Japan Self-Guided Tours
Experience Japan at your own pace, with the help of our Japan experts. With carefully curated routes, detailed maps, and helpful recommendations, our Japan Self-Guided Tours allow you to discover the essence of Japan on your own terms.
![Arashiyama bamboo forest in Kyoto Japan]({"src":"public:\/\/arashiyama-bamboo-forest-in-kyoto-japan_0.jpg","style":"yct_crp","type":"min_scale","steps":160,"ratios":{"ls":{"interpolation":"linear","minWidth":160,"maxWidth":2560,"crop":{"width":2560,"height":1440,"x":0,"y":73}},"sq":{"interpolation":"linear","minWidth":160,"maxWidth":2560,"minHeight":160,"maxHeight":2560,"crop":{"width":2560,"height":2560,"x":0,"y":0}},"po":{"interpolation":"linear","minHeight":160,"maxHeight":2560,"crop":{"width":1440,"height":2560,"x":402,"y":0}}},"full_width":"2245","full_height":"1587","focalPoint":{"x":"50","y":"50"}} "Arashiyama bamboo forest in Kyoto Japan")
![Walking in Yanaka Ginza]({"src":"public:\/\/walking-in-yanaka-ginza.jpg","style":"yct_crp","type":"min_scale","steps":160,"ratios":{"ls":{"interpolation":"linear","minWidth":160,"maxWidth":2560,"crop":{"width":2560,"height":1440,"x":2385,"y":1723}},"sq":{"interpolation":"linear","minWidth":160,"maxWidth":2560,"minHeight":160,"maxHeight":2560,"crop":{"width":2560,"height":2560,"x":2385,"y":1163}},"po":{"interpolation":"linear","minHeight":160,"maxHeight":2560,"crop":{"width":1440,"height":2560,"x":2945,"y":1163}}},"full_width":"7331","full_height":"4887","focalPoint":{"x":"50","y":"50"}} "Walking in Yanaka Ginza")
![sensoji spiritual tokyo]({"src":"public:\/\/senso-ji-spiritual-tokyo.jpg","style":"yct_crp","type":"min_scale","steps":160,"ratios":{"ls":{"interpolation":"linear","minWidth":160,"maxWidth":2560,"crop":{"width":2560,"height":1440,"x":1147,"y":759}},"sq":{"interpolation":"linear","minWidth":160,"maxWidth":2560,"minHeight":160,"maxHeight":2560,"crop":{"width":2560,"height":2560,"x":1147,"y":199}},"po":{"interpolation":"linear","minHeight":160,"maxHeight":2560,"crop":{"width":1440,"height":2560,"x":1707,"y":199}}},"full_width":"4855","full_height":"2959","focalPoint":{"x":"50","y":"50"}} "sensoji spiritual tokyo")
![Japanese inari icon]({"src":"public:\/\/japanese-inari.jpg","style":"yct_adaptive","type":"scale","steps":160,"ratios":{"ls":{"interpolation":"linear","minWidth":80,"maxWidth":2560},"sq":{"interpolation":"linear","minWidth":80,"maxWidth":2560,"minHeight":80,"maxHeight":2560},"po":{"interpolation":"linear","minHeight":80,"maxHeight":2560}},"full_width":"75","full_height":"75","focalPoint":{"x":"50","y":"50"}} "Japanese inari icon")
Extensive Expertise
Our team has lived in Japan
![Japanese bamboo icon]({"src":"public:\/\/japanese-bamboo.jpg","style":"yct_adaptive","type":"scale","steps":160,"ratios":{"ls":{"interpolation":"linear","minWidth":80,"maxWidth":2560},"sq":{"interpolation":"linear","minWidth":80,"maxWidth":2560,"minHeight":80,"maxHeight":2560},"po":{"interpolation":"linear","minHeight":80,"maxHeight":2560}},"full_width":"75","full_height":"75","focalPoint":{"x":"50","y":"50"}} "Japanese bamboo icon")
Independent exploration
Explore Japan at your own pace
![Japanese daruma doll icon]({"src":"public:\/\/japanese-daruma-doll.jpg","style":"yct_adaptive","type":"scale","steps":160,"ratios":{"ls":{"interpolation":"linear","minWidth":80,"maxWidth":2560},"sq":{"interpolation":"linear","minWidth":80,"maxWidth":2560,"minHeight":80,"maxHeight":2560},"po":{"interpolation":"linear","minHeight":80,"maxHeight":2560}},"full_width":"75","full_height":"75","focalPoint":{"x":"50","y":"50"}} "Japanese daruma doll icon")
Exceeding Expectations
Itineraries infused with cultural knowledge
![People crossing the famed Shibuya Crossing at night]({"src":"public:\/\/shibuya-crossing-in-japan-at-night_1.jpg","style":"yct_crp","type":"min_scale","steps":160,"ratios":{"ls":{"interpolation":"linear","minWidth":160,"maxWidth":2560,"crop":{"width":2560,"height":1440,"x":1083,"y":855}},"sq":{"interpolation":"linear","minWidth":160,"maxWidth":2560,"minHeight":160,"maxHeight":2560,"crop":{"width":2560,"height":2560,"x":1083,"y":295}},"po":{"interpolation":"linear","minHeight":160,"maxHeight":2560,"crop":{"width":1440,"height":2560,"x":1643,"y":295}}},"full_width":"4726","full_height":"3151","focalPoint":{"x":"50","y":"50"}} "People crossing the famed Shibuya Crossing at night")
![Geisha walking along Fushimi Inari Shrine]({"src":"public:\/\/geisha-walking-along-fushimi-inari-shrine_0.jpg","style":"yct_crp","type":"min_scale","steps":160,"ratios":{"ls":{"interpolation":"linear","minWidth":160,"maxWidth":2560,"crop":{"width":2560,"height":1440,"x":0,"y":0}},"sq":{"interpolation":"linear","minWidth":160,"maxWidth":2560,"minHeight":160,"maxHeight":2560,"crop":{"width":2560,"height":2560,"x":0,"y":0}},"po":{"interpolation":"linear","minHeight":160,"maxHeight":2560,"crop":{"width":1440,"height":2560,"x":180,"y":0}}},"full_width":"1800","full_height":"1080","focalPoint":{"x":"50","y":"50"}} "Geisha walking along Fushimi Inari Shrine")
![Golden pavilion in Kyoto, Japan]({"src":"public:\/\/golden-pavilion-japan_0.jpg","style":"yct_crp","type":"min_scale","steps":160,"ratios":{"ls":{"interpolation":"linear","minWidth":160,"maxWidth":2560,"crop":{"width":2560,"height":1440,"x":470,"y":447}},"sq":{"interpolation":"linear","minWidth":160,"maxWidth":2560,"minHeight":160,"maxHeight":2560,"crop":{"width":2560,"height":2560,"x":470,"y":0}},"po":{"interpolation":"linear","minHeight":160,"maxHeight":2560,"crop":{"width":1440,"height":2560,"x":1030,"y":0}}},"full_width":"3500","full_height":"2334","focalPoint":{"x":"50","y":"50"}} "Golden pavilion in Kyoto, Japan")
![Romantic Japan tour in the autumn]({"src":"public:\/\/romantic-japan-tour-in-the-autumn_0.jpg","style":"yct_crp","type":"min_scale","steps":160,"ratios":{"ls":{"interpolation":"linear","minWidth":160,"maxWidth":2560,"crop":{"width":2560,"height":1440,"x":1614,"y":1209}},"sq":{"interpolation":"linear","minWidth":160,"maxWidth":2560,"minHeight":160,"maxHeight":2560,"crop":{"width":2560,"height":2560,"x":1614,"y":649}},"po":{"interpolation":"linear","minHeight":160,"maxHeight":2560,"crop":{"width":1440,"height":2560,"x":2174,"y":649}}},"full_width":"5789","full_height":"3859","focalPoint":{"x":"50","y":"50"}} "Romantic Japan tour in the autumn")
Discover Japan with Self-Guided Tours
Embarking on a self-guided tour of Japan allows you to explore the country's breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and exquisite cuisine at your pace, while still benefiting from expert planning and advice. Self-guided tours in Japan are perfect for those who cherish their independence and prefer to travel with their loved ones, without the constraints of a traditional group tour.
Japan Self-Guided Tours offer an incredible level of convenience and support, ensuring your trip is nothing short of extraordinary. Our team of experts meticulously craft your personalized itinerary, taking care of accommodations, transportation, select activities, and even providing internet access, a Japan manners and customs books and a complete Japan exploration journal. You'll also receive a wealth of expert recommendations, enabling you to make the most of your time in Japan.
![You Could Travel kimono experience in Japan]({"src":"public:\/\/you-could-travel-kimono-experience-in-japan_0.jpeg","style":"yct_crp","type":"min_scale","steps":160,"ratios":{"ls":{"interpolation":"linear","minWidth":160,"maxWidth":2560,"crop":{"width":2560,"height":1440,"x":1168,"y":912}},"sq":{"interpolation":"linear","minWidth":160,"maxWidth":2560,"minHeight":160,"maxHeight":2560,"crop":{"width":2560,"height":2560,"x":1168,"y":352}},"po":{"interpolation":"linear","minHeight":160,"maxHeight":2560,"crop":{"width":1440,"height":2560,"x":1728,"y":352}}},"full_width":"4896","full_height":"3264","focalPoint":{"x":"50","y":"50"}} "You Could Travel kimono experience in Japan")
One of the key advantages of a self-guided tour is the freedom to create an experience that truly reflects your interests and preferences. We provide an array of suggestions and optional activities, allowing you to personalize your journey and delve into the aspects of Japan that fascinate you the most. With almost a decade of experience working with local expert partners, we ensure you have access to the best activities and experiences Japan has to offer.
By choosing a self-guided tour, you maintain flexibility and independence without the need to share your trip with strangers or adhere to a strict schedule. This unique approach to travel ensures you have the opportunity to create unforgettable memories, tailored to your taste, while focusing on interacting with locals in a more immersive and authentic way.
If you're seeking the perfect blend of independence and expert guidance, a Japan Self-Guided Tour is the ideal solution for your dream vacation. Embark on a journey like no other, and immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Japan.
Select your perfect trip from our collections of self-guided tours!
Why Travellers Love You Could Travel
Because we create the best Japan trips for travellers strapped for time
![Beautiful higashiyama in Kyoto Japan]({"src":"public:\/\/featured-images\/beautiful-higashiyama-in-kyoto-japan_0.jpeg","style":"yct_crp","type":"min_scale","steps":160,"ratios":{"ls":{"interpolation":"linear","minWidth":160,"maxWidth":2560,"crop":{"width":2560,"height":1440,"x":2696,"y":1932}},"sq":{"interpolation":"linear","minWidth":160,"maxWidth":2560,"minHeight":160,"maxHeight":2560,"crop":{"width":2560,"height":2560,"x":2696,"y":1372}},"po":{"interpolation":"linear","minHeight":160,"maxHeight":2560,"crop":{"width":1440,"height":2560,"x":3256,"y":1372}}},"full_width":"7952","full_height":"5304","focalPoint":{"x":"50","y":"50"}} "Beautiful higashiyama in Kyoto Japan")
![Beautiful preserved street in Kyoto Arashiyama district]({"src":"public:\/\/beautiful-preserved-street-in-kyoto-arashiyama-district.jpg","style":"yct_crp","type":"min_scale","steps":160,"ratios":{"ls":{"interpolation":"linear","minWidth":160,"maxWidth":2560,"crop":{"width":2560,"height":1440,"x":2422,"y":1748}},"sq":{"interpolation":"linear","minWidth":160,"maxWidth":2560,"minHeight":160,"maxHeight":2560,"crop":{"width":2560,"height":2560,"x":2422,"y":1188}},"po":{"interpolation":"linear","minHeight":160,"maxHeight":2560,"crop":{"width":1440,"height":2560,"x":2982,"y":1188}}},"full_width":"7404","full_height":"4936","focalPoint":{"x":"50","y":"50"}} "Beautiful preserved street in Kyoto Arashiyama district")
![]({"src":"public:\/\/japanese-lantern.jpg","style":"yct_adaptive","type":"scale","steps":160,"ratios":{"ls":{"interpolation":"linear","minWidth":80,"maxWidth":2560},"sq":{"interpolation":"linear","minWidth":80,"maxWidth":2560,"minHeight":80,"maxHeight":2560},"po":{"interpolation":"linear","minHeight":80,"maxHeight":2560}},"full_width":"75","full_height":"75","focalPoint":{"x":"50","y":"50"}})
Custom Trips By Japan Experts
Our team consists of renowned experts in Japan travel that create the best tours
![]({"src":"public:\/\/sumo-player.jpg","style":"yct_adaptive","type":"scale","steps":160,"ratios":{"ls":{"interpolation":"linear","minWidth":80,"maxWidth":2560},"sq":{"interpolation":"linear","minWidth":80,"maxWidth":2560,"minHeight":80,"maxHeight":2560},"po":{"interpolation":"linear","minHeight":80,"maxHeight":2560}},"full_width":"75","full_height":"75","focalPoint":{"x":"50","y":"50"}})
Authentic Trips And Experiences
Our Japan experts ensure that you have the best and most authentic experiences
![]({"src":"public:\/\/japanese-ryokan.jpg","style":"yct_adaptive","type":"scale","steps":160,"ratios":{"ls":{"interpolation":"linear","minWidth":80,"maxWidth":2560},"sq":{"interpolation":"linear","minWidth":80,"maxWidth":2560,"minHeight":80,"maxHeight":2560},"po":{"interpolation":"linear","minHeight":80,"maxHeight":2560}},"full_width":"75","full_height":"75","focalPoint":{"x":"50","y":"50"}})
Secure And Easy Booking
You can easily book via You Could Travel's secure payment platform
![Japanese koinobori icon]({"src":"public:\/\/japanese-koinobori.jpg","style":"yct_adaptive","type":"scale","steps":160,"ratios":{"ls":{"interpolation":"linear","minWidth":80,"maxWidth":2560},"sq":{"interpolation":"linear","minWidth":80,"maxWidth":2560,"minHeight":80,"maxHeight":2560},"po":{"interpolation":"linear","minHeight":80,"maxHeight":2560}},"full_width":"75","full_height":"75","focalPoint":{"x":"50","y":"50"}} "Japanese koinobori icon")
Free Guides And Support
Our Japan specialists will send you exclusive local recommendations
Why Choose a Self-Guided Tour?
Self-guided tours to Japan offer the perfect blend of independence and expert planning.
Embarking on a journey to Japan can be both thrilling and intimidating, as navigating through language differences, cultural nuances, and unfamiliar customs can pose significant challenges for even the most seasoned traveller.
Self-guided tours offer the perfect solution for those seeking the ideal balance between independence and expert guidance, allowing you to confidently explore this fascinating country. There are numerous advantages to self-guided tours in Japan, including their convenience, cost-effectiveness, suitability for couples and small groups, and the safety they provide. As experts in Japanese travel, we are uniquely positioned to help bridge the cultural gaps and ensure you have an unforgettable experience. Discover how a self-guided tour can enrich your Japanese adventure, granting you the freedom to create lasting memories while benefiting from our expertise and support.
Convenience
One of the primary benefits of self-guided tours is the unparalleled convenience they offer. With a self-guided tour, you no longer have to worry about the logistical challenges of planning your trip, such as booking accommodations, organizing transportation, and scheduling activities. Our team of Japan experts takes care of these details, providing you with a seamless travel experience. Furthermore, self-guided tours grant you the freedom to explore at your own pace, giving you the opportunity to linger at sites that truly captivate you, without feeling rushed or constrained by a group itinerary.
Cost-effective
Self-guided tours are often more cost-effective than traditional group tours. By eliminating the need for a full-time tour guide and additional group expenses, self-guided tours allow you to enjoy a high-quality travel experience at a more affordable price. Additionally, you have the flexibility to choose activities and experiences that fit your budget, ensuring that your trip remains financially accessible and enjoyable.
Perfect for a Family or Small Group
Self-guided tours are an ideal option for families and small groups, as they provide a more intimate and personalized travel experience. Unlike large group tours, you can tailor your itinerary to meet the specific interests and preferences of your travel companions, fostering a deeper sense of connection and shared memories.
Furthermore, self-guided tours enable you to decide the pace of your trip, making it easier to accommodate the needs and abilities of all travellers in your party, be it young children or elderly family members.
Safety
While the prospect of independent travel can seem daunting to some, self-guided tours offer a safe and secure travel experience. Our team of experts carefully curated your itinerary, ensuring you visit reputable sites and engage with trusted local partners.
This unique blend of independence and expert guidance allows you to enjoy the best of both worlds: the freedom to discover new places and the peace of mind that comes with expert planning and support.
Why Book With Us
We're passionate about crafting experiences that give you the world - one journey at a time. Our firsthand experience living in Japan allows us to provide comprehensive knowledge and authentic insights to enrich your travel experience.
![Somentaro okonomiyaki restaurant in Asakusa Tokyo]({"src":"public:\/\/sometaro-okonomiyaki-restaurant-asakusa-tokyo.jpg","style":"yct_crp","type":"min_scale","steps":160,"ratios":{"ls":{"interpolation":"linear","minWidth":160,"maxWidth":2560,"crop":{"width":2560,"height":1440,"x":2542,"y":1828}},"sq":{"interpolation":"linear","minWidth":160,"maxWidth":2560,"minHeight":160,"maxHeight":2560,"crop":{"width":2560,"height":2560,"x":2542,"y":1268}},"po":{"interpolation":"linear","minHeight":160,"maxHeight":2560,"crop":{"width":1440,"height":2560,"x":3102,"y":1268}}},"full_width":"7644","full_height":"5096","focalPoint":{"x":"50","y":"50"}} "Somentaro okonomiyaki restaurant in Asakusa Tokyo")
![Top things to do in Tokyo - salaryman entering a Yokocho in Tokyo]({"src":"public:\/\/top-things-to-do-in-tokyo-salaryman-entering-a-yokocho-in-tokyo.jpg","style":"yct_crp","type":"min_scale","steps":160,"ratios":{"ls":{"interpolation":"linear","minWidth":160,"maxWidth":2560,"crop":{"width":2560,"height":1440,"x":2383,"y":1722}},"sq":{"interpolation":"linear","minWidth":160,"maxWidth":2560,"minHeight":160,"maxHeight":2560,"crop":{"width":2560,"height":2560,"x":2383,"y":1162}},"po":{"interpolation":"linear","minHeight":160,"maxHeight":2560,"crop":{"width":1440,"height":2560,"x":2943,"y":1162}}},"full_width":"7326","full_height":"4884","focalPoint":{"x":"50","y":"50"}} "Top things to do in Tokyo - salaryman entering a Yokocho in Tokyo")
![Senso-ji temple in Asakusa Tokyo]({"src":"public:\/\/senso-ji-temple-tokyo.jpg","style":"yct_crp","type":"min_scale","steps":160,"ratios":{"ls":{"interpolation":"linear","minWidth":160,"maxWidth":2560,"crop":{"width":2560,"height":1440,"x":2566,"y":1844}},"sq":{"interpolation":"linear","minWidth":160,"maxWidth":2560,"minHeight":160,"maxHeight":2560,"crop":{"width":2560,"height":2560,"x":2566,"y":1284}},"po":{"interpolation":"linear","minHeight":160,"maxHeight":2560,"crop":{"width":1440,"height":2560,"x":3126,"y":1284}}},"full_width":"7692","full_height":"5128","focalPoint":{"x":"50","y":"50"}} "Senso-ji temple in Asakusa Tokyo")
![]({"src":"public:\/\/japanese-geisha.jpg","style":"yct_adaptive","type":"scale","steps":160,"ratios":{"ls":{"interpolation":"linear","minWidth":80,"maxWidth":2560},"sq":{"interpolation":"linear","minWidth":80,"maxWidth":2560,"minHeight":80,"maxHeight":2560},"po":{"interpolation":"linear","minHeight":80,"maxHeight":2560}},"full_width":"75","full_height":"75","focalPoint":{"x":"50","y":"50"}})
Culturally Rich Trips
Fully immersive Japan trips
![]({"src":"public:\/\/japanese-sakura.jpg","style":"yct_adaptive","type":"scale","steps":160,"ratios":{"ls":{"interpolation":"linear","minWidth":80,"maxWidth":2560},"sq":{"interpolation":"linear","minWidth":80,"maxWidth":2560,"minHeight":80,"maxHeight":2560},"po":{"interpolation":"linear","minHeight":80,"maxHeight":2560}},"full_width":"75","full_height":"75","focalPoint":{"x":"50","y":"50"}})
Exceptional Service
Meticulously planned itineraries
![]({"src":"public:\/\/japanese-neko.jpg","style":"yct_adaptive","type":"scale","steps":160,"ratios":{"ls":{"interpolation":"linear","minWidth":80,"maxWidth":2560},"sq":{"interpolation":"linear","minWidth":80,"maxWidth":2560,"minHeight":80,"maxHeight":2560},"po":{"interpolation":"linear","minHeight":80,"maxHeight":2560}},"full_width":"75","full_height":"75","focalPoint":{"x":"50","y":"50"}})
Insider Knowledge
Our team has lived in Japan
Discover the Magic of Japan with Us.
Discover The Timeless Beauty Of Japan With Our Brochure
Read our Japan brochure online and learn how our team of Japan experts here at You Could Travel will help you organise the trip of a lifetime. Uncover the secrets of Japan's rich culture, indulge in exquisite cuisine, and witness breathtaking natural landscapes.
![You Could Travel Japan Tours Brochure]({"src":"public:\/\/you-could-travel-japan-tours-brochure.jpg","style":"yct_crp","type":"min_scale","steps":160,"ratios":{"ls":{"interpolation":"linear","minWidth":160,"maxWidth":2560,"crop":{"width":2560,"height":1440,"x":0,"y":240}},"sq":{"interpolation":"linear","minWidth":160,"maxWidth":2560,"minHeight":160,"maxHeight":2560,"crop":{"width":2560,"height":2560,"x":0,"y":0}},"po":{"interpolation":"linear","minHeight":160,"maxHeight":2560,"crop":{"width":1440,"height":2560,"x":0,"y":0}}},"full_width":"1080","full_height":"1920","focalPoint":{"x":"50","y":"50"}} "You Could Travel Japan Tours Brochure")
Why book your self-guided tour in Japan with us?
When planning your Japanese adventure, choosing the right travel partner can make all the difference. We are a team of Japan experts, dedicated to ensuring you experience the very best that Japan has to offer. With extensive knowledge and first-hand experience, we meticulously curate self-guided tours that have been tried, tested, and perfected for your enjoyment.
Unlike most other advisors and operators, we've specifically visited Japan for extended periods of time. We've been to all the locations we recommend and book on your behalf. This is precisely why we're proud to curate perfect trips that also suit first timers to Japan. We're happy to put together your dream trip too, with a custom itinerary, so please don't hesitate to ask.
Unparalleled guidance
Beyond crafting exceptional itineraries, we provide unparalleled guidance before your journey begins. Our rich articles and resources help you learn about Japan's unique culture, customs, and attractions. Our Japan articles consistently rank on the first page of Google, and we are globally recognised as one of the top travel websites in the world.
Partners with local businesses
We offer optional travel insurance packages and carefully selected activities, partnering with trusted providers and Japanese businesses we have been working with for over 7 years.
Immersive Cultural Experiences
Our commitment to creating an immersive cultural experience is reflected in the inclusion of unique, expert-led experiences in your itinerary. To further enhance your understanding of Japan, we provide a beautifully illustrated Japanese Customs and Manners book, created in partnership with a skilled Japanese illustrator, as well as a specialized guide featuring useful Japanese phrases for your convenience.
Seamless Travel
To ensure a seamless adventure, we have compiled a list of essential travel apps tailored to your needs. We also take pride in offering personalized itineraries for travellers seeking a bespoke experience.
Prime Accommodations
Our hand-picked accommodations are in prime locations, close to public transport and major attractions, so you can maximize your time in Japan. Travel is personal, and we understand that you might want to upgrade your travel experience. We're happy to assist, so please don't hesitate to get in touch.
Japan Journal
Finally, you will receive a Japan Journal that contains all the information about your itinerary, along with recommendations for activities, places to visit, places to eat, and interesting attractions. This guide will also describe useful information on how to get around, including transportation options and travel tips.