A comprehensive analysis and proposal for TML's first international luxury experience.
Executive BriefBased on extensive research into Japan's seasons, pricing patterns, and logistics requirements, here are our options:
Recommendation: Autumn 2026 (November 10-17). Nine months to plan and sell. Stunning fall colors, comfortable weather, shoulder season pricing.
The classic route: modern metropolis (Tokyo), natural beauty & Mt. Fuji (Hakone), ancient culture (Kyoto). Connected by bullet train.
I've researched what Japan offers for groups of 10-20 entrepreneurs. Here's a curated menu: mix and match based on what resonates.
The moments that define the trip. Stories they'll tell for years.
30-minute flight circling Japan's sacred mountain. Unbeatable views, incredible photos. Weather dependent.
Drive Lamborghinis/Ferraris on scenic mountain roads near Mt. Fuji. Everyone drives.
Multi-course kaiseki in private tatami room. Maiko performance, traditional games. Time travel.
Watch wrestlers train at 6 AM. Stand feet away from 400-pound athletes. Rare access.
Race go-karts through Tokyo streets in costume. Shibuya, Roppongi, neon lights. Best content ever.
Japan's most famous course. Ocean views, Mt. Fuji backdrop. World-class conditions.
Drive on an F1-grade race track. Professional instruction, high-performance cars.
Traditional matcha ceremony in historic machiya. The philosophy of ichi-go ichi-e.
Learn katana techniques from a master. History, philosophy, actual sword work.
Morning zazen with monks at a working temple. Silence, stillness, presence.
Art of repairing pottery with gold. Embracing imperfection. Take home your creation.
Chef's choice at high-end counter. 15-20 pieces of the freshest fish. (Split groups for small counters)
A5 wagyu cooked tableside. Private room for groups. Perfect welcome dinner.
Fushimi district. 3+ breweries, unlimited tastings, learn the craft.
Yamazaki or Hakushu. VIP tour with premium tastings. Book 3+ months ahead.
Early morning guided tour. Tastings, history, best sushi breakfast. 6 AM start.
Guided tour through Tokyo's best Japanese pubs. 3-4 stops, local food, great bonding.
Immersive digital art museum. Walk through water, infinity rooms. Wonder and great photos.
Traditional inn with hot spring bath in room. Kaiseki dinner included. Pure luxury.
First-class bullet train. 200+ mph, Mt. Fuji views. The journey is the experience.
An opt-in experience for those interested. Japan's unique hospitality culture features conversation-focused venues where trained hostesses provide company, pour drinks, and facilitate socializing. Legal, mainstream business entertainment - but entirely optional.
Ultra-premium hospitality. Where Japan's elite entertain. Private rooms available. Champagne, conversation, impeccable service.
Curated tour for foreign executives. High-end club, then private karaoke with hostesses. Turnkey experience.
More accessible than Ginza. Booth seating, charming hostesses. Fun, lively. Foreigner-friendly options.
200+ tiny bars, 6 seats each. Curated crawl through Tokyo's most atmospheric neighborhood. Feels exclusive, costs nothing.
Options at different price points. All handle groups of 10-20 well.
Shinjuku. Excellent service, group-friendly, multiple restaurants.
Ginza area. More upscale, stunning views, great nightlife location.
"Lost in Translation" hotel. Iconic, exceptional, unmatched views.
Modern ryokan. Private onsen every room. Valley views. Meals included.
One of Japan's finest. Former imperial retreat. Exceptional everything.
Design-forward, cool vibe. Great rooftop bar. Central location.
Luxury Collection. Beautiful, private onsen, near Nijo Castle.
Riverfront. Japanese-Western fusion. Michelin restaurant. Best of the best.
Based on accommodation level and experience selection. All include 7 days, all meals, transport, guides, and core experiences.
Excellent experience at smart price point. First-time TML trip positioning.
The sweet spot. Premium accommodations, all hero experiences, nightlife included.
No compromises. Top-tier everything. The ultimate Japan experience.
My recommendation: Start with the $15,000 Enhanced tier. It delivers exceptional value, includes both hero experiences (helicopter + supercar), covers the nightlife component, and positions TML as premium without being inaccessible.
Note: All pricing excludes international flights. Guests arrange their own travel to/from Japan.
Per-person economics with 30% War Room cut and 10% organization margin.
What each ticket generates
Total numbers at minimum viable group size
Key Insight: All three tiers work financially at 10 guests. The Enhanced tier ($15K) offers the best balance: $45K for War Room, $15K organization fee, and a comfortable $10K buffer. At 15+ guests, margins become even healthier.
Currency Note: Current rate is ¥152/USD. Analysts project ¥152-156/USD through Q4 2026. All cost estimates use ¥155/USD baseline with 10% buffer built in. Historical 5-year range (¥103-162) shows volatility is possible, but current macro environment favors stability.
$12K (accessible) vs $15K (sweet spot) vs $20K (ultra).
November 10-17 works well for autumn foliage. Need to confirm for quotes.
All tiers work at 10 guests, but margins are tight. Recommend 12 minimum, target 15-18 for optimal group energy.
Everything shown is available. What's must-have vs nice-to-have?
The above calculations use 30% TWR + 10% organization as baseline. What fee structure works best for TML going forward? This affects final ticket pricing and margins.
Ready to discuss and refine whenever you are.