Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hidden Japan Travel?

Hidden Japan Travel is a fully licensed, local, tour operator that offers travel adventures on Shikoku. We use our local knowledge to ensure our customers have unique experiences.

Is Hidden Japan Travel licensed?

Yes, we are. Our details are as follows: 愛媛県知事登録旅行業第2-206号. Our license allows us to run tours all over Japan, but we like to focus on the island of Shikoku. Luckily for us, this is an area of exceptional beauty that we know intimately. We wouldn’t want to operate tours anywhere else!

We are also members of All Nippon Travel Agants Association.

Do you offer regular tours?

Yes, we do. You can see tour dates on the webpage of the tour you are interested in. Alternatively, drop us an email or get in touch via social media. If you can’t make one of the tour dates, get in touch and we can check the availability of your dates.

I’m interested in a cycling tour. How fit do I have to be?

It really depends on the cycling tour…we have tours for all levels of fitness and even have e-bikes if you need a bit of extra help on the hills. If you unsure at all, get in touch and we can chat about it. And of course, if you are at all unsure we recommend you consult a medical professional prior to booking.

How far in advance do I need to book?

Our tours fill up quickly, so it’s best to book ahead to avoid disappointment. This is particularly the case with tours over Golden Week, Silver Week, and during cherry blossom season. However, we also know the importance of spontaneity! So get in contact with us if you’re doing things last minute, and we’ll see what we can do.

I want to do the Shimanami Tour. How do I get to Onomichi Station?

There are two stations in Onomichi. One is served by the Shinkansen, and the other operates local trains to and from Hiroshima in the west and Okayama in the east. We meet guests near JR Onomichi station. For information about getting to this station, please look here

Can you arrange our travel outside of Ehime?

Absolutely! We love Ehime and Shikoku, but we can organise tours in any parts of Japan. If you want us to plan your entire tour of Japan, get in touch!

Can you provide a guide for the Shimanami Tour?

Yes, we have some great English-speaking local Japanese guides. They’re amazing!

What do I do with my luggage?

For our multiday tours, we collect your luggage at the start and deliver it to your hotel each night. It will be waiting for you in your room when you arrive. Simply drop it off at reception when you check out and we’ll take care of it. On the final day, we return your luggage at the designated meeting point.

Can I validate my Japan Rail Pass in Ehime?

Yes, you can do it at Matsuyama station. It is not possible to do it at Imabari station.

What happens if I have a problem with my bike?

We check the bikes very carefully to make sure that they are in excellent condition; however, we recognise that sometimes things go wrong. We provide you with a spare tyre and a repair kit so those who feel comfortable repairing a flat tyre, can. We’re also close by and will be with you as quickly as possible if you do have a problem.

I’m a vegetarian, do you have food options for me?

Yes, no problem. Please indicate this when booking the tour. We will inform our accommodation partners.

I can’t eat certain foods, what should I do?

Yes, no problem.

Please indicate this when booking the tour. We will inform our accommodation partners of any food allergies. For lunch, we can provide a written description of your food allergy for you to show to any shop keeper.

Will I need to tip people?

No, tipping is not common practice in Japan. Just a smile and a handshake should make the hotel staff feel like they’ve done a good job.

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