Solo-ish Japan - 11 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What kind of experience is this tour designed for?

  This 11-day 'Solo-ish' adventure is designed for solo travelers who want a mix of guided exploration with an expert Chief Experience Officer (CEO) and fellow travelers, alongside plenty of freedom to explore solo.

• What are the main highlights of the tour?

  The tour highlights include a Japanese cooking class, visiting Shibuya crossing, exploring Asakusa with your CEO, an overnight stay at a Japanese Temple, exploring Matsumoto Castle, touring Takefu Knife Village, an overnight stay at a traditional Japanese Ryokan, visiting Hiroshima Peace Park, visiting Miyajima Island, and exploring Gion with your CEO.

• What is the accommodation like on this tour?

  Accommodation includes 8 nights in hotels (twin-share), 1 night at a Temple stay (multi-share), and 1 night at a traditional Ryokan (twin-share).

• Are there any exceptions to the standard rooming policy for solo travelers?

  Yes, single travelers joining group trips are typically paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex, with no single supplement. However, exceptions apply for the multi-share temple stay on night 3, and also on night 6 starting January 2026.

• What meals are included during the tour?

  The tour includes 10 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 3 dinners.

• What modes of transportation are used on this trip?

  We will use bullet trains, local trains, private vehicles, and walking to get around Japan efficiently.

• What is the group size for this tour?

  The group size ranges from a minimum of 1 to a maximum of 16 travelers, with an average of 12 participants.

• Is there a minimum or maximum age requirement for this tour?

  Travelers must be a minimum of 18 years old and a maximum of 100 years old.

• What is the physical rating of this tour?

  This tour has a physical rating of 3. You should be prepared for significant walking (approximately 15,000 steps daily) and carrying your own luggage through busy train stations and streets.

• How should travelers dress during the tour, especially when visiting holy sites?

  In Asia, a more conservative dress standard is recommended. We suggest loose, lightweight, long clothing. When visiting temples or other holy sites, please dress respectfully and avoid very short shorts/skirts and singlets/tank tops.

• What is the policy on tattoos in Japan, particularly regarding public spas and onsens?

  Tattoos are not common or widely accepted in Japan. While there's no cause for concern, it's best to cover tattoos when possible. Please note that you may not be permitted to enter public spas or onsens (hot springs) if your tattoos are visible.

• Are there any luggage size restrictions for this tour due to bullet train travel?

  Yes, luggage must be less than 160cm in total (length + width + height), which is roughly the size of most airline carry-on baggage. This is due to restrictions on the Shinkansen bullet trains.

• Will I always have access to my main luggage throughout the tour?

  No, on certain days (e.g., Day 3, Day 6, Day 9), your main luggage will be sent via Japan's takkyubin service (luggage transfer) to the next destination. You will not have access to your main luggage for approximately 24 hours during these transfers, so you must pack an overnight bag with essentials.

• What is the currency in Japan and how can I handle money?

  The local currency is Japanese Yen (JPY). ATMs that accept Visa, Mastercard, and debit cards are widely available at post offices and convenience stores. Credit cards are widely accepted, but some places only accept cash. Money can also be exchanged at post offices, some banks, and hotels, though this can sometimes be a slow process.

• What is the tipping policy in Japan and for the CEO?

  Tipping for services (e.g., at restaurants or in taxis) is not practiced in Japan and may cause confusion. However, tipping your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) is appreciated as a way to recognize excellent service. A guideline of $5-7 USD per person, per day, can be used, but the amount is entirely a personal preference.

• Is travel insurance required for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. At a minimum, you must be covered for medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation (minimum USD $200,000). We strongly recommend that your policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage and personal effects.

• What if I have dietary requirements?

  Your CEO will strive to cater to all dietary requirements. However, please note that vegetarianism, veganism, and gluten-free options are very uncommon in Japan, especially in rural areas, which may lead to a more limited selection for you.

• Who will be leading the tour?

  The tour will be led by one of our Chief Experience Officers (CEO) and local guides throughout. The CEO's role is to facilitate your travels, provide information on the places visited, offer suggestions for activities, and recommend local eating venues.

• What safety and security measures should I be aware of during the trip?

  We recommend checking your government's travel advice. For the safe keeping of valuables, use a neck wallet or money belt, leave valuable jewelry at home, and utilize hotel safety deposit boxes. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. Your CEO has the authority to amend the itinerary if deemed necessary due to safety concerns. During free time, exercise good judgment; consider staying in small groups and taking taxis for nighttime excursions. Water-based activities are at your own risk unless accompanied by a guide.

• What optional activities are available during the trip?

  Optional activities include a visit to Nishiki Market in Kyoto. On your designated 'Me Day' in Kyoto, you have the option to hike Fushimi Inari Shrine, visit the Kinkaku-ji Golden Temple, or join your CEO for a zen garden visit followed by a tour of Arashiyama Bamboo forest and Togetsukyo Bridge. All activities on the 'Me Day' are optional and at the traveler's expense.

• What should LGBTQ+ travelers know about safety and travel considerations on this trip?

  The safety and well-being of all our travelers, including those who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community, is a priority. We encourage you to visit our LGBTQ+ page for useful resources to ensure you feel safe and comfortable throughout your trip, including tools like Equaldex to help with planning.

• How much spending money will I need for my trip?

  Spending money requirements vary for each traveler depending on personal habits like drinks, shopping, and optional activities. Please consider your own spending habits when budgeting for your trip, beyond the included meals and activities.

• Do I need an emergency fund for unexpected situations?

  Yes, we recommend having access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used in rare circumstances outside our control, such as a natural disaster requiring a change to the planned route.

• What is the nature of this 'Solo-ish' adventure tour?

  This 11-day adventure is designed for solo travelers, offering a mix of guided exploration with an expert CEO and fellow travelers, alongside ample free time to explore independently. It's a blend of group experience and personal freedom.

• What types of accommodation are included in this tour?

  The tour includes 8 nights in hotels (twin-share), 1 night at a traditional Japanese Temple (multi-share), and 1 night at a traditional Japanese Ryokan (twin-share).

• Is there an extra cost for solo travelers regarding accommodation?

  No, our group trips are designed for shared accommodation, and single travelers are paired in twin or multi-share rooms with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip, with exceptions for the temple and ryokan stays.

• What meals are included during the tour?

  The tour includes 10 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 3 dinners. While not all meals are included to offer flexibility, your CEO will provide recommendations for local eating spots.

• Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?

  Our CEOs will always strive to cater to dietary requirements. However, please be aware that Vegetarianism/Veganism and Gluten Free options are very uncommon in Japan, especially in rural areas, which may mean a more limited selection.

• What kind of transportation will be used during the tour?

  We will primarily use the efficient Japanese bullet trains and local trains, along with some private vehicle transfers and a significant amount of walking. Be prepared to be on your feet for most of the day, averaging about 15,000 steps daily.

• How is luggage handled during bullet train travel?

  During bullet train rides, your main luggage will be sent ahead using Japan’s 'takkyubin' (luggage transfer) service. You will not have access to your main luggage for approximately 24 hours, so you must pack an overnight bag. Only one bag per passenger is permitted for transfer without an additional charge.

• Are there any luggage size restrictions?

  Yes, luggage must be less than 160cm in total (length + width + height), similar to standard airline carry-on sizes. This is due to restrictions on Shinkansen bullet trains.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 16 travelers, with an average group size of 12.

• Who will be leading the tour?

  The tour will be led by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) and supported by local guides throughout. The CEO's role is to enhance your travel experience, provide information, suggest activities, and help you navigate Japan.

• What is the policy on tattoos and visiting public spas or onsens?

  Tattoos are not widely accepted in Japan. While not a cause for concern, it is recommended to cover your tattoos when possible, as you may be prohibited from entering public spas or onsens (hot springs).

• Is travel insurance compulsory for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You must have coverage for medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation (minimum USD200,000). We also recommend coverage for personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and lost luggage.

• What is the local currency and how should I manage my money?

  The local currency is the Japanese Yen (JPY). ATMs that accept Visa, Mastercard, and Debit Cards are available at most Post Offices and convenience stores. Credit cards are widely accepted, but some places only accept cash. It's advisable to carry a backup card and have access to an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) for emergencies.

• What is the tipping etiquette in Japan?

  Tipping for local services (restaurants, taxis, etc.) is not customary in Japan and may cause confusion. However, tipping your CEO is appreciated if you are happy with their service, with a guideline of $5-7 USD per person per day.

• What are some of the main highlights included in this tour?

  Highlights include a Japanese cooking class, visiting Shibuya crossing, exploring Asakusa with your CEO, an overnight temple stay, exploring Matsumoto Castle, touring Takefu Knife Village, an overnight ryokan stay, visiting Hiroshima Peace Park and Miyajima Island, and exploring Gion with your CEO.

• Are there any optional activities available?

  Yes, there are optional activities such as a Nishiki Market visit in Kyoto. On your 'Me Day' in Kyoto, you have the option to hike Fushimi Inari Shrine, visit Kinkaku-ji Golden Temple, or join your CEO for a zen garden visit and a tour of Arashiyama Bamboo forest and Togetsukyo Bridge (all optional activities are at the traveler's expense).

• What should I know about local dress customs?

  Dress standards in Asia are generally more conservative. We recommend packing loose, lightweight, long clothing. When visiting temples or other holy sites, please dress respectfully and avoid very short shorts/skirts and singlets/tank tops.

• What is the physical rating for this tour?

  The physical rating for this tour is 3. This indicates a moderate level of activity, requiring you to be able to walk significant distances daily (around 15,000 steps) and carry your own luggage through train stations and streets.