JAP130723/2 Destination Kyoto Discover the joys of Japan s ancient capital with a group of gay guys Ever dreamed of an authentic Japanese experience? Join us for a friendly, relaxed, small group experience. We ll take care of all the logistics, show you the best places, and give you the local insights that visitors rarely get to see. Enter temples and shrines, witness kabuki and tea ceremonies, stay in traditional inns and soak up the rich history in museums packed with treasures. Trip Duration: 3 Days Accommodation: Traditional Inns (2 nights) Trip dates: Sunday 23rd March Tuesday 25th March 2014 Trip Cost: USD$1,000; GBP 650; EURO 750; YEN99,000; Fast Facts Private Groups: Private group options are available for this trip Singles: A single supplement is available for this trip (ask our staff for more information) Leader: Expert local leader Welcome to www.ventureea.com:
Detailed Itinerary Day 1 We will meet you on arrival in Kyoto. We will transfer with you to our accommodation, Heianbo Ryokan, a comfortable traditional Japanese just an 8 minute walk from the main train station. We will get to experience how a typical family lives in the ryokan, sleeping in the traditional style of a futon which the staff will prepare for us each night. Slippers and a yukata (Japanese bathrobe) are provided as is traditional, with the addition of modern conveniences in all the rooms including wifi, air conditioning, private bathroom facilities, minibar, TV and telephone, as well as complimentary Japanese tea. The remainder of day 1 is at your leisure to discover a little of Kyoto and your guide will be able to provide you with some local suggestions that are easily accessible. With more than 200 temples and shrines, Kyoto has a lot to choose from. Here are a few we recommend. Nijo Castle with its nightingale floors that sing as you walk; Ryoan ji s Zen rock garden and the enchanting Kinkaku ji building; the incredible Sanjusangen Temple with over a thousand statutes of the Buddhist goddess of mercy; the view of Kiyomizu Temple s pagoda and main hall, built on the edge of a hillside and supported by a system of wooden pillars and juts, is breathtaking; or perhaps just a leisurely stroll along the Path of Philosophy which runs alongside the cherry tree lined canal. Tonight we will eat together and experience some traditional Japanese cuisine.
Day 2 Today we visit the Nishiki koji market and its array of Japanese ingredients from seafood to pickles and dried bonito flakes. We then jump on bicycles the best way to explore this fascinating city. We ll cycle via the Nanzenji gate, past the Heian Shrine and along the scenic riverside cycling path We participate in a traditional tea ceremony, then take an evening walk through the geisha district of Gion and learn about these beautiful women and their important contribution to keeping traditional Japanese arts alive. Day 3 Our final day together in Kyoto. After breakfast together your guide will design a personalised itinerary for you that will accommodate your travel plans and your personal interests. There s so much to see and do in Kyoto that it s important to focus on those aspects that will really grab your imagination.
Your Host Gareth Johnson is a travel writer and journalist. Originally from Australia, Gareth is currently based in London. An enthusiastic traveller, Tokyo is one of Gareth s favourite cities in the world the food, the culture, and the nightlife. Gareth will be working closely with Venture s team of local guides to ensure that you have an authentic Tokyo experience and benefit from the insights and expertise of our team. You can follow Gareth on Twitter: @GTVlondon