Small-Group Japan Tours

Travel Japan in small groups for real connections and authentic encounters

When do you want to travel?

Your gateway to Japan’s most authentic journeys

Backed by over two decades of travel expertise and 80,000 global explorers, Ventura Travel is delighted to bring Japaventura to the UK.

Our thoughtfully curated small-group tours open the door to genuine cultural encounters, trusted guidance, and the comfort of travelling with a brand shaped by passion and integrity.

Discover our guided small-group tours in Japan

Tried and tested

Customer Satisfaction

Japaventura tours have been rated as excellent by travellers

A trusted travel partner for over 2 decades

Over 80,000 people have travelled with Ventura Travel's brands since 2001

Sustainability Certification – TourCert

As a responsible Tour Operator, we are certified by TourCert

What our travellers say

An immersion in Japan, close to everyday realities. Exciting getaways off the beaten track, including stays with locals, in remote locations, or even in a Buddhist temple. A dive into vast metropolises — sometimes sprawling, even impersonal — using public transport. I was fascinated by the social organisation of [the] country…the management of traffic flows, self-discipline in public spaces, and respect for the rules and codes of politeness that structure the daily lives of the Japanese. I particularly enjoyed visiting temples, memorial sites, parks and gardens, as well as discovering the often wild nature of a country whose terrain is predominantly mountainous. (Patrick S. - October 2025)

Truly, this trip from Fukuoka to Tokyo was the trip of a lifetime. Our guide…gave us excellent advice and guidance throughout the trip. All the essentials of Japan were there: the warm atmosphere of Fukuoka, the night in a monastery (an extraordinary sensory experience), the night with a host family (with the sushi-wrap party), Hiroshima, Miyajima and Itsukushima Shrine, Nara and Byodo-in, the history of Kyoto and its superb temples (Fushimi-Inari was my favourite), the village of Takayama, Tokyo…It was an exciting and interesting trip, an extraordinary and super-sensory getaway. On the other hand, yes, you walk a lot, but that's the game, you have to earn your drink and your meal! So I give it a well-deserved 5 stars! (Yoann P. - May 2025)

Why travel with Japaventura?

Travel in good company, not a crowd

With no more than 12 travellers, our journeys feel personal and friendly - the perfect balance of companionship and space

Your trip goes ahead, whatever happens

Once you’ve booked, your departure is guaranteed - no cancellations due to numbers, no uncertainty, just peace of mind

Every detail checked, every experience authentic

Our expert team personally visits and reviews every aspect of each trip, ensuring quality, comfort, and genuine local insight

Book with complete confidence

Your holiday is fully protected under UK Package Travel Regulations, giving you security from the moment you reserve your place

No surprises, no hidden costs

What you see is exactly what you pay - no unexpected extras, just honest value and clear pricing from start to finish

Travel with heart

Every journey supports local communities and meaningful projects, so your travel leaves a positive mark - not just memories

Discover Japan’s Highlights

Finding the right time for you

Japan offers something extraordinary in every season — from spring blossoms and vibrant summer festivals to golden autumn landscapes and serene winter scenery. Discover the best time to travel based on the experiences you love most.

Discover Japan beyond the crowds

We know you prefer to travel at your own pace — not get swept along with the masses. Our carefully crafted journeys reveal the quiet beauty, local charm, and genuine warmth of Japan

Click to see what sets Japaventura tours apart

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Le Japon, une aventure authentique | Japaventura

Upcoming departures

Travelling with Japaventura

Is Japaventura right for me? Japaventura is for travellers who want to experience Japan beyond the obvious, without feeling overwhelmed by logistics or language. Our small groups allow time to understand everyday Japan as well as its icons.

Who tends to enjoy Japaventura most?

First-time visitors to Japan
Travellers interested in culture, food and daily life
Those who want structure without rigidity

Who might prefer a different style? If you want to travel entirely independently, move very quickly or focus purely on luxury accommodation, Japaventura may not be the right fit.

Have questions? Get in touch!

Who are we?

Our team combines travel experts based in the UK with local specialists on the ground in Japan, ensuring every journey is designed with true insight, care, and authenticity.

We’ve explored every corner of the country to craft small-group tours that bring you closer to the real Japan — its people, culture, and timeless beauty. Every itinerary is thoughtfully planned to give you comfort, connection, and unforgettable moments of discovery.

Experience Japan with a team who know it inside and out.

Travel That Transforms

Transform lives, protect forests, and be part of a movement that truly matters

Be a Force for Good — and Help Protect Our Living Planet

Your journey can change the world. Thanks to travellers like you, our charitable foundation has raised over €1 million, supporting 26 community and conservation projects across the globe — from protecting rainforests to empowering local guardians

Our Sister Brands

About Ventura Travel

Ventura Travel is the parent brand of specialist tour operators like Japaventura, responsible for creating small-group, community-based journeys for curious travellers, working directly with local partners and focusing on depth, not mass tourism.

Important

Is my trip protected by ATOL or ABTA?

Upon launch in the UK in early 2026, your trip will be protected by the DRSF. DRSF stands for Deutscher Reisesicherungsfonds (German Travel Security Fund). As a Ventura TRAVEL customer, your payments are protected by DRSF, ensuring your money is safe and you are covered in the unlikely event of insolvency. You will receive a security certificate with your booking for your peace of mind.

To give additional comfort to UK travellers, we aim to be ATOL & ABTA protected by the second quarter of 2026 but the DRSF protection is sufficient under the 2018 UK Package Travel Regulations and has been reviewed and confirmed by our UK legal representatives.

Do your tours include flights?

International flights are not typically included, allowing you flexibility in choosing your preferred airline and schedule. We can assist with flight recommendations if needed.

What is something goes wrong while on my tour?

Your guide is your first escalation point and can usually assist in the majority of circumstances but if you need to escalate an issue that your guide cannot assist with, we offer 24/7 support via phone and email; emergency contact information will be provided in your travel documents.

Do you offer travel insurance or recommend providers for UK travellers?

Travel insurance is not included in our pricing but is strongly recommended.

What is your cancellation and refund policy?

Our cancellation and refund policies are clearly outlined during booking. We offer flexible terms, but details may vary by trip. Please refer to the specific trip page or contact us for more information.

General Questions

What makes Ventura TRAVEL’s group tours different from other UK tour operators?

Ventura Travel offers small-group, expert-led journeys focused on authentic, sustainable experiences. Our tours go beyond mass tourism, supporting local communities and providing unique, in-depth cultural encounters.

Can I customize my group tour or add extra nights?

Yes, on some trips. Where available, we offer options to extend your stay or add pre- and post-tour nights. Let us know your preferences and we’ll help arrange additional services where possible.

How large are your group sizes?

We intentionally keep our groups small to ensure a more personal and immersive experience. The vast majority of our tours have a maximum limit of 12 and on average our tours have around 9 travellers. However a small number of our trips allow up to 16 travellers.

What is included in the price of your group tours?

Our tour prices typically include accommodation, most meals, guided activities, entrance fees, and ground transportation. Specific inclusions are listed on each trip page.

What kind of accommodation do you use on your tours?

We select comfortable, well-located hotels and guesthouses that reflect the local character. Accommodation standards and details are listed on each trip page.