All Japan Tours & Excursions in 2026 - page 454

I had a fantastic group! There were four people total, but you will probably have more people if you book on a weekend! We went to four restaurants total. We sat in two, and tasted food outside from two other restaurants. The guide, Han, was amazing, very friendly, and spoke fluent English. The group I was with was very kind and friendly. I would definitely recommend it! Even if you go by yourself, if is a wonderful experience.

From Kyoto/Osaka: Kyoto Must-See Spots & Nara Park One-Day Tour Our memorable journey began at the Kyoto Bus Terminal opposite Kyoto Station, where we met our guide, Frederick, originally from China. To say that Frederick is an excellent guide would be an understatement. Frederick and guided tours seem to have been destined for one another. Armed with an encyclopedic knowledge of Japanese history, culture, and everyday life, coupled with an infectious sense of humour and remarkable storytelling ability, he kept the entire group engaged from start to finish. His gift of gab is truly extraordinary, transforming a simple bus ride into a rolling masterclass on Japan. Our first stop was Nara Park, one of Japan's most iconic attractions. Home to over a thousand free-roaming sika deer, considered sacred messengers of the gods in the Shinto tradition, the park offers a unique opportunity to interact with these gentle creatures. Feeding the deer with special deer crackers was pure delight. The deer have even learned to bow politely before receiving treats—a charming display of Japanese manners that appears to have rubbed off on the local wildlife! Against the backdrop of ancient temples, sprawling greenery, and centuries of history, Nara Park was both enchanting and unforgettable. From Nara, we proceeded to the magnificent Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a veritable feast for the eyes and a balm for the soul. Walking through towering bamboo stalks that sway gently in the breeze creates an almost otherworldly experience. The filtered sunlight, the rustling leaves, and the emerald-green corridors make one feel transported into a living painting. Arashiyama is not merely a bamboo forest; it is an immersive sensory experience. Frederick shared fascinating facts about bamboo's role in Japanese culture and how this iconic grove has become one of Kyoto's most photographed locations. Next came the spectacular Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous worldwide for its seemingly endless tunnels of vermilion-red torii gates. Dedicated to Inari, the Shinto deity of rice, prosperity, and business success, the shrine features thousands of gates donated by individuals and corporations over many decades. Walking through these vibrant corridors winding up Mount Inari is a mesmerising experience. Every turn reveals another cascade of torii gates stretching into the distance, creating one of Japan's most instantly recognisable and photogenic landscapes. The shrine's history spans more than 1,300 years, adding a profound sense of continuity between Japan's past and present. Throughout the trip, Frederick peppered his commentary with fascinating nuggets of information, amusing anecdotes, and cultural insights. Whether explaining the origins of Shinto traditions, Japanese work culture, local customs, or hidden details that most visitors would miss, he delivered every fact with impeccable timing and humour. Even the bus rides between destinations became part of the entertainment. This tour offered a perfect blend of nature, history, culture, spirituality, and fun. The deer of Nara stole our hearts, the bamboo groves of Arashiyama captivated our senses, and the endless torii gates of Fushimi Inari inspired awe. Combined with Frederick's outstanding guidance, the day was not merely a sightseeing excursion—it was a rich and thoroughly enjoyable immersion into the soul of Japan. Highly recommended for anyone wishing to experience some of the finest treasures that Kyoto and Nara have to offer in a single unforgettable day.

Ali was an absolutely wonderful driver and guide- friendly, humorous, and knowledgeable. He listened and offered realistic suggestions on what we could see/accomplish. We were a large group (2 families, 4 kids) - he was very sweet and patient with our kids, even when some were testing limits. Highly recommend him and this tour! Thank you Ali!