Worldwide Escorted Tours

Mount Fuji. A short walking trail leads to Owakudani Valley, an active volcanic crater, where hot springs, bubbling pools and steam vents serve as reminders of the area’s volcanic might. Continue on to the shores of Lake Ashi and enjoy a short cruise on this idyllic lake, surrounded by mountains and greenery. Day 8: Hakone to Matsumoto B Witness the grandeur of Mount Fuji as a coach ride takes you to the Fifth Station at the mountain’s base. Enjoy unobstructed views from the observation deck before learning more about the mountain’s cultural significance at the Mount Fuji World Heritage Centre. Your coach ride continues on to the ancient hillside city of Matsumoto. Discover Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan’s most beautiful and oldest castles. Ringed by a moat and soaring up over five stories, a climb up the steps to the top will reward you with mesmerizing views. Day 9: Matsumoto to Kyoto B Journey into the Japanese highlands of Yudanaka for an encounter with the fluffy snow monkeys of the region. Witness these fascinating creatures lounging and paddling in the steaming onsen, or hot springs, as they beat the icy conditions. Accustomed to their daily encounters with humans, these fearless primates allow an up-close, memorable experience. Drive onward to Nagano’s Zenkoji Temple, which houses what is believed to be the first Buddhist statue brought to Japan. Later, board your train to Kyoto, travelling through picturesque landscapes. Day 10: Kyoto B Experience traditional Japan as you explore Kyoto, a city of shrines, temples and geisha teahouses. Explore the UNESCO-recognised Nijo Castle then look out for geishas as you walk through the geisha district of Gion. Enjoy a sumptuous vision as you witness the gold-leafed pavilion of Kinkaku-ji. Discover the ancient hallways and sacred waterfall of Kiyomizudera Temple then walk along the streets of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka. Visit Fushimi Inari and stroll through an amazing arcade of vivid red ‘torii’, or shrine gates, with dedications to Inari, the god of rice. Wander the Zen gardens of Kodaiji Temple before sampling a traditional tea ceremony in the temple hall. Day 11: Kyoto to Hiroshima B/D Depart for Hiroshima, first travelling to Nara, where you’ll visit the Todaiji Temple and the world’s largest bronze Buddha statue. Watch deer roaming in nearby Nara Park then drive to Osaka and catch your bullet train to Hiroshima. Day 12: Hiroshima B Start today with a visit to Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park & Museum which serves as a reminder of this devastating event. Visit the A-Bomb Dome, one of the few buildings to survive the blasts and remains as a symbol of peace in the city. Next, take a boat ride to Miyajima Island, known as the ‘Island of the Gods’ and visit the awe-inspiring Itsukushima Shrine. Day 13: Hiroshima to Fukuoka B/D Depart Hiroshima on a bullet train to Fukuoka. Well known for its ancient temples, beaches and beautiful Maizuru Park which contains the ruins of 17th century Fukuoka Castle. Visit the tranquil Dazaifu Temmangu Shrine and the Kyushu National Museum. This evening, visit the Nakasu Area and follow your nose to find the tantalising street food. But remember to leave space for tonight’s farewell dinner. Day 14: Fukuoka to the UK B Transfer for your return flight. PLEASE NOTE: Porterage is not included between trains and hotels. Day 4: Sapporo to Hakodate  An overnight bag will be required for 2 nights as your main luggage will be transferred to Tokyo on day 6. Day 8: Matsumoto to Kyoto  An overnight bag will be required for 2 nights as your main luggage will be transferred to Kyoto on day 10. Day 9: Matsumoto to Kyoto  Luggage will be delivered to Kyoto so overnight bag for one night is needed. Day 11: Kyoto to Hiroshima  An overnight bag will be required for 2 nights as your main luggage will be transferred to Fukuoka on day 13 What’s included ✔ Return flights Heathrow to Japan with Cathay Pacific (via Hong Kong) ✔ Where you’ll stay Sapporo, 4 H Sapporo Excel Hotel Hakodate, 4 H Hakodate Kokusai Hotel Tokyo, 3 H Shinjuku Washington Hakone, Hakone Yutowa Matsumoto, Iroha Grand Matsumoto Kyoto, 4 H Moxy Kyoto Nijo Hiroshima, 4 H Rihga Royal Hiroshima Hakata, 4 H Hakata Excel Hotel ✔ 18 meals ✔ 12 excursions ✔ Expert local tour guide Tour pace: Intermediate The tour guide Takashi was really friendly and helpful. He went the extra mile to make sure we were looked after and happy “ J. Curtis Yudanaka Hiroshima Osaka Departures & from prices Jun 24 £5,199 May 25 £4,699 Sep 24 £4,899 Jun 25 £4,999 Oct 24 £4,999 Sep 25 £4,999 Nov 24 £4,899 Oct 25 £4,999 Mar 25 £4,899 Nov 25 £4,999 Apr 25 £5,199 • Lead-in price based on 6 May 25 • A single supplement starts from just £589 • Tipping paid locally £26 pp per tour Extend your tour Hong Kong city stay, 3 nights, B&B from £339 Visit our website or call 0800 954 9329 to book or for further details East Asia & Oceania  47