Osaka Tours in November 2026

Very much enjoyed the variation of the locations - which gave a glimpse of the great variety in Japan. All the destinations were different and travelling by train connected us with the Japanese way of life.

This is a great tour with a diverse itinerary. Although it is advertised as a trip with moderate pace, be ready for a lot of walking, about 12-15,000 steps a day. You should also be ready for the ryokan experience with shared bathroom facilities. The hotels were correct, all clean, with generally small rooms that is the standard for Japan. Transferring your suitcases in advance of day trips, as suggested by Explore, is highly recommended. Japan is very clean, there are no garbage cans on the streets, and public toilets are amazingly clean and are available everywhere and are free. Credit cards are generally accepted, except for a few small restaurants. We were particularly lucky with our guide, Synjun who was super professional, very knowledgeable and kind.

The itinerary was all about discovering the culture of Japan, and this trip delivered in spades. We experienced the people, the urban environment, the religion, the public transport system (of which the Japanese are justifiably proud), and much much more. Our guide Synjun Howearth was extraordinary in his knowledge, his temperament, his sensitivity to our needs, his capability, and his ability to navigate the people & circumstances, so much so that we hardly had to think for ourselves at all. There was just the right balance of activity and relaxation. All in all, a super introduction to a very different culture from our own, exactly what we expected and received. Thank you.

Quite a lot of walking involved but not excessive. Plenty of free time to explore at your own pace. Tour guide Marco was very helpful in many ways, knowledgeable about the customs, food, transport etc. and patiently managed our group of diverse individuals .

It was an extremely well conceived and delivered itinerary within time available. The logistics within Japan using public transport including the Shinkansen were extremely well organised. It was an excellent experience of ancient and modern this fascinating country including staying at temple lodgings. There was sufficient time to spend time away from group for own interests, in my case, spending a day with a Japanese friend in Kamakura and visiting the railway museum in Kyoto.

Our explore leader (Doni) was absolutely great, so patient and friendly and easy to talk to. He not only got us through a busy schedule smoothly but gave us some real insight into how it is to live in Japan.