Travel Agency Partnership

Travel Agency Partnership Terms

Last Updated: 8/25/2026

These B2B Travel Agency Terms and Conditions (“Terms”) govern the business relationship between Japan Awaits (“Japan Awaits,” “JA,” “DMC,” “we,” “us,” or “our”) and any travel agency, tour operator, travel consultant, wholesaler, reseller, or other business partner submitting inquiries, quotation requests, reservations, or bookings to Japan Awaits (“Agency,” “you,” or “your”).

By submitting an inquiry, application, quotation request, booking request, amendment request, payment, or other instruction to Japan Awaits, the Agency acknowledges that it has read, understood, and agreed to these Terms, together with any applicable quotation, invoice, service confirmation, product-specific policy, supplier condition, cancellation policy, or written agreement issued by Japan Awaits.

These Terms are intended for business-to-business transactions only and do not create a direct consumer contract between Japan Awaits and the Agency’s end clients unless expressly agreed in writing.

1. Definitions

For the purpose of these Terms: Agency means the travel agency, tour operator, reseller, wholesaler, or business partner requesting or purchasing services from Japan Awaits. Client or Guest means the end traveler, group, family, individual participant, corporate client, or other customer introduced by the Agency. Booking means a reservation for Services requested by the Agency and confirmed by Japan Awaits in accordance with these Terms. Confirmed Booking means a Booking that has been accepted in writing by Japan Awaits and for which the required payment has been received and confirmed by Japan Awaits. Services means tours, custom itineraries, guides, vehicles, transfers, accommodation coordination, ticket arrangements, restaurant reservations, supplier-based experiences, multi-day tours, FIT single-day tours, and any other travel-related service arranged or coordinated by Japan Awaits. Quoted Rate means the service price stated by Japan Awaits in a written quotation, invoice, or booking confirmation for the relevant Services. Quotation means a written proposal, estimate, itinerary price, or service price issued by Japan Awaits to the Agency based on the requested Services, travel date, number of guests, service scope, availability, supplier conditions, and operational requirements. Payment Deadline means the deadline stated by Japan Awaits in the quotation, invoice, or written confirmation by which the Agency must complete the required payment. Supplier means any third-party service provider involved in the delivery of Services, including but not limited to hotels, guides, drivers, transportation providers, restaurants, venues, ticket providers, local operators, museums, attractions, and experience providers. Trial Partner means a newly approved Agency undergoing Japan Awaits’ initial partnership evaluation period. Active Partner means an Agency that has met Japan Awaits’ annual partnership review criteria and has been confirmed by Japan Awaits in writing as eligible for Active Partner status. Force Majeure Event means any event beyond the reasonable control of Japan Awaits as further described in these Terms.

2. Scope of Services

Japan Awaits acts as a Japan-based destination management company arranging, coordinating, and managing local travel services on behalf of Agencies. Services may include, subject to availability and written confirmation:

  • Private tours
  • FIT single-day tours
  • Custom city tours
  • Multi-day tours
  • Guide arrangements
  • Private vehicle arrangements
  • Airport transfers
  • City-to-city transfers
  • Shinkansen or transportation support
  • Accommodation coordination
  • Restaurant reservations
  • Ticketed attractions
  • Supplier-based experiences
  • Special arrangements requested by the Agency and accepted by Japan Awaits

Japan Awaits may accept, decline, limit, or modify any request at its discretion based on availability, operational feasibility, supplier conditions, timing, booking value, risk, service scope, or incomplete information.

3. Agency Status, Partner Benefits, and Non-Exclusivity

Japan Awaits values long-term relationships with travel agencies that share a commitment to providing reliable and high-quality travel experiences in Japan. Approved Agency Partners may participate in Japan Awaits’ partnership framework, which is designed to support smoother communication, stronger collaboration, and more efficient coordination between both parties. Depending on the Agency’s status, collaboration history, operational feasibility, and Japan Awaits’ internal policies, partner support may include:

  • Better understanding of the Agency’s clients, travel preferences, and service expectations;
  • More efficient communication and coordination processes;
  • Planning fee support for eligible custom multi-day requests;
  • Improved quotation support workflows for qualified requests;
  • Access to selected partner resources, materials, and updates;
  • Eligibility for future partner tools, systems, or portal functions when introduced by Japan Awaits; and
  • Recognition as a trusted Agency partner based on successful collaboration.

Partner support is intended to strengthen the working relationship between Japan Awaits and the Agency and help both parties provide a better guest experience. Partner status does not automatically provide commission entitlement, guaranteed discounts, special pricing, credit terms, guaranteed availability, exclusivity, or priority supplier access unless separately confirmed by Japan Awaits in writing. Japan Awaits and the Agency maintain a non-exclusive business relationship unless otherwise agreed in writing. Both parties remain free to work with other agencies, suppliers, clients, and business partners. Japan Awaits may periodically review the partnership relationship based on booking activity, communication quality, operational cooperation, payment reliability, guest experience, and overall business value.

4. Partnership Status, Trial Review, and Active Partner Qualification

4.1 General Partnership Relationship

Japan Awaits’ partnership framework is designed to recognize Agencies that demonstrate reliable cooperation, professional communication, and a shared commitment to delivering quality travel experiences. Approved Agencies may submit eligible requests and booking inquiries to Japan Awaits, subject to service availability, operational feasibility, supplier conditions, payment requirements, and written confirmation. Trial Partner and Active Partner statuses represent different stages of the working relationship between Japan Awaits and the Agency. These statuses do not automatically create different pricing treatment, guaranteed availability, commission entitlement, credit terms, exclusivity, or other commercial benefits unless separately confirmed in writing. Japan Awaits evaluates partnership relationships based on the overall quality of cooperation, including:

  • Request quality and suitability;
  • Accuracy and completeness of guest information;
  • Communication and responsiveness;
  • Booking activity and future potential;
  • Payment reliability;
  • Guest experience; and
  • Operational cooperation.

4.2 Trial Partner Status

Newly approved Agency Partners will generally begin as Trial Partners. The Trial Partnership period allows both Japan Awaits and the Agency to understand each other’s working processes, communication style, service expectations, and operational requirements. During this period, Japan Awaits may review:

  • The quality and suitability of submitted requests;
  • The completeness and accuracy of guest information;
  • Communication efficiency;
  • Cooperation during quotation and booking processes;
  • Guest feedback and service experience; and
  • Potential for future collaboration.

Trial Partnership provides an opportunity for both parties to evaluate whether a long-term partnership is suitable.


4.3 Active Partner Qualification

An Agency may become eligible for Active Partner status after demonstrating a consistent and positive working relationship with Japan Awaits. Japan Awaits may consider factors including:

  • Confirmed booking activity;
  • Booking conversion from qualified requests;
  • Timely payment completion;
  • Accurate and complete guest information;
  • Professional communication;
  • Compliance with Japan Awaits’ procedures;
  • Positive guest experience; and
  • Overall operational cooperation.

Active Partner status is based on the overall relationship between Japan Awaits and the Agency rather than a single performance measure. Japan Awaits may consider different partnership situations depending on the Agency’s market, client profile, booking potential, and strategic value.

4.4. Calendar-Year Review Basis

Active Partner status is reviewed based on the Agency’s overall performance within the relevant calendar year. The Agency is not required to distribute its confirmed Bookings evenly across seasons, quarters, or months. For the purpose of Active Partner qualification, an Agency may satisfy the annual activity baseline through either at least four (4) valid confirmed Bookings or at least JPY 800,000 in total confirmed booking value within the relevant calendar year, provided that the Bookings are accepted by Japan Awaits. Japan Awaits will review the Agency’s status based on the totality of its annual booking activity, booking conversion, payment reliability, communication quality, operational cooperation, and compliance with these Terms, rather than on a quarterly, monthly, or seasonal allocation requirement.

4.5 Future Active Partner Support

Active Partner status recognizes Agencies that have developed a reliable and valuable working relationship with Japan Awaits. Active Partners may become eligible for additional support, resources, or tools introduced by Japan Awaits in the future. Possible support may include:

  • Partner portal access;
  • More streamlined request submission processes;
  • Improved visibility of request or booking information where available;
  • Access to selected partner materials and resources; and
  • Additional collaboration opportunities.

Future partner support will depend on Japan Awaits’ operational capacity, business strategy, and internal approval. Active Partner status does not automatically provide commission, discounts, special pricing, guaranteed availability, credit terms, exclusivity, or other commercial benefits unless separately confirmed in writing.

4.6. Status Review and Reversion

Japan Awaits may review Agency status periodically or when operational, commercial, payment, or compliance concerns arise. Japan Awaits may maintain, activate, suspend, revert, or terminate an Agency’s status based on the Agency’s overall performance and compliance with these Terms. Japan Awaits may decline to grant or maintain Active Partner status if the Agency:

  • Does not meet the minimum annual confirmed Booking requirement;
  • Does not meet the minimum booking conversion requirement;
  • Provides incomplete, inaccurate, or late guest information;
  • Repeatedly submits unclear or low-intent requests;
  • Fails to complete payment by the required deadline;
  • Cancels improperly or causes avoidable supplier penalties;
  • Misrepresents Japan Awaits’ Services to Clients;
  • Breaches confidentiality or non-circumvention obligations;
  • Misuses Japan Awaits’ materials, supplier information, or operational information; or
  • Creates legal, financial, reputational, guest experience, or operational risk for Japan Awaits.

4.7. No Automatic Entitlement

Active Partner status is not permanent and does not create any vested right, guaranteed benefit, or entitlement to continued partnership. Japan Awaits retains the right to determine whether an Agency qualifies for, maintains, loses, or regains Active Partner status based on Japan Awaits’ overall review of the Agency relationship.

5. Request Submission and Cut-Off Dates

Japan Awaits provides these requirements to help Agencies receive accurate quotations, avoid preventable delays, and ensure that confirmed services can be delivered smoothly for guests in Japan. The Agency must submit all service requests through the official communication channel, request form, application form, email address, or other process designated by Japan Awaits. All requests must include sufficient information for Japan Awaits to review feasibility, pricing, availability, and operational requirements. Required information may include:

  • Client name;
  • Number of travelers;
  • Travel dates;
  • Requested cities and destinations;
  • Hotel name or hotel area;
  • Tour date and preferred start/end time;
  • Service type;
  • Guide language;
  • Transportation requirements;
  • Guest interests and preferences;
  • Mobility, accessibility, dietary, medical, or special requirements;
  • Budget expectations, where relevant;
  • Flight, cruise, port, or arrival/departure details, where relevant;
  • Any supplier, restaurant, attraction, or ticket preference; and
  • Any deadline by which the Agency requires a response.

Japan Awaits may decline or pause any request if the information provided is incomplete, unclear, inaccurate, inconsistent, or insufficient for operational review. General request cut-off guidelines are as follows, unless otherwise stated in writing:

Service Type Minimum Recommended Lead Time
FIT single-day tour with guide At least 21 days before tour date
Vehicle-only single-day request Case-by-case, subject to availability
Requests within 7 days of service date May be declined or limited to vehicle-only services
Multi-day tour request At least 45 days before first service date
City-to-city private transfer At least 21 days before travel date
Shinkansen arrangement At least 1 month before travel date
Accommodation coordination Ideally around 3 months before travel date
Airport transfer Reviewed case by case
Restaurant or ticketed attraction request Subject to supplier release timing and availability

Submission within the above lead time does not guarantee acceptance, quotation, or confirmation. Short-notice requests may be reviewed case by case and may be subject to limited availability, higher rates, simplified service scope, or refusal.

6. Custom Requests and Add-On Eligibility

Japan Awaits welcomes custom travel requests from Agencies and aims to support unique guest requirements whenever operationally possible. Custom requests and add-on services may require additional planning, coordination, and communication with external suppliers. To ensure Japan Awaits can provide reliable service support, certain add-on services may only be available when the booking meets the applicable conditions below. Japan Awaits reviews each request based on factors including:

  • Confirmed booking scope;
  • Total booking value;
  • Number of travelers;
  • Service complexity;
  • Travel schedule;
  • Operational feasibility;
  • Supplier availability; and
  • Timing of the request.

Meeting the applicable conditions does not guarantee that an add-on service can be provided, quoted, reserved, or confirmed. All add-on services remain subject to availability, supplier conditions, payment completion, and final confirmation by Japan Awaits.


6.1 FIT Single-Day Requests

Custom FIT single-day tour requests generally do not require a planning fee. Examples may include:

  • Private guided city tours;
  • Customized sightseeing experiences;
  • Private vehicle arrangements; and
  • Day-trip experiences.

If Japan Awaits prepares and provides a customized itinerary or sample itinerary for a single-day request and the booking is later cancelled, a service fee of 15% of the total tour cost may apply unless a higher cancellation charge applies under the applicable cancellation policy. Complex add-on services are reviewed separately based on the booking scope, coordination requirements, and operational feasibility.


6.2 FIT Multi-Day Requests

Multi-day travel arrangements require additional planning and coordination due to multiple destinations, transportation arrangements, supplier communication, and itinerary development. A JPY 2,500 planning fee may apply to eligible FIT multi-day custom requests submitted by non-partner Agencies. The planning fee supports the additional coordination required to develop customized travel recommendations, including:

  • Reviewing guest preferences;
  • Developing itinerary options;
  • Evaluating transportation routes;
  • Coordinating with suppliers;
  • Reviewing operational feasibility; and
  • Preparing customized recommendations.

Approved Partner Agencies may receive planning fee support for eligible requests, subject to Japan Awaits’ review and operational feasibility.


6.3 Add-On Service Conditions

Add-on services require additional coordination and are available based on the applicable conditions below.

Service Eligibility Condition
Shinkansen Arrangements 3+ custom city tours (minimum 4 hours/day each) OR total booking value of JPY 400,000 or above
Accommodation Coordination 4+ custom city tours (minimum 4 hours/day each) OR total booking value of JPY 400,000 or above
Airport Transfer 3+ custom city tours (minimum 4 hours/day each) OR total booking value of JPY 400,000 or above
City-to-City Private Transfer Requires sufficient advance notice and operational review. Requests should generally be submitted at least 21 days before the service date
Port Pickup / Cruise Support Reviewed based on cruise schedule, port requirements, passenger timing, luggage requirements, vehicle availability, and overall booking scope
Restaurant Reservations Reviewed based on restaurant policy, party size, guest requirements, timing, availability, and booking context
Ticketed Attractions Reviewed based on ticket release timing, supplier conditions, availability, payment requirements, and operational feasibility

6.4 Shinkansen and Accommodation Conditions

Shinkansen and accommodation arrangements are subject to availability, supplier conditions, travel dates, booking scope, and timing of confirmation. Japan Awaits may only provide Shinkansen or accommodation support when sufficient travel details are available. Accommodation quotations may be provided on an estimated basis, such as “[Hotel Name] or similar.” A quotation does not guarantee that a specific hotel, room type, rate, or supplier will remain available until the booking is confirmed. Shinkansen availability and pricing may vary depending on ticket release timing, travel dates, seat availability, luggage requirements, and supplier conditions.

7. Quotation Process

Japan Awaits prepares quotations with the goal of providing Agencies with clear, practical, and realistic service proposals based on guest requirements, local conditions, supplier availability, and operational considerations. After reviewing an Agency’s request, Japan Awaits may provide a quotation outlining the proposed services and applicable conditions. A quotation may include:

  • Service description;
  • Travel date;
  • Number of guests;
  • Inclusions and exclusions;
  • Service fees;
  • Currency;
  • Payment requirements;
  • Quotation validity period;
  • Cancellation conditions;
  • Supplier-specific conditions;
  • Operational notes;
  • Items pending confirmation; and
  • Special arrangements or conditions.

Japan Awaits prepares quotations based on the information available at the time of preparation. A quotation is intended to help both parties review the proposed arrangement and does not represent final confirmation of services until the booking confirmation process has been completed. Availability, pricing, supplier conditions, and operational requirements may change before confirmation. Japan Awaits will communicate any significant changes and work with the Agency to identify suitable alternatives where possible. Japan Awaits may revise or update a quotation when there are changes to:

  • Guest information;
  • Travel dates;
  • Number of travelers;
  • Service scope;
  • Supplier availability;
  • Supplier pricing;
  • Currency conditions; or
  • Operational requirements.

8. Booking and Confirmation

To ensure reliable service delivery, bookings are considered confirmed only after the required confirmation process has been completed. A booking confirmation generally requires:

  1. Japan Awaits has accepted the requested services in writing;
  2. The Agency has confirmed acceptance of the quotation and applicable conditions;
  3. Required payment has been received according to the agreed payment schedule; and
  4. Japan Awaits has confirmed that the relevant services can be arranged.

Before final confirmation, Japan Awaits may continue to review availability and operational feasibility. Services that may require confirmation include, but are not limited to:

  • Guides;
  • Vehicles;
  • Hotels;
  • Restaurants;
  • Tickets;
  • Transportation services;
  • Attractions;
  • Special experiences; and
  • Other supplier arrangements.

To avoid misunderstandings with guests, Agencies are encouraged not to represent services as finalized until Japan Awaits has provided written confirmation. Preliminary discussions, draft itineraries, sample recommendations, availability checks, or quotation documents do not represent final booking confirmation. Japan Awaits will make reasonable efforts to support confirmed guest requests while ensuring that arrangements can be delivered reliably.


9. Rates, Quotation Validity, and Currency

Japan Awaits provides quotations based on the specific requirements of each request, including travel dates, number of guests, service scope, supplier conditions, seasonality, availability, and operational requirements. Unless otherwise stated, quotations are provided in Japanese Yen (JPY). Each quotation includes a validity period or payment deadline to help both parties manage supplier availability and pricing conditions. If a quotation expires before confirmation and payment are completed, Japan Awaits may need to reconfirm:

  • Availability;
  • Supplier conditions;
  • Service scope;
  • Pricing; or
  • Other applicable conditions.

Japan Awaits does not generally provide commissionable rates as a standard arrangement. Any commission, discount, credit arrangement, deferred payment term, marketing support fee, or other commercial agreement must be separately discussed and confirmed in writing. Unless specifically included in the quotation, prices may not include:

  • Taxes or applicable fees;
  • Bank transfer charges;
  • Payment processing fees;
  • Currency exchange costs;
  • Meals and beverages;
  • Admission fees;
  • Guide admission fees;
  • Transportation not listed as included;
  • Personal expenses;
  • Travel insurance;
  • Flights;
  • Visa-related costs;
  • Accommodation unless specifically included; or
  • Services not stated in the confirmed quotation.

10. Payment Terms

Japan Awaits’ payment process is designed to support reliable service preparation, supplier commitments, and smooth delivery of guest experiences. Payment requirements and deadlines will be communicated clearly in the quotation, invoice, or booking confirmation. Unless otherwise agreed in writing, payments should be made in Japanese Yen (JPY) through an approved payment method provided by Japan Awaits. The Agency is responsible for any applicable transfer fees, intermediary bank charges, payment platform fees, or currency conversion costs required to complete payment. Payment is considered completed once the funds have been received and confirmed by Japan Awaits or the applicable payment provider. To protect availability and allow Japan Awaits to secure required services, certain arrangements may only be finalized after required payment has been received. These arrangements may include:

  • Supplier reservations;
  • Ticket purchases;
  • Hotel arrangements;
  • Vehicle reservations;
  • Guide arrangements; and
  • Other non-refundable or limited-availability services.

10.1 Payment Deadline for Single-Day Tours and FIT Services

For single-day tours, private FIT services, transfers, and similar arrangements, full payment is generally required according to the payment deadline stated in the quotation or confirmation. Unless otherwise agreed, payment timing may generally follow:

Timing Before First Service Date Payment Deadline
More than 31 days before service date Within 10 days from invoice or payment request
21 to 30 days before service date Within 7 days from invoice or payment request
20 days or less before service date Within 3 days from invoice or payment request

For short-notice requests, Japan Awaits may request earlier payment confirmation depending on supplier requirements and operational conditions.

10.2 Payment Structure for Multi-Day Tours

For Multi-Day Tour bookings, Japan Awaits may determine the required payment structure based on the total booking value, supplier conditions, accommodation requirements, ticketing requirements, transportation arrangements, seasonality, and operational risk. Unless otherwise stated in the quotation, invoice, or written confirmation, the following installment structure may apply:

Total Booking Value Payment Structure
Up to JPY 499,000 One-time payment. No installment arrangement applies.
JPY 500,000 to under JPY 1,999,000 Two (2) installments.
JPY 2,000,000 and above Two (2) installments as the standard arrangement. Three (3) installments may be considered upon request, subject to approval by Japan Awaits.

If installment payments are approved, installment due dates must generally be no more than 7 days apart, unless otherwise approved by Japan Awaits in writing. The amount and deadline of each installment shall be stated in the quotation, invoice, or written confirmation issued by Japan Awaits. Japan Awaits may require full upfront payment instead of installment payment where required by supplier conditions, short lead time, high booking value, non-refundable arrangements, or operational risk. No operational arrangements will be finalized until the required payment has been received and confirmed by Japan Awaits.

For all Multi-Day Tour bookings, full payment, including the final installment where applicable, must be received by Japan Awaits no later than 45 days before the first service date.

10.3 Late Payment and Automatic Cancellation

If the Agency fails to complete any required payment by the stated deadline, Japan Awaits may, without liability:

  • Cancel the booking;
  • Release any pending availability;
  • Stop operational arrangements;
  • Suspend supplier confirmation;
  • Withdraw or revise the quotation;
  • Require price and availability reconfirmation;
  • Require immediate full payment; or
  • Decline further handling of the request.

Japan Awaits is not responsible for any loss, cancellation charge, supplier release, price increase, or unavailability resulting from late payment by the Agency. If a booking is cancelled due to late payment, any deposit or payment already made may be retained to cover cancellation charges, supplier costs, non-refundable expenses, bank fees, payment processing fees, and actual costs already incurred.

11. Last-Minute Requests, Amendments, and Special Arrangements

11.1 Last-Minute Request Window

Any request, change, addition, amendment, or special arrangement submitted within seventy-two (72) hours prior to the scheduled pickup time or service start time shall be treated as a last-minute request. Last-minute requests may include, but are not limited to:

  • Addition or reduction of passengers;
  • Change of hotel, pickup point, drop-off point, or meeting point;
  • Change of service time, route, duration, or itinerary;
  • Request for additional guide hours or vehicle hours;
  • Request for restaurant reservations, tickets, special access, or venue changes;
  • Request for special assistance, mobility support, dietary arrangements, language support, or other guest-specific requirements; or
  • Any operational change that affects guides, vehicles, suppliers, tickets, timing, or service delivery.

11.2 Subject to Availability

All last-minute requests are strictly subject to actual availability, operational feasibility, supplier acceptance, guide availability, vehicle availability, venue availability, and Japan Awaits’ written approval. Japan Awaits shall have no obligation to accept or fulfill any last-minute request. Failure by Japan Awaits or any Supplier to accommodate a last-minute request shall not constitute a breach of contract, service failure, or ground for refund.

11.3 Additional Charges

Any approved last-minute request may be subject to additional charges, including supplier fees, guide overtime, vehicle overtime, ticket price differences, cancellation or amendment charges, and any other actual cost incurred by Japan Awaits.

Where the request is also an amendment to a confirmed Multi-Day Tour booking, the applicable Japan Awaits Amendment Handling Fee will be determined under Section 12.

The applicable Amendment Handling Fee is inclusive of Japan Awaits’ internal administrative work, itinerary revision, supplier communication, coordination, and emergency coordination required for the same amendment request. Japan Awaits will not charge an additional internal administration or emergency coordination fee for that same request.

Any third-party supplier charges, non-refundable costs, penalties, or additional operational costs remain separate and will be charged in addition to the applicable Japan Awaits Amendment Handling Fee.

12. Amendments and Schedule Changes

The Agency must notify Japan Awaits in writing as soon as possible if the Client requests any amendment to a confirmed booking.

Japan Awaits will make reasonable efforts to accommodate amendment requests; however, all amendments remain subject to availability, supplier conditions, timing, operational feasibility, and the confirmed booking terms.

Amendments may include changes to travel dates, timing, number of guests, accommodation, route, destination, itinerary, transportation, guide requirements, restaurant arrangements, tickets, or other confirmed services.

12.1 Multi-Day Tour Amendment Handling Fees

For confirmed Multi-Day Tour bookings, amendment handling fees are determined based on the date Japan Awaits receives the written amendment request.

Amendment Timing Amendment Type JA Handling Fee General Treatment
More than 6 calendar months before the first service date Any eligible amendment JPY 0 No Japan Awaits amendment handling fee. Supplier charges, non-refundable costs, and price differences may still apply.
6 calendar months to 46 days before the first service date Minor Amendment JPY 2,200 tax included per request Applies to limited changes that do not materially restructure the itinerary.
6 calendar months to 46 days before the first service date Major Amendment JPY 7,000 tax included per request Applies to material changes requiring significant re-planning, rebooking, or supplier coordination.
45 days or less before the first service date Late Minor Amendment JPY 3,500 tax included per request May be accepted subject to availability, supplier conditions, and operational feasibility.
45 days or less before the first service date Major / Structural Change Cancellation and rebooking treatment may apply Major structural changes will not normally be processed under the standard amendment fee where confirmed services must be cancelled and substantially rebuilt.

Amendment Classification

Classification Examples
Minor Amendment Changing or removing one activity or attraction; changing one restaurant reservation; adjusting the time of one confirmed service; changing a meeting point; changing a pickup or drop-off location within a reasonable distance; or another limited single-service adjustment that does not materially affect the overall itinerary.
Major Amendment Hotel or accommodation changes requiring rebooking; material changes to the number of guests; tour date or duration changes; adding, removing, or changing a destination city; route changes; material private transportation or vehicle-category changes; guide requirement or language changes; or significant itinerary restructuring.
Major / Structural Change Within 45 Days Hotel & accommodation replacement; tour-date changes; destination removal or replacement; substantial route changes; major transportation restructuring; material guest-number changes; or any change requiring significant confirmed arrangements to be cancelled and substantially rebuilt.

Application Rules

  • Amendment Handling Fees apply per consolidated amendment request, not per individual line item.
  • A consolidated amendment request means changes submitted together in one written submission.
  • If one request contains both Minor and Major changes, only the Major Amendment Fee applies.
  • Additional changes submitted after Japan Awaits has begun processing a previous request may be treated as a new amendment request and may incur a separate fee.
  • All supplier cancellation fees, amendment penalties, non-refundable deposits, ticket reissue costs, additional transportation or guide costs, and any increase in the revised itinerary price are separate from the Japan Awaits Amendment Handling Fee.
  • Japan Awaits may accept or decline any amendment based on availability, supplier conditions, timing, booking terms, and operational feasibility.
  • Where a requested amendment requires an existing confirmed service to be cancelled and replaced, applicable supplier cancellation charges and other non-refundable costs for the affected service will apply.
  • If a requested amendment materially alters the overall booking or requires most existing arrangements to be cancelled and rebuilt, Japan Awaits may treat the original booking as cancelled and require a new booking under the applicable cancellation terms.

Booking Fee vs. Amendment Fee Clarification

The 5% non-refundable planning and handling fee for Multi-Day Tour bookings covers the initial itinerary planning, booking preparation, and administrative work associated with the original confirmed arrangements.

Amendment Handling Fees are separate charges that apply only when the Agency or Client requests changes to a confirmed itinerary within six (6) calendar months of the first service date. These fees cover the additional planning, administrative work, itinerary revision, supplier communication, coordination, and, where applicable, emergency coordination required to review and process the amendment.

Japan Awaits will not charge an additional internal administration or emergency coordination fee for the same amendment request.

Supplier cancellation fees, amendment penalties, non-refundable costs, ticket reissue charges, additional transportation or guide costs, and any increase in the revised itinerary price are separate and will be charged in addition to the applicable Japan Awaits Amendment Handling Fee.

13. Cancellation by the Agency or Client

All cancellations must be submitted in writing by the Agency to Japan Awaits. Cancellation is effective only when received and acknowledged in writing by Japan Awaits during business hours. Cancellation charges are calculated based on the date and time Japan Awaits receives the written cancellation notice, Japan time. Cancellation conditions vary depending on the service type, supplier conditions, product policy, booking channel, and confirmed booking terms. Where a product-specific or supplier-specific cancellation policy is stated in the quotation, invoice, product page, booking confirmation, or supplier condition, that specific policy shall apply.

14. Multi-Day Tour Cancellation Policy

For Multi-Day Tour bookings, a non-refundable planning and handling fee of 5% of the total tour fee applies after payment has been completed. If a Multi-Day Tour booking is cancelled, this 5% planning and handling fee will be retained regardless of when the cancellation occurs. For the purpose of this section, “remaining balance” means the total tour fee after deducting the 5% non-refundable planning and handling fee. Any applicable cancellation charge will be calculated on the remaining balance only. Cancellation fees on the remaining balance may apply as follows:

Timing of Cancellation Cancellation Charge on Remaining Balance
More than 45 days before first service date Full refund of remaining balance, less the 5% planning and handling fee
45 days or less before first service date 25% of remaining balance
30 days or less before first service date 50% of remaining balance
14 days or less before first service date 75% of remaining balance
7 days or less before first service date 100% of remaining balance

Non-refundable supplier costs, bank fees, payment processing fees, ticket fees, accommodation deposits, restaurant deposits, transportation deposits, or other actual costs already incurred may be deducted in addition to the above cancellation charges where applicable.

15. Single-Day Tour and FIT Service Cancellation Policies

Single-day tours, FIT private tours, vehicle arrangements, guide-supported tours, and other one-day services follow the cancellation policy stated in the applicable quotation, invoice, product page, or booking confirmation. Where no product-specific or supplier-specific cancellation policy is stated, the following service-type cancellation policies may apply.

15.1 Vehicle-Only Service Cancellation Policy

This policy applies to vehicle-only arrangements, private transfers, airport transfers, city-to-city transfers, and other transportation services that do not include guide service, unless a stricter supplier-specific condition applies.

Timing of Cancellation Cancellation Charge
More than 20 days before service date No cancellation charge, except non-refundable costs already incurred
20 days or less before service date 25%
14 days or less before service date 50%
7 days or less before service date 100%

15.2 Guide-Supported Tour Cancellation Policy

This policy applies to guide-supported FIT single-day private tours and other one-day guide arrangements, unless a stricter product-specific or supplier-specific condition applies.

Timing of Cancellation Cancellation Charge
More than 30 days before service date No cancellation charge, except non-refundable costs already incurred
30 days or less before service date 25%
21 days or less before service date 50%
14 days or less before service date 100%

15.3 Custom Single-Day Itinerary Preparation Fee

For custom single-day tours, if Japan Awaits has prepared and sent a custom itinerary or sample itinerary, a service fee of 15% of the total tour cost may be non-refundable if the booking is cancelled. If the applicable cancellation policy results in a higher cancellation charge, the applicable cancellation policy will apply instead.

16. Supplier-Specific and Product-Specific Cancellation Terms

Certain services may be fully or partially non-refundable once booked. These may include, but are not limited to:

  • Hotels;
  • Ryokan;
  • Restaurants;
  • Private venues;
  • Event tickets;
  • Attraction tickets;
  • Theater or performance tickets;
  • Sumo or seasonal event tickets;
  • Shinkansen or transportation tickets;
  • Charter vehicles;
  • Special guides;
  • Supplier-based experiences; and
  • Services requiring advance deposits.

If a Supplier imposes stricter cancellation, amendment, or refund conditions, those conditions will apply to the relevant portion of the Booking. Japan Awaits may apply a stricter cancellation policy where required by suppliers, seasonality, ticketing conditions, private arrangements, accommodation rules, transportation rules, guide arrangements, or special service conditions. Japan Awaits is entitled to deduct any non-refundable supplier cost, cancellation fee, administrative fee, bank fee, payment processing fee, or actual cost incurred before issuing any refund.

17. Refunds

Refunds, where applicable, will be processed after Japan Awaits has reviewed:

  • Applicable cancellation policy;
  • Supplier cancellation conditions;
  • Non-refundable costs;
  • Payment processing fees;
  • Bank charges;
  • Currency exchange impact;
  • Actual costs already incurred; and
  • Any amount already paid to Suppliers.

Refunds will normally be made to the original payer and through the original payment channel where possible. Japan Awaits is not responsible for exchange rate differences, bank charges, intermediary bank deductions, credit card fees, payment platform fees, or delays caused by banks or payment providers.

18. Passenger Health, Fitness, Accessibility, and Travel Medical Insurance

18.1 Passports, Visas, Permits, and Travel Documentation

The Agency and Client are solely responsible for ensuring that all travelers hold valid passports, visas, permits, entry approvals, immigration documents, transit documents, reciprocity fee confirmations, health documents, vaccination records, and any other documentation required for entry into, departure from, transit through, or travel within Japan or any other destination included in the Booking.

Japan Awaits may provide general destination information or practical assistance where available. However, such information or assistance is provided for convenience only and does not constitute legal, immigration, visa, consular, medical, or travel-documentation advice. Japan Awaits does not represent or warrant the accuracy, completeness, or current status of any information relating to passports, visas, permits, entry requirements, vaccinations, health conditions, climate, baggage, clothing, or special equipment.

Japan Awaits shall not be responsible for any loss, cancellation, denied boarding, denied entry, visa refusal, visa delay, travel delay, additional cost, unused service, missed service, or failure to travel arising from the Agency’s or Client’s failure to obtain, maintain, or present proper travel documentation or satisfy applicable entry, transit, immigration, health, or travel requirements.

Visa refusal, visa delay, denied entry, denied boarding, missing documentation, or incomplete travel requirements do not automatically entitle the Agency or Client to a full refund.

If a Booking is cancelled due to visa refusal, visa delay, denied entry, denied boarding, missing documentation, or incomplete travel requirements, the applicable cancellation policy shall apply based on the date and time Japan Awaits receives the written cancellation notice or official visa refusal notice, Japan time.

Supplier conditions, non-refundable supplier costs, actual costs already incurred, payment processing fees, bank charges, visa-related costs, and other non-recoverable costs may still be deducted where applicable.

The Agency is responsible for communicating all relevant passport, visa, permit, health-documentation, entry, transit, and travel-documentation requirements to its Clients before confirming the sale of any Japan Awaits Service.

18.2 Agency’s Pre-Screening Obligation

The Agency shall be solely responsible for informing its Clients, before booking, of the physical nature, accessibility limitations, and practical conditions of travel services in Japan. The Agency acknowledges that certain tours and services in Japan may involve substantial walking, including walking distances of approximately 10 to 15 kilometers per day depending on the itinerary, use of public transportation, standing for extended periods, stairs, slopes, uneven surfaces, narrow streets, crowded stations, temples, shrines, historic districts, rural areas, and locations with limited elevator, escalator, wheelchair, or barrier-free access. The Agency shall be responsible for pre-screening all Clients to determine whether they are suitable for the requested Services, including but not limited to elderly Clients, Clients aged seventy (70) or above, pregnant Clients, Clients with cardiovascular conditions, asthma, respiratory conditions, joint or mobility issues, disabilities, wheelchair requirements, walking aids, medical devices, serious allergies, dietary restrictions, or any other physical, medical, accessibility, or safety-related condition. Japan Awaits relies on the information provided by the Agency and shall not be liable for any loss, injury, service limitation, itinerary modification, additional cost, delay, refusal of service, or cancellation arising from the Agency’s failure to properly screen Clients or disclose relevant information.

18.3 Medical and Accessibility Disclosure Cut-Off

The Agency must notify Japan Awaits in writing of any special medical condition, physical limitation, mobility restriction, accessibility requirement, serious allergy, medical dietary requirement, pregnancy, age-related concern, wheelchair requirement, or other condition that may affect safe participation no later than fourteen (14) days before the first service date. For bookings confirmed within fourteen (14) days of the first service date, such information must be disclosed before Japan Awaits accepts the Booking. If the Agency fails to disclose such information, or discloses it late, Japan Awaits shall not be responsible if it is unable to adjust the itinerary, secure accessible transportation, arrange wheelchair-compatible vehicles, modify restaurant arrangements, change routes, provide special assistance, or otherwise accommodate the Client’s needs. Any additional cost arising from late or incomplete disclosure shall be borne solely by the Agency or Client.

18.4 Health Self-Assessment Requirement

For tours involving higher physical demand, outdoor activity, trekking, hiking, mountain routes, marine or boat-based activities, remote areas, long walking distance, seasonal weather exposure, or any itinerary requiring elevated physical fitness, Japan Awaits may require the Agency to obtain a completed and signed Health Self-Assessment Form from each relevant Client before confirming or operating the Booking. Japan Awaits may also require a Health Self-Assessment Form for any Client aged seventy (70) or above, or for any Client whose age, condition, mobility, or disclosed information may reasonably raise health, safety, or operational concerns. If the required Health Self-Assessment Form is not provided by the requested deadline, Japan Awaits may decline, modify, or cancel the affected Service without liability.

18.5 Fitness Warranty by the Agency

By confirming a Booking, the Agency represents and warrants that all Clients are physically and medically fit to participate in the confirmed Services, except for conditions expressly disclosed to and accepted by Japan Awaits in writing. The Agency further warrants that it has communicated all relevant physical requirements, walking conditions, accessibility limitations, safety requirements, and insurance requirements to its Clients before confirming the sale. Japan Awaits is not a medical provider and does not provide medical advice. Any acceptance of a Booking by Japan Awaits shall not be interpreted as confirmation that a Client is medically fit or physically suitable to participate.

18.6 Right to Deny or Terminate Service On-Site

Japan Awaits, its guides, tour coordinators, drivers, representatives, or Suppliers may refuse, suspend, modify, or terminate a Client’s participation in part or all of the Services on-site if, in their reasonable judgment, the Client:

  • Is not physically fit for the itinerary or activity;
  • Appears unable to participate safely;
  • Has an undisclosed or insufficiently disclosed medical, mobility, or accessibility condition;
  • Shows symptoms that may present a serious health or infectious disease risk;
  • Cannot keep pace with the itinerary in a manner that affects safety or group operation;
  • Requires support or equipment that was not disclosed or arranged in advance;
  • Fails to follow safety, guide, supplier, venue, or transportation instructions; or
  • Creates risk to themselves, other Clients, guides, drivers, Suppliers, or the public.

In such circumstances, Japan Awaits shall not be required to provide any refund, compensation, replacement service, or alternative arrangement for the unused portion of the Services. All additional costs arising from such refusal, suspension, modification, or termination shall be borne solely by the Agency or Client, including but not limited to taxi fares, private transportation, hotel return costs, ambulance or emergency response costs, hospital costs, guide waiting time, vehicle overtime, supplier penalties, cancellation fees, and administrative handling costs.

18.7 Emergency Medical Assistance

In the event of illness, injury, accident, suspected infectious disease, medical emergency, or other health-related incident, Japan Awaits may provide reasonable assistance where practicable, including contacting emergency services, medical providers, the Agency, hotels, Suppliers, local authorities, or relevant support contacts. Such assistance is provided as a practical support measure only and shall not constitute an assumption of financial, medical, legal, or operational liability by Japan Awaits. All medical expenses, emergency transportation costs, hospitalization costs, medication costs, interpretation costs, repatriation costs, extended accommodation costs, replacement transportation costs, and other related expenses shall be borne solely by the Agency or Client.

18.8 Mandatory Travel Medical Insurance

The Agency shall be responsible for ensuring that all Clients participating in Services arranged by Japan Awaits obtain appropriate and sufficient travel insurance coverage before the first service date. Travel insurance should be valid for travel in Japan and should be suitable for the Client’s individual circumstances. Coverage should include, where applicable:

  • Medical treatment and emergency medical expenses;
  • Personal injury or accidental death;
  • Emergency rescue and evacuation;
  • Repatriation;
  • Hospitalization costs;
  • Trip interruption;
  • Trip cancellation;
  • Loss of or damage to baggage and personal belongings;
  • Personal liability; and
  • Other travel-related risks.

The Agency and Clients are strongly encouraged to obtain travel insurance coverage at the time of reservation that includes protection against potential financial losses arising from unforeseen cancellation, interruption, or other covered travel events, including where applicable non-refundable deposits, booking costs, or cancellation fees. Certain events beyond the reasonable control of Japan Awaits, its Suppliers, or other parties involved in service delivery may result in changes, delays, cancellations, or additional costs. Such events may include, but are not limited to:

  • Natural disasters;
  • Severe weather conditions;
  • Earthquakes, floods, or other environmental events;
  • Epidemics or public health emergencies;
  • War, terrorism, civil unrest, or government restrictions;
  • Transportation disruption;
  • Supplier or venue closures;
  • Industrial disputes; or
  • Other unusual and unforeseeable circumstances beyond the reasonable control of Japan Awaits or its Suppliers.

In such circumstances, cancellation charges, non-refundable supplier costs, or other unrecoverable expenses may apply in accordance with the applicable booking terms, supplier conditions, and cancellation policies. Clients are therefore encouraged to ensure their travel insurance provides appropriate protection against such potential losses. Japan Awaits acts as a local service coordinator and destination management company. Japan Awaits shall not be financially responsible for any Client’s medical expenses, emergency assistance costs, repatriation expenses, insurance limitations, denied insurance claims, cancellation losses, or uninsured costs. The Agency shall be responsible for communicating the importance of appropriate travel insurance coverage to its Clients and shall indemnify and hold Japan Awaits harmless from any claim, loss, cost, expense, damage, liability, complaint, or demand arising from the Agency’s failure to ensure appropriate insurance coverage or communicate relevant insurance requirements.

19. Client Conduct and Legal Compliance

The Agency shall ensure that all Clients comply with Japanese laws, immigration requirements, customs rules, local regulations, venue rules, supplier rules, guide instructions, transportation rules, and socially accepted standards of conduct. Japan Awaits may refuse, suspend, terminate, or remove a Client from any Service without refund if the Client:

  • Violates Japanese law or local regulations;
  • Possesses, uses, transports, or distributes prohibited substances;
  • Violates immigration, customs, quarantine, or entry requirements;
  • Harasses, threatens, abuses, or endangers any person;
  • Damages property;
  • Disrupts service delivery;
  • Fails to follow reasonable instructions; or
  • Engages in culturally inappropriate, unsafe, illegal, or offensive conduct.

If a Client violates local law, becomes involved in a legal, medical, immigration, safety, behavioral, or emergency incident, Japan Awaits may provide reasonable emergency assistance where practicable. All costs arising from such incident shall be borne solely by the Agency or Client, including but not limited to medical expenses, transportation, translation, legal assistance, accommodation, supplier penalties, replacement arrangements, guide waiting time, overtime, vehicle charges, administrative handling, and any third-party cost. Japan Awaits shall not be liable for any loss, penalty, detention, deportation, missed service, missed flight, medical consequence, legal consequence, or additional cost arising from Client conduct, legal violation, negligence, health condition, or failure to follow instructions.

20. Force Majeure

Japan Awaits shall not be liable for any failure, delay, cancellation, loss, damage, additional cost, or inability to perform any obligation caused by a Force Majeure Event. Force Majeure Events include, but are not limited to:

  • Earthquake;
  • Tsunami;
  • Typhoon;
  • Flood;
  • Volcanic eruption;
  • Fire;
  • Severe weather;
  • Natural disaster;
  • Pandemic;
  • Epidemic;
  • Public health emergency;
  • Quarantine restriction;
  • War;
  • Terrorism;
  • Civil unrest;
  • Riot;
  • Strike;
  • Labor dispute;
  • Government order;
  • Government restriction;
  • Border closure;
  • Visa suspension;
  • Airport closure;
  • Port closure;
  • Railway suspension;
  • Road closure;
  • Transportation disruption;
  • Supplier closure;
  • Venue closure;
  • Utility failure;
  • System failure outside Japan Awaits’ control; or
  • Any other event beyond the reasonable control of Japan Awaits.

In the event of Force Majeure, Japan Awaits may:

  • Modify the itinerary;
  • Substitute services;
  • Change timing;
  • Change routing;
  • Change suppliers;
  • Reschedule services;
  • Cancel affected services; or
  • Offer alternatives where reasonably possible.

Refunds in Force Majeure situations will be reviewed case by case and will be limited to recoverable amounts after deducting:

  • Non-refundable supplier costs;
  • Actual costs already paid or committed;
  • Bank charges;
  • Payment processing fees;
  • Administrative costs; and
  • Any other unrecoverable expenses.

Japan Awaits will make reasonable efforts to assist the Agency and Clients in emergency situations. Such assistance may include communication support, alternative arrangement support, supplier coordination, route adjustment, or general local guidance. Any additional cost arising from Force Majeure assistance, alternative arrangements, extended stays, transportation changes, medical needs, evacuation, accommodation, meals, or other emergency support shall be borne by the Agency or Client unless otherwise agreed in writing.

21. Limitation of Liability

Japan Awaits acts as a destination management company coordinating and managing Services with local Suppliers. Japan Awaits does not own or directly control all hotels, restaurants, vehicles, venues, attractions, transportation providers, ticket providers, or other third-party Suppliers involved in the delivery of Services. To the maximum extent permitted by applicable law, Japan Awaits shall not be liable for any loss, damage, injury, accident, delay, inconvenience, expense, or claim caused by:

  • Acts or omissions of Suppliers;
  • Supplier negligence;
  • Supplier bankruptcy or closure;
  • Hotel, restaurant, venue, or attraction decisions;
  • Transportation delays or cancellations;
  • Traffic conditions;
  • Weather conditions;
  • Lost or damaged baggage;
  • Theft or loss of personal belongings;
  • Client negligence;
  • Client failure to follow instructions;
  • Client lateness or no-show;
  • Client health conditions;
  • Incomplete or inaccurate information provided by the Agency or Client; or
  • Events outside Japan Awaits’ reasonable control.

Japan Awaits’ liability, if any, shall be limited to the amount actually paid by the Agency to Japan Awaits for the affected Service giving rise to the claim. Japan Awaits shall not be liable for indirect, incidental, consequential, punitive, special, or economic losses, including loss of profit, loss of business, loss of goodwill, loss of opportunity, reputational damage, or client compensation paid by the Agency. Nothing in these Terms excludes liability where such exclusion is prohibited by applicable law.

22. Agency Indemnity

The Agency shall indemnify and hold harmless Japan Awaits, its directors, officers, employees, contractors, guides, representatives, and affiliated parties from and against any claim, loss, damage, liability, penalty, cost, or expense arising from:

  • The Agency’s breach of these Terms;
  • The Agency’s inaccurate or incomplete information;
  • The Agency’s failure to communicate relevant information to Clients;
  • The Agency’s failure to ensure appropriate travel insurance;
  • The Agency’s unauthorized representation of Japan Awaits’ Services;
  • The Agency’s disclosure of confidential information;
  • Client misconduct, negligence, or breach of rules;
  • Claims made by Clients beyond Japan Awaits’ confirmed obligations; or
  • Any resale, markup, promise, warranty, or representation made by the Agency without Japan Awaits’ written approval.

23. Confidentiality

The Agency must keep all confidential information received from Japan Awaits strictly confidential. Confidential information includes, but is not limited to:

  • Quotation logic;
  • Supplier information;
  • Guide information;
  • Operational processes;
  • Internal documents;
  • Itineraries marked confidential;
  • Training materials;
  • Partner materials;
  • Booking procedures;
  • Internal contact information;
  • Payment terms;
  • Commercial conditions;
  • Non-public product details; and
  • Non-public business plans.

The Agency must not disclose, publish, forward, reproduce, share, upload, or make available any confidential information to any third party without Japan Awaits’ prior written approval. The Agency may share necessary itinerary and service information with its Client only to the extent required for the Client to participate in the confirmed Services. The Agency must not disclose Japan Awaits’ NET Rates, supplier costs, guide fees, internal margins, Confidential Tariff, or operational information to Clients. The confidentiality obligations under this section shall survive termination of the business relationship.

24. Intellectual Property, Media Use, Non-Solicitation, and Non-Circumvention

24.1 Ownership of Japan Awaits Materials

All intellectual property, commercial information, operational materials, creative materials, and business know-how provided or developed by Japan Awaits shall remain the exclusive property of Japan Awaits. Such materials include, but are not limited to:

  • Itineraries;
  • Tour concepts;
  • Route designs;
  • Product descriptions;
  • Pricing documents;
  • Supplier lists;
  • Guide information;
  • Operational procedures;
  • Training materials;
  • Sales materials;
  • Photos and videos;
  • Proposals;
  • Sample itineraries;
  • Custom itineraries;
  • Internal documentation;
  • Partner onboarding materials; and
  • Any non-public commercial or operational information.

No ownership, license, transfer, or intellectual property right is granted to the Agency except as expressly permitted under these Terms.

24.2 Permitted Use of Media Materials

The Agency may use photos, videos, descriptions, itinerary content, and other media materials provided by Japan Awaits solely for the purpose of marketing, selling, and supporting the specific Japan Awaits Services for which such materials were provided. The Agency must not use Japan Awaits materials:

  • To advertise tours operated by another DMC, supplier, or competitor;
  • To create competing products;
  • To misrepresent the operator of the Services;
  • To promote unconfirmed services;
  • To imply exclusivity where no exclusivity exists;
  • To market routes, suppliers, venues, or experiences outside the scope approved by Japan Awaits;
  • On third-party platforms without Japan Awaits’ written approval; or
  • After termination of the Agency relationship, unless expressly approved in writing.

Japan Awaits may require the Agency to remove, correct, or discontinue any use of Japan Awaits materials at any time.

24.3 Working with Japan Awaits’ Local Partners

Japan Awaits works with a network of local guides, suppliers, transportation providers, venues, and other operational partners to deliver reliable and high-quality experiences for guests. Many of these relationships are developed through Japan Awaits’ local knowledge, operational experience, and long-term collaboration with partners throughout Japan. To maintain service quality and avoid operational misunderstandings, Agencies are expected to coordinate through Japan Awaits for services and arrangements introduced or managed by Japan Awaits. If an Agency wishes to discuss a direct relationship with a supplier, guide, or operational partner introduced by Japan Awaits, the Agency should first consult with Japan Awaits so that both parties can maintain clear communication and protect the quality of service provided to guests. This does not prevent Agencies from working with existing suppliers, guides, or business contacts that they independently developed outside of Japan Awaits.

24.4 Protection of Confidential Information and Business Relationships

Japan Awaits provides Agencies with local expertise, operational knowledge, supplier relationships, customized recommendations, and other resources developed through experience in Japan. Agencies agree to respect the confidential information and business relationships shared by Japan Awaits and not use such information to intentionally bypass Japan Awaits or arrange substantially similar services independently for the purpose of avoiding Japan Awaits’ role. The purpose of this section is to protect the trust, service quality, and long-term cooperation between Japan Awaits and its Agency Partners.

24.5 Remedies for Breach

The Agency acknowledges that any breach of this Article may cause commercial harm, loss of business opportunity, supplier relationship issues, reputational damage, or other losses. In the event of breach, Japan Awaits may suspend or terminate the Agency relationship, cancel or pause pending requests or Bookings, and seek recovery of any direct losses, costs, legal fees, supplier penalties, or damages arising from the breach, to the extent permitted by applicable law.

25. Privacy and Guest Information

The Agency is responsible for ensuring that it has obtained all necessary consent and authorization to share Client information with Japan Awaits. Japan Awaits may use Client information as necessary to:

  • Review requests;
  • Prepare Quotations;
  • Arrange Services;
  • Coordinate with Suppliers;
  • Communicate operational details;
  • Fulfill confirmed Bookings;
  • Provide emergency support; and
  • Process payments, cancellations, refunds, or complaints.

The Agency must not provide unnecessary sensitive personal information unless required for operational, medical, dietary, accessibility, safety, or service-related reasons. Japan Awaits will handle personal information in accordance with applicable privacy laws and its internal data handling practices.

26. No Unauthorized Representation

The Agency must not represent that it is an employee, branch, subsidiary, legal representative, exclusive agent, or official office of Japan Awaits unless expressly authorized in writing. The Agency must not make promises, guarantees, warranties, discounts, refund commitments, cancellation exceptions, service upgrades, or operational commitments on behalf of Japan Awaits without prior written approval. Japan Awaits is not bound by unauthorized statements made by the Agency to Clients or third parties.

27. Compliance with Laws

The Agency must comply with all applicable laws, regulations, licensing requirements, consumer protection rules, travel industry rules, anti-bribery laws, anti-corruption laws, sanctions laws, and data protection laws applicable to its business and resale of Japan Awaits’ Services. The Agency is responsible for ensuring that its sale of Japan Awaits’ Services to Clients complies with the laws of the jurisdiction where the Agency operates and where the Client purchases the Services.

28. Complaints

Any complaint must be submitted by the Agency to Japan Awaits in writing within fourteen (14) calendar days after the completion of the relevant Service. The written complaint must include:

  • Booking reference;
  • Client name;
  • Service date;
  • Clear description of the issue;
  • Supporting evidence;
  • Relevant photos, documents, or correspondence; and
  • Specific remedy requested.

Complaints not submitted within fourteen (14) calendar days may be rejected. The Agency must give Japan Awaits a reasonable opportunity to investigate and respond before offering compensation, refund, credit, or settlement to the Client on behalf of Japan Awaits. Japan Awaits is not responsible for any compensation, promise, refund, goodwill gesture, or settlement offered by the Agency to the Client without Japan Awaits’ prior written approval.

29. Dispute Resolution

The parties shall first attempt to resolve any dispute, controversy, or claim arising out of or relating to these Terms, any Quotation, Booking, Service, payment, cancellation, or business relationship through good-faith negotiation. Either party may initiate negotiation by providing written notice of the dispute to the other party. If the dispute is not resolved within thirty (30) calendar days after written notice, the dispute shall be submitted to arbitration in Japan, unless the parties agree otherwise in writing. The arbitration shall be administered by the Japan Commercial Arbitration Association (JCAA) in accordance with its applicable commercial arbitration rules. Unless otherwise agreed:

  • The seat of arbitration shall be Yokohama, Japan;
  • The language of arbitration shall be English;
  • The number of arbitrators shall be one;
  • The governing law shall be the laws of Japan; and
  • The arbitral award shall be final and binding on both parties.

Nothing in this section prevents Japan Awaits from seeking urgent injunctive or interim relief from a court of competent jurisdiction where necessary to protect confidential information, intellectual property, payment rights, or business interests.

30. Termination or Suspension

Japan Awaits may suspend or terminate the Agency relationship, cancel pending requests, refuse new requests, or require advance payment if the Agency:

  • Fails to pay on time;
  • Breaches these Terms;
  • Discloses confidential information;
  • Provides inaccurate information;
  • Misrepresents Services to Clients;
  • Causes repeated operational issues;
  • Fails to respond within required timelines;
  • Creates reputational, legal, financial, or operational risk; or
  • Acts in a manner inconsistent with Japan Awaits’ standards.

Termination does not affect any accrued payment obligation, confidentiality obligation, indemnity obligation, or liability arising before termination.

31. Order of Priority

If there is any conflict between these Terms and a specific written Quotation, invoice, booking confirmation, supplier condition, or product-specific policy, the more specific written condition shall apply to the relevant Booking.

32. Changes to These Terms

Japan Awaits may update these Terms from time to time to reflect changes in its services, operational procedures, supplier requirements, payment processes, legal requirements, or business policies.

The updated version will apply from the effective date stated in the updated Terms, unless Japan Awaits confirms otherwise in writing.

For confirmed Bookings, the terms and conditions stated in the applicable quotation, invoice, booking confirmation, supplier condition, or written agreement will continue to apply to that Booking, unless a change is required by law, supplier policy, safety concern, or mutual written agreement.

By continuing to submit requests, confirm bookings, or work with Japan Awaits after updated Terms have been issued, the Agency acknowledges and agrees to the updated Terms.

33. Governing Law

These Terms and any dispute arising out of or relating to these Terms, any Booking, Quotation, Service, payment, cancellation, or business relationship shall be governed by the laws of Japan, without regard to conflict of law principles.

34. Acceptance

By submitting an inquiry, application, quotation request, booking request, amendment request, payment, or other instruction to Japan Awaits, the Agency confirms that it accepts and agrees to be bound by these Terms. The Agency further confirms that it is responsible for communicating all relevant booking conditions, cancellation policies, insurance requirements, guest responsibilities, accessibility limitations, and service limitations to its Clients before confirming the sale of any Japan Awaits Service.