Review

An ideal itinerary for a first time traveller to Japan.

I enjoyed the experience of Japanese traditional inn style accommodation however for a traveller with a problematic left foot (trapped nerve between 2 toes-a very common complaint), the requirement to walk inside in socks Vs using (indoor only) shoes was difficult. Just unfortunate for me. Didn\'t detract from the enjoyment of the tour.

Exceeded expectations. All but one guide put a lot of effort into ensuring our provided lunch or dinners were excellent. It was very much appreciated (and enjoyed).

One guide (Takayama) is not included in this rating. All other guides are a credit to Samurai Tours and went above and beyond to make our time with them and the destinations and experiences they curated outstanding.

Only minor point of feedback is that I was unaware until the last set of documentation we did not have a guide with us for the entire tour. I would not have been deterred to learn this earlier. There are many benefits from the approach you have perfected with a guide per city/area. A weakness was evident though with the Takayama (day) guide not taking interest in the tour member who was unwell / unable to participate in the planned activity. Had this been addressed that day by seeking medical attention (which she was asking for), the situation could have been easier for all. As it was, the rest of the tour group was exposed to constant coughing and an unwell companion for the remainder of the tour. Were we unreasonable in expecting the day guide to provide this level of interest or at the least, alert your tour coordinator? It was left to JJ to deal with the issue in Koyasan on a Sunday 2.5 hours from Osaka to sort out medical attention. Unnecessary if it had been acted on earlier. The ill tour member should not have been allowed to travel to Koyasan in my opinion.

Brilliant!

Excellent!