Capture the best of The Land of The Rising Sun with these top tour companies.
When it comes to arresting landscapes brimming with colour, cityscapes teeming with life and a unique culture rich in history, there’s little that can compare to Japan. Its capital city, Tokyo, alone is a feast for the senses, featuring neon-lit suburbs, historical temples, shrines and non-stop nightlife.
Head further west to Kyoto to walk the lanes of the old capital and marvel at its Shinto shrines and wooden homesteads, or visit Hiroshima to immerse yourself in history. Make sure you spare some time to see Osaka and delight in its mouth-watering street foods before exploring its famous 16th century castle.
With so much to do, including seeing the cherry blossoms in-bloom in spring, there’s no better option to ensure that you see it all than a guided tour. We have personally selected some of the best tours available that are sure to tick all the boxes.
1. Voyagin
Specialising in tours and experiences in Asia, Voyagin lets you book in for a sushi or kobe beef dinners or weeklong cycling tours during cherry blossom season - and just about every Japanese experience in between.
- Offers both short day tours and classes and multi-day adventures
- Special offers section features experiences for up to 50% off
- More than 2,000 tours and experiences in Japan alone
2. Contiki
Youth and adventure travel specialist Contiki might not offer as many tours of Japan as other companies, but if you’re a fan of the brand then the Japan Unrivalled tour is a 13-day expedition through Tokyo, Hakone, Takayama, Hiroshima, Kyoto, Wakayama and Osaka that is beyond compare.
- Low deposits (€100 for the current tour) to secure placement.
- All tours are verified by customer reviews.
- Local English speaking guides will guide you through the country.
3. G Adventures
Offering everything from Classic to Yolo to Active tours, G Adventures is a mecca for adventurous travel throughout Japan.
- Various Japanese tours available for as short as 5 days long.
- All Japan tours are small group experiences with 12 people or less.
- Various tour styles and activity levels are available to suit your travel needs.
4. Geckos Adventures
Packed with local adventures for the 18-30-something crowd, Geckos offers a 10-day Japan tour that's sure to tick most sites off your bucket list.
- Group sizes are limited to 16
- Includes stays in traditional Ryokans
- Caters to single travellers
5. Intrepid Travel
Intrepid offers more than just your generic highlights tour (although it does offer that too if that’s your cup of tea). Its wealth of specialised tours caters to various whims and fancies, from family-friendly holidays to winter festivals. Searching for something specific? Try Intrepid.
- Specialised tours including winter festival, family-friendly, Japanese food and Mt Fuji options.
- Basix, Comfort and Original tour styles available to suit various budgets and travel needs.
- Tours can be as short as 4 days.
6. TourRadar
A specialist in tours worldwide, TourRadar offers one of the biggest selections of experiences online. With TourRadar you can choose from over 70 independent, nature, adventure and cultural tours throughout Japan.
- Best prices are guaranteed or TourRadar will match competitor prices for the same tour on the same date.
- 24/7 customer support and assistance available.
- 75 Japan tours currently available, with 200 reviews to verify the experience.
7. Viator
Viator is ideal for those seeking a taster of Japan. Whether you’re booked in for a short trip or you just want to get your bearings before you embark on further exploration, one of its 1-3 day tours is the perfect starting point for your trip.
- Low price guarantee or Viator will match the price of the same tour for the same dates.
- All tours are verified by customer reviews.
- Cherry blossom/Sakura tours available.
8. STA Travel
When travelling on a shoestring budget, STA Travel can help. It specialises in budget and youth travel and offers a wealth of cultural and outdoor experiences for those travelling to Japan.
- Budget tours and tours specifically for 18-35 year olds are available.
- Book tours up to two years in advance so you can start saving now.
- STA offers regular discounts, so keep checking back to see if the tour you like drops in price.
9. Princess Cruises
If you're looking for something a little different, check out Princess Cruises' cruise tour offerings. Combine a five or seven-day land tour with a sailing around Japan.
- See the best of Japan's coastline and interior
- All meals included on the cruise portion and most food during the land portion
- Become a Captain's Circle member for discounts on future cruises
10. Topdeck
Specialising in tours for 18-39 year olds, Topdeck will have you in awesome company when you journey to Japan.
- Cherry blossom/Sakura tours available.
- 24/7 customer support and assistance available.
- Caters to single travellers
