Japan should present no language barrier for English speakers visiting the country, according to Yumi Takakubo from the Japan National Tourist Organization.

Everyone in Japan learns English at school for six years, so even people in remote areas should be able to understand if you speak slowly, she says. Look for signs in English at airports, train stations and hotels.

A visit to Japan is also becoming more affordable, Takakubo told a meeting at Intrepid Travel in London. The JNTO has published details of prices. See www.jnto.go.jp/affordable.

Intrepid, which was overall joint winner of the UK Responsible Tourism Awards 2006, has a new Japan Active Adventure tour for 2007. Participants can 'Learn about sumo wrestling in Tokyo, hike around Mount Fuji, mountain bike and sea kayak in Izu, and explore tranquil Kyoto.'