Best Of

we are going on the May 30th trip this year - please could you advise - as we are on the older side - although active - exactly how much walking is involved daily - and if necessary, can you opt out of strenuous walks?
second question - I also saw no duffle bag - so what is the option - bring a roll on or your own duffel bag? thank you

Concur with Goddess that you always want to request extra days at the Tauck hotel as soon as possible. As long as you haven't made the final tour payment and it turns out you don't need them just call Tauck and have them removed at no cost.

Yes rainy season is fun in Japan. Lived there 2 years and rains would come with little warning. I used to walk between 2 offices a few minutes away and always carried an umbrella for sudden downpours.

Geneobrien. Is this your first Tauck tour? If not, you are entitled to a free pre or post stay at those hotels once you have taken one Tauck tour in the past. You must ask at booking and can add the extra day you mention too, so you can get it at the Tauck price which includes breakfasts. Of course too late now, As mentioned, you might remain in the same room. On land tours we rarely unpack anyway and we use packing cubes so it’s easy. If you want a cheaper hotel, try some of the Japanese hotels which will be cheaper…and no you won’t be sleeping on the futons, there are European style rooms.
There is no need for any tipping in Japan, it is just not their custom and if you try, it’s like an insult to them. It’s a good idea to read about Japanese life as it is nothing like ours. Japan is my favorite country, I’ve been there three times s and would go again in a heartbeat. I hope I can.