Essence of Japan November 2026
Hello All, Very excited to finally be going to Japan.
We opted for the fall, hoping to see color but less crowds. I am looking for clothing tips, I already have heard about the shoes (slip in Sketchers recommended) since shoes are frequently taken off. I am assuming some light rain and maybe some chill.... Any feedback or suggestions on that?
We are also looking for tips on what to do on our first day in Tokyo. Shopping, restaurants, and general interesting places to see that Tauck is not doing on our first full days with the group.
We are doing the small group tour and will be at the Shangri-La Tokyo. Day and 2 and 3 take us to the major sites in Tokyo. Any other fun suggestions on what to explore on day 1 before the group dinner?
Also, Love to hear any other highlights we should take advantage of or fun, cool places you happened to discover in your free time along the rest of the trip!
Thank you All!
Comments
My husband and I took this tour mid-October two years ago, and I did post a trip report on this forum. I think outer wear is important, and we did have some some chilly weather and rain. We both brought good rain coats with hoods, also a fleece for layering. I also had light gloves, which I used once. And we each had a very light rain jacket, also with hood, that can be rolled up and carried in a day bag, as well as a small travel umbrella. We also had warm weather.
Our Tokyo free time included a tour of the Imperial Palace grounds, taking the Metro to and from the Gyoen National Garden, exploring and dining at the nearby train station, Metro to and from the Scramble Crossing area (and dinner there), dinner at a Sukiyaki restaurant in the Ginza area. There are many interesting areas of Tokyo, and I would love to see more on a future trip.
This is a wonderful tour.
I’m on October 26 tour! Question about slip on shoes for the experts: how much walking are you actually doing on the days you visit temple and other places where shoe removal is required? I have slip-ons but they’re NOT ideal for 10,000 step days! If you’re mostly on/off the bus, I could deal but need my good walking shoes for real walking.
Thanks!
My husband and I both wore good walking shoes. We did not bring slip on shoes. I did not mind undying and removing my shoes - there was always somewhere to sit while doing so. There is enough walking on tour, and in free time, that I appreciated having sturdy shoes.
I have some great hands free walking shoes - Orthofeet. Great arch support.