Japan is a treat to explore – peaceful temples, friendly people, a fascinating culture, amazing food – and this well balanced tour reveals it all in 12 days.
Three nights in Kyotooptional: cookery class, hire a bikeKoya-sancastle at HimejiHiroshimaMiyajima IslandItsukushima shrineTsumagonight in a ryokanhike a short section of Nakasendo HighwayMatsumotothree nights in Tokyofull day tour and free day
If you haven’t been there, just talk to someone who has. People get hooked on Japan. On their rituals, quirkiness, history and innate welcoming nature...
1 Reviews of Kyoto to Tokyo small group vacation in Japan
4 out of 5 stars
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Reviewed on 25 Apr 2017 by Mary-Anne Rose
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
The cherry blossom in Japan.
2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Take an umbrella, be ready to walk a lot and have fun.
3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, especially the local hotels amd ryokan.
4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Excellent. Very good guide (Kimi) who went beyond the vacation description, taking us on tours, and explaining the local customs. We explored other tours before booking with this company and this was best value for money.
Responsible Travel
As the pioneers of responsible tourism, we've screened this (and every) vacation so that you can travel knowing it will help support the places and people that you visit, and the planet. Read how below.
Planet
Environment Much of the traveling on this trip is done on the famous Bullet train. Journeying by rail produces significantly less carbon emissions per passenger than travel by either air or car, making this one of the most environmentally responsible methods to explore this magnificent country. All travelers in the group will be encouraged to travel with refillable water bottles and purification tablets rather than purchasing water in plastic bottles to minimise waste and your group leader will also be on hand to advise on the responsible discarding of rubbish throughout the trip, recycling wherever possible. We are a big supporter of the protection of endangered species around the world. It is against our Responsible Travel policy for leaders to take passengers to places that use cruel practices or supply or serve foods that are on the endangered species list, such as whale, turtle, tiger, bird’s nests, pangolin and shark.
People
Community: There are many activity options enabling you to interact with local people and learn and understand their traditions. We of course do what we can to demonstrate respect for local culture and tradition. While Japan is known for its 'out there' fashions overall, it is quite a conservative country. We spend time at temples, working monasteries, holy shrines, recreated villages and castles, cooking schools and ancient gardens. At these places it is important to be respectful to the staff and other visitors by wearing clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. During your visit you will receive hospitality from local families and people. A great way to reciprocate is to bring a small gift from your country, eg. animal figurines, pens, flags or stickers. The accommodation for this trip is a mix of small locally owned and operated ryokan (traditional Japanese inns) and guesthouses, where our patronage is directly supporting local families. Our gracious hosts will help guide you around traditional practices and living arrangements. An outdoor onsen (hot spring bath) is a real highlight of a guesthouse stay. There are separate baths for males and females, and as no clothes or swimming costumes are allowed in the hot springs - it's time to shed those inhibitions!
