Giant buses with bright logos and dapper drivers are a common sight on even the most precarious routes around Japan. Cheerfully smocked hostesses stand dutifully (and dangerously) next to the driver clutching microphones and index cards with little-known facts. Once off the bus, they hoist flags high so members know which direction to follow.

If you are a traveler who prefers having everything prearranged, where all you have to do is show up, then Japanese bus tours are for you. Efficient and economical, they are a great opportunity to immerse yourself in Japanese culture. Your language skills will get a workout, too. Expect to be joined by twenty-five to thirty other people looking for a good time.

Ask at your hotel or any tourist information center for tsuaa options. There are a few different types of tours you may be interested in.

Two variations on the word “which” are used when referring to options:donna and dono. Donna refers to the range of choices available. Dono is more specific; it asks: “which one?”