Private Japan Tours & Luxury Vacations

Nationals of many countries, including the US (for up to 90 days), are eligible to enter Japan without a visa unless the purpose of the visit is to reside in Japan, to obtain employment or to otherwise engage in remunerative activities.

For additional information regarding visas and entry, please refer to the Japanese Embassy Website. 

New Years Day – Jan 1st
Coming of Age Day – mid January
National Foundation Day – Feb 11th
Spring Equinox – Mar 20th or 21st
Greenery Day – Apr 29th
Constitution Day – May 3rd
Children’s Day – early May
Respect for the Aged Day – mid September
Autumn Equinox- Sep 23rd or 24th
Health – Sports Day – Oct 10th
Culture Day – early November
Labour Thanksgiving Day  – Nov 23rd
Emperor Akihito’s Birthday – Dec 23rd

Departure taxes are now included in the price of your air tickets. However, this policy is subject to change by government authorities without notice.

On Domestic flights, passengers are allowed 44 pounds of luggage per person. On International flights, passengers are allowed two pieces of checked luggage. Excess luggage fees will be charged if you check more than the stated allowances, and these charges are your responsibility.  

When traveling on trains, overhead bins are available for small to medium size baggage. For larger bags, we recommend shipping them separately, a very convenient and cost-effective service widely available throughout Japan. This service is usually included if you booked one of our Japan tour packages. For most city pairs, your bags will be delivered to your hotel the next day. 

Japan is generally a rainy country with high humidity. Because of its wide range of latitude, Japan has a variety of climates, with a range often compared to that of the east coast of North America, from Nova Scotia to Georgia. The temperature varies widely over the country on any given day — annual average temperatures range from 43 F/6 C to 72 F/22 C, depending on where you are. Between October and April, temperatures are mild during the day and cool at night. May, June and July are the rainiest months, and June, July and August are hotter and more humid. Winter months can become quite cold in various areas in Japan. Be sure to check the weather for your specific destination before you pack.

International Direct Dialing (IDD) service is provided at all hotels. SIM Cards for your mobile phone can be purchased locally, or you may check with your mobile service provider if an international plan may be available. 

Internet Access will be available at all hotels although charges may apply. Wifi is widely available in public areas including restaurants and hotel lobby.

Pocket Wifi Rentals are a great way to stay connected for as little as $5 per day. These are pocket-size hotspot devices that allow connections from multiple devices and offer fast and reliable service throughout Japan. For more information and rental options, please visit www.JapanWireless.com 

In addition, mobile Apps such as WhatsApp, Skype and Facebook Messenger provide free/cheap and convenient ways to stay connected. 

Most hotels provide postal services for documents and small packages. 

The unit of Japanese currency is yen. Coins are available in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 50, 100 and 500 yen and bank notes in denominations of 1,000, 2,000, 5,000 and 10,000 yen. The current exchange rate is approximately one US Dollar for 108 yen (April 2020).

Major credit cards such as American Express, VISA, Diners Club and MasterCard are acceptable st hotels, restaurants and larger shops. 

Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs) are commonly available throughout Japan, located inside airports and most convenient stores. Currency exchange is also available at major hotels and local banks. 

For our blog on Customs, Traditions & Etiquette, click HERE.

According to related laws and regulations, the luggage of inbound and outbound passengers must come under customs supervision and control. Passengers should make accurate declarations to customs officials regarding the luggage they carry into or out of the territory.

Voltage in Japan is 100 volts. Voltage converters are not required for portable electronic devices such as mobile phones, laptop computers and cameras, though electrical adapters maybe necessary. 

Tap water is safe to drink anywhere in Japan. Mineral water including major imported brands can be easily obtained from super markets, convenience stores and other similar places.

There are no inoculations required for entering Japan from anywhere around the world. Medical systems and facilities in Japan are well established so that you can expect to receive a high standard medical treatment, should you have a problem with your health during your stay.

Tipping is not customary in Japan. This includes services from taxi drivers, bell service, and restaurant staff. Often a service charge of 10% or 15% is automatically added to your bill, especially at Western style hotels and first class establishments.

Tipping is also not expected by your tour guides. If you would like to extend a gesture of appreciation, a small gift from your hometown (baseball cap, small souvenir) will go a long way! 

Japan has some of the best public transportation infrastructure in the world. The are convenient, efficient and relatively cost effective. Most of our Japan tours, unless otherwise specified, utilizes public transportation such as trains, buses and taxis for sightseeing. This is an excellent way to really experience Japan and immerse in the local culture. Some tours do include private cars or are part of a larger group (though rare). Please refer to your tour itinerary for specifics. 

Japan has one of the world’s most highly developed transportation systems. The rail service alone covers almost all possible destinations. In addition, there is the national highway system, and a well developed domestic air service. Buses and taxis provide connections around the clock in the cities, while ferry boats link Tokyo, Osaka and Kobe with the main ports on Hokkaido and Kyushu.

Valid Passport. Copy of Your Airline Ticket. Your Medicines. Departure documents. Camera(s) and portable electronic devices such as tablets, mobile phones or laptops. Sunscreen/Tan lotion.  Pocket size Kleenex. Extra luggage locks/keys. Folding Umbrella.  Comfortable walking shoes.