Flamingo Travels’ Simply Japan 7 Nights tour promises an immersive journey through Japan’s vibrant culture, iconic landmarks, and culinary delights. We booked this Japan Tour Package to explore whether it lives up to the hype. Here’s our honest review of the experience, from booking to the final farewell, to help you decide if it’s worth your time and money.
Booking and Pre-Trip Experience
The booking process with Flamingo Travels was seamless, as advertised on their website. The Simply Japan 7 Nights package, priced competitively, includes flights, visas, hotels, select meals, and guided sightseeing, making it an attractive option for first-time visitors to Japan. A Rs. 50,000 initial deposit was required to confirm the booking, with clear communication about the Tax Collected at Source (TCS) policy—5% for spends up to Rs. 7 Lakhs and 20% beyond that, non-refundable upon cancellation.
The team at Flamingo’s Ahmedabad office was responsive, providing detailed itineraries and visa assistance. However, we recommend keeping a photocopy of your passport handy, as advised, for smooth travel. One minor hiccup was the lack of clarity on daily schedules until closer to the departure date, which could be improved for anxious travelers.
Itinerary and Destinations
The Japan Tour Package covers Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, blending modern and traditional experiences. In Tokyo, we visited iconic spots like Shibuya Crossing and the serene Meiji Shrine. Osaka’s highlights included the vibrant Dotonbori district and Osaka Castle, while Kyoto offered a cultural deep dive with visits to Kinkaku-ji Temple and Fushimi Inari Shrine’s famous torii gates.
The itinerary was well-paced, balancing city exploration with cultural immersion. A standout was the optional onsen experience, which allowed us to soak in Japan’s traditional hot springs—a relaxing highlight after long sightseeing days. However, some travelers might find the long walks from parking areas to attractions tiring, as noted in Flamingo’s travel tips. Bringing comfortable shoes and an umbrella (for Japan’s unpredictable weather) was a lifesaver.
Accommodations and Meals
Hotels were comfortable, centrally located, and clean, though some lacked the tea and coffee sachets we’re used to. Flamingo’s promise of Indian-friendly meals was a major plus for our group, especially for vegetarians. Familiar spices and timely meals made dining a comforting experience, though we wished for more local Japanese cuisine options to enhance the cultural immersion. For tea lovers, pack your favorite Indian tea packets, as local options often lack creamer and sugar.
Guided Tours and Support
The guided tours were a highlight, with knowledgeable local guides who brought Japan’s history and culture to life. Flamingo’s 24/7 on-tour support was reassuring, especially when navigating language barriers. However, the itinerary felt slightly rigid at times, with limited flexibility for spontaneous exploration. Anime fans in our group were disappointed that this package didn’t include anime-specific stops, unlike Flamingo’s Japan Anime Special tour.
Value for Money
Was the Simply Japan 7 Nights tour worth it? For first-time travelers seeking a hassle-free experience, the answer is a resounding yes. The package’s inclusions—flights, visas, hotels, and Indian meals—offer excellent value, especially for families or groups. However, seasoned travelers might crave more flexibility or unique experiences like those in Flamingo’s Japan Cultural Tour or Japan Alpine Tour.
Final Verdict
Flamingo Travels delivers a well-organized, culturally rich Japan Tour Package that caters to Indian travelers’ needs. While minor improvements in itinerary flexibility and meal variety could elevate the experience, the Simply Japan 7 Nights tour is a solid choice for exploring Japan’s highlights with comfort and ease. If you’re looking for a stress-free introduction to Japan, this tour is worth considering.
For more details, visit Flamingo Travels or contact their team at +91 98250 81806.