Japan: Seeing My Home Country Through Travelers’ Eyes

When I traveled on Highlights of Japan with Ultimate Break, I had only been working at EF for five months. It was my first time experiencing the product I work directly on, which made it incredibly special. Two moments that stood out were the ryokan stay in Hakone and our visit to Fushimi Inari in Kyoto.

As a Japanese person, I associate ryokans with peaceful getaways, communal baths, multi-course meals, and a quiet break from the city. Experiencing that in a large group setting was unique. I’d never had a kaiseki dinner in such a big hall! Despite the group size, the ryokan managed to deliver the omotenashi spirit of Japanese hospitality beautifully. But the most memorable part? Waking up to a perfect view of Mt. Fuji. The previous day had been cloudy, so catching a clear view first thing in the morning felt like a reward.

Fushimi Inari was another highlight. Even though it’s a well-known site, walking through thousands of vibrant torii gates still felt magical. We even spotted some cats wandering around the shrine grounds, which added a fun and unexpected charm. Some travelers even woke up early the next morning to revisit the site in a quieter setting.

Culture shined through

In Hakone, the group experienced Japanese omotenashi and learned about onsen culture—including the dos and don’ts around tattoos. At Fushimi Inari, they realized the shrine is much more than a photo spot. It’s a place of deep spiritual significance, connected to thousands of shrines across the country. Many practiced the praying techniques they had learned earlier in Tokyo, and some bought protective amulets for loved ones back home. As a local staff member, it was really rewarding to share the cultural meaning behind each experience.

The group connection

I was genuinely surprised by how passionate travelers were about anime and manga. Many had learned about Japanese food, language, and even geography through these mediums. As someone who only consumed anime as a kid, it was eye-opening to see how deeply it shaped their understanding and excitement for visiting Japan.

Even though I didn’t go anywhere new, seeing Japan through the eyes of first-time visitors was incredibly meaningful. As someone who works behind the scenes to build these experiences, being part of the group brought it full circle. About a third of our group were solo travelers, but by the end of the trip everyone, including me, had made new friends.

Being in a group added fresh perspectives and challenged how we each experienced the culture. It was also just nice not having to think about logistics or planning. Everything was taken care of, so we could focus on enjoying the tour together.

First time in Japan? This trip’s for you.

This 14-day itinerary is ideal for first-time visitors. It covers many of Japan’s must-see cities and experiences without the stress of navigating language, transport, or accommodations on your own. With our team of knowledgeable and caring Tour Directors, you’re supported every step of the way. You’ll not only hit the highlights, but also get local tips for how to make your free time meaningful.