Japan private tour, authentic journey

Planet

All the ground agents we work with are committed to traveling responsibly and our Japan ground agents especially so. They believe that in order to gain the most enjoyment out of your travels, your trip needs to include elements which support the country’s economic development, there environmental protection and social and cultural awareness.

This trip relies heavily on train travel rather than chauffeured car. By using public transport you are helping to reduce congestion in the cities and cars in the countryside, avoiding fumes and overcrowding. The trains are an efficient and enjoyable way to see the country.

Waste is a big issue for everyone and our ground agents have implemented several measures to make sure your trip doesn’t contribute. They have banned disposable wet towels you would normally find in your vehicle after a tour and replaced them with an environmentally friendly alternative (non-toxic and biodegradable) napkin.

Over the past year, our ground agents have saved and recycled 200,000 plastic water bottles and replaced with reusable aluminium bottles. Replaced over 100,000 plastic wrapped napkins and replaced with a biodegradable alternative. Generated over $125,000 for social enterprises and contributed over $175,000 towards community development projects. This is achieved through the help of our guests, whose vacation fee contributes to these projects. Our Japan ground agent has achieved Travelife status which provides training, tools and guidelines for sustainable practices in the travel industry. Their standards promote compliance with guidelines on labour conditions, human rights, environment, biodiversity and fair business practices. The Travelife Sustainability System resulted from the collaboration between ABTA (Association of British Travel Agents), the UK Travel Association and the Dutch ANVR Travel Association, supported by the European Commission, Lund University and Leeds Metropolitan University.
This trip relies heavily on train travel rather than chauffeured car. By using public transport you are helping to reduce congestion in the cities and cars in the countryside, avoiding fumes and overcrowding. The trains are an efficient and enjoyable way to see the country.

People

During your trip you will stay in a traditional Japanese Ryokan. This family run establishment offers traditional Japanese hospitality and cuisine and along with supporting local staff in working here, helps keep the traditional style of accommodation alive.

You will also have the unforgettable chance to stay in a 1000 year old Buddhist temple, converted to supply a comfortable nights stay and authentic experience which contributes to the maintenance of the temple and livelihood of those that work there.

No trip to Japan is complete without a journey on its infamously efficient rail system. There is very little use of a car during this trip and your train ticket includes local train services. You will travel with the locals as a local, making use of the facilities along the way.

You will partake in a traditional tea ceremony - this fascinating tour through Japan's affiliation with tea is run directly by local experts. You will also have access to an english speaking local guide - employed by our ground agents to ensure you have a memorable and informative stay.