Japan guided luxury adventure holiday

Planet

CARBON REDUCTION

The accommodations on this itinerary do not publicly report direct use of renewable energy. To reduce their carbon footprint, they implement measures such as linen reuse, energy- and water saving practices, local and seasonal meal sourcing, and low-impact operations at traditional ryokan or temple stays, such as, Common measures include linen reuse and limited housekeeping to save water and energy, waste sorting and recycling programs, reduction of single use plastics, and use of energy-efficient lighting and fixtures. Traditional ryokan and temple stays further reduce impacts through low-energy buildings, local and seasonal food sourcing, and minimal mechanical systems, which collectively lower air, noise, and water pollution.

Most meals on this itinerary emphasize local and seasonal ingredients. For example, shojin ryori at Joki-in Temple uses locally grown vegetables, and ryokan meals in the Kiso Valley often feature regional produce and fish. Restaurants in Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Tokyo prioritize seasonal. Vegetarian and vegan options are available throughout the trip. Most lunches and dinners, especially in temple stays like Joki-in (Koyasan), offer traditional shojin ryori, which is fully vegetarian and plant-based. Other meals at restaurants and hotels can accommodate vegetarian or vegan requests in advance, including options during Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Tokyo meals.


ENVIRONMENT AND WILDLIFE

The accommodations on this itinerary do not report formal nature restoration projects such as bird/bat boxes or rooftop gardens. However, some properties, like Hotel Higashiyama Kyoto, participate in green campaigns linked to guest stays, such as tree planting or forest conservation initiatives. Traditional ryokan and temple stays contribute indirectly by maintaining gardens, using
local landscaping, and supporting biodiversity through low-impact land management.

The trip includes entry fees to several protected or cultural sites, such as Saiho-ji Temple (Kyoto), Itsukushima Shrine (Miyajima), Peace Memorial Museum (Hiroshima), and Gifu Castle, ranging from approximately ₯200 to ₯3,000 per person. Other temple and cultural visits are free or include optional fees for special experiences

People

LOCAL ECONOMY

The accommodations on this itinerary include a mix of locally owned and chain properties. Joki-in Temple and Onyado Tsutaya Kiso are locally operated, supporting the regional economy, while Hotel Higashiyama Kyoto is part of the Tokyu Hotels group, and The Kitano Hotel Tokyo is a small, independently managed boutique hotel.

The trip maximizes local economic benefits by employing local guides in Kyoto, Hiroshima, Koyasan, and the Kiso Valley. Guests visit craft and cultural workshops such as the Kintsugi workshop, Hinoki chopsticks making, and Sake brewery tasting. The itinerary also includes village visits to Tsumago and Nagiso, as well as locally operated restaurants and ryokan, supporting small businesses and artisans throughout the regions.

EMPLOYMENT, DIVERSITY and INCLUSIVITY

This trip is LGBTQ+ friendly. All accommodations, guides, and service providers included in the itinerary are welcoming and respectful of LGBTQ+ travelers, ensuring a safe and inclusive experience throughout Japan.

This trip is partially suitable for travelers with limited mobility, vision, hearing, or cognitive needs, though some sites may pose challenges. For example, traditional temples, ryokan, and older streets in Kyoto, Koyasan, and the Kiso Valley may have steps, uneven surfaces, or narrow pathways. Private transfers, taxis, and accessible public transportation options are included where possible to improve mobility, and local guides can assist with navigation and support.