with family, friends, school, church, club, or organization to Japan? We have the knowledge and experience to fulfill your wants. Let us arrange your sensational trip to Japan!

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Japan Cherry Blossom Tours

Japan Cherry Blossom Tours

Our Japan cherry blossom tours are our most popular tours because we highlight the top places to see sakura, the most renowned flower in the country. Experience Japanese cherry blossom festivals, a cherry blossom dance show performed by geisha, and sakura views from Mt. Fuji, to gardens in Kyoto.

Japan Autumn Leaves Tours

Japan Autumn Leaves Tours

Our Japan autumn leaves tours give you exclusive access to beautiful gardens, temples, shrines, and famous landmarks while enjoying the colorful autumn scenery along the way. We offer Japan tours to rural parts of Japan, historical towns, World Heritage sites, and diverse shopping districts.

Japan Festival Tours

Japan Festival Tours

Our Japanese festival tours cover festivals from all seasons. Matsuri (festivals) can range from celebrations to honor a shrine's deity to joyful seasonal occurrences. Participate in one of the biggest festivals in Japan, the Kyoto Aoi Festival, or check out the Gion Summer Festival on one of our Japan tours.

Special Interest Tours

Special Interest Tours

We offer tours for people specifically interested in anime, the pilgrimage route of Japan, visiting the most beautiful places in Japan, focusing on Japan's breathtaking flowers, seeing snow monkeys in winter, visiting the best nature spots of Hokkaido, and spending time at the art island of Naoshima.

Top 12 Attractions in Japan

Takayama Festivals

Takayama Festivals

Lavenders in Hokkaido

Lavenders in Hokkaido

Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route

Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route

Wisteria

Snow Monkeys

Japan Winter Festivals

Japan Winter Festivals

Awa Odori Dance Festival

Awa Odori Dance Festival

Gion Summer Festival

Gion Summer Festival

Kyoto Aoi Festival

Kyoto Aoi Festival

Shibazakura Festivals

Shibazakura Festivals

Baby Blue Eye Flowers at Hitachi Seaside Park

Baby Blue Eye Flowers at Hitachi Seaside Park

Tohoku 3 Great Summer Festivals

Tohoku 3 Great Summer Festivals

Experience the takayama spring & autumn festivals during your trip to japan, one of japan's most beautiful festivals..

Witness the beautiful Takayama Festivals in Japan, not once, but twice a year. We offer a list of Japan tour packages that allow you to experience the lavishly decorated floats, known as yatai, which feature karakuri (mechanical puppets) that dance and move impressively. Whichever season you prefer, we have a Japan tour package reserved for either Takayama Festivals.

View our Japan tours featuring Takayama Festivals

Get lost in the lovely furano flower fields surrounded with lavender flowers, and enjoy views of the spacious fields in biei..

Our Hokkaido lavender tours showcase the best spots to indulge in lavender beauty during its flowering season. Take a Japan trip to Farm Tomita in Furano, known as one of the best places in Japan to see spectacular backdrops of lavender. Our lavender tours will also take you to a small town called Biei, overlapping with picturesque hills, vast fields, and the popular Panorama Road.

View our Japan tours featuring Lavenders in Hokkaido

The tateyama kurobe alpine route is an amazing route that goes through the northern japan alps..

Visit the famous and long demanded Alpine Route in Japanese Alps. Requiring varying modes of transportation, this route takes you through mountains and valleys for some of the most scenic views in all of Japan. From high mountain peaks reflected in the surface of calm, crystal lakes to the lower elevations at the Kurobe Dam and the famous site of the snow corridor, this route is sure to be unforgettably beautiful.

View our Japan tours featuring Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route

Take delight in viewing elegant wisteria flowers at ashikaga flower park and kawachi fuji garden during your tour to japan..

Wisteria are dream-like flowers that hang like pink and purple chandeliers. On our Japan Wisteria Tours, you will visit places like the Kawachi Fuji Garden and Ashikaga Flower Park. The Kawachi Fuji Garden features picture-worthy flower tunnels you can walk underneath, while the Ashikaga Flower Park is significant for their "Great Wisteria", a famous tree that's over a 150 years old.

View our Japan tours featuring Wisteria

Watch japanese snow monkeys bathe in hot springs at jigokudani snow monkey park on a japan winter tour..

Our snow monkey tours will take you to the Jigokudani Yaenkoen Park, where you can see Japanese Macaque, known as "snow monkeys". Thousands of people come to see the monkeys, whom are native to northern Japan and can be recognized by their red faces and light brown-grey fur. Watching the snow monkeys bathe up close is quite an experience, so don't forget your camera!

View our Japan tours featuring Snow Monkeys

Our japan tours will take you to the best winter festivals in the country, where you can admire giant ice sculptures and unique fairgrounds..

Believe it or not, some of the best festivals that attract millions of visitors each year are located in the coldest parts of Japan. We have arranged tours to travel to the Sapporo Snow Festival, Otaru Snow Light Path, Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival, Asahikawa Winter Festival, and the Sounkyo Ice Waterfall Festival. Experience seeing illuminated ice sculptures on one our tour packages.

View our Japan tours featuring Japan Winter Festivals

Join a tour that visits japan's largest dance festival, awa odori, and enjoy traditional music accompanied with lots of food in a lively celebration..

Attracting over 1.3 million visitors per year, Awa Odori is the largest dance festival in Japan. We have a Japan tour package showing you the best of Japan, including this famous dance festival. It is also called the "Fool's Dance", which originates from 400 years ago. Many instruments including taiko, shamisen, and flutes are accompanied with the dancers that parade through the city.

View our Japan tours featuring Awa Odori Dance Festival

Spend your japan vacation indulging in traditional japanese culture and stunning floats at the gion summer festival..

The Gion Matsuri is Kyoto’s largest annual festival and one of Japan's most famous. We have arranged Japan tour packages that include this 1100 year old celebration, which originally began as a religious ceremony dating back to 869. The main event occurs on July 17th and July 24th, where locals and visitors gather to view two extravagant procession parade floats.

View our Japan tours featuring Gion Summer Festival

Book a trip to japan that includes a taste of japanese history at the elegant and popular kyoto aoi festival..

Every May 15th, the Kyoto Aoi Festival features a large parade of over 500 people dressed in Heian Period (794-1185) styled clothing to illustrate a graceful procession. We provide several tours that highlight one of Kyoto's most celebrated festivals. The Kyoto Aoi Matsuri takes you back to the 10th century, where traditional makeup and impressive costumes can be appreciated.

View our Japan tours featuring Kyoto Aoi Festival

Admire thousands of ground cherry blossoms at the fuji shibazakura festival & takinoue koen park shibazakura festival during your japan tour..

Known as the ground cherry blossoms, our Shibazakura Festival tours will take you to attractions that are blanketed with vivid shibazakura. See the Fuji Shibazakura Festival, featuring over 800,000 spectacular moss phlox with the great Mt. Fuji in the background. Also visit Takinoue Koen Park, noteworthy for its hillside covered with 100,000 square meters of shibazakura.

View our Japan tours featuring Shibazakura Festivals

Take your japan tour to the majestic flower gardens at hitachi seaside park, widely known for its hillside of 4.5 million baby blue eye flowers..

Scientifically known as Nemophila, the largest collection of baby blue eye flowers can be seen at the Hitachi Seaside Park. There are over 4.5 million baby blue eyes blooming from mid-April to mid-May, referred as "Nemophila Harmony" during its annual bloom. The Hitachi Seaside Park features vast, gorgeous flower gardens of tulips, poppies, roses, kochia, and more.

View our Japan tours featuring Baby Blue Eye Flowers at Hitachi Seaside Park

Join the fiery celebration at tohoku's 3 great summer festivals during your japan trip..

Be keen on Tohoku's Three Great Summer Festivals all in one Japan tour package. These summer festivals known as Aomori Nebuta, Akita Kanto, and Sendai Tanabata are lively experiences you don't want to miss. Enjoy magnificent views of lantern-lit floats, high-spirited dancing, music performances, kanto skills, firework displays, thousands of colorful streamers, and more.

View our Japan tours featuring Tohoku 3 Great Summer Festivals

Top 12 places to visit in japan.

hokkaido region

1. Hokkaido

Enjoy a tour to japan in hokkaido, renowned for its flower fields and attractions unique to every season..

Hokkaido, Japan has a distinctive change of seasons that only adds to its beauty. The island is renowned for its lavender fields in the summer and winter festivals that attract millions of visitors every year. Our Japan tours to Hokkaido will take you to the flower fields in Furano, the atmospheric Otaru Canal, Hokkaido's biggest entertainment district in Susukino, and to Shiraoi to learn about the Ainu people of Hokkaido. A Japan trip to Hokkaido means trying various fresh foods at the famous Nijo Market, strolling through the heart of Sapporo in Odori Park, and stopping by Hokkaido's most famous hot spring resort in Noboribetsu. Hokkaido is proud to have its four distinct seasonal differences that include a number of events and acitivities each unique to the season. There is no other place like Hokkaido to enjoy your Japan vacation to the fullest.

Make your way to the Tohoku region to see the great Towada Lake, visit the prominent Zeuiganji Zen temple, and see one of Japan's three most scenic views during your Japan tour.

Tohoku is known for its great summer festivals, picturesque landscapes, and its long history of samurai. Predominantly mountainous, this region offers broad areas of natural surroundings. A Japan tour to Tohoku involves visiting must-see sites among its six prefectures. Tour to one of Japan's three most scenic views at Matsushina, Tohoku's famous Zuiganji Zen temple, and the lovely Towada Lake. Numerous castles and samurai homes reside in Tohoku, making it an appropriate place to visit and appreciate history. Tohoku is also a suitable backup option when cherry blossom viewing, since the blossoming period takes place a few weeks later than in Kyoto or Tokyo. We offer several tours to see the best of Tohoku in one Japan trip.

Dive into the fascinating world of Tokyo, where you will visit ancient landmarks and electrifying towns during your tour to Japan.

Populated by over 36 million people, Tokyo is the worlds largest city. It is a metropolis that offers a mixture of both futuristic and traditional qualities. We offer tours to Tokyo that take you to destinations such as the Meiji Shrine, the Tokyo Tower, and the Imperial Palace. Indulge in Japanese history at the interesting Edo-Tokyo Musuem. We have Japan tour packages that will also take you to a popular tourist attraction called Odaiba, a man made island that serves as a shopping and entertainment district. Admire Tokyo's oldest temple built in 645, the colorful Sensoji Temple, also known as the Asakusa Kannon Temple. Find yourself in the lively and colorful Shibuya, renowned for endless dining, shopping, and clubbing. Its trademark is a large intersection featured in a number of films and photos. A Japan trip is not complete without traveling to Japans most distinguished city.

Travel to an active volcano in Hakone and ride the scenic Hakone Ropeway on one of our Japan tour packages.

Located in the Kanagawa Prefecture, the town of Hakone is mostly a mountainous region part of the Fuji Hakone Izu National Park. Hakone is a famed holiday resort renowned for its variety of popular hot springs. On our Japan tours, you can enjoy a stunning view of Mt. Fuji in Hakone and its natural beauty. Our tours will also take you to Owakudani, a volcano with active steam vents, hot river valleys, and scenic trails. Enjoy a ride on the Hakone Ropeway, where you can view the active volcano zone and excellent views of Mt. Fuji on clear days. Hakone is a popular destination in Japan for travelers looking to enjoy their tour outside of Tokyo. Since Hakone is in the Kanagawa Prefecture, our Japan tour packages will also include the must-see sites in this region.

5. Mt. Fuji

Check out astonishing views of mt. fuji and all of its natural surroundings when you book a tour to japan..

Take a tour to the highest mountain in Japan, Mt. Fuji, an active volcano standing at 12,380 feet (3,776 meters). Mt. Fuji is not only famous for its majestic cone shape and impressive aura, but also being the subject for distinguished paintings, photos, and literature. It is recognized as an international famous symbol of Japan. Impressive views can be seen from Tokyo and Yokohama on clear days. On the other hand, cloudy days often block visibility of Mt. Fuji, so those who get to experience the clear view of the mountain are considered fortunate. Our Japan tour packages will take you to the Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station, the halfway point on the climb to Mt. Fuji. It is accessible almost any time of the year and is well developed. This is a popular sightseeing spot for thoroughly admiring the grand and awe-inspiring view of Mt. Fuji and its surroundings.

6. Takayama

Add a traditional touch to your japan tour by visiting rural destinations in takayama and its authentic, historical buildings..

Celebrate at one of Japan's three most beautiful festivals here in Takayama, the Takayama Festivals, held in both spring and autumn. Since Takayama is located in the Japanese Alps, it is preferred among travelers wishing to add a rural destination to their visit to Japan. Takayama has been referred as "Little Kyoto", due to its preserved historical structures and traditional atmosphere. It is also popularly known as Hida-Takayama to refrain from confusion with other places called Takayama. We offer Japan tours to Old Town, where you can view entire streets and structures dating back to the Edo Period (1600-1868). Continue your Japan trip to the Matsumoto Castle, also called "Crow Castle" due to its black exterior. Here you can admire a prime example of original Japanese wooden architecture. Take delight in sightseeing in Takayama on your Japan vacation.

7. Kanazawa

Tour to kanazawa if you wish to see one of japan's three great gardens and a well-preserved samurai district during your trip to japan..

Capital of the Ishikawa Prefecture, the eminent city of Kanazawa is known for its preserved Edo districts and other historical attractions. Since the construction of the Kanazawa Castle during the rule of powerful feudal lord Maeda Toshiie, the city has prospered with many cultural achievements. Visit one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan, the Kenrokuen Garden, during your tour to Japan. Its name translates to "Garden of the Six Sublimities", qualities that make up the perfect garden according to Chinese landscape theory. Here you can find Japan's oldest fountain and the two meter tall Kotojitoro Lantern, an icon of Kanazawa and Kenrokuen. Some of our tour packages even travel to Kanazawa's Samurai District. Upon arrival, you will catch sight of well-preserved buildings and the former living quarters of samurai. Tour to Japan to enjoy these attractions unique to Kanazawa.

Say hello to authentic Japanese culture by visiting Japan's most popular temples and shrines, beautiful parks and gardens, and the best summer festivals during a tour to Kyoto.

Kyoto is famous for its numerous Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines, and ravishing gardens. The city served as Japan's capital and was the residence of the Imperial family during 794 to 1868. During your tour to Kyoto, you will get to participate in sake tasting at the Gekkeikan Okura Sake Musuem, visit the famous tunnel of scarlet torii gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine, see the iconic Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavillion), and stroll through the city of geisha in Gion. Continue your trip to the former residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu at Nijo Castle, check out the noteworthy Kiyomizu Temple and its impressive wooden stage, and see what a traditional Zen garden looks like at the Tenryuji Temple. Experience three of Kyoto's world-famous festivals, including the Aoi-matsuri Festival, the Gion-matsuri Festival, and the Jidai-matsuri Festival. Tour to Kyoto for an unforgettable Japan experience.

Experience visiting the world's largest wooden building and Japan's biggest bronze statue of Buddha when you travel to Japan.

Located less than one hour away from Kyoto and Osaka, the city of Nara is one of Japan's most rewarding destinations. Nara is Japan's first permanent capital, and is second to Kyoto as a cultural legacy with eight Unesco World Heritage Sites. Under the rule of the Imperial family and aristocrats, many temples and shrines were built here, as well as the development of temple towns. Our tours include seeing one of Japan's most significant temples, the Todaiji Temple, home to the famous Daibutsu (Big Buddha). The temple's main hall (Daibutsuden) is the world's largest wooden building, which is where you can also find the giant bronze statue of Buddha. Your trip to Japan will also give you the opportunity to visit the popular Deer Park nearby the temple, filled with over 1,000 deer you can greet and feed. Choose one of our Japan tour packages to experience Nara's historic treasures.

10. Hiroshima

Travel to the peace memorial park for an awakening experience about war and world peace, as well as the famed "floating" torri gate on the beautiful miyajima island, only in hiroshima..

Hiroshima is located in the Chugoku Region, a major city that is home to over a million residents. After the first atomic bomb dropped, there were predictions that the city would be uninhabitable. However, great endeavors were taken to rebuild Hiroshima and the speculations were proved wrong. During your Japan tour, you can visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and the Atomic Bomb Dome (Genbaku Dome), a must-see exhibition and eye opening experience. You can visit these landmarks of world history at Peace Memorial Park, located in the center of the city. Our Japan tour packages also take you to Itsukushima-jinja, a Shinto shrine located on Miyajima Island. It is famous for its "floating" torii gate and is inscribed as a World Cultural Heritage Site and one of Japan's three most scenic places. Don't miss out on a remarkable tour to Hiroshima.

11. Shikoku

Journey to shikoku during your japan vacation for a tour full of remarkable sites and impressive coastal views, such as the incredibly scenic drive along the great seto bridge and the shimanami kaido toll road..

Shikoku is home to the Shikoku pilgrimage route, which includes 88 temples and other sacred sites. Shikoku offers many historic locations, breathtaking spots in nature, and traditional festivals. Here on your tour to Japan, you can enjoy scenic views from the Great Seto Bridge and the Shimanami Kaido, passing six small islands to get to Shikoku. Shimanami Kaido is renowned for its beautiful drive along its picturesque toll road. Take a pleasant stroll through Shikoku Mura Village and experience an awe-inspiring masterpiece of Japanese landscape at Ritsurin Park, featuring ponds, pavilions, and a Mt. Shuin backdrop. Shikoku may be the smallest main island of Japan, but offers many spectacular attractions to experience.

Explore Kyushu during your tour to Japan, where you'll wander through an abandoned island known as Gunkanjima, and visit the site of legend where the Shinto Sun Goddess hid herself in a cave.

Kyushu is the third largest main island of Japan and offers significant landmarks, natural beauty, and vibrant cities. Our Japan tour packages will take you to the best things to see and do in Kyushu. Take a trip to Gunkanjima, translating to "battleship island", a small and abandoned coal mine with the highest recorded population density in the world. You will also visit Glover Garden, an open-air exhibit featuring mansions of former Western residents in Nagasaki. Tour to Takachiho, a town pervaded with Japanese mythology. There you can visit the supposed site of legend of the Sun Goddess Amaterasu, where she hid in a cave distraught from her brother's cruel pranks, causing other gods and goddesses to attempt to lure her out. Takachiho is a "power spot" profound with spiritual energy and religious importance. Nearby, you can see a cascading waterfall at the Takachiho Gorge.

media read more

Though it is possible to do a cherry blossom trip on your own, if you want to see multiple sites and get more out of the trip, I’d suggest a tour. It is much easier to navigate in these rural areas that off the English speaking tourist path when……

Testimonial read more

Testimonials

My husband, Daniel Levine and myself (Cherilyn Brunetti) just returned from our tour which started in Osaka on July 3 and ended in Tokyo on July 8. It was our first trip to Japan and we had a wonderful experience. I credit our tour guide, Bil……

Cherry blossoms in Japan read more

Japan Cherry Blossom Guide

Cherry blossoms in Japan have been a major attraction for tourists. The most common question people ask is “when is the cherry blossom season?” It is an easy yet difficult answer because it depends on the area we are talking about.

Autumn Leaves Guide read more

Japan Autumn Leaves Guide

Autumn leaves in Japan are almost as popular as the cherry blossom season. Kōyō is the Japanese word for autumn leaves. Kōyō and momiji (maple leaves) use the same kanji and has been that way since the Heian Period.

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best tour company for japan

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Best of Japan

More than any other country, the Japanese have managed to integrate ancient traditions and bleeding-edge technology harmoniously into their daily lives. With the perfect mix of new and old and our most popular itinerary, this well-rounded tour has something for everyone. In this excellent introduction to the Best of Japan, you won’t miss anything the first-time visitor to Japan should see.

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Tour Details

In the Best of Japan tour, our most popular itinerary, you’ll enjoy a colorful mix of large cities like Tokyo and Osaka, quaint and traditional Takayama, the ambiance and solitude of Miyajima Island, the religious center of Koya-san, the ancient shrines and temples of Kyoto, the testament to peace of Hiroshima, the natural beauty of Hakone, the thermally-heated mineral water baths at an onsen and much, much more.

You’ll stay overnight at a mountaintop Buddhist temple where Buddhist monks will serve you meals of shojin ryori (the traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine), and you will attend prayer services at the temple early the next morning. Climb to the top of a samurai castle, participate in a tea ceremony, stroll through farmer’s markets, meet a “maiko” (geisha-in-training) face-to-face, see where the geisha live and work, stay overnight on beautiful and quiet Miyajima Island, admire sacred Mt. Fuji (weather permitting), the icon of Japan and enjoy three gourmet Kaiseki-style dinners and one shojin-ryori Buddhist vegetarian meal, and much, much more.

Tour Highlights

  • Overnight at Buddhist temple and morning prayer service
  • “Meet a Maiko” session (a Maiko is a Geisha in training)
  • Overnight on Miyajima Island
  • Overnight at Onsen with naturally heated mineral waters
  • Tea Ceremony
  • Three “Kaiseki” style dinners
  • 3 Shojin-ryori meals (Buddhist vegetarian)
  • Seven separate rides on a Shinkansen (bullet train)
  • Five overnights at a Japanese-style ryokan

Tour Inclusions

  • Travel Guard Gold Policy (for American tour members only)
  • 14 Day JR Rail Pass
  • Meeting service at the arrival airport
  • Sending service to the appropriate train station
  • Baggage transfer from city to city
  • Electronic version of Tour Handbook and Japanese History

Tour Exclusions

  • Airfare is NOT included.
  • A printed itinerary is not included
  • Alcoholic beverages, soft drinks and desserts are NOT included

best tour company for japan

Tour Destinations

  • Miyajima Island
  • Nara (Optional)

Day 1 Arrive in Tokyo

After clearing customs and immigration, you will be met at Tokyo’s Narita Airport by a Samurai Tours meeting staff member. They will then purchase a limousine bus ticket for you and help you board the bus to the hotel. After checking in, the evening is free. No meals are included.

Travel: 1-1/2 Hours; Walking: Light

Day 2 Tokyo – Tokyo Skytree, Ginza, Asakusa

After breakfast, you will start the day with a Welcome/Orientation meeting. Next, the licensed, English-speaking guide will escort you to the Tokyo Skytree for a birds-eye view of Tokyo. Next we will travel to the nearby Asakusa area. Here we will tour the Nakamise-dori, Senso-ji Buddhist Temple and the Asakusa Shrine where you will learn about Buddhist and Shinto Japanese religious practices. Afterwards, we will travel to the famous Ginza district. The Ginza is recognized by many as one of the most luxurious shopping districts in the world, attracting visitors and regulars alike from across the globe. We will return to the accommodations, where we will go through the train tickets for the rest of the tour. Breakfast at the accommodations and lunch at a local restaurant included.

Travel: 1 Hours; Walking: Heavy

Day 3 Free Day in Tokyo

Today is a free day to enjoy the world-class city of Tokyo. Go shopping for that perfect souvenir, visit the Meiji Shrine dedicated to the Japanese emperor of the 19th century, or wander through the trendy Shibuya or Harajuku districts where you will more than likely see interesting and far-out fashions.

Optional Morning Market Tour

¥ 14,702 (You must pre-register before arriving in Japan.) We will be visiting the outer market of Tsukiji Market. We will wander through many of the shops selling numerous items needed for Japanese cooking. Many professionals visit Tsukiji Outer market to purchase ingredients and cooking tools. You can see many authentic tools and try various foods easily while browsing the market. After this, we will go to a sushi restaurant near the market for a sushi lunch. After lunch, we will travel the short distance by train to Shibuya. Shibuya is a center for youth fashion and culture, and its streets are the birthplace of many of Japan’s fashion and entertainment trends. After a short explanation of the Shibuya area and the hotspots, the guide will give you a map and allow you to have some free time in Shibuya. Make sure to visit the Shibuya Crossing, the busiest pedestrian crossing in the world. The intersection is heavily decorated by neon advertisements and giant video screens and gets flooded by pedestrians each time the crossing light turns green, making it a popular photo and movie filming spot. You can return to the hotel with the guide or stay in Shibuya and return on your own. Lunch is included.

Optional Shibuya Afternoon Tour

¥ 11,027 (You must pre-register before arriving in Japan.) After lunch, we will travel the short distance by train to Shibuya. Shibuya is a center for youth fashion and culture, and its streets are the birthplace of many of Japan’s fashion and entertainment trends. After a short explanation of the Shibuya area and the hotspots, the guide will give you a map and allow you to have some free time in Shibuya. Make sure to visit the Shibuya Crossing, the busiest pedestrian crossing in the world. The intersection is heavily decorated by neon advertisements and giant video screens and gets flooded by pedestrians each time the crossing light turns green, making it a popular photo and movie filming spot. You can return to the hotel with the guide or stay in Shibuya and return on your own.

Optional Tour – Yakatabune Dinner Cruise

¥ 18,378 (You must pre-register before arriving in Japan.) Tour the Tokyo bay while relaxing with dinner and drinks! Sites include Rainbow Bridge, Odaiba and Tokyo Skyline from Tokyo Bay all lit up at night. Dinner includes sashimi and tempura or vegetarian kaiseki dinner with all-you-can-drink beer, sake, shochu, plum wine, whiskey, white wine, red wine, coffee, tea, and soft drinks. We will provide an escort to the port, but you will travel from the port on your own with our guidance, no guide included.

Optional Tour – Sumo (Seasonal Departures: January, May and September)

¥ 19,701 per person for Arena Section C, $150 per person for Arena Section B, $190 per person for Arena Section A (You must pre-register for the afternoon tour before arriving in Japan.) Meet with the guide in the lobby of the ryokan at 15:00, and travel by subway and JR train (please be sure to bring your rail passes) to the Ryogoku district of Tokyo where you will attend a sumo tournament. An English audio guide which will explain what is happening (the audio broadcast is actually the English feed from NHK, the public broadcasting television channel in Japan). Of course, the guide will also be able to help explain what is happening. The tournament will finish sometime around 18:00, and the guide will escort you back to the ryokan by train and subway. Guide, English audio guide, tournament ticket, and transportation included.

Day 4 Travel to Hakone; Tour Hakone - Hakone Ropeway, Hakone Lake Ashi Sightseeing Boats; Overnight at Hakone Yumoto Onsen

Before leaving Tokyo, you will prepare your luggage to be transferred to Takayama, and will be traveling to Hakone and Takayama with an overnight bag only. You will prepare your overnight bag for 2 days and 1 night. After breakfast, we will travel by Shinkansen (bullet train) to Hakone Yumoto Onsen, where we will stay overnight. Hakone is famous for its natural beauty and the view of nearby Mt. Fuji (weather permitting). We will be taking many different forms of transportation (electric train, funicular, gondola and bus) around Hakone including the Hakone Sightseeing Boats on Lake Ashi. In good weather, you can get an excellent view of Mount Fuji, and enjoy Hakone’s rich scenery reflected on the lake’s calm surface. After returning to Hakone Yumoto and picking up our overnight bags, we will check into the ryokan. Here you can enjoy the thermally-heated mineral baths at the ryokan. Breakfast at the hotel, lunch at a local Japanese restaurant and dinner at the ryokan are included.

PLEASE NOTE: High winds and/or heavy rain can, and will often cause cessation of services on the Sightseeing Boat cruise and/or ropeway. Should this occur, we will not be able to operate the itinerary as listed above, and will replace it with the best possible alternative given the weather conditions. Also, in the case of bad weather, even if the boats are still operating, we may alter the itinerary for your comfort and safety as Mt. Fuji will more than likely not be visible anyway.

Travel: 1 Hours; Walking: Light

Day 5 Travel to Takayama

After checking out, we will continue by Shinkansen (bullet train) and express train to the city of Takayama. Takayama, in the middle of the Japan Alps, with its traditional inns, shops, and sake breweries, has managed to retain its traditional charm. Breakfast at the ryokan and a Kaiseki-style dinner will be served at the ryokan in the evening.

Travel: 5 Hours; Walking: Light

Day 6 Takayama – Miyagawa Morning Market, Jinyamae Morning Market, Takayama Jinya, San-machi-suji District, Free Afternoon

This morning we stroll through the farmer’s market, sampling the numerous options from vegetable stands and stalls selling herbs, pickles, and souvenirs. After that, we tour the Takayama-jinya, the governing office of Takayama and the surrounding area since the early 17th century. The guide will take you to the San-machi-suji district, consisting of merchant homes dating back to the 16th century. From here the rest of the day is free to roam and explore Takayama. Visit the many temples, shrines and museums, rummage through antique shops, or relax at one of the sake breweries. The evening is free to enjoy one of the many nearby Hida Beef restaurants. (Hida Beef is the same thing as the more famous Kobe Beef.) Breakfast at the ryokan is included.

Optional Tour – Takayama

¥ 11,027 (Or 10,000 Yen in Japan.) After finishing the scheduled tour of Takayama at the Takayama Jinya, the guide will take you on a tour of the San-machi-suji District. Lined with merchant homes, sake breweries and craftsmen’s workshops, it was the center of the old town and today it still retains its quaint atmosphere. After enjoying lunch, we will continue to Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine and Yatai Kaikan. Sakurayama Hachiman is the oldest shrine in Takayama and is beautifully constructed in unpainted wood design. Sakurayama Hachiman also sponsors the popular Takayama Festival. On our next stop to Yatai Kaikan, you will get to take an up-close look at the traditional and spectacular hand-carved floats that are displayed during the Takayama Festival.

Travel: TBD; Walking: Medium

Day 7 Travel to Koya-san; Overnight at a Buddhist Temple

We will travel to Koya-san with overnight bags only. The rest of the luggage will be delivered to our hotel in Osaka where we will be staying the following night. You will need to prepare your overnight bags for 2 days and 1 night. We board an express train and Shinkansen bound for Osaka, and continue to Koya-san by subway, train and funicular. Koya-san is the world headquarters of the Shingon school of Esoteric Buddhism. Kobo Daishi, considered by many to be the most influential religious person in Japanese history, established a religious community here in the year 816. After checking into our shukubo (Buddhist temple lodging), you are free to roam and visit one of the 110 temples in the area or just rest in the garden at the shukubo. Your dinner of shojin-ryori (traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine – no meat, fish, onions or garlic) will be served by the Buddhist Monks from the temple. Breakfast at the ryokan and shojin-ryori dinner at the temple are included.

Travel: 7 Hours; Walking: Light

Day 8 Koya-san – Morning Prayer Service, Okunoin Cemetery and Temple, Garan Temple Complex; Travel to Osaka

Very early in the morning, we attend o-inori (Buddhist prayer service). Afterwards, a shojin-ryori breakfast is served. Following this meal, we wander through the huge cemetery leading up to the Okuno-in temple. Kobo Daishi is buried at this temple, and many Japanese still believe that Kobo Daishi is not dead, but merely in a very advanced state of meditation, waiting to awaken at the appropriate time. After touring the Garan Temple complex, we will stop for a Shojin-ryori lunch. After lunch we will return to the Namba Station the same way we came to Koyasan. After returning to Osaka and picking up our luggage and checking into our hotel, the evening is free to visit the Dotombori-dori and the Namba Districts (South Osaka), the nearby nightlife and restaurant district. While there, you can visit the Ebisu-bashi bridge, which will make you feel like you stepped into the movie “Blade Runner.” Shojin-ryori breakfast at the temple and Shojin-ryori lunch at a local restaurant are included.

Optional Tour – Osaka

¥ 11,027 While there are not a lot of sightseeing options in Osaka, the best way to experience Osaka is to simply explore the city on foot. The numerous large, neon signs and the hawkers and pachinko parlors of the area combine to create an audio-visual overload. The tour will include Doguyasuji, a street in the Namba District lined with restaurant supply stores (including stores selling the plastic food models you see everywhere in Japan). In the Dotombori District, you will visit the Hozenji Temple and Yokocho, an area that retains an old-time atmosphere and where so many locals come to pour water over the temple s statues, they are now covered in moss. In contrast, you will also visit the Ebisubashi Bridge next to Dotombori Street. With its towering neon signs, a visit to the Ebisubashi Bridge is like stepping into the movie Bladerunner. The walking tour will begin with an Okonomiyaki dinner.

Travel: 3 Hours; Walking: Heavy

Day 9 Travel to Himeji; Tour Himeji - Himeji Castle, Kokoen Garden; Travel to Miyajima Island

Before leaving in the morning you will need to prepare your overnight bag for 3 days/2 nights and bring it with you to the lobby of the hotel. We will then travel by subway and Shinkansen to the city of Himeji. Here we will visit Himeji Castle. Built about 400 years ago, Himeji Castle is one of the largest and oldest original castles, and is one of only four castles designated as a national treasure and is also designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We will continue on to Hiroshima by Shinkansen, where you will eat your bento box lunch previously purchased, and then a local train to the harbor where we will board a ferry for Miyajima Island. Miyajima Island is said by the Japanese to be one of the top three scenic places of Japan. The evening is free to enjoy the solitude and ambiance of the island after all of the day-trippers head back to the mainland. Breakfast, bento box lunch and kaiseki dinner at the ryokan included.

Travel: 3 Hours; Walking: Medium

Day 10 Miyajima Island – Free Day

The entire day is free to enjoy and relax in the beauty and ambiance of Miyajima Island: ride the cable car to the top of the mountain on Miyajima Island, or visit the Itsukushima-jinja shrine which was built in its present form in 1168. Or just stroll around the island while enjoying grilled oysters and momiji manju (a popular Japanese confection), the island’s specialty. Breakfast and kaiseki dinner at the ryokan included.

Travel: TBD; Walking: TBD

Day 11 Travel to Hiroshima; Tour Hiroshima – Peace Park and Museum; Travel to Kyoto

After taking the ferry and local train back to Hiroshima, we tour the Peace Memorial Museum and the Peace Memorial Park, which are both sobering monuments to the tragic events on August 6, 1945. Afterwards, we are off to Kyoto via the Shinkansen. Once in Kyoto, we pick up our luggage and check into our ryokan, where we stay for the remainder of the tour. Breakfast at the ryokan is included.

Day 12 Kyoto – Nijo Castle, Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion), Nishiki Koji, Cultural Afternoon: Tea Ceremony

After breakfast, we will start the day at the Nijo Castle. Built in 1603, it was the Kyoto home of Tokugawa Ieayasu, the first Tokugawa Shogun. The ostentatious style of construction was intended as a demonstration of Ieyasu’s prestige, and to signal the demise of the emperor’s power. The finest artists of the day filled the castle with delicate transom woodcarvings and paintings by the Kano School on sliding doors. One of the castle’s most intriguing features is the so-called “nightingale” floors. To protect the Shogun from real or imagined enemies, these floorboards creak when stepped on. Next we will visit Kinkaku-ji. Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is one of Kyoto’s, as well as Japan’s, most recognizable attractions. The gleaming building covered in gold leaf seems to float on the aptly named Mirror Pond, especially on a sunny day. After lunch you will have some free time at Nishiki Koji. Nishiki Koji is a narrow, five block long shopping street lined by more than one hundred shops and restaurants. Known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen”, this lively retail market specializes in all things food related, like fresh seafood, produce, knives and cookware, and is a great place to find seasonal foods and Kyoto specialties, such as Japanese sweets, pickles, dried seafood and sushi. Following this free time, we will participate in an authentic tea ceremony. The regimented discipline of the tea ceremony has been practiced for more than 400 years, and at one time was considered mandatory for Samurai as an aid to train the mind. Later, we will return to the ryokan. Breakfast at the ryokan and lunch at a local restaurant included.

Day 13 Fushimi – Fushimi Inari Shrine; Kyoto - Higashiyama District, Yasaka Shrine, Gion Geisha District, Meet a Maiko Session

Before leaving for the day, you will need to prepare your main luggage to be sent forward to the airport. If you would prefer to keep your luggage, you can do so. If you will be sending the luggage, you will need to keep enough items for three days/two nights. The luggage transfer forms will have been provided to you prior to this day, and you are responsible for paying for this transfer. After breakfast, we are off by train to the nearby city of Fushimi, one of the largest sake producing regions of Japan. Here we will visit the Fushimi Inari shrine. This Shinto Shrine, established in the 8th century, is famous for the long tunnels of vermilion torii gates straddling a network of trails leading to the top of the heavily forested Mt. Inari. We will then travel to the Higashiyama District. This area of narrow, cobblestone alleys with its temples, shrines, numerous shops and restaurants is truly enjoyable and relaxing. We will stop for lunch in the Higashiyama District. We will then visit the Yasaka Shrine, also known as the Gion Shrine. This shrine, built over 1350 years ago, is one of the most famous shrines in Kyoto. The shrine’s main hall combines the honden (inner sanctuary) and haiden (offering hall) into a single building. Next, we will walk to the famous Gion Geisha District. Here, you will see where the Geiko (in Kyoto they call themselves Geiko, not Geisha) and Maiko live and work. You may even see one on their way to one of their appointments. Next, we will have an opportunity to meet with a Maiko. The Maiko will perform a short dance, answer questions. and pose for photos with you. Breakfast at the ryokan and lunch at a Japanese restaurant are included.

Day 14 Kyoto – Free Day, Sayonora Dinner

The morning and afternoon are free. In the afternoon, we will meet back at the ryokan and travel to the Gion Geisha district. Here, in a teahouse, we will attend a Meet a Maiko session. (A Maiko is a Geisha in training.) She will perform a short dance, answer any of your questions and pose for pictures with you. After this we will have a walking tour of the Gion Geisha district. Here you will see where the Geisha and Maiko live and work. We may even see one on their way to their appointments. After this we will enjoy our Sayonara Dinner. Breakfast at the ryokan and dinner at a local Japanese restaurant included.

Optional Tour – Nara

¥ 16,907 We will begin the day traveling by train to the nearby city of Nara. Nara was the original capital of Japan in the 8th century before it was moved to Kyoto. We will start our tour of Nara by walking through the heavily forested Nara Park. Here, we will find numerous temples and shrines hidden among the trees. Along the way, you can also fee the famous Nara deer. They have been since the 7th century, and roam freely protected by Buddhist traditions. At the far end of Nara Park, we will find Todaiji. Originally built in 752, the main hall is the world’s largest wooden building, despite the fact that the current building, built in 1692, is only two-thirds the size of the original building. Inside the building is Japan’s largest bronze statue of Buddha (it is almost 50 feet tall). We will finish our tour of Nara at Kofukuji temple. Kofukuji temple was the family temple of the Fujiwara family, one of the most powerful families in Japan during the Heian period. This temple was created in 710, the same year Nara was made the capital of Japan. At its height during the reign of the Fujiwara family, there were more than 150 buildings on the temple grounds.

Travel: 1/2 Hours; Walking: Medium

Day 15 Return Home

It’s time to say “sayonara” (Goodbye). The group will depart at 8:00 am unless we have determined you need to leave earlier (in which case you will not be provided sending service). You will be escorted to the Kyoto train station, where you will return on your own to Tokyo’s Narita airport, Tokyo’s Haneda airport or Osaka’s Kansai airport by train. (If you are flying out of Narita or Haneda Airport, be sure to schedule a flight after 15:00 to allow yourself enough time to catch your flight.)

Retrieve your main luggage in the departure lobby of the airport (map in appendix)

Travel: 3 Hours; Walking: Light

Walking level descriptions: Light – 0 to 2 miles on level ground Medium – 2 to 4 miles on level ground or 0 to 2 miles on hilly ground Heavy – 4 to 6 miles on level ground or 2 to 4 miles on hilly ground

Dates & Pricing

best tour company for japan

Our tours and tour itineraries are the best, but as the saying goes, “you can’t make everyone happy all of the time”. There may a specific destination or a specific experience you may want to include in your visit to Japan that may not be included your tour. Choose from our Add On tours to include your interests and make your Japan tour even better.

Click HERE to view all of the Add-On Tours.

Or, use the arrows to scroll though the recommended list of Add-On Tours for this tour. 

best tour company for japan

  • Local, licensed, English-speaking, Japanese guides
  • For residents of the following states please click here for your available plan. FL, KS, MN, MO, MT, NY, and WA
  • For all other states and the District of Columbia click here
  • Up to 69 – $0
  • 70-74 – $100
  • 75-79 – $200
  • 80-84 – $350
  • Travel Insurance Opt-Out:  If you would prefer to opt out of the travel insurance, please note this at the time of registration. You will receive a $100 credit per person, which will be reflected on your invoice. In the event that you would need to cancel your tour, cancellation penalties may apply. See the  Terms and Conditions  page for the Cancellation Fees Schedule.
  • Reserved seat train tickets where applicable
  • The meeting service will meet you at the airport and provide you a transfer to the ryokan in Tokyo
  • Meeting service can only be provided between 6am and 9pm. If you arrive at a time outside of these hours, we will need to provide alternative directions for you to get to the ryokan on your own.
  • The sending service will escort you to the Kyoto train station and make sure you board the correct train. The sending service will not accompany you to the airport.

For those requiring meeting or sending services on other than the scheduled arrival/departure dates, there will be a $100 fee for the meeting service from the airport into Tokyo or the sending service to the Kyoto train station.)

  • Lodging for 14 nights in Japanese-style ryokans or western-style hotels
  • Japanese-style or Western-style breakfast every morning (Please Note: Some ryokans offer Japanese breakfasts only.)
  • Six Japanese-style lunches
  • Six Japanese-style dinners (including 3 gourmet kaiseki dinners at the ryokans, and a shojin-ryori – traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine – dinner at a Buddhist temple)
  • The appropriate amount of free time to allow you to explore and discover your own personal Japan.
  • All transportation costs when traveling with the group. (Transportation costs during scheduled free times are the tour member’s responsibility.)
  • Admission fees to the destinations and activities listed in the Tour Highlights column on the right.   (Itinerary specifics subject to change)
  • Electronic version of itinerary
  • Use of audio tour guide system (must provide own headphones)
  • Sayonara dinner at the end of the tour
  • Baggage transfer  from the ryokan in Tokyo to the ryokan in Takayama (one bag only)
  • Baggage transfer  from the ryokan in Takayama to the ryokan in Osaka (one bag only)
  • Baggage transfer  from the ryokan in Osaka to the ryokan in Kyoto (one bag only)

Each tour member receives an electronic copy of our tour handbook. This handbook is full of tips and suggestions taken from our Japan travel experiences that allow you to better plan and prepare for your trip, and therefore enjoy your trip even more. The tips and suggestions included cover everything from how to save while exchanging money, what to pack, some basic Japanese-language tips, general etiquette do’s-and-don’ts, ryokan customs, etc.

best tour company for japan

Wayne Tanaka

Great tour, had a wonderful time.

best tour company for japan

Jan C Tanaka

Only because I am getting older and out of shape, I\’m not sure I could do this tour again in a year or two. But overall experience in Japan was lovely.

best tour company for japan

Joyce Hansel

When you choose a tour vs self directed travel, you concede some flexibility and control for a pre-planned agenda and a lot of the work taken out of it. I felt that Samurai offered the best itinerary for us in the time we had. It gave us a good taste of Japan.

best tour company for japan

Chris Jaser

Overall this tour made our first trip to Japan a life changing event. As someone who was a bit concern about being on a tour and not being able to fully experience Japan, this tour eased those concerns very quickly. I felt like I could really enjoy Japan without having to worry about the logistics of how do we get to the places we want to visit, booking our hotels and getting on the right transportation. Samurai Tours went above and beyond what we expected and we are already looking to plan another trip to Japan soon. Hopefully through Samurai Tours again.

best tour company for japan

Donald Carpenetti

Loved it. My son and I have already discussed some of the other tours you offer.

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Inspired By Maps

Inspiring Itinerary Ideas From The Best Japan Tour Companies

Posted on Last updated: August 6, 2021

Categories Japan

Inspiring Itinerary Ideas From The Best Japan Tour Companies

Expert travel storyteller Jordan Adkins, founder of InspiredByMaps.com, brings a decade of adventures across 101 countries and 450+ UNESCO sites into rich, off-the-beaten-path narratives, melding ecological expertise with genuine, seasoned travel insights.

A country of fascinating contrasts, where ancient traditions exist in unison with fast-paced modern life, the ‘Land of the Rising Sun’ is one of our favorite travel destinations.

Connect with a traditional way of life in Kyoto , see the iconic cityscape of Tokyo , the insanity that is the robot restaurant  or incredible hiking, quiet temples, serene nature and imperial spa-resort towns like Nasu – all of which can be found in the mountains that make up over two-thirds of the country.

There are myriad options for delicious and unusual food, 24-hour drinking in the cities and plenty of history to discover.

That’s before we even start on the spectacular cherry blossom in spring time! To really get the best of it, we couldn’t recommend an organized tour more.

It’s an ideal way to see Japan.

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Why you ask are tours such a good option for exploring Japan? Because there are so many hidden treasures to find in the country and a tour is the way to help you find them. Expert tour guides are the best people to help you find out more about the places you visit because they know them so well and are excited to tell you more about them.

It’s also a great opportunity to get to know other people. Tours are always sociable, full of people who love traveling as much as you do. You’ll be amazed by how many people you stay in touch with, still reminiscing about your trip to Japan.

So this all sounds great, right? Before you dive straight in with both feet, remember it’s important to choose the right tour company. You want something staffed with people who know their stuff, who are passionate and keen to help you experience more.

Let’s look at some of the best Japan tour companies we’ve come across.

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Inspiring Itinerary Ideas From The Best Japan Tour Companies 🇯🇵

Page Contents

G Adventures: Epic Japan

  • One Life Adventures: Japan
  • Intrepid Travel: Land of the Rising Sun

Exodus Travel: Ancient and Modern Japan

Tucan travel: southern japan.

This great tour is all about exploring Japan without it costing the Earth and getting to know other adventurers along the way. From Tokyo to Osaka you’ll experience some of the highlights of both modern-day and traditional Japan, and with an age range of 18 to 39 you know that everyone you meet will be on your wavelength.

It’s a train and rail tour so you can get to know Japan the way locals would – no being shut away on coaches here! Start by exploring the buzzing capital city where you’ve got plenty to check out, from Shibuya Crossing to Asakusa shrine; or you can just café hop!

From here you’ll head to the old town of Takayama via bullet train, spending a night here before going to the historic city of Kyoto. Here you’ll experience plenty of culture with myriad temples and teahouses.

Japan Fox Shire

Hiroshima offers you more history in the form of the sobering Peace Park, while the sacred island of Miyajima is an opportunity for an outdoors hike. You’ll end in foodie paradise Osaka.  It seems incredible that you can pack so much into 11 days, but the tour feels chilled, with plenty of independent exploration time.

The real value is in the expert, Japanese-speaking guides who make transport so much easier and can tell you lots about the places you visit. Definitely a small group tour for those who want to get to know Japan but are on a budget!

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One Life Adventures : Japan

As the name might suggest, One Life Adventures is one of the best Japan tour companies because it’s definitely aimed at those of us who want to make the most of our one life by soaking up as much adventure as we can.

This option also starts in Tokyo and ends in Osaka, but manages to squeeze in even more to 10 days. It’s an adventure option and is really one of the best ways to get a taste of Japan and its incredibly diverse culture. Highlights include a sushi making class in Tokyo and a trip to the famously weird and wonderful Robot Restaurant ; in Kyoto, you’ll have the option to see a Geisha performance.

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If you’re more into the outdoors, then you’ll love the trip to see the iconic Mount Fuji and the bamboo forest in the Arashiyama district, not to mention the climb up Monkey Mountain. Sure, there are some early mornings, but they’re worth it to see places without the crowds.

There are also some late nights, especially the last night with an all-you-can-drink karaoke evening – this is best left to the last night so you’ll have bonded with fellow 18 to 39-year-olds before singing in front of them!

The guides are patient and fun-loving, always happy to help you experience more. The result is a memorable travel experience that will leave you wanting even more.

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Intrepid Travel : Land of the Rising Sun

If you want a more in-depth cultural tour, then this Intrepid Travel one is a great choice for you. It’s both longer and more wide-ranging than the ones we’ve looked at so far, with an age range from 15 to 99 and a length of 13 days.

We love this because you’ve got more time to explore the country and you’ll get to meet a diverse group of people.

You’ll visit six destinations in almost 2 weeks and the different things you see will astound you. From the glorious chaos of Tokyo to the spectacular temples of Kyoto, the tour is basically highlights from beginning to end! There’s a great balance between city and country.

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We love that there’s time to spend in the lake and mountain region of Hakone, where you can go hiking in the national park or visit boiling sulfur springs.

There are plenty of opportunities to taste Japanese cuisine, from local dishes in a Ryokan (a traditional inn) in Takayama to seasonal vegetables in high-altitude markets. You’ll also learn more about Japanese history, both modern and looking further back.

Intrepid travel believes that the important thing is participants share a positive attitude rather than age and the guides are all genuinely excited about helping travelers experience the country in the best way possible.

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With a whopping 12 destinations in 14 days, this whistle-stop tour does exactly what the name says it will: gives travelers an exhilarating taste of both ancient and modern Japan. One of the best Japan tour companies, Exodus Travel caters to 16 to 80-year-olds and combines well-planned itineraries with enthusiastic tour guides.

Every moment in Japan is a surprise and Exodus helps you navigate this to find the delight in the discovery. This tour starts in Kyoto and ends in Tokyo; along the way you’ll discover rarely-seen mountain castles and spas, soothing shrines and UNESCO temples.

Moments like seeing the red gates of Totukuji temple in Kyoto wind up the hill, or witnessing the floating tori (Shinto gate) on the island of Miyajima, are moments that you will never forget.

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One of the things we love about this tour is that it takes you off the beaten track. Visiting a medieval village, Tsumago, enroute from Takayama to Matsumoto is a chance to see what a post town in the Edo period would have been like. Matsumoto castle itself is another high point (quite literally, with its 6-story stronghold!).

After experiencing some of Japans history, you’ll finish up in the futuristic cityscape of Tokyo, where you can visit some of the quirkier places the city has to offer – Cat Café, anyone? – before saying goodbye to your fellow adventurers with a wild karaoke night.

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This is very much a tour of discovery, taking in some of the busiest and the most peaceful places in this multifaceted country. It’s another Japan tour company that wants to include as many people as possible with an age range from 18 to 65.

We love that this tour feels like it moves at a slower pace even with 6 destinations in 10 days. Expert and enthusiastic guides will introduce you to places that you might not discover if you were on your own. Tucan Travel promises to help you see the evolution of the country, from the ancient imperial palaces of Kyoto to a moving visit to the Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima to the fast-paced modernity of Tokyo.

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Other points of interest include the port city of Nagasaki, another place where the horror of war and a commitment to peace is memorialized; the UNESCO-protected Kamo Shrines in Kyoto and the beach and hot springs (‘onsens’) in Fukuoka.

This adventurous tour is the best way to see that Japan is more than just the clichés. Sure, you’ll see the neon lights of Tokyo and the teahouses of Kyoto, but you’ll also get to see the often-overlooked outdoor scenery and aspects of daily life in Japan. One of the best Japan tour companies, Tucan Travel is all about adventure and passion – so, enjoy!

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Wapiti Travel

How to choose the best Japan tour package

By: Author Kris

Posted on Last updated: December 6, 2023

Planning is often the most difficult and least enjoyable part of an overseas trip. Not only deciding what to see and do but when, how, and in what order can be a very complicated process, especially if you’re going to a foreign country.

The good news is that there is a way to avoid all the fuss.

By booking a Japan tour package you entrust the planning to a team that knows the country like the back of their hand. You can be sure to be taken to all of the best sights while being entertained by your guide with interesting details and fun facts.

Here we have some of the best Japan tour packages, the best tours to experience Japan without all the headaches of creating a personal itinerary.

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Since in most cases you have to arrange your own flights and airport transfers , we have included information about this at the end of the article .

This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission (for which we are deeply grateful) at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

Best Japan tours

In this article we focus on tours of 8 days or longer. Check out these two articles for shorter options:

Best 5-day Japan Tour Packages &#8594

Best 7-day Japan Tour Packages &#8594

Changed your mind?  If you want to explore Japan Indepently we have many example itineraries.  Here’s a 5-day itinerary and we have many more for different trip durations .

Best 10-day Japan tour guide packages

While 5 and 7-day Japan tours are popular choices, especially for first-time visitors, a 10-day Japan package tour is in my opinion the ideal length for a first visit.

If you have the time I still recommend a 2-week or 3-week visit but 10 days is ideal for those who are short on time to see and experience more of Japan.

It offers a more in-depth experience, and I know that not everyone is bothered by this as much as I do, but it is also better for jet lag.

Now here’s a look at some of the best 10-day tours. Further on we have longer tours of around 14 days .

Not many Japan Package tours stop in Osaka although we really liked this vibrant city

Japan Classics – 9 Days

The Japan Classics tour gives travelers a closer look into the cultural and historical background of Japan.

It includes both popular sites and some hidden gems, making it a very well-rounded tour.

With the Yuzen dyeing class and a visit to the Iyashi no Sato village, there is a real immersion in Japanese tradition. The culinary pleasure is also not forgotten with a Kaiseki dinner.

This tour starts in Tokyo and then makes its way to Kamakura and Iyashi no Sato to see Mt Fuji, the internationally famous symbol of Japan.

Soon after this, you will board the Shinkansen to Kansai, with most of the time spent in Kyoto. There are also visits to Osaka and Nara as part of the Kansai leg, allowing visitors to see a good variety of this lively region.

Almost all meals are provided on this tour, with the exception of two dinners being left as the visitor’s choice.

Transportation is mostly by bus, except for the Shinkansen journey from Tokyo to Kyoto.

The tour operates with a minimum group size of 10 people (max 26 people) and airport pick-up and drop-off is available for flights arriving within a certain time window.

  • Iyashi no Sato – a traditional village located close to Mt Fuji
  • Kubota Collection museum
  • Kinkaku-Ji and Kiyomizu-Dera temples in Kyoto
  • Yuzen Dyeing Class

Pros and cons about joining the Japan classics tour

best tour company for japan

  • A large range of places are visited, making it a well-rounded and varied tour
  • A good amount of free time is allocated.
  • Great for those interested in culture and tradition of Japan
  • Seasonal highlights are included, the tour will make the most of every season
  • Suitable for all ages

best tour company for japan

  • There are a number of walking tours included, which may become difficult for those not used to walking so much daily.
  • Due to the tour being very historical and culture-focused, some activities could become repetitive
  • Some days are very packed with activities and could be tiring

Important information

  • International flights and visas aren’t included.
  • Airport pick-up and drop-off is only available within a certain time window. If you arrive outside of this time window you will have to arrange your own airport transport.
  • Travel Insurance is not included in this package.

The excellent rating proves that most customers enjoyed this trip. Compliments are given to the considerate, yet efficient guides.

There were some mentions of feeling a little too busy at times, but overall, the consensus is that the Japan Classics tour is well-organized and informative.

Prices for this tour come to around €3.850 or  (about $ 4.180 at the current exchange rate at the time of writing).  

Read reviews and check prices : Japan Classics Tour

Japan Package tours that stop in Kanazawa are a good choice

Essential Japan-10 days

The Essential Japan tour from Intrepid Travel covers a lot of the key tourist destinations of Japan while still providing something extra with the inclusion of Kanazawa.

The tour is very free-form with a lot of free time that you can use to explore the places on your own or where you can choose between a number of activities on offer.

This allows you to curate the trip to match your interests.

The tour starts in Tokyo and covers a lot of the main Tokyo attractions, including Shibuya, Meiji Jingu Shrine, and Harajuku.

The shinkansen is then used to travel to Kanazawa and experience a different, more historical side of Japan. Kenrokuen gardens and the Higashi Chaya district are popular traditional sites in Kanazawa which are sometimes missed by tours.

From Kanazawa, the tour then travels through Kyoto for two days and then on to Hiroshima . Finally, the tour ends in the bright and bustling city of Osaka.

This tour is suitable for travelers between 18 and 29 and operates with a maximum group size of 16, making it smaller than some other tours.

Only 1 dinner is included and transport to and from the airport is also not provided. As this is a more independent tour, these are left open for travelers to choose.

  • Yoyogi Park in Tokyo
  • Harajuku district
  • Hiroshima Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Dome
  • Miyajima Island

Pros and cons about joining the Essential Japan tour

  • The tour gives a lot of choice to the traveler, allowing it to be more customized to the individual
  • Activities are not locked in, giving more freedom day-to-day
  • The difficulty of arranging an itinerary is taken care of, without being overwhelming
  • It may be difficult to first-time visitors to organize their free time and truly take advantage of the time available
  • This tour has a lot of free time so it is necessary to keep in mind the extra costs for trains, buses, meals, and the like.

Important Information

  • Travel Insurance is not included but is required.
  • Accommodation for this trip is mostly at hostels and ryokans. Ryokans are traditional Japanese inns and usually involve sleeping on a thin futon on the floor. Therefore, it may not be suitable for those with back, hip, or leg issues. It is also important to consider whether you are comfortable with shared sleeping areas.
  • Airport transport is left up to the traveler as the first and last day are considered free time.
  • Going to explore Tokyo on your own?  Read our useful informaiton about public transportation in Tokyo.
  • How to get from the airport to Tokyo .
  • How to travel to the airport from Osaka .

Most customers enjoyed the flexibility of this tour and the freedom to choose their own activities when they wished to.

The pacing and social aspect of the tour was also praised.

There were some issues with public transport and confusion about wrong platforms, a common problem for tourists in Japan, but they were able to be fixed easily.

Overall, this is a good tour for those who like a little more flexibility without the trouble of too much planning.

The prices for this tour come to around €2.040 (about $ 2.500 at the current exchange rate at the time of writing).  

Read reviews and check prices: Essential Japan Tour

The HIda Folk Village in Takayama Japan

Japan One Life Adventures – 10 Days

The Japan One Life Adventure tour is a fast-paced, adventure-driven backpacking tour of Japan with some unique experiences included.

The tour has a lot of classes and workshops included, allowing travelers between 18 and 39 years old to get a more behind-the-scenes look at Japanese culture and tradition.

As with most tours, this tour also starts in Tokyo.

A range of activities is offered in Tokyo, from the normal tourist attraction viewing to sushi-making classes and visits to Akihabara.

The tour then passes through Hakone , a city known for stunning views of Mt Fuji, and on to the small, historical town of Takayama.

This is often described as the highlight of the trip with an overnight stay in a temple in Takayama.

The tour then continues to Kyoto and Osaka.

All transport is included as well as about half the meals. Most breakfasts are provided and some lunch and dinner, but most lunches and dinners are left open to the traveler.

The tour includes a culture and language class, a welcome addition to give visitors more tools to navigate Japanese culture.

  • Sushi Making Class
  • Admire Mt. Fuji from Hakone
  • Early morning Fushimi-Inari tour in Kyoto
  • Overnight temple stay in Takayama
  • Kiyomizu-Dera sunrise viewing

Pros and cons about joining the Japan One Life Adventures tour

  • There are a lot of experiences included in this tour which would be very difficult or even impossible to organize otherwise.
  • The classes and workshops cater to a range of interests and are immersive to Japanese culture. These include sushi-making, kendo, and sake tasting
  • Language and culture orientation class to ease some anxieties of being in a new country and cover some of the essentials needed for a smooth tourist experience.
  • There are a lot of early mornings. While this allows for less crowds and beautiful sunrise views, it could be a negative for those who aren’t naturally early risers.
  • There is not a lot of free time included in the itinerary.
  • The tour is very fast-moving, a downside if you prefer to meander around attractions
  • The tour does not include airport pickup and drop-off.
  • This tour requires you to be very active and prepared to do a lot of walking every day.

Previous customers stated that they enjoyed the light-hearted atmosphere of the tour and were extremely complimentary of the tour guides. Most people enjoyed the pacing of the tour and the range of activities offered.

Prices for this tour come to around €1.775 (about $ 1.930 at the current exchange rate at the time of writing). 

Read reviews and check prices: Japan One Life Adventures Tour

Koyasan, Mount Koya, Japan

Capitals of Japan

This 10-day tour is packed with top tourist destinations and cities within Japan.

Despite the length, the tour is able to fit an amazing 16 different locations.

The tour starts and ends in Tokyo, the bustling capital.

The time in Tokyo is used to visit some of the most popular sights of the city, such as the pop culture capitals of Shinjuku and Akihabara as well as important cultural sites like Meiji-Jingu Shrine and Senso-Ji Temple.

The tour also explores the important historical significance of Hiroshima, with time allocated to visiting the Peace Memorial Park, Atomic Bomb Dome, and more.

From here, the tour heads to the island of Shikoku, an often-overlooked part of Japan when it comes to international tourism.

However, it is home to the domestically famous Dogo Onsen, Ritsurin Garden, and Naruto Bridge, all of which you can visit as part of this tour.

The tour also covers part of Kansai, with time spent in Kobe, Kyoto, and Osaka before moving to Mt. Koya, one of the most spiritually significant areas in Japan.

This is considered the center of Shingon Buddhism and there are many temples and monasteries in the area.

One night of the tour will be spent staying at one of the Mt. Koya temples overnight.

You will get to experience the modest accommodations and traditional food that the monks of the temple have every day.

The tour then passes through the middle of Japan with time spent in Nagano to visit the famous monkey park, Kusatsu, a popular onsen town, and more.

This tour is operated by Europamundo and has a maximum group size of 50.

Accommodation is provided and ranges from the temple at Mt. Koya to a traditional inn to standard hotels.

A breakfast buffet is provided, along with 5 lunches and 4 dinners. Ticket admission for a number of the sightseeing spots is also included.

  • Ritsurin Garden
  • Hiroshima Peace Memorial
  • Shinjuku, Tokyo
  • Jigokudani Monkey Park

Pros and cons about joining the Capitals of Japan tour

  • This tour allows you to explore a large part of Japan and get the most out of each day.
  • There is a good mix of different types of locations to suit different interests.
  • As there are so many places and activities to see and do, it may become very tiring.
  • Being able to visit all the places mentioned is highly reliant on following the schedule, meaning there is not much room for free time or for visits to run longer than planned.
  • Arrival transfer is included.
  • Travel Insurance is not included.
  • Travel is mostly done by bus ( bullet train from Tokyo to Hiroshima).

This tour would be great for travelers who want to see as much of Japan as possible but only have limited time.

This tour comes to around €3.260 (about $ 3.543USD. at the current exchange rate at the time of writing). 

Read reviews and check prices: Capitals of Japan

Best 14-day Japan tours packages

For people who wish to dedicate a bit more time to their holiday in Japan, a 14-day Japan tour is ideal.

A 14-day tour will feel less rushed and you won’t have to compromise on what to visit.

You will be able to see a wider range of places and you will leave Japan knowing that you have checked off most of the tourist highlights.

Some of the best 14-day tours of Japan include:

The Hiroshima Piece Memorial in Japan

Japan: Land of the Rising Sun – 13 Days

The Japan Land of the Rising Sun tour is a great all-rounder tour with a range of both more popular and less well-known locations.

A range of experiences is included with everything from the traditional temples and shrines to art museums to viewing some of Japan’s beautiful landscapes.

While this tour officially starts in Tokyo, the first day is spent traveling to the nearby area of Nikko, north of Tokyo.

The tour then heads south through the town of Hakone to catch some views of Mt. Fuji and on to the small traditional town of Takayama.

The tour also covers Hiroshima and Kyoto, with side trips to Miyajima Island and Himeji Castle along the way.

Two breakfasts and dinners are included and dietary requirements are able to be catered to.

All transport on this tour is via public transport – train, bus, Shinkansen, and ferry. Ideal to experience how efficient public transport in Japan is. All transportation is included.

  • Toshugu Shrine in Nikko
  • Takayama traditional vegetable market
  • Himeji Castle
  • Hakone cable car ropeway

Pros and cons about joining the Japan Land of the Rising Sun tour

  • This tour has a lot of flexibility while also offering suggestions for where to go and what to do in free time.
  • With a maximum of 12 participants you are guaranteed a small group.
  • The tour is well-paced and well-balanced.
  • There are some long travelling days, most notably between Nikko and Hakone. These can also include a number of connections between trains.
  • You will often spend the night in Ryokans, traditional Japanese inns. While these offer a traditional Japanese experience, many visitors agree they aren’t necessarily the most comfortable accommodation.
  • There will be a lot of carrying luggage between train stations and hotels and when making train connections. These will likely include some flights of stairs. It is important to consider the weight of your luggage.
  • Airport pick-up and drop-off are not included.
  • Travel Insurance is not included but is required..

Most people who have taken this tour were happy with the itinerary and the inclusion of some smaller cities and towns that they might have otherwise missed.

They found it well-paced with good suggestions on how to spend free time.

Some customers weren’t happy with the accommodation as it is quite different from the Western ideals of a hotel and there are often shared facilities.

This tour is perfect for that little-bit-of-everything trip. It provides a range of locations and experiences that can suit any age.

The price of this tour is around €3.680 (about $ 4.000 at the current exchange rate at the time of writing). 

Read reviews and check prices: Japan Land of rising sun Tour

Matsumoto Castle is one of the few original castles in Japan

Ancient & Modern Japan – 14 Days

This 2-week tour has a focus on the old and new of Japan, from the temples and castles of Kyoto to the bright lights of Tokyo.

There are a range of sightseeing spots and experiences, including the snow monkey park of Jigokudani Onsen, the Hiroshima Peace Museum, and Matsumoto Castle.

The tour starts in the traditional capital of Kyoto with day trips to Nara and Hiroshima.

From here, the tour heads to Takayama, famous for its authentic, historical architecture and village.

Later, there is a visit to Matsumoto and then continuing on to the onsen town of Yudanaka.

This is the final stop before finishing up in Tokyo for the last few days.

This tour includes 8 breakfasts and 3 dinners with the remaining meals open to personal choice.

The transport is mostly via public transport with some use of a private minibus.

This tour also includes the Japan Rail Pass.

  • Matsumoto Castle aka ‘Crow Castle’
  • Snow Monkeys of Jigokudani Onsen
  • Yudanaka onsen town
  • Hida Folk Village in Takayama

Pros and cons about joining the Ancient & Modern Japan tour

  • This tour has a good mix of ‘guided days’ and ‘free days’, with suggestions and assistance available to help organize what to do and see on free days.
  • Using Kyoto as a base and having day trips to Nara and Hiroshima cuts down on hotel checking in/checking out time and is helpful for less luggage carrying.
  • A good amount of time is allocated to see and observe the snow monkeys.
  • 7-day Japan Rail Pass included
  • There is a lot of walking to and from sightseeing spots and many flights of stairs.
  • As entire days are allocated as free time, it may be necessary to create your own full itineraries for these times. However, as mentioned, assistance is provided with this.
  • Airport pick-up and drop-off are available for those taking a ‘group flight’ with this tour. Starting 2024 airport transfers are no longer provided.
  • Accommodation is a mix of hotels and ryokans. However, it is largely hotel-based.

Most customers who took this tour were happy with the range of places they were able to visit in a short time.

They also enjoyed the flexibility of choosing their own itinerary on some days.

Some customers felt there was too much walking at too fast a pace.

It is important to take this into consideration for older travelers or those with back, hip, or leg issues.

This tour is well-designed for younger to middle-aged travelers who will enjoy the contrasts between old and new, rural and city.

The price of the Ancient & Modern Japan tour comes to around €5.995 (about $ 6.517 at the current exchange rate at the time of writing). 

Read reviews and check prices: Ancient & Modern Japan Tour

Kyoto By Night, Japan

Discover Japan-14 days

This tour looks at Japan through a historical and traditional lens with a lot of emphasis on the cultural aspects of Japan.

This is one of the most interesting aspects of Japan. Japanese culture differs vastly from most Western cultures making it a great focus for a tour.

The Discover Japan tour starts in Tokyo but quickly whisks away to Kanazawa, an interesting samurai city of the past. Some time is spent here before moving on to the historically preserved area of Takayama and then Hiroshima.

Hiroshima includes time at both the Peace Park and Miyajima Island before moving on to Kyoto.

After exploring the imperial capital of Kyoto, the tour moves to Fujikawaguchiko, one of the most popular areas in close proximity to Mt Fuji. The tour then finishes back in Tokyo.

The meals on this tour include one breakfast and one dinner. These are able to be customized to be vegetarian, vegan, halal, and kosher. However, all other meals are personal choices by the traveler.

Transport is done primarily through public transport systems and walking.

The accommodation includes both hotels and ryokans but is primarily hotel-based.

  • Exploring Fujikawaguchiko, the Five Lakes region near Mt Fuji
  • Myoryuji Ninja Temple (optional extra)
  • Higashi Geisha district of Kanazawa
  • Kenrokuen Gardens in Kanazawa

Pros and cons about joining the Discover Japan tour

  • This tour covers a lot of the top tourist destinations in Japan.
  • There is a lot of flexibility with optional extras and suggested activities for free time.
  • There are a number of key cultural spots packed into a short time.
  • 14-day Japan Rail Pass included, covering all JR train rides, also those in your free time
  • Some days are very long (15 hrs) and can be too much for some travelers.
  • Providing almost all your own food can become difficult, especially for those with dietary requirements.
  • There is a lot of walking to and from hotels and public transport so it is important to pack light, while still packing enough for a full 2 weeks.
  • Airport pick-up and drop-off are not offered as the tour encourages pre- and post-accommodation in order to enjoy Tokyo by yourself.

Most guides got rave reviews and customers were happy with this tour as a cultural introduction to Japan and a great overview of the country.

The small groups, a maximum of 15 people, ensure that the tour can keep a good pace and that you can see many things in a short time.

This tour comes to around €4.549 (about $ 4.945 at the current exchange rate at the time of writing). 

Read reviews and check prices: Discover Japan Tour

Miyajima Itsukushima shrine

Japan One Life Adventures-14 days

This is a fast-paced, very social tour covering a lot of different aspects of Japan with a number of unique experiences. The tour aims to give travelers new experiences while creating an enjoyable atmosphere.

The tour starts in Tokyo and explores the bright lights and neon districts of Tokyo, as well as some of the more traditional areas.

From here, the tour travels through Hakone to view Mt Fuji and on to Takayama where there is an overnight stay in a traditional temple.

The tour then heads to the Kansai area and lands in Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara.

There is another unique temple stay in Koya-san, a small mountain town which is seen as the cradle of Japanese Shingon Buddhism. This is accompanied by traditional meals prepared by the monks of the temple.

After this, the tour heads to Hiroshima and Miyajima for a historical finish.

The tour includes 13 meals, 8 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 4 dinners. Vegetarian alternatives can be provided upon request. Vegan options are sometimes also possible but are limited due to the nature of the Japanese cuisine.

Transport is all managed through public transport.

  • Senso-ji in Asakusa after dark
  • Morning visit to Fushimi-Inari 
  • Sushi Making Masterclass
  • Shinsekai in Osaka
  • Koya-san Temple Stay

Pros and cons about joining the Japan One Life Adventure tour

  • There are many cultural experiences offered, catering to various different interests and personality types.
  • The tour encourages a warm and friendly social culture to allow travelers to feel comfortable and as if they are a family, rather than customers.
  • The tour visits some more out-of-the-way areas, as well as the popular locations.
  • The tour is intended to be fast and quick-moving. For those who prefer to wander and take the days slow, this may not be ideal.
  • For some travelers, the amount of twin-share and multi-share accommodation may not be comfortable.
  • International flights and visas aren’t included
  • Airport pick-up and drop-off are not available.
  • This is a tour aimed at active people, mostly in their 20s or early 30s. It is important to consider your own limitations or preferences when it comes to this type of tour.

Previous customers of this tour loved the social aspect and friendly environment created by the tour guides. They enjoyed the range of places visited and the unique experiences.

This tour would be ideal for young, fit people who are ready for a fast-paced and active tour, aiming to see as much as possible, as fast as possible and have a good time doing it.

This tour comes in at around €2.446 (about $ 2.646 at the current exchange rate at the time of writing). 

Check prices and availability: Japan One Life Adventures Tour

Snow Monkey - Jigokudani - Yudanaka - Japan

Japan Adventure-13 days

The Japan Adventure Tour is a great introduction to a number of aspects of Japan, both modern and traditional.

The tour has an interesting blend of the more historical cultural parts of Japan along with the more modern pop culture that many have grown to love.

The tour starts in Tokyo with some city tours and fun experiences before moving to Nagano where you can try your hand at origami. Next stop is Yudanaka where you can spot the snow monkeys, relax in an onsen, and learn to roll soba noodles.

The tour then jumps down to Hakone, where you can bathe in hot springs and catch a glimpse of Mt. Fuji, before continuing to Osaka.

From here there is a one-night temple stay at Koya-san with the opportunity to see the monks perform their morning rituals and fire ceremony.

The tour then moves to the final stop in Kyoto.

This tour includes 9 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 2 dinners. The remaining meals are left open to the traveler’s choice of when and where to eat.

All travel is done by public transport.

Accommodation is always twin-share or quad-share and mostly in hostels. Exceptions are a temple stay in Koyasan, and a Ryokan in Nagano.

  • Origami experience in Nagano
  • Soba Noodles Workshop in Yudanaka
  • Shiga Kogen National Park (summer only)
  • Osaka Castle
  • Fushimi-Inari torii gates in Kyoto

Pros and cons about joining the Japan Adventure Tour

  • The tour is well-balanced, both in time and in range of activities.
  • There is a good mix of both popular sightseeing spots and lesser-known areas.
  • All the included experiences make this trip truly unique
  • There are some ‘nightlife’ activities planned. This could be a pro or con, depending on personality and interests.
  • There are a number of early mornings, which may be difficult with the late nights.
  • The tour mainly stays in hostels and shared rooms. This is something you should feel comfortable with.
  • All nights are spent in hostels or Ryokans with shared rooms.
  • Insurance isn’t included but is required.

All previous customers of this tour have given rave reviews.

Customers have enjoyed the friendly atmosphere and the knowledgeable tour guides as well as the range of experiences offered.

Previous customers also feel the time is well-balanced and free time is well-allocated.

This tour would be good for most people as it is quite customizable and covers a lot of both modern and traditional aspects of Japan.

This tour comes to around € 2.399 (about $ 2.595 at the current exchange rate at the time of writing). 

Read reviews and check prices: Japan Adventure Tour

Philosopher's Path Kyoto, Japan

Cherry Blossom and Gardens Tour-13 days

The Cherry Blossom and Gardens tour is operated during the limited cherry blossom season in Japan to see Japanese gardens at their most beautiful and experience the stunning nature of Japan.

While the tour is named after gardens, there are also a number of cultural locations included.

The tour starts in Tokyo for three nights before heading to Mount Fuji. You will visit one of the popular Mt. Fuji 5 th stations that act as a starting point for the hike to the top of the sacred mountain.

From here, the tour moves to Takayama and then to Kanazawa via the scenic, traditional town of Shirakawa-go.

After enjoying one of the top 3 gardens in Japan, Kenrokuen, the tour then travels to Kyoto where you will follow in the footsteps of famous philosopher Kitaro Nishida and wander along the Philosopher’s path covered in cherry blossoms.

You then take a day trip to Nara before continuing on to Hiroshima.

From Hiroshima, we move back to the Kansai region via Himeji castle. The last few nights are spent in Osaka.

This tour includes all breakfasts and 7 lunches and 8 dinners. The transport is covered by Shinkansen and an air-conditioned coach.

The accommodation is all hotel-based.

  • Mt Fuji 5 th Station
  • Shirakawago
  • Ueno Park & Kenrokuen cherry blossoms
  • Todai-Ji Temple and the deer of Nara

Pros and Cons of joining the Cherry Blossom and Garden Tour

  • A number of beautiful gardens are included to admire the cherry blossoms
  • Transport by coach bypasses a lot of the issues involved in public transport.
  • Many meals are included.
  • The tour is quite focused on gardens and could feel ‘slow’ to some travelers.
  • Some days are mainly spent travelling with very little sightseeing.
  • Airport pick-up is not available, however, there is an airport departure shuttle bus arranged.
  • This tour is aimed at travelers aged 40 – 80. It is important to keep in mind the pace of the tour when considering if it will suit your preferences.

Most customers were very happy with this tour and spoke of the guides going above and beyond to solve any issues.

Travelers who have done the tour more recently reported that it would be better if the guide had a better knowledge of English.

This tour would be ideal for those wishing to finally tick off that bucket list item of seeing the cherry blossoms in Japan. With a nice balance of relaxing gardens and cultural experiences, this tour is a great introduction to Japan.

This tour comes to around € 5.199 (about $ 5.624 at the current exchange rate at the time of writing). 

Read reviews and check prices: Cherry Blossom and Gardens Tour

Hakone ropeway Owakudani Japan

Japan Winter Wonder + 4-day ski package-13 days

The Japan Winter Wonder Tour is a 9-day overview tour of Japan, visiting some of the best spots in the country, with the optional extra of adding 4 days of skiing in the small mountain town of Hakuba.

The tour offers a good amount of free time while still providing guided tours for some of the most important locations.

There is a mix of fun, pop culture, historical sites, and skiing on this tour.

The tour starts in Osaka, where there is plenty of free time to explore the city. The tour then moves on to Kyoto, the historical capital of Japan and home to thousands of temples and shrines.

From here, the tour passes on to Hiroshima. Hiroshima is a key historical site and commemorates this with the Peace Park, Peace Museum, Atomic Bomb Dome, and various other monuments. It is also home to Miyajima Island, populated by wild, yet tame deer.

The tour then moves to the capital, Tokyo.

As a city of contrasts, there is a lot to see and do in Tokyo.

There is also a day trip to Hakone in order to catch some views of Mt Fuji before the 4 days of skiing take place.

Hakuba is a small mountain village located in Nagano prefecture. It is home to a number of ski resorts offering slopes at varying levels of difficulty.

This makes it great for both beginners and more experienced skiers.

There are also a number of onsens (hot springs) available to rest in after skiing. After 4 days, the tour returns to finish in Tokyo.

This tour has breakfast provided every day. However, other meals are always left up to the traveler.

The accommodation is mostly twin-share rooms and transport is mostly covered.

  • Guided tour of Kyoto
  • Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island
  • Hakone Ropeway
  • Hakuba ski town

Pros and cons about joining the Japan Winter Wonder tour

  • There is a good amount of free time provided.
  • The ski resort consists of 135 lifts and 200 runs.
  • A good range of cultural activities and tours are included.
  • The skiing leg of the trip is unescorted and due to the round trip to Tokyo only 2 full days. This should be enough however to enjoy the excellent powdery snow.
  • The tour doesn’t really go ‘off the beaten track’.
  • Age is restricted between 18-35 years.
  • Airport pick-up and drop-off are not provided.
  • Insurance is not included. 
  • The tour guide doesn’t accompany the group for the 4 days of skiing. This should be okay for most travelers; however, it could be surprising for those who come to rely on the guide.
  • Ski hire and ski passes aren’t included.

Most previous customers loved their time on this tour and enjoyed the company and knowledge of their guides.

Some mentioned that it is important to take into account travel times as this can reduce the amount of time available for activities.

This is true of any trip but is sometimes easy to forget when reading a tour itinerary.

This tour is great for those who want both the ideal skiing trip as well as the perfect Japan vacation.

This tour comes to around € 3.773 (about $ 4.081 at the current exchange rate at the time of writing). Without the ski add-on package the tour costs € 2.298 ( $ 2.486).

Read reviews and check prices: Japan Winter Wonder Tour

If you have more time and want to go skiing longer, you could opt for a 15 day tour which includes 6 days skiing.

Shibuya crossing Tokyo Japan

What to look for when booking a Japan Holiday Package

The duration of the package is of course important, but it is not everything.

And we would not fixate too much on the destinations either. You obviously want to check off those highlights but all aspects of the tour must be good so that you can fully enjoy your trip.

That is why we recommend carefully looking at these aspects before booking your tour.

  • Group size: Large groups can reduce the price of a tour but can also lead to frustration during the tour. With a larger group everything always goes a bit slower and there always seems to be someone you have to wait for.
  • Does it matches your interests: While some tours manage to balance different interests really well others have a clear focus on a certain aspect. If you are a nature lover, you won’t be able to appreciate the country and the tour if your guide tells you endless stories about the many temples you visit day after day.
  • Pace of the tour: Fast-paced tours are ideal for visiting many highlights in a short time. This allows you to get a good impression of this beautiful country in a relatively short time. But too much is too much. If you think you will no longer be able to enjoy your trip due to the fast pace, it is better to choose another tour.
  • Free time vs guided activities: Some of these tours offer no free time at all while others offer several free days. Both have their advantages and everyone has their preference. It is important that the tour matches what you want.
  • Read the reviews: The reviews are a good place to learn additional things about the tour. Travelers who did the tour before you often share their insights about the pace of the tour and the guide. Things that are useful to get a better idea of what you can expect.

Flights, Visas, Airport Transfers & Travel Insurance

These package holidays take away many of the worries of traveling, but you still have to arrange a few things yourself.

Although travel insurance is never included some tour operators do require that you have it.

Book your flights

Once your tour is booked, you can start looking for flights. We recommend Momondo , Kayak , and Skyscanner to more easily compare the many flight options. These 3 flight aggregator sites compare hundreds of sites to find the best fares.

More info on these and other flight booking sites with tips for finding cheap flights.

Arrange your airport transfer

This is sometimes taken care of by the tour operator, but not always. If not, it might be a good idea to arrange it yourself, or at least have a look at the different options, before arriving. This way you can start your vacation with confidence.

When arriving in or departing from Tokyo

Tokyo’s airports are well-connected by public transport .

Taxis are quite expensive. If you prefer private transport, it is best to arrange this in advance. Here you can book your  private transfer from Narita.  If you are arriving at  Haneda airport, click here to book your private transfer.

When arriving in or departing from Osaka (or Kyoto)

To get from Kansai International Airport to Osaka or Kyoto you can use the train or one of the limousine buses .

Taxis are expensive, if you do prefer a private transfer it’s best to book one in advance .

Most people can travel to Japan under the Visa-exempt program . The period of stay is usually 90 days, except for residents of some countries who can only stay for 2 weeks or 1 month without a visa.

Travelers who need a visa can be assisted by the professional and highly-rated visa services of iVisa .

Don’t forget travel insurance

Finally, a step that is easily forgotten or ignored, is travel insurance.

Travel insurance is often one of those things that it’s easy to think is overpriced and unnecessary until you’re in a situation where you need it.

Unfortunately, we speak from experience and we had to get into an accident ourselves before we started taking out good travel insurance for our trips.

To avoid this happening to you, make sure to book travel insurance well before traveling.

Have a look at  SafetyWing  and   HeyMondo or read this article to see how they compare . Or have a look at VisitorsCoverage . A well-trusted insurance broker with policies for Japan for travelers from age 14 days to 99 years.

More info on travel insurance for Japan .

best tour company for japan

FAQs about Japan holiday package s

How long do you need to spend in japan.

If you have the time, we recommend that you try to allow 14 days for your trip. We guarantee that you will not be bored for a second.

If that is not possible, you can opt for shorter tours. There are some options in this article and we have articles about 5-day tour packages and 7-day tour packages .

What are the best tour companies for Japan? 

The list of tour companies operating in Japan is very long. You have well-known international brands as well as many local niche companies.

The short answer is that there is no one-size-fits-all tour company. Each tour company adds its own accents to a tour.

You can opt to go for a tour operator you’ve used before and particularly liked. Chances are they also operate tours in Japan.

But why not try one of the local niche companies. They are very passionate about their country and know it inside and out.

I understand that you may be a bit reluctant to confide your hard-earned money to a relatively small and unknown company. For this reason, we use TourRadar.

TourRadar is an online travel agency that brings together over 200 multi-day tours from a wide selection of tour operators, both international and local.

Their interface makes it really easy to compare the various options and you can read reviews from real travelers.

TourRadar is a trustworthy organization. It started in 2010 and had over 1 million departures already. 20% of their bookings are coming from repeat customers.

Here are some more advantages of using TourRadar:

  • Instant confirmation
  • 24/7 support
  • No booking or credit card fees
  • Lowest Price Guarantee: If you find the same tour cheaper somewhere else TourRadar will match the price
  • Every booking earns 3% travel credits that you can use to make your next vacation even cheaper

Are there self-guided tours for Japan?

Yes, absolutely!

If you prefer to travel at your own pace you can choose from many self-guided itineraries on TourRadar.

An in-depth look at the best self-guided tours for Japan .

Are there foodie tours for Japan?

Although not included in our overview gourmands will also be able to find special food tours on TourRadar.

Meiji Shrine in Tokyo

How much is a Japan tour package?

Prices for a tour package range on average from 200 USD to 370 USD per person per day. Whether your tour will be in the lower or upper end of this range will largely depend on the comfort you choose.

Cheaper tours tend to include accommodation in hostels, or low-end hotels. More expensive tours include accommodation in 3 and 4-star hotels.

Flexible tours that only include limited guided excursions and offer plenty of free time to explore the destinations on your own are usually also cheaper.

If you don’t mind exploring Japan on your own you can opt for a self-guided tour where the itinerary and all documentation, as well as train tickets, will be provided giving you the ability to explore the country at your own pace.

Here is an overview of some great self-guided Japan tours.

Planning an international vacation can be difficult at the best of times, even without taking into account language and cultural differences.

One of the best ways to avoid all the difficulties is to choose a package tour.

Nowadays, there is a huge range of tours available to cater to every personality type and interest, budget, and holiday length.

We have collated some of the best tours of Japan to make that process just a little easier for you.

For more tips about Japan, check out our Japan travel guide. 

Deals of the Week   St. Patrick's Day   Up to 50% OFF

Private Japan Tours

Find the right private tour for you in Japan. There are 36 trips to choose from, that range from 3 days in length, up to 21 days. The month with the most departures is October, making it the most popular time to visit Japan.

36 Private tours of Japan with 185 positive reviews

7 Days Customized Best Japan Tour, Private & Daily Departure Tour

  • Festival & Events
  • Christmas & New Year

7 Days Customized Best Japan Tour, Private & Daily Departure

Excellent customer service. Very efficient and responsive. Guides were informative. Thank you. I’ll be using your travel again. Highly recommend.
  • Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

10 Days Private Tailor-Made Japan Trip, Daily Departure Tour

10 Days Private Tailor-Made Japan Trip, Daily Departure

The tour was great! We liked the tour guides, though one was delayed because of a train accident. Their English was generally good, and one took us "off tour" to show us some of the hidden gems in her community; we liked that especially.

Japan Essentials: From Tokyo to Osaka (Customized Private) Tour

Japan Essentials: From Tokyo to Osaka (Customized Private)

Odynovo is a great company for planning a full vacation with tours. I recommend it. it helps with decreasing planning load and frees your time.

9 Day Deluxe Independent Japan Tour

  • In-depth Cultural

9 Day Deluxe Independent Japan

Best of Osaka, Kyoto and Hiroshima 6 Days Tour

Best of Osaka, Kyoto and Hiroshima 6 Days

Trail By Rail Tour

  • Train & Rail

Trail By Rail

Japan Winter Tour with Monkey Onsen (Bespoke Private) Tour

Japan Winter Tour with Monkey Onsen (Bespoke Private)

Don was able to accommodate all of our requests seamlessly! He exceeded our expectations and is already working on another vacation for us in the upcoming months! I would 10/10 recommend him and his service!

Looking for tours beyond just Japan?

Explore tours with itineraries going through multiple countries, including Japan.

Japan Highlights 10D/9N Tour

Japan Highlights 10D/9N

Explanation of tour not detailed effectively. TOKYO Tickets for Hakone from Tokyo. (Romance train). Unclear of necessary tickets and no information relayed. ie a freepass was required for platform entry. A representative was expected for information re transport difficulties due to language barriers and an insight into the tour. We only got a package delivered to the hotel and never saw a representative. TRAIN JRP information not clear. ie could not book tickets from other stations and ticket sale needed to be from the actual departure station. Wasted time queuing twice for two hours. Name spelled wrong on one persons JRP. Ticket office were not going to issue the JRP and we had to argue it was a misspelling. Another delay. We appreciate it was a semi independent tour but could have done it ourselves. We joined a tour purposely to be more organised for us with clearer instructions. Tour guides for 2 half days only although it stated 1 full day and a half day. Only visited the Golden Temple and castle. Guide left us at the palace. If we had not purchased a remote WIFI at the airport for maps and translating we would have struggled to get around. Price did not match tour inadequacy. As you were informed prior to the tour, we were not staying overnight in Osaka. Was this reflected in the price? POSITIVES Previous Touradour TOURS I booked were excellent with efficient organisation and support. However, this was lacking the guidance. Tour guides were lovely people. Hakone No shower however loved the original Ryokan and excellent food. Hotels were all excellent with very good breakfasts and amenities. Overall we had a great holiday but feel the price certainly did not reflect the lack of communication and service.
  • 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Independent Tokyo, Kyoto & Osaka City Stays Tour

Independent Tokyo, Kyoto & Osaka City Stays

Independent Tokyo & Kyoto City Stays Tour

Independent Tokyo & Kyoto City Stays

Cycle Kyoto To The Coast - Self-Guided Tour

  • Active Adventure
  • Self-Guided Cycling

Cycle Kyoto To The Coast - Self-Guided

Forgotten Japan Tour

Forgotten Japan

Shikoku Pilgrimage Trail Tour

  • Hiking & Trekking

Shikoku Pilgrimage Trail

Japan Explorer 13D/12N Tour

Japan Explorer 13D/12N

Culture and Modernity Exhibition; Tokyo Tour

Culture and Modernity Exhibition; Tokyo

Private japan tour reviews.

The tour was great! We liked the tour guides, though one was delayed because of a train accident. Their English was generally good, and one took us "off tour" to show us some of the hidden gems in her community; we liked that especially.
Amazing set and itinerary.

Regions in Japan

  • Central Japan (36)
  • Southern Japan (36)
  • Honshu (35)

Travel Styles

  • 10 Best Private Travel Agents & Tour Companies
  • Best Private Tours in the World
  • Japan Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
  • 2 Week (14 Days) Japan Travel Itineraries & Cost 2024/2025
  • 1 Week (7 Day) Japan Travel Itineraries 2024/2025
  • Best 3 Week (21 Days) Japan Travel Itineraries 2024/2025
  • Discover the Best Japan Vacation Packages 2024/2025
  • What is the best time to visit Japan in 2024/2025?
  • Weather in Japan in 2024/2025

International Versions

  • Deutsch: Japan Privatreise Rundreisen
  • Français: Japon : Voyages privés
  • Español: Privado Circuitos en Japón
  • Nederlands: Privé Rondreizen in Japan

Tour Packages

Tour packages are travel plans, which include some or all of the following: transportation , accommodation , meals, guided tours and more. They can be of great value to both, independent and group travelers.

Tour packages range from individual travel plans, which include only a train ticket and hotel reservation and leave everything else to the traveler, to fully guided tours which cover everything from airfare to English speaking guides and meals. Furthermore, there is a range of special interest tours, such as anime , hot spring , hiking or theme park tours.

Many companies inside and outside of Japan offer tour packages. Because the companies purchase tickets and hotel rooms in large bulks, they are able to offer the packages at costs far below the ones available to individual travelers, making tour packages an option worth considering by travelers of all budgets .

Questions? Ask in our forum .

best tour company for japan

New 2025 Tour Dates: The Nakasendo Way

New 2025 tour dates: oita hot spring trail, may 2024 tour date: tohoku aizu explorer, new 2025 tour dates: nakasendo way: the kiso road, new tour dates: shio-no-michi: the salt road, new tour dates: michinoku coastal trail, celebrating over 30 years, since 1992, walk japan '...for a fascinating and intimate peek into japan'. businessweek, walk japan is the pioneer of small group tours venturing deep into japanese society & culture., walk japan's tour leaders are the top-rated '... stars of the show'. timeasia, walk japan combines in-depth knowledge, proven skills and a strong commitment to japan., walk japan for the japanese art of living., walk japan guarantees all tour departures..

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Featured Tours

Basho tohoku tour: narrow road to the north.

7 days | May - November Activity Level : 2

Michinoku Coastal Trail

9 days | April - June & September - November Activity Level : 4

Nakasendo Way

11 days | March - June & September - November Activity Level : 3

  • Self-Guided

Self-Guided Shikoku Wayfarer

6 days | March - December Activity Level : 4

Shikoku: Kochi and Ehime Discovery

7 days | January - June & September - December Activity Level : 4

Shio-no-Michi: The Salt Road

9 days | May - June & September - November Activity Level : 4

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Walk Japan provides authentic and enjoyable tours to discover Japan, its people, society and culture. Beginning in 1992 with our innovative and best-selling Nakasendo Way tour, we were the first to successfully introduce the real Japan, geographically and culturally, that often remains inaccessible for most visitors to the country. Since then, Walk Japan has created more original tours throughout Japan and been widely recognised for its work, including selection by National Geographic as one of the 200 Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth.

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Best tour companies for travel in Japan - Japan Forum

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' class=

I would like to plan a trip this summer with my parents who are in their 70's and would like to work with a tour company who can provide great service and nice accommodations. Any advice would be appreciated.

' class=

Welcome to TA.

Companies that come up in this forum:

http://www.insidejapantours.com/

http://www.intrepidtravel.com/Japan

http://www.jtbusa.com/en/tour/t-sp.asp

Also research - http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2275.html

best tour company for japan

It is not clear whether you want a tour or someone to sort out accommodation and transport.

I found them to be honest, efficient and a delight to work with. I also really liked the private guides they arranged for some of the places I went. As a solo traveller I was particularly worried about spending a whole day with someone whose English was such that I had difficulty understanding them and vice versa, but it wasn't like that at all.

http://www.insidejapantours.com/fully-tailored-japan-holidays-all/

However, you should know that Japan is very very hot and humid in the summer. Your parents may find it wearing if they are not used to such weather. May and October/November may be more comfortable. You could also consider places in the mountains like Takayama and Mount Koya and/or places in Tohoku which I found a bit more comfortable this summer, or Hokkaido, where Japanese escape to.

Tripadvisor staff removed this post because it did not meet Tripadvisor's forum posting guidelines with prohibiting self-promotional advertising or solicitation.

Tripadvisor staff removed this post at the original author's request.

best tour company for japan

have anyone tried a tour with The Art of Travel? May I know how is it?

This post was determined to be inappropriate by the Tripadvisor community and has been removed.

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best tour company for japan

Boutique Japan

One-of-a-Kind Japan Trips

Since 2013, our award-winning team has been designing unique, original Japan itineraries for discerning travelers from around the world.

Find inspiration in our sample trips below, but let us create your trip completely from scratch (if you’re still in the early planning stages, go down the rabbit hole in our information-filled blog ).

  • Sample Itineraries
  • What’s Included?

Omotesando backstreets near Harajuku Tokyo

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

Testimonial for Boutique Japan from Peter and Lyn, Australia.

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

Testimonial for Boutique Japan from Jennifer and Ray, Australia.

Gary & Shiona, Australia

We are just settling back after a truly wonderful trip during which every aspect was quite special. The itinerary was full of highlights, superbly structured and finely organized – even down to the ‘comfortable’ 4-minute train change in Nagoya. Boutique Japan brought the team's deep knowledge of Japan to bear to develop a range of… Read More

Doris Finch Boutique Japan Testimonial

Doris Finch, California

First off, the trip beautifully fulfilled our very demanding expectations. Given our many areas of interest, prior experience and particular needs, I can’t imagine anyone else meeting all that so well. Our guides were all excellent. That was maybe our greatest apprehension because we have met our share of ho-hum as well as very good… Read More

Sample Japan Itineraries

When it comes to your itinerary, the possibilities are endless. The sample itineraries below include some but far from all of our favorite  destinations in Japan .

For more inspiration, also see our 9-day sample itinerary , and our favorite  off-the-beaten-path places in Japan .

Meaningful Japan Experiences

Japan offers an incredible array of cultural and culinary experiences, from the sublime to the exhilarating. Look forward to the following on a trip with us:

Unique accommodations.

Enjoy boutique and luxury  hotels  and  ryokans  with character, chosen to match your taste and priorities.

Enjoy the best of  Japanese food  with local experts, from casual  ramen  shops and  izakayas , to exquisite kaiseki and  sushi .

Sample beverages — from  tea  and  coffee , to  sake ,  whisky , wine, and shochu  — and marvel at Japan’s refined culture of cocktails.

Gallery hop in Tokyo, visit the art island  Naoshima , and meet master artisans and traditional craftspeople in Kyoto and rural Japan.

Contemporary culture.

Find inspiration in Japan’s spectacular architecture, renowned culture of design, and pioneering fashion — not to mention some of the world’s best shopping.

Stroll through impeccable  gardens , visit remarkable  temples and shrines , and experience the high energy of  sumo  or a traditional  matsuri  (festival) .

Get outdoors and  off-the-beaten-path  with vigorous hikes, historic village-to-village walks, and the chance to soak in remote rural  onsen  (hot springs) deep in the Japanese countryside.

Boutique Japan testimonial Andra Smith

Andra Smith, Connecticut

We absolutely loved our trip. I fell in love with Tokyo and am secretly hoping I can convince my sister or friend to visit soon so I can go with them to see more of the neighborhoods we missed this time around. Each guide was very, very well-matched with the type of tour they gave.… Read More

Buddhist monk in front of temple in Kyoto, Japan

Tessa Scher, Cape Town

We have just returned from an outstanding 19-day holiday in Japan thanks to Boutique Japan. I cannot recommend this travel company highly enough. From the beginning to the end their service, attention to detail, advice and support were incredible. We have traveled extensively but Boutique Japan is by far the best travel agency that we… Read More

boutique japan testimonials honeymoon becky and jay new york city

Becky & Jay, New York City

Boutique Japan planned our honeymoon in February 2016. Our overall experience with them was absolutely exceptional, I could not recommend them more. My husband and I love to travel but had never used a travel agent before (truth is we’ve always been skeptical). We found an article written by Boutique Japan on the best sushi… Read More

Catherine and Paul Australia Boutique Japan testimonial

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

What’s Included in Your Trip?

Each Japan trip we design is unique, but our trips typically include all of the following:

Bespoke design.

We take personalization seriously. Not only do we really listen to you, our profound expertise and extensive connections mean your trip will be both completely unique and authentically special.

Beautiful accommodations.

A trip to Japan offers the chance to stay in stunning  boutique and luxury hotels and ryokans . We’ll make thoughtful recommendations based on our personal expertise and your taste and priorities.

Fun and insightful private tours and experiences.

When it comes to private guides and local experts, we have unusually high standards (see why in the  FAQ  below). Your trip will include unique private tours and experiences, curated around your interests — and as much free time as you’d like.

In-country transport and seamless logistics.

We meticulously arrange your in-country travels around your preferences and priorities. Getting around Japan is an absolute pleasure thanks to the comfort and efficiency of its various modes of transport, from impeccable  trains  and the  shinkansen  to courteous white-gloved drivers.

Selected meals.

Your trip includes meals at your accommodations — breakfast at hotels, plus amazing dinners and breakfasts at  ryokans — and any meals included as part of your guided culinary experiences , such as private izakaya  outings, intimate  sushi  dinners,  ramen  crawls,  whisky  tastings, and more.

Pre-departure information.

Essential advice as you prepare for your trip, including key tips on Japanese etiquette, packing, money, language, Wi-Fi, and more.

Extraordinary support.

We are here to answer any questions that may come up at every stage of the process , and provide thoughtful service to our travelers from start to finish.

Alsher Boutique Japan Review

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

Pricing for a Trip with Boutique Japan

The pricing guidelines below are intended to help you estimate the cost of your trip.

However, please keep in mind that these are not fixed categories. For example, some travelers love small boutique hotels, others prefer top-end luxury properties — and many like a mix of both.

The main factors that determine the price of each trip include:

  • The number of travelers in your party
  • Your travel dates (pricing is higher during  peak seasons )
  • Your preferences and priorities (for example, a trip including suites at Japan’s top hotels and a full-time private guide will cost more than an itinerary featuring stylish boutique hotels and a mix of guiding and free time)

Boutique | US $1,000-$1,200 per person per day

A Boutique trip includes a thoughtful selection of boutique accommodations, a mix of unique private experiences and independent exploration, and transport throughout the country primarily via Japan’s fantastic rail system.

Luxury  | US $1,200-$1,800 per person per day

A Luxury trip includes a thoughtful selection of luxury accommodations, a mix of exclusive private experiences with local experts (along with as much free time as you would like), and transport throughout the country via Japan’s fantastic rail system and private vehicles where appropriate.

Premier  | US $1,800 per person per day and up

A Premier trip simply includes the best of the best, with boundless possibilities.

Special Notes

Please note that we specialize in trips of one week and longer.

The prices above are per person per day and based on double occupancy. We love working with solo travelers, but even though we do not charge a single supplement per se , some services do cost more (on a per-person basis) when not shared with other travelers.

In the course of planning your trip , we typically require a small itinerary design fee. This enables us to dedicate truly personalized attention to each of our travelers. The amount varies depending on factors including trip length and the nature of your request, and is fully applicable to the final cost of your trip.

Your personalized itinerary is offered as a completely bespoke package, and we don’t include itemized pricing. Some travelers don’t have a specific budget in mind, but if you have a preferred range or limit please just let us know and we’ll be happy to work with you.

For any questions, please don’t hesitate to  contact us !

wooden teapot in a luxury ryokan in Japan

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

luxury ryokan Gora Kadan in Hakone Japan

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

These are some of the most common questions we get from travelers. If you have any other questions, we’ll be happy to help so please  contact us .

Are these group tours?

No, at Boutique Japan we specialize in completely private itineraries, designed around you.

How does your service work?

We begin by listening and learning about your interests, priorities, and travel style. Then we provide expert input to make sure you’re aware of special places and experiences you may not have considered.

Next, we design a completely customized Japan trip just for you, taking your feedback into account along the way. Throughout the process, we make things as easy and enjoyable as possible for you. See more details in  Planning Your Trip with Boutique Japan .

Which areas of Japan do you offer?

We offer private itineraries throughout all of Japan. Our sample trips above are here to provide inspiration, and there are also many other  places in Japan we absolutely love .

When it comes to your itinerary, we’ll provide personalized suggestions in the course of planning your trip.

How do you choose your private guides and local experts?

We hear a lot from travelers who have had lackluster, unsatisfying tours in the past.

While some of our clients enjoy having a guide from start to finish, most commonly our travelers enjoy a mix of guided time along with free time for independent exploration and relaxation (in our experience, the optimal balance is quite different for everyone).

When it comes to private guides and local experts, we have unusually high standards (few things in travel are more disappointing than a mediocre guide), and through constant travel and exploration we’ve personally developed a network of wonderful guides and insightful experts throughout Japan. In Japan, even more so than most elsewhere, trust is established only over long periods of time. Our tours are based on valuable relationships carefully cultivated over many years, and we’re extremely fortunate to work with remarkable people around the country.

For us, it’s about far more than just having knowledge: we seek out the truly engaging individuals who are not only bright and knowledgeable, but also flexible and quick-thinking. Perhaps above all, they must be fun, interesting people you’ll actually want to spend your valuable time with.

Can we use points or miles to book our own hotels?

As points lovers ourselves, we completely understand wanting to use them. However, because accommodations form such an integral part of each trip we design, we arrange all accommodations as part of our service.

This helps us ensure a truly seamless experience for all our clients, from start to finish.

What about restaurant reservations?

For nearly all of our travelers, Japanese food is a high priority!

As part of your trip, we can include special culinary experiences such as private market tours with local experts, as well as intimate guided dining experiences at unique and wonderful restaurants throughout the country.

It’s important to note that we don’t make additional restaurant reservations as part of our service. However, like virtually all of our travelers we are very passionate about Japanese cuisine, and will go out of our way to ensure you have the information you need to make any reservations of interest as easily as possible.

To start, well before your trip we’ll provide you with a short list of remarkable restaurants to consider. These days, most high-end restaurants in Japan prefer to take reservations directly from hotel concierges (for a variety of cultural reasons, it’s less of a headache for the restaurants), and for convenience we can connect you directly with the concierge at your hotels. In some cases, we also recommend using a reputable reservation service such as TableAll .

As part of the booking process, we’ll also provide insight on when you should be starting to think about reservations and other essential details.

I want to visit Tokyo Disney and Universal Studios Japan.

These can be wonderful places, and are especially popular with families traveling to Japan , but in the interest of being upfront please note that we are far from theme park experts. Because of this, we can’t provide any special insight when it comes to visiting theme parks or obtaining tickets.

This being said, we do have many clients visit on their own, and we’re more than happy to build free time into your itinerary for you to self-arrange any theme park visits of interest.

Will booking through you save me money?

Some travel companies tout their access to discounts, but the main reason travelers book through us is to gain access to our profound Japan expertise and extensive network throughout the country.

Not only will we help you dream up a completely unique itinerary through our in-depth knowledge of Japan and extraordinarily personalized trip-planning process, we’ll also save you countless hours expertly coordinating the nitty-gritty logistics of your trip.

Our service is ideal for travelers who appreciate expert assistance and meaningful, personalized experiences.

Who are your trips for?

Our  travelers are based around the world, in the Americas, Australia, and beyond. The majority of our travelers are couples,  families , small groups of friends, and solo travelers.

Why should I travel with Boutique Japan?

We are accredited Japan Travel Specialists, and maintain active memberships with respected organizations including  IATAN  and  ATTA .

Perhaps more interestingly, unlike most travel companies we intentionally work with fewer travelers. This lets us take an extraordinarily personalized approach when it comes to your trip. Along with our expertise and creativity, our low-volume approach is one reason  Condé Nast Traveler  magazine considers Boutique Japan founder  Andres Zuleta  a  Top Travel Specialist  for Japan:

“Zuleta’s Boutique Japan is a small company that eschews volume and spends more time customizing each trip to offer travelers a fresh, creative approach to Japan – something that discerning travelers seek out after learning of Zuleta’s deep immersion into the Japanese language and culture from years of living in Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka.”

If you’re as obsessed with the details as we are, chances are we’ll be a good fit — see what our travelers say  here  and on  Google Reviews .

Susan and Smiler Boutique Japan review

Susan & Smiler, Palo Alto, CA

Nothing could have made this three-week, first time trip to Japan better. Andres and Piper's planning made it perfect. The level of thought and attention to detail they put into curating our experience in Japan was something I'd never experienced in many years of travel. I'm smitten, with Japan and Boutique Japan.

Women summer yukata Japan

Keri and Marvin, Los Angeles

We really had a terrific trip! Can't thank you enough for the thoughtful planning and recommendations along the way. From Naoshima for the guys (a huge highlight), to the magical Kyoto of temples, bamboo forests and geishas, to sumo in Osaka, through the restful ryokan and walking around Shuzenji Onsen on a rainy day, and… Read More

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The journey toward AI-enabled railway companies

Many types of artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities have accelerated in recent years due to tumbling costs of data storage and processing, rapidly expanding data availability, and improved data storage and modelling techniques. In general, analytical AI can analyze historical data and make numeric predictions, while generative AI (gen AI) allows machines to produce new outputs similar to human-generated content. Gen AI, in particular, has been building momentum since 2017 and hit an inflection point at the end of 2022 when applications such as ChatGPT became publicly available.

It’s no surprise, then, that AI adoption has surged across industries. For instance, in 2023, a third of respondents taking part in McKinsey’s annual global survey on the state of AI indicated that their organizations regularly use gen AI in at least one business function, and 60 percent of organizations that have adopted analytical AI said they are also developing gen AI use cases. 1 “ The state of AI in 2023: Generative AI’s breakout year ,” McKinsey, August 1, 2023.

Historically, the rail industry faced challenges in adopting digital technologies due to limited data availability and quality, regulatory considerations, and lack of standardization. Today, analytical AI and gen AI provide an opportunity for companies across the railway value chain to further embrace digitization.

A recent report, The journey toward AI-enabled railway companies , produced by the International Union of Railways (UIC) in partnership with McKinsey, examines the adoption of analytical AI and gen AI in the rail industry, and the business potential that these new technologies can bring. The report finds that railway companies have already begun to implement various AI technologies for around 20 key use cases. Greater adoption could unlock an estimated $13 billion to $22 billion in impact a year, globally.

At present, only a few railway companies and OEMs are implementing multiple use cases at scale. The report identifies use cases that have been deployed, or have the potential to be deployed, and looks at success factors for implementation.

Railway companies are focusing their efforts on about 20 use cases

Although there are more than a hundred potential use cases, railway companies’ efforts are mostly focused on a few analytical AI use cases. Some gen AI use cases were noted but gen AI was not defined as the preliminary focus of the study and is still nascent in most of the cases. Use cases tend to target business priorities relating to four KPIs: on-time performance, customer engagement, safety, and operational performance. These KPIs are aligned with the top four criteria that passengers, across geographies, use when choosing their mode of transport. A 2022 report by UIC and McKinsey, Boosting passenger preference for rail , identified these criteria as price, safety, reliability, and convenience. Exhibit 1 summarizes the key areas of potential for railway companies looking to leverage AI.

While the range of potential applications is substantial, for most railway companies AI is only an emerging trend—few have implemented any kind of AI at scale with success. Around 25 percent of companies have implemented multiple use cases at scale, and roughly 35 percent of companies have one or two use cases at scale, with other use cases being in pilot stage.

Use cases vary in terms of the maturity of the technology and their adoption by the rail industry. There are around 20 common use cases, at different stages of maturity, across the four groups of business activities: Railway undertakings; infrastructure management; passenger experience; and support functions.

Exhibit 2 plots the most common use cases in terms of maturity and adoption. Use cases higher up on the curve are likely to have been adopted by all the major railway companies. Use cases lower down have been adopted by fewer companies.

In some instances, use cases are identified as being mature but not yet deployed at scale—often when the use case was pioneered in an adjacent industry that helped mature the technology. Take, for example, revenue management systems used in the airline industry. The technology and use case are mature, but the level of adoption in rail is relatively low as reservation systems work differently in each industry.

Would you like to learn more about our Travel, Logistics & Infrastructure Practice ?

Railway undertakings.

Railway undertakings are companies or entities responsible for operating and managing railway services, including the provision of train transportation. Here the most mature analytical AI use cases, in the process of being fully deployed in the field as well as those already deployed and capturing impact, focus on shift planning and energy efficiency. AI solutions that optimize crew planning and shift planning have been deployed across all business units that work in shifts including train drivers, onboard staff, and maintenance operators. In some instances, adoption has generated a 10 to 15 percent optimization in shifts as well as reductions in labor costs.

Use cases in pilot phase, that have shown ability to drive impact through proof of concept (PoC) and are currently being improved before being deployed at scale, include predictive maintenance for rolling stock. Depending on the type of rolling stock and the type of component, predictive maintenance has enabled a 15 percent increase in reliability, and a 20 percent reduction in maintenance costs.

Autonomous trains are currently at the PoC stage. A few railway companies are exploring the potential of semi-autonomous and driverless trains intended to improve capacity and efficiency.

Use cases still in the early stages of exploration include disruption management through AI-powered digital twins of real-time operations.

Infrastructure management

In the context of the railway industry, infrastructure management encompasses planning, operation, and maintenance of the physical and organizational components of rail networks, including tracks, stations, and signaling systems. At-scale use cases are focused on predictive maintenance for rail infrastructure and crew and shift optimization. Use cases in pilot phase span passenger flow management, capacity planning, and real-time traffic management.

Use cases at PoC include inventory management, and maintenance co-pilots. As seen in railway undertakings, nascent use cases involve AI-powered digital twins, in this instance for optimizing the design and construction of infrastructure projects.

Passenger experience

In the railway industry, this refers to the overall satisfaction and comfort of individuals using train services, encompassing aspects such as service quality, convenience, amenities, and customer interactions. At-scale use cases focus on revenue management, security, and providing real-time intermodal information. A quarter of the railway companies in the research sample have pursued the use of artificial vision and predictive algorithms that support security. Other use cases, mostly in pilot phase include passenger flow management and content generation.

Support functions

Support functions include essential non-operational activities such as HR, finance, communication, IT, and procurement that contribute to the overall efficiency and effectiveness of railway undertakings and infrastructure managers.

Most use cases are still nascent or in pilot phases such as people analytics, talent training, software development, and using gen AI to quickly access and understand complex documentation.

Implementing AI: The size of the prize

Overall, various AI technologies can support railway companies to better invest, build, plan, and deliver efficient operations and meet passenger needs. To illustrate, for a €5 billion rail company, AI could deliver around €700 million a year in value (Exhibit 3). 2 Different business models exist for the rail industry. While the baseline may vary, the saving percentages are likely to remain similar as use cases can be applied across all types of rail activities. This includes increasing revenue through revenue management solutions and infrastructure capacity use cases, as well as optimizing labor, maintenance, and corporate costs.

Implementation is key for realizing this value. Many use cases can be successfully designed and deployed at scale within 12 to 18 months to realize value. The journey to become a data-driven company, fully integrating analytical or gen AI use cases in ways of working and operating can be challenging. In fact, over 60 percent of companies across industries experience a stall at some point on their digital transformation journey. 3 Only 28 percent of companies succeed in digital journeys, and many do not have a program to oversee their transformation. See, “ How to restart your stalled digital transformation ,” McKinsey, March 6, 2020.

Railway companies can take inspiration from data-driven companies in adjacent industries. What these companies have in common is that they put six building blocks in place that are key to a successful digital and data transformation: strategic roadmap, talent, agile operating model, technology, data, and adoption and scaling. Companies interested in exploring the power of all AI technologies, and those continuing to innovate with AI at an enterprise level, can focus their efforts on these six key components.

Delivering on the promise of AI may not be easy. Many railway companies have not deployed use cases at scale, yet. For those that have, successful deployments are characterized by investment in dedicated capabilities and talent, and the definition of clear objectives—aligned with business priorities—which helped focus investment on a few game-changing use cases. While transformative, AI can bring a new set of risks that may need to be addressed from the beginning. Accordingly, organizations looking to adopt AI would do well to prioritize strong data governance and robust cyber security.

If this seems daunting it is worth remembering that railway companies do not need to act alone. There is a wide ecosystem of partners and vendors with deep technical and business expertise to support this journey.

Raphaëlle Chapuis is consultant in McKinsey’s Montreal office, Leo Melnikov is a partner in the New York Office, and Nicola Sandri is a senior partner in the Milan office.

The authors wish to thank Marwan Dupuis Guillemet, Mary Ryder, and Sina Fahimi for their contributions to this article.

Explore a career with us

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