Japan Tour & Trip Reviews

What to Look For in Japan Reviews

Most trip reviews tend to focus on some or all of these 5 key areas, not all of which may be relevant to you: the tour guide, travel company, service level, country or countries traveled in, and the trip itinerary. Remember, just because you see a 1 star review doesn’t necessarily mean that person disliked the country.

Traveling in Japan can take a bit of adjusting, particularly for western travelers. The cultural nuances take some getting used to, and the language is difficult (not many Japanese people speak english).

Having a local guide in Japan is an extremely helpful way to get to know the culture and history, but it is also invaluable to have someone to ask about what food to order, and how to navigate the transportation. Without this, Japan may end up being a unique adventure but a stressful one.

Japanese food is a divisive topic; people either love it or hate it, or they love ramen and sushi and not much else. The flavors in traditional Japanese cuisine are quite unique - if your palate is not used to them you may feel a bit stuck as a traveler. Having an adventurous and respectful approach to food is key when traveling in Japan.

When you visit Japan, your tour itinerary will almost always include visits to a lot of temples and shrines of great importance to eastern religious history and Buddhism. In Japan, religion is a natural and common topic of conversation.

Some negative reviews for tours in Japan express frustration at the sheer number of Buddhist sites included on the itinerary. While you may experience some temple fatigue it's important to remember that they are an enormous part of Japanese culture and history. Having an open mind as you visit various temples will definitely help you enjoy the experience.

Accommodations in Japan can be very different that what western travelers are used - and most tours in Japan include stays at traditional inns, onsens, and homestays. If you are expecting westernized hotels, these kinds of accommodations may come as a shock. Especially considering the many cultural nuances and expectations when it comes to lifestyle in Japan. You are expected to remove your shoes at all times, and rooms are simple and minimalistic, beds are often comfortable mattresses on the floor.

If you want a professional take on traveling in Japan, see the Travelstride Japan Guide »