- The Great Sites of Japan
- Japanese Alps
- Art and architecture by the inland sea
- In the Heart of Japan
- Capitals and Treasures of Japan
- Tokyo City Break
- Tohoku Gateway
- Essential Japan
- Common questions
- Hokkaido: The Volcanic North
- Hokkaido Version étendue
- Okinawa - Islands and beaches of Japan
- Japan Ski Adventure
- Low cost trip in Japan
- Zen road
- Japanese gardens
- Classical Japan
- Honey Moon
- Japanese spring
- Flavor of Japan
- Hiking paths
- Hiking paths
- Asian Trio
About JapanWhat is the time difference?
In most of Europe (GMT+1), the time difference is 8 hours during our autumn-winter clock and 7 hours in the spring-summer. So when it is noon our time, it is 8 p.m. or 7 p.m. in Japan depending on the season. Is it possible to communicate in English?
Most Japanese learn or have learnt English. However, if you find it difficult to make yourself understood, do not hesitate to communicate with them by signs or by indicating the address where you want to go. You will notice that the Japanese will bend over backwards to help you. What are the formalities for Japan (passport, visa)?
You need just a valid passport. A visa is not necessary. What is the cost of living in Japan?A shopping basket for a traveller in Japan is generally cheaper than that of its counterpart in France. The only 2 exceptions are transport:
Is it easy to travel independently around the country?
Travellers in Japan are struck by the ease of an independent trip in Japan. There is no particular skill but the Japanese will help you find what you are looking for, there are lots of local maps in Roman characters. Can you travel alone as a young girl?
Young girls can travel alone without fear of being harassed or propositioned in public places. What is the best season to visit Japan?The best seasons vary from one region to another. Spring and autumn are particularly sought after because of the 2 large natural events that are the flowering of cherry trees ""hanami"" and the reddening of the maple trees "momiji". Winter is cold except on the islands of Okinawa, and Kyushu (however bathing is not permitted). Kyoto may be disrupted if it snows. This period has also the advantage of being deserted by tourists. Travellers to Japan can visit the sites in peace.
Summer can be extremely hot and humid in Kyoto but the surrounding mountains and the north of Japan are pleasant to visit because of their relatively cool temperatures. Can the country be visited safely with children?
Japan is the kingdom of children: safety, theme parks, accommodating attitude of people. Can I use my mobile phone over there?
The latest generation phones can be used in Japan but communications are extremely expensive. If you select a mode of travel which will require you to use a mobile phone a lot, it is better to rent one upon your arrival at the airport. Do I need an electrical adapter?
An electrical transformer is less and less necessary as most electronic devices work equally well in either 110 V or 220 V. On the other hand, you will need an adapter because European plugs are not compatible with Japanese sockets. These adapters can be bought in airports in Japan and cost between 10 and 15 euros. We are going to see friends over there, can we import anything?
Customs controls in Japan are much stricter than in France or in Europe. But if you don't bring narcotic drugs or other suspicious products, you shouldn't have any problems. About Japan ExperienceWhat means of payment are accepted?
Our trips can be paid for by cheque, bank card (apart from American Express), bank transfer or in cash at our offices. Is Japan Experience a reliable agency?
Japan Experience was created 30 years ago and sends more than 10,000 travellers away to Japan each year. The number one specialist agency, "Voyageurs au Japon" changed name in 2011 to become "Vivre le Japon", in English "Japan Experience", and reflect the expectations of new travellers. Is it possible to pay in instalments?
In exceptional cases, it is possible to pay in instalments, depending on the tours chosen and the departure dates. Do not hesitate to consult us. Where can I meet a specialist adviser on Japan?
Our office is open every day from 9.30 a.m. to 6.30 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. If you have any specific questions, it is preferable to make an appointment. Our most suitable advisor to answer your question will then make themselves available. How long does it take to get a quotation?
Between 2 and 5 days depending on the season and the complexity of the trip. Can I have a wedding list?
A wedding list can be provided. Our "Honeymoon", programme launched 2 years ago, has been a great success with our customers. About solo tours |
The Tokaido Route Tour
Discover one of our most famous small group tour: the Tokaido Route Tour.