Japan is a country filled with breathtaking landscapes, deep cultural history, and incredible hospitality. When I decided to send my elderly parents on a trip to Japan from New Zealand, I knew it had to be a perfectly organized journey—one that was both exciting and comfortable for them. At 75 years old, they needed more than just a regular tour; they needed a company that would take care of every detail, provide English-speaking assistance, and ensure they felt safe and comfortable throughout the trip.
After extensive research, I discovered Japan Travel Assist (Layover Tour Narita Haneda Tokyo), a travel company in Japan that specializes in custom tours and assistance for international travelers. What caught my attention was their focus on personalized service, English-speaking guides, and full support for travelers of all ages. From the moment we contacted them, I knew this was the right company for my parents’ adventure.
Planning the Perfect Trip for My Parents
One of my biggest concerns was making sure my parents didn’t have to worry about anything—language barriers, transportation, accommodations, or navigating Japan’s complex rail and city systems. Japan Travel Assist (Layover Tour Narita Haneda Tokyo) took care of everything.
• They helped create a personalized itinerary based on my parents’ interests.
• They arranged comfortable accommodations in hotels that were senior-friendly.
• They provided an English-speaking guide who traveled with them and helped with any communication needs.
• They arranged a private vehicle for long-distance travel, ensuring comfort and convenience.
This level of detail and attention reassured me that my parents were in good hands.
The Grand Tour of Japan
The trip began in Tokyo, where my parents were warmly greeted by a representative from Japan Travel Assist. The guide spoke fluent English, making it easy for my parents to communicate and feel at ease. After a night in a comfortable hotel, they set off on a grand tour across Japan by car.
Exploring Kyoto and Japan’s Historic Cities
The first major destination was Kyoto, the heart of traditional Japan. My parents were enchanted by the ancient temples, the peaceful Zen gardens, and the famous geisha district of Gion. They visited Fushimi Inari Shrine, with its thousands of bright red torii gates, and spent time exploring the golden beauty of Kinkaku-ji Temple.
From Kyoto, the journey continued to Nara, where they were delighted to meet the friendly, free-roaming deer in Nara Park. They also visited Todaiji Temple, home to one of the world’s largest bronze Buddha statues.
Next, they traveled to Hiroshima, where they visited the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, a deeply moving experience. They learned about Japan’s history and resilience, which left a lasting impact on them.
The Beauty of Japan’s Countryside
One of the best parts of the trip was the opportunity to explore Japan’s countryside and natural landscapes. My parents were taken to Hakone, where they soaked in a traditional Japanese onsen (hot spring) with a stunning view of Mount Fuji. This was a completely new experience for them, and they couldn’t stop talking about how relaxing and rejuvenating it was.
They also visited Takayama, a charming town in the Japanese Alps known for its well-preserved Edo-period streets and stunning mountain scenery. Here, they experienced traditional Japanese hospitality in a beautiful ryokan (a Japanese inn), where they enjoyed a multi-course kaiseki meal.
From there, they traveled to Kanazawa, known for its stunning gardens and samurai heritage. Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s most famous landscape gardens, was a highlight of their visit.
Returning to Tokyo and a Special Request
After their extensive journey across Japan, my parents returned to Tokyo for a few days of rest and exploration. They visited iconic landmarks such as the Shibuya Crossing, the Meiji Shrine, and the historic Asakusa district, where they explored the famous Sensō-ji Temple and enjoyed traditional Japanese street food.
Just when we thought the trip couldn’t get any better, my parents expressed a special request: they wanted to visit a small, remote island off the coast of Tokyo to experience a different side of Japan.
I thought this would be difficult to arrange, but Japan Travel Assist made it happen.
A Journey to Hachijō-jima: The Hidden Island Paradise
With only one free day left in their schedule, Japan Travel Assist arranged a last-minute trip to Hachijō-jima, a volcanic island located about 300 kilometers south of Tokyo. This was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that my parents would never have been able to arrange on their own.
Hachijō-jima is a breathtaking island known for its lush greenery, hot springs, and dramatic coastal cliffs. Unlike the busy cities of Japan, this island felt like an untouched paradise.
• My parents explored Hachijō Fuji, a dormant volcano with hiking trails and panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.
• They visited Mihara Beach, a stunning black sand beach formed by volcanic activity.
• They relaxed in Miharashi Onsen, an outdoor hot spring with an oceanfront view—a perfect way to unwind before heading back to Tokyo.
They were amazed by the island’s beauty and the fact that even such a remote trip could be arranged so effortlessly. Japan Travel Assist handled everything—flights, transport, and a local guide—to ensure that my parents had the best possible experience.
Why GPN Travel Assist Was the Perfect Choice
Looking back, I can confidently say that choosing Japan Travel Assist was the best decision I made for my parents’ trip. Their professionalism, attention to detail, and ability to accommodate special requests made this journey truly unforgettable.
Here’s why I highly recommend them:
1. English-Speaking Guides – Communication was seamless, which is crucial for travelers who don’t speak Japanese.
2. Customized Itineraries – The trip was designed specifically for my parents’ interests and comfort.
3. Hassle-Free Travel – From hotels to transportation, everything was taken care of.
4. Senior-Friendly Services – They made sure my parents were comfortable at all times.
5. Flexibility – Even last-minute requests, like the trip to Hachijō-jima, were arranged perfectly.
A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience
When my parents returned to New Zealand, they couldn’t stop talking about how incredible their trip to Japan was. They were amazed by the beauty of the country, the kindness of the people, and the incredible service provided by Japan Travel Assist.
For anyone planning to send their elderly parents or loved ones on a trip to Japan, I cannot recommend Japan Travel Assist enough. They truly went above and beyond to ensure that my parents had a stress-free, enjoyable, and unforgettable experience.
Japan is a country that deserves to be explored, no matter your age, and with the right travel assistance, anyone can experience its wonders comfortably and safely.
