Service Guide & Policies (T&C)
Thank you for choosing Shooting Star Sightseeing Inc. To ensure a safe and comfortable experience, please review our terms and policies regarding payments, cancellations, and onboard rules before making a reservation.
Standard Conditions of Carriage
Our transportation services are provided in accordance with the standard conditions of carriage stipulated by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism of Japan.
📄 Standard General Charter Passenger Vehicle Conditions of Carriage (Charter Bus) 📄 Standard General Passenger Vehicle Conditions of Carriage (Private Charter)* Links above are available in Japanese (PDF).
Payment & Additional Expenses
Payment Methods
Upon confirmation of your reservation, we will issue an invoice. As a general rule, we request payment via bank transfer to our designated account at least one week prior to your departure date.
* For last-minute bookings from overseas or if you prefer to settle in cash on the day of service, please consult with us in advance so we can accommodate your needs flexibly.
Items Not Included in the Fare (Actual Costs & Additional Fees)
- Toll & Parking Fees: Customers are responsible for the actual costs of any highway tolls and parking fees incurred during the itinerary.
- Driver Accommodation: For overnight itineraries, the arrangement and actual cost of the driver's accommodation are the responsibility of the customer.
- Driver Meals & Tips (Gratuities): Customers are generally requested to cover the driver's meal and beverage expenses during the service period.
- Overtime Charges:
The standard service duration is based on a "10-hour period from the start to the end of the itinerary."
- If the scheduled end time is exceeded by 30 minutes or more, an additional overtime charge of 10,000 JPY (tax included) per hour will apply.
- Minor delays of less than 30 minutes (e.g., due to traffic congestion) will not incur additional charges and are provided as a complimentary service.
Cancellation Policy
In accordance with the standard conditions of carriage, the following cancellation fees will apply if you cancel a confirmed reservation for personal reasons. Please notify us as soon as possible.
| 14 to 8 days prior to the service date | 20% of the quoted fare |
|---|---|
| 7 days to 24 hours prior to the service date | 30% of the quoted fare |
| Within 24 hours to the day before service | 50% of the quoted fare |
| Day of service (including No-Shows) | 100% of the quoted fare |
Requests & On-Board Policies
- Strictly No Smoking: All our vehicles (buses and hire cars) are strictly non-smoking. We appreciate your cooperation in maintaining a clean and comfortable environment for everyone.
- Mineral Water Available: Bottled mineral water can be provided upon request at 100 JPY (tax included) per bottle. Please let us know in advance if you require this service.
Lost & Found Policy
If you realize you have left an item behind after disembarking, please contact us immediately. In accordance with Japanese law and our company regulations, we will handle lost items as follows:
Storage of Food, Drinks, and General Items
- Perishables & Beverages: For hygiene and safety reasons, food and drinks will be disposed of at our discretion 24 hours after discovery.
- Other Items: Items unclaimed for a certain period will be disposed of appropriately. If you do not wish to claim the item, please inform us, and we will securely dispose of it on your behalf.
Returning Lost Items
- Direct Pick-up: Please be sure to contact us in advance to schedule a pick-up time before visiting our company garage or head office. We may not be able to assist you if you arrive without prior notice.
- Shipping (Within Japan Only): We can ship the item to you upon advance payment of the handling and shipping fees (based on the package size). Please note that we do not ship overseas.
Valuables (Cash, Passports, etc.)
Valuables such as cash, securities, passports, and items containing personal information will be kept at our office for a maximum of 7 days after discovery, after which they will be promptly handed over to the local police station as lost property.
