Our Tours & Booking Process
1. What makes your tours different from other travel agencies? We are not a standard travel agency; we are Japan travel architects. Our tours are designed specifically for the discerning Swiss traveler. We focus on creating authentic, immersive experiences that go beyond the typical tourist trails. Our founder, Giorgio Fragiacomo, combines his deep knowledge of Japanese culture with an understanding of European service expectations to create seamless, unique, and unforgettable journeys.
2. What is the process for booking a tour? Our process is personal and collaborative:
- Initial Consultation: We start with a conversation to understand your travel style, interests, and desired dates.
- Custom Itinerary Proposal: We design a preliminary itinerary and a transparent price quote tailored to you.
- Refinement: We work with you to refine the itinerary until it’s perfect.
- Booking & Confirmation: Once you approve the plan, we handle all the bookings and provide you with a complete travel package.
3. Are your tours private or in groups? We specialize in private, tailor-made tours for individuals, couples, families, and small private groups. This ensures maximum flexibility and a personalized experience. We do not offer large, fixed-departure group tours.
4. What is included in the price of a tour? Each tour is different, but a typical package includes:
- All accommodations in carefully selected hotels or ryokans.
- All transportation within Japan as specified in the itinerary (e.g., Japan Rail Pass, private transfers).
- Private guided excursions and unique local experiences.
- Detailed pre-departure information and support. International flights from Switzerland are typically not included, allowing you the flexibility to use your preferred airline or loyalty points. We will clearly list everything that is included and excluded in your personal quote.
Travel & Logistics
5. Can you book our international flights from Zurich, Geneva, etc.? While we don’t book international flights directly, we provide expert advice on the best routes and airlines. This gives you the freedom to choose flights that best suit your schedule and budget. We will coordinate your tour schedule perfectly with your flight arrival and departure times.
6. What kind of accommodation do you use? We believe accommodation is a key part of the travel experience. We select from a curated list of properties, ranging from high-quality city hotels and stylish boutique hotels to traditional ryokans (Japanese inns) for an authentic cultural experience. We prioritize comfort, location, and excellent service.
7. Is Japan difficult to navigate for non-Japanese speakers? While English is not as widely spoken outside of major tourist areas, Japan’s public transport system is incredibly efficient, punctual, and has signage in English. For your key travel days and excursions, you will have a private guide. For your free time, we provide you with detailed instructions, maps, and support apps to ensure you can explore with confidence and ease.
Experience & On-the-Ground Support
8. Who are your guides? Our guides are professional, licensed, and fluent in English. More importantly, they are passionate storytellers who are eager to share deep insights into Japanese culture, history, and daily life. They are not just guides; they are your cultural interpreters and local friends.
9. How much free time will I have? Our itineraries are designed with a perfect balance of guided activities and independent exploration. We ensure you see the “must-see” sights with an expert, but we also build in ample free time for you to wander, shop, dine, and make your own discoveries.
10. What kind of support do you provide during the trip? You will have 24/7 on-the-ground support from our local partners in Japan. Before you leave, you will receive a comprehensive travel package with all your tickets, reservations, and a contact number for immediate assistance for any reason during your trip.
Practical Questions
11. Is Japan an expensive country to visit? Japan has a reputation for being expensive, but it offers a wide range of options. While some things like long-distance train travel can be costly (which is why we often include a Japan Rail Pass), daily expenses like food can be very reasonable. We work with you to design a trip that aligns with your budget without compromising on quality.
12. Do I need a lot of cash, or are credit cards widely accepted? While major hotels, restaurants, and department stores widely accept credit cards, Japan is still a cash-based society, especially in smaller shops, local markets, and temples. We recommend always having a reasonable amount of Japanese Yen with you. We will provide detailed advice on this in your pre-departure information.
