Japan Guided and Escorted Tours
There are many Japan escorted tours—each great in its own right— to choose from. Here are the three tours that we recommend:
- Hike Mount Fuji with a guide: Hiking this iconic mountain of Japan can be a daunting undertaking, so having a guide is a great option. Your guide can help you safely get up to the peak. As the entire hike could take up to six hours, having a companion who knows about the route is always a good idea.
- Follow the pilgrimage trail in Kumano Kodo with a guide: Immerse yourself in Japanese culture on a multi-day hike along the iconic Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trail. Hike with other like-minded travelers throughout Kyoto and stay in ryokans, traditional Japanese inns, and guesthouses. Your local guide will be by your side to give you insights into the culture and history of the area. With all the logistics prepared for you in advance, you can just focus on enjoying the tour.
- Explore the historic sites in Nara on a guided tour: Travel through historical and cultural landmarks including Kasuga-Taisha, Kofuku-ji, and Nara Park, escorted by a guide. If you are into history, a guided tour around the ancient region of Nara is the best way to explore the area and learn about the spiritual rituals in different temples.
Japan guided and escorted tours based on budget
- Luxury guided tours in Japan: If you are looking for an all-inclusive guided trip to Japan, you can expect comfortable flight transfers, four- and five-star hotel accommodations, and exclusive tours around popular sights like Koyasan. Enjoy a private guided tour around Hiroshima and learn more about the history, or be guided around the top kaiseki spots in Tokyo by a local culinary expert.
- Budget guided tours in Japan: These tours can be the perfect solution for those traveling on a shoestring budget. Stay in local ryokan accommodations, guesthouses, and hostels to save up for the actual touring experience in Japan. Self-guided tours are also a great way to explore Japan on a budget. This is especially good on hiking routes like the Kumano Kodo, or if you’re wanting to check out the best budget street food eats in Kyoto.
Japan escorted tours based on popular travel theme
Japan has tons of excursions to enjoy, from adventure to wildlife to history. Here are some of the most popular Japan guided tour themes.
Travel experience and benefits of Japan guided and escorted tours
- Hit up a local sake tasting at a traditional brewery on a guided tour. Learn all about the sake making process from expert brewers and enjoy exclusive tastings.
- Guided tours often mean that your luggage transfers are all taken care of. That way you can completely focus on your tour.
- Having the logistics and routes set up for you in advance, you can simply enjoy your time in Japan. No learning bullet train schedules or finding bus stations.
Tips when doing guided tours of Japan
- Ask your guides for the best restaurant recommendations, off-the-beaten-path destinations and free-time activities.
- Japan is not big into tipping culture. In fact, handing out money is considered rude in the country. You can instead give your guide a small gift to show your appreciation.
- Punctuality is highly valued in Japan. Whether you are on a group guided tour, or a private guided tour, ensure that you arrive on time.