I would like to arrange for my in-laws to go on a tour of Japan in the next year or two as a surprise gift, and was wondering if anyone could recommend a few tour companies. It would be great if it was geared toward japanese-americans, especially older (though quite mobile) ones. I'm thinking that the trip would be about 10 days long, and would cover the major cities. Any suggestions would be appreciated!

Thanks!

H.E. Welcome to Slow Travel Talk.

That's an amazing gift. Unfortunately, I have no personal experience with tour groups to Japan, but my parents have done several tours with Tauck and swear by them. They do offer this tour of Japan: Essences of Japan. They are quite high-end (read pricey) though and I'm sure there must be others at other price points but I just wanted you to know that if I could swing it, I wouldn't hesitate to book a tour with them for my parents.

One option to consider is Exploritas, formerly Elderhostel. Here is a link to their main site, you can quickly search for Japan.

This group serves people 50 (or is it 55?) and older. We have participated in 3 or 4 of their programs, generally of good quality. Participants will be from North America.

Dear h.e. - I don't know where your in laws live, but I know that quite a few tours leave from Hawaii. Since there's such a high percentage of Japanese-Americans living there, the possibilities are pretty good of finding the right tour. Just google "Japan tours from Hawaii"...you could always call or email them. Good luck.