I am very happy to say this trip exceeded my expectations. Our group of three singles from Australia & Germany, and a Canadian couple made a great mix. What made the tour exceptional was our guide Akemi. She was caring, funny & knowledgeable and nothing was too much trouble for her. She took the hassle out of travelling though Tokyo, Kyoto & Osaka and then even more importantly to me, the backroads, which is what I have wanted to see but would not have known how to. I would not have enjoyed it as much having to work out the logistics. The tour is a great complement of nature and popular city landmarks with enough free time. The hotels, ryokans & included meals were great. I chose the single supplement which was worth it. At times I felt our group were the only tourists in town, and we did get to have ryokans exclusively- the bonus of touring pre cherry blossom season! It's still so beautiful and definitely less busy. Thank you Akemi, my Backroad Buddies and World Expeditions for such a memorable trip.
A trip that I will cherish forever! An amazing way to experience Japan in a short trip for your first time. Being able to meet people all over the world and share the experience was perfect. For the price and freedom to explore when not busy was worth every cent. Almost overwhelming how much you get to see and do in the prettiest place in the world. Felt safe and if I needed anything my guide was able to help. Met so many amazing people that I consider valued friends in just 10 days of fun. Couldn’t have asked for a better experience!
We had a great trip to Japan, our guide Tatsuya was amazing and worked very hard to showcase his country, his knowledge of Shinto and Buddhism was very impressive. We particularly enjoyed the home stay and staying family owned accommodation. The trip gave us a well balanced taste of Japan from the cities to the rural areas and the culture, we achieved a lot.