This is such a well designed itinerary to see the real Japan, from their rich history and Culture to the modern side it was amazing how you travel through their history along the trip. You get to see a LOT of places along the way in a manner that feels like you have accomplished a lot but not too quickly. I think anyone going to Japan has to be prepared for a lot of travelling and moving around, especially as almost everything is on public transport. Don't let this put you off as it is the best public transport in the world! So clean, always on time, friendly and respectful people - coming back to the UK after the trip was a real shock after we got experienced to the Japanese way.
Ikumi was the most friendly, knowledgeable and hospitable guide, her enthusiasm was infectious. Under her guidance, the group became good friends by the end of the night. This was our first night out in Japan, and thanks to Ikumi we had the confidence and love of Japanese food to revisit the areas she had introduced us to. During our all too brief stay we also ventured into other areas of Tokyo and also in Kyoto. Ikumi was also generous in investigating and getting back to us (on her own time) in response to our many other questions. We cannot thank her enough. Ikumi is one of the reasons we will revisit Japan.
I unfortunately had to join this trip last minute due to my previous trip being cancelled with a different operator. It was the best available alternative but meant I missed out of Mount Fuji which I really wanted to see. I ended up leaving the group at Kyoto to include a trip to Fuji san and caught up with them in Osaka.