Global Journeys was great! Luxury Gold Tour could be improved 0
George T, NSW, Australia, Mar 2026
The communication and attention to detail from Tracey at Golobal Journeys was excellent. If you are expecting the usual European Luxury Gold standard from this tour you will be disappointed. Some hotels were good, but the others were average. While a double bed was clearly requested, most hotels provided 2 single beds. Many people were looking forward read more to the Bullet Train Rides, but this was a huge disappintment, as we were booked in Economy Class with 3 across seating.
We had to draw lots to see who got the worst seats. While First Class was available for a small extra charge, Luxury Gold thaught this Economy Class Cabin was the way to "Travel in Style". Our guide stated that she had previously requested that First Class seats be provided, but this request has been ignored. We have previously travelled with Luxury Gold in fast trains in Europe and it was always in the highest available class cabin.
Don't expect the usual 40 seat coach with extra leg room. These coaches were poor quality with cramped seats with very little leg room. They even had jump seats in each row (Not used).
There are 3 nights in Sendai where your normal bags are not available. You are expected to carry an overnight bag on the Train. They could very easily send the bags seperately as done previously, but this is another place where they cut corners. The type of people who book Luxury Gold Tours are not Backpackers. They need the comfort of having all their luggage when it is a 3 night stay.
This tour is a Black Mark for Luxury Gold, and is a great disappointment compared to the wonderful tours we have previously done with Luxury Gold.
Good overview of Japan 25
Sheila & Robert, QLD, Australia, Oct 2018
The tour covered a large area of the main island, made possible by most of the travel being on bullet trains and the small group. It was interesting to visit the north of the island rather than just visiting cities. Excellent hotels, guide and at least one included meal every day. Could maybe have been a few days longer to give more free time to read more explore cities etc, and to spend longer in the national park.