Japan small group tours

Planet

CARBON REDUCTION

One of the highlights of travelling through Japan is experiencing its world renowned public transport system. Throughout the trip, we travel extensively using local trains and the iconic Shinkansen bullet train, reducing the need for private vehicle transfers while giving travellers the opportunity to experience Japan like a local.

We conduct regular environmental reviews of our trips and suppliers to help identify opportunities to improve environmental practices and reduce impacts where possible.

At the start of the trip, travellers receive information about our Small Change initiative, including practical ways to reduce their environmental footprint while travelling. Through our partnership with Skyscanner, travellers can also view information about the estimated emissions associated with their flights.

Many experiences throughout the itinerary are explored on foot or by public transport, allowing travellers to experience Japan's cities, countryside and cultural landmarks using a range of local transport options.

Travellers are encouraged to bring a reusable water bottle, and reusable INTRO bottles are available to purchase for those who need one.

ENVIRONMENT AND WILDLIFE

As part of our Small Change initiative, we support a range of environmental and community focused projects. In 2019, we partnered with Eden Reforestation Projects to plant 10 trees for every booking received. Since late 2023, we have also worked with Path Net Zero to measure the emissions associated with our tours and with Veritree to support verified tree planting projects.

Before, during and after our trips, travellers receive information and guidance about our Small Change initiative and responsible travel practices. This includes reducing single use plastics, respecting local customs and environments, and making thoughtful choices while travelling.

People

LOCAL ECONOMY

Making a positive difference in the destinations we visit is at the heart of what we do. Small Change is our socially conscious initiative designed to create meaningful positive impact within local communities while encouraging more responsible travel.

Rather than simply observing local culture, our trips are designed to help travellers better understand and respect Japan’s traditions, customs and way of life. Through genuine cultural exchange and shared experiences, we aim to ensure that travel is mutually beneficial for both our travellers and the communities they visit.

Throughout the trip, we work closely with local suppliers, guides and family run businesses for our experiences and activities. From learning sushi making from local chefs and staying in traditional ryokans, to experiencing temple stays with Buddhist monks and supporting artisan workshops in Nagano and Kyoto, travellers are able to connect more deeply with local culture while directly supporting local communities.

Every one of our trips includes a variety of #smallchanges that travellers experience first hand.

EMPLOYMENT, INCLUSIVITY AND DIVERSITY

Our local guides, or “legends”, are the backbone of our operations and a hugely important part of our family.

They and the wider local teams are provided with extensive training, support and benefits that go beyond fair pay alone. Alongside developing their guiding and leadership skills through our internal training programmes, they also have opportunities to work in different destinations and expand their experience and knowledge.

Several times each year, we offer opportunities for local guides to travel to another one of our destinations or take part in experiences they may not otherwise have access to, courtesy of and with love from us.