Worldwide Escorted Tours

Tokyo Kyoto Osaka Fushimi Inari, Kyoto Japan. Established as a merchant town, the high altitude and remote location has allowed a unique culture to develop. Boasting intricate and ornate oriental facades, the Edo period buildings found scattered throughout the town are some of the finest in the country. This morning, a guided tour takes you to a bygone Japan, along Sannomachi Street in the heart of the quaint Old Town. Here canals flow under the eaves of merchant houses with their latticed bay windows, and sake brewing houses display bundles of cedar leaves indicating that the new season’s rice wine is available. Day 7: Takayama to Kyoto B/D Departing Takayama, journey into the ancient capital of Kyoto and experience an age-old tradition with an evening of geisha performances followed by dinner. Famous the world over, geishas generally only perform at small private gatherings in certain districts so it is considered a great honour to observe the unique art form that has been developed over many generations, particularly as now the number of geishas in Japan are in decline. Day 8: Kyoto B/D Once the imperial capital of Japan, the ancient city of Kyoto boasts a history of over 1,200 years and as many as 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It was lucky enough to be relatively unscathed from the devastation of World War II and pockets of the old world still linger, where traditional geishas can be seen shuffling along narrow streets in their wonderfully colourful kimonos. A full day tour delves into the city’s rich history and culture exploring the impressive Fushimi Inari shrine, the 400-year-old Nikshiki Market and the Zen Buddhist temple of Kinkakuji. Enjoy a stroll around the Gion area, a collection of historic streets defined by old wooden buildings, teahouses and exclusive restaurants. Tonight take a local train to a Maiko dinner performance. Day 9: Kyoto to Hiroshima B/D This morning travel to Hiroshima where you will take a leisurely boat ride to Miyajima Island, known as the ‘Island of the Gods’ and marvel its awe- inspiring Itsukushima Shrine. Later, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Day 10: Hiroshima to Osaka B/D Start your day with a visit to Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park and Museum where photos and belonging of victims of the Hiroshima bombing are on display, serving as a reminder of the horror of the devastating event. Later, a bullet train carries you to Osaka, arriving in time for tonight’s entertaining farewell meal – a walking dinner that samples Osaka’s best culinary delights. Day 11: Osaka to the UK This morning, transfer for your return flight, or continue on to your chosen extension. PLEASE NOTE: an overnight day pack/bag is required for your train journey from Kyoto to Hiroshima and Hiroshima to Osaka and your main luggage will be transferred separately Porterage is not included between trains and hotels. Tokyo What’s included ✔ Return flights Heathrow to Japan with Cathay Pacific (via Hong Kong) ✔ Where you’ll stay Tokyo, 3 H ShinJuku Washington Takayama, 4 H Mercure Takayama Kyoto, 4 H Moxy Kyoto Nijo Hiroshima, 3 H Vista Hotel Hiroshima Oasaka, 4 H Moxy Osaka Shin Umede ✔ 14 meals ✔ 8 excursions ✔ Expert local tour guide Tour pace: Intermediate Extend your tour Tokyo city stay, 3 nights, 3 H B&B from £719 Extend your stay to discover this electric city and experience the passion of Tokyo. Kyoto city stay, 3 nights, 3 H B&B from £ 729 Extend your stay by 3 nights to further explore this ancient capital. Departures & from prices Jun 24 £3,599 Jun 25 £3,799 Sep 24 £3,499 Sep 25 £3,599 Oct 24 £3,399 Oct 25 £3,699 Mar 25 £3,699 Nov 25 £3,799 Apr 25 £3,999 • Lead-in price based on 14 Oct 24 • A single supplement starts from just £499 • Tipping paid locally £20 pp per tour Visit our website or call 0800 954 9329 to book or for further details East Asia & Oceania  49