Independent Tokyo, Kyoto & Hiroshima City Stays

The price covers all accommodation, a private English‑speaking guide for each city, Shinkansen bullet‑train transfers between Tokyo, Kyoto and Hiroshima, entrance fees to the listed attractions, local transportation (subway, tram day pass and any private‑guide transport), and meals as indicated in the itinerary. Typically breakfast is provided daily and selected lunches or dinners are included, although the exact meals are not detailed in the source data.

No. The tour price does not include international flights to or from Japan. Travelers must arrange and pay for their own airfare separately. The package starts after arrival in Tokyo and ends with departure from Hiroshima.

Optional expenses such as personal souvenirs, meals or drinks not listed in the itinerary, tips for guide or driver, and any extra activities outside the program are not covered. Additionally, travel insurance, visa fees (if required) and airport transfers are separate costs.

The provider offers installment plans on request. Accepted payment methods typically include major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express) and bank transfers. You should confirm the exact terms and schedule with the tour operator before booking.

The specific cancellation policy is not provided in the source information. Generally, tour operators require written notice and may retain a percentage of the deposit depending on how far in advance the cancellation occurs. Contact the tour provider directly for the exact refund schedule and any applicable fees.

Travel insurance is not included in the tour price and is not mandatory according to the available data. However, the provider strongly recommends purchasing a policy that covers medical emergencies, trip interruption, and personal belongings, especially when traveling abroad.

A reasonable daily budget in Japan is €30‑50 for meals not covered by the tour and €20‑40 for souvenirs or incidental purchases. Prices can vary by city; Tokyo tends to be slightly more expensive than Kyoto or Hiroshima. Adjust the amount based on personal preferences and planned activities.

Exact start times and meeting locations are not listed in the source data. Typically, private tours begin between 8:30 am and 9:30 am at the hotel lobby or a designated meeting point. The operator will provide a detailed daily schedule and meeting instructions a few days before the tour begins.

Airport transfers are not mentioned among the included services. Therefore, they are likely not part of the package, and travelers should arrange their own transportation between the airports and their first/last hotels. Options include airport limousines, trains, or taxis.

The Shinkansen allows each passenger to bring up to 30 kg of luggage, with larger items placed in the overhead racks or designated luggage areas. No extra fee is charged for standard-sized suitcases, but oversized or additional bags may require a reservation of a luggage space.

The itinerary covers nine full days from arrival in Tokyo to departure from Hiroshima. Many travelers add 2‑3 extra days either before the tour to explore Tokyo or after the tour to relax in Hiroshima or visit nearby islands. Adjust the length based on your interests and flight schedules.

The tour operator typically sends the guide’s name, phone number and email a few days prior to the start date, along with a welcome packet that includes the detailed itinerary and meeting points. You can also request the information directly from the provider if you need it earlier.

You will need a passport valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date. If your nationality requires a visa, obtain it before travel. It is also advisable to carry a printed copy of your tour confirmation, proof of onward travel, and proof of sufficient funds.

The tour information does not state that travel insurance is mandatory. While not required, the provider advises all participants to purchase a comprehensive policy that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and personal belongings, as health care costs in Japan can be high for non‑residents.

Yes. The tour is designed as a private, family‑friendly experience with flexible pacing, visits to cultural sites such as temples and museums, and transportation on comfortable Shinkansen trains. Attractions like the Samurai and Ninja Museum and the Tokyo Skytree are engaging for children, and the guide can adapt the schedule to family needs.

The itinerary involves moderate walking, occasional stairs (e.g., at Tokyo Skytree’s observation deck and temple complexes), and standing during guided tours. No strenuous hiking is required. A basic level of fitness—being able to walk 3‑4 km per day and climb a few flights of stairs—is sufficient.

The tour is paced for comfort, using public transportation and private guide vehicles that reduce walking distances. Attractions are generally accessible, though some historic sites may have uneven surfaces. Seniors who can manage moderate walking and limited stairs should find the program suitable, and the guide can adjust the schedule as needed.

The itinerary includes two UNESCO World Heritage sites: the Peace Memorial Park and its associated museum in Hiroshima, and Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island, accessed via ferry from Hiroshima. Both sites are highlighted during the guided portion of the Hiroshima segment.

Yes. While the core program follows a structured schedule of guided visits, the itinerary includes designated free periods in Tokyo, Kyoto and Hiroshima. During these times you can explore neighborhoods, shop, or relax at your own pace. Exact free‑time slots are detailed in the daily schedule provided before departure.

For travelers visiting Japan for the first time, the Independent Tokyo, Kyoto & Hiroshima City Stays offers a balanced mix of iconic landmarks, cultural experiences and convenient transportation. The private English‑speaking guide provides context and navigation, reducing the stress of independent planning while still allowing some free time to explore personally.

Booking the tour provides a pre‑arranged itinerary, reserved seats on the Shinkansen, entry fees covered, and a knowledgeable English‑speaking guide who handles logistics and local insights. This saves time on research, eliminates language barriers, and often secures better rates for transport and attractions than a solo traveler might obtain on short notice.

Travelers who value convenience, cultural depth and a structured schedule benefit most—especially families, first‑time visitors, and those with limited time who want to see Japan’s major cities without arranging each detail themselves. The private guide and included transport also appeal to seniors and groups seeking a comfortable, hassle‑free experience.

Before departure, ensure your passport is valid for at least six months, obtain any required visa, purchase travel insurance, and confirm your flight details. Pack comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing for seasonal weather, a power adapter for Japanese outlets, and any personal medication. Review the detailed itinerary and bring a copy of the tour confirmation and emergency contacts.

The €5,456.38 price includes accommodation, private guide services, Shinkansen tickets, entrance fees, and many meals, which can add up if booked separately. While independent planning may be cheaper for budget travelers, the tour offers convenience, guaranteed seat reservations on high‑speed trains, and expert guidance—benefits that many travelers find justify the cost.