Last Updated on April 9, 2024 by Christine Kaaloa
Note: Read thoroughly and if you’re interested fill out my linked Guest Interest Form as a precursor to booking.
Trip Overview
This Iconic Japan Group Tour for Solo Travelers is a personally customized and organized group trip itinerary. This itinerary is jam-packed with drool-worthy, once-in-a-lifetime experiences and food. We will satisfy our curiosities about Japan’s cultural mystique.
You will have one day to choose an optional Nara trip, return home or travel onward. The trip will have a local guide to aid our deeper understanding of the culture and a manager will accompany us to ensure safety.
- Trip Duration: 11 days
- Trip Date: Sep 2-12, 2024
- Route:📍 Tokyo 📍 Mount Fuji 📍 Shizuoka 📍Kyoto 📍Osaka 📍Optional Nara
- Number of Spots: 8 guests needed to operate this tour; 12 spots available
Note: Do not book your flights until I have solidified our minimum. - Arrive at Narita International Airport (NRT – Tokyo)
- Depart from Kansai International Airport (Osaka).
- Deposit: To reserve your spot, a $700 deposit will be required. However, to ensure peace of mind, this deposit is refundable – minus a 3% transaction fee – for 30 days.
*Our adventure operator is a licensed responsible tour operator in Japan.
Welcome to legendary Japan! I’m excited to share this guided bucket list dip into Japan as we dive into the iconic titans of Japanese culture, from Japanese food to 100-year traditions. Bring your camera and be prepared to take a lot of photos, because you will experience the mystique that intoxicates travelers when it comes to Japanese culture. You’ll make lasting memories in Japan and with myself -Christine- as your host on this amazing once-in-a-lifetime GRRRLTRAVELER adventure!
Have dinner with a maiko in Kyoto, watch sumo wrestlers train in Tokyo, take a ride on Japan’s bullet train, stay at a ryokan in Hakone and eat tasty Japanese food every step of the way.
We will weave through Japan’s best highlights to experience a variety of legendary faces in food, neighborhoods, artisans and famous attractions. We’ll eat our way through Tsukiji Market and explore Gion in search of geisha and learn how to make bento boxes in Kyoto.
Visiting Japan’s ex-capital, we will experience a tea ceremony in Kyoto as we temple hop and stroll through a geisha district.
Finally, we’ll make our way to Japan’s kitchen to learn how to cook foods that made Osaka a culinary innovator.
You will have a free day where you can spend it sightseeing or shopping at your leisure or you can join Christine on an excursion that you will have a chance to vote on.
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Tokyo
After your arrival at the airport, you will take the Narita Skyliner train to Nippori station. At speeds of up to 100 mph, the Skyliner is the second fastest train service in Japan behind only the bullet train. You will head to your hotel to drop your luggage at your hotel.
In the evening, you will begin your journey with a food tour around Shinjuku’s Golden Gai area.
We will have a Facebook and Whatsapp group for folks to connect in advance to coordinate meetups! There will be one designated meetup time where Christine will meet you at the airport. Oooh, this is so exciting.
Dinner: Food tour
Day 2: Tokyo: Explore the Capital
Today, you’ll visit the east of the capital. After a first stop in the traditional district of Asakusa and its famous temple, Sensoji, the oldest temple in Tokyo, you’ll visit Tsukiji’s fish market which used to be the largest in the world. Here, you can stroll through the stores and restaurants and enjoy lunch to your heart’s content. In the afternoon, you’ll visit TeamLab Planets, a world-famous avant-garde digital art exhibition.
In the evening, we suggest you attend an optional home cooking class where you’ll learn how to make gyoza, gyudon and miso soup with your Japanese host.
Dinner on your own.
Day 3 : Tokyo Discovery
Rise and shine, this morning, you’ll experience taiko, the Japanese drums used in traditional music.
After a lunch at Sakuratei where you will cook your own okonomiyaki, a Japanese savoury pancake, you’ll head to the city’s most important shrine, Meiji Jingu which is dedicated to the late Emperor. No wonder you will be amazed by its deep forest located in the centre of the city.
Then, we’ll visit the young, colorful and sweet district of Harajuku and the neighboring districts Omotesando, the Japanese Champs Elysees, and Shibuya, famous for its enormous crossing.
Tonight we will be staying at a Japanese capsule hotel.
Dinner on your own.
Day 4: Looking for Mt Fuji
Today is going to be a full day, so I hope you got your rest! Before heading out the capital, you will prepare a small bag and your main luggage will be sent directly to Kyoto.
Then, we will head toward the Five Lakes region of Mount Fuji by Express Bus. Our first stop will be at the iconic Arakura Fuji Sengen sanctuary. You’ll quickly recognize it from the multitudes of dreamy photos taken from it looking out at Mount Fuji, weather permitting.
For lunch, you’ll enjoy the local speciality of this region, Hoto noodles! Yum. In the afternoon we will ride the retro bus and visit the traditional village of Saiko Iyashi-no-sato, on the shores of Lake Kawaguchiko. On the way back you will stop at Park Oishii.
In the evening back at our traditional Japanese inn (ryokan), you’ll enjoy hot springs and a gourmet kaiseki dinner.
All meals included.
Day 5: A Day in Shizuoka
Today, we’ll board a minibus that will take us to the Shizuoka prefecture, for a walk on the Mishima Skywalk, the longest suspended bridge in Japan. From there, we will witness Mount Fuji from a different angle. Afterwards, you will enjoy a bowl of kaisen- don in Fuji city harbour.
In the afternoon, we will visit a nearby tea farm, meet the owner, and experience a tea tasting.
Finally, you will take the shinkansen, Japan’s high-speed train, to Kyoto, for a first evening at leisure in Japan’s ancient capital.
Dinner on your own.
Day 6 : Kyoto: Temple Walk & Geishas
Rise and shine! We’re waking up in one of the world’s most beautiful cities, Kyoto. In the morning, you will head for the Golden Pavilion, a temple covered in gold leaves. Back in the city center, you’ll have lunch in a standing buckwheat soba noodles and vegetables tempura specialized restaurant.
Then, you will head to Higashiyama district, an area in Kyoto of tea houses, boutiques and retains its traditional architectural charms. and visit its most famous temple, Kiyomizu-dera which offers a beautiful view of the city. You will have time to also enjoy its surrounding traditional shopping streets Ninenzaka and Sannnenzaka.
In the late afternoon, you will enjoy a walking food tour of Gion, the traditional geisha district.
All meals
Day 7 : Kyoto: Morning in Arashiyama
This morning, you could freely visit Arashiyama district, famous for its beautiful bamboo forest. After a stroll in the forest, you will have a Buddhist lunch at Tenryu-ji.
The afternoon is free for your leisure.
There’s endless ways to explore Kyoto either with your new travel family or on your own. And not to worry, Christine and your tour manager will be there to offer trip guidance.
Dinner on your own.
Day 8: Kyoto: Experiencing Sake
Today, you’ll have a free morning to explore Kyoto at your leisure.
In the afternoon, you will visit the famous Fushimi Inari Taisha and its rows of torii, the portals that in Shinto symbolize entry into the world of the deities. Afterwards, you will have a sake experience in the brewery district.
Tonight you will have a Japanese dinner on the banks of the Kamogawa.
Day 9: Welcome Osaka
This morning, you will head for Osaka, the kitchen of Japan.
The day before, you will have prepared a small bag and your main luggage will wait for you today in your hotel, so you can go straight to the top of the Umeda Sky Building for a breathtaking view of the city. Afterwards, you’ll visit the retro district of Shinsekai and enjoy a kushikatsu lunch, before visiting the Namba Yasaka shrine, famous for its lion- head-shaped building.
In the late afternoon, you’ll head for Osaka’s famous food street Dotonbori, where you’ll be free to explore its many street food stalls.
Dinner on own
Day 10: Free Day: Encountering Deer
Today you will enjoy a free day in the Kansai region. You are welcome to explore and shop Osaka or spend it visiting Nara, its park and its temples.
If you choose Nara, we recommend visiting its many historic buildings, such as Todaiji Temple the largest wooden building in the world, home to a 13-meter height Buddha statue, or the Kasuga Taisha Shrine, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site.
In the evening, we’ll say our farewells over a delicious dinner .
Lunch/Dinner on your own
Day 11: Osaka
Sadly, our romance of Japan has to come to an end.
Time flies so fast when you’re having fun! It’s time to say goodbye to your travel family. But in travel we don’t say goodbye– just see you later!
After breakfast you are welcome to take the train to the airport or onward to your next destination if you plan to stay in Japan longer.
If photos are not loading, see the slide show at the top!
What is included?
Inclusions
- Double Occupancy Accommodation
- Tour manager and guide
- Meals as listed in the itinerary
- Transportation covered: retro train,
- Any entrance fees, attraction, activity, and cultural event fees
- Guided city, village and food tours
- Pre-trip Facebook Group & Zoom meeting to answer questions
- Whatsapp Group to connect with your travel family pre/during the trip
Trip Exclusions
-
- International flights to and from Japan
- Trip Insurance is *required*.
- Japan Visa if required.
- Covid vaccinations
- Pre and post-travel COVID-19 tests for Japan entry
- Airport Transfers
- IC card and metro fare (factor in $60USD). At this time, Japan is not issuing new IC cards, but travelers can purchase either an IC card individually at the airport and online.
- You will be responsible for some meals. Budget between $20 per meal (extra if you drink alcohol).
- Alcoholic beverages
- Gratuities for tour manager
- Hotel room service or extra snacks/amenities/laundry
- Souvenirs & personal shopping expenses
- Any services not mentioned in the plan
Things to Know about this Japan Adventure
PAWSitive Impact Promise
As animal lovers, our goal is to make a positive impact on street and mistreated animals. When we meet our guest minimum of eight people, we will donate $2.00 a day – for each guest- to an international street animal rescue organization of our choice. $2.00 a day isn’t much but with enough travelers and days, it adds up and it makes a difference to rescue organizations!
Are you a good fit for this adventure?
Traveling Japan is not going to be every traveler’s cup of tea.
If you’ve not experienced international travel, do not despair. This is about having an “adventure-ready and open mindset”. You’ll experience the thrill of Japanese culture shock in a protective, nurturing setting. You will have myself, our travel family, and our local tour leader.
We welcome travelers who:
✅ Respect cultural differences: You understand that infrastructure may differ from home, and embrace this as part of the experience.
✅ You’re okay with walking and public transportation: To get more connected with Japanese lifestyle, we will be getting around Japan by using public transportation and walking. Although we are not participating in any intense physical activity, the amount of walking we’ll do can feel like a lot as Japan has little public seating. Some level of fitness is required. If you do not meet a basic fitness level, you might want to work up to it before you leave for your trip.
✅ We will not have luggage porters: You will be advised to pack light as you will be responsible for your own luggage. We are traveling by public transportation. There is only one situation where we will pack an overnight bag and send our luggage ahead to meet up with us in the next city.
✅ Embrace the unexpected: Travel, like weather, can be unpredictable. We adapt plans as needed, prioritizing safety and maximizing exploration.
✅ Respect local customs: Our hotels offer Western-style bathrooms. However, in transit, you may encounter the iconic squat toilet (fear not, ladies! My Squat Toilet Tips are here to help here and here).
✅ Mindful gastronomy: Vegetarian is not a common concept in Japan. While we will try our best to find substitutes for special diets, Japan is proud of its culinary tradition and favors authenticity. Thus, they may not provide substitutes for certain dishes and options may be blan . Food and broth can be seafood based.
✅ Cultivate a respectful spirit: Treating everyone – staff, workers, and fellow travelers – with respect fosters a joyful, inclusive atmosphere. We embrace diversity and forge friendships through shared experiences. Therefore, we have a strict zero-tolerance policy for harassment or disrespectful behavior.
Who would not be a good fit
This is not for travelers, who needs a “white glove” or 4-5 star experience. This is not a budget backpacking trip either!
We’ll stay in well-chosen, charming boutique hotels and a Japanese capsule hotel. We will enjoy comfortable adventures but there is a healthy dose of walking and public transportation. If you demand personalized service, love to complain, or find fault in every detail, this may not be the perfect fit.
We are spending much time together, so we seek flexible travelers who value collaboration and inclusivity. We’re a family on this journey, and everyone deserves to feel welcome and respected.
Trip price
TBD
How to join this adventure trip
I’d love to have you on this adventure, but I want to ensure you are a good fit for this trip.
Click on the button below and fill out the form to let me know a little about you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these tours for solo travelers only?
The tours are open to soloists, friends and couples. Just let us know if you would like to room together.
How large is this group?
12 pax is my target max.
Do I book my own flights?
Yes. You must book your flights To and From the start and end of the tour. You can come as early or leave as late as you please at your own expense. I like to compare prices between Google Flights and Skyscanner (here are my booking tips).
What are the Covid restrictions in Japan?
For the safety and easy passage of all, all guests on this trip are required to be Covid vaccinated and will be asked to provide proof of vaccination.
What if I cannot travel because of COVID restrictions?
Once the deposit is paid, the trip is non-refundable if there is no cancellation/postponement due to force majeur or the trip not making it’s minimum pax requirements. This is why all guests are required to purchase trip insurance so that in the case of unforeseen circumstances, you are able to recover money.
What type of hotels are we staying in?
All rooms are at minimum 3* boutique on double occupancy. If you’d like a room to yourself, one can be provided with a single supplement fee.
Hotels are subject to change. If that happens, one of equal or better standard will be given. But I still would like to get as many folks on board early so we can secure our hotel spots. You will get full details when we are close to a greenlit trip and upon final payment.
I reserved my spot on your trip. Should I book my flight now?
I’m excited to have you on my tour! But for this adventure to be guaranteed, it needs to meet a minimum of eight people to run. Once that is cleared, you’ll be notified ASAP that it is okay to book your trip.
Can I have my own room?
The tour price is based on double occupancy. I will pair you with another guest of the same sex. If you need a room to yourself, we have a single room supplement option for an extra fee.
If you are traveling with a friend, partner or a family member, let me know upon booking so I can pair you together.
While every effort is made to confirm the accommodation mentioned in the itinerary, we reserve the right to change accommodation to an equal or better standard with no additional cost to you.
Do I need to get trip insurance?
1000% Yes! Without it, you cannot join this adventure. Your trip insurance must cover all the trip dates and you will be asked to show proof and your policy number.
Your insurance policy must cover Japan. If you’re uncertain, then ask your insurance provider.
I recommend you get trip insurance that covers trip/ flight cancellations, delays, medical and emergency coverage, as well as quarantine/cancellation in the case of COVID.
You are welcome to use your preferred travel insurance company if it covers Japan. Most credit card travel insurance policies, tend to be basic, so you will need to call and ask your credit card company about their policy.
You can also use this recommended trip insurance finder tool to do your own policy comparison according to your budget. I use World Nomads for all my international trips which entail adventure activities and theft. Read coverage options for Americans
Will there be downtime on this tour?
Yes. We will be traveling at a relaxed pace. I am purposely not be trying to fill the itinerary, so you have time for your own explorations. But we will have local tour manager and guide for you to consult for leisure recommendations.
Do I need a Japan Tourist Visa?
Can I stay in Japan longer (after the tour or arrive earlier)?
Absolutely. Our local operator can book pre and post trip hotel options and airport transportation, for an extra fee.
Is my deposit non-refundable?
The deposit to reserve your spot is $700.
Your deposit is refundable for the first 30 days. After that, it is non-refundable.
There is nothing I want more than to provide you with a memorable trip experience. The reason tour deposit is nonrefundable is that the moment you book a spot, there are expenses that go into holding your spot: from payment processing fees, securing our rates with local vendors & hotels, administrative fees and more. I’d like to keep running these adventures and make them high-quality and enjoyable experiences for all, so I appreciate your understanding and respect of my strict policies.
*The initial deposit are refundable – minus processing fees– if we do not make our minimum to operate. Please read my T&Cs .
How to make payments?
Payments are split into two installments: a deposit to reserve your spot and a final payment for the balance. You may pay partial payment with your deposit if you wish. Remainder balance is due 120 days before the tour starts. Failure to meet that deadline may see your place on the trip cancelled.
You may pay by bank transfer (no fees) or credit card (fees will apply).
If you need to pay by payment plan, let me know.
Once your final balance payment is received you will receive a detailed itinerary of the trip itinerary and operator.
When will we be notified if the adventure will go through?
I’ll notify all guests approximately 90 days before the tour date, as we’ll need that time allowance for securing our Letters of Invitation.
Special diets
Japan is a meat loving country. Vegan is not a concept here. There may be spots where special diet travelers may feel their options are basic and bland compared to their carnivorous counterparts.
Please let me know of any special dietary restrictions at booking. Our tour manager and local experts will be informed and this will help them find suitable restaurants and/or substitutes when ordering.
How are we making a positive impact through this trip?
We will be partnering with a female run tour business -who co-founded Root Network and strives towards initiatives in responsible tourism, sustainability, and empowerment in women’s and marginalized communities. (More details about our partner in the booking itinerary). Our trip will be female led by our tour manager and female guides where available.
I believe opportunity is empowerment and we may have family members, friends and female guides in training as our local experts, whom under the wing of our tour manager. This will offer us authentic insight as we see travel through their experiences. We will also be visiting a couple of female run businesses that support women’s empowerment.
Additionally, I have a PAWSitive Impact Promise where I will be making a donation in the name of each guest to a street animal rescue organization in Pakistan.
What if I need to cancel my booking?
Please read our Terms & Conditions in full.
What if I signed up for the waitlist? When will I know if I’m in?
By the 60 day mark (before our trip’s start date) we’ll have a good idea of how many spots are available. For waitlist signups, we do not offer payment plans.
As you are being issued a last-minute spot on the trip, you must be able to pay the trip payment in full and you are fully responsible for making sure you get your tourist visa before the start of the trip.
More Trip Questions?
Feel free to contact me via the Contact Form or ask them on the signup form.
* Cannot make these dates but like this itinerary? We can modify this for a private tour or your group.
Email me at trips~at~grrrltraveler.com
A Word about this Adventure from your Host
I’m excited to share this Pakistan group adventure with you! We are going to have an incredible and memorable time and I cannot wait to meet you.
It has been one of my dreams to visit Pakistan and to experience it’s heavenly beauty and delicious food.
Pakistan has been quietly growing in the adventure travel scene. In fact, tourism in Pakistan has risen 317% since 2016, putting it on the cusp as being one of the next big destination. With stunningly pristine nature, epic mountains, and the contagious warmth and hospitality of Pakistani people… I’d like to travel there before the western tourist crowd hits !
This is a bespoke adventure trip through a responsible and sustainable Pakistan tour operator and female-owned business. (More details upon final booking.) Pakistan is a largely male hierarchical society, so I’m thrilled that our adventure will be giving opportunity to empower female businesses and remote communities. We will have a minimal negative impact on the natural environment, while endorsing sustainable programs. We will be guided to be respectful of local customs and supportive of local economies.
This adventure trip will be filmed to the best of my ability for YouTube, so you’ll see behind the scenes of how I work.
Who am I: Between the curious Hawaii girl next door and solo female travel YouTuber, Christine of GRRRLTRAVELER takes you inside the “adventure of solo travel,” food, and culture, one destination at a time. Join me as I show you how to survive travel by going local and creating a memorable and exciting adventure!
Japan Photo credits:
All photos sourced via Pexels, Pixabay and Creative Commons Wiki license
