If you’re traveling to Japan or other parts of Asia and doing some trip planning there’s a good chance that you have come across Klook during your research. This travel booking company has emerged as a popular platform for travelers, offering a vast array of activities, tours, and travel deals.
Its rapid rise to prominence has many asking: “Is Klook legit?” This isn’t just about money but also about making the most of our travel time.
As travelers, we need platforms we can trust, especially when making large purchases such as the Japan Rail Pass, or a week-long hotel reservation so it’s prudent to check if Klook is safe and legit before handing over your credit card details.
Next, we’ll delve into Klook’s offerings, assess its reliability, and provide a clear verdict on its legitimacy. So, before you consider your next booking, let’s get some answers.
Note: If you are in a rush, and just need confirmation about Klook’s legitimacy, you can safely rest assured that the company is the real deal and head back to Klook to make your booking. (don’t forget to check out their coupon page for some discounts before you checkout)
And if you want the full details about Klook, then read on. We have you covered.
Is Klook Legit?
Absolutely. Since its inception in 2014, Klook has grown exponentially and is now one of the leading travel service platforms globally. They’ve built partnerships with thousands of operators worldwide, and their platform processes millions of bookings yearly.
Their transparency, with displayed customer reviews for each activity or service, provides an added layer of trust. Plus, they have a responsive customer service team that aids travelers with queries or issues.
People often wonder about the legitimacy of Klook, especially when they spot ticket prices that are notably lower than those on official vendor websites. Take the Japan Rail Pass, for example; Klook offers it at the most competitive price, and they are also the only supplier to our knowlegde that have offered to sell at the lower price right up until the end of September 30th, after with a massive price hike kicks in (most other JR pass sellers plan to rise prices a few days earlier)
While Klook might seem like a new name in the West, it’s noteworthy that this platform has been a prominent player in Southeast Asia since its inception in 2014. So It’s not just a fleeting name in the travel industry; by the close of 2021, Klook had astonishingly processed over 80 million global bookings.
The intriguing aspect is how Klook manages to present tickets and unique cultural experiences at such discounted rates. While its pricing strategy remains closely guarded, whispers suggest that its focus on vendor partnerships might be the secret sauce. The best part? These discounts directly benefit travelers.
Still skeptical about Klook’s credibility? Here’s something to consider: Klook isn’t just a name in the travel domain but a recognized brand with offices spanning more than 20 nations. It has garnered attention and accolades from distinguished media houses, including Forbes, CNBC, Wall Street Journal, South China Morning Post, and Travel Daily News, to name a few.
What is Klook?
Klook is a travel services platform that enables users to discover and book travel activities and attractions in various destinations around the world. Founded in 2014, Klook quickly gained prominence among travelers, thanks to its user-friendly interface and a vast array of offerings from city tours, theme park tickets, and local experiences to transportation services.
The platform gives travelers a seamless and convenient way to enhance their trips by making accessible local experiences just a few clicks away.
Who runs Klook?
Klook was founded by Eric Gnock Fah, Bernie Xiong, and Ethan Lin. The trio has since led the company to its current status as one of the leading travel platforms globally. They are supported by a team of professionals managing various aspects of the business.
Klooks User Reviews
One aspect where klook really stands out is the high number of quality reviews from its users on all listings. it’s not unusual to find thousands of reviews and user photos on a single listing.
And we have found that many of the user reviews are useful and contain practical information. For example for many of the regional Japan rail passes, user reviews on Klook will give tips or even instructions with photos on how to use a ticket machine or direct to a ticket exchange counter.
How Does Klook Work?
Klook operates primarily through its website and mobile app. Users can search for activities and services based on their destination. Once a destination is chosen, Klook displays a list of available activities, complete with descriptions, customer reviews, and prices.
Booking on Klook is quite straightforward:
- Search & Discover: Input your destination to find available activities.
- Select & Book: Once you find an activity or service of interest, you can read more about what’s offered, check its availability on your travel dates, and see the total price.
- Receive a Voucher: After booking, you’ll receive a voucher via email. This voucher will contain all the details of your booking, including where to redeem or how to use it.
- Enjoy Your Activity: On the day of the activity, present your voucher (some might be mobile vouchers, while others might require a printout) to partake in the booked service.
The platform also offers discounts and promotions regularly, making it an attractive option for travelers looking for deals.
Our Experience with Klook
As seasoned travelers, our journeys have taken us through the length and breadth of Japan multiple times. We pride ourselves on our in-depth knowledge and understanding of Tokyo and the rest of this amazing country, yet on our recent expedition, Klook managed to elevate our experience even further.
We’ve been utilizing JR Rail Passes for years, but this time, we decided to try the regional JR passes offered through Klook. Not only did we find the platform’s process streamlined and efficient, but the pricing and the range of options also impressed us.
We opted for the JR Hokuriku Area Pass and the Hokkaido Rail Pass. These specific passes allowed us the flexibility to explore regions at our own pace while ensuring cost-effectiveness.
Klook is also our go-to platform for tickets to Shibuya Sky or the Tokyo Skytree observation decks (among others) and is generally the best platform for advanced tickets to attractions in Japan.
And if you plan to visit a lot of attractions, Klook’s combo passes, such as the Klook Osaka Pass (pictured above) can save you some decent money.
We also booked a traditional Kaiseki dining experience in Kyoto and an exclusive tour of an artisan sake brewery in Kobe through Klook.
Viator Vs Klook
Both Viator and Klook are reputable platforms offering a stack of travel activities and services. Generally, Klook excels at travel passes, attraction tickets and an expanding selection of restaurant bookings and deals. Viator specializes more in Tours and Experiences and has a more generous cancelation policy.
So the choice between the two often boils down to personal preference, destination, and the type of activity sought:
- Coverage: While both platforms have a wide reach, Klook tends to have a stronger presence in Asian destinations, while Viator, being older and a subsidiary of TripAdvisor, has extensive listings globally.
- Pricing: Prices can vary between the two platforms. It’s often recommended to compare prices for the same activity on both platforms.
- User Experience: Some users might prefer Klook’s modern interface, while others might lean towards Viator due to its integration with TripAdvisor reviews.
In essence, both platforms have their strengths, and the best choice might depend on the specific needs of the traveler.
How To Buy Japan Rail Passes With Klook?
Japan’s rail system is legendary. If you’re heading there, a Japan Rail Pass can be a godsend, allowing unlimited travel on most of the country’s extensive rail network. Buying a pass might seem a bit confusing at first, but with Klook, it’s pretty straightforward. Here’s a quick guide on how to secure your JR Pass using Klook:
- Choose Your Pass: Start by heading to the Japan Rail Pass page on Klook’s Website. Depending on your travel itinerary, select the type of pass you want—nationwide or regional. Remember, there are several regional passes like the Hokkaido Rail Pass, Kansai-Hiroshima Area Pass, and more.
- Select Duration & Class: JR passes come in different durations, typically 7, 14, or 21 days. Also, you can choose between the ordinary class and the first-class (green car) for a more luxurious experience.
- Complete the Booking: Once you’ve made your selection, proceed to checkout. Fill in the traveler details, double-check everything, and make the payment.
- Receive the Exchange Voucher: Instead of getting the actual JR Pass immediately, you’ll receive an Exchange Voucher. This is pretty standard procedure. Remember to print out this voucher and keep it safe!
- Exchange the Voucher in Japan: When you land in Japan, head to a JR Pass exchange office (they’re found in most major train stations and airports). Hand over your Exchange Voucher, show your passport (it’s crucial), and you’ll receive your actual JR Pass. The staff will also ask you to specify the start date of your pass.
- Ride the Rails!: With your JR Pass in hand, you’re free to explore Japan! Some trains might require seat reservations, so check in advance. Most shinkansen (bullet trains) and express trains have non-reserved seating sections, but if you want a guaranteed seat or are traveling during peak times, a reservation might be wise.
And that’s it! With Klook, the process of getting a JR Pass is simplified, ensuring you spend less time on logistics and more time soaking in the beauty of Japan.
More: Where To Buy Your JR Rail Pass: We Review The Best Online & Offline Options
Booking Hotels with Klook
Klook is renowned for its tour and activity bookings, but over the years, they’ve expanded their services, which now include hotel bookings. Their hotel platform isn’t as expansive as some of the dedicated hotel booking platforms, but it’s growing steadily. One of the advantages of booking hotels through Klook is the possibility of bundling experiences and accommodations. For instance, while booking a hotel in Bali, I could also conveniently book a full-day tour of Ubud or a Balinese cooking class.
The process is standard: select your destination, input your check-in and check-out dates, and browse through the available options. Each listing provides detailed information about the hotel, including amenities, photos, and guest reviews. Once you’ve made your choice, you proceed to payment, and a confirmation is sent directly to your email.
Is Klook a Travel Agency?
Klook operates more as a travel service platform than a traditional travel agency. While traditional agencies often curate and sell package holidays or offer personalized trip planning services, Klook primarily acts as a bridge connecting travelers with local operators and service providers. Their platform aggregates various travel-related services, from tours and activities to transport and accommodations, which users can book directly.
Is it Safe to Book on Klook?
Booking on Klook is as safe as booking on any other reputable online platform. They use secure payment gateways, ensuring that users’ financial information remains confidential. On top of that, the vouchers and confirmations are typically sent promptly upon booking.
As with any platform, it’s advisable to read the terms and conditions, especially regarding cancellations and refunds. It’s also beneficial to read previous customer reviews for the specific activity or service you’re interested in; these reviews can provide insight into the quality and reliability of the offering.
Using Klook in Japan
Japan is a popular destination with a stack of experiences, and Klook offers a wide variety of activities and services in the country. From booking the aforementioned JR Rail Pass to reserving spots in unique experiences like tea ceremonies in Kyoto, owl cafes in Tokyo, or hiking tours on Mt. Fuji, Klook has it all.
One of the significant advantages of using Klook in Japan is the convenience. Many local experiences in Japan might have language barriers, but by booking through Klook, you often get English-speaking guides or clear instructions in English, ensuring a smooth experience. On top of that some exclusive experiences or tickets, like the Studio Ghibli Museum in Tokyo, can be hard to come by, but Klook sometimes offers special access or easier booking processes for such sought-after attractions.
Pros of Using Klook
There are several benefits to using Klook, some of which include:
- Wide Array of Options: From popular tourist attractions to hidden local experiences, Klook offers a diverse range of activities and services in various destinations.
- User-Friendly Interface: Both the Klook website and mobile app are designed intuitively, making it easy for users to search, select, and book activities.
- Competitive Pricing: Klook often provides discounts and promotional deals, making certain activities and services more affordable compared to purchasing on-site or from other platforms.
- Instant Confirmations: Many of the bookings on Klook come with instant confirmation, reducing the uncertainty of waiting for a confirmation.
- Reliable Customer Reviews: The platform offers genuine customer reviews, helping potential users make informed decisions.
Cons of Using Klook
Like any platform, Klook has its drawbacks:
- Limited Offerings in Some Areas: While Klook has extensive listings in popular destinations, some off-the-beaten-path locations might have fewer options.
- Cancellation Policies: Some activities have strict cancellation policies, making it challenging if plans change last minute.
- Service Fees: Occasionally, Klook might include service or booking fees which can increase the total price of an activity.
Customer Reviews of Klook
Customer reviews of Klook are generally positive. Users often praise the platform’s ease of use, the range of offerings, and the competitive prices. The instant confirmation feature, where users receive immediate vouchers after booking, is particularly appreciated.
However, like all platforms, there are occasional negative reviews, often tied to specific experiences or services rather than the platform as a whole. Issues might arise from cancellations by local operators or misunderstandings about activity details. It’s always recommended to read through the reviews for specific activities of interest to get a balanced view.
What country is Klook from?
Klook originated in Hong Kong. The company has its roots in this bustling city and has expanded its operations globally over the years.
Is Klook a Chinese company?
Klook is not a Chinese company. It was founded in Hong Kong in 2014 by Eric Gnock Fah, Bernie Xiong, and Ethan Lin. While Hong Kong is a Special Administrative Region of China, it operates with a high degree of autonomy, and its businesses are distinct from those in mainland China.
Is it safe to book via Klook?
Yes, it is safe to book through Klook. The platform employs secure payment gateways to ensure users’ financial details are protected. Over the years, Klook has served millions of customers worldwide, building a reputation for reliability. It’s always good practice, however, to keep a copy of your booking details and any correspondence, should any issues arise.
Why did Klook cancel my booking?
There could be several reasons for a booking cancellation:
- Operational Changes: The local service provider may face unforeseen operational issues, prompting cancellations. For instance, a day tour might be cancelled due to bad weather.
- Insufficient Participants: Some group activities require a minimum number of participants. If this number isn’t reached, the activity might be cancelled.
- Technical Glitches: Rarely, technical errors might result in booking issues, leading to cancellations.
- Overbooking: On rare occasions, a service might be overbooked, and Klook would need to cancel and refund the affected bookings.
Whenever a booking is cancelled, Klook typically notifies the user promptly, providing an explanation and often offering alternatives or refunds.
What are the disadvantages of Klook?
While Klook offers many advantages, potential disadvantages include:
- Limited Options in Remote Areas: Klook’s offerings in less touristy areas might be limited compared to local agencies.
- Cancellation Fees: Depending on the activity, there could be strict cancellation policies with associated fees.
- Generalized Activities: Some travelers might feel that certain tours are too generic and lack the depth of specialized local operators.
- Reliance on Third-Party Providers: As Klook acts as a platform connecting travelers with local providers, the quality of experiences largely depends on these third-party operators.
How do I check my booking on Klook?
You can check your booking on Klook by:
- Logging into your account: After logging in, navigate to the ‘Bookings’ or ‘My Bookings’ section to view all your current and past reservations.
- Using the Klook App: If you’ve downloaded the Klook mobile app, you can access your bookings directly from the app.
- Email Confirmation: After every successful booking, Klook sends a confirmation email with all the details. This email serves as a record of your booking.
How Is Klook Unique From Other Platforms?
Klook differentiates itself in the crowded travel market with several features:
- Extensive Range of Activities: From basic sightseeing tours to exclusive local experiences, Klook’s offerings cater to a wide audience.
- Competitive Pricing: Regular deals, discounts, and promotional codes make it attractive for budget-conscious travelers.
- User Reviews: Authentic user reviews for each activity offer potential bookers valuable insights.
- Instant Booking Confirmations: The immediate confirmation feature for many of its activities ensures travelers can make last-minute plans with ease.
Refund from Klook
The ability to get a refund from Klook largely depends on the cancellation policy of the specific activity or service you’ve booked. Klook provides clear cancellation policies for each listing:
- Flexible Cancellation Policies: Some activities have a more lenient cancellation policy, allowing for full refunds if canceled within a specified time frame before the activity date.
- Strict Cancellation Policies: Other activities, especially those that require significant preparation or have limited slots, might have stricter policies where cancellations close to the date result in partial refunds or no refund at all.
- No Show: Typically, if a customer doesn’t show up for an activity without prior cancellation, no refund is given.
To initiate a refund, users typically need to log into their Klook account, navigate to the specific booking, and follow the cancellation/refund procedures. Refunds are generally processed to the original payment method.
Is Klook a travel agent?
Klook isn’t a traditional travel agent. Instead, it operates as an online travel platform or marketplace. While traditional travel agents curate and sell travel packages and might offer personalized trip planning services, Klook acts as a mediator connecting travelers with local tour operators, attractions, and other travel-related service providers. Users can directly book a wide range of activities and services via Klook, often at discounted prices.
How long does it take for Klook to confirm a booking?
The majority of bookings on Klook are confirmed instantly. As soon as a booking is made and payment is processed, users typically receive a voucher or confirmation email immediately.
However, there are instances, especially for unique or highly sought-after activities, where confirmation might take longer. In such cases, the activity’s listing will specify that there’s a waiting period for confirmation. If there’s a delay beyond the expected time, it’s advisable to contact Klook’s customer service for clarification.
Klook & international fees
Klook itself doesn’t charge international fees. However, when making a booking in a currency different from your credit card’s currency, your bank or credit card issuer might charge a foreign transaction fee. It’s always a good idea to check with your bank or credit card company about any potential international or foreign transaction fees before making a booking.
Is Klook only in Asia?
While Klook originated in Asia and has a strong presence in many Asian destinations, it’s not exclusive to the continent. Klook offers activities and services in numerous countries across the globe, including Europe, North America, Oceania, and Africa. From popular tourist destinations like Paris and New York to more remote locales, Klook’s reach is continually expanding.
Why is Klook called Klook?
Well, this has been a deep dive. But just one more thing you may be wondering before we close up the shop for the day. What’s with the kooky name? Why is it called Klook?
The name “Klook” is an abbreviation of “Keep Looking.” The founders chose this name to signify the curiosity and spirit of exploration that drives travelers. The platform’s essence is to encourage users to keep looking, discovering, and exploring new experiences, activities, and destinations.
