If you are visiting Japan for the first time, you know it can be hard to navigate around if you don’t know any Japanese. That’s why it’s much easier for some to hire tour guides. In this post, we will answer some of your questions about Japan guided tours and let you in on some insider secrets to help you make your trip to Japan even more memorable.
Japan is one of the most visited countries in the world. As of 2019, 31.88 million international tourists came to visit for leisure travel. And in 2017, the Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report placed Japan in 4th out of 141 countries for its tourist-friendliness, taking into account factors like health and hygiene, safety and security, cultural resources, and business travel.
Whether you are visiting Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, or anywhere you like, you will be blown away by Japan’s stunning tourist spots, food landscape, and friendly people—no matter what season.
If you wondering whether to get guided tours in Japan or not, here are some of your questions answered:
Are Japan guided tours worth it?
Yes, guided tours in Japan are worth every penny. As mentioned, the language barrier can be a huge problem if you choose not to get a guide. Most tour guides in Japan speak English and so they can help you communicate in a language that both you and your guide can understand.
Hiring guided tours also means you are safe and comfortable throughout the experience, as these tour guides are trained to go out of their way to give you only the best experience while in Japan. If you are looking for tip-based guided tours, be sure to check out Tokyo Localized’s Free Walking Tours.
Also Read: Why Hire Guided Tours in Japan
Is it possible to walk around Tokyo?
Yes, it’s possible to walk around Tokyo. It is a very walkable city as most of its roads and pathways are paved. For example, central Tokyo is pretty explorable on foot. For example, you can walk from Shinjuku to Shibuya without hiccups. It might take a long time, but it’s doable. Just wear a comfortable pair of shoes, though.
Even when just walking around, you will find definitely find the most authentic and most interesting parts of Tokyo. But of course, there are some parts of Tokyo that are not as walkable as central Tokyo.
Also Read: Is Tokyo a Walkable City?
Do you need a tour guide for Tokyo?
A tour guide in Tokyo is not necessary. But having a guide with you provides more benefits to you and your trip. A tour guide can provide you with a deeper explanation of things about the city/prefecture.
In addition, Tokyo can be a bit complex for new visitors. Having a tour guide would definitely make things so much easier.
Also Read: Why Hire a Tour Guide in Tokyo
How much does a guided tour of Japan cost?
Guided tours in Japan cost anywhere between 4,000-7,000 JPY (~35-50 USD), depending on the tour. However, private tours tend to be more costly, while special tours (like geisha tours) tend to be much more expensive.
There are tip-based guided tours in Japan where that will bring you to the most popular places in an area. For similar tip-based guided tours, check out Tokyo Localized’s free walking tours in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka.
Also Read: Best Guided Tours in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka
What is the best month to go to Japan?
The best months to go to Japan are between March and May and between September and November. These are warm and dry months.
If you are looking to watch out for the cherry blossom season in Japan, mid-March to April first week is the best time. Cherry blossoms fade too fast, so watch out for cherry blossom forecast as early as January or February.
Also Read: Best Time to Visit Japan
How many days is ideal to visit Japan?
A minimum of 14 days is ideal to visit Japan. If you are a first-timer, 14 days might not be enough to discover the best of Japan, but it will do if you are targeting Tokyo and Keihanshin, the metro area of the Kansai Region, which is composed of Kyoto, Osaka, and Kobe.
If you wondering how many days to spend, we recommend spending 3 days in Tokyo, 3 days in Kyoto, 1 day in Osaka, and 1 day in Hiroshima.
Also Read: How Many Days Is Ideal to Visit Japan?
How many days in Tokyo is enough?
For new visitors, 3-5 days are enough to see Tokyo’s most popular tourist spots. But that would be full of panicking and cramming. Ideally, 14 days should be enough to experience the best of Tokyo, with room to breathe and relax as well. Even if you decide to spend more than 14 days in Tokyo, you won’t get bored as there is so much you can do and so many sights to see.
Also Read: Sample 3-Day Tokyo Itinerary
Is it ok to eat and walk in Japan?
Eating and walking in Japan is not bad at all. There’s also no cultural relevance that bans eating while walking. As long as you are following TPO guidelines, you should be good.
Also Read: 4 Unspoken Rules to Observe in Japan
Can you go to Japan as a tourist without knowing Japanese?
Of course! There are no laws or regulations that prohibit international tourists from visiting Japan if they don’t know Japanese. All tourists are welcome in Japan, no matter their age, race, gender, religion, disability, etc.
Also Read: Basic Japanese Words You Should Learn
