Essential Japan - Tokyo, Mount Fuji and Kyoto

We've graded this tour as full-on. Expect a packed itinerary that makes the most of our time in Japan with segments of free time in Tokyo and Kyoto.

Please note, the view of Mount Fuji is dependent on the weather. Winter (December to February) generally brings the most reliable conditions. Autumn (late October to December) is good for photography thanks to the changing foliage, as is spring, when you can see the famous blossoms, too. The summer months (June to August) are generally the poorest for visibility due to the humidity, clouds and haze.

From bullet train to local buses, we use public transport on most days of this tour. Not only does this help to curb our carbon footprint, but it also brings us closer to local life and lets us soak in the landscapes as we go.

As we explore Japan, we'll be getting our step count in. Whether we're exploring a city on a walking tour, visiting a local temple or simply getting from the metro or train station to our next hotel, we'll spend a lot of time walking and on our feet - comfortable shoes are a must. Note that in train stations, you'll need to walk up and down plenty of flights of stairs as escalators and lifts are often not available.

Accommodation has been chosen based on comfort and location - we'll generally be staying within walking distance of a metro or train station.

Japanese hotels have strict rules regarding check-in, and all customers are required to wait until 3pm for room access. You'll be able to store your luggage while waiting, but if you require an early check-in, then you should request this at the time of booking. We can't guarantee this will be possible, and depending on availability, an extra fee may be charged.

As is the Japanese way, hotel rooms are small but functional. While we stay in comfortable hotels throughout, you might not always have the space you're used to, and it's a good idea to pack light.

We book twin rooms throughout. Often, the beds can be pushed together, but if a double bed is important to you, we suggest that you request this at the time of booking. Please note that double beds in Japan are somewhat smaller than Western doubles, and the room itself will be smaller - more like a single room. Additionally, we can't guarantee double rooms will always be available.

We recommend packing light for this trip. Most hotels have self-service laundry machines, so you can wash and dry your clothes as needed. Japan is also a great destination for clothes shopping.

On one occasion, we forward our luggage to the next big city, and you'll need to use a day bag for your essentials for that day and the next. We won't have access to our luggage at all times. Please refer to the Trip Information, Budgeting and packing, and Luggage on tour sections for more information.

While locals are very friendly and eager to help, English isn't widely spoken in Japan. It's a good idea to stay connected using an eSIM or mobile WiFi SIM card so you can access a translation app - not only will this help you get around the cities, but it'll also help you fully immerse yourself in the local life. This is highly recommended to improve your holiday experience.

Japanese food is delicious and is a highlight for many on their trip to Japan. That being said, it's very different from Western cuisine, and you'll get the most out of it if you approach mealtimes with an open mind.

Many Japanese dishes are cooked in a fish-base broth. Choice for vegetarians is limited and vegans even more so.

It can also be difficult to cater for those with severe allergies. If you have an allergy, you must inform us at the time of booking. Even when informed in advance, we can't guarantee a 100% allergy-free setting as there can always be some cross-contamination in kitchens or at buffet settings in hotels/restaurants. Many restaurants in Japan are unfamiliar with some allergies in Europe/North America/Australia/NZ and are reluctant or unable to make provisions for serious cross-contact allergy risk.

Tattoos are still associated with the Yukuza gangs in Japan, and as a result many public bathing facilities or onsen have strict rules. Tattoos may need to be covered.

Getting a top-up or replacement prescription for over the counter medication is very difficult in Japan and requires a medical appointment. Even then, certain medications may have restricted use in Japan and it's not guaranteed you'll get the same prescription as back home. For this reason, please pack any essential medication in your hand luggage.

Japan is a bucket list destination and so can be crowded and overwhelming at times, particularly in the big cities like Tokyo. If you'd rather beat the crowds, it's worth travelling in the off-season.