This private and customizable tour for Tokyo is perfect for guests who would like to have their own itinerary planned based on their interests and preferences, allowing guests to experience the city at their own pace. 

Discover Tokyo at your own pace on this fully customizable 6-hour private tour with an English-speaking (or other language) tour guide. Create a dream tour that’s perfect for your interests and preferences.

With many options and attractions to choose from in the city, it may seem easier to just choose a set tour that’s already available out there, but after you book this Custom Tour, we’ll work closely with you on designing the perfect tour that is only for you. To make it easier for you, after the tour is booked, you’ll receive a Custom Tour form with various potential options and themes for you to easily choose from. We’ll also consider all your preferences: whether you are into Japanese culture, history, food, nature and scenery, seasonal experiences such as Winter Illuminations, or other, you’ll be able to easily make your selections and identify any spots on your wish-list before we start planning away for you.

As for mode of transportation, you’ll have the option to choose public transportation option (utilizing the excellent train and bus systems) or the private vehicle option (with a meticulously clean and comfortable chartered vehicle with personal driver) to take you around the city for your own comfort. The choice is yours. We are just here to make the planning and arranging process easy for you.

Price: Select number of people under Booking Request for pricing

 Included:

• 6-hour fully customized tour with reservations and bookings made on your behalf (restaurant or other venue reservations must fall within tour hours)
• Transportation within the city only (either public transportation or private vehicle, based on your booking)
• English-speaking professional tour guide (or other language may be available based on request)
• Hotel pickup and drop-off (if the hotel is within city center)

Excluded:

• Meals, food and drinks not specified
• Fees for optional tours and activities for guests and tour guide
• Gratuities (optional)

Attire

The tour operates in all weather conditions (except when there is a typhoon or other extreme situations). Please dress appropriately for all weather conditions. In such case, please note that the tour may change slightly to accommodate for the weather.

Non-Smoking

While most places we visit may be non-smoking establishments, there are some places along the way that may allow smoking in designated areas. Please take note of this for guests who are sensitive to smoke.

Age Requirement

There is no age requirement, but a reservation must be made for all guests. Passports may be required to verify age on the day of the tour. Children that are age 11 and under must be accompanied by an adult that is age 18 or older.

Payment

All bookings are payable via Stripe (Booking Checkout) or Flywire. Confirmations regarding your booking will be sent at least 10 days before your activity date.

Cancellation Policy

Moderate Cancellation Policy:

What if I’ve visited this city before on a previous trip?

Every city in Japan has a lot to offer. There are many aspects to the city and many hidden and local spots that you may not have seen or heard of before. In the Custom Tour form that will be sent to you after your booking, you’ll be able to let us know of any attractions you have already visited and would not like to see again on this tour. We will carefully review your requests and will create an itinerary based on your preferences.

This private and customizable tour for Shirakawago is perfect for guests who would like to have their own itinerary planned based on their interests and preferences, allowing guests to experience the city at their own pace. 

Discover Shirakawago at your own pace on this fully customizable 4-hour full day private tour with an English-speaking (or other language) tour guide. Create a dream tour that’s perfect for your interests and preferences.

With many options and attractions to choose from in the city, it may seem easier to just choose a set tour that’s already available out there, but after you book this Custom Tour, we’ll work closely with you on designing the perfect tour that is only for you. To make it easier for you, after the tour is booked, you’ll receive a Custom Tour form with various potential options and themes for you to easily choose from. We’ll also consider all your preferences: whether you are into Japanese culture, history, food, nature and scenery, seasonal experiences such as Winter Illuminations, or other, you’ll be able to easily make your selections and identify any spots on your wish-list before we start planning away for you.

As for mode of transportation, you’ll have the option to choose public transportation option (utilizing the excellent train and bus systems) or the private vehicle option (with a meticulously clean and comfortable chartered vehicle with personal driver) to take you around the city for your own comfort. The choice is yours. We are just here to make the planning and arranging process easy for you.

Price: Select number of people under Booking Request for pricing

 Included:

• 4-hour fully customized tour with reservations and bookings made on your behalf (restaurant or other venue reservations must fall within tour hours)
• Transportation within the city only (either public transportation or private vehicle, based on your booking)
• English-speaking professional tour guide (or other language may be available based on request)
• Hotel pickup and drop-off (if the hotel is within city center)

Excluded:

• Meals, food and drinks not specified
• Fees for optional tours and activities for guests and tour guide
• Gratuities (optional)

PLEASE FILL OUT THE TOUR FORM:

After your booking, you will receive a link to the Shirakawago Form (within 48 hours) that asks for pertinent information required for this booking. Please ensure that this Shirakawago Form is completed accurately at least 7 days before your tour date

Attire

The tour operates in all weather conditions (except when there is a typhoon or other extreme situations). Please dress appropriately for all weather conditions. In such case, please note that the tour may change slightly to accommodate for the weather.

Non-Smoking

While most places we visit may be non-smoking establishments, there are some places along the way that may allow smoking in designated areas. Please take note of this for guests who are sensitive to smoke.

Age Requirement

There is no age requirement, but a reservation must be made for all guests. Passports may be required to verify age on the day of the tour. Children that are age 11 and under must be accompanied by an adult that is age 18 or older.

Payment

All bookings are payable via Stripe (Booking Checkout) or Flywire. Confirmations regarding your booking will be sent at least 10 days before your activity date.

Cancellation Policy

Moderate Cancellation Policy:

What if I’ve visited this city before on a previous trip?

Every city in Japan has a lot to offer. There are many aspects to the city and many hidden and local spots that you may not have seen or heard of before. In the Custom Tour form that will be sent to you after your booking, you’ll be able to let us know of any attractions you have already visited and would not like to see again on this tour. We will carefully review your requests and will create an itinerary based on your preferences.

This private and customizable tour for Akita is perfect for guests who would like to have their own itinerary planned based on their interests and preferences, allowing guests to experience the city at their own pace. 

Discover Akita at your own pace on this fully customizable 8-hour full day private tour with an English-speaking (or other language) tour guide. Create a dream tour that’s perfect for your interests and preferences.

With many options and attractions to choose from in the city, it may seem easier to just choose a set tour that’s already available out there, but after you book this Custom Tour, we’ll work closely with you on designing the perfect tour that is only for you. To make it easier for you, after the tour is booked, you’ll receive a Custom Tour form with various potential options and themes for you to easily choose from. We’ll also consider all your preferences: whether you are into Japanese culture, history, food, nature and scenery, seasonal experiences such as Winter Illuminations, or other, you’ll be able to easily make your selections and identify any spots on your wish-list before we start planning away for you.

As for mode of transportation, you’ll have the option to choose public transportation option (utilizing the excellent train and bus systems) or the private vehicle option (with a meticulously clean and comfortable chartered vehicle with personal driver) to take you around the city for your own comfort. The choice is yours. We are just here to make the planning and arranging process easy for you.

Price: Select number of people under Booking Request for pricing

 Included:

• 8-hour fully customized tour with reservations and bookings made on your behalf (restaurant or other venue reservations must fall within tour hours)
• Transportation within the city only (either public transportation or private vehicle, based on your booking)
• English-speaking professional tour guide (or other language may be available based on request)
• Hotel pickup and drop-off (if the hotel is within city center)

Excluded:

• Meals, food and drinks not specified
• Fees for optional tours and activities for guests and tour guide
• Gratuities (optional)

Attire

The tour operates in all weather conditions (except when there is a typhoon or other extreme situations). Please dress appropriately for all weather conditions. In such case, please note that the tour may change slightly to accommodate for the weather.

Non-Smoking

While most places we visit may be non-smoking establishments, there are some places along the way that may allow smoking in designated areas. Please take note of this for guests who are sensitive to smoke.

Age Requirement

There is no age requirement, but a reservation must be made for all guests. Passports may be required to verify age on the day of the tour. Children that are age 11 and under must be accompanied by an adult that is age 18 or older.

Payment

All bookings are payable via Stripe (Booking Checkout) or Flywire. Confirmations regarding your booking will be sent at least 10 days before your activity date.

Cancellation Policy

Moderate Cancellation Policy:

What if I’ve visited this city before on a previous trip?

Every city in Japan has a lot to offer. There are many aspects to the city and many hidden and local spots that you may not have seen or heard of before. In the Custom Tour form that will be sent to you after your booking, you’ll be able to let us know of any attractions you have already visited and would not like to see again on this tour. We will carefully review your requests and will create an itinerary based on your preferences.

This private and customizable tour for Aomori is perfect for guests who would like to have their own itinerary planned based on their interests and preferences, allowing guests to experience the city at their own pace. 

Discover Aomori at your own pace on this fully customizable 4-hour full day private tour with an English-speaking (or other language) tour guide. Create a dream tour that’s perfect for your interests and preferences.

With many options and attractions to choose from in the city, it may seem easier to just choose a set tour that’s already available out there, but after you book this Custom Tour, we’ll work closely with you on designing the perfect tour that is only for you. To make it easier for you, after the tour is booked, you’ll receive a Custom Tour form with various potential options and themes for you to easily choose from. We’ll also consider all your preferences: whether you are into Japanese culture, history, food, nature and scenery, seasonal experiences such as Winter Illuminations, or other, you’ll be able to easily make your selections and identify any spots on your wish-list before we start planning away for you.

As for mode of transportation, you’ll have the option to choose public transportation option (utilizing the excellent train and bus systems) or the private vehicle option (with a meticulously clean and comfortable chartered vehicle with personal driver) to take you around the city for your own comfort. The choice is yours. We are just here to make the planning and arranging process easy for you.

Price: Select number of people under Booking Request for pricing

 Included:

• 4-hour fully customized tour with reservations and bookings made on your behalf (restaurant or other venue reservations must fall within tour hours)
• Transportation within the city only (either public transportation or private vehicle, based on your booking)
• English-speaking professional tour guide (or other language may be available based on request)
• Hotel pickup and drop-off (if the hotel is within city center)

Excluded:

• Meals, food and drinks not specified
• Fees for optional tours and activities for guests and tour guide
• Gratuities (optional)

PLEASE FILL OUT THE TOUR FORM:

After your booking, you will receive a link to the Aomori Form (within 48 hours) that asks for pertinent information required for this booking. Please ensure that this Aomori Form is completed accurately at least 7 days before your tour date

Attire

The tour operates in all weather conditions (except when there is a typhoon or other extreme situations). Please dress appropriately for all weather conditions. In such case, please note that the tour may change slightly to accommodate for the weather.

Non-Smoking

While most places we visit may be non-smoking establishments, there are some places along the way that may allow smoking in designated areas. Please take note of this for guests who are sensitive to smoke.

Age Requirement

There is no age requirement, but a reservation must be made for all guests. Passports may be required to verify age on the day of the tour. Children that are age 11 and under must be accompanied by an adult that is age 18 or older.

Payment

All bookings are payable via Stripe (Booking Checkout) or Flywire. Confirmations regarding your booking will be sent at least 10 days before your activity date.

Cancellation Policy

Moderate Cancellation Policy:

What if I’ve visited this city before on a previous trip?

Every city in Japan has a lot to offer. There are many aspects to the city and many hidden and local spots that you may not have seen or heard of before. In the Custom Tour form that will be sent to you after your booking, you’ll be able to let us know of any attractions you have already visited and would not like to see again on this tour. We will carefully review your requests and will create an itinerary based on your preferences.

How far in advance should I book?

Preparing a customized tour requires some time, especially if reservations for restaurants or other venues are required. We recommend making a reservation as early as possible. Ideally, it should be 3 months before your travel date, or 1 month before the travel date at the very least. For Custom Tour bookings that are requested with less than 7 days before the travel date, we may not be able to arrange your custom tour in time so your booking request may be cancelled and you will receive a full refund.

This private and customizable tour for Shirakawago is perfect for guests who would like to have their own itinerary planned based on their interests and preferences, allowing guests to experience the city at their own pace. 

Discover Shirakawago at your own pace on this fully customizable 8-hour full day private tour with an English-speaking (or other language) tour guide. Create a dream tour that’s perfect for your interests and preferences.

With many options and attractions to choose from in the city, it may seem easier to just choose a set tour that’s already available out there, but after you book this Custom Tour, we’ll work closely with you on designing the perfect tour that is only for you. To make it easier for you, after the tour is booked, you’ll receive a Custom Tour form with various potential options and themes for you to easily choose from. We’ll also consider all your preferences: whether you are into Japanese culture, history, food, nature and scenery, seasonal experiences such as Winter Illuminations, or other, you’ll be able to easily make your selections and identify any spots on your wish-list before we start planning away for you.

As for mode of transportation, you’ll have the option to choose public transportation option (utilizing the excellent train and bus systems) or the private vehicle option (with a meticulously clean and comfortable chartered vehicle with personal driver) to take you around the city for your own comfort. The choice is yours. We are just here to make the planning and arranging process easy for you.

Price: Select number of people under Booking Request for pricing

 Included:

• 8-hour fully customized tour with reservations and bookings made on your behalf (restaurant or other venue reservations must fall within tour hours)
• Transportation within the city only (either public transportation or private vehicle, based on your booking)
• English-speaking professional tour guide (or other language may be available based on request)
• Hotel pickup and drop-off (if the hotel is within city center)

Excluded:

• Meals, food and drinks not specified
• Fees for optional tours and activities for guests and tour guide
• Gratuities (optional)

PLEASE FILL OUT THE TOUR FORM:

After your booking, you will receive a link to the Shirakawago Form (within 48 hours) that asks for pertinent information required for this booking. Please ensure that this Shirakawago Form is completed accurately at least 7 days before your tour date

Attire

The tour operates in all weather conditions (except when there is a typhoon or other extreme situations). Please dress appropriately for all weather conditions. In such case, please note that the tour may change slightly to accommodate for the weather.

Non-Smoking

While most places we visit may be non-smoking establishments, there are some places along the way that may allow smoking in designated areas. Please take note of this for guests who are sensitive to smoke.

Age Requirement

There is no age requirement, but a reservation must be made for all guests. Passports may be required to verify age on the day of the tour. Children that are age 11 and under must be accompanied by an adult that is age 18 or older.

Payment

All bookings are payable via Stripe (Booking Checkout) or Flywire. Confirmations regarding your booking will be sent at least 10 days before your activity date.

Cancellation Policy

Moderate Cancellation Policy:

What if I’ve visited this city before on a previous trip?

Every city in Japan has a lot to offer. There are many aspects to the city and many hidden and local spots that you may not have seen or heard of before. In the Custom Tour form that will be sent to you after your booking, you’ll be able to let us know of any attractions you have already visited and would not like to see again on this tour. We will carefully review your requests and will create an itinerary based on your preferences.

This private and customizable tour for Hakone is perfect for guests who would like to have their own itinerary planned based on their interests and preferences on the first day and allowing guests to experience the city at their own pace on the second day.

• Explore Hakone and see Mt. Fuji with an English guide on this private 2-day and 1 night tour with round-trip from Tokyo to Hakone and return. Take a cruise on Lake Ashi, ride on the Mt. Komagatake Ropeway that overlooks the Hakone National Park and walk on the Old Tokaido Road. Spend the first day exploring Hakone with your tour guide before your overnight stay at a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn). On the second day, you have the full the day to yourself (with Hakone Free Pass included) before returning to Tokyo.
• Guests will be able to take a cruise on Lake Ashi, ride on the Mt. Komagatake Ropeway that overlooks the Hakone National Park, Old Tokaido road walking from Hakone Sekisho checkpoint (30 minute walk), depending on weather and season.

Inclusions:

• All guide fees and transportation within Hakone
• All Hakone bus fares, mountain train and cable cars
• Hakone Free Pass + Odakyu Express Train (Romance Car) from and return to Shinjuku Station
• Entrance fees for Hakone Gora Park, Old Tokaido road walking along Lake Ashi (30 minute walk)
• In good weather: Owakudani Ropeway with the view of the volcanic activity at the Boiling Valley and Mt Fuji; Cruising Lake Ashi with a Pirate ship with the view of Mt Fuji
• Discount Entrance Fees to Hakone Open Air Museum, Narukawa Art Museum and the Hakone Barrier Station
• Private local tour guide for your group on the first day
• 1 night stay in traditional Japanese hotel (ryokan) with onsen hot spring experience and hotel breakfast

Exclusions:

• Meals, snacks and drinks
• Optional Experiences:
  • Ride on the Mt. Komagatake Ropeway that overlooks the Hakone National Park (Optional: ~ 2,400 JPY)
  • Gora Park’s Tea Ceremony in Japanese garden (Optional: ~ 550 JPY)
  • Hakone Open Air Museum with Picasso Gallery (Optional: 700 JPY – 1,600 JPY)
  • Crusing Lake Ashi with a two body modern ship and a rope way to the top of Mt. Koma (Optional, Ropeway + Ship fee: ~ 2,400 JPY)
  • Narukawa Art Museum with good view of Mt. Fuji and Japanese paintings (Optional: 400 JYP- 1,500 JPY)
  • Public Hot bath at Hakone Yumoto (Optional, Entrance fee: 900 JPY – 1,000 JYP, for private indoor bath: 1000 JYP- 3,500 JPY)
  • Other optional activities in Hakone
• Dinner on first day (must be booked in advance):

  Kaiseki dinner at the hotel (Optional: 12,000 JPY per person)

  Availability: Any day except holidays; We recommend making a reservation as early as possible and ideally, at least a month in advance.

  Location: Tokyo to Hakone, and return

Option:

• Public Transportation – From Tokyo: This option includes an English-speaking guide and covers all public transportation costs, including hotel pickup and drop-off within Tokyo center. Please note that admission fees and optional activity costs for both guests and tour guides are not included.
• Private Vehicle – From Tokyo: This option includes an English-speaking guide and a private vehicle for your convenience. The private vehicle covers hotel pickup and drop-off within a 10 km radius of Shinjuku Station. Please note that admission fees and optional activity costs for both guests and tour guides are not included.
• Public Transportation- From Odawara Station: This option includes an English-speaking guide and covers all public transportation costs from Odawara Station (Pick-up from hotel is not included). Please note that admission fees and optional activity costs for both guests and tour guides are not included.
• Private Vehicle- From Odawara Station: This option includes an English-speaking guide and a private vehicle from Odawara Station (Pick-up from hotel is not included). Please note that admission fees and optional activity costs for both guests and tour guides are not included.

  Time:

• Public Transportation: Meet our tour guide around 7:30 AM – 8:30 AM. The exact meeting location will be provided once your booking is confirmed.
• Private Transportation: Meet our tour guide around 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM. The exact meeting location will be provided once your booking is confirmed.

Please note that the tour duration includes the travel time. Return to Tokyo around 5 to 6 PM.

  Price per person:
Select number of people under Booking Request for pricing.

  Requirements:

• Passport will be required for transportation on tour day
• Non-smoking: All the rooms are non-smoking in ryokan, there are designated areas outside for those who would like to smoke.

Hotel Information

The hotel experience will be a traditional Japanese ryokan, in which there will be tatami floors with futon that guests may sleep on top above the floor. Hotel accommodation will be 3 Stars. For guests who would like 4 or 5 star hotel or ryokan, additional costs will apply. Please inquire at booking.

For optional Geisha dinner experience (10,000 JPY per person), guests must have their overnight stay at the hotel, Tonosawa Ichinoyu Honkan Resort in Hakone, which is a traditional ryokan. Guests must share bathroom for this ryokan (private bathroom may not be available). For guests who do not want optional Geisha dinner experience, other ryokan with private bathroom may be booked.

Private Tour

This private tour is for a group of 8 or less people. For a larger group, we may have two tour guides present (depending on availability).

Payment

All bookings are payable via Stripe (Booking Checkout) or Flywire. Confirmations regarding your booking will be sent at least 10 days before your activity date.

Cancellation Policy

How far in advance should I book?

Hakone is a popular destination from Tokyo.We recommend making a reservation as early as possible and ideally, at least a month in advance.

When is it Peak Season and what does that mean for this tour?

There are many peak seasons in Hakone, but it is especially busy during Autumn as Hakone is one of the most beautiful locations of Japan to view autumn foliage. During peak season, there will be heavy traffic on the roads and may take two to three times the duration to travel between locations by bus at Hakone.

Other peak holidays include Golden Week (May 6th to 27th), the Obon Holidays (August 11th to 20th), and the New Year Holidays (December 28th – January 6th).

How does the room at the ryokan work if I have children?

Children will be staying in the same room as adults. For additional beds/futons in the room, please let us know in advance so that we can make arrangements.

Non-smoking: All the rooms are non-smoking, there are designated areas outside for those who would like to smoke.

This private and customizable tour for Akita is perfect for guests who would like to have their own itinerary planned based on their interests and preferences, allowing guests to experience the city at their own pace. 

Discover Akita at your own pace on this fully customizable 4-hour full day private tour with an English-speaking (or other language) tour guide. Create a dream tour that’s perfect for your interests and preferences.

With many options and attractions to choose from in the city, it may seem easier to just choose a set tour that’s already available out there, but after you book this Custom Tour, we’ll work closely with you on designing the perfect tour that is only for you. To make it easier for you, after the tour is booked, you’ll receive a Custom Tour form with various potential options and themes for you to easily choose from. We’ll also consider all your preferences: whether you are into Japanese culture, history, food, nature and scenery, seasonal experiences such as Winter Illuminations, or other, you’ll be able to easily make your selections and identify any spots on your wish-list before we start planning away for you.

As for mode of transportation, you’ll have the option to choose public transportation option (utilizing the excellent train and bus systems) or the private vehicle option (with a meticulously clean and comfortable chartered vehicle with personal driver) to take you around the city for your own comfort. The choice is yours. We are just here to make the planning and arranging process easy for you.

Price: Select number of people under Booking Request for pricing

 Included:

• 4-hour fully customized tour with reservations and bookings made on your behalf (restaurant or other venue reservations must fall within tour hours)
• Transportation within the city only (either public transportation or private vehicle, based on your booking)
• English-speaking professional tour guide (or other language may be available based on request)
• Hotel pickup and drop-off (if the hotel is within city center)

Excluded:

• Meals, food and drinks not specified
• Fees for optional tours and activities for guests and tour guide
• Gratuities (optional)

Attire

The tour operates in all weather conditions (except when there is a typhoon or other extreme situations). Please dress appropriately for all weather conditions. In such case, please note that the tour may change slightly to accommodate for the weather.

Non-Smoking

While most places we visit may be non-smoking establishments, there are some places along the way that may allow smoking in designated areas. Please take note of this for guests who are sensitive to smoke.

Age Requirement

There is no age requirement, but a reservation must be made for all guests. Passports may be required to verify age on the day of the tour. Children that are age 11 and under must be accompanied by an adult that is age 18 or older.

Payment

All bookings are payable via Stripe (Booking Checkout) or Flywire. Confirmations regarding your booking will be sent at least 10 days before your activity date.

Cancellation Policy

Moderate Cancellation Policy:

What if I’ve visited this city before on a previous trip?

Every city in Japan has a lot to offer. There are many aspects to the city and many hidden and local spots that you may not have seen or heard of before. In the Custom Tour form that will be sent to you after your booking, you’ll be able to let us know of any attractions you have already visited and would not like to see again on this tour. We will carefully review your requests and will create an itinerary based on your preferences.

This private and customizable tour for Aomori is perfect for guests who would like to have their own itinerary planned based on their interests and preferences, allowing guests to experience the city at their own pace. 

Discover Aomori at your own pace on this fully customizable 8-hour full day private tour with an English-speaking (or other language) tour guide. Create a dream tour that’s perfect for your interests and preferences.

With many options and attractions to choose from in the city, it may seem easier to just choose a set tour that’s already available out there, but after you book this Custom Tour, we’ll work closely with you on designing the perfect tour that is only for you. To make it easier for you, after the tour is booked, you’ll receive a Custom Tour form with various potential options and themes for you to easily choose from. We’ll also consider all your preferences: whether you are into Japanese culture, history, food, nature and scenery, seasonal experiences such as Winter Illuminations, or other, you’ll be able to easily make your selections and identify any spots on your wish-list before we start planning away for you.

As for mode of transportation, you’ll have the option to choose public transportation option (utilizing the excellent train and bus systems) or the private vehicle option (with a meticulously clean and comfortable chartered vehicle with personal driver) to take you around the city for your own comfort. The choice is yours. We are just here to make the planning and arranging process easy for you.

Price: Select number of people under Booking Request for pricing

 Included:

• 8-hour fully customized tour with reservations and bookings made on your behalf (restaurant or other venue reservations must fall within tour hours)
• Transportation within the city only (either public transportation or private vehicle, based on your booking)
• English-speaking professional tour guide (or other language may be available based on request)
• Hotel pickup and drop-off (if the hotel is within city center)

Excluded:

• Meals, food and drinks not specified
• Fees for optional tours and activities for guests and tour guide
• Gratuities (optional)

PLEASE FILL OUT THE TOUR FORM:

After your booking, you will receive a link to the Aomori Form (within 48 hours) that asks for pertinent information required for this booking. Please ensure that this Aomori Form is completed accurately at least 7 days before your tour date

Attire

The tour operates in all weather conditions (except when there is a typhoon or other extreme situations). Please dress appropriately for all weather conditions. In such case, please note that the tour may change slightly to accommodate for the weather.

Non-Smoking

While most places we visit may be non-smoking establishments, there are some places along the way that may allow smoking in designated areas. Please take note of this for guests who are sensitive to smoke.

Age Requirement

There is no age requirement, but a reservation must be made for all guests. Passports may be required to verify age on the day of the tour. Children that are age 11 and under must be accompanied by an adult that is age 18 or older.

Payment

All bookings are payable via Stripe (Booking Checkout) or Flywire. Confirmations regarding your booking will be sent at least 10 days before your activity date.

Cancellation Policy

Moderate Cancellation Policy:

What if I’ve visited this city before on a previous trip?

Every city in Japan has a lot to offer. There are many aspects to the city and many hidden and local spots that you may not have seen or heard of before. In the Custom Tour form that will be sent to you after your booking, you’ll be able to let us know of any attractions you have already visited and would not like to see again on this tour. We will carefully review your requests and will create an itinerary based on your preferences.

Enjoy an exclusive 1-day excursion to Nagano tailored for your group’s enjoyment. With a dedicated English-speaking guide, you’ll explore the city, visiting renowned sites like the snow monkeys, the iconic Zenkoji Temple, and concluding your day with a soothing soak in a traditional onsen (hot springs).

• Nagano City is well-known for hosting the 1998 Winter Olympic Games and while some of the former Olympic facilities can still be viewed in Nagano, the city has since evolved as a temple town revolving around the famous Zenkoji Temple, and is best to visit during the Spring Season (for cherry blossoms), Summer Season (for hiking and other outdoor activities), the Fall Season (for autumn foliage) and the Winter Season (for winter activities and for seeing the snow monkeys).
• On this tour, spend a full-day in Nagano exploring the city and enjoying what this quaint town has to offer. Your English-speaking tour guide will pick you up from your hotel or Nagano Station at 8:45 AM. You will either take public transportation (train and bus) or private chartered vehicle around town based on your booking.
• Explore the stunning Zenko-ji temple, indulge in a guided sake tasting and savor a delicious lunch in Obuse. Alternatively, visit the Snow Monkey Park to catch a glimpse of adorable monkeys soaking in hot springs or take a leisurely walk along a breathtaking path flanked by 400-year-old cedar trees and a frozen lake in Togakushi. With several itinerary options to choose from, you can select the one that best suits your preferences.
• Once you’ve booked the Nagano Private Full Day Tour: Snow Monkeys, Zenko-ji, Obuse Town, Sake and Onsen, you’ll receive a form with a variety of itinerary options to suit your vehicle option and essential information to complete your booking.

Seasonal Recommendations for This Tour:

Spring Cherry Blossom (Sakura) Viewing: Mid-April to Early-May

Summer Outdoor Activities: Late-May to Late-September

Autumn Foliage (Koyo) Viewing: Early-October to Late-November

Winter Festivities: Early-December to Late-March

• Inclusions:
  • • Transportation within Nagano City (either public transportation or private chartered vehicle for your group only)
      Note for “Private Vehicle” option only: The tour guide and driver will pick up guests from hotels located within a 10km radius of Nagano Station.
      
    • English-speaking tour guide
• Exclusions:
  • • Round-trip bullet train from Tokyo Station to Nagano Station (free for visitors with JR pass). Train tickets (for those who do not have JR pass) available as add-on at checkout.
    • Meals, snacks and drinks
    • Entrance fee to Zenko-ji Temple,  Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park for the guests
    • Onsen (hot spring) fee: 700 JPY to 1000 JPY per person
    • Other optional activities for guests (the guests would also have to cover the entrance fee for the tour guide for locations guest would like to visit that is not on the itinerary)

  Availability:

• All year round, but especially recommended during Spring (for cherry blossoms), Summer (for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling), Fall (for autumn foliage) and Winter (for snow monkeys and winter festivities).
• The monkeys enter the onsen all year round, but sometimes the park wardens will encourage the monkeys by throwing food into the pool, especially during the warmer seasons of the year. Please understand that these are wild monkeys so there may be times when the monkeys would not come out from the forest. 

  Location: Nagano City, Nagano Prefecture

  Time: 8:45 AM (may be earlier depending on availability, or later depending on location of hotel). The full tour is between 7.5 to 8 hours.

  Requirements:

• Must provide names of all guests and birth dates
• A current valid passport is required on the day of travel
• PLEASE FILL OUT THE TOUR FORM: After your booking, you will receive a link to the Nagano Form (within 48 hours) that asks for pertinent information required for this booking. Please ensure that this Nagano Form is completed accurately at least 7 days before  your tour date.

Additional information:

• PLEASE FILL OUT THE TOUR FORM: After your booking, you will receive a link to the Nagano Form (within 48 hours) that asks for pertinent information required for this booking. Please ensure that this Nagano Form is completed accurately at least 7 days before  your tour date.
• For this tour, if we provide train tickets from Tokyo and return (add-on cost when booking): we will send train tickets to the guests’ hotel in Tokyo (the hotel which guests are staying at before their Nagano trip). Please provide: 1) Hotel Name in Tokyo, 2) Name of guest who booked the hotel, 3) Confirmation Number, and 4) Dates of Stay at the hotel in Tokyo.
• Snow Monkeys in warmer seasons: The snow starts to melt in March, and the snow monkeys may not bathe as often as they did in the winter to keep warm. Guests may see the snow monkeys taking a swim as the park staff gives them lunch, but unlike winter months, there are definitely days when the monkeys just do not feel like entering the bath. When it is warm and the sun is out, the monkeys tend to be more active and move around the area. The monkeys are more likely to be grooming in the warmer seasons. While Winter is not the only time to see snow monkeys, please note that they are wild animals and it is difficult to predict their behavior. You can still visit the Snow Monkey Park, but seeing the snow monkeys and watching them bathe is not always guaranteed.
• Guests must provide information (name, age) of each guest. A current valid passport is required on the day of travel.
• Age Requirement: Guests of all ages can attend this tour, but a booking must be made for each person. Adult pricing applies to guests age 12 to 99. Child pricing applies to guests age 6 – 11. Young child pricing applies to guests age 1 – 5. In this private group tour, there must be at least one person that is 18 years or older.

Winter in Nagano

In winter, the walking trail to the Snow Monkey Park may get slippery, so please wear winter shoes (sometimes provided by the hotel/ryokan guests are staying at). The temperatures in Nagano are much colder than Tokyo, so please prepare warm clothes.

Private Tour

This private tour is for a group of 8 or less people. For a larger group, we may have two tour guides present (depending on availability).

For this tour, if we provide train tickets: we will send train tickets to the guests’ hotel in Tokyo (the hotel which guests are staying at before their Nagano trip).

Payment

All bookings is payable via Stripe (Booking Checkout) or Flywire. Confirmations regarding your booking will be sent at least 10 days before your activity date.

Cancellation Policy

Standard Cancellation Policy:

How far in advance should I book?

Nagano City is a popular destination from Tokyo. We recommend making a reservation as early as possible and ideally, at least a month in advance.

When is it Peak Season and what does that mean for this tour?

There are many peak seasons in Nagano, but it is especially busy during the Autumn and Winter Seasons. During these peak seasons, there will be heavy traffic on the roads and may take two to three times the duration to travel between locations.

Other peak holidays include Golden Week (May 6th to 27th), the Obon Holidays (August 11th to 20th), and the New Year Holidays (December 28th – January 6th).

Why am I charged a service fee if I make a cancellation after you started planning the trip?

An exclusive 5-hour adventure that will help you discover the best-kept secrets of Kawasaki during the popular Kanamara Festival that happens just once-in-a-year with the help of an English-speaking tour guide.

Just once a year, Kawasaki City hosts its popular Kanamara Festival on the first Sunday of April. The festival is visited by an estimated 90,000 visitors each year and centers around the Kanayama Shrine where patrons can pray for easy childbirth, marital harmony, amongst other good fortunes. 

In this immersive tour, not only will you be able to experience the Kanamara Festival on the shrine grounds, but you’ll be able to get to discover the hidden charms and gems of Kawasaki City with an English-speaking tour guide and exclusive access that is available through Japan Awaits only.

At the start of this small-group tour, meet with your tour guide by Kawasaki Station (only 20 minutes from Tokyo Station by train) where you will head to Kanayama Shrine. Japan Awaits will have exclusive access to the shrine grounds that will allow guests to get an up-close and personal view of this special occasion that happens only once a year. Here, you’ll learn about the history of Kanayama Shrine and its significance to the area.

After that, visit the historic Tokaido Road, which was the most important route that connected Kyoto to Edo (modern-day Tokyo) and get to see the world’s shortest escalator to showcase another quirky side to this fascinating city.

Next, you’ll visit the Kawasaki Daishi Temple where you will have VIP access to pray with the priests inside of the temple (exclusive access for Japan Awaits’ guests and not available to general visitors). The gomakitou ritual (rite of burning) practiced by the temple priests is to pray for the achievement of one’s wishes, including greater purification, peace to the household, prosperity to the business, health and longevity. You’ll be able to experience this special ritual and pray with the priests exclusively. You’ll then get the chance to walk along the 150-meter long nakamise street where you can shop or try traditional snacks. 

Join our Kawasaki Kanamara Festival and Hidden Gems Tour and experience the beauty and excitement of this unique city!

Availability: First Sunday in April annually

Price: ¥24,000 per person

Included:

• Public transportation costs
• English-speaking tour guide
• Small handicraft souvenir
• VIP access to Kanayama Shrine grounds
• VIP access to Gomakitou ritual (rite of burning) with priests

Excluded:

• Meals, food and drinks
• Optional Activities
• Other fees not included in the tour

Attire

The tour operates in all weather conditions (except when there is a typhoon or other extreme situations). Please dress appropriately for all weather conditions. In such case, please note that the tour may change slightly to accommodate for the weather.

Non-Smoking

While most places we visit may be non-smoking establishments, there are some places along the way that may allow smoking in designated areas. Please take note of this for guests who are sensitive to smoke.

Age Requirement

This tour is for ages 18 and up only.

Wheelchair Accessible

Unfortunately, this tour is not wheelchair accessible as some historical establishments only have stairs.

Cancellation Policy

Standard Cancellation Policy:

What is the “Kanamara Festival”?

The Kanamara Matsuri, also known as the “Festival of the Steel Phallus,” is a Shinto festival held annually on the first Sunday of April in Kawasaki, Japan. The festival is centered around a giant wooden phallus, and it is believed to bring good luck, fertility, and protection from sexually transmitted diseases. The festival attracts thousands of visitors every year, and there are parades, food stalls, and other festivities that celebrate fertility and sexuality. The festival has a long history dating back to the Edo period, and it is still widely celebrated in modern-day Japan.

How far in advance should I book?

Preparing a customized tour requires some time, especially if reservations for restaurants or other venues are required. We recommend making a reservation as early as possible. Ideally, it should be 3 months before your travel date, or 1 month before the travel date at the very least. For Custom Tour bookings that are requested with less than 7 days before the travel date, we may not be able to arrange your custom tour in time so your booking request may be cancelled and you will receive a full refund.

Why am I charged a service fee if I make a cancellation after you started planning the trip?

Organizing and planning a trip requires a lot of time and if we have made reservations on your behalf, it may be very challenging to cancel some booking requests. Once we receive your booking and your answers from the Custom Tour form, we will begin putting together your Itinerary Sheet and will start arranging your tour guide, buying tickets, making reservations at venues for your tour, etc. If you cancel the tour any time after we have sent you the custom Itinerary Sheet, the service fee of 15% of your total tour cost will be nonrefundable