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All Japan Tours

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337 N Vineyard Ave

Ontario, CA 91764

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About the Business

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Business Owner

All Japan Tours offers unlimited possibilities to explore and experience an unforgettable trip to Japan. Whether you're interested in cherry blossom tours, festival tours or cultural tours, our Japan vacation packages will bring your vacation dreams to reality. Choose tours based on price, interest, or season. Our Japan group tours are fully escorted and we can also arrange special-interest private tours, custom group tours, business (MICE Japan) and educational tours. Whatever your interest is, All Japan Tours can create the right Japan itinerary for you. When you consider the costs, hassles, and uncertainty of traveling on your own, you'll discover how an All Japan Tours vacation is like no other. Everything has been arranged in advance, from itinerary to hotel accommodations, so all you have to do is take in the breathtaking scenery. No need to worry about getting lost or finding transportation, leave the details to us and start having the time of your life. …

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We had 10 days private trip in Japan with large group and we're so glad that it was with AJT. Having local guide helped us to understand better the local culture. Not to mention that our guide Miharu went above and beyond to accommodate all our needs. The driver Takahashi is the safest driver with great skills. We visited so many places and created a lot of memories. Everything went so smoothly. I would recommend AJT to everyone who's traveling to Japan.

We just finished our tour and I could not be more grateful for the amazing time we had. I booked my trip for my birthday with a large group of friends (17 people) and everything went so smooth and effortless. I loved our itinerary and every single city and hotel we stopped in was unforgettable! Thank you so much for suggesting such amazing places , rich with history and culture! Special thank you goes to our tour guide Miharu! She is the most professional, accommodating and flexible guide you could ever wish for! She is also extremely friendly, funny and has very positive energy. I believe our trip was very successful thanks to her. Miharu's endless energy, sense of humor and easy going personality made our trip even more fun. Miharu went above and beyond in order to exceed our expectations and she did! Our driver Takahashi was very professional, sincere , safe driver and has great driving skills! I would highly recommend AJT to my friends! Please let me know if I can post the review anywhere else. Thank you so much for the awesome trip! We all loved it! Arigato Gozaimas!

Booked trip for 4. Have to pay for food for the 4th... They made 30% profit on forex. Who's mistake is not covering 4th person's meals?

Kiyoshi, the travel agent I spoke with from All Japan Tours was super helpful, kind, and patient arranging a detailed itinerary for us and answering all of the many questions I had. He was very professional and answered all of my phone calls and emails right away. He is actually from Japan so he was able to answer a lot of questions that other travel agents from other companies didn't know the answer to. I did not end up booking a tour due to my lower budget - I may change my mind later - but he did charge much less than the other private tour in Japan companies that I spoke with.

Just came back from Japan and we had a private tour arranged by All Japan Tours . T'was exciting, our guides were excellent, hotels are nice and in great locations, Japanese are disciplined and yes, the city is clean . All the places we visited are a must to see while in Japan . From Kyoto to Nara, all the temples and shrine and the gardens are something to behold! The Golden Palace looks like a scene taken off from a page of a fabled story in a book , it just mesmerize you. Thank you AJT for putting up a great tour. Highly recommend this team !

Alright! So without being able to find reviews on All Japan Tours, I took a chance and booked a tour with AJT. To my great fortune, they were a legitimate company, and I had an absolutely fantastic time in Japan. I went on the Cherry Blossom Golden Route Reverse Tour. Food: I had really difficult dietary needs (a seafood allergy in Japan is, well, very difficult) and had these needs met everywhere. At every restaurant included on the tour I had food I not only could eat, but enjoy. We went for a variety of Japanese foods, so my tour group and I got to try different styles from many different types of restaurants. Personal favourite was Hot Pot. Transportation: Really comfortable tour bus; though we did get a chance to try the "shinkansen", or the Bullet Train, and a river boat tour as well. The bus had big windows to see sights, comfortable seats with overhead storage. Very safe, too. The driver was great and professional, and navigated well through some of the most narrow streets I have ever seen. Destinations: Saw amazing sights! Great historical areas and buildings, breathtaking temples and shrines, beautiful gardens, and very upbeat shopping districts. Even saw a geisha in Gion! Tour Guide: Our tour guide was VERY knowledgeable, and spoke Japanese very well. His English was very good, too. He was a sweet guy and I highly recommend him. Hotels: Hotels were comfortable, and clean. I was very content with what I got, especially since I was travelling single. I felt safe everywhere I stayed. Loved staying in the Ryoukan, with an Onsen (Hot Springs) in Hakone. If you are going to Japan, read up on the how-to-onsen correctly, and definitely try! Other: I wanted to stay in Tokyo a few extra days, All Japan Tours booked my hotels for me and helped me plan an itinerary for those days according to my interests. How great is that? Overall: Highly recommend, would do again, loved it, loved it, loved it.

This is great tour company. We just finished a private tour where they arranged all accommodation, transport and guides fora 10 day trip to Kyoto, Kanazawa, Takayama and Matsumoto. Can't say enough about the quality of the guides and the chosen hotels. They even booked some Michelin starred restaurants for us- we had a super time and the price was affordable compared to some other luxury tour companies.

Their web site and tour informaiton pages are great!! So many information and their customer service is nice.

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• Our California office it's now
• 22:09 PM(Fri) - We Are Close
• Tel: 1-909-988-8885 Toll free : 1-855-325-2726 (USA & CANADA)

• Monday to Friday 8:30AM - 5:30PM (PST) Saturday 8:30AM - 3:00PM (PST)

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Anime Flavor: Tokyo and Kyoto Cherry Blossom Tour

3/19/2023 - 3/26/2023 / 2023-4-9   

I went on my trip in March 2023 and it was AMAZING. I've been planning to go to Japan for over six years and AJT was able to help me accomplish my dream. From the first time I reached out, everyone I spoke to was incredibly kind and full of knowledge. They were also very patient with my overwhelming amount of questions! The reps at the company let me know what I needed to apply for and fill out, along with due dates and timely reminders. I was also able to add on a 4-day Seoul addition with ease. Our guide, Billy, met us at the airport and was literally the most perfect tour guide. (He even assisted me with picking up my mobile wifi at the airport). I highly recommend him for your tours! He is incredibly knowledgeable about the places we were going. You could even ask him questions about places we passed and he would be able to tell you in-depth, despite it not being a part of the tour. I felt very comfortable with him and in extremely capable hands. I could go on and on about Billy, or the places we visited for days, but to sum it up, this trip, this tour is 100% worth it. AJT is incredibly thorough in helping me organize this whole trip, outside of my flights. I cannot wait to go on another tour with them! 100/10, definitely recommend!

Best of Japan with Japanese Alps: Cherry Blossom Tour

3/26/2023 - 4/5/2023 / 2023-4-7   

The tour was great and well organized. The guide Billy and driver Nagato-San made all the difference. I haven’t seen a more conscientious guide than Billy. The tour gave a good flavor of different areas of Japan (I believe 19 prefectures?). We got the fully Cherry Blossom experience as well as the sites, food and culture!!! The communication was clear and concise.

The Golden Route Japan (Reverse): Cherry Blossom Tour

3/28/2023 - 4/3/2023 / 2023-04-7   

I like the tour a lot especially that it was ny first time in japan. I wish all meals were included though and dotonbori included as well. Our tour guide Ms. Kim Kida was great and kind and she did her best during our tour and did above and beyond in handling some of the guests. Our tour driver Mr. Okuda was great as well and made sure our ride was safe.

The Golden Route Japan: Cherry Blossom Tour

3/27/2023 - 4/2/2023 / 2023-04-4   

Ms. Carpenter

Me ha ru was great at information. I learned a ton even after doing homework in advance. Japan is lovely. What needs fixed on this tour is timing (multiple over 12 hour days was insanity and even with that we lost a few items off the itinerary because people were DONE), accurate information about timing (stops were often underestimated, and our group was not particularly slow), and the included food was ... Not good (I'm not particularly a fan of japanese but why was there no ramen meal, and multiple meals involving cold rice, and food, including raw food, that was pre plated for Lord knows how long before we got there). People who already liked Japanese food were likewise unimpressed). If those things were fixed this would've been amazing, as it was it was good. Group consensus was that the imperial palace parking lot, the textile overpriced factory and the idea of going up into one of the castles could have been axed. Also, given the weather going up only to station 4 on Mt Fuji was too expensive timewise, a stop below when the mountain was out would've been preferable.

The Golden Triangle of Japan: Cherry Blossom Tour

3/26/2023 - 4/2/2023 / 2023-04-5   

Excellent tour our guide Mr Ito was very friendly,, knowledgable and at the same time extremely responsible Hotels were all very good

3/26/2023 - 4/2/2023 / 2023-4-6   

Mr. Harrison

Tom Cruise was out standing and made the trip very enjoyable

3/26/2023 - 4/2/2023 / 2023-03-26   

Ito-San was so kind and knowledgeable!! The gardens and sites were the perf places to see the Sakura!!

Mr. Balepur

Ito San was a very entertaining tour guide & made the journey very enjoyable.

3/19/2023 - 3/29/2023 / 2023-4-10   

Ms. Fernandez

This tour covered a lot of places and was directed by Billy the tour guide, who was excellent. He provided vast information about the places we would visit and about Japan's culture and traditions. He made sure that we were on time for all activities, and he was always present for any questions or suggestions. Billy is a professional that provides 100% customer satisfaction and he is a true asset to All Japan Tours. Congratulations on a well done journey through Japan.

Private Custom Tour

3/25/2023 - 4/8/2023 / 2023-4-10   

The tour was fantastic! We saw peak cherry blossoms and saw amazing sites in 5 different cities. Everything went smoothly - all of the transportation was seamless and we were able to see a huge portion of the island in 14 days due to how efficient the tour was organized. I highly recommend the tour for anyone who is nervous about traveling to Japan because they aren't personally familiar with the country/culture - AJT makes it so easy to just enjoy the trip! We especially enjoyed our guides Marta (Takayma/Shirwakaga-Go), TK (our second Tokyo and Hakone guide) as well as our Hiroshima and Kyoto guides

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OMG ! Thank you so much for your help - really appreciate it. I'm so happy to know that it is a legit company . They offer all the sites I want to see. hope it's not too exhausting though 😊

Their tours are quite intensive because they try to fit as much as possible into a day. Your itinerary covers from morning to evening with dinners included some days. You'll hardly find enough free time to wander around on your own most days except for the first and last one.

At least your tour has 3 or 2 night stay at a couple of places which saves you packing and unpacking. You'll get a full on Japanese cultural & sightseeing experience. Do enjoy it and post a review on Tripadvisor upon your return to Oz.

See my review in this thread. Beautiful country, wonderful people, you are going to have a great time.

Thanks for your input . Looks like I'll have to keep my fitness up for the trip :) Pretty sure I will go with this company now . Thinking of tagging a couple of days at both ends of the tour . I 'll definitely post my review when I get back . Wish I were going now !

I contacted AJT to customize a private tour for a group of 10. We arrived in Osaka on a cruise ship and wanted to go to Kyoto . They were great to work with and our group enjoyed ourselves. We saw everything that was listed on our itinerary. Our guide (Ms. Kanako) and driver were very accomodating. The lunch that was booked for our group was a traditional "special" lunch called Shabu-Shabu...so delicious! We visted the following sites: Heian Shrine, Gion district, Nijo Castle and Kinkakuji Temple .

Yes! Thanks so much for taking the time to reply!

• Driving at night from Noboribetsu area to hotel 13:07
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• Please help with hotel selection 11:19
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The format of the trip enabled two significant factors to coincide to make the entire experience overwhelmingly positive. 1. Our trip guide - Yuri Awanohara, made th...

Great introduction to the country. Variety of

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well organised we appreciated not going to the

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Put this on your to-do list. Every day a winner.

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10 Best Japan Tour Operators 2024 [Unbiased & With Reviews]

10 best japan tour operators 2024.

Are you planning to visit Japan, but unsure which tour provider to select? Now, you no longer have to waste time searching the internet and filling out dozens of contact forms. Simply fill out ONE form, we’ll send it off to multiple tour providers and they’ll contact YOU! You’ll be able to compare rates and find the lowest cost tour for the most affordable trip abroad.

Get Free Quotes From 10 Best Japan Tour Operators

Are you thinking about taking a trip to Japan ? Are you wondering what are the best tours of Japan? Are you looking for the best and safest Japan tour companies to plan your trip?

Japan, a country in East Asia, is known for being highly developed and economically advanced in Asia. Despite experiencing nuclear bombings during World War II, Japan managed to recover and became a major economic player in the world. Tokyo, the lively and bustling capital, is a great starting point for exploration rather than the beaches. Japan has an efficient high-speed train network that connects the entire country, allowing quick travel to various landscapes like Mount Fuji, green rice fields, sake breweries, historic cities like Kyoto and Nara, and ski resorts like Niseko. The country is famous for its sushi, sake, soccer, and sumo wrestling, making it an enticing destination for exploration and adventure.

While travelling to the Japan is a marvelous experience, it can get quite complicated when you start Googling the best tour operators in Japan. Indeed, hundreds of results will pop up, all claiming to be “the best”. But some just aren’t honest – so how do you know which one to select? Choosing the incorrect tour company in Japan could have terrible effects on your Japan holiday.

To save you time, we did the hard work for you. We spent thousands of hours researching, and found the safest and best tour operators in Japan for you. In this article, we’ll present to you an unbiased selection of the 10 best Japan tour operators of the world.

Table update Jan 8, 2024

Japan Panoramic Tours

Japan Panoramic Tours , a top-rated tour operator in Japan, has reputation of taking over 70,000 travelers from 135+ countries on unforgettable journeys across Japan. Their mission is to offer lifelong travel experience in Japan through immersive packages.

Boasting multiple TripAdvisor Certificates of Excellence, they captivate guests with fluent English narration and multi-lingual audio guides (EN, FR, IT, ES, ZH, TH, ID, UK). After a two-year Covid hiatus, Japan Panoramic Tours are back in 2023, offering meticulously planned itineraries that maximize your time at must-see destinations.

Japan Panoramic Tours Best Japan Tour Packages

Japan Panoramic Tours offers several exciting packages for travelers. The AMAZING TOKYO 1Day Bus Tour is perfect for those who want to see the city’s must-see landmarks, like the Tokyo Skytree and Imperial Palace, in a single day. The tour also includes a matcha experience, lunch, and a Tokyo Bay cruise.

For something a little more adventurous, the Sea Kayak Experience Tour in Ota , Haneda area is a great option. This tour allows visitors to kayak up close to Haneda Airport and watch planes take off and land.

If you’re looking to escape the city and experience some of Japan’s natural beauty, the Fantastic Fuji And Hakone 1day Bus Tour is the perfect choice. This tour takes you to Mt. Fuji, the highest mountain in Japan, and Hakone, which is famous for its hot springs and stunning scenery. The tour also includes a buffet lunch, a Lake Ashi cruise, and a visit to Hakone Shrine.

Japan Panoramic Tours Reviews

Japan Panoramic Tours has firmly established itself as a leading tour operator in Japan, earning widespread acclaim from travelers. With an impressive reputation on TripAdvisor, the company has garnered over 13,700 reviews, with 5 star rating.

This is an Excellent tour. Mai was a great guide. We very much much enjoyed the day. The boat ride was a perfect way to end the tour… Ben318

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Japan Guide Agency

Japan Guide Agency is a premier tour company in Japan that helps explorers experience Japan’s hidden gems and iconic landmarks. They help you skip the tourist traps and delve deeper with their licensed guides. These multilingual experts not only navigate you through must-see sights but also lead you off the beaten path, revealing Japan’s true charm. Japan Guide Agency’s curated short trips offer an immersive and affordable way to experience the magic of this captivating country. They are Japan’s largest touring agency with over 750 licensed guides and offering 1500 private tours per month.

Japan Guide Agency Best Japan Tour Packages

Japan Guide Agency offers several packages for those who want to explore the best of Japan.

The Sapporo Full-Day Private Tour is a great way to see the city’s modern and traditional sides. The tour includes a visit to the Susukino district, the Odori Park, and the Sapporo Beer Museum.

The Hiraizumi Full-Day Private Trip is a fantastic way to explore the ancient city of Hiraizumi. The tour includes a visit to the Chusonji Temple, the Motsuji Temple, and the Takkoku-no-Iwaya.

The Kanazawa Full-day Private Tour is a great way to see the beautiful town of Kanazawa. The tour includes a visit to the Kenrokuen Garden, the Higashi Chaya District, and the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art.

All of these tours can be customized to fit your interests and needs. So, if you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable way to experience Japan, look no further than Japan Guide Agency!

Japan Guide Agency Reviews

Japan Guide Agency is a highly acclaimed tour operator in Japan. They are go-to choose for Tours & Activities in Japan, boasting an impressive 3,527 reviews on TripAdvisor. Their commitment to excellence has been recognized with the Travelers’ Choice Award for 2023. They are placed #1 of 19 Tours & Activities in Shizuoka.

We booked a walking tour through Viator, two days before the tour. We had a very good experience right from booking to the actual tour… Explore05200100331

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Magical Trip

Magical Trip is one of the finest tour organizers of Japan that helps you experience an authentic Japan. Their local experts are knowledgeable on Japanese culture and help you experience thrilling adventure. The company is known for organizing Tokyo tours, Osaka tours, Nara tours, Kyoto tours, Hiroshima tours as well as niche tours targeted around different interests. Magical Trip is a certified tour agency in Japan that has garnered numerous awards over the years for their excellent service.

Magical Trip Best Tour Packages

Magical Trip has tours for every interest!

Foodies will love the Tokyo Bar Hopping Night Tour , which takes you to hidden bars and pubs in Shinjuku. You’ll enjoy local street food and drinks, and you’ll get photos taken during the tour.

If you’re interested in history and culture, the Kyoto Sake Brewery & Tasting Tour is a great option. You’ll learn about sake while walking around one of Kyoto’s three major sake brewery districts, and you’ll taste 18 kinds of sake!

And if you’re looking for an active adventure, the Osaka Highlights Bike Tour is perfect. You’ll cycle around the magnificent Osaka Castle area, and you’ll set foot in Osaka Castle and a shrine to learn its secrets and history.

Magical Trip Reviews

Magical Trip is a best-rated tour operator in Japan. The company has over 2800 reviews on TripAdvisor, most of them have 5-star ratings. Magical Trip is the best choice for Nightlife experience in Japan, ranking #1 of 289 Nightlife providers in Shinjuku.

Had a great time. Very knowledgeable guide who kept us well fed and informed. Nice mix of food and culture. Recommended…nzrichard2015

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Japan Wonder Travel

Japan Wonder Travel is a top-notch tour providing agency based in Japan. The company offers a unique and authentic Japanese experience through carefully crafted packages. They curate attractive itineraries, selecting the best destinations and specialized adventures to immerse you in Japanese culture. The company’s commitment is to ensure you leave with a smile and wonderful memories.

Their team consists of professionally trained and licensed Japanese tour guides with amazing personalities. Japan Wonder Travel also offers prompt assistance, helping you book restaurants, access venues, and fulfill your travel desires.

Japan Wonder Travel Best Japan Tour Packages

Japan Wonder Travel offers several exciting packages for every kind of traveler. If you’re looking for a delicious and immersive food experience, the Tsukiji Fish Market Food and Drink Tour is a great option. You’ll get to explore the outer market, try all sorts of Japanese foods, and learn about the history and culture of Japanese cuisine.

For those who want to see all the highlights of Tokyo in one day, the Tokyo 1-Day Highlights Private Walking Tour is the perfect choice. You’ll visit iconic landmarks like Tsukiji Fish Market, Sensoji Temple, Shibuya Crossing and learn about Japanese history and culture along the way.

And if you’re interested in learning how to make sushi, the Tokyo Sushi Making Experience+ Tsukiji Fish Market Explore Tour is a unique and unforgettable experience. You’ll start with a guided exploration of Tsukiji Fish Market, and then head to a sushi making class where you’ll learn how to make your own sushi from a professional chef.

No matter what your interests are, Japan Wonder Travel has a tour package that’s perfect for you.

Japan Wonder Travel Reviews

As a finest Travel and Tour operator of Japan, Japan Wonder Travel has numerous reviews under its name. It has a total of 2895 reviews on TripAdvisor, 97% of which are positive and praiseful. Similarly, it is a top choice for food adventure in Japan and has a ranking of #1 of 20 Food & Drink exploration in Tsukiji.

This was a great tour. Nobu was excellent. market was great. Good experience overall… matt

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Osaka Free Walking Tour

Osaka Free Walking Tour is a top touring agency for walking tours in Japan. The company helps you in experiencing the heart of Japan’s culinary capital! You’ll get to immerse in the vibrant Japanese culture as they guide you through the city’s wonders. As the a licensed and highly experienced Japanese tour company, they guarantee you will have unforgettable holiday in Japan.

Osaka Free Walking Tour Best Japan Tour Packages

Osaka Free Walking Tour offers thrilling adventures! Feel the splendors of Osaka with the Osaka Walking Tour .

You’ll wander through the neon-lit chaos of Dotonbori, involve in Takoyaki and Okonomiyaki delights and explore the bustling Kuromon market’s seafood. Manga and anime enthusiasts will find bliss in Nipponbashi DenDen Town, a treasure trove of figurines, comics, and quirky maid cafes.

For a deeper Kyoto experience, join The Original Kyoto Free Walking Tour . Discover the city’s rich history, delve into geisha culture and religious traditions, and savor local life. Uncover hidden gems and laugh at fascinating “guidebook-unworthy” stories.

Osaka Free Walking Tour Reviews

Osaka Free Walking Tour is a top-notch walking tour provider In Japan, ranked 2 out of 272 tours and activities in Osaka. It has glowing 1361 reviews on TripAdvisor, most of which comprise 5-star ratings.

The best walking tour to explore the city, learn about its culture. The tour guide is experienced and insightful. Highly recommend!…Jack L

Read all reviews of Osaka Free Walking Tour on TripAdvisor.

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Arigato Japan Food Tours

Arigato Japan Food Tours is a highly acclaimed food tour operator in Japan. Arigato is a premier culinary tourism specialist in Japan, offering over 35 immersive Food Adventures across top destinations such as Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, and Mt. Fuji. With a profound belief that understanding a culture is best achieved through its cuisine, the company provides off-the-beaten-path experiences led by expert guides.

The diverse range of culinary adventures, including day, evening, and family-friendly options, ensures there’s something for every traveler. The company’s passionate team, fluent in English, is committed to delivering the best and most exciting experiences. From easy booking to seamless coordination, the company ensures that their each tour creates lasting memories.

Arigato Japan Food Tours Best Japan Tour Packages

Arigato Japan Food Tours offers several thrilling packages to explore the culinary delights of Japan. The 3-hour Tokyo Food Tour takes you through Ginza, showcasing hidden gems from the Showa period and allowing you to savor regional flavors from across Japan.

For a limited time during the 2024 Spring Season, the Daytime Hanami with a Local Tour in Osaka offers a unique experience in the Karahori district, away from the crowded parks. Immerse yourself in the charm of cherry blossoms while roaming in the local treats.

The Gion & Kaiseki Kyoto Tour is a luxurious journey through Kyoto’s historical Gion district. Stroll through the enchanting streets, learn about geisha culture, and culminate the experience with a memorable 10-course Kaiseki meal.

Arigato Japan Food Tours Reviews

Arigato Japan Food Tours is a premier tour agency in Japan. Arigato has over 1900 reviews on TripAdvisor, 97% of them having 5-star ratings. The company is adorned with numerous awards and recognition and ranks #2 out 59 food and drinks providers in Japan.

This tour was super fun. Our guide, Makiko was funny and friendly and so attentive. The sushi was absolutely the best we have ever eaten… Debbie R

Read all reviews of Arigato Japan Food Tours on TripAdvisor.

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Tokyo Localized

Tokyo Localized is a local Japanese tour company. The company was founded with a mission to provide unique Japanese vacation to international tourists. Tokyo Localized was established by Dai, a passionate Tokyo resident, to offer an authentic perspective of Tokyo through the eyes of locals. The company’s aim is to uncover the hidden gems and true essence of the city, steering away from conventional tourist spots.

Tokyo Localized Best Japan Tour Packages

Tokyo Localized offers several exciting packages that cater to different interests.

For those who want to experience the old-fashioned charm of Tokyo, the Yanaka Walking Tour is a great option. This tour takes you through a quiet neighborhood that survived World War II, and you’ll see traditional wooden temples and houses, as well as a huge cemetery and some unique temples. You’ll also get to walk on backstreets in the residential area and a shopping street for locals, giving you a glimpse into everyday Japanese life.

If you’re interested in food and history, the Tsukiji Fish Market Walking Food Tour is a must-do. This tour takes you around the outer market of the Tsukiji Fish Market, which was once the world’s biggest fish market. You’ll learn about the history of sushi and get to sample some of the delicious food that the market has to offer.

And for those who want to see both the old and new sides of Tokyo, the Original Free Walking Tour of Tokyo is a great choice. This tour covers everything from the ancient temples of Asakusa to the modern skyscrapers of Shinjuku. You’ll also get to try some traditional Japanese food and learn about the history and culture of the city.

Tokyo Localized Reviews

Tokyo Localized is one of the best travel and tour service provider of Japan with multiple international awards and recognition. It has over 1800 positive reviews on TripAdvisor, most of them comprising 5-star ratings, reflecting their high client satisfaction rate.

Great food tour on Christmas morning. Learned a lot. Came hungry, left with a full stomach. Keiko shared so much information and made the experience memorable… Chris

Read all reviews of Tokyo Localized on TripAdvisor.

Satoyama Experience

Satoyama Experience , founded in 2010, is the best-rated Japanese tour operator. The company is dedicated to connecting travelers with the authentic charm of Takayama’s countryside. Satoyama Experience strives to sustain local culture and biodiversity, promoting a positive impact on both visitors and residents while contributing to a more sustainable society.

Satoyama Experience Best Tour Packages

Satoyama Experience offers several exciting packages that let you experience the beauty of Japan.

The 3.5-Hour Guided Cycling Tour of Satoyama is a great way to get some exercise and see the sights. The tour takes you on a scenic 22 km route through the town, past natural havens and local gathering areas. You’ll also get to visit the local market, where you can try some of the local food.

If you’re interested in learning more about the local crafts, the Craft Walk Tour is a great option. This tour takes you to some of the best craft shops in Takayama, where you can learn about the history and production techniques of Hida craftsmanship.

And if you’re looking for a winter adventure, the Satoyama Snowshoeing Tour is the perfect choice. This tour takes you through a snow-covered village, where you can see wildlife and learn about the lives of the local people.

Satoyama Experience Reviews

Satoyama Experience is a top-rated tour operating agency in Japan. Satoyama’s outdoor activities and trips are highly rated with a ranking of 2 out of 36 outdoor activities in Takayama, Japan. It has 1,222 reviews on TripAdvisor, most of which are 5-star rating.

We experienced a Culture and Food tour of Takayama with Dong Ju that was fun, interesting and comprehensive… concordia39

Read all reviews of Satoyama Experience on TripAdvisor.

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Osaka Food Tours

Osaka Food Tours , a top-notch tour operator of Japan, provides a one-of-a-kind exploration of the vibrant city of Osaka. The company is led by the charismatic and knowledgeable guide, Andy, who offers a unique blend of Japanese and Australian perspectives. Unlike conventional food tours, the experiences provided by Osaka Food Tours takes you through the fascinating ghetto, retro zones, yakuza territories, red-light districts, and neighborhood alleys. The company also focuses on providing historical tours and beaten path tours.

Osaka Food Tours Best Japan Tour Packages

Osaka Food Tours offers different packages to explore the culinary delights of the vibrant city. The Backstreets Osaka Tour is a 3-hour adventure through the hidden gems of Osaka, including the ghetto, retro zone, and red light district, with an option to indulge in authentic local specialties and a local Izakaya experience.

The Osaka Food Tours package provides a guided exploration of Shinsekai and Nishinari. The tour uncovers Osakan food culture and featuring visits to market stalls, standing bars, and izakayas, along with two local Japanese drinks.

For a market-focused experience, the Kuromon Market Food Tour promises a feast of 10-13 Osaka specialties, ranging from seafood to desserts, all while providing an environmentally-friendly souvenir.

Osaka Food Tours Reviews

Osaka Food Tours is a renowned tour agency in Japan that has garnered numerous praise and positive reviews. The company has 1,389 reviews on TripAdvisor of which 97% are positive and have 5-star ratings. It’s rating of #3 out of 625 tour providers in Japan represents the company’s dedication in providing high quality services.

This tour was way more than we expected. Dom was extremely knowledgeable and gave us insights into Osaka’s past… Arlene D

Read all reviews of Osaka Food Tours on TripAdvisor.

Cycle Kyoto

Cycle Kyoto is one of the best Cycling tour providers in Japan. The company’s main mission is to provide ultimate cycling adventures to people of all ages. Founded in 2015 by passionate cyclists, Cycle Kyoto has flourished into one of Japan’s most beloved bike tour companies over the years. The company boasts highly experienced English speaking guides, a fleet of 18 and 21-speed cross bikes from renowned brands like ‘Giant’ and ‘Trek,’ Cycle Kyoto.

Cycle Kyoto Best Japan Tour Packages

Cycle Kyoto provides several exciting packages to explore the beauty of Kyoto on two wheels. The “ E-Bike Tour ” starts early, covering 25km in 6-7 hours. Highlights include Fushimi Inari Shrine, Tofukuji Temple, Ginkakuji Temple, and more.

The “ Full Day Tour ” spans 30km in 7-8 hours, combining both routes. It includes Nishi Honganji Temple, Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, the Golden Pavilion, and Gion.

For a focused experience, the “ North Kyoto Tour ” covers 22km in 6-7 hours. Highlights include Nishi Honganji Temple, Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, the Golden Pavilion, and Gion. Each package includes a bike, helmet, guide, lunch, and water.

Cycle Kyoto Reviews

As one of the finest Cycle tour operators in Japan, it’s no surprise that Cycle Kyoto has accumulated hundreds of positive reviews and praise from past clients. The company has over 1300 reviews on TripAdvisor, most of them having 5-star ratings and high appraisal from customers.

The tour was great. Juan was really helpful and considerate throughout the tour and also helped us take pictures. His knowledge and friendliness… vajjhas

Read all reviews of Cycle Kyoto on TripAdvisor.

Discover the stunning beauty of the Maldives with the highest-rated tour operators. Our guide to the 10 Best Tour Operators in the Maldives will help you plan the perfect getaway.

The best time to visit Japan depends on your preferences. You would rather see cherry blossoms in spring (March to May), experience colorful foliage in autumn (September to November), enjoy warm weather in summer (June to August), or explore a winter wonderland in December to February.

A good trip to Japan usually lasts around 10 to 14 days. This duration allows you to explore major cities like Tokyo and Kyoto, experience traditional culture, visit historical sites, and enjoy the scenic beauty.

Japan is not limited to guided tours; independent travel is common and accessible. The country has an efficient public transportation system, including trains and buses. English signage is prevalent in tourist areas, and many locals in urban areas understand basic English.

The cost of a Japan tour can vary widely based on factors like accommodation, transportation, activities, and dining preferences. On average, a mid-range budget for a 10-day trip might range from $3,000 to $5,000 per person.

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The overall holiday met the brief in…

The overall holiday met the brief in terms of us providing an introduction/taster for the key sites in Japan. Generally we were well pleased with the holiday. I’ve two areas that may need reviewing 1 The food that was provided on most nights was below our expectations. Part of the experience for us was immersing in the variety of food. On the last day we had a free day to explore on our own.On that day we ended up eating in a food hall in Tokyo. This food was more like what we were expecting 2 The tour guide didn’t always follow the itinerary. So we will never know what we really missed. Why include in the itinerary if it wasn’t worth seeing?

Date of experience : May 01, 2024

Wonderful trip to Japan in April

Wonderful trip to Japan in April. Two of us did a self-guided tour of Japan, with two private day tours. We were very fortunate to have seen so may cherry blossoms, and even an unexpected view of Mt Fuji. And being in Takayama for the Spring Festival was a wonderful experience. InsideJapanTours arranged all accommodation and train/bus/ferry ticketing for the trip, as well as the guide in Tokyo and the guide in Kyoto. The provided detailed Info Pack was easy to follow and the Destination Guides for our stops were a great source of information. We felt very well supported during our travels.

Date of experience : April 04, 2024

The most fantastic trip to discover Japan

This was the most fantastic trip to discover Japan. Like the country the trip went exactly to plan and organised to perfection . We felt we really got to understand the country and experience so much . The trip exactly met our wishes to experience both cities , the rural and the historic elements of this fascinating county . We cannot think of any ways we would change any element of the holiday .

Date of experience : April 15, 2024

The perfect 10 day trip across Japan

We had an incredible 10 day trip to Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto and Hiroshima. It was our first time visiting Japan, and the idea of researching and planning everything was very daunting to me. I'm so glad we worked with Inside Japan to plan all the logistics for us so we could travel with confidence and spend all our research energy on reading restaurant reviews and planning hikes instead of figuring out what train tickets we needed to buy. Highly recommend!

Date of experience : April 22, 2024

an excellent tailor-made tour

Inside Japan put together an excellent 4 week taster tour of Japan. The precision and clarity of their arrangements ensured we made the best use of our tme and felt completely secure and relaxed in our travels. We toured the country by train and bus - all tickets provided with exact timings and seats booke to ensure best views etc etc. Hotels in the heart of the action and convenient for transport. A fabulous company - they listen to what you want and provide invaluable knowledge, help and information. We had a fabulous time - thank you

Date of experience : March 22, 2024

Best tour guide EVER

The itinerary was fantastic - diverse and remote locations. All our hotels were great and in the middle of interesting and accessible areas. But the most impressive aspect was our wonderful tour guide. Brandon was knowledgeable, enthusiastic and informed in every aspect of our tour. He went way beyond in providing the best experience we could have hoped for. He was attentive, diligent and supportive - as well as having a sense of humour 😀

Date of experience : April 11, 2024

Attention to detail does really count when visiting a country like Japan.

Firstly, excellent listening by Inside Japan to what we wanted to see and experience in Japan. The documentation was excellent and made the trip so much easier. Having the WiFi to G4 mobile facility when out and about was a great idea and worth having. All the hotels were great except perhaps the traditional ryokan which we should have avoided as we didn't participate in the local customs in such a place. We informed Inside Japan of the sort of hotel and room we expect and on the whole had what we wanted. Sometimes having a great city view necessitated a slight compromise in the room, but all were perfectly adequate. All the travel was expertly planned and went without a hitch. We did the suggested excursions and enjoyed them.

Date of experience : April 16, 2024

Individually tailored trip to our…

Individually tailored trip to our interests. Very well organised with clear instructions and guidelines in booklet provided; all tickets provided and clearly labelled for various train and ferry trips. Craft experiences organised were first rate and interpreter provided of high standard at any activity where teacher was not fluent in English. Phone help line extremely helpful.

Date of experience : April 09, 2024

Sakura Travels in Tokyo and Beyond

Our recent self-guided tour of Japan was an excellent experience. We were very impressed with the attention to detail and accuracy presented in our "info-pack" which we heavily relied upon. All arrangements put in place by IJT worked seamlessly. Our day tour guides were very good and informative and added great value to the experience.

Date of experience : April 29, 2024

10 out of 10 for this company

Our trip was very well organised, which meant no stress! The hotels that were booked for us were all very nice and in fantastic locations. We received a handbook before we left home which contained all the information we needed. It was a great help when navigating Japan’s subway system. I would wholeheartedly recommend this company.

Date of experience : April 27, 2024

They listened to our requirements and…

They listened to our requirements and our trip fully met our expectations. It was well organised, we were given detailed information which made it easy to catch our trains, find the hotels etc. The hotels were well placed and of a good quality. The guides provided were pleasant and knowledgeable. We travelled on our own but felt well supported.

Date of experience : April 25, 2024

Fabulous trip on the Hidden Japan Tour with Inside Japan

Everything about my trip to Japan with InsideJapan was superb. The organisation, the hotels, the sights, our lovely tour leader Brandon - every day was a joy and I would highly recommend and will do to everyone.

Amazing Experience

Amy provided us with an amazing 2 week itinerary featuring cities and rural areas. All arrangements for hotels, activities, and trains were top notch. She took into account all of our interests and booked activities to match. We received a detailed itinerary and guides for the cities we were visiting. She communicated in a timely manner. It was a stress free vacation!

Date of experience : April 05, 2024

Japan is unlike anywhere else

Japan is unlike anywhere else. An alternative reality for the 21st century. InsideJapan brilliantly guide you through this extraordinary country with seamless travel arrangements and well-chosen hotels. You will have a truly memorable trip! The practical side of things like bookings, train reservations or helping to make sense of the public transport system is very well done (although we did make extensive use of taxis as well, in Tokyo and elsewhere). And their local team is very helpful with 24h hour support while you are actually there on your vacation. We had guides for 1 day each in Tokyo and in Kyoto and we provided them with an advance outline of what we expected to cover. This worked very well indeed. The selected hotels are all very well situated and are good at what they do but we might have preferred rather higher end. And some of the advance timetabling for visit dates could have been better. As with anything, the more input you can make at the planning stage, the better the result. Oh, and did I mention the food? Great choices and recommendations from InsideJapan.

Date of experience : April 18, 2024

Japan self guided tour

Our self guided tour went off without a hitch. All the arrangements worked perfectly, including hotels, trains, ferry, car hire and private guides. Very happy with service provided by Josey.

Great company always very helpful

Great company always very helpful. Great tour and guide, which was as described. Loved the fact it was a small group. We experienced some wonderful food views culture and company and would be happy to recommend Inside Japan Tours

Date of experience : April 26, 2024

Wonderful memories to last a lifetime.

We did the HyperJapan J-Pop & Go and had the most fabulous time. Our tour guide, Yorie, was wonderful and was able to get us to each area and activity as planned. We loved everything about the trip. The hotels were in very good locations, the food was amazing and the activities a great mix to give a taste of the culture of Japan and the craziness of J-pop.

Date of experience : March 28, 2024

One of the best holidays we’ve ever…

One of the best holidays we’ve ever had! Fantastic travel arrangements made for our two weeks in Japan. Great itinerary moving from city to more rural settings. Fabulous choice of hotels. Trains, metro, ferry, cable car, bicycles all worked to perfection. Don’t book your trip with anybody else - inside Japan couldn’t be faulted

Date of experience : April 21, 2024

Great hotels, extremely well organised. Made possible because of Chantelle, our tour director. Culturally relevant sites visited, and also some fun stuff. The food was amazing. Experiencing the bullet train was eye opening

Date of experience : April 17, 2024

Two weeks in Japan

Guides on two days, tickets for the train and in Hakune, advise on where to go. Less good were the tiny rooms, being left in an hour Q for a taxi in Kyoto, arriving at our house before it was ready with four big suitcases. More guiding would have been good and I would not recommend Osaka unless you really like bustling cities with grimy tourist areas and nothing of real interest for tourists.

China launches Chang'e 6 lunar probe, revving up space race with U.S.

WENCHANG SPACE LAUNCH SITE, China — China launched an uncrewed lunar spacecraft Friday in a first-of-its-kind mission to bring back samples from the far side of the moon, the latest step in a rapidly advancing Chinese space program that is spurring competition with the United States and others. 

The Chang’e 6 lifted off on time at 5:27 p.m. local time (5:27 a.m. ET) from the Wenchang Space Launch Site in China’s southern island province of Hainan.

The launch of the lunar probe, which NBC News was one of a handful of news organizations to attend, and the national excitement around it had transformed the normally sleepy fishing village of Longlou into a major tourist attraction, with crowds spilling from tour buses and heading to beaches and rooftops with the best views of the spaceport. One rooftop owner said he had sold out 200 seats at 200 yuan (about $28) each.

Ahead of the launch there was a festival-like atmosphere on the beach, where vendors offered space paraphernalia and groups of children sold Chinese flags for 3 yuan (about 40 cents) each. Families sprawled on picnic blankets playing cards, while others strung up hammocks between palm trees so they could wait in the limited shade.

Yiuwah Ng, a 28-year-old real estate office worker from the southern Chinese city of Zhuhai, traveled six hours by car and another three hours by ferry to stake out the best spot along the shore, where he had been camping for three days with friends and his dog. 

“I want to witness this historic moment,” he said of the launch, his fourth. “It’s an important first step for China’s lunar exploration.”

Max Zhang, a self-described “rocket chaser” from the southern Chinese city of Guangzhou, has been photographing launches at Wenchang from the beach since 2011. 

“I’m addicted to the shock of seeing the launches, especially the sound of the rocket flame,” he said. “It shakes my heart.”

‘ A force to be reckoned with’

If successful, the Chang’e mission will be a crucial step in realizing the country’s goals of landing Chinese astronauts on the moon by 2030 and eventually building a base on the lunar surface.

The outcome of the mission will also have implications far beyond China’s borders. A slew of spacefaring nations — including Russia, India, Japan and the U.S. — also have their sights set on the moon, creating what some experts have likened to a new kind of space race.

“China is trying to prove that it’s a force to be reckoned with, and so it’s always that China is competing against everyone in space,” said Clayton Swope, deputy director of the Aerospace Security Project at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington.

A successful Chang’e 6 mission would demonstrate how sophisticated China’s lunar exploration program has become in a relatively short time.

“Twenty-five years ago, they had very rudimentary space capabilities,” said Todd Harrison, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, a public policy think tank based in Washington. “Going from that to where they are today — I think they’ve clearly exceeded Russia, and their space capabilities are really only second to the United States.”

China achieved its first moon landing in 2013 with the Chang’e 3 mission, which set a lander and rover on the lunar surface to study the moon’s terrain. Before that, only the U.S. and the former Soviet Union had successfully landed spacecraft on the moon.

In 2019, China notched another historic milestone with its Chang’e 4 flight, becoming the first country to land a probe on the far side of the moon , the part that permanently faces away from Earth.

The following year, in 2020, China returned to the moon’s near side, which always faces Earth, landing the Chang’e 5 spacecraft on a volcanic plain known as Oceanus Procellarum. The probe retrieved samples there and brought them back to Earth, representing a big technological leap forward. 

The China National Space Administration (CNSA) has invited scientists from the U.S., Europe and Asia to apply to borrow the lunar samples for their own research, holding a pitch meeting last week in the Chinese city of Wuhan. Researchers funded by NASA received rare approval from Congress to submit proposals, raising the possibility of high-level U.S.-China space cooperation that is otherwise prohibited by U.S. law.

This time, the Chang’e 6 spacecraft is aiming to land and retrieve samples from the South Pole-Aitken basin, an ancient and sprawling impact crater on the far side of the moon.

Conducting a sample return mission from the side of the moon that always faces away from Earth is challenging because mission controllers on the ground have no way of directly contacting a spacecraft in that region. Instead, signals need to be relayed through a satellite now orbiting the moon that China launched from the same site in Hainan last month.

While difficult, the effort could have enormous payoffs. Studies suggest that the moon’s near side was more volcanically active than the far side, which means all of the lunar samples obtained thus far may be telling only part of the story of the moon’s origin and evolution.

Collecting lunar samples from different geological eras and regions “is of great value and significant for all mankind to have a more comprehensive understanding of the moon and even the origin of the solar system,” Ge Ping, a mission leader from CNSA’s Lunar Exploration and Space Engineering Center, told reporters in Hainan on Thursday.

Beyond its scientific objectives, the Chang’e 6 mission carries with it geopolitical considerations. The flight is a precursor to a pair of Chinese robotic missions to the moon’s south pole to scout locations to build a moon base. Last year, the Chinese and Russian space agencies agreed to jointly build a research station on the lunar surface.

NASA and its commercial partners also aim to establish a permanent presence at the lunar south pole, though the agency’s Artemis moon missions have faced numerous delays and budget overruns . The current timeline has American astronauts returning to the lunar surface in 2026 at the earliest.

With China and Russia forming a rival coalition, there is some pressure for the U.S. to keep its foot on the accelerator, Harrison said.

“It does matter who gets there first, and it matters how you get there and what kind of coalition you’re bringing with you,” he said.

NASA Administrator Bill Nelson has on multiple occasions warned that the U.S. runs the risk of falling behind China’s lunar ambitions. In an interview this week with Yahoo Finance , Nelson outlined what’s at stake in the new space race.

“I think it’s not beyond the pale that China would suddenly say, ‘We are here. You stay out,’” he said.

Asked Thursday about international competition in space, Ge said, “All countries in the world should explore, develop and use outer space peacefully.” 

“There is no need to worry too much,” he added. “Space programs are for all humans.”

As more countries around the world build up space capabilities, NASA has pushed for more global cooperation, establishing the Artemis Accords in 2020 to promote peaceful, responsible and sustainable practices. U.S. law prevents China from joining the 39 other nations that have signed the accords, which both China and Russia have criticized as a tool to promote U.S. dominance in space.

Many Western space policy experts have in turn raised concerns about China’s and Russia’s intentions. The full scope of China’s ambitions in space is not known, for instance, because its space agency does not operate with the same level of transparency as NASA. The country’s space program is also more closely tied to the military than in the U.S.

“We cannot ever say that China’s investment in civilian space technologies are only civilian and not to be used for military purposes,” said Namrata Goswami, a professor in the Thunderbird School of Global Management at Arizona State University and co-author of the 2020 book “Scramble for the Skies: The Great Power Competition to Control the Resources of Outer Space.”

While it may feel as if China’s spaceflight objectives have accelerated in recent years, they are part of a decadeslong strategy, Goswami said.

“Many of the leaders of China’s space program announced these goals and timelines 20 years ago,” she said. “What is astounding to me is that they are achieving almost all their milestones on time, and for them, that has a strategic advantage in the global narrative of who’s doing it better.”

As much as the moon and its resources can provoke competition among nations, space exploration can also be unifying, Swope said.

“We are literally a speck in the universe, and when we go to the moon or explore space, we as humankind have that shared human trait where we want to understand the unknown and we want to discover,” he said. “That does transcend politics.”

Janis Mackey Frayer reported from the Wenchang Space Launch Site in China, and Denise Chow reported from New York.

Janis Mackey Frayer is a Beijing-based correspondent for NBC News.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

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Nigerian nabbed in Japan for drug smuggling through romance scam

Police have arrested a Nigerian man for allegedly smuggling 15.9 kilograms of stimulant drugs worth about ¥957 million from Britain in September 2021, using his Japanese romance scam victim.

The Tokyo police did not disclose whether the suspect admitted to the allegation.

According to police, the suspect's group pretended to be a British woman and contacted the Japanese man, who is in his 60s and lives in Okayama, on social media in October 2020. After exchanging messages for nearly a year, the group asked the Japanese man to go to Yokohama to pick up luggage.

The Japanese man agreed to receive it for "her," not knowing that the content was stimulant drugs. But he later refused to receive it, citing his health problems.

The luggage was discovered by customs officials at a quay in Yokohama.

According to police, similar cases of romance scam victims being tricked into helping smuggle illegal drugs continue to occur.

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