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JAPAN
SMALL GROUP TRIPS
ANCIENT AND MODERN JAPAN
15 days
Tripcode: AOP
Exploring the varied attractions of this vibrant and traditional
nation: Zen gardens, grand mountains and big cities
Japan is a fascinating blend of old and new; its unique culture
and enduring religious ideals combine charmingly with an all-embracing
reverence for the modern world. Away from its bustling and intriguingly
futuristic cities, Japan is a land of great scenic beauty. Our itinerary
begins in Kyoto, one of the most splendid cities in Asia: here we
enjoy the serenity of its countless temples and relax in its superb
Zen gardens. From Kyoto we make daytrips to Nara and the Peace Memorial
Park in Hiroshima. Using the highly efficient train system, we explore
Japan's rarely visited scenic heartland of mountains, spas and temples,
before ending our trip in the extraordinary city of Tokyo.
Itinerary
Day 1 Depart London.
Day 2 Arrive Kansai; transfer to Kyoto, an atmospheric city set
amidst beautiful hills.
Day 3 City tour of Kyoto including Zen gardens.
Day 4 Free in Kyoto to explore shrines and temples.
Day 5 Day trip to Nara, ancient capital of Japan.
Day 6 Day trip to Hiroshima, now rebuilt after WWII; visit Peace
Memorial Park and Miyajima.
Day 7 Kyoto to Takayama; afternoon sightseeing.
Day 8 Free in Takayama, amid the 'Japanese Alps', famed for its
morning market and traditional architecture.
Day 9 Train to Matsumoto; afternoon sightseeing in a town noted
for its 15th century Black Castle.
Day 10 Travel by train to spa town of Yudanaka; explore the mountainous
countryside with a chance to see the famous Snow Monkeys.
Day 11 Train to Tokyo.
Day 12 Optional trip to Nikko or Mount Fuji.
Day 13 A full day's city tour of Tokyo including the Senso-ji Temple.
Day 14 Free in Tokyo.
Day 15 Fly to London.
Dates and Prices
Depart | Return | Price | Fri, 26th Sep 08 | Fri, 10th Oct 08 | £2,688 | Fri, 10th Oct 08 | Fri, 24th Oct 08 | £2,738 | Fri, 20th Mar 09 | Fri, 3rd Apr 09 | £2,788 | Fri, 27th Mar 09 | Fri, 10th Apr 09 | £2,788 | Fri, 3rd Apr 09 | Fri, 17th Apr 09 | £2,838 | Fri, 10th Apr 09 | Fri, 24th Apr 09 | £2,778 | updated: 22/07/08 09:13:26. |
SHOGUN TRAIL
Ref: JS (2008 season)
14 days Hotels/Ryokans/Guesthouses - Treasures of the Orient
Introduction
Nowhere do ancient traditions and rituals contrast so vividly with
modern day living as in Japan. Modern Japan, where neon lights shine
over busy cities, is contrasted with the peace and tranquillity
of little visited rural regions. This tour affords the opportunity
to visit the major highlights, but then goes beyond the tourist
trail to uncover the unexpected charm and beauty of one of these
rural areas, Hirado, offering a real insight into this fascinating
country.
Tour information
In the Shadow of Mount Fuji
In the exciting city of Tokyo, we contrast 21st century technology
with the ancient palaces and temples that lie side by side. The
charming town of Hakone is our base for exploring the picturesque
National Park. We take a ride by funicular railway and cable car
for views of the magnificent Mount Fuji, before descending to serene
Lake Ashi, where a boat ride across the lake takes us to the Tokaido
Trail. We have the opportunity to walk this ancient route, in the
footsteps of the Shogun warriors. We spend 3 nights in Kyoto, the
ancient capital of Japan, where time is spent marvelling at some
of the 2000 temples in this wonderful city. One day is left free
to travel further afield; perhaps to ancient Nara, Osaka or Himeji
Castle.
Hiroshima & Nagasaki
The 'Shinkansen' or Bullet train takes us to one of the most inspirational
places in Japan, Hiroshima. Completely devastated when it became
the target for the first atomic bomb, it has literally risen from
the ashes to become once more a vibrant city with a moving memorial
park and incredible museum. Continuing by train we head for Nagasaki,
a trading port which for over 200 years remained Japan's only contact
with the outside world. Much of the Dutch and Portuguese influence
can still be seen today in the Meiji Period Residences that overlook
what is perhaps the most scenic harbour in Japan.
'Ninety Nine Islands'
Leaving Nagasaki we travel by boat to the charming harbour at Hirado.
We spend time in this beautiful and peaceful area, discovering an
unspoilt natural environment with towering cliffs and basalt columns
and cruising through the fabled 'Ninety Nine Islands'. There is
a museum dedicated to the traditional whaling community and local
lifestyle, whilst in the evening we have an opportunity to take
part in one of the great Japanese traditions, the hot spring bath!
Itinerary
1 Fly London/Tokyo.
2 Arrive Tokyo.
3 In Tokyo; walking/boat tour.
4 Optional excursion to Kamakura.
5 Drive to Hakone; visit Lake Ashi.
6 Bullet train to Kyoto; PM sightseeing tour.
7 In Kyoto; visit temples.
8 Free day with chance to visit Nara, Osaka or Himeji.
9 Train to Nagasaki, via Hiroshima and the Peace Park.
10 In Nagasaki.
11 Train to Sasebo; ferry to Hirado.
12 In Hirado; sightseeing tour of Hirado and Ikitski Islands.
13 In Hirado; walking tour; bus & train to Fukuoka.
14 Fly London.
Accommodation and Meals
9nts hotel, 2nts Ryokan, 1nt guesthouse; 12 breakfasts & 4 dinners
included.
Transport
Train/Bus/Tram-car/On foot/Boat.
Comments
A comprehensive itinerary utilising a variety of transport, especially
Japan's efficient rail system, uncovering the delights of this fascinating
country.
Group Size
Approx. 12 to 16.
Tour Staff
Tour Leader/ interpreter.
Dates and Prices
Depart | Return | Price | Wed, 23rd Jul 08 | Tue, 5th Aug 08 | £2,242 | Wed, 13th Aug 08 | Tue, 26th Aug 08 | £2,242 | Wed, 3rd Sep 08 | Tue, 16th Sep 08 | £2,042 | Wed, 17th Sep 08 | Tue, 30th Sep 08 | £2,042 | Wed, 1st Oct 08 | Tue, 14th Oct 08 | £2,042 | Wed, 15th Oct 08 | Tue, 28th Oct 08 | £2,042 | Wed, 29th Oct 08 | Tue, 11th Nov 08 | £2,042 | Wed, 18th Mar 09 | Tue, 31st Mar 09 | £2,065 | Wed, 25th Mar 09 | Tue, 7th Apr 09 | £2,065 | Wed, 1st Apr 09 | Tue, 14th Apr 09 | £2,065 | Wed, 6th May 09 | Tue, 19th May 09 | £2,065 | Wed, 20th May 09 | Tue, 2nd Jun 09 | £2,065 | Wed, 3rd Jun 09 | Tue, 16th Jun 09 | £2,065 | Wed, 8th Jul 09 | Tue, 21st Jul 09 | £2,065 | Wed, 22nd Jul 09 | Tue, 4th Aug 09 | £2,275 | updated: 22/07/08 09:13:40. |
Return to main Japan page
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Group trips usually have between 10 - 18 people, with a good
mix of male and female, singles and couples, with most aged
between 25 - 55. They are run by a number of specialist companies
that we have worked with closely for many years. If you are
travelling by yourself, or enjoy the sociablility of other
like minded travellers, these are the trips for you.
All prices include air fares from London.
Footloose can book these trips for
you, at no extra cost, and give you the benefit of our personal
advice and service. We can also organise different flights
and add-on excursions.
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