Frequently Asked Questions

What services does The Japan Concierge provide?

The Japan Concierge specialises in designing personalised, bespoke itineraries for discerning travellers seeking an authentic and unique Japanese experience. As a full-service travel agency, we provide comprehensive support, from crafting customised itineraries to arranging flights, accommodations, activities, special events, and transportation.

We offer two distinct service levels: the Bespoke Itinerary and Booking Service, which includes the creation of a tailored itinerary, accommodation arrangements, and optional flight and transfer bookings; and the exclusive Concierge Service, where our dedicated team manages every aspect of your travel, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable journey.

Can The Japan Concierge obtain hard-to-get tickets and reservations?

Yes, through our extensive network, we can access many highly sought-after events. However, these exclusive opportunities are prioritised for our full-service Concierge Service clients. We design these experiences as integral parts of personalised, once-in-a-lifetime itineraries, encompassing premium accommodations and tailored activities.

Why are we called The Japan Concierge?

We provide a white-glove travel service for clients who want assistance with all the complexities of booking a trip to Japan. Our services include arranging airport transfers, booking bullet train tickets, and making reservations at top local restaurants in Tokyo, among other things. We understand that not all clients need this level of service, so we offer a range of service options starting from just finding and booking the best accommodation for your needs.

How does it work?

When you reach out to us, our team will follow up with a few questions via an online form. After receiving your response, we will schedule a face-to-face meeting to discuss some high-level suggestions prepared in advance based on your answers.

During this meeting, we can address any additional needs or requests you may have, as well as your preferred level of service. At this point, we will provide you with a breakdown of our fees for each level of service.

Once we determine the service level you require, we will begin planning your vacation. This process typically takes between 1 to 2 weeks, depending on the specifics of your trip. Following the planning stage, we will present a proposal for you to review and provide feedback. This iterative process may take a few rounds before reaching your complete satisfaction.

Upon your approval of the proposal, we will proceed with making the necessary bookings on your behalf. A 30% deposit will be required at this point to secure the bookings, with the full amount due 60 days before your departure.

What distinguishes The Japan Concierge from online travel agencies or booking platforms?

We specialise in crafting bespoke, comprehensive travel experiences. Unlike online platforms, we provide personalised, in-depth planning, handling every detail from complex logistics to exclusive access, ensuring a seamless and unparalleled journey. Our focus is on delivering authentic, high-end travel, not simply processing bookings

Can The Japan Concierge arrange private, culturally immersive experiences?

Absolutely. We specialise in curating exclusive experiences, such as private tea ceremonies with master practitioners, bespoke culinary journeys with renowned chefs, and access to private cultural events. These experiences are designed to provide an authentic and deeply enriching understanding of Japanese culture.

I don’t need an itinerary - can The Japan Concierge still help me?

Yes! We are a full-service travel agency, so if you know what you want and where to go, we can still help arrange flights and accommodation. We are also happy to provide suggestions and advice if you have any questions.

I have already booked my accommodation can The Japan Concierge still help me?

Yes - while we prioritise comprehensive trip planning requests to ensure our clients enjoy exceptional experiences that encompass accommodations, activities, and dining. We can occasionally extend our Concierge Service to clients who have independently arranged their travel and require assistance with itinerary optimisation.

In which countries does The Japan Concierge operate?

We work with a range of clients from all across the globe. While we operate out of Australia, we service queries from any country, including the United States, Canada, Britain, and Ireland - and closer to home in Singapore and Hong Kong.

Why should I use The Japan Concierge?

We are specialists in all things Japan, with a focus on curating unforgettable travel experiences in the country. Our in-depth knowledge of Japan allows us to provide tailored recommendations based on personal experiences. We've explored and stayed in the very locations we suggest, ensuring that our advice comes from first-hand knowledge. We ensure that our recommendations are based on our understanding of what is important to our clients.

What information should I provide when contacting The Japan Concierge?

To tailor a bespoke trip for you, it helps us to understand your budget, the dates of your trip, the number of travellers, your preferred destination, and any special requests or activities you would like to include.

How long does creating a bespoke itinerary with The Japan Concierge take?

We provide personalised itineraries to suit your travel style and budget, so this varies depending on the complexity of the trip.

We do, however, promise to get back to you within 48 hours of your initial request to schedule a call to introduce ourselves and to get to know you.

How far in advance should I begin planning my trip to Japan with The Japan Concierge?

Due to the bespoke nature of our services and the high demand for exclusive experiences, we recommend beginning the planning process several months in advance, especially for travel during peak seasons

What level of accommodation does The Japan Concierge recommend and arrange?

We specialise in arranging stays at Japan's finest luxury hotels, traditional ryokans, and exclusive private residences. Our recommendations are based on meticulous research and personal experience, ensuring exceptional comfort and service.

What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule my trip?

We understand that plans change, which is why we book flexible travel options wherever possible. We also highly recommend taking out travel insurance to protect against any unforeseen events. The Japan Concierge can arrange your travel insurance as part of our bespoke service.