At All Japan Tours, we believe one of the best ways to learn and adapt to local customs is none other than staying with a welcoming Japanese family. Many international companies spend a fortune on educating staff members on increasing service value and hospitality through customer service, an area where Japan is second to none. Traditional homestays allow you to experience Japanese hospitality at its very best while learning the traditions of the country from a local’s point of view. It is the perfect way to broaden one’s international views and learn respect for different customs.

Minshuku are family-operated, Japanese-style home accommodations. They are typically located in countryside cities, mountainous areas, or outside of tourist spots. For this reason, many homestay visitors have the opportunity to experience farming, net fishing, logging, and hand picking fresh produce. This is a great way to experience a traditional Japanese lifestyle, as well as to learn to appreciate many things we take for granted in the big city. Japanese homestays are seeing increasing popularity because they allow travelers to acquire and develop better conversational skills through various activities, such as learning how to play Japanese board games with the hosts or creating traditional art (ex. origami, ikebana).

Enjoy homemade Japanese meals and learn the importance of Japanese table etiquette, an important experience that you will take with you wherever you are dining in Japan. Host families are usually enthused to show you their city and its attractions, so be prepared for activity-filled days and embrace your first-hand experience of Japanese culture. Many travelers after a Japanese homestay experience report learning emphasized respect for their elders, how to bow, eco-friendly practices, and an increase in Japanese vocabulary of course. Once you have stayed at a minshuku, you are guaranteed to apply these new experiences in the future, as well as gain a different outlook on life. This unique journey off the beaten path of Japan ensures both an educational and unforgettable life experience for the privileged student groups.