13 days Starts/Ends: Tokyo Escorted Group Tour: Springtime is possibly one of the best times to visit Japan, when cherry blossom trees come out in full bloom across the nation. Take in the highlights, visit some of the country s most beautiful gardens, witness the famous Spring Geisha Dances and take part in a tea ceremony in Kyoto on this special departure. HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS Trip Highlights Tokyo - Cruise down the Sumida River, see the cherry blossoms in bloom in Hamarikyu tei-en Gardens, Sensoji Temple, Meiji Shrine and Shibuya crossing Matsumoto - Matsumoto Castle - one of the few original and complete castles in Japan, giving a real sense of ancient Japan and how the Samurai used to live and fight Takayama - ancient town famed for its narrow streets lined with inns, tea houses, shops and merchant houses. Plus visit to the traditional Hida village on the outskirts of town Kanazawa - seeing Cherry Blossoms at Kenroku-en - one of the best and most beautiful feudal lords' gardens in Japan Staying in a traditional ryokan - sampling Japanese hospitality, bathing in natural hot springs, wearing a Yakata (casual Kimono) and sleeping on a futon Kyoto - Explore the UNESCO listed ancient and cultural capital of Japan. Visit Nijo Castle, Sanjusagen-do Temple and Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion) Temple Kyoto - walking tour of Gion and watching the beautiful Spring Geisha Dances and Tea Ceremony Hiroshima - Peace Park, Peace Memorial Museum, UNESCO Listed A-Bomb Dome and Children's Peace Monument Hakone - Fuji Hakone National Park offering incredible views of the snowcapped Mt Fuji. Explore the region and travel aboard mountain bus, switchback railway, boats and cable cars What's Included 12 breakfasts and 4 dinners 12 nights 3-4 star accommodation (including 2 nights in a traditional Japanese Inn in Takayama) Airport arrival and departure transfers. Shared shuttle bus transfers from either Narita or Haneda Airports Guided sightseeing and walking tours in Tokyo, Matsumoto, Kanazawa, Takayama, Kyoto and Hakone Day trip to Hiroshima with visits to Peace Park, Peace Park Museum, various memorials and the A-Bomb site All relevant transfers and transportation - private buses and rail passes - individual or other (including Tokyo Transport Pass and 2 day Hakone Free Pass), and luggage forwarding on day 7,10 & 12 Sumida River boat cruise in Tokyo Fuji Hakone National Park - with lake cruise, cable cars, ropeways and switchback trains Ticket to the Spring Geisha Dances and tea ceremony hosted by Geisha (Miyako Odori ceremony) and guided tour of the Gion (Geisha) district in Kyoto Escorted by a licensed English speaking Japanese tour guide Entrance fees to all included sightseeing Maximum group size: 18 persons What's Not Included International flights, visa, laundry, drinks, items of a personal nature Tip for your tour guide. We recommend you allow USD$3-5 per day, per traveller. Tipping your guide is an entirely personal gesture DETAILED ITINERARY Day 1 : Welcome to Japan Upon arrival in Tokyo (Narita or Haneda airport) you will be met by your transfer person (non- English speaking) who will give you your Tokyo Transport IC Card (a type of smart card) which will allow you to move freely around the city on - 1 -
the subways and train systems and assist you to transfer to our hotel in Shinjuku, one of the most modern districts in the city. A flight arriving to Tokyo before 16:00 would be ideal should you wish to attend the Welcome Meeting hosted by your guide in the hotel commencing at 18:30. If arriving after this time, don't be concerned as your guide will offer an abridged version of the meeting tomorrow morning. Overnight - Tokyo Day 2 : Tokyo Sightseeing - Meiji Shrine, Ginza, Shibuya & river cruise Today we embark on a full day tour of the city. We start with a cruise down the Sumida River, followed by a walk through Hamarikyu tei-en, a tranquil garden that is just a few minutes walk from the lively Ginza Shopping District, where we will be able to see cherry blossom trees. Later we visit the revered Meiji Shrine where the emperor Meiji and his wife are enshrined. The last stop of the day is the Shibuya Crossing - regarded as one of the busiest pedestrian intersections in the world. It is said that up to a 1000 people converge onto the intersection with every light change. Known as 'the scramble' we'll give it a go then grab a coffee at the second floor Starbucks located directly above. The remainder of the afternoon offers free time for you to further discover this exciting city, before our group welcome dinner at a local restaurant this evening. Overnight - Tokyo (B, D) Day 3 : Matsumoto Castle Tokyo Matsumoto. This morning we drive to Matsumoto, which will take approx. 3.5 hours. Upon arrival we will visit which is one of the original and most complete of the handful of medieval castles that exist in Japan today. The towering black and white structure holds some 400 years of history, is a National Treasure (1 of only 4 castles) and is the most iconic landmark in the city. The reward for climbing the narrow stairs to the top are the stunning views that can be seen from the slim wooden windows (used for archers and gunmen) of the Japanese Alps, Matsumoto City and the swans circling in the moat below. This evening offers free time where you might wish to try the local specialty soba noodles. Overnight - Matsumoto (B) Day 4 : Takayama - Hida Folk Village Matsumoto Takayama. From Matsumoto we drive to Takayama, a charming town in the heart of the Hida Mountains. Established in the 16th century as the castle town of the Kanamori family, the town is famous throughout Japan for its old town area of narrow streets filled with well-preserved inns, tea houses, shops and merchants houses with latticed windows and overhanging roofs that are characteristic of the Edo period. Later this evening, there will be free time to explore but first we drive to the outskirts of the town to visit the fascinating Hida Folk Village, an outdoor museum comprising 30 or so traditional farm houses from around the Hida region, re-built here on the hillside overlooking the town. Tonight we will enjoy a classic Japanese ryokan meal at the inn where we are staying. Overnight - Takayama (B, D) Day 5 : Takayama's Old Quarter This morning we will explore the town's market stalls, overflowing with fresh produce brought in daily from the surrounding fields. Later we explore Takayama s Old Quarter, where you can enjoy free time to wander around the shops and perhaps visit a sake distillery to sample the town s famous and potent sake. Tonight, we recommend you head out for dinner to sample some of Takayama s delicious Hida beef at one of the many restaurants or beef burger cafes. Overnight - Takayama (B) Day 6 : Cherry Blossoms of Kanazawa Takayama Kanazawa. Today we will travel by private bus to Kanazawa, home to one of Japan s most impressive gardens, Kenrokuen, located opposite Kanazawa Castle. Once part of the feudal lord's garden Kenroku-en, is regarded as one of the best places to see the country's famous cherry blossoms - hopefully in full bloom. In Kanazawa the cherry blossom trees are due to bloom in late March/early April and when in bloom, these delicate soft pink flowers can be seen lining the streets and filling the parks and gardens all over the city. After lunch in Nagamachi Samurai district - known as a lively food market and restaurants area, we visit the Nomura Family Samurai House and Ninja Temple (not actually associated with Ninja but rather for the its deceptive defences and escape routes). Note: No guiding/ English translation is allowed in the temple whatsoever. Your guide will brief you before entering the temple, though will be silent whilst within. Our last stop of the day is Garden Kenroku-en (the feudal lord's garden) where we can sit, relax and admire the Cherry Blossoms till the sun sets. Overnight - Kanazawa (B) Day 7 : Kyoto - beauty, art and culture Kanazawa Kyoto. This morning you will need to pack an overnight bag as our main luggage will be couriered to Kyoto and arrive tomorrow. A morning express train takes us to Kyoto, Japan s ancient and cultural capital, where we will spend the next three nights. As one of the most culturally rich cities in Asia, Kyoto is home to 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites, over 1,600 Buddhist Temples and 400 Shinto Shrines. Upon arrival we embark on a guided walking tour of the UNESCO listed Nijo Castle. Built by the first Tokugawa shogun in 1603, the exquisite castle is a wonderful example of Momoyama architecture. The later part of the afternoon - 2 -
offers free time for you to explore more of Kyoto's beautiful sites. Overnight - Kyoto (B) Day 8 : Hiroshima - Peace Park, Museum & Memorials Kyoto - Hiroshima - Kyoto. This morning we depart (at approx 08:30)for a full day sightseeing excursion to Hiroshima first taking a private bus, then one of the fastest trains in Japan (the Nozomi Shinkansen) which reaches speeds of up to 300km. Arriving to Hiroshima we visit the iconic A-Bomb Dome - one of the very few buildings left standing after the blast, Peace Park and Peace Park Museum all of which are a sobering reminder of Hiroshima s devastating past. We ll also visit the Children's Peace Monument a memorial to the children killed, where school children from around the globe donate paper origami cranes, signifying hope and peace. We return to Kyoto just after sundown (approx. 18:30). Note: If travelling on our 31 Mar 2018 departure the arrangements of day 9 will be conducted today and the arrangements of day 8 conducted tomorrow. Overnight - Kyoto (B) Day 9 : Kyoto's best temples Geisha Tea Ceremony This morning we visit the stunning Zen Buddhist Temple of Kinkakuji, known as the Golden Temple which forms part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto's World Heritage Site. The top floor of the two-story structure is completely covered in gold and sits beside a small lake where its beauty is reflected in the calm waters. After, we tour Sanjusagen-do Temple famous for its statues of Kannon. The one thousand life-size statues of Kannon are made of Japanese cypress and are completely covered in gold-leaf. Standing in rows of 10 and each hand carved, so that no two are alike. After we make our way to Gion, the famed Geisha district we enjoy a guided walking tour where we'll attend the famous Spring Geisha Dances with a Tea Ceremony, which is hosted by Geisha (in Japanese 'Miyako Odori' Ceremony). Dinner tonight is at a Gion restaurant - keep a look out, as its very possible to see Maiko (apprentice Geisha) dressed in beautiful kimono walking to and from there lessons. Overnight - Kyoto (B, D) Days 10-11 : Hakone NP - at the foot of Mt Fuji Kyoto - Hakone. This morning you will need to pack a day bag as our large suitcases will be couriered directly to our next hotel, for our arrival this evening. This will save us the hassle of carrying them with us all day. Today we travel by train to Fuji Hakone National Park, located at the foot of the iconic Mount Fuji, where we will spend the next two days exploring the local area. Here, we will have access to unlimited travel on nearly all the local modes of transport thanks to our Hakone Freepass card, from mountain buses, trams and the switchback rail, to lofty cable cars. We'll also take a cruise across the picturesque Lake Ashi to Moto-Hakone to visit the Shinto Shrine of Hakone-jinja, where we are also rewarded with the best views of Mt Fuji, Lake Ashi and the Red Torii Gate of Hakone. Overnight - Hakone (B:2, D:1) Day 12 : Tokyo - Sensoji Temple district & free time Hakone - Tokyo. Please pack a day pack for today. Large luggage will be couriered direct to our next hotel in Toyko for our arrival this evening. Heading back to Tokyo, rather than staying in modern Shinjuku, this time we will be staying in old-town Akakusa, a pretty district famous for its historic Sensoji Buddhist Temple and abundance of interesting souvenir and craft stalls. After a guided visit of Sensoji Temple, the rest of the afternoon offers the opportunity to do any last minute sightseeing or shopping. You may also wish to head up to the Tokyo Sky Tree for some final dazzling views of the city. Overnight - Tokyo (B) Day 13 : Goodbye Japan Today our holiday concludes. We offer posttour accommodation for those interested in staying in Tokyo a little longer. Included transfer to Narita or Haneda International Airports by shared shuttle bus.(b) KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Health While Japan is considered safe make sure you are up to date on routine vaccinations; it is also recommended to be vaccinated for Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B and Japanese B Encephalitis. Japan does have mosquitoes in the summer months, but Malaria is not a problem in Japan. If you are allergic to bites from mosquitoes please take appropriate precautions; anti-mosquito sprays and creams are widely available in Japan or you could bring your own from home. Water is safe to drink in all areas of Japan. Climate Weather conditions vary in Japan depending on location and time of year. Typically summers are hot and humid, whilst winters are significantly colder - especially in the mountains, with a dry climate and light snowfall. Spring and Autumn offer warm days and cool nights, making this a wonderful time to explore the highlights of Japan. June is considered the rainy season with hot and muggy weather. Temperatures do vary depending on the region, so be sure to check in advance when travelling to the far north or far south of Japan. Currency The official currency in Japan is Japanese Yen (JPY). - 3 -
Most major currencies can be exchanged at the airport. Please bring JPY with you from home or exchange your preferred currency to JPY at the airport. Traveller s cheques can be exchanged in major banks, larger hotels and some duty free shops. While credit cards are becoming increasingly popular in Japan, they are not commonly used for making purchases as in western countries so you are best to pay in cash where possible. Avoid cash machines at banks as these do not normally accept foreign-issued cards. Instead use the Post Office cash machines from which you will be able to take out money using Visa cards, MasterCard, Cirrus or Maestro. Note that Post Offices may only be open during office hours Mon to Fri. Convenience store chain 7- Eleven will have ATMs in almost all of its stores which will accept most foreign-issued credit and debit cards. Japan is a mainly cash using country, so it is recommended to bring a healthy amount of cash with you to get started (around JPY 50,000), not USD or other currencies which are only easily changeable at the airport. While credit card usage is increasing, be prepared to use cash. Time & Voltage Time: Japan is 9 hours ahead of GMT and does not observe daylight savings. Voltage: In Japan the standard voltage is different from other regions of the world at 100V, and power outlets accept a flat 2-pin plug (similar to North American outlets). To cover all bases, it is best to pack an international travel adaptor! Food One of the best things about visiting any country is sampling its cuisine and during your stay in Japan you ll probably be wishing to do just that. Many Japanese restaurants specialise in one particular type of food. Sushi is of course the most famous dish, but Japanese food does not stop with raw fish; other specialities include teriyaki (marinated beef/chicken/fish seared on a hot plate), sukiyaki (thin slices of beef, bean curd and vegetables cooked in soy sauce and then dipped in egg), and tempura (deep fried sea-food and vegetables). If everything so far sounds a bit meat and fish orientated don't be alarmed - there are vegetarian options in Japan. Try the wonderful zaru soba (buck-wheat noodles served cold), a bowl of Udon (thicker noodles) in a mountain vegetable soup, tofu steak or a vegetable okonomiyaki (savoury pancake). If you are feeling adventurous you could try natto, this is a sticky and slightly smelly concoction made of fermented soya beans. If you want a more general selection, then the best place to go is an Izakaya (Japanese pub) where you will find an extensive and pretty cheap choice of food and drink. Izakaya often offer tabehodai or nomihodai - for a set price you get an hour or two to eat or drink as much as you like. Choosing exactly what to eat is made easier by well illustrated menus or plastic food displays at the doorway just point and see what you get. In major cities you will also find plenty of Western-style restaurants. Each region of Japan also has its own speciality foods, unique to or particularly famous in that one area of the country. These are nearly always made from locally produced ingredients. Rooming Arrangements Most hotels in Japan offer single rooms with one bed and twin share rooms fitted with two single beds. It is relatively uncommon to find double rooms with one large bed. If you have requested a double room with one large bed we will always request this particular rooming configuration with the hotel, though it is not guaranteed and you may often be accommodated in a twin share. Further triple share rooms and family suites are very hard to come by. HOTEL ROOMS IN TOKYO If travelling on our Best of Japan, Land of the Samurai, Tokyo to Beijing or Tokyo to Takayama tours we most often stay at the Yaesu Terminal Hotel in Tokyo. This hotel is conveniently located less than 5 minutes from Tokyo train station in the heart of the financial district. Guest rooms in the Yaesu Terminal Hotel are small with a Twin share room measuring no more than 12.5sqm and a Single room measuring no more than 10sqm. If travelling with large suitcases you will find it difficult to have both suitcases open at once without utilising the space on your bed. All guest rooms in the heart of city are small and the Yaesu Terminal Hotel is no different. The hotel's location is superb which is the opportunity cost for convenience. TOP TIP: On a weekday just after 8am peer out the window to street level to see the wave of suits flood the side-walk, all headed for the office, ready to start their number crunching for the day. Visas UK, AUS, NZ, USA and CAN passport holders do not require a visa at present to enter Japan for touristic purposes for a stay of up to 90 days. South African passport holders can obtain a visa prior to arrival for touristic purposes, for a stay of up to 90 days. A full passport with two full blank pages and at least 6 months validity beyond date of exit from Japan upon entrance is essential. Please check your personal visa requirements with your embassy if you are from another country. Please double-check all visa requirements with the Japan embassy at least one month before travel as the above is intended as a guide. Please Note: Visa information is subject to change. Contact your nearest Japanese Embassy for the most up to date information. Visa procurement remains the responsibility of the passenger and not that of On The Go. Packing One medium sized suitcase is recommended for travel around Japan and you will also want to pack a small backpack or day pack for daily use. This small back pack will also come in use when your main suitcase has been forwarded ahead, such as when visiting Lake Kawaguchi on our groups tours or when travelling from Kanazawa to Kyoto on our Cherry Blossom tour. Make sure you pack comfortable shoes as an extended time will be spent on the feet new high heels are not such a smart way to do this kind of trip! Also shoes will often be taken off - 4 -
and put back on, so something that is easy to put on and take off is best! Non-Smoking Rooms Japan trails behind the western world in regards to its anti-smoking laws. Although it s uncommon to see Japanese people walking along the street smoking, as this is culturally frowned upon smoking is still permitted in bars, some restaurants and hotels. It is becoming more common for hotels offer an indoor smoking room rather than allowing smoking throughout the property, though many hotels still only have a small inventory of non-smoking rooms. Where possible we do book as many non-smoking rooms as we can, though we cannot guarantee that in each city a nonsmoking room will be offered. It often is, but again this cannot be guaranteed. The restaurants we do book are non-smoking and if heading out to a bar we will reserve a spot in the non-smoking section of the bar. If you are extremely sensitive to cigarette smoke you may wish to reconsider travelling on one of our group tours but instead book a tailor-made holiday with us where we be able to select small high-end boutique properties that operate a 100% no smoking policy. - 5 -