Active Japan: Kyoto & Okinawa Island Hopping - 10 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What is the tour's focus or style?

  This is an 'Active Japan' tour, focusing on island hopping, day hikes, sea kayaking, and cycling through National Parks and islands like Ishigaki, Yanbaru, Taketomi, and Iriomote. It combines cultural exploration in Kyoto with active adventures in Okinawa.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 16 travelers, with an average of 14.

• What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

  Accommodation for 9 nights is in twin-share hotels.

• Are meals included in the tour price?

  Yes, the tour includes 9 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 3 dinners.

• What are the main highlights and activities included in this tour?

  Highlights include trekking through Kyoto on the Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine hike, kayaking to white sand islands off Yanbaru National Park, and riding a traditional Sabani boat through Okinawa's waters. Other activities include the Kurama to Kibune trek, Ibe-dake Forest Trail Trek, Taketomi island cycling, and mangrove kayaking on Iriomote Island.

• What modes of transportation are used during the tour?

  The tour utilizes a variety of transportation methods including planes (for internal flights), local trains, walking, private vehicles, gondolas, public buses, bicycles, and the local metro.

• Are there any optional activities available in Kyoto?

  Yes, optional activities in Kyoto include visits to Nijo Castle and Gardens (600 JPY per person), Kinkaku-ji Golden Pavilion (500 JPY per person), and the Zen Gardens of Ryōan-ji (500 JPY per person).

• Who will be leading the tour group?

  The group will be accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) and local guides throughout the trip.

• Do I need travel insurance for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. It must cover medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of USD200,000. It's also recommended to cover personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage.

• What are the age requirements for travelers on this tour?

  Travelers must be at least 18 years old to travel unaccompanied. Minors aged 12 and above can join if accompanied by a guardian who is over 21 years old.

• What is the tipping policy in Japan and for the tour leader?

  Tipping is generally not practiced for local services in Japan and may cause confusion. However, tipping your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) is appreciated, with a guideline of $5-7 USD per person, per day.

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the tour price.

• What are the visa and entry requirements for Japan?

  All countries require a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity. It is your responsibility to check with your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements based on your nationality.

• What are the general safety and security guidelines for the trip?

  It's recommended to check your government's travel advice. Use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables and leave expensive jewelry at home. Hotels often have safety deposit boxes. In cities, it's advisable to stay in small groups and use taxis at night. Water-based activities should only be done with guides. Swimming and snorkeling are at your own risk.

• Are there any specific rules regarding behavior on the trip?

  Illegal drugs will not be tolerated, as they contravene local laws and endanger the group. Exploitation of people in the sex trade is also strictly against the tour's philosophy, and a CEO has the right to expel any member for these reasons.

• Will I have my own room on this tour?

  If you have booked the 'My Own Room' option, you will receive your own single room for all night stops.

• What is the main focus of this tour?

  This 10-day island-hopping adventure focuses on active exploration in Kyoto and the Okinawa islands, including thrilling day hikes, sea kayaking, and cycling through national parks and islands, allowing travelers to explore Japan in a new way.

• What kind of physical activities are included in this tour?

  The tour includes iconic hikes in Kyoto (Kurama to Kibune, Fushimi Inari Taisha), a guided walk through Yambaru Forest, sea kayaking to Yasuda island, a traditional Sabani boat tour with optional snorkeling, cycling on Taketomi Island, and mangrove kayaking/hiking on Iriomote Island.

• What type of accommodation is provided on this tour?

  Accommodation is primarily hotel stays for all 9 nights, typically on a twin-share basis. A 'My Own Room' option is available for single occupancy.

• Are meals included in the tour price?

  Yes, 9 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 3 dinners are included in the tour.

• What is the maximum group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 16 travelers, with an average group size of 14.

• Who will be leading the tour group?

  The tour will be led by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) and local guides throughout the journey.

• Is tipping customary in Japan for services?

  Tipping for general services (restaurants, taxis) is not practiced in Japan and can cause confusion. However, tipping the tour operator CEO is appreciated for outstanding service, with a guideline of $5–$7 USD per person, per day.

• Are there any optional activities available during the tour?

  Yes, in Kyoto, optional activities include visiting Nijo Castle and Gardens (600 JPY), Kinkaku-ji Golden Pavilion (500 JPY), and the Zen Gardens of Ryōan-ji (500 JPY).

• What are the primary modes of transportation used during the tour?

  Transportation includes planes (for internal flights), local trains, walking, private vehicles, gondolas, public buses, bicycles, and the local metro.

• Is travel insurance required for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory and must cover a minimum of USD200,000 for medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation.

• What is the minimum age to join this tour?

  The minimum age to travel unaccompanied on this tour is 18. For minors traveling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour.