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Japan Private Tours & Local Tour Guides
Plan a Trip to Japan with Local Tour Guides, and Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and More.
Popular Japan Tour Guides
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Daizaburo N.
Hi ! I am Daizaburo. Please call me Dai-chan (chan is a suffix expressing friendliness). I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter living in Shimane (western part). I was born and brought up in Shimane and worked as a teacher of English in high school for more than 30 years. I have been interested in tour guides for a long time. I visited many places of interests throughout Japan and above all I was charmed with Tokyo, Hokkaido and Okinawa. I am flexible about destinations and can arrange the tour according to your request. I will try hard to make your stay in Japan very special and memorable. Let's explore our beautiful and exciting country together. I'm very friendly and kind, too. For any concerns, please just contact me. I am here to help you! See you soon !
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Fujiko M.
Hello! My name is Fujiko Maeda. I'm a national-licensed tour guide. I was born in Sado Island, off the coast of Niigata Prefecture. I once worked in tourism industry for about 10 years when I lived in Tokyo. Now I'm a persimmon farmer but when time permits I'm happy to guide you here in Sado mainly but also other places, too. We have a lot to offer like beautiful nature, historical sites, local specialties, traditional performing arts, festivals, islanders smiles and so on. If you'd like to know real Japanese lifestyle, please visit Sado. I'm sure you'll be satisfied. Let's explore Sado or other wonderful and beautiful places with me! Also, if you have any questions about Sado or Japan as a whole, please don't hesitate to email me.
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Rina K.
Welcome to Osaka! My name is Rina, and I’m happy to guide you through my hometown. My tours are designed for travelers who want to experience Japan at a slower pace, savoring local neighborhoods, cafés, and everyday culture. Since July 2025, I’ve guided guests from many countries. I enjoy hearing about their lives and cultures, and I’m always glad to see their reactions to Japan. Everyday details here—food, traditions, or even train announcements—often feel new and exciting to visitors, and sharing those discoveries together is very rewarding. Osaka is often called the “city of kuidaore,” where food is central to life. Local specialties include takoyaki, kushikatsu, and okonomiyaki, but you’ll also find Osaka’s famous spice curry, countless bakeries, and cozy udon shops. Landmarks such as Osaka Castle, the Glico neon sign, and Tsutenkaku Tower are iconic, yet the city—sometimes referred to as the “city of rivers”—also invites you to stroll along the waterways and discover retro architecture. Beyond the major sights, let’s dive deeper into Osaka’s everyday culture and hidden corners. Osaka is also the ideal base for exploring Kansai. In one day, you can visit Kyoto’s temples, Nara’s deer, Kobe’s harbor, or Shiga’s lakeside scenery. With more time, you can even reach Hiroshima’s Itsukushima Shrine or enjoy the food culture of Fukuoka. Join me for a relaxed journey through Osaka. Together, we’ll enjoy its flavors, sights, and stories at a comfortable pace. I look forward to welcoming you to Osaka!
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Rieko S.
Hello! I am Rieko, a licensed tour guide with a deep passion for sharing the wonders of Gunma. Located in the center of the main island of Japan, Gunma has been a place where travelers from various parts of Japan, like Tokyo, Niigata, and Nagano, come and go. Some would relax in a hot spring, others would be encouraged by beautiful scenery. Gunma has helped them rejuvenate and keep traveling with energy. Drawing from my experience as a local tour guide and knowledge of Japanese culture, history, and traditions, I offer you a seamless and immersive journey. Embark on an adventure with me and discover the untold stories, hidden treasures, and vibrant local communities that make Gunma a truly remarkable destination. I hope to see you soon!
New Japan Tour Guides
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Aya M.
Hi, I’m Aya! A local guide from Osaka, born and raised in a traditional Japanese farmhouse. My family has been growing Mitsuba(japanese traditional vegetable)and seasonal vegetables for generations, and I love sharing the authentic countryside lifestyle with guests from around the world. After studying and working in Australia, I realized how deeply travelers value real connection with local people. That inspired me to create experiences where visitors can feel everyday Japan — not just observe it. In my tours, I introduce guests to the heart of Japanese culture: • Hands-on farm experiences at my family’s fields • Calligraphy in our traditional Japanese home • Tea time on the engawa, surrounded by nature One of the things I cherish most is omotenashi —Japan’s unique spirit of hospitality that values sincerity, care, and putting others before oneself. Through my experiences, I hope to share this quiet richness of Japanese life: the warmth, the thoughtfulness, and the deep sense of connection that locals naturally offer. My style is warm, welcoming, and relaxed. I guide at your pace, answer any questions, and make sure you feel comfortable — like visiting a friend’s home in the countryside. If you’re looking for genuine culture, meaningful moments, and a true local connection, I’d be honored to welcome you. Feel free to message me anytime.
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Victoria N.
My name is Victoria, and I’ve been living on Okinawa for 10 years. Would you like to visit non-touristy places known only to locals? I’ll be happy to show them to you! For more than six years, I’ve been guiding tours and sharing the beauty and atmosphere of this unique island with visitors. I love Japan — its culture, history, and anime — and I’m always excited to share not just facts, but the soul of this place. On my tours, you will see not only the famous landmarks, but also hidden, fascinating corners of the island that few people know about. With me, you will experience the real Okinawa: taste local cuisine, hear legends, learn traditions, and glimpse the everyday life of the islanders. I speak both English and Japanese, so I can help you feel confident and comfortable in any situation. If you want not just a tour, but a living journey with someone who is truly in love with Japan, I’ll be happy to guide you!
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Kazuma Y.
Hi, I'm your local guide based in Nara,Kyoto,and Osaka. I create tours that feel like exploring the city with a friend — warm, easy, and full of real local experiences. My goal is to help you discover the food, culture, and hidden stories of Japan in a fun and relaxed way. Looking forward to sharing an unforgettable time with you!
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Moto E.
I live in Yamanashi Prefecture in Japan. I am a certified National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter in English. I acquired my certificate in February 2017. I can guide in the areas of Yamanashi, Nagano, and the Greater Tokyo Area and more depending on your interests. Yamanashi is located at the base of Mount Fuji, so it is easy to visit there. Great views of Mount Fuji and strolling in the nostalgic areas of an old town are available. And also, the snow monkey park is not very far. I will offer customized-private tours designed around your interests, and I will adapt the tours and make them flexible to fit your needs. Each tour will be enjoyable and memorable. However, the hardest part will be choosing which place and what you would like to explore. I am available for consultation should you need it. I was educated in Japan and the USA. I have a Ph.D. in Biology and I did my post-doc career in the US. I worked in the R&D and Quality Control departments in cosmetics companies and I was a laboratory manager for a vegetable seeds company in Japan. I was a research scientist in New Zealand for a short time. I planned the industry tours for foreign specialists and guided them to the corresponding enterprises. I grew Oriental vegetables for commercial purposes for a company in the UK. I was a rice cultivation assistant in Africa as a member of the Japanese Peace Corps. I visited Iran, Iraq, and Syria as a member of a goodwill mission organized by the government. After retirement, I have been a tour guide. I accompany guests on offshore trips from cruise ships. I can arrange walking tours in the Aogihara Forest area including lava caves like the Ice Cave and Wind Cave, and also strolling tours in the nostalgic town of Yamanashi. I have two websites guiding about Yamanashi and Mount Fuji areas.
Popular Japan Private Tours
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Niigata City one day tour of your choices
Located on the Japan sea side of mainland Honshu, about 2 hours bullet train ride from Tokyo, Niigata city has been flourished as one of the major port towns for centuries. Along with this historical background, Niigata city is now well known for delicious "koshihikari" rice, varieties of tasty sake, fresh products from both land and sea. In this tour, you can choose 3 or 4 places to visit for 7-hour sightseeing tour. We mainly use public transportation networks like Niigata city loopline bus service ( one-day ticket JPY 500 ) and taxi if necessary. The places of choices are as follows: 1. Niigata City Aquarium "Marinepia Nihonkai" Displaying both marine and fresh water fish in the region and aquatic animals. Dolphin shows are performed daily. JPY 1500 Closed from Dec.29-Jan.1, Mar.3,4 2. Pia Bandai Fish and vegatable market with restaurants popular for locals and tourists. 3. "Imayotsukasa" sake brewery There is a guided tour and you can sample tasty sake. 4. The Niigata Saito Villa Built about 100 years ago, this gorgeous villa and Japanese style garden attracts visitors all year round. JPY 300 Closed on Mondays, from Dec.28-Jan.3 5. Minatopia with Former Niigata Customs House There are also Former Daishi Bank building and Niigata City History Museum by the Shinano River. 6. Former Ozawa Family Residence Authentic machiya-style house with beautiful garden from the Meiji Period. JPY 200 Closed on Mondays, from Dec.28-Jan.3 7. Honcho Market Located on the bustling Furumachi ( old town ) district, vendors sell all kinds of food with reasonable prices. * vendors are less on Sundays 8. Strolling Furumachi district for 1 hour Furumachi was once known as geigi (geisha) district like Kyoto and there are many restaurants, temples, old and new buildings in this area. * you can combine this choice with the Saito Villa or/and the Ozawa Residence (both in Furumachi district). Please choose places you'd like to visit and email me. Let's have fun in Niigata city!
Niigata City one day tour of your choices
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Highlights of Osaka-Dotonbori, Shinsekai, Umeda and Osaka Castle
Explore the best of Osaka in just one day! From the historic Osaka Castle to the retro charm of Shinsekai, taste local street food by Tsutenkaku Tower, and enjoy sweeping city views in Umeda. Feel the energy, savor the flavors, and experience Osaka your way.
Highlights of Osaka-Dotonbori, Shinsekai, Umeda and Osaka Castle
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Haruna Shrine and Ikaho Walking Tour
With its well-proportioned and beautiful appearance, Mount Haruna, one of the representative mountains in Gunma, is known as "Haruna Fuji". This tour visits two major tourist spots located on the hillside of Mount Haruna: Ikaho Hot Spring and Haruna Shrine.
Haruna Shrine and Ikaho Walking Tour
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Kanazawa Essentials: A Full-Day Journey via the Loop Bus
Explore Kanazawa's history and culture on this private, 7-hour loop bus tour. Ideal for first-time visitors, the tour covers Omicho Market, the Nagamachi Samurai District, the stunning Kenroku-en Garden, and the charming Higashichaya-gai (Tea House Street). The itinerary is completely customizable.
Kanazawa Essentials: A Full-Day Journey via the Loop Bus
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New Japan Private Tours
Discover Kanazawa Through a Fun Quiz Tour
Explore Kanazawa with fun quiz questions that turn sightseeing into an interactive cultural experience. Learn the stories, traditions, and hidden details behind the city’s history and daily life as you play along.
Discover Kanazawa Through a Fun Quiz Tour
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Kanazawa Heritage Highlights – Half-Day Tour with a Local Guide
This half-day walking tour introduces Kanazawa through its history, culture, and local atmosphere. You will visit well-known sights such as Kenrokuen Garden, Kanazawa Castle, traditional geisha districts, Omicho Market for local food, and the Nagamachi Samurai District. Along the way, you will learn cultural details and local stories often missed by visitors. With a flexible itinerary, the tour offers a deeper and more personal way to experience Kanazawa beyond standard sightseeing.
Kanazawa Heritage Highlights – Half-Day Tour with a Local Guide
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Ice Cave, Wind Cave and a long walk in Aokigahara Forest
Explore two lava caves, Narusawa Hyoketsu (Ice Cave) and Fugaku Fuketsu (Wind Cave), and enjoy walking on the Tokai Nature Trail in Aokigahara Forest located at the foot of Mount Fuji. You can experience unusual sights in the lava caves and refresh yourself in the inspiring woodland.
Ice Cave, Wind Cave and a long walk in Aokigahara Forest
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Ice Cave, Wind Cave, Aokigahara Forest and Great views of Mount Fuji
Explore two lave caves, the ice cave and the wind cave, and take a comfortable walk between them through the Tokai Nature Trail in Aokigahara Forest. Continuing to Koyodai hill and have a magnificent view of Mount Fuji and Aokigahara Jukai (the sea of trees) from Koyodai Resthouse Observatory. (To Sankodai Lookout is optional)
Ice Cave, Wind Cave, Aokigahara Forest and Great views of Mount Fuji
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Popular Japan Private Cars
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Matsue Castle & Izumo Grand Shrine (Matsue City & Izumo City)
This tour helps you make the most of your visit to Shimane. I will plan your tour based on your requests and show you an itinerary in advance, so you will not miss the places you want to go in Shimane. Lunch will also arranged according to your request.
Matsue Castle & Izumo Grand Shrine (Matsue City & Izumo City)
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Haruna Shrine and "Initial D" related places in Shibukawa
A day trip that travels around Haruna Shrine, Lake Haruna, and "Initial D" (manga)- related places in Shibukawa. This tour also stops at Ikaho Onsen, a renowned hot spring town. *Please note: This tour is suspended from January to mid-March due to winter road conditions and for customer safety.
Haruna Shrine and "Initial D" related places in Shibukawa
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The Gokayama Grand Tour: UNESCO Sites, Iwana Delights & Washi Art
A scenic day trip in a convenient car from Toyama Station to Gokayama Ainokura, a UNESCO World Heritage site, focusing on cultural immersion and local cuisine. The trip involves exploring a traditional Japanese village, savoring local dishes, and engaging in a hands-on paper-making experience.
The Gokayama Grand Tour: UNESCO Sites, Iwana Delights & Washi Art
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Kochi Highlights Tour with Licensed Guide and Private Car Pick-Up
Explore Kochi’s top highlights in one day with a local licensed guide! Visit Kochi Castle, Chikurinji Temple, and Okawasuji Samurai Residence or Makino Botanical Garden, and enjoy local food at Hirome Market. The tour is flexible—we can visit other spots based on your interests. All photos were taken by me, and I’m happy to take photos of you during the tour and share them afterward as a free souvenir. Perfect for first-time visitors who want a personalized and memorable experience in Kochi.
Kochi Highlights Tour with Licensed Guide and Private Car Pick-Up
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Japan Tour Reviews
Justine L.
“Kota-san, friendly and excellent with the kids! ”
Very pleasant experience dealing with Kota. He is responsive & accommodating. Kids were quick to warm to him. His English is good & he is more than capable translating & explaining things in depth. All in all, 10/10.
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Kota A.
Dear Justin, Thank you so much for the kind and warm review. I was very happy to see the children enjoying themselves :) Even though it was a short time, it was a wonderful experience for me as well. Thank you! I look forward to meeting you again someday. Kody
Yuka M.
“Flexible and attentive”
Kazumi provided very detailed and insightful explanations about history. Even though time was limited, she were very flexible and made every effort to accommodate our request. We truly appreciated her professionalism and warm support.
Holly F.
“WE HAD A BLAST!”
Shusaku was a great tour guide! He catered our tour to places we wanted to see and do. Very friendly and funny :) He took lots of great photos for us too. HIGHLY RECOMMEND HIM!
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Shusaku M.
Thank you very much for taking the time to write such a wonderful review. I’m truly happy to hear that you enjoyed the tour. Please do come back to Japan again, and I hope you enjoy the rest of your time here. Arigatou Gozaimasu!!!!!
Japan Private Tours & Local Tour Guides
Uncover Japan’s secrets and gain travel knowledge with a local private tour guide. Unlock hidden gems, cultural immersion, and an unforgettable journey.
With a tour guide, you can get to the good stuff, like the ethereal Tottori Sand Dunes and quaint Kinosaki Onsen. From enjoying bespoke traditional ryokans, to navigating the busy streets of Osaka, a tailored journey through Japan’s wonders only gets better with a local expert leading the way.
Beyond the big ticket destinations like Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka, getting a personalized itinerary transforms a simple tour into lifelong memories. Customized by a local guide, your itinerary can feature lesser known sites like the Shikisai-no-Oka flower fields, where stunning panoramic views of colorful flowers await.
Japan Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth getting a tour guide in Japan?
Yes. Local private tour guides in Japan provide comfort, convenience, information, and organization, especially in a culturally and geographically diverse country.
A Japan tour guide enhances your trip by;
- Getting rid of the language barrier. Less than 30% of Japan’s population speaks English. Touring the country with a multilingual guide removes awkward interactions and creates a sense of comfort and ease.
- Saving your time. Once you've picked your destinations, your guide organizes the logistics, focusing on efficiency by booking venues, securing tickets, and making any necessary reservations, leaving you to relax and spend time seeing the Land of the Rising Sun.
- Providing a rich knowledge pool. Walking around the country with a guide ingrained in local culture, history, and knowledge is a treasure that gives you value for your money. You might even encounter a few hidden gems.
Still undecided? This article might interest you: Hiring A Guide In Japan: Pros & Cons.
Yes. Local private tour guides in Japan provide comfort, convenience, information, and organization, especially in a culturally and geographically diverse country.
A Japan tour guide enhances your trip by;
- Getting rid of the language barrier. Less than 30% of Japan’s population speaks English. Touring the country with a multilingual guide removes awkward interactions and creates a sense of comfort and ease.
- Saving your time. Once you've picked your destinations, your guide organizes the logistics, focusing on efficiency by booking venues, securing tickets, and making any necessary reservations, leaving you to relax and spend time seeing the Land of the Rising Sun.
- Providing a rich knowledge pool. Walking around the country with a guide ingrained in local culture, history, and knowledge is a treasure that gives you value for your money. You might even encounter a few hidden gems.
Still undecided? This article might interest you: Hiring A Guide In Japan: Pros & Cons.
What month is best to see Japan?
March to May and September to November are the best times to visit Japan because the weather is warm but not blazing and cool but not freezing.
Of course, March to May is Sakura season, so tourism is high during this time. To escape the crowds, try traveling from December to February. June to August is hot and moist, and May to June is rainy.
Need a full weather breakdown? Check out our Japan Tourism Statistics 2023.
March to May and September to November are the best times to visit Japan because the weather is warm but not blazing and cool but not freezing.
Of course, March to May is Sakura season, so tourism is high during this time. To escape the crowds, try traveling from December to February. June to August is hot and moist, and May to June is rainy.
Need a full weather breakdown? Check out our Japan Tourism Statistics 2023.
How much does a private tour of Japan cost?
Depending on your destination, Japan tour guides can be hired from 98 USD per group for a Kyoto Highlights Tour to upwards of 397 USD per group for a Customized Tokyo Experience. GoWithGuide's prices vary according to perks, venues, experiences, and included services. Head to the Japan Private Tours page to see our range of private tour costs.
Depending on your destination, Japan tour guides can be hired from 98 USD per group for a Kyoto Highlights Tour to upwards of 397 USD per group for a Customized Tokyo Experience. GoWithGuide's prices vary according to perks, venues, experiences, and included services. Head to the Japan Private Tours page to see our range of private tour costs.
Where should I go for the first time in Japan?
Tokyo is the number one choice for first-time travelers to Japan. It combines the best elements from the 4 major islands (Honshu, Hokkaido, Shikoku, and Kyushu) into one melting pot of culture and creativity. With so much variety, you'll find The Meiji Shrine, Shinjuku Gyoen Garden, Ginza Shopping District, and Yomiuriland all in one city.
Tokyo also serves as a base for those who want to travel to nearby destinations like;
- Osaka (2 hrs 22 min via Bullet Train)
- Kyoto (2 hrs 8 min via Bullet Train)
- Fuji Five Lakes ( 2 hrs 5 min via train)
Helpful Article: 5 Relaxing Day Trips From Tokyo You Have To Try
Tokyo is the number one choice for first-time travelers to Japan. It combines the best elements from the 4 major islands (Honshu, Hokkaido, Shikoku, and Kyushu) into one melting pot of culture and creativity. With so much variety, you'll find The Meiji Shrine, Shinjuku Gyoen Garden, Ginza Shopping District, and Yomiuriland all in one city.
Tokyo also serves as a base for those who want to travel to nearby destinations like;
- Osaka (2 hrs 22 min via Bullet Train)
- Kyoto (2 hrs 8 min via Bullet Train)
- Fuji Five Lakes ( 2 hrs 5 min via train)
Helpful Article: 5 Relaxing Day Trips From Tokyo You Have To Try
What I wish I knew before going to Japan?
- English is a bigger barrier than expected, especially if you plan on traveling to rural areas. A guide is a great way to practice small phrases and understand pronunciation.
- A JR (Japan Rail) pass comes in handy, so get one at the airport. Japan's public transport system is one of the best in the world, and a preloaded card will cut so much time while keeping you connected to the vast rail grid.
- The vending machines are as iconic as you think they are. Try as many as you possibly can.
- Walking while eating/drinking is rude. It also promotes littering, so take the time to pause and eat.
- English is a bigger barrier than expected, especially if you plan on traveling to rural areas. A guide is a great way to practice small phrases and understand pronunciation.
- A JR (Japan Rail) pass comes in handy, so get one at the airport. Japan's public transport system is one of the best in the world, and a preloaded card will cut so much time while keeping you connected to the vast rail grid.
- The vending machines are as iconic as you think they are. Try as many as you possibly can.
- Walking while eating/drinking is rude. It also promotes littering, so take the time to pause and eat.
What you should and shouldn't do in Japan?
- You should - Book accommodation months in advance. The earlier, the better, especially if you're headed to Japan during the peak season of March to May or September to November.
- You shouldn’t - Litter. EVER. Japan prides itself on recycling and keeping its streets clean. Littering is one of the worst things you can do. Keep your trash on you until you find a trash can.
- You should - Keep cash on hand. Though there are cashless facilities, cash is still king, especially in smaller specialty shops and restaurants.
- You shouldn’t - Stick to big cities. There's more to Japan than the bustling streets of Shinjuku or the savory foods of Osaka. Remote tours along the Japanese countryside are just as magical, so talk to your tour guide about picking a great spot.
- You should - learn some Japanese phrases like;
- Sumimasen - Excuse me
- Arigatou Gozaimasu - Thank you
- Konnichiwa - Hello
Check out our Ultimate Guide to Japan Tourism Statistics for a full breakdown of dos & don'ts, potential destinations, travel trends, weather statistics, and much more.
- You should - Book accommodation months in advance. The earlier, the better, especially if you're headed to Japan during the peak season of March to May or September to November.
- You shouldn’t - Litter. EVER. Japan prides itself on recycling and keeping its streets clean. Littering is one of the worst things you can do. Keep your trash on you until you find a trash can.
- You should - Keep cash on hand. Though there are cashless facilities, cash is still king, especially in smaller specialty shops and restaurants.
- You shouldn’t - Stick to big cities. There's more to Japan than the bustling streets of Shinjuku or the savory foods of Osaka. Remote tours along the Japanese countryside are just as magical, so talk to your tour guide about picking a great spot.
- You should - learn some Japanese phrases like;
- Sumimasen - Excuse me
- Arigatou Gozaimasu - Thank you
- Konnichiwa - Hello
Check out our Ultimate Guide to Japan Tourism Statistics for a full breakdown of dos & don'ts, potential destinations, travel trends, weather statistics, and much more.
Latest Japan Articles
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