Scrutinise the Day-by-Day Itinerary
The glossy brochure will list famous sights like Mount Fuji, Senso-ji Temple, and maybe even a bullet train ride. However, the devil is in the details. Look at the travel time between cities. A packed schedule might mean you spend more time on a bus than
exploring. How much 'free time' is actually included? Some tours are so tightly scheduled that you won't have a moment to wander into a local shop or enjoy a coffee. Check if the itinerary involves very early morning starts every day, which can be exhausting over a 9 or 10-day trip. A good itinerary balances guided tours with personal time.
Understand Every Inclusion and Exclusion
IRCTC packages are generally marketed as all-inclusive, covering flights, hotels, and transfers. But it is crucial to read the fine print. Are all meals included, or just breakfast and dinner? Lunch is often left out, which adds to your daily expenses. Similarly, check if entrance fees to all specified monuments and attractions are part of the package. Optional tours, like a traditional tea ceremony or a specific museum visit, will almost always cost extra. Also, verify if tips for guides and drivers are included or if you will be expected to pay them at the end of the tour.
Verify Accommodation and Location
The package will likely promise stays in 3-star or 4-star hotels. This can be a broad category. Don't hesitate to ask for the names of the hotels or, at the very least, their locations. A hotel on the outskirts of a major city like Tokyo or Kyoto might be comfortable, but it can severely limit your options during free evenings, costing you extra in time and money for transport to the city centre. A quick search for reviews of the specified hotels can provide valuable insight into their quality and service, ensuring there are no unpleasant surprises upon arrival.
Clarify the Visa Application Process
Most IRCTC international packages include visa charges and assistance. However, 'assistance' can mean different things. Confirm whether IRCTC will handle the entire submission process or simply provide you with the necessary paperwork to apply yourself. Indian citizens require a pre-approved visa for Japan, and the process involves submitting documents like bank statements and proof of employment. Understand the timeline and your responsibilities. If, for any reason, your visa is rejected, you need to know the financial implications and how it affects the tour's cancellation policy.
Check Flight Details and Baggage Allowance
The convenience of a package tour begins with the flight. Recent IRCTC Japan tours have used carriers like All Nippon Airways and Air India. Check which airline is scheduled for your tour. Are the flights direct, or do they involve long layovers? Also, confirm the baggage allowance for both check-in and cabin luggage, as this can vary between international carriers. On-ground transportation is just as important. The itinerary might mention a ride on the famous Shinkansen (bullet train), but most of the travel will likely be by coach. Confirm if the coaches are air-conditioned and what the expected group size is.
Review the Payment and Cancellation Policy
This is perhaps the most critical check. Understand the payment schedule. IRCTC often requires an initial deposit, with the full amount due at least 30 days before departure. Carefully read the cancellation and refund rules. These policies are typically tiered based on how far in advance you cancel. Last-minute cancellations often result in a significant forfeiture of the tour cost. Ensure you have a clear understanding of the terms for refunds in case of tour cancellation by either party, and ask about any additional charges like TCS (Tax Collected at Source) that might apply.
