
Frequently Asked Questions
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Yes of course! The main focus is not your departure point but Japan. We are currently working on a French version of our website so we can also offer our itineraries to French speakers.
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If you have a UK passport, you don’t need to apply for a visa in advance to visit Japan as a tourist. When you arrive in Japan, immigration will give you a 90-day tourist visa on the spot—no forms or appointments needed beforehand. Just make sure that your passport is valid for the full length of your stay
However, entry requirements can change, so we always recommend checking the latest information from the Japanese Embassy or your government website before you travel.
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Japan is stunning year-round, but spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are especially popular for their cherry blossoms and vibrant foliage. That said, we offer sensory-focused experiences in every season - from snowy onsen escapes to summer festivals and winter citrus harvests.
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We recommend at least two weeks to truly soak in the sights, sounds, flavours, and hidden corners of Japan. If you’re short on time, we can help craft a powerful 7–10 day experience.
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Japan’s climate varies by region, but generally:
Spring is mild and blooming (10–20°C)
Summer is hot and humid (25–35°C)
Autumn is crisp and colourful (10–25°C)
Winter can be chilly (-5–10°C), especially in the mountains
We’ll provide a seasonal guide specific to your itinerary.
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Yes, Japan is one of the safest countries in the world, with low crime rates and a high level of hospitality. We also provide local support during your trip for added peace of mind.
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Our trips are handcrafted. You’ll go beyond the typical tourist trail - think incense ceremonies, perfume blending, forest onsen, and cooking with fishermen - curated for those who crave immersion, creativity, and more sustainable travel.
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Our itineraries typically include accommodation, experiences, some guided activities, and some in-country transport like the JR Rail Pass. You’ll receive a clear breakdown with no hidden fees.
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International flights are not included, but we hope to be able to partner with airlines to provide this service in the future. However, we’re happy to advise on the best routes and timings and we are also able to book domestic flights.
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We do not make restaurants or bar reservations unless specifically required and arranged in advance. We can only book certain experiences, but we always make sure to communicate with you about your preferences and expectations.
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Absolutely. Every itinerary can be tailored to your interests, travel pace, and dream experiences - whether that’s sake brewing, wildflower hikes, or traditional art workshops. If you’d like to craft something completely unique, please select our ‘Pathfinder’ journey.
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We specialise in self-guided experiences and are currently unable to provide fully guided tours. However, in some instance we work with local guides!
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Not at all! While Japanese is a beautiful language, many of our hosts speak English. Plus, we provide language tips and support in our pack.
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Yes - all of our itineraries include breathing room. You’ll have the freedom to wander, rest, or discover something spontaneous (with our recommendations on hand if you want them).
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Yes, we require a £250 deposit to confirm your booking before we start working on your itinerary. The remainder is due closer to your departure date.
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We understand that plans change. Our cancellation policy is designed to be fair, and we’ll go over the details with you before booking.
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Yes, we do. You can pay in instalments leading up to one month before your departure date — just let us know what works best for you.
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It depends on the season and your itinerary, but we’ll provide you with a detailed packing list. Essentials usually include comfortable walking shoes, layers, and a small bag for day trips.
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Yes, travel insurance is required for all our trips. It ensures you’re covered in case of medical emergencies, cancellations, or unexpected delays.
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We handpick character-rich stays - from boutique ryokans and forest lodges to modern design hotels. Comfort, charm, and authenticity are key. If there are any experiences in particular that you’d like to have, just let us know and we’ll do our best to accommodate.
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We’ll take care of the JR Pass (if using), however we’ve found that it’s best to maintain the flexibility of taking the local transport yourself. We’ll provide clear guidance on how and where you can buy tickets though, to make transport as simple as possible.
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No, it’s usually not necessary to book in advance. Japan has a fixed-price system for train tickets, and Shinkansen (bullet trains) run frequently throughout the day. This gives you the flexibility to make seat reservations when you arrive at the station, depending on your travel plans and timing. If you plan to take special trains (a luxury train cruise for example), we’ll discuss this with you in advance.
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Absolutely. Many of our guests travel solo, and our itineraries are designed to feel welcoming, flexible, and enriching - whether you’re after solitude, connection, or a bit of both. You’ll have the freedom to explore independently, with the reassurance of local support and thoughtfully curated experiences.
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Yes, we tailor trips for all ages and interests. Whether you're a family with curious teens or a couple seeking a slower-paced cultural journey, we can adapt activities, accommodation, and travel logistics to suit your group’s needs and energy levels.
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Japan has a rich food culture, and we’ll work hard to ensure your dietary needs - whether vegetarian, gluten-free, halal, or allergy-related - are carefully respected. Just let us know in advance so we can plan accordingly.
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We do our best to provide accessible travel experiences. Some areas in Japan have limitations, but we’ll work with you to understand your requirements and create an itinerary with appropriate accommodations, transport, and support - wherever possible.