Frequently Asked Questions

What is Kansai Local Tours?

Kansai Local Tours offers private, personalized tours throughout the Kansai region. We are passionate about sharing the beauty, history, and culture of Japan with visitors, creating unique experiences tailored to your interests. If you want to learn more about us, click here.

Do your tours include a private vehicle?

Our tours typically use Japan's efficient and reliable public transportation system, which is both cost-effective and environmentally friendly. If you prefer a private vehicle, we can arrange one upon request, but please note that this will significantly increase the overall cost of the tour. We encourage the use of public transportation to keep your experience both affordable and authentic.

How much does it cost?

Our pricing is flexible and depends on factors such as the number of participants, duration of the tour, and the destinations you choose. We offer a range of options to suit your preferences and budget. For more details, please refer to each individual tour.

What are the payment methods? Is an advance payment required?

To confirm your reservation, we require a 15% deposit of the total tour price. You can pay this deposit using any of the following methods:

• Credit card (via Stripe)

• PayPal

• Bank transfer to a Revolut or Wise account

The remaining balance can be paid as follows:

• In cash on the day of the tour (recommended to avoid transaction fees)

• Or, if you prefer, you may also pay the balance in advance by card, PayPal, or bank transfer. Please note that these methods incur a fee (5%), which is the responsibility of the client.

The deposit helps us secure your booking and begin preparing your experience in advance. Since we reserve the day exclusively for you, it also represents a mutual commitment to attend the tour.

I’m interested in the Kobe and Himeji tour, but I’m staying in Kyoto. Can I still do this tour?

Yes, absolutely! We can arrange the Kobe and Himeji tour even if you're staying in Kyoto. Just let us know your location, and we’ll help you plan accordingly. This is also true when you're staying in a different city and planning to travel to another location.

Do you offer ship excursions?

Yes, we do! If you're arriving by cruise, we can arrange a shore excursion that fits your schedule and interests.

Can we shorten the tour? Can I make it personalized?

We can customize the tour to fit your preferences, whether it’s shortening the itinerary or focusing on specific destinations. Simply let us know which places you’d like to visit, and we’ll send you a personalized plan.

Will you meet us at the hotel and take us back after the tour?

Yes, we can meet you at your hotel and drop you off afterward. Please mention this in the special requests or notes section of the tour form when booking.

I have food restrictions or physical limitations. Can the tour accommodate these?

We’re happy to accommodate food or physical restrictions. Please provide details in the special requests or notes section when you book your tour, and we’ll adjust accordingly.

How can I contact you?

You can reach us by phone at +81-90-5600-4601 or +81-70-9195-3725, via email at info@kansailocaltours.com, or through our contact form here. We’re always happy to assist with any questions you may have.

How far in advance should I book my tour?

To ensure availability, we recommend booking your tour at least 1-2 weeks in advance. However, feel free to contact us for last-minute inquiries as we may still be able to accommodate you.

What if it rains or the weather is bad on the day of the tour?

The tour will go ahead even if it rains lightly. In the case of moderate rain, we’ll adapt the itinerary to include more covered or indoor locations.
Only in cases of truly adverse or dangerous conditions (such as typhoons, official weather alerts, flooding, or major transportation disruptions), we will work with you to:

• Reschedule the tour, or

• Provide a refund if rescheduling is not possible.

Please note that cancellations due to light rain, personal discomfort, or preference are not considered valid reasons for a refund or rescheduling.

Force Majeure (with documentation)

If you are unable to attend the tour due to serious circumstances, we will refund 100% of the deposit (minus bank fees), provided you can supply appropriate documentation. This includes:

• Flight or cruise cancellations

• Hospitalization or serious illness

• Natural disasters (earthquakes, typhoons, etc.)

• Port closures in the case of cruise passengers

Can we arrange a tour that includes multiple cities in a single day?

Yes, we can plan a multi-city tour depending on the proximity of the cities and the time available. For example, visiting Kyoto and Nara or Kobe and Himeji in one day is possible.

How many people can join the tour?

We can accommodate from one person to a small group of 8 people in one tour. Whether it’s a solo tour or a family/friends group, we’ll tailor the experience to fit your group size.

Can I book multiple tours on consecutive days?

You’re welcome to book tours over multiple days. We’ll help ensure each tour offers a unique experience without repeating destinations.

What happens if I can’t attend the tour? Is there a cancellation policy?

We understand that plans can change. That’s why we’ve created a clear and balanced cancellation policy that protects both our guests and us, as small local guides who prepare each tour in a personalized way.

Voluntary cancellations (by the client)

The following conditions apply if you cancel for personal or logistical reasons:

• More than 30 days in advance: You will receive a 100% refund of the deposit paid, minus any applicable bank transfer fees.

• Cancellations between 3 and 30 days in advance: The deposit is non-refundable but can be used to reschedule the tour for another date (one time only, subject to availability).

• Less than 3 days (72 hours) in advance or no-show: This is considered a final cancellation with no refund or rescheduling option. If you do not show up for the tour and have not paid in advance, we reserve the right to decline future bookings unless the pending amount is paid in full beforehand.

What if I want to book multiple tours?

The same system applies: we only require a 15% deposit based on the total cost of all selected tours to block the dates for you.

You can book multiple tours in any of the following ways:

• Contact Form

• Phone (WhatsApp or call): +81 090 5600 4601

• Email: info@kansailocaltours.com