Travel to Japan

December 16, 2004 1:27 PM

My husband and I want to take a vacation in Japan. He's been there once and speaks some Japanese, but I was wondering if there is a kind of guided tour where they don't babysit you everywhere, but do help organize English-speaking tours of things that might be hard to do on our own (Fuji, Hiroshima, possibly even Okinawa). We really don't want to sign on for the traditional guided tour, but would love to be able to have some guidance when needed. Any companies like this out there? thanks!
posted by GaelFC to Travel & Transportation around Japan (2 answers total)

Here's what I would do: get a good guidebook (like Rough Guide), figure out where you want to go, and find local operators there that do tours. Alternatively, here is a list from Rough Guide that might be a good starting point. Something like a Flexi-Pak might work. In other words, rather than doing an all-inclusive, pick from the buffet. Good luck, sounds fun!
posted by acridrabbit at 4:44 PM on December 16, 2004

You could try making local contacts before you go, or something like this: Tokyo-Edo Goodwill Guides Club

There are often International Friendship associations connected to the city government who might have recommendations, and larger cities might have English magazines where some people/groups offer their services. Also, many people want to practice their English (with varying levels of skill) and might enjoy being a guide or sharing information.
posted by MightyNez at 1:28 AM on December 17, 2004