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Land of the Rising Sun |
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A Group tour seeking out the real Japan. |
Ref: JP01
14 days
from £1595 (minimum 1 passengers)
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Destination:
Japan
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Japan, as a travel destination, often surprises visitors by revealing herself to be one of the most unspoilt, affordable and enduringly charming nations in all of Asia. Both in the timeless rhythms of her ancient rural folk traditions and on the bustling streets of her modern cities Japan’s rich and vibrant culture never ceases to fascinate. For the curious traveller, whether it be in contemplating the subtle beauty of her Shinto shrines and peaceful Zen gardens, sampling her world renowned cuisine or delving into the reasons behind her erstwhile economic success, there is indeed much here to intrigue. For many, however, it is neither her fine architecture nor her unsung natural beauty that will provide the most lasting memory of a visit to the Land of the Rising Sun but instead the overwhelming friendliness, courtesy and often disarming sense of fun of the Japanese people themselves. Today Japan is a land in transition and there has perhaps never been a better time to visit.
This comprehensive and carefully crafted tour aims to seek out the ‘real’ Japan by striking a balance between town and country thereby revealing both her known and hidden faces. Allowing ample time to experience the majesty and charm of Kyoto with its myriad temples and graceful gardens we also visit the ancient capital of Nara. We then head south via the beguiling island of Miyajima to Hiroshima from where we cross over to Kyushu, the third largest island of the Japanese archipelago and a place of myths, legends and geological wonders. In the glorious Bay of Beppu we see the Japanese enthusiasm for onsen, (bathing in therapeutic hot springs), in all its playful, and often bizarre glory before heading inland to the awe-inspiring, volcanic region of Mt. Aso, the largest caldera in the world. Continuing on through the farming villages of this beautiful rural hinterland we travel via Kumamoto to the delightful and cosmopolitan city of Nagasaki with its magnificent natural harbour. Our tour ends by heading north past Mt. Fuji to sample some of the excitement and creative energy that is Tokyo, Japan’s invigorating and unforgettable capital city. |
Day 1 | Arrive Kyoto. (Kyoto) | Day 2 | Introductory sightseeing tour of Kyoto. (Kyoto) | Day 3 | A day at leisure to further explore Kyoto's exquisite temples and gardens. (Kyoto) | Day 4 | A morning walking tour of Nara including a visit to the Giant Buddha at Todaiji Temple and a stroll among the shrines and woodlands of Nara's ancient Deer Park. (Kyoto) | Day 5 | By ‘Bullet Train’ to Hiroshima. En route we visit Korakuen garden in Okayama and the Peace Museum in Hiroshima before arriving at the magical island of Miyajima. Spend the night on the island. (Miyajima) | Day 6 | Time to explore Miyajima island and the enchanting Mt. Misen before continuing to Beppu with its geothermal wonders. (Beppu) | Day 7 | A full day to soak up the exhilarating atmosphere of this remarkable town. Hot baths, sand baths, mud baths and tropical gardens to mention nothing of its other bizarre amusements - including an outlandish sex museum. (Beppu) | Day 8 | Inland by train to the volcanic peaks and rural hamlets of Mt. Aso . Ascend to the crater rim of Mt. Nakedake. (Miyaji) | Day 9 | Via Kumamoto's Suizenji Garden to the colourful and friendly city of Nagasaki. (Nagasaki) | Day 10 | A free day to explore this friendly town with its fascinating historical links to the West. Of particular note is the charming hillside Glover Garden Park. (Nagasaki) | Day 11 | Via Fukuoka we speed our way by ‘Bullet Train’ to Tokyo, on the way passing Japan's best preserved castle, Himeiji, and her finest landmark, Mount Fuji. (Tokyo) | Day 12 | A full day sightseeing tour of Tokyo including the lively Senso Ji temple, a boat cruise on the Sumida River, a stroll through Hama Rikyu Garden and a performance of Kabuki theatre. (Tokyo) | Day 13 | A free day for shopping or individual sightseeing. (Tokyo) | Day 14 | The Oriental Caravan heads home... |
Departures Between | Price from | 22 Oct 04
18 Mar 05
01 Apr 05
21 Oct 05** | *£1595 | | *Prices subject to confirmation |
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FLIGHT EXCLUSIVE PRICE
Accommodation
In Kyoto, Beppu, Nagasaki and Tokyo we stay in comfortable, tourist class hotels. In Miyaji we stay in a traditional, family run minshuku and on Miyajima island we stay in a characterful ryokan/guesthouse with availability of Japanese style accommodation. Twin share basis. Single supplement is not compulsory. If required a single supplement is available at a cost of £285.
Food and drink
One dinner and one breakfast are included in Miyaji. A 'farewell' meal is also included in Tokyo. Elsewhere, for reasons of convenience choice and flexibility, food is not included in the price. For most meals the tour leader will be on hand to suggest restaurants and, if necessary, gladly help with ordering meals. Although it is possible to eat more cheaply, and certainly possible to eat more expensively, most people find that around £15-25 a day is more than enough.
Mode of travel
We make full use of Japan’s enviably efficient rail system travelling by both 'bullet' and local trains. Also bus, taxi, boat and (optional) cable car.
Staff
Full services of Japanese-speaking leader from The Oriental Caravan plus local guides where applicable.
Group size
Minimum 6 - Maximum 14
Flights & Insurance
For information on insurance and flights please contact The Oriental Caravan.
Prices (land only)
Spring and autumn departures - £1595 (excluding int'l airfares)
**includes Kurama no Hi 'Fire' festival in Kyoto
This holiday is operated by The Oriental Caravan.
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Land of the Rising Sun
A Group tour seeking out the real Japan.
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