“Only ‘price difference divided by number of days’ tells the real story!” Even with a Japan group tour, you can still enjoy great value for money.

In recent years, Japan has become a popular travel destination for Taiwanese, thanks to its convenient transportation and diverse cuisine. Even traveling alone is easy. However, both independent travel and group tours have their pros and cons. So, in the midst of the independent travel boom to Japan, how can you choose a Japan trip that offers high value for money? The travel comparison website Funtime has compiled the following key points to help you avoid the hassle of navigating subways and maps, while also saving money on your trip to Japan!

Nagoya Castle was the stronghold of the Owari Domain during the Edo period. The current large and small keeps were rebuilt after being destroyed in the air raids of 1945. The site is now Nagoya Castle Park. (Photo courtesy of this newspaper)

%The number of people is key

Traveling with a tour group means moving around with a large group, which may even include elders and children. As a result, the number of people can affect time wasted on gathering, eating, or using restrooms, and the larger the group, the harder it is for the tour guide to take care of everyone.

One thing to note when traveling to Japan is that most Japanese tour groups are formed with 16 to 20 people. However, there are also groups for fewer than 10 people, and even private 2-person tours with a dedicated tour manager. Prices will vary, so you can choose based on your needs.

The "Shrine Torii on the Rocks" at Oarai Isosaki Shrine faces the Pacific Ocean to the east. It is one of the few shrine torii gates built on offshore reefs. Many photography enthusiasts come here early to wait for the sunrise over the sea. (Photo courtesy of this newspaper)

The history of raising Ibaraki Prefecture’s specialty, black-haired wagyu beef known as “Hitachigyu,” dates back to the 19th century under the Mito Domain lord Tokugawa Nariaki. Hitachigyu is raised and fattened for about 30 months, and is graded B4 or above. The even distribution of marbling can be seen in the flank meat shown in the photo. (Photo courtesy of this newspaper)

%Choosing the right itinerary is key to a good experience

Budget is always a concern when traveling abroad, and choosing a tour group also involves considering your wallet. Sometimes a difference of a few thousand dollars can make it hard to decide. It’s recommended to use the “price difference divided by number of days” method to calculate the extra cost per day. Usually, the price differences in tour groups come from optional activities, accommodation and meals, and travel dates. But since it’s not every day you get to travel abroad, follow your heart when making the choice. It’s okay if the destination you want to go to is a bit more expensive—after all, such opportunities are rare and the memories are priceless!

Avoiding peak travel times in Japan is the best approach!(Image/Funtime Travel Comparison)

%Choosing the right travel season is important

Japan has different scenic attractions throughout the year that draw large crowds. In spring, people go for cherry blossoms; in summer, for lavender; in autumn, for maple leaves; and in winter, for hot springs and skiing. There’s also the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route’s Snow Wall for a spectacular view. Flight tickets are often hard to come by, and missing the season means waiting until next year. Everyone waits for the flower season forecasts to book tours early. It’s advised to book your Japan trip well in advance—you can snag early bird discounts and won’t miss out on beautiful sights!

In Taiwan, although long holidays during festivals allow for happy travels, you inevitably face the annoyance of crowded places and traffic jams, which can really dampen your mood. So, before traveling to Japan, besides paying attention to peak travel seasons, it’s also recommended to avoid Japanese public holidays. Otherwise, facing long queues, traffic congestion, and crowded spaces during your rare overseas trip can be quite uncomfortable!

Like in Taiwan, if a Japanese holiday falls on a weekend, it will be postponed to Monday. If the holiday is on a Tuesday, Monday will also be a flexible holiday. Friends who dislike crowds should pay attention to this. Also, many people look forward to celebrating New Year's abroad, but the editor would like to remind everyone that many shops in Japan are closed after New Year's. Those looking to shop extensively should take this into consideration!

%Choosing the right tour operator is key

Most tour groups start selling their packages 3 to 6 months before the departure date, and the itineraries are usually released within the first 3 months. If you plan to visit Japan during peak seasons such as the flower season, holidays, or Chinese New Year, it’s essential to choose and book your tour group early. The number of Taiwanese travelers to Japan every year is beyond imagination, especially during cherry blossom season, summer vacation, and the autumn foliage season. Travel agencies launch early bird promotions with great deals, and if you don’t act fast, you might miss out!

%Ensuring your tour group departs is key

Traveling to Japan during the off-season means you don’t have to worry about not finding a tour group or having to wait for a spot. But it’s still wise to prioritize tour groups that “guarantee departure” to ensure you don’t end up in the unfortunate situation of having your trip canceled.

%Finding high-value tour groups

The biggest difference between joining a tour group and traveling independently is that tour group prices are fixed—they don’t fluctuate based on when you book, unlike independent travel where booking flights and accommodations a few hours later could mean significantly higher prices. In comparison, joining a tour group can be quite cost-effective!

Additionally, travel expos are always packed with people. Every year, they offer many discounts. Nowadays, travel agencies offer the same promotions both in-person and online. Exclusive deals are even available on-site, so take advantage of them!