My husband and I are planning a trip to Japan in the spring. We have been looking at organised tours and wondered if this is the best way to travel to Japan rather than organise accommodation and sightseeing ourselves. We are thinking perhaps three weeks in total for this trip.
Ask Away: Travelling Japan is easy

Subscribe to listen
Take a ride to Chureito Pagoda on Japan's excellent transport system to get this magnificent view of Mt Fuji.
Since you're experienced independent travellers, I'd say you're more than capable of taking on Japan yourselves. When it comes to booking hotels, read lots of reviews and look for places that are close to train stations - I found location to be most important factor. Rooms can be small but you won't spend much time in them.
One thing I did find hard at times was the lack of English-speaking people - I got by with a translator app and a bit of pidgin Japanese, but it was helpful to meet up with a friend who spoke the language properly.
I imagine being on a tour would make things a little less "lost in translation" - plus you can learn a lot from a local guide and experience things you might not have found yourselves.
But you needn't choose between the two - you could start with a shorter tour through one area and go independent for the rest of the trip.
I walked a lot in Japan - there are so many little details to take in - so considering that, I'd suggest Walk Japan, which offers walking tours from two to 11 days. They range in difficulty level so you can choose one that works for you. The company was founded by academics so there's a strong focus on history and culture. Many include stays in traditional Japanese inns, which is something I wish I'd experienced.
Whatever you decide, I'm sure you'll have an amazing time. Eat as much as you can!
Tweet us @NZHTravel or use the hashtag #NZHAskAway
Email your questions to askaway@nzherald.co.nz