Simple stays with essential amenities. Typically guesthouses, hostels or hotels rated below 3 stars — clean, no-frills, and great for value-conscious travelers.
Comfortable and reliable 3-star stays. Expect private rooms, en-suite bathrooms, and solid amenities — a great balance between comfort and cost.
Upscale 4-5 star hotels and lodges. Enjoy high-end service, refined comfort, and premium locations — ideal for travelers seeking extra indulgence.
Our guide, Karique, was excellent, informative, friendly & always helpful.
The Shogan Trail was a well thought out itinerary. It was full of interesting
contrasts i.e. large modern & busy cities e.g. Tokyo, historic cities e.g. Kyoto, Nara, & Nagasaki, and rural & coastal Kyushu including a beautiful boat trip amongst many small islands. The food was interesting, but not always suitable for vegetarians & vegans. You must be prepared for sunny warm weather & wet cooler weather. Heavy rain lasting for hours & causing the suspension of the Bullet Train services resulting in congestion of trains & people. The weather means you may not see Mt. Fuji. The leaves were only just beginning their autumn colours.
The dates of my trip were 27th. October to 7th. November. I thoroughly
recommend this trip as a great introduction to Japan.