Highlights of Japan small group tour

Planet

Activity & Environment:
As we are a firm believer in traveling responsibly, during this trip we travel to different destinations across Japan using public transport, so our visit minimises negative impacts. Information is also provided to educate guests how to separate waste and recycle in Japan. This trip offers many opportunities for our clients to go shopping and purchase souvenirs, therefore reusable shopping bags are also encouraged to be used. When visiting Miyajjma there will be opportunities to spot animals such as deer. These animals are in the wild and are free to move around without restrictions. therefore our trip leaders encourage clients to stick to advised routes in order to minimise this. We also operate a ‘leave no trace’ policy, whereby we ensure no rubbish including plastic has been left behind in the places we visit.

Water:
Water is an important issue and whilst traveling we must stay hydrated, it is also vital that we have a system for providing clean water without causing avoidable waste with plastic bottles. Wherever possible we provide safe alternative sources of water to buying single use plastic bottles. Our guests are encouraged to bring reusable water bottles which can be refilled throughout the duration of this trip, this reduces the reliance on plastic bottles and lessens unnecessary waste.

UK Office:
It all starts at home where we work towards reducing our carbon footprint in our offices through energy conservation measures, recycling policies and the promotion of cycling and walking as a means for our staff to commute. Our head office has become a plastic-free zone with the use of plastic bottles being banned in our head office and we distributed reusable water bottles and tote bags to every staff member. We also support a large number of community and environmental projects in different parts of the world and try to give something back to the places we visit.

People

Accommodation and Meals:
On this trip we spend one night in a traditional Japanese guesthouse in Nikko and the remaining nights in comfortable, locally or Japanese owned hotels. The accommodation on this trip is run locally, employing residents from the community. We try to avoid international hotels where possible to show our support to Japanese businesses. Each hotel is trying to contribute and make changes to be more sustainable - by choosing not to replace bedding and towels every day, and only providing additional amenities upon request. During this trip, locally sourced ingredients will also be used where meals are provided, otherwise our local guides are able to advise clients to dine at other community cafes and restaurants to try out local specialities.

Local crafts and culture:
This trip offers many opportunities for clients to immerse themselves with the Japanese culture, by visiting an array of authentic sites including Tokyo’s most famous shrine and Asakusa’s oldest Buddhist temple. Our visit also stops off at Nishiki Market in Kyoto, where clients are encouraged to explore the mile-long food markets and purchase local produce. Handmade souvenirs including wooden and bamboo chop sticks can also be found, supporting the work and trade of local residents.