Epic Japan: Speed Trains & Street Food - 11 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What is the age range for this tour?

  This tour is specifically designed for young travellers aged 18 to 39, under the '18-to-Thirtysomethings' travel style.

• What type of accommodation can I expect on this tour?

  You will stay in hostels for 9 nights, which are multi-share with shared facilities. You will also experience one night in a traditional inn, which offers a multi-share room and shared facilities.

• Are meals included in the tour price?

  No, meals are not included in the tour price, allowing you the flexibility to explore Japan's diverse street food and culinary scene.

• How will we travel between destinations on this tour?

  The tour utilizes Japan's efficient public transportation system, including bullet trains, local trains, buses, and ferries. There will also be a good amount of walking involved to explore cities.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 16 travellers, with an average of 14, ensuring a small and intimate group experience.

• Will there be a tour leader with the group?

  Yes, a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will accompany the group throughout the trip. They are responsible for making your travels hassle-free, providing information, suggesting activities, and recommending local eateries.

• Is this tour suitable for solo travellers?

  Absolutely! This tour is designed for shared accommodation, and single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex. There is no single supplement.

• What activities are included in the tour price?

  The tour includes a Welcome Moment, 'First Night Out' and 'Big Night Out' experiences in Tokyo and Osaka, orientation walks in Tokyo and Takayama, an overnight stay in a traditional inn with an onsen, a visit to Miyajima Island, and a 7-day Japan Rail pass. All transport between destinations and to included activities is also covered.

• What optional activities are available during the tour?

  Optional activities include visits to Akihabara, Harajuku, Meiji Shrine, Yoyogi Park, Asakusa shrine, and Shibuya Crossing in Tokyo. In Takayama, you can visit Sake Street or Hida no Sato Folk Village. Kyoto offers Zen Gardens of Ryōan-ji, Gion walks, Kiyomizu Temple, Nijo Castle, tea ceremonies, calligraphy classes, and day trips to Nara. In Hiroshima, you can visit the Peace Park and Museum or Hiroshima Castle. Miyajima offers hiking around Mt. Misen. Osaka has the Instant Ramen Museum and Osaka Castle Park.

• Is tipping customary in Japan for services?

  Tipping for general services like in restaurants or taxis is not practiced in Japan and may cause confusion. However, tipping your CEO (tour leader) is highly appreciated, with a guideline of $5-7 USD per person per day.

• Are there any luggage restrictions to be aware of?

  Yes, due to travel on Shinkansen (bullet trains), luggage must be less than 160cm in total (sum of height + width + depth). This is roughly carry-on size. Over-sized luggage (between 160-250cm) may incur a fee of 1,000 JPY per leg and is subject to availability; luggage over 251cm is prohibited.

• What is the local custom regarding tattoos and public hot springs (onsens)?

  Tattoos are not common or widely accepted in Japan. While there's no cause for major concern, it's best to cover tattoos when possible, and be aware that you may not be permitted to enter public spas or onsens.

• Who is eligible to use the Japan Rail Pass included in the tour?

  Only foreigners traveling as tourists are able to use a Japan Rail Pass. If you are a Japanese citizen/resident or traveling on a student/business/military/diplomatic visa, you will not be able to take advantage of the rail pass and should advise us at the time of booking.

• What is the physical activity level of this tour?

  This tour has a physical rating of 2 (light), meaning an average level of fitness and mobility is required. Travellers should be able to walk unassisted, climb stairs, and carry their own luggage.

• What should I know about currency, credit cards, and exchanging money?

  The local currency is Japanese Yen. ATMs that accept Visa, Mastercard, and debit cards are available at post offices and 7-Eleven stores. Credit cards are not widely accepted for all purchases outside of major department stores and some restaurants. Money can be exchanged at post offices, some banks, and hotels in major cities, though it can be a slow process.

• Is it recommended to carry an emergency fund?

  Yes, it is recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an emergency fund for unforeseen circumstances that might require changes to the planned route.

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. You are responsible for booking your own flights to and from Japan.

• Are there laundry facilities available during the trip?

  Some hotels may offer laundry services, but they can be expensive. Your CEO can direct you to self-service coin laundries in larger cities. Bringing non-polluting/biodegradable soap is suggested for personal laundry.

• Is there an age restriction for this tour?

  Yes, this tour is specifically designed for young travellers between 18 and 39 years old.

• What type of accommodation can I expect on this tour?

  You will primarily stay in hostels for 9 nights, which feature multi-share rooms and shared facilities. Additionally, you will experience one night in a traditional inn, also with multi-share rooms and shared facilities. Please note that rooming requests for multi-share accommodations cannot be guaranteed due to limited space in Japanese rooms.

• Are meals included in the tour price?

  No, meals are not included in this tour. This allows flexibility for you to explore Japan's diverse culinary scene.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size for this tour is 16 travellers, with an average group size of 14.

• Who will be leading our group during the tour?

  All group trips are accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) who will provide essential information about the places you visit, offer suggestions for activities, recommend local eating spots, and introduce you to local culture. We also utilize local guides for more specific insights.

• What types of transportation are used during the tour?

  You will travel using Japan's efficient public transportation network, including Shinkansen (bullet trains), local trains, subways, buses, and ferries. There will also be a significant amount of walking involved to explore cities and sites.

• Are there any luggage restrictions for train travel?

  Yes, for Shinkansen bullet trains, your luggage must be less than 160cm in total (sum of height + width + depth). Luggage between 160cm and 250cm may incur a fee of 1,000 JPY per luggage per train journey, subject to availability. Luggage over 251cm is prohibited. It's recommended to pack lightly as you will need to carry your own luggage between transport modes.

• Is tipping customary in Japan, and for the tour leader?

  Tipping for general service is not practiced in Japan and may cause confusion. However, if you are happy with your Chief Experience Officer's (CEO) service, a tip of $5-7 USD per day is a recommended way to show appreciation, though the final amount is entirely up to you.

• What should I know about currency and credit card usage in Japan?

  ATMs that accept Visa, Mastercard, and Debit Cards are widely available at Post Offices and 7-11 convenience stores. Credit cards are not as widely accepted for purchases as in other countries, except in some major restaurants and department stores. Money exchange is possible at Post Offices, banks, and some hotels, but can be a slow process.

• What are the health and fitness requirements for this tour?

  An average level of fitness and mobility is required. Travellers must be able to walk without assistance, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own luggage. It is your responsibility to consult a travel doctor for any required inoculations and to carry personal medications in original packaging with a prescription, ensuring they are legal in Japan.

• Is travel insurance compulsory for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory for all participants. At a minimum, your policy must cover medical expenses, emergency evacuation, and repatriation with at least USD200,000 in coverage. We also recommend coverage for personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage.

• Are there any cultural considerations regarding tattoos?

  Tattoos are not common or widely accepted in Japan. While not a cause for concern, it's best to cover your tattoos when possible. Please note that you may not be permitted to enter public spas or onsens (hot springs) with visible tattoos.

• Can I use a Japan Rail Pass on this tour?

  Only foreigners traveling as tourists are eligible to use a Japan Rail Pass. If you are a Japanese citizen/resident or traveling on a student/business/military/diplomatic visa, please notify us at the time of booking as you will not be able to take advantage of the rail pass.

• Are there laundry facilities available during the trip?

  Some hotels offer laundry services, but they can be very expensive. Your CEO can direct you to self-service coin laundries in larger cities. We suggest bringing non-polluting/biodegradable soap for hand-washing if you plan to do your own laundry.

• How does solo travel work with accommodation on this tour?

  Solo travellers are welcome on this tour. Our group trips are designed for shared accommodation, meaning single travellers are paired in twin or multi-share rooms with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip without an extra cost. If you prefer a private room, you can book the 'My Own Room' option for an additional fee.