Your Japan Private Tour: Common Questions Answered

When planning a journey through Japan, the beauty lies in the details—the hidden shrines, the seasonal colors, and the seamless transitions between bustling cities and serene landscapes. Choosing a private car service is more than just a transportation decision; it is an investment in your comfort and peace of mind. We understand that you want your trip to be as unique as your own thumbprint, and you likely have questions about how a private tour fits into your vision. To help you plan with confidence, we’ve addressed the most common inquiries our guests have when preparing to discover Japan from the comfort of a private vehicle.

Is the itinerary preset or is there the option to collaborate and customize in advance?

We believe your trip should be as unique as you are. While we are happy to provide tried-and-true "best of" suggestions for those who want a starting point, our service is fully customizable.

In the weeks leading up to your arrival, we invite you to collaborate with our planning team. Whether you want to focus on hidden samurai history, hunt for the best local ramen, or visit specific artisan workshops, we will work with you to refine a bespoke schedule that aligns perfectly with your interests.

Is there flexibility to adjust on the day? Can the car be postponed?

One of the greatest luxuries of a private driver is the ability to pivot. If you wake up and decide you’d like an extra hour of rest, or if a sudden rain shower makes an indoor museum more appealing than a garden stroll, we can adjust your itinerary on the fly.

Regarding postponements, we understand that travel plans can be unpredictable. While we require notice for major schedule shifts (subject to our cancellation and rescheduling policy), we always strive to be as "flexible as bamboo" to accommodate your needs and ensure you don’t miss out on the experience.

However, for last minute postponement, we are unable to switch the dates. In Japan, our private cars are reserved for specific dates which cannot be adjusted. As mentioned above, we will be happy to adjust your itinerary on the fly if mood changes or the weather does not permit certain outdoor activities.

Are all the vehicles non-smoking?

Yes, absolutely. To ensure the comfort and health of all our guests—including families with children and those with sensitivities—all vehicles in our fleet are strictly non-smoking. We take great pride in maintaining a pristine, fresh interior for every journey. Every vehicle is equipped with a state-of-the-art HEPA filter to ensure air quality in the car is pristine. After every trip, the car is thoroughly cleaned to ensure high health and safety standards for all of our guests.

Is the service really door-to-door?

It truly is. Our mission is to remove the "friction" of travel. We will meet you at your hotel lobby, your ryokan entrance, or even the airport arrivals gate with a personalized greeting. At the end of your day, we don't just drop you at a station; we bring you right back to your doorstep or your next dinner destination, ensuring you never have to worry about navigating complex transit maps or carrying heavy shopping bags.

Due to various reasons, there are occasions where the car cannot park exactly in a specific spot. However, we ensure that the pickup point is no more than a one-minute walk from the provided address.

Do you offer to help buy tickets in advance to major sites and attractions?

Navigating Japanese booking systems for popular sites like the Ghibli Museum, teamLabs, the Shibuya Sky observatory, or specialized temples can be tricky. We are happy to assist with the procurement of tickets for your scheduled stops. By handling these details in advance, we ensure you spend your time enjoying the attractions rather than standing in long ticket lines.

Can you help secure restaurant reservations for harder-to-book locations?

Finding the perfect dining spot is a highlight of any Japan trip, but the best tables often require a local phone number or a Japanese-speaking representative to book. Our team can assist in securing reservations at highly sought-after restaurants, from Michelin-starred sushi bars to hidden local gems that don't appear on standard travel apps. We can even assist with finding locations that suit specific dietary needs. Just let us know your culinary preferences!

What is the pacing of the schedule like?

The beauty of a private tour is that you set the tempo. If you are a "high-energy" traveler who wants to see as much as possible, we can create an efficient, back-to-back schedule. Conversely, if you prefer a "slow travel" approach with long lunches and plenty of time for photography, we will pace the day accordingly. We will be happy to give some suggestions, but ultimately, we follow your lead.

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Exploring Japan should feel like a dream, not a logistical puzzle. Let us handle the driving, the parking, and the planning so you can simply enjoy the view.

Contact us to schedule your trip with Japan Private Drivers today!