Terms & Conditions — Really Rural Japan

Terms and Conditions

Last Updated: September 24, 2026

Really Rural Japan is a tour operator specializing in multi-day self-guided and semi-guided tours, as well as guided day tours that give our guests an authentic, first-hand experience of rural Japan, its landscapes, its communities, and its culture. Our tours are carefully curated trips designed to bring the traditions and natural beauty of the Japanese countryside to life. Really Rural Japan is operated in Nagiso Town, Nagano Prefecture, Japan, along the historic Nakasendo Ancient Road; this is where our Really Rural Japan is genuinely run day to day and where our services are based and delivered. Being here, in rural Japan, is central to who we are and to what we offer. The terms “we”, “us”, “our”, and “Really Rural Japan” refer to Really Rural Japan. The term “you”, “traveler”, “participant” or “guest” refers to the person making a booking with us and all members of their group.

CONTRACT. We draw your attention to the terms and conditions of travel below, these terms and conditions including all brochures, documents, correspondence and the terms and conditions of our Suppliers form the basis of the contract with you (collectively, “Terms and Conditions”). Before making a booking with us you must ensure that you have read and understood these Terms and Conditions (and ask any questions you may have). Please be aware that these Terms and Conditions contain limitations of liability as well as governing law and jurisdiction clauses. By making any payment to Really Rural Japan or participating in any of our travel experiences, you are accepting all of the Terms and Conditions set forth herein (including the Cancellation and Chargeback sections) and acknowledging that you have read the Terms and Conditions of this legally binding agreement and agree with it. If you do not agree with any part of these Terms and Conditions, you must not make a booking with us or pay us in connection with our travel-related services.

If you are making a booking as a group, the leader of the group is responsible for sharing these Terms and Conditions with all members of the group for whom they are making the booking and is financially responsible for the booking. If a travel agent makes the booking on your behalf, the agent is responsible for sharing these Terms and Conditions with you and all the members of the group you are traveling with and is financially responsible for the booking. We will not be liable for a group leader’s and/or travel agent’s failure to share these Terms and Conditions with all travelers in their group.

You represent and warrant that (a) you are of sufficient age to use our services and website and can create binding legal obligations in connection with your use, (b) you are legally authorized to act on behalf of those you represent and accept these Terms and Conditions on their behalf, and (c) the information supplied by you or members of your group is true and correct.

VIOLATIONS BY YOU. You agree that any violation of any such Terms and Conditions may result in (a) the cancellation of your reservation or purchase, (b) your forfeiture of any monies paid for your reservation or purchase, and (c) you being denied access to the applicable travel-related product or service.

CHANGES TO THESE TERMS AND CONDITIONS. Really Rural Japan reserves the right, in our sole discretion, to change these Terms and Conditions at any time. Updated versions of the Terms and Conditions will be posted here, www.reallyruraljapan.com on this website and are effective immediately on posting. Please check frequently, especially before you make a booking, to see if these Terms and Conditions changed. Your continued use of our services, including continuing to use or maintain any bookings after any changes to the Terms and Conditions, constitutes your consent to the changes.

BOOKING/PAYMENT.

Once you are ready to book, simply contact us by filling out the contact information on our website at www.reallyruraljapan.com. We will correspond with you to help you decide on the most desirable tour for you, or if desired, plan a custom tour. If you choose to move forward with a tour, your booking will be confirmed on receipt of the completed booking and payment of your applicable NON-REFUNDABLE deposit as described below. The invoice is subject to change until you receive confirmation that your travel is booked. Deposits and any fees are NON-REFUNDABLE, and you must execute a legally binding payment authorization in connection with your travel purchases.

Multiday Payment Schedule. 20% of the total cost of the tour is due as a NON-REFUNDABLE deposit within two (2) weeks of the effective date the booking(s) is confirmed. After booking is processed you will receive a PDF guidebook and your final itinerary once we have finished writing it (at least sixty (60) days prior to your tour’s start (unless this is a last-minute booking and the process is taking place inside of that 60-day window)) (subject to change as described herein), an invoice with payment information, and other important travel information. The remaining 80% payment is due sixty (60) days prior to the start of the tour. For last-minute bookings processed within sixty (60) days from the start of the tour, the invoice will be due immediately.

Day Tours Payment Schedule. 20% of the total cost of the tour is due as a NON-REFUNDABLE deposit within two (2) weeks of the effective date the booking(s) is confirmed. The remaining 80% is due thirty (30) days prior to the start date of the tour. If the booking is made less than thirty (30) days prior to the start of the tour, the total cost of the tour must be paid at the time of booking. After the booking is confirmed, you will receive an invoice with payment information, and other important travel information.

You must not make any air reservations until you receive confirmation of your booking. Travelers who independently purchase airfare prior to receiving Really Rural Japan’s written booking confirmation, do so at their own risk and are solely liable for any resulting change fees, penalties, or losses related to said booking. You must not make any air reservation until you receive confirmation of your booking. All contracts for airfare is with the carrier and subject to its terms, conditions and policies and we will not be liable for any change fees or cancellation fees or other additional costs you incur with the air carrier.

After booking is processed, we will provide you with instructions regarding payments and all due dates. While Really Rural Japan may send out a payment schedule reminder, traveler is solely responsible for making all payments in full and on time as required by Really Rural Japan. Failure to make any payment may result in the cancellation of your travel. In such a case this would be considered a cancellation by you and the cancellation terms and fees as described below would be in effect.

Really Rural Japan are carefully curated experiences for groups of participants, and as such you will not be able to request or make any changes to your finalized tour itinerary. Our tours are purchased as complete packages, which means you are not entitled to request, and will not be provided with, an itemized breakdown of costs in connection therewith due to the contractual agreements with our Suppliers.

Please review all correspondence and documents carefully and promptly as we will not be responsible for any errors. It is your responsibility to review all travel documentation and alert us within twenty-four (24) hours with any corrections.

PAYMENT METHODS/CHARGEBACKS. Payments will be processed through a secure online system and can be made via major credit cards including Visa, Mastercard, American Express and Discover. Travelers must provide to us a click (checkbox) or signed authorization for every transaction for your trip. Your authorization is a legally binding agreement for us and/or Supplier to charge your card and an acknowledgement and agreement to these Terms and Conditions including the cancellation terms. As such, you agree not to make any improper chargebacks.

In certain cases, you have the ability to dispute charges with credit card companies ("chargebacks"). Before initiating a chargeback, the traveler must contact us concerning any questions or concerns about our charges. We will work with you in attempting to resolve your concerns. Really Rural Japan retains the right to dispute any chargeback that is improper and recover any costs, including attorney’s fees related to improper chargebacks, and to cancel any travel reservation related to that improper chargeback. The following chargeback scenarios are improper, and we retain the right to investigate and rebut the chargeback claims below, including without limitation:

Chargebacks resulting from non-cancellable reservations, whether or not the reservation is used.
Chargebacks resulting from charges authorized by family, friends, associates or other third parties with direct access to your credit card. This does not include credit card fraud.
Chargebacks arising from inconsistency or inaccuracy with regard to the Supplier’s product description.
Chargebacks resulting from force majeure or other circumstances that are beyond the control of Really Rural Japan or the Supplier.
Chargebacks resulting because you do not agree with the cancellation policy.
Chargebacks resulting because you were not provided with an itemized breakdown of costs in connection with your tour.

PRICE AND RATE CHANGES. The price of your itinerary will be based on known costs at the date of issue of the itinerary. All prices we advertise are accurate at the date published, but we reserve the right to change any of those prices from time to time. Prices include a cost for local taxes that are estimated at the date of publication. At the time of booking confirmation, we will provide you with an invoice reflecting the current price.

However, we reserve the right to add a supplement to your travel prices should our costs of supplying your travel increase, until we receive your final payment. Any increase to your travel price will be as the result of circumstances outside of our control, including without limitation changes in our costs of supplying your travel resulting from changes by our Suppliers, dues or taxes payable locally, currency fluctuations and government action. If our costs to supply your travel increase, we reserve the right to increase the price of your travel and will forward a new invoice reflecting any changes made. Subject to the foregoing, after final payment your price is locked in.

We also reserve the right to make changes to and correct errors in advertised prices at any time before your travel is confirmed. We will advise you of any errors of which we are aware, and of the adjustment in price, if any, at the time of your booking.

What’s Included In Your Multiday Tour

All tours are subject to the specific inclusions and exclusions as explicitly outlined in your final itinerary. Subject to the foregoing, tours generally include:

Accommodations

Accommodations are provided as detailed in your itinerary and are based on single occupancy. Special requests such as lower floors, connecting rooms and smoking preference, must be made at the time of booking (as such requests may not be available). While we will make reasonable efforts to communicate your requests to the Supplier, such requests are not guaranteed and are at the discretion of the Supplier. There may be additional charges for such requests which will be solely the expense of the guest making the request. Really Rural Japan reserves the right, if necessary, to substitute other similar accommodations for accommodations listed on your itinerary. Such substitutions may be made at any time and without prior notice. We cannot be held responsible for over-bookings; should such occur, we will undertake to find similar accommodations in the same area. Such substitutions are at Really Rural Japan’s sole discretion, and no refunds will be offered for changes in accommodations. Please note that while we exercise due diligence in the selection of our partners, and several are based on our own personal experiences, some hotel and other accommodation profiles are based on information provided to us by the Supplier. This includes images and descriptions of the properties and rooms. Additionally, travelers should be aware that star ratings or similar systems are based on country classifications and therefore can differ. While Really Rural Japan does its best to maintain current and accurate information regarding these Suppliers, we cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies in Supplier descriptions, amenities, or images.

Knowledgeable Guides. Our Multiday Semi-Guided Tours include the services of knowledgeable guides on the days specified in your itinerary who will accompany you during the tour and provide information, commentary, and guidance regarding the destinations, activities, and experiences included.

Really Rural Japan’s Guidebooks and Welcome Packs

We will provide online materials prior to your trip of a PDF of our guidebook to your destination (featuring maps, walking guides, history, travel advice, and more) and a custom-made itinerary detailing your plans and travel instructions. When you arrive in person, we will also send you a welcome pack. These will include a physical copy of the guidebook and itinerary, as well as any other items necessary for your tour’s logistics and safety.

Transfers

Really Rural Japan is pleased to offer transfers strictly in accordance with your individual itinerary and may be subject to additional fees as described in said itinerary. Except as expressly provided in your itinerary, traveler is solely responsible for transfers to and from airports and all other locations/destinations. You must be on time for all transportation. There will be no refund for missed or unused transfers.

Meals

Meals are included as expressly indicated in the itineraries. Any food and beverages consumed outside of itinerary meals are not included and are at the sole expense of the traveler. For safety and liability reasons, Really Rural Japan and its Representatives cannot be responsible for directly accommodating any food allergies, or dietary requirements and restrictions, and is not responsible for any issues or problems associated with the same. We will advise our Suppliers of your request, but we cannot guarantee their availability.

Sightseeing/Activities/Cultural Experiences

Sightseeing trips and activities are only included as provided in the individual itineraries. Any excursions or activities not included in itineraries and done outside of tour times are at the sole expense of the traveler. These trips and activities are sometimes designed to accommodate group travel. As a courtesy to others in the trip and/or activity, it is mandatory that you be on time for all scheduled experiences. Trips and activities will begin on time and failure to arrive will be considered a no-show for which NO refunds will be available. It is essential that you keep in mind that trip and activity times are set to accommodate climate, crowd size and best viewing options for our groups. At times, early morning departure times may help create a better experience. Therefore, late arrivals cannot be accommodated.

What’s Included In Your Day Tour

Knowledgeable Guides. The Day Tour includes the services of knowledgeable guides who will accompany you during the Day Tour and provide information, commentary, and guidance regarding the destinations, activities, and experiences included in the Day Tour.

Sightseeing/Activities

Changes to Itineraries

Really Rural Japan reserves the right to make changes to its published itineraries which we deem insignificant and are due to reasons beyond our control. In such cases, we will arrange for the substitution of comparable services.

While no changes are anticipated, there may be occasions when certain alterations become necessary. These can be due to religious holidays, national celebrations, or unforeseen events including weather, governmental closures, acts of God, or any other reason. Really Rural Japan reserves the right to change the itinerary due to such unforeseen circumstances or emergencies. Additionally, sites undergo renovations from time to time which can obscure viewing or otherwise change the nature of visiting these sites. No trips will be cancelled due to renovations, although Really Rural Japan may choose to amend itineraries for such sites. These changes will not be considered a material change and will not be considered cause for cancellation by the guest.

If we suggest alternate activities in place of a planned stop or in case of leisure time, such suggestions do not constitute our endorsement. In such a case you will be subject to the terms and conditions of the Supplier of the activity and your only recourse in case of damage will be against the Supplier of the alternate activity.

What’s Not Included

Any items and matters not referred to in your itinerary are not included in the trip price. This can include, but is not limited to items such as flights and airfare (domestic, international or inter-tour) not expressly listed in itinerary, any transportation not specified in your itinerary, checked and/or excess baggage; passport and visa fees; trip protection and/or insurances of all kinds; any donations, gratuities and tips if not listed on your itinerary; laundry; phone calls; minibar; beverages and meals not detailed in the itinerary; optional experiences; souvenirs; and all items of a personal nature. Lunches are not included in our day tours. On a case-by-case basis we book restaurants, and pack lunches for guests when the season, location, or timing demands it. We ask that our guests pay for their own lunches unless otherwise stated in our communications or itinerary. Additional taxes and surcharges may be collected by foreign governmental and non-governmental entities. The price does not cover costs and expenses, including your return home, if you leave the guided trip whether of your own volition, our decision based on behavior that disrupts the trip, due to illness, action by any government or other reason. This partial list is illustrative and not an exhaustive list of every item not included.

Non-Operation of Group Trips

Some trips are based on a minimum number of participants. Really Rural Japan makes every effort to ensure that trips meet their minimum requirements. However, if the trip drops below the minimum number of participants cancellation of the trip may occur at the sole discretion of Really Rural Japan. In such case, guests will be advised at least sixty (60) days prior to departure. Really Rural Japan reserves the right to change the departure date. We may offer alternative trip dates or other travel arrangements. You may choose to accept these arrangements or to cancel your booking, in which case a full refund of the amounts paid to us will be provided. Any air cancellation will be in accordance with the terms of the carrier and Really Rural Japan will not be liable for the carrier’s refusal to make any refund whatsoever. In such case Really Rural Japan will not be liable for any additional costs incurred outside of the trip prices such as visa and passport fees, travel insurance or any other purchases made by the guest in anticipation of the trip.

CHANGES AND CANCELLATIONS.

CHANGES BY TRAVELER. Since changes may be considered cancelled services, additional cancellation penalties may apply. If allowed, changes are subject to additional Supplier charges, are based on availability, and may incur additional fees. Changes to airfare or other ticket contracts and/or cruise lines are subject to the applicable Supplier’s terms and conditions. Further, if a traveler cancels and there is a room change as a result, any additional costs for the new room type will be the responsibility of the remaining party. A change fee of $40 USD per person, per element changed to your tour will apply to any permitted change. We do not allow transfers of your booking to a new tour. We do, however, allow the transfer of a booking to another person for a fee equal to 10% of the total tour fee.

CANCELLATION BY TRAVELER. Cancellation of travel must be made in writing and is effective from the date we receive the written notification. As described above, Really Rural Japan is required to pay all Suppliers well in advance of your trip date. This includes but is not limited to accommodations, meals, transportation, museum tickets, etc. Should a cancellation become necessary, please inform Really Rural Japan immediately in writing and request a written confirmation of your cancellation. Upon receipt of your written cancellation, the cancellation charges set out in the policies below will apply, depending on whether you have booked a multiday (guided) tour or a guided day tour. Airline tickets, where applicable, are governed by the applicable air carrier’s terms, conditions, and policies, and we are not responsible for any air carrier’s decision regarding refunds. By agreeing to our booking terms and conditions, you acknowledge that any refunds or credits authorized by the applicable travel Supplier at any point after the time of purchase, will be issued in the form of currency in which original payment was made.

The following cancellation policies apply to your booking. The Multiday Tours policy applies to our multiday (guided) tours, and the Day Tour policy applies to our guided day tours.

Multiday Tours Cancellation Policy.

On the effective date the booking(s) is confirmed until 61 days prior to the start of the tour - The 20% deposit is non-refundable

From 60 days to 31 days prior to the start of the tour - 35% of the remaining balance paid is non-refundable

From 30 days to 15 days prior to the start of the tour - 70% of the remaining balance paid is non-refundable

From 14 days prior to the start of the tour and thereafter - 100% of the remaining balance paid is non-refundable

Day Tours Cancellation Policy.

On the effective date the booking(s) is confirmed until 31 days prior to the start of the tour - The 20% deposit is non-refundable

From 30 days to 15 days prior to the start of the tour - 30% of the remaining balance paid is non-refundable

From 14 days to 7 days prior to the start of the tour - 70% of the remaining balance paid is non-refundable

From 6 days prior to the start of the tour and thereafter - 100% of the remaining balance paid is non-refundable

CANCELLATION OR CHANGES BY REALLY RURAL JAPAN AND/OR SUPPLIER. If between planning time and/or during actual travel, circumstances require changes, Really Rural Japan and its Suppliers, reserve the right to cancel or vary any itinerary and substitute components of any trip, including but not limited to, ports and embarkation schedules, hotels and accommodations of comparable quality, air schedule or surface transportation changes (e.g., drivers and guides), security matters, and/or other events make such alterations necessary. Suppliers may substitute transportation equipment depending on any variety of factors, including the volume of passengers on the trip. Sightseeing trips may be altered as described above. Really Rural Japan cannot be held responsible for any closures, necessary itinerary changes, or curtails for any reason. These changes will not be considered material changes and will not be considered cause for cancellation by the traveler. Normal cancellation penalties still apply to the trip that has been changed. Without limitation to the foregoing, we reserve the right to cancel or reschedule any trip departure for any reason. If we cancel, except in the case of a force majeure event, we may offer alternate arrangements, and you may choose between a full refund of all money paid or credit in that amount for any alternative trip. If the alternative trip is less costly than the cancelled trip, we will refund you the difference. If the alternative trip is more costly than the cancelled trip, you will be required to pay the difference. Guests are responsible for any additional costs not directly booked through Really Rural Japan, including but not limited to, acquiring travel insurance or airline tickets or any other travel-related arrangements not made by us.

NO REFUND FOR UNUSED ARRANGEMENTS. As Really Rural Japan’s prices are based on contract rates, there will not be any refund for any unused portion of your tour. If you cancel while the trip is in progress, there is no refund for the unused portion. In addition, if you arrive late for a tour, any costs required to reach the location where the rest of the group is at the time of your arrival will be at your own expense.

FORCE MAJEURE. Really Rural Japan assumes no liability for, any loss, damage, delay, or cancellation resulting in whole or in part from an Act of God or any other force majeure condition, including, without limitation: natural disasters, fire, volcanic eruption, hurricane, environmental pollution or contamination, inclement weather, earthquake, low or high water levels, flood, landslides, water or power shortages or failures, tropical storms or hurricanes, natural or nuclear activity, riots or civil commissions or disturbances, and any other acts of a similar nature, sabotage, cybersecurity issues and/or technology outages or disruptions, changes of schedules or operational decisions of air carriers, arrests, strikes or labor disruptions, restraint of rulers or peoples, expropriations, acts of terrorism, war, insurrection, quarantine restrictions, government health advisories, epidemics, pandemics (including, without limitation, COVID-19), or warnings or alerts of any kind of nature, government seizures, refusal or cancellation or suspension or delay of any government authority or any license, permit or authorization, damages to its facilities or the travel Supplier and its facilities, or any other catastrophic circumstances or any other factors unforeseen by Really Rural Japan that impacts negatively on, or hampers, its ability to fulfill any of its contractual conditions. In the circumstances amounting to force majeure, we will not be required to refund any money to you, although if (and only if) we can recover any monies from our Suppliers (and we are under no obligation to), we will refund these to you without any charge by Really Rural Japan.

TRAVEL PROTECTION INSURANCE. Travel Protection Coverage is NOT included in the cost of your trip. It is the traveler’s responsibility to protect their purchases. Travel Protection Coverage is required, and every traveler must obtain and maintain a travel insurance policy for the duration of their tour. Because our tours are primarily hiking tours, such a plan should cover Trip Cancellation or Interruption, Medical Expense, Emergency Evacuation/Repatriation, Baggage, hiking at lower elevations (unless your itinerary specifically takes you to high elevations), and emergency helicopter rescue. Travel protection plans can help protect you in the event of loss of NON-REFUNDABLE trip deposits and payments that result from cancellation or trip interruption (due to a covered reason such as injury or illness before or during the trip). It also helps with reimbursement for medical emergency costs (including very costly medical evacuation and repatriation costs), missed connections and baggage loss. Travel protection plans, which may include Cancel For Any Reason coverage, must be purchased in close conjunction with your travel purchase.

Each travel insurance company may offer different package options, and you can shop based upon your specific individual concerns. While Really Rural Japan may recommend travel insurance options for you to choose from, we are not liable for any issues that result with said travel insurance options. Really Rural Japan is not qualified to answer technical questions about the benefits, exclusions, and conditions of travel insurance plans and as such we cannot evaluate the adequacy of the prospective insured's existing insurance coverage. Any and all cancellation fees will not be accepted as part of your claim. If you have any questions about your travel protection, call your insurer or insurance agent or broker.

Certain countries have a requirement for foreign visitors to have valid medical insurance on entry. Really Rural Japan cannot be held responsible for denied entry if a traveler is unable to provide details to authorities of insurance or denial of entry for any reason. Declining to purchase an adequate travel protection plan could result in the loss of your travel cost and/or require more money to correct the situation. You also acknowledge that without this coverage, there may be no way to recoup any losses, costs or expenses incurred. If you choose to travel without adequate coverage, we will not be liable for any of your losses howsoever arising, for which trip protection plan coverage would otherwise have been available.

DESTINATIONS AND DOCUMENTATION. Travel to certain destinations may involve greater risk than others. Really Rural Japan urges travelers to remain informed on a daily basis as to current news, as well as to review travel prohibitions, warnings, announcements and advisories issued by the United States Government prior to booking travel to international destinations. Information on conditions in various countries and the level of risk associated with travel to particular international destinations can be found at https://travel.state.gov/content/travel.html, and http://www.cdc.gov. In addition, you should consult with government websites to ensure that you are in compliance with all requirements for admittance into that country, including COVID- 19 requirements, as well as understanding local laws that govern travel within a country, such as medical tests and tracking. A U.S. State Department list of travel advisories is available at https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html/. SHOULD YOU CHOOSE TO TRAVEL TO A COUNTRY THAT HAS BEEN ISSUED A TRAVEL WARNING OR ADVISORY, Really Rural Japan WILL NOT BE LIABLE FOR DAMAGES OR LOSSES THAT RESULT FROM TRAVEL TO SUCH DESTINATIONS.

It is the sole responsibility of each traveler to obtain and carry a valid passport, visa(s), inoculations, and all other documents required by applicable government regulations. When travelling domestically within the USA or internationally, the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) advise that everyone carry at least two forms of acceptable identification in order to board a flight, found here: http://www.tsa.gov/traveler-information/acceptable-ids. Air travelers with identification (ID) that does not meet the REAL ID ACT requirements will have to use alternate ID forms (passport, military ID, or permanent resident card) to pass TSA security checkpoints—even for domestic travel. Visas are required when they apply. You can find out if your international destination requires a visa at https://www.usa.gov/visas-citizens-traveling-abroad. Travelers voluntarily assume full and sole responsibility for any and all risks and/or costs involved with failure to report any errors and/or omissions to documentation. In some countries you may be subject to entry (reciprocity) fees and/or departure taxes/ exit fees which will be collected at the airports upon entry/departure by local government authorities. Really Rural Japan strongly recommends that you take into account that certain countries will not admit a passenger if their passport expires within six (6) months of the date of entry. Many countries require a minimum number of blank pages in your passport book. Non-USA citizens may require additional documentation. Children and infants also require all such travel documents. Minors traveling with one parent, and/or without both parents, may be stopped and not admitted, unless authenticated and verified consent forms are provided to the authorities. Please visit www.travel.state.gov or https://www.dhs.gov/real-id for the most updated requirements for travel documentation.

Recommended inoculations for travel may change and you should consult your practitioner for current recommendations before you depart. It is your responsibility to ensure that you meet all health entry requirements, obtain the recommended inoculations, take all recommended medication, and follow all medical advice in relation to your trip. Inoculation requirements can be found on the Center for Disease Control website at https://www.cdc.gov/.

In addition, certain countries restrict travelers with criminal convictions, even if expunged. Please inform us prior to booking with us if this applies to you and seek separate legal counsel to confirm your ability to travel to your desired destination. If you are denied access to a country or a Supplier due to a conviction, Really Rural Japan shall not be liable for any losses, expenses, or refunds to you or anyone in your group.

YOU ACKNOWLEDGE ANY FAILURE TO STRICTLY COMPLY WITH THESE REQUIREMENTS MAY RESULT IN DENIED BOARDING OR AN UNDUE DELAY AT AN AIRPORT SECURITY CHECKPOINT CAUSING TRAVELER TO MISS FLIGHT(S), AND SUBSEQUENT SCHEDULED TRAVEL BOOKINGS TRIPS. REALLY RURAL JAPAN BEARS NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR ADVISING AND/OR OBTAINING REQUIRED TRAVEL DOCUMENTATION FOR YOU, OR FOR ANY DELAYS, DAMAGES, AND/OR LOSSES INCLUDING MISSED PORTIONS OF YOUR VACATION RELATED TO IMPROPER DOCUMENTATION OR GOVERNMENT DECISIONS ABOUT ENTRY.

INSECTICIDE NOTICE. Travelers are encouraged to check the list of countries that require airlines to treat the passenger cabin with insecticides prior to the flight or while on the aircraft on the U.S. Department of Transportation’s website, as this list is updated from time to time: http://www.dot.gov/office-policy/aviation-policy/aircraft-disinsection-requirements.

NON-RESPONSIBILITY. Really Rural Japan does not provide, own, manage, operate, supervise or control the travel services and products that may be provided as part of your trip, such as eateries, museums, activities (e.g., events, exhibits), transportation, flights, accommodations (e.g., hotels), cruise, or travel insurance (“Travel Products”). All Travel Products are owned, controlled, operated, or made available by vetted, independent third parties such as destination management companies, airlines, hotels, cruise lines and tour operators (“Suppliers”). Really Rural Japan and its members, managers, president, owners, employees, affiliates, agents, and representatives (“Representatives”) use third party Suppliers to arrange trips, transportation, sightseeing, lodging, and all other services related to this trip. Really Rural Japan is an independent contractor and is not a Representative of any of these Suppliers. All Suppliers are independent contractors and are not Representatives of Really Rural Japan. The Supplier’s terms, conditions and privacy policies apply to your booking so you must agree to and understand those terms. Your interaction with any Supplier is at your own risk; Really Rural Japan does not bear any responsibility should anything go wrong with your booking or during your travel. Hence, as the traveler, you agree that Really Rural Japan acts only as an advisor for the traveler in acquiring transportation, hotel accommodations, cruises, sightseeing and other Travel Products, privileges or services for the travelers’ benefit, and on the express condition that Really Rural Japan shall not be responsible for any act, omission, negligence, bankruptcy, insolvency or default of any Supplier, company or person engaged in or responsible for any Travel Products, or otherwise in connection therewith. Nothing in this section excludes or limits our liability for death or personal injury caused by our negligence, for fraud, or for any liability that cannot lawfully be excluded, or affects your rights under the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018 in respect of the proper performance of a package. Please review all documents, including the cancellation policies and terms and conditions of the Suppliers, carefully and promptly as we will not be responsible for any errors. It is your responsibility to review all travel documentation and alert us within twenty-four (24) hours of any corrections.

Further, all tickets, receipts, coupons, and vouchers are issued subject to the terms and conditions specified by each Supplier, and by accepting the coupons, vouchers, and tickets, or utilizing the services, all travelers agree that neither Really Rural Japan nor its Representatives are or may be liable for any loss, injury, or damage to any trip traveler or their belongings, or otherwise, in connection with any service supplied or not supplied resulting directly or indirectly from any occurrence beyond the control of Really Rural Japan including in the event any third-party providers or healthcare professionals seek to assist with medical or other help and we are not liable for any costs or missed activities in relation to said assistance. Really Rural Japan assumes no responsibility or liability for any delay, change in schedule, loss, injury or damage or loss of any traveler that may result from any act or omission on the part of others; Really Rural Japan assumes no responsibility or liability for personal property; and Really Rural Japan shall be relieved of any obligations under these Terms and Conditions in the event of any strike, labor dispute, act of God, or of government, fire, war, whether declared or not, terrorism, insurrection, riot, theft, pilferage, epidemic, pandemic or other infectious diseases, illness, physical injury, quarantine, medical or customs or immigration regulation, delay, or cancellation. Really Rural Japan accepts no responsibility for lost or stolen items. Really Rural Japan reserves the right to refuse any traveler or potential traveler at its sole discretion. The exclusions and limitations in this section apply only to the extent permitted by law and do not exclude or limit our liability for death or personal injury caused by our negligence, for fraud, or for any other liability that cannot lawfully be excluded, and do not affect your statutory rights as a consumer.

ASSUMPTION OF RISK/WAIVER. Traveler is fully aware of the risks connected with participating in the tour. These risks include, but are not limited to, risk of injury or death from: force majeure, motor and conveyance vehicle collisions, water related activities, animals, roadway hazards, slips, and falls, uneven terrain, criminal or terrorist acts, government actions, consumption of alcoholic beverages, tainted food, or non-potable water; exposure to the elements, including heat, cold, sun, water, and wind; your own negligence and/or the negligence of others, including tour guides, other travelers, Really Rural Japan and its Representatives; attack by or encounter with insects, reptiles, and/or animals; accidents or illness occurring in remote places where there are no available medical services; foodborne illnesses, dietary restrictions or allergic reactions, fatigue, chill, overheating, and/or dizziness; known or unknown medical conditions, illnesses caused by COVID-19 (or other pandemics and infectious diseases, etc.), physical excursion for which you are not prepared or other such accidents; the negligence or lack of adequate training of any third-party providers who seek to assist with medical or other help either before or after injuries have occurred; accident or illness without access to means of rapid evacuation or availability of medical supplies or services; and the adequacy of medical attention once provided.

Traveler understands the description of these risks, is not complete and that unknown or unanticipated risks may result in injury, illness, or death. In order to partake of the enjoyment and excitement of this trip, traveler is willing to accept the risks and uncertainty involved as being an integral part of travel, including the risk of infection, illness, and death. TRAVELER HEREBY ACCEPTS AND ASSUMES FULL RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY AND ALL RISKS AND AGREES TO AND SHALL HOLD HARMLESS AND FULLY RELEASE REALLY RURAL JAPAN AND ITS EMPLOYEES, SHAREHOLDERS, AGENTS, AND REPRESENTATIVES (“REPRESENTATIVES”) FROM ANY AND ALL CLAIMS ASSOCIATED WITH THE TRIP, INCLUDING ANY CLAIMS OF THIRD PARTY NEGLIGENCE AND/OR THE NEGLIGENCE OF REALLY RURAL JAPAN AND/OR ITS REPRESENTATIVES AND TRAVELER HEREBY COVENANT NOT TO SUE REALLY RURAL JAPAN AND/OR ITS REPRESENTATIVES FOR ANY SUCH CLAIMS OR JOIN ANY LAWSUIT OR ACTION THAT IS SUING REALLY RURAL JAPAN. NOTHING IN THIS PARAGRAPH EXCLUDES OR LIMITS OUR LIABILITY FOR DEATH OR PERSONAL INJURY CAUSED BY OUR NEGLIGENCE, FOR FRAUD, OR FOR ANY LIABILITY THAT CANNOT LAWFULLY BE EXCLUDED, OR REQUIRES YOU TO RELEASE, OR AFFECTS, ANY SUCH LIABILITY OR YOUR STATUTORY RIGHTS AS A CONSUMER. THESE TERMS AND CONDITIONS ALSO BIND YOUR HEIRS, LEGAL REPRESENTATIVES AND ASSIGNS. THE TERMS OF THIS HOLD HARMLESS AND RELEASE OF ALL LIABILITY PARAGRAPH, SHALL SURVIVE ANY TERMINATION OR CANCELLATION OF THESE TERMS AND CONDITIONS, WHETHER BY OPERATION OF LAW OR OTHERWISE.

Indemnification. Traveler agrees to and shall indemnify and hold harmless Really Rural Japan and its officers, directors, employees and agents, from any expenses, losses, liabilities, damages, judgments, settlements and costs (collectively, “damages”) involved with or incurred by Really Rural Japan (including, without limitation, reasonable attorneys’ fees and the advancement of same) with respect to any claims, law suits, arbitrations, or other causes of action, which result, directly or indirectly, from: (i) traveler’s breach or violation, or threatened breach or violation, of these Terms and Conditions; (ii) any of your negligent acts or omissions, or any damage caused by traveler while participating in the trip; (iii) any force majeure or inherent risk of travel; or (iv) claims brought by third parties in connection with any of the foregoing. The terms of this INDEMNIFICATION paragraph shall survive any termination or cancellation of these Terms and Conditions, whether by operation of law or otherwise.

YOUR BEHAVIOR. Each traveler in any trip planned by Really Rural Japan is expected to act responsibly and adhere to all behavior guidelines established by Really Rural Japan and our Suppliers. Really Rural Japan and all Suppliers reserve the right to remove you from any facility, hotel or resort property, trip location or means of transportation if your health or your conduct appears to endanger yourself or others, disrupts the general well-being of other individuals on any element of your trip, or interferes with the operation or security of the places we visit. In any such case, there will be NO refund.

When you book with Really Rural Japan you accept responsibility for any damage or loss caused by you or your group. Full payment for any such damage or loss (reasonably estimated if not precisely known) must be paid directly at the time to the accommodation owner or manager or other Supplier. You must indemnify us for the full amount of any claim (also including legal costs) made against us. We are not responsible for any costs incurred concerning a guest removed from a trip, or any portion of a trip. You agree not to hold Really Rural Japan or any of its Representatives liable for any actions taken under these Terms and Conditions.

You acknowledge and agree to follow and abide by any and all laws and regulations of any state and/or country you enter while participating in the trip. While all local and national laws and regulations are important to follow, we strictly encourage you to be informed concerning the use and/or possession of drugs in particular. There will be no tolerance for any use or possession of any drug and your failure to strictly comply with this requirement will result in a breach of these Terms and Conditions and may prevent you from your continued participation. We require responsible alcohol consumption for your safety and for those around you. If you are asked to leave a trip for inappropriate behavior, violence, or any other disruptive action, you will NOT be refunded.

BAGGAGE FEES/INFORMATION. Baggage and personal effects are at all times the sole responsibility of the traveler. Due to continual changes in airline baggage policies, it is suggested that you inquire with your airline's website for up-to-date fees & information. Really Rural Japan is NOT responsible for additional fees incurred for baggage or seating. The Department of Transportation along with the Federal Aviation Administration outline which materials are hazardous to carry in your baggage. More detailed information on this is available at https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/all.

RE-CONFIRM YOUR FLIGHT. Really Rural Japan advises you personally to re-confirm your flight schedule within 24 hours prior to departure directly with the airline in case of any last-minute changes or delays. Most airlines allow you to check in online 24 hours prior to departure. It is recommended that you arrive at the airport a minimum of two (2) hours prior to departure for domestic flights, and three (3) hours for international flights.

HEALTH/PRE-EXISTING MEDICAL CONDITIONS/PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES. Traveler is aware of the potentially rigorous physical and emotional demands of the tour, including but not limited to strenuous hiking in severe conditions over difficult terrain. By booking a tour with us, you acknowledge that you have undergone a physical examination and either received a doctor's approval to participate or chosen to participate without a physician's consent. Please note that if you are unable to complete the tour due to a physical or mental inability to keep up with the group of participants, there shall be NO refunds owed.

Tours designated as less strenuous (e.g., moderate hiking, etc.) may be available to those who are unable to meet the demands of our normal tours, however, the nature of many of the destinations we travel to means that in most cases they may be unsuitable for those who use a wheelchair or have a lack of mobility. In such cases, we will be delighted to discuss the feasibility of your participation in any of our trips. It is essential that you advise us before booking if you do have any disability or pre-existing medical condition which may affect your ability to do so, or if you have any special requirements as a result of any disability or medical condition (including any which affect the booking process) so that we can assist you in considering the suitability of the arrangements and/or in making the booking. Really Rural Japan will communicate requests to Suppliers but cannot be responsible if Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accommodations are not available. Any accommodations provided will be at the sole expense of the traveler requiring the accommodation. Please note that accommodations outside of the USA may not be in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and may not have wheelchair accessibility. Our Suppliers are, unfortunately, unable to offer additional assistance to travelers with limited mobility and all such assistance will need to be provided by whoever the traveler is traveling with. Travelers with disabilities must notify Really Rural Japan at the time of booking of status and of the identity of their non-discounted, paid travel companion who will be responsible for providing all necessary assistance. We may request that you provide a letter from your doctor confirming your fitness to travel.

If you are pregnant or expecting at or around the time of your planned travels, please inform us prior to booking. Some Suppliers will not permit travel past certain gestational periods for your safety and the safety of your child/ren. If you become pregnant after booking with us, please consult with a doctor and review the Supplier terms and conditions as they relate to your booking to determine whether you will be permitted or prevented from traveling. If you are denied boarding embarkation, or access to a Supplier due to a pregnancy, or physical or mental disability, Really Rural Japan shall not be liable for any losses, expenses, or refunds resulting from such loss in access for you or anyone in your group.

For the safety of our guests, Really Rural Japan reserves the right to request health information prior to travel and to exclude any participants it deems unfit for travel at its sole discretion.

PHOTOGRAPHIC/VIDEO LIKENESS AND FEEDBACK. Traveler hereby gives consent and grants to Really Rural Japan a royalty-free, perpetual, and irrevocable license to publish any testimonials and reviews of the trip or traveler in any form of media without obtaining further consent and without compensation, solely for the purposes of marketing our trips. Each traveler releases Really Rural Japan and its Representatives from any liability in connection with any use of such forms of media. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if a traveler desires to have a specific testimonial or review removed from our website or social media, please request said removal in writing.

LIMITATION OF LIABILITY. Nothing in these Terms and Conditions limits or excludes our liability for: (a) death or personal injury caused by our negligence or the negligence of our employees, agents or representatives; (b) fraud or fraudulent misrepresentation; (c) breach of the terms implied by the Consumer Rights Act 2015, including our duty to carry out any services with reasonable care and skill; or (d) any other liability that cannot lawfully be limited or excluded. Subject to the foregoing, and without prejudice to your rights under the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018, our total liability to you arising out of or in connection with these Terms and Conditions and your tour, whether in contract, tort (including negligence), breach of statutory duty or otherwise, shall be limited to the total price paid by you for the tour. We shall not be responsible for any loss or damage that was not a foreseeable result of our breach, or that was not caused by a breach on our part. If you have a complaint or a claim, please notify us in writing as soon as reasonably possible so that we have the opportunity to investigate and to put things right; this request does not affect your statutory rights or the time limits for bringing a claim under the Limitation Act 1980.

YOUR STATUTORY RIGHTS AND PACKAGE TRAVEL PROTECTION. As Really Rural Japan is a private limited company, incorporated in the United Kingdom, you are entitled to certain statutory rights and protections as part of the package travel protection. Where the tour you buy from us is a “package” within the meaning of the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018, you benefit from the statutory rights those Regulations give travelers, including in relation to the proper performance of the package, and to refunds, price reductions, alternative arrangements and assistance where a package is cancelled or significantly altered, including in unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances. Nothing in these Terms and Conditions removes or reduces the statutory rights you have as a consumer, whether under the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018, the Consumer Rights Act 2015 or otherwise. If there is any conflict between these Terms and Conditions and rights you have that cannot lawfully be excluded or limited, those rights prevail.

GOVERNING LAW AND VENUE. These Terms and Conditions and all attachments hereto and the rights of the parties hereunder shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of England and Wales. The courts of England and Wales shall have exclusive jurisdiction over any dispute or claim arising out of or in connection with these Terms and Conditions or your tour. Nothing in this clause affects any right you may have, as a consumer, to rely on mandatory provisions of the local law of the country in which you are resident.

ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATIONS. You consent to receive electronic communications, and you agree that all documents, notices, disclosures, and other communications that we provide to you electronically, via email or through text, satisfy any legal requirement that such communications be in writing.

MISCELLANEOUS. These Terms and Conditions, including any other documents, itineraries, and invoices we provide you, constitute our entire agreement and it supersedes all prior or contemporaneous communications and proposals, whether electronic, oral, or written, with respect to Really Rural Japan. If any provision of these Terms and Conditions shall be unlawful, void, or for any reason unenforceable, then that provision shall be deemed severable from these Terms and Conditions and shall not affect the validity and enforceability of any remaining provisions. Failure by us to exercise or enforce any right or provision of these legally binding Terms and Conditions shall not constitute a waiver of such right or provision. Any ambiguities in the interpretation of these Terms and Conditions shall not be construed against the drafting party. The provisions of these Terms and Conditions, which by their nature extend beyond termination or expiration of these Terms and Conditions (whether by operation of law or otherwise) shall survive the expiration or termination of these Terms and Conditions to the full extent necessary for their enforcement and for the protection of the party in whose favor they operate. These Terms and Conditions shall be written in, and all other communication under or in connection with these Terms and Conditions shall be in, the English language. Any translation into any other language shall not be an official version thereof, and in the event of any conflict in the interpretation between the English version and such translation, the English version shall control.