Terms & Conditions

Please read the following terms and conditions carefully before making a booking. These terms apply to all 1-day experiences offered by Rural Japan. Where a programme page specifies additional or different conditions, those conditions shall take precedence.

Rural Japan — 1-Day Experiences

Payment

Full payment is required in advance. Payment may be made by credit card (Square) or bank transfer. For bank transfer enquiries, please contact us via the enquiry form.

A non-refundable deposit of ¥5,000 per person is included in the total fee and is retained in all cases.

All prices are quoted in Japanese Yen (JPY). For bank transfers, any associated banking charges are to be borne by the participant, ensuring the full amount in JPY is received in our account.

For reservation deadlines, please refer to the relevant programme page.

Cancellation Policy

As commitments to our local hosts and experts are made immediately upon booking, the non-refundable deposit of ¥5,000 per person is retained in all cases.

Cancellation fees are calculated based on the number of days before the experience date (Japan Standard Time):

— 30+ days before: non-refundable deposit only

— 20–29 days before: 20% of total fee

— 14–19 days before: 30% of total fee

— 7–13 days before: 40% of total fee

— 3–6 days before: 50% of total fee

— 2 days before: 70% of total fee

— 1 day before or same day: 100% of total fee

Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended. Absence of travel insurance shall under no circumstances lead to liability for the organising company.

Where the programme page specifies distinct cancellation conditions, those conditions shall take precedence over the above.

Force Majeure

In the rare event that the experience must be cancelled due to circumstances beyond our control — including natural disasters, severe weather events, or other extraordinary occurrences recognised under Japanese law — all amounts paid will be returned to you in full. Where possible, we will explore alternative arrangements in your interest.

Changes and Substitutions by the Operator

Our experiences depend on the availability of specific local chefs, hosts, and artisans. While we strive to operate the programme exactly as planned, unforeseen circumstances such as a host's sudden illness may require adjustments. In these rare cases, we reserve the right to substitute with an alternative experience of equal standard and value. Any changes will be communicated transparently and promptly.

Dietary Requirements & Allergies

For programmes that include meals, we are happy to accommodate food allergies, vegetarian, and vegan requirements. As advance preparation of ingredients and recipes is necessary, please inform us at the time of booking.

Inclement Weather

Where an experience takes place outdoors or is weather-dependent, adjustments may be made in response to conditions. In the event of severe weather or natural disaster, we will contact you to discuss rescheduling or a full refund. Further details are provided on the relevant programme page.

What is Not Included

Unless explicitly stated on the programme page, the following are not included:

— Train or public transport tickets to and from the meeting point

— Travel and medical insurance

— Personal expenses such as souvenirs or incidentals

— Beverages other than those served as part of the experience

Programme Page Precedence

Where the programme page for a specific experience contains conditions that differ from these Terms & Conditions, the programme page shall take precedence.

Contact

For late arrivals or transport delays, please contact us directly at info@ruraljapan.co.jp.

Governing Law

These Terms & Conditions are governed by the laws of Japan.