Hanson family
Japan Trip

June 13-29

Located in the heart of central Tokyo, this hotel offers easy access to key attractions such as the Imperial Palace, Akihabara, and the vibrant districts of Shinjuku and Ginza. The nearby JR Iidabashi Station and multiple subway lines make navigating the city effortless, ensuring guests can explore Tokyo with ease.

Beyond its prime location, the hotel is renowned for its impeccable service and thoughtfully designed accommodations. Rooms are spacious, modern, and equipped with all the amenities needed for a relaxing stay, including plush bedding, high-speed Wi-Fi, and a serene atmosphere ideal for unwinding after a day of sightseeing. Dining options abound, with several on-site restaurants serving a variety of cuisines, from traditional Japanese dishes to international favorites, to suit every palate.

The Hotel Metropolitan Edmont Tokyo offers a perfect blend of hospitality, accessibility, and comfort. Its welcoming ambiance and attention to detail ensure an unforgettable stay in Japan’s bustling capital.

Tokyo: ADD-ON EXPERIENCES

For travelers seeking a more authentic and tranquil Japanese experience, the Kamesei Ryokan provides a perfect retreat.

Located in the picturesque Nagano Prefecture, this charming inn offers guests an opportunity to connect with Japan's rich cultural heritage.
Kamesei Ryokan is renowned for its traditional tatami-matted rooms, open-air onsen baths, and warm, personalized hospitality that makes every visitor feel at home. Guests can savor exquisite kaiseki meals, thoughtfully crafted with fresh, seasonal ingredients that highlight the region's culinary excellence.

Surrounded by serene natural beauty, including lush greenery and stunning mountain views, the ryokan is ideal for those looking to relax, recharge, and immerse themselves in a more peaceful side of Japan.

For travelers drawn to the timeless charm of Kyoto, The Machiya Kazahaya offers a remarkable blend of traditional elegance and modern comforts.

Located in the heart of Kyoto, this beautifully restored machiya townhouse allows guests to step back in time while enjoying conveniences suited to contemporary needs. Each room is meticulously designed with classic Japanese aesthetics, featuring sliding shoji screens, wooden beams, and tatami flooring.

What sets The Machiya Kazahaya apart is its dedication to preserving Kyoto's historical essence while providing a cozy and intimate atmosphere. Guests can experience the unique rhythm of Kyoto life, with easy access to some of the city's most iconic temples, markets, and cultural landmarks.

The Machiya Kazahaya is more than just a place to stay—it is an immersion into Kyoto's heritage, offering a serene and memorable experience that captures the spirit of this enchanting city.

Kyoto: Add-On Experiences

TRAVEL DETAILS

REGISTRATION FORM

PLEASE TYPE CAREFULLY! INACCURATE INFORMATION WILL RESULT IN TRAVEL DELAYS AND/OR CHANGE FEES.

(Please submit one registration form per Family -max 4 people per registration form)

Pricing details

*All pricing & availability is subject to change until completed through the booking process. If your vacation package includes airfare, baggage fees may be an additional cost. For international travel, a passport book is required. Most locations require at least 6 months before expiration on your passport, as well as 2 blank visa pages.. Please make sure to have the correct and updated documents if applicable you have a criminal background, you are responsible for knowing the travel restrictions pertaining to the offense.

Total Cost for this package:
$4,930/pp

INCLUDED IN THE QUOTE

• Round Trip International flights

• JR Passes (4 adults)

  • 14 day Regular pass

• Hotels

  • as listed above

• Tours

  • As listed above in the itinerary

• Most taxes and fees

  • Service fees and commissions (NON REFUNDABLE)

NOT INCLUDED

• Rental Car

• Baseball Tickets

  • Not yet available for purchase

• Incidental charges 

• Local Tax

• 4% processing fee per payment (only if paying w/credit card)

• Optional Travel Insurance *DUE AT TIME OF BOOKING- PLEASE REVIEW THE DETAILS OF EACH PLAN THOROUGHLY

  • World Wide Trip Protector “Essentials”

  • World Wide Trip Protector “Deluxe”

  • World Wide Trip Protector ‘Premium’

  • Other insurance options are available, if you have questions or want more coverage options, please let us know at time of booking.

 

REGISTRATION 

• A completed registration form (one per household -max 2 people per registration form)

  • If you have more than 4 people from the same household going on this trip, please fill out multiple forms, as the maximum per form is 4 people.

FINAL PAYMENT

• Payments not received on time will result in reservation cancellation without refund.

• Additional bookings after the final payment deadline may result in higher prices, less availability and additional administrative fees.

• Fee amounts imposed are at the discretion of Zone Travel.

CANCELLATION

Cancellation in writing must be received by Zone Travel 60 days prior to departure for appropriate refund on the land tour cost minus the following fees:

• Commissions and Travel insurance are non-refundable.

Zone Travel LLC and its cooperative destination incur unrecoverable charges preparing for your trip therefore, no refunds if cancellations occur less than 60 days before departure. Cancellations more than 60 days prior to departure are based on individual group bookings per the outlined confirmation document you receive.

We sell a variety of travel related products from different suppliers and service providers ("Suppliers"). Each Supplier has its own terms and condition that are applicable to your particular arrangements in addition to our general terms and conditions, and you should make sure you understand them.

Zone Travel is acting as intermediary or a "Booking Agent" for products and services that are not directly supplied by us (e.g., air carriage and ground transportation, hotel accommodations, meals, tours, cruises, etc.). We are not a co-vendor of such products and services. You will be entering into a separate contract with such Suppliers in connection with such products and services.

By making payments to Zone Travel for this trip you are agreeing to all Terms and Conditions listed on the Zone Travel website.

Vendor Cancel policy: Each vendor has their own policies, which we have to apply. This information may vary and is listed in full detail on the contract signed for each vendor.

WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND TRAVEL INSURANCE

F.A.Q.

Useful Apps

VoiceTra

Worried about the language barrier in Japan? VoiceTra is a speech translation app supporting over 31 languages. Enjoy smooth communication in Japan particularly in places such as public transportation, shopping, hotels, or sightseeing spots.

Travel JAPAN Wi-Fi

Accessing free Wi-Fi can be a little difficult in Japan. With the Travel JAPAN Wi-Fi app, you'll be able to find free Wi-Fi while you are out and about. It automatically connects you to Wi-Fi hotspots, so you are never out of the loop.

Tokyo Metro Subway Map

Download a full and interactive map of the Tokyo Metro, plus a handy route planner for getting around. The map covers the Tokyo Metro lines, Toei lines and JR Yamanote line. It works offline to provide support even without an internet connection. With the Tokyo Metro Subway Map app, riding the metro is easy.

DiDi Rider: Affordable rides

Do you need a ride? Or are you craving for a pizza? Ride wherever you want or order food delivery with DiDi, the world's largest mobility app and professional food delivery platform! Order a car in just three taps for relaxed and comfortable travel.

Driving in Japan

Driving in Japan can be quite complicated and expensive. Those who cannot read the language will have trouble understanding road signs. Highway tolls are assessed at about US $1 per mile. City traffic is often very congested. A 20-mile trip in the Tokyo area may take two hours. There is virtually no roadside parking. In mountainous areas, roads are often closed during the winter, and cars should be equipped with tire chains.

Roads in Japan are much narrower than those in the United States. Vehicular traffic moves on the left. Turns at red lights are forbidden unless specifically authorized.

Japanese compulsory insurance is mandatory for all automobile owners and drivers in Japan. Your U.S. auto insurance likely does not provide coverage in Japan; check with your insurer.

Accidents and Liability

Japanese law provides that all persons who drive in Japan are held liable in the event of an accident, and assesses fault in an accident on all parties. The police may determine, for example, that a given accident was 80% the fault of Driver A, and 20% the fault of Driver B. Fines, penalties and the like would then be split the same way, i.e., 80-20.

Drivers stopped for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol will have their licenses confiscated. Persons found guilty of “drunken, speeding or blatantly careless driving that results in death” subject to up to 15 years in prison, tripling the previous maximum sentence. Japanese police are also permitted to contact financial institutions directly to determine an offenders financial status to combat evasion of payment for traffic violations.

The National Police Agency (NPA) oversees the administration and enforcement of traffic laws. Further information in English is available on the NPA’s web site .

Emergency Assistance

Within Japan, please dial 110 for police, and 119 for ambulance.

For roadside assistance, please contact the Japan Automobile Federation (JAF) at 03-5730-0111 in Tokyo, 072-645-0111 in Osaka, 011-857-8139 in Sapporo, 092-841-5000 in Fukuoka, or 098-877-9163 in Okinawa. Service is usually only available in Japanese.

Here is some information on how to call for help.

Renting a car in Japan

Do I need an International Drivers license to drive in Japan?

Yes.

What is an International Drivers License?

An International Driver's License, officially referred to as an International Driving Permit (IDP), is a globally recognized document that allows individuals to drive in foreign countries. It serves as a translation of your domestic driver’s license into multiple languages, making it easier for local authorities to verify your driving credentials while abroad. The IDP is typically issued by authorized organizations in your home country, such as automobile associations, and is valid alongside your original driver’s license. It is an essential document for travelers planning to rent vehicles or drive in countries where their domestic license might not be accepted. However, requirements for obtaining and using an IDP vary by country, so it is important to check the specific rules of your destination before traveling.

How do I get an International Drivers License?

An international driving permit issued in the United States by the American Automobile Association (AAA) is required of short-term visitors who drive in Japan.

IDP’s must be obtained prior to arriving in Japan. They cannot be obtained in Japan.

Note that IDP’s are not intended to replace valid U.S. state licenses and should only be used as a supplement to a valid license. In other words, you must also have a valid U.S. state license in addition to an IDP to drive in Japan.

Follow these links to learn more about getting an IDP:

• Learn about getting your IDP from American Automobile Association in the U.S.

• The Department of State has a special section on its web site concerning Road safety overseas including IDPs .

• You can locate the AAA office nearest you in the U.S. online.

Required Documents

• A completed application form.

• Two recent passport-sized photos.

• A valid driver’s license from your home country.

• The applicable fee for processing.

Submit the Application

Apply for the IDP in person or through mail, depending on your issuing authority's process. Ensure you apply well in advance of your travel dates as processing times can vary.

Verify Validity Period

An IDP for Japan is valid for one year from its issuance date. It must also remain valid alongside your home country’s driver’s license.

Once you have your IDP, you are allowed to rent and drive vehicles in Japan during your stay. Make sure to carry both your IDP and your original domestic license whenever you are driving.

Traffic rules in Japan

Cars drive on the left side of the road. Please note that many accidents occur when a car turns left or right. Japan has strict road rules including:

・When driving, ensure the driver and all passengers have seatbelts fastened.
・Make sure to observe and comply with all speed limits.
・You must not drive under the influence of alcohol.
・Using mobile devices while driving is illegal.
・Before crossing railroad tracks, drivers must pause at the stop line and check both ways for oncoming trains.
・Newly licensed and elderly drivers must display appropriate signs on the outside of their cars.
・When traveling in snowy areas, be sure to install winter tires or tire chains.
・Parking can be difficult to find in some urban centers.
・You may get penalties if you don't park your car in a designated car parking space.
・Tolls are levied on expressways and other major routes. Toll charges will depend on how far you wish to travel and which roads you intend to take. Example: Tolls for one route from Tokyo to Kyoto cost approximately ¥10,070.
・JAF publishes an multi-language guide to driving in Japan called “Rules of the Road”. These are available at JAF offices throughout Japan. For further information go to the JAF web site .

For the traffic rules in Japan, please see the following websites: All Japan Rent-a-Car Association Traffic Rules in Japan
All Japan Rent-a-car Association: Information for international tourists in Japan
JAF Traffic Rules in Japan
All Japan Rent-a-Car Association Car Rental Guide
Kyushu District Transport Bureau (MILT) Rent-A-Car Drive Manual English
Kyushu District Transport Bureau (MILT) Rent-A-Car Drive Manual Korean
Kyushu District Transport Bureau (MILT) Rent-A-Car Drive Manual Chinese
Kyushu District Transport Bureau (MILT) Rent-A-Car Drive Manual Thai

Expressways in Japan

In many cases, expressways in Japan require toll fees. Expressway tolls are collected at toll gates by either manual cash or credit card payment (gates with a green sign) or automatic ETC card payment (gates with a purple sign). If you rent a car and use an expressway, please obtain an ETC card from the rental company. ETC (Electronic Toll Collection) cards can be rented at most car rental companies. Please settle the toll fees charged to the ETC card when you return the car to the car rental company.

Along the expressways, there are service areas where one can use restrooms and enjoy a variety of restaurants and shops full of local products and souvenirs. Drive safely while taking regular breaks at service areas.

Unlimited Expressway Pass available only for foreign tourists

While the Japan Expressway Pass (JEP) is no longer for sale as of December 2023, many great regional expressway passes are available for purchase! These passes are only available to international travelers and provide unlimited use of major expressways in different regions throughout Japan. For more information, check out our Regional Expressway Passes guide here.

Hokkaido Expressway Pass
Tohoku Expressway Pass
San'in-Setouchi-Shikoku Expressway Pass (SEP）
Kyusyu Expressway Pass(KEP)

Central Nippon Expressway Pass (CEP)
※New bookings of CEP closed from October 1, 2024.

What is a “JR Pass” and why do you need one?

A Japan Rail (JR) Pass is a convenient and cost-effective way for travelers to explore Japan's extensive rail network.

One (regular) 14 day JR Pass per person is included in your package.

Designed exclusively for tourists, the JR Pass provides unlimited travel on most JR-operated trains, including the renowned shinkansen (bullet trains), regional lines, and even some buses and ferries. This pass comes in various durations, from 7 to 21 days, allowing travelers to choose an option that suits their itinerary.

The JR Pass is invaluable for those planning to visit multiple cities or regions during their trip to Japan. It not only simplifies transportation but also offers significant savings compared to purchasing individual train tickets for long-distance travel. With the JR Pass, you can seamlessly visit iconic destinations like Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, and beyond, all while enjoying the comfort and efficiency of Japan's world-class rail system. If your travel plans include exploring the country extensively, the JR Pass is a must-have for a stress-free and budget-friendly adventure.

Customs and Manners

If unsure, politeness and common sense go a long way

Following a general travelers code of respect for the people you meet and places you visit will stand you in good stead. Always ask if you are unsure of any particular cultural curiosities—the locals will be more than happy to tell you.

For first-time visitors, Japan can be both extremely familiar and outrageously alien. Learning a little about the custom of a particular region or place will untangle a few of the potential knots of confusion, as well as giving you a more fulfilling experience.
 

General greetings and etiquette

The Japanese custom of bowing may seem unfamiliar if you are not used to it. The act is deeply embedded in Japanese culture and can be full of tricky nuance—especially in the business world. As a guest in the country, you will more likely be bowed at, rather than expected to bow. However, to show your respect, it's a nice extra gesture to go with your “arigato” or thank you. Etiquette in public places is a serious business in Japan—a public-wide respect for these rules is probably the main reason why a megalopolis like Tokyo can function so smoothly. Generally speaking, common sense is the order of the day. Show respect for the places you are in and the people who are there, especially on public transport. If you carry a phone, keep it on silent mode and avoid speaking on it. If in doubt, just follow the locals.

Eating out

Nowadays, chopsticks can be found on dining tables all around the globe, so most visitors will not be surprised or fazed to see the neat pair of wooden sticks lined up in many of Japan's restaurants. If you are uncomfortable using them and would prefer a different kind of utensil, just ask the staff. Be aware however, an alternative may not be available—especially at more traditional spots.

If you have come to Japan for the sushi, remember that you can eat it with your hands. Pick up a piece, dip it into the bowl of soy-sauce, and enjoy.

When eating the variety of noodle dishes that Japan has to offer, local culture dictates that you slurp rather than chew—some will tell you that this even enhances the flavor. Whether you choose to slurp or not is up to you, just don't mind if the table next to you is making a little more noise than you might be used to.

Staying overnight

Most western hotels in Japan follow the same practices that you would expect throughout the world (with the exception of tipping, there is no need). However, the more traditional ryokan hotels still follow a time-honored code of conduct. From taking off your shoes at the entrance, to sleeping on futons on the floor, when you enter a ryokan, you are entering Japan from a different age. The Yukata gowns that you will usually find in your rooms can sometimes be worn outside, sometimes not. Same with the slippers. A list of dos and don'ts will adorn the walls of the communal bathrooms, and dinner may be served in your room or in a communal dining room. If you are feeling confused, don't be. If in doubt, simply ask. This is the best way to avoid any awkward misunderstandings, and the staff will be more than happy to help you.

Japanese Laws

A little homework can help you stay out of trouble

As in any country you visit, follow the local laws to the letter to avoid any unfortunate mishaps or misunderstandings.

Make sure you are aware of the local laws in Japan as ignorance is not accepted as a valid line of defense. While you should be mindful of the following, thorough research through the proper channels is strongly recommended.

Be sure to carry your passport with you at all times as a form of identification. The chances are you won't need to show it, but there is always a chance that you may be required to do so.

Smoking

Smoking is not allowed in most restaurants and bars, except in designated areas. This rule is strictly enforced—especially in the country's main cities—and can result in a fine, so don't walk and smoke, find a smoking area.

Drinking

Drinking outside on the other hand doesn't violate any laws—in fact, it's part of the culture, especially during the hanami season in spring when picnics under the cherry blossoms are common. However, while this might be the case, loud and boisterous behavior is not part of Japanese culture, so try to keep any outdoor partying under control. Be sure to take any litter home with you.

Tattoos

The issue of tattoos is a thorny one in Japan. Having a historical association with crime in Japan, many public swimming pools, public baths, hot spring resorts, and gyms prohibit entry to anyone with tattoos—even small ones. The rules are loosening slightly, and some establishments will simply ask you to cover any tattoos up. Research in advance to avoid any disappointment.

Drugs

There is zero tolerance towards any kind of drug-related crime. Simply put, just don't do it. Be aware that cannabis is treated in the same way as other drugs. Possession of a small amount can lead to a prison sentence, so please don't bring cannabis into the country; even if it is prescribed in your country of origin.

More information: https://www.npa.go.jp/english/bureau/criminal_affairs/image/warning_illegal_drugs_in_japan.pdf

Plugs and Electricity

Japan uses two flat parallel prong plugs. For guaranteed charging of your electrical necessities, purchase a plug adapter beforehand.

The voltage used throughout Japan is uniformly 100 volts, A.C. There are two kinds of frequencies in use—50 Hertz in eastern Japan and 60 Hertz in western Japan (including Nagoya, Kyoto and Osaka). Certain types of electrical appliances such as dual-voltage hair dryers, travel irons and shavers should work wherever you are in Japan. However, in other cases, a step-down transformer is required to convert the voltage.

In urban areas, it is relatively easy to find devices such as conversion plugs and transformers. They are sold in electronics quarters such as Tokyo's Akihabara and Osaka's Nipponbashi, or at major home appliance mass retailers such as Yodobashi Camera or Bic Camera.

If you need to charge your appliances on the go, new shinkansen models have outlets next to the window seats. If you would like such a seat, please ask the staff when you purchase your ticket. Some hamburger chains and family restaurants have outlets available.

Tipping

Tipping is not practiced in Japan. In fact, it can cause discomfort and confusion if you do. A service charge is generally added on to the final bill in restaurants.

Tipping practices in Japan differ significantly from those in many other countries. In Japan, it's not common to tip for services such as those provided in bars, cafes, restaurants, taxis, and hotels. However, there is a custom in Japan of giving a gratuity, called ""kokorozuke"", (coming from the heart), in some situations.

There are certain situations where tipping might be considered appropriate. For instance, if you've engaged a private guide or interpreter accustomed to overseas practices, they may accept a tip as a gesture of gratitude. It's worth noting that tipping is not expected and should be done discreetly, even in these cases. If you do decide to offer a gratuity, it is customary to put it in an envelope. You can purchase small cash envelopes at convenience stores, stationery stores, or 100 yen stores.

International Tourist Tax

Visitors to Japan pay a 1,000 yen departure tax to expand and enhance the country's tourist infrastructure—a small tax that will make a significant difference.

For more information about International Tourist tax, visit the pages below:
National Tax Agency
The leaflet for individuals departing from Japan, June 2018

Drinking Water

While bottled water is readily available all over Japan—including in the infinite vending machines—the tap water is perfectly safe to drink.

As well as the numerous vending machines, all convenience stores stock bottles of water in various sizes. If you eat in a restaurant, most places offer tap water for no extra charge. Just ask the staff. In fact, tap water is a source of pride for many of Japan's mountainous regions as cool, clean water is a product of the surrounding peaks. Make sure to try some if you find yourself in these areas.

It is important to keep hydrated during your travels, especially in the summer. If you are not used to the humidity—and even if you are—it can be very easy to suffer from dehydration. Sports drinks packed full of minerals are a good way to stay hydrated, but drink plenty of water too. Make sure to keep some water with you at all times.

Can I pay by Zelle?

Yes!

We started taking Zelle payments last month and we found this to be a fast and FREE way to pay!
For those who don’t know what Zelle is… it is very much like a wire transfer (but it is not a wire transfer).

Everyone’s bank is different, though, so you may want to call/go in to your local bank and ask to have the maximum amount available to transfer every day.

Example: Some banks only allow $500/day transfer. Other banks will allow $1200/day.

Always be careful when making payments through Zelle to people that you do not know. There is no protection guarantee provided and you cannot reverse the fee.

The Pros for using Zelle:

• It is FREE (no processing fees)!

• It is instantaneous (funds will go directly to Zone Travel- so this is the absolute fastest way to make a payment)

The Cons for using Zelle:

• Every bank is different when it comes to maximum amount available to be transferred every day. So, this may mean that you need to make multiple payments to Zone Travel, multiple days in a row.

• It does require an app download onto your phone, and you need to set up your account with your bank information.

Can I pay by check?

Yes!

If you would like to avoid the 4%processing fees, you may pay by check.
It is very important that you pay in advance of the deadlines and allow ample time for delivery.

Payments received after the deadline could result in cancelation of your reservation or increased fees.

There are two ways to pay by check:

• Mail the check

• Deposit directly at a local branch

Travel Insurance

TRAVEL INSURANCE - AVAILABLE FOR ALL USA CITIZENS - DUE WITH INITIAL PAYMENT

Zone Travel LLC strongly suggests purchasing Trip Cancellation insurance. Be sure to check with your healthcare provider as most U.S. medical coverage will not cover you outside of the country.

Insurance costs are based on the total package cost, including air taxes and charges listed under "Included."

Approximate amounts can be given at time of reservation in order to purchase the appropriate amount of insurance.

PLEASE NOTE: The following provides general descriptions and does not guarantee coverage.

Each plan is unique, and your personalized quote will include detailed information
regarding the specific coverage and terms of your selected plan.

WORLDWIDE TRIP PROTECTOR ESSENTIAL PLAN:

• Pre-existing Medical Conditions coverage if purchased within 14 days of deposit (other eligibility conditions must also be met)

• Wide range of reasons for trip cancellation or interruption

• Trip Delay and Missed Connection coverage

• Baggage Protection and Travel Accident Protection

• Medical and Evacuation coverage

WORLDWIDE TRIP PROTECTOR DELUXE PLAN:

• Pre-existing Medical Conditions coverage if purchased within 14 days of deposit (other eligibility conditions must also be met)

• Wide range of reasons for trip cancellation or interruption

• Trip Delay and Missed Connection coverage

• Baggage Protection and Travel Accident Protection

• Medical and Evacuation coverage

 WORLDWIDE TRIP PROTECTOR PLATINUM PLAN:

• Pre-existing Medical Conditions coverage if purchased within 21 days of deposit (other eligibility conditions must also be met)

• Wide range of reasons for trip cancellation or interruption

• Trip Delay and Missed Connection coverage

• Baggage Protection and Travel Accident Protection

• Medical and Evacuation coverage