JapanIndividual travel, group tours & excursions
Japan specialist since 1912 Mt. Fu ji
Os a k a
To kyo
Kyoto Kanazawa Takayama
Mt. Fuji Hiroshima Kyoto Nagoya Osaka
Fukuoka Matsuyama
Nagasaki Kumamoto
SHIKOKU
KYUSHU OKINAWA
Okinawa CONTENTS
ABOUT US······························································· 04 JAPAN······································································ 06 JAPAN RAIL PASS··················································· 08 EXCURSIONS·························································· 10
SELF-GUIDED TOURS
EXPLORE JAPAN BY RAIL······································ 14 Sapporo JAPAN HIGHLIGHTS 12 DAYS································ 15 JAPAN HIGHLIGHTS 16 DAYS································ 15 THE SEASONS························································ 16 SPRING IN JAPAN··················································· 17 AUTUMN IN JAPAN················································ 17 HOKKAIDO FAST AND ACTIVE·················································· 18 Aomori MODERN AND TRADITIONAL······························· 19 CYCLE ON SHIKOKU··············································· 19 POP CULTURE························································· 20 POP JAPAN!···························································· 21 KANSAI BANZAI!···················································· 21 Sendai OFF THE BEATEN TRACK······································· 22 NORTH JAPAN (TOHOKU)······································ 23 RUSTIC JAPAN························································ 23 KYUSHU··································································· 24 Nikko KYUSHU 11 DAYS···················································· 25 KYUSHU BY CAR····················································· 25 HOKKAIDO & OKINAWA········································ 26 Mt. Fuji Tokyo EXPLORE HOKKAIDO BY CAR ······························ 27 ISHIGAKI ISLAND, OKINAWA ······························· 27 HONSHU WINTER SPORTS···················································· 28 NOZAWA ONSEN ··················································· 29 ZAO·········································································· 29 FURANO·································································· 29
GROUP TOURS
ESSENTIAL JAPAN················································· 33 Nis ek o CONTRASTS OF JAPAN········································· 33 NORTH JAPAN END SAPPORO····························· 35 NORTH JAPAN························································ 35 WONDERS OF JAPAN············································ 37 CENTRAL JAPAN···················································· 37 DISCOVER JAPAN··················································· 39 DISCOVER JAPAN COMPLETE······························ 39
JAPAN TRAVEL······················································· 40 BOOKING CONDITIONS········································· 42 Hi ros h i m a Ni kko ABOUT US Japanspecialist since 1912 JTB was founded in 1912 with the aim of inviting visitors to Japan from overseas and meeting their travel needs. Since that time, JTB has developed into a global specialist, not only for travel to Japan, but to various destinations. Now the JTB Group is a globally operating group with around 28,000 employees in 196 different companies. JTB itself has become the largest travel organisation in Asia. JTB provides travel services – either directly or indirectly - for more than half of all holidays undertaken in Japan by overseas visitors.
JTB’s expertise in providing travellers with an unforgettable experience over and over again is entrusted to the thousands of professionals who specialize in their local markets. They form a bridge between Japan and travellers wordwide.
Our Japan specialists are based in London. The team consists of both British and Japanese professionals with extensive knowledge about Japan. They have lived in the country and know it in depth, but also understand the needs and expectations of the UK traveller.
This “best of both worlds” is part of the JTB mission to give every traveller a unique journey and to get acquainted with Japan’s unique culture. JTB attaches great importance to long-term relationships with customers and business partners and always strives for the best result: Perfect moments, always!
The Japan Tourist Bureau headquarters in 1912. JTB Headquarters in Tokyo source: Japan Travel Bureau Semicentennial History JAPAN Yokoso!
Japan is a destination like no other – the unique country not only leaves an unforgettable impression on who visit for the first time, but also ensures that people keep coming back.
CENTURIES-OLD TRADITIONS AND MODERN TECHNOLOGY As an archipelago, Japan, with its centuries-old traditions, has developed its own culture, society and way of life. Art and religion show the clear influence of China and Korea, but have been refined and adapted to a unique Japanese pattern. This has ensured that daily activities such as writing, tea drinking and bathing, have become meaningful rituals for Japanese people - or even art forms. Japan is also a forerunner in technology and research in the field of robotics, infrastructure and consumer electronics. It is precisely this contrast between old traditions and modern life and technological development that makes Japan a unique destination. SEASONS Japan has very distinct and characteristic seasons. Spring and autumn are the most pleasant times to visit. And because the country extends so far from north to south there is a wide variation in climate and landscape, from the powder snow of the northern island of Hokkaido in winter, to the subtropical forests and beaches on Kyushu and Okinawa.
6 About Japan
JAPANESE CUISINE Japanese food is popular worldwide. But the real Japanese cuisine with fresh ingredients and the best regional specialties can only be tasted in the country itself. Japanese food is not limited to the well-known dishes like sushi, but comes in a whole variety from a bowl of noodles at a simple food stall to a luxurious set-course kaiseki menu in a five-star restaurant. HOSPITALITY Japan is a popular travel destination because the Japanese people offer a warm and hospitality welcome to visitors. Very often, locals who do not speak English will help overseas travellers by walking them all the way to where they want to go. This politeness and goodwill make Japan not only a pleasant country to visit but also one of the safest destinations in the world. ACCOMMODATION Most well-known international hotel chains have properties in Japan, and there are many Japanese hotel chains too, offering accommodation in western-style rooms. But a stay at a ryokan or Japanese inn is an experience not to be missed. Staying at a ryokan is a fascinating way to experience traditional Japanese culture and to escape from the hectic pace of daily life. Stay in a room with tatami mats and sleep on the futon mattress put out on the floor for you in the evening. Your accommodation usually includes Japanese dinner and breakfast. Japan has many areas famous for their onsen (natural hot springs); in those places, many ryokans have hot spring bathing facilities.
7 JAPAN RAIL PASS Affordable and efficient travel through Japan!
8 Japan Rail Pass
Unlimited train travel Cheaper than individual tickets Valid on the shinkansen
The Japan Rail Pass is ideal for discovering Japan, using the country’s efficient rail network. The nationwide rail pass offers unlimited travel on the Japan Rail (JR) network for 7, 14 or 21 days. Trains in Japan are safe, fast and always on time. Going by train is the most efficient way of travelling: the famous bullet train (shinkansen) connects all major cities and together with other express and local trains, provides a fast and reliable train service throughout the country.
PRICE
Single train ticket on the following route: Tokyo – Kyoto – Hiroshima – Tokyo Adult Ordinary class tickets∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙ ¥44,400 7-day Japan Rail Pass∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙ ¥29,110
DURATION CLASS PRICE Ordinary (2nd) class ¥29,110 7 days Green (1st) class ¥38,880 Ordinary class ¥46,390 14 days Green class ¥62,950 Ordinary class ¥59,350 21 days Green class ¥81,870
REGIONAL PASSES The general Japan Rail Pass can be used on the JR network throughout Japan, but for a short stay in one of the local regions, a regional pass is a good option. JTB is an official point of sale for the full range of Regional Passes including the Kyushu, Hokkaido, Shikoku and Kansai Regional passes. CONVENIENT TO BUY, EASY TO USE The Japan Rail Pass is easy and quick to order online at japanspecialist.co.uk: we mail you the Japan Rail Pass Exchange Order by your chosen delivery method. Then take the Exchange Order to Japan and exchange it for the actual Rail Pass at one of the many Travel Service Centres around the country. See Japan by train!
Buy online at: japanspecialist.co.uk/japan-rail-pass/
www.japanspecialist.co.uk 9 EXCURSIONS See the sights
For many years now, JTB’s range of tours and excursions – JTB Sunrise Tours – have been one of the company’s most successful products. Visit the most popular sights of Japan’s major cities conveniently, by joining a group excursion with an English-speaking guide, transportation and entrance fees included. If you want to see the highlights but don’t have much time, or you want to visit places which are difficult to reach as an individual traveller, JTB Sunrise tours offer the solution. Most excursions have pick up services from the major hotels in Tokyo and Kyoto.
10 Excursions
TOKYO FULL DAY A full-day excursion full of highlights such as Tokyo Tower, a tea ceremony and a Japanese- style lunch, Sumida River boat trip, downtown Asakusa, Ginza and the famous Nakamise shopping street.
MT. FUJI & HAKONE FULL DAY Set off from Tokyo by coach to the Fuji Hakone National Park, take the Mt Komagatake cable car for views of Mt Fuji, a cruise on Lake Ashi, and go up to the 5th station on Mt Fuji at an altitude of 2,300 metres.
KYOTO & NARA FULL DAY While staying in Kyoto, visit the historic sites of this former capital of the country, and nearby Nara: two traditional and elegant cities in a day. Visit imposing Nijo Castle, the Golden Pavilion, the Imperial Palace and of course the famous Todaiji Temple and Nara Park.
NIKKO FULL DAY The UNESCO World Heritage site of Nikko is located north of Tokyo and is a well-known World Heritage site. The famous Toshogu Shrine stands in peaceful forests and mountains.
TOKYO SUMO TOURNAMENT A sumo tournament takes place in Tokyo three times a year (January, May, September). This ancient form of wrestling is deeply rooted in the Shinto religion, and holds a special place in Japanese culture. Visit with an English-speaking guide who is also a Sumo fan.
BACK STREET CYCLING, KYOTO Cycle through the back streets of Kyoto at a leisurely pace with an English-speaking guide, and discover a new side of the city that can’t be seen on coach tours or walking tours. Enjoy sightseeing in traditional areas of the city including Miyagawacho and Gion, which are steeped in the traditional atmosphere of Kyoto.
View our full range at japanspecialist.co.uk/excursions/ or call us to find out more.
© Kyoto Cycling Tour Project
www.japanspecialist.co.uk 11 SELF-GUIDED TOURS
ur individual trips are specially made for the independent traveller who wants to enjoy Japan at their own pace. OThe itineraries have already been researched, so there is more time for you to discover, enjoy and experience without having to think about the basics. We take care of the accommodation, transportation such as the Japan Rail Pass, air tickets and excursions and you take the time to discover Japan! Be inspired by our suggestions for each destination and create your own journey. Before you travel, you will receive a detailed itinerary, useful tips and information about the region you are visiting.
We specialize in customization, so if you want to modify our tour suggestion to suit your interests or budget, we can tailor-make your trip. Extension with extra nights in Tokyo? Excursion in Takayama? Sumo tickets? No problem. All these extras make your Japan trip unique.
See our suggestions and details on our website: japanspecialist.co.uk/bespoke-japan-tours/
12 Full or partial arrangements Customisation and expert advice Detailed travel schedule and useful tips
EXPLORE JAPAN BY RAIL··················· 14 JAPAN HIGHLIGHTS 12 DAYS············· 15 JAPAN HIGHLIGHTS 16 DAYS············· 15 THE SEASONS····································· 16 SPRING IN JAPAN································ 17 AUTUMN IN JAPAN····························· 17 FAST AND ACTIVE······························· 18 MODERN AND TRADITIONAL············ 19 CYCLE ON SHIKOKU···························· 19 POP CULTURE······································ 20 POP JAPAN!········································· 21 KANSAI BANZAI!································· 21 OFF THE BEATEN TRACK···················· 22 NORTH JAPAN (TOHOKU)··················· 23 RUSTIC JAPAN····································· 23 KYUSHU················································ 24 KYUSHU 11 DAYS································· 25 KYUSHU BY CAR·································· 25 HOKKAIDO & OKINAWA····················· 26 EXPORE HOKKAIDO BY CAR·············· 27 ISHIGAKI ISLAND, OKINAWA············· 27 WINTER SPORTS································· 28 NOZAWA ONSEN································· 29 ZAO······················································· 29 FURANO··············································· 29
13 EXPLORE JAPAN BY RAIL Travel more, see more
There is nothing like travelling by train in Japan. The Japan Rail network is extensive, efficient, safe and takes you to every destination in the country. Above all, the Bullet train or shinkansen is Japan’s national pride and whisks you around the country safely and punctually at speeds of up to 200 mph. Relax in a comfortable seat and enjoy the varied landscape as you travel to your next destination. Shinkansen trains differ in appearance according to the route, and even have different names such as ‘Hikari’ (light), ‘Tsubasa’ (wing), ‘Yamabiko’ (echo) or ‘Hibiki’ (sound) - based on natural phenomena.
Specialist tips!
The short ferry crossing from Miyajima-guchi to the island of Miyajima is covered by the Rail Pass!
Japan Rail Pass Japanese perfection The Japan Rail Pass is a cost-effective rail pass for 7, 14, or The secret of Japanese train punctuality is partly the 21 consecutive days. You can travel unlimited on almost all technology, and partly the human factor. Average annual Japan Rail train services. Long-distance rail journeys can be delays of the Shinkansen is a stunning 30 seconds! Due to very expensive– especially for overseas visitors – but saving the expertise and dedication of the train staff, intervals in money has never been easier. You can use the Shinkansen, the services are pared down to milliseconds. You can set local trains or even the famous Yamanote Loop Line in Tokyo. your watch by them. It is a remarkable fact that the trains are Seat reservations are free with the Japan Rail Pass. cleaned within 10 minutes. Inspectors and technical teams check the trains daily. The Tokaido-shinkansen has had no fatal accidents in the last 50 years of operation.
14 Individual tours
Japan highlights Japan highlights 12 days | from £ 1,069 pp 16 days | from £ 1,679 pp
Nyuto Onsen Kakunodate Sendai Matsumoto Kyoto Hiroshima Tsumago Hiroshima Miyajima Tokyo Miyajima Nara Tokyo Kyoto Hakone Osaka Osaka Kumamoto Nagasaki
This 12-day trip will introduce you Stay longer in Japan and explore further, to all the highlights from Tokyo to visiting the north as well as the south of Hiroshima. Use the Japan Rail Pass, and the country. Besides popular experience Japan’s famous Bullet train. destinations such as Kyoto, Tokyo and Stay in Japan’s major cities but also Hiroshima, visit lesser- known areas the smaller towns of Matsumoto and such as Akita and Sendai. These regions Tsumago on the Nakasendo trail. of northern Honshu are off the beaten track and often overlooked, but well Itinerary worth the trip. Immerse yourself in Japan. 1. Arrive Tokyo 2. Tokyo 3. Matsumoto 4. Tsumago (stay in a Itinerary ryokan) 5. Tsumago 6. Kyoto 1. Arrive Tokyo 2. Sendai 7. Kyoto 8. Kyoto 9. Hiroshima 3. Sendai 4. Nyuto Onsen (stay in a 10. Hiroshima / Miyajima ryokan) 5. Kakunodate 6. Hakone 11. Osaka (KIX Airport hotel) 12. Depart 7. Hakone 8. Kyoto 9. Kyoto / Nara 10. Kyoto 11. Hiroshima 12. Hiroshima / Includes: 11 nights accommodation Miyajima 13. Nagasaki 14. Kumamoto with breakfast, incl. 2 nights at 15. Osaka (KIX Airport hotel) 16. Depart ryokan (Japanese inn) with dinner and breakfast, 14-day Japan Rail Pass, travel Includes: 15 nights accommodation details and extra information. with breakfast, incl.1 night at ryokan (Japanese inn) with dinner and Excludes: flights, tours & personal breakfast, 14-day Japan Rail Pass, travel expenses details and extra information More info: japanspecialist.co.uk/tour_ Excludes: flights, tours & personal package/japan-highlights-12-days/ expenses More info: japanspecialist.co.uk/tour_ package/japan-highlights-16-days/
www.japanspecialist.co.uk 15 THE SEASONS Nature’s changes
Japan is a vast island country with very distinct seasons and climates: winters in the northern island of Hokkaido are extremely cold, while the islands of Okinawa have a sub-tropical climate. The main island of Honshu lies between these two extremes and therefore enjoys the changes brought by every season. The clear skies of winter are ideal for viewing colourful temples in the snow. Summer brings the sound of cicadas, and local people enjoy a variety of festivals up and down the country, many with fireworks. But spring and autumn show nature’s changes in ways the Japanese themselves appreciate most: in March and April the trees in parks and gardens are full of blossom, while in October and November, the forests and woodland show their rich autumn colours.
Specialist tips!
Matcha or green tea is the product of autumn. Almost everything is available with a matcha taste: ice cream, bapao sandwiches, pastries etc.
Sakura Momiji Sakura or cherry blossom is the symbol of spring and is What sakura is to spring, momiji (leaves changing colour) is to a real event in Japan. The blossom has a special place in autumn. During the autumn months the Japanese landscape Japanese society, because their short flowering symbolizes takes on a palette of red, orange and yellow. Viewing the the fragility, mortality and beauty of life. Sakura is a real leaves changing to their autumn colours has been a popular Japanese phenomenon and is not forgotten in the face of pastime for centuries, and countless travellers go to the most commercialism, modern life and pop culture. famous spots in the mountains or towns. The autumn begins mid-September in Hokkaido and travels south until the end of November.
16 Individual tours
Spring in Japan Autumn in Japan 18 days | from £ 1,898 pp 18 days | from 1,992 pp
Takayama Kanazawa Shirakawago Kanazawa Shirakawago Takayama Matsumoto Kyoto Tokyo Kyoto Tokyo Fukuoka Tsumago Hakone Hakone Hiroshima Magome Hiroshima Osaka Miyajima Miyajima
This trip is ideal from the end of March Take this trip anytime from late until May. The spring is a great time to September to November to enjoy travel in Japan because of the pleasant seeing Japan’s woodland flushed with temperatures - and the fleeting beauty the rich colours of autumn. Of course, of the cherry blossom that flowers from the trip is also beautiful during other March until April (actual time differs in periods. various parts of the country.) Itinerary Itinerary 1. Arrive Tokyo 2. Tokyo 1. Arrive Tokyo 2. Tokyo 3. Tokyo 3. Tokyo 4. Hakone with the Hakone 4. Hakone with the Hakone Free Pass Free Pass 5. Hakone 6. Matsumoto 5. Hakone 6. Tsumago 7. Tsumago / 7. Matsumoto 8. Takayama Magome, the old merchants’ route 9. Takayama / Shirakawa-go 8. Takayama 9. Takayama 10. Kanazawa 10. Kanazawa 11. Kanazawa 12. Kyoto 11. Kanazawa / Shirakawa-go 12. Kyoto 13. Kyoto 14. Kyoto 15. Hiroshima 13. Kyoto 14. Kyoto 15. Hiroshima 16. Hiroshima 1 7. Osaka 18. Depart 16. Hiroshima / Miyajima 1 7. Fukuoka Includes: 15 nights accommodation 18. Depart with breakfast, 2 nights in Japanese Includes: 15 nights accommodation ryokan incl. dinner and breakfast (in with breakfast, 2 nights in Japanese Takayama), 14-day Japan Rail Pass 2nd ryokan incl. dinner and breakfast (in class, bus ticket Matsumoto-Takayama, Tsumago), 14-day Japan Rail Pass 2nd detailed itinerary, extra information. class, Hakone Free Pass (3 days), bus Excludes: flights, tours, personal transfer Narita Airport – Tokyo, detailed expenses itinerary, extra information. More info: japanspecialist.co.uk/ Excludes: flights, tours, personal tour_package/autumn-in-japan/ expenses More info: japanspecialist.co.uk/tour_ package/spring-in-japan/
www.japanspecialist.co.uk 17 FAST AND ACTIVE Land of contrasts
If your time is limited, take an itinerary which covers the “must see” places.Our “Modern & Traditional” trip covers the essentials – highlighting Japan’s unique contrast of old and new. Japan is the country par excellence when it comes to contrasts: in downtown Tokyo small red shinto shrines nestle between skyscrapers, Buddhist monks ride scooters and kimono-clad ladies check their mobile phones on the Tokyo metro. On a clear day you can see Mt. Fuji from Tokyo Tower, in the centre of the city. Take the ultra-modern Bullet train to the historic city of Hiroshima and see the red gate of the Itsukushima Shrine standing in the sea.
Specialist tips!
Mt. Fuji can only be climbed during the months of July and August. During other months, travel to the “5th station” of the mountain, at an altitude of around 2,300 metres.
Mt. Fuji and Hakone Cycling enthusiasts Mt. Fuji is a symmetrical cone-shaped volcano, and at a For an active sporting choice in your exploration of Japan, height of 3776 metres is the icon of Japan. For centuries try the Shimanami Kaido: a 60 km-long way which connects the volcano has been an inspiration for artists, painters and the main island of Honshu with Shikoku bridging six small writers, and is now inseparable from Japanese culture. You islands in the Seto Inland Sea. The road starts in historic can enjoy Fuji-san in many ways: from the window of a Hiroshima and ends in the countryside of Shikoku. The route bullet train, while enjoying a hot spring bath, or of course by has spectacular views and is designed with cyclists in mind: standing on the mountain itself. Nearby Mt. Fuji is Hakone - the dedicated cycle path is well maintained, and cycle rental is part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park - famous for its hot possible on the spot. springs, nature and views around Lake Ashi. Hakone is the perfect destination to escape the hustle and bustle of Tokyo.
18 Individual tours
Modern & traditional Cycle on Shikoku 10 days | from £ 1,038 pp 4 days | from £ 295 pp
Shirakawago Hiroshima Miyajima Ikuchi island Tokyo Kyoto Hakone Matsuyama Nara
Stay in the bustling metropolis of Tokyo, Extend your Japan adventure with this with its buzzing entertainment areas, bike trip. Travel from historic Hiroshima department stores and districts which to Onomichi town, the starting point of each have their own unique character. the Shimanami Kaido Cycle Route (60 Find peace and quiet in Hakone - a hot km). Spend the night halfway on Ikuchi spring paradise – and stay the night in Island in a traditional ryokan. Finish the a ryokan or traditional Japanese inn. cycling route the next day at Imabari, a Explore Kyoto and visit nearby Nara, to castle town on the island of Shikoku. see the historic temples and shrines Then travel on to Matsuyama and Dogo and gardens of these former imperial Onsen - the oldest thermal spring in capitals which have been beautifully Japan. A ferry will take you back to preserved. Hiroshima the next day. Itinerary Itinerary 1. Arrive Tokyo 2. Tokyo 3. Tokyo 1. Hiroshima / Miyajima 2. Cycle tour / 4. Tokyo 5. Hakone with Hakone Free overnight on Ikuchi Island 3. Matsuyama Pass 6. Hakone 7. Kyoto by shinkansen 4. Ferry to Hiroshima 8. Kyoto 9. Kyoto / Nara Includes: 3 nights accommodation with 10. Depart breakfast (Ikuchi Island in a Japanese Includes: 9 nights accommodation with ryokan incl. dinner), ferry Matsuyama - breakfast, 2 nights in a Japanese ryokan Hiroshima incl. dinner and breakfast, Hakone Free Excludes: flights, tours, personal Pass (3 days, bus transfer Narita Airport expenses, cycle hire (approx. £ 12 per – Tokyo, bus transfer Kyoto – Kansai day) and tolls (approx. £ 1.70). Airport, Shinkansen ticket Odawara – Kyoto, detailed itinerary, extra More info: japanspecialist.co.uk/ information. tour_package/cycle-on-shikoku/
Excludes: flights, tours, personal expenses More info: japanspecialist.co.uk/tour_ package/modern-and-traditional
www.japanspecialist.co.uk 19 POP CULTURE Japanimation!
Everyone knows Japan as the birthplace of anime, manga and video games. Classics such as Sailor Moon, Dragonball, Pokémon, Hello Kitty or Nintendo are popular worldwide. Japan could be said to be the birthplace of this kind of pop culture. The origins of comic strips or manga go back to 1900 when the manga illustration industry emerged. Manga are now Japanese style comics or graphic novels with different themes, for all ages, available all over Japan. Associated with manga are animated films (anime): think of the famous “My Neighbor Totoro” or “Spirited Away” from Studio Ghibli.
Specialist tips!
Visit a mandarake (second- hand manga and book shop). You can even get a complete series for about £10!
©Emily Lauren @ Tokyo conventions & vistors Bureau Manga cafés & shopping Maid Cafe In a manga café (manga kissa), visitors can enjoy a drink and As the name suggests, Maid Cafes are themed cafés where read the adventures of their favourite characters. The cafés the waitresses are dressed like French maids. They serve also have private rooms where you can read in peace and cute snacks and drinks, chat and play cards or video games quiet. Manga kissa can be found near train stations and they with customers. Maid cafes are fantasy places where fans are often combined with internet cafés - where you can even of manga, anime and cosplay can experience the unique stay all night – for example, if you’ve missed the last quirkiness of Japan’s contemporary culture. Akihabara is the train. You can buy Japanese manga in most newsagents place to be! and bookshops but particularly at Denden Town (Osaka) and Akihabara in Tokyo. Also see Nakano Broadway (anime specialty store), Pokemon Centers, the Ghibli Museum in Tokyo and the Kyoto International Manga Museum.
20 Individual tours
POP Japan! Kansai BANZAI! 8 days | from £ 639 pp 9 days | Price on request
Kyoto/ Arashiyama
Osaka Tokyo Kyoto
Nara Mt Koya
Osaka
Tokyo is the heart of Japan’s The Kansai region, in central Japan, contemporary culture, with maid boasts a concentration of places to see. cafes, stores such as Don Qixote, and Kyoto, the cultural capital and known for specialist shopping areas like Takeshita its countless temples, shrines, geisha Dori for fashion, or Akihabara for gaming district of Gion, green matcha tea and and electronics. Kyoto is the treasure- the Inari shrine with its thousands of red house of Japan and home of the Kyoto torii gates; Nara with the largest buddha International Manga Museum. Combine statue in Japan, and the deer park; the two cities and enjoy manga and Himeji Castle; Kobe and Osaka, both anime. paradises for shopping, eating and entertainment; and Mt.Koya with its Itinerary tranquil temple village. 1. Arrive Tokyo 2. Tokyo 3. Tokyo 4. Tokyo 5. Kyoto 6. Kyoto Itinerary 7. Nara / Osaka 8. Depart 1. Arrive Kyoto 2. Kyoto 3. Kyoto 4. Kyoto / Arashiyama 5. Osaka Includes: 6 nights accommodation with 6. Osaka 7. Mt.Koya (overnight stay at breakfast, shinkansen ticket Tokyo - temple) 8. Osaka 9. Depart Kyoto, 4-day Kansai Area Pass, detailed itinerary, extra information. Includes: 7 nights accommodation with breakfast, 1 night in a shukubo (monk’s Excludes: flights, tours, personal lodging) with vegetarian dinner and expenses breakfast, bus transfer from/to Kansai More info: japanspecialist.co.uk/tour_ Airport, Kansai Area Pass, detailed package/pop-japan/ itinerary, extra information. Excludes: flights, tours, personal expenses More info: japanspecialist.co.uk/tour_ package/kansai-banzai/
www.japanspecialist.co.uk 21 OFF THE BEATEN TRACK Northeast Japan (Tohoku) & Shikoku
The northeast of the main island of Honshu and the island of Shikoku in the south are relatively unknown, but worth discovering by the traveller who wants to see more of Japan. Tohoku is a beautiful region with vast countryside, tranquil lakes, hot springs, rice paddies and mountains, but also countless surprises. Mountains where hermits practice endurance to the elements, mystical “snow monsters”, temples carved into cliffs and even a volcanic landscape that is so unique that it is called “the gateway to Buddhist hell”.
Shikoku shares this mysticism and is the basis of the Pilgrimage of 88 Temples where participants walk the trail between temples. In the middle of the island lies the Iya Valley full of ravines, flowing rivers and suspension bridges. Shikoku also houses the oldest bathhouse and Kabuki theatre in Japan. Specialist tips!
On a small budget, but want to see a lot? Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples are often large complexes and require little or no entrance fees.
Shinto & Buddhism Mt. Koya Shinto is Japan’s oldest natural religion and is deeply rooted in The mystical Mt. Koya is located south of Osaka. It is the Japanese culture and traditions. The Shinto gods or kami are centre of Shingon Buddhism, and houses a remote temple present everywhere, in the elements, mountains, trees, rivers village. The mountain is one of the best places in Japan and objects. They are worshipped in shrines – recognised for a temple stay. Experience the lifestyle of monks with by their bright red gates and massive rope knots – and at their vegetarian cuisine, and join in morning prayer. Around festivals. The Japanese visit shrines to pray for success, fifty temples offer simple accommodation to travellers and prosperity, health and happiness. Shinto and Buddhism exist pilgrims. side by side. Buddhism has been present in Japan since the 6th century and can be recognized by its temples, Zen gardens, altars and festivals.
22 Individual tours
North Japan (Tohoku) Rustic Japan 16 days | from £ 1,669 pp 13 days | from £ 1,189 pp
Nyuto Onsen Kakunodate Kyoto Hiraizumi Hiroshima Naoshima Osaka Sado Sendai Kobe Takamatsu Nara Kotohira Kanazawa Mt. Koya Nikko Matsuyama Tokushima Kyoto Tokyo Osaka Nara
Explore the northeast of Japan off Shikoku offers something different from the beaten track, and discover the Japan’s other islands: an ancient untouched nature and beauty of this Buddhist pilgrimage, original castles, region. View waterfalls in Nikko, rustic rural life, untouched villages and a mountain temples in Yamagata, Sado scattering of small islands in Japan’s Island, Kanazawa with its famous castle “Inland Sea”. and traditional garden, and Kyoto. Itinerary Itinerary 1. Arrive Osaka / Kobe 2. Tokushima by 1. Arrive Tokyo 2. Tokyo 3. Nikko / Nikko bus 3. Takamatsu / Ritsurin Garden National Park 4. Nikko and the Chuzenji 4. Takamatsu / Naoshima Art Island Falls 5. Sendai / Matsushima 6. Sendai / 5. Kotohira / Iya Valley 6. Matsuyama Yamadera 7. Hiraizumi 8. Nyuto Onsen 7. Matsuyama 8. Hiroshima by ferry 9. Kakunodate 10. Niigata / Sado 9. Kyoto 10. Kyoto / Nara 11. Mt. Koya / 11. Niigata / Sado 12. Kanazawa temple stay 12. Osaka 13. Depart from 13. Kyoto 14. Kyoto 15. Kyoto / Nara Osaka 16. Depart from Osaka Includes: 9 nights accommodation with Includes: 12 nights accommodation breakfast, 2 nights in a Japanese ryokan with breakfast, 3 nights in a Japanese incl.dinner and breakfast (Matsuyama) ryokan incl. dinner and breakfast (Nyuto and Mt. Koya temple stay incl. dinner Onsen and Sado Island), 14-day Japan and breakfast, 7-day Japan Rail Pass Rail Pass Ordinary class, return hydrofoil 2nd class, shuttlebus transfer Osaka ferry between Niigata and Sado Island, – Kobe, ferry ticket Matsuyama – detailed itinerary, extra information Hiroshima, detailed itinerary, extra information. Excludes: flights, tours, personal expenses Excludes: flights, tours, personal expenses More info: japanspecialist.co.uk/tour_ package/north-japan/ More info: japanspecialist.co.uk/tour_ package/rustic-japan/
©JNTO www.japanspecialist.co.uk 23 KYUSHU The Land of Fire
Kyushu is Japan’s main southern island, with an area about the size of the Netherlands. Although Japan has many volcanoes, Kyushu is truly the country’s “Land of Fire” because of its active yet accessible volcanoes, and countless hot springs. Kyushu was an important trading gateway between Japan, Asia and a limited number of European countries such as the Netherlands. In addition to techniques in, for example, rice cultivation, ceramics, medicine and linguistics, the regional cuisine is also influenced by this contact with foreign countries. Hakata ramen (noodles in a creamy broth), mentaiko (spicy fish chicken marinated in peppers), chicken nanban (fried chicken covered in sweet vinegar and tartar sauce) and castella Specialist tips! (Japanese sponge cake) are delicious examples of Kyushu’s mixed cuisine! Taste these dishes in lively cities like Fukuoka, Nagasaki and Kumamoto and feel the natural warmth of On top of mountain Mt. Inasa in Japan’s beautiful south. Nagasaki is the Fuku no Yu bathhouse. Sitting in the outdoor pool you have a breathtaking view over Nagasaki - one of Japan’s ‘million dollar views’! Free shuttle buses go to the bathhouse and it takes only 20 minutes!
© JNTO Volcanoes Onsen Kyushu is characterized by a series of caldera volcanoes. The A visit to an onsen (natural hot spring) is a must in Japan. most famous are Mt.Aso, near Kumamoto - which actually Each region has its own collection of hot springs. The consists of five volcanic peaks – and Mt. Nakadake, for short minerals in the water - as well as having healing properties – walking day trips. On the southern coast, the magnificent have a relaxing effect on body and mind. Onsen can be found stratovolcano of Sakurajima overlooks the nearby city of in public bathhouses, ryokans or even out in the unspoilt Kagoshima. Adventurous travelers who want a close-up of nature of Kyushu. the volcano will not be disappointed. It is too dangerous to Beppu – in the northeast of Kyushu – is Japan’s onsen capital climb around the crater, but there are many vantage points because of the large volumes of hot water welling up naturally within two hours walking distance. To the east of Nagasaki is from the springs. Beppu’s so-called “hells” are famous, with Mt. Unzen, surrounded by a beautiful nature park. Visitors can water too hot for bathing, but suitable for boiling eggs!. Near take in a walk through the fascinating volcanic surroundings, Beppu is Yufuin, an onsen town with a unique atmosphere. and then relax at the hot springs. Other onsen gems on Kyushu are Kurokawa, Unzen, Kirishima and Ibusuki.
24 Individual tours
© JNTO Kyushu Kyushu by car 11 days | from £ 1,297 pp 16 days | from £ 1,849 pp
Fukuoka Fukuoka
Yabakei Beppu Kurokawa Onsen Nagasaki Yufuin Nagasaki Mt. Aso Takachiho Kumamoto Kumamoto
Miyazaki Kagoshima Kagoshima Ibusuki
Visit all the highlights of Japan’s Discover the unspoilt countryside of southern island with the Kyushu Rail Kyushu with your own hire car. Explore Pass. Start in the lively shopping capital by yourself - supported by our of Fukuoka. Visit historic Nagasaki and information and suggestions, and an Kumamoto. Admire Sakurajima from the English speaking in-car Satnav - the coast of Kagoshima and try the beach most beautiful areas that are difficult to sauna in Ibusuki. reach by public transport. The roads are Explore the active volcano of Mt. Aso not busy: freedom, peace and nature and enjoy the hot springs in Yufuin. are yours to enjoy on this journey. Complete the circle by returning to Itinerary Fukuoka. 1. Arrive Fukuoka 2. Fukuoka Itinerary 3. Pick up hire car / Yabakei 4. Kurokawa 1. Arrive Fukuoka 2. Fukuoka Onsen 5. Kurokawa Onsen / Mt. Aso 3. Nagasaki Peace Park / atom bomb 6. Takachiho 7. Takachiho Gorge museum 4. Nagasaki Dejima / Glover 8. Miyazaki 9. Miyazaki / Aoshima and Park 5. Kumamoto / Kumamoto Castle Kirishima National Park 10. Kagoshima 6. Kagoshima / Sakurajima 7. Ibusuki / 11. Kagoshima / Sakurajima(volcano) and beachsauna 8. Mt. Aso 9. Yufuin the sand saunas of Ibusuki 10. Beppu 11. Return to Fukuoka 12. Kumamoto 13. Nagasaki 14. Nagasaki 15. Fukuoka 16. Return Includes: 7 nights accommodation with hire car at Fukuoka breakfast, 3 nights in Japanese ryokan incl. dinner and breakfast, 2 × 5-day Includes: 12 nights accommodation Kyushu Rail Pass, detailed itinerary, with breakfast, 3 nights in Japanese extra information. ryokan incl. dinner and breakfast (Yabakei and Kurokawa Onsen), hire car Excludes: flights, tours, personal (Toyota Corolla or similar) with English expenses Satnav, detailed itinerary, extra More info: japanspecialist.co.uk/tour_ information. package/kyushu/ Excludes: flights, tours, personal expenses More info: japanspecialist.co.uk/tour_ package/kyushu-by-car/
www.japanspecialist.co.uk 25 HOKKAIDO & OKINAWA Fire & Ice
The main islands of Japan lie between two extreme climates: subarctic Hokkaido in the north and the subtropical archipelago of Okinawa in the south. Hokkaido is popular with nature lovers, winter sports enthusiasts and hikers because of the large areas of nature reserves, flower fields, volcanoes, caldera lakes, hot springs and powder snow. Although extremely cold in winter, Hokkaido has pleasant summers, ideal for exploring this natural wilderness. In the far south, the Okinawa islands have a subtropical climate, coral reefs and beaches, and are a popular destination for both domestic and foreign travellers. Formerly the “Ryukyu” kingdom, this group of islands shows the influences from Korea and China which are reflected in the local cuisine, customs, art and language. Okinawa has a strong culture of its own that is different from the rest of Specialist tips! Japan. From the port of Naha (capital of Okinawa), ferries leave almost daily to (uninhabited) islands in the neighbourhood. A gem is Zamami - with idyllic beaches and a whale viewing point.
Ancient cultures Wildlife Both islands have their own indigenous cultures: the Ainu in The landscape of Hokkaido offers ideal habitats for brown Hokkaido worship nature, and their beliefs and lifestyle are bears, owls, foxes, deer, falcons and majestic cranes. Many close to the natural world, an “ecological life”. Their way of of the animal species are endangered, and can only be seen life concentrates on the use of nature, and this is reflected on and admired in the national parks and nature reserves of their clothing of natural materials. Hokkaido. The Ryukyu culture of Okinawa shows influences of Korea The snorkeling paradise of Okinawa and its waters are home and China as well as of mainland Japan. Traditional costumes to whales, turtles, spider crabs and beautiful coral reefs. are brightly coloured and local performing arts include the lion dance and other musical performances. The cuisine is a mix of local vegetables, tofu, pork, special buckwheat noodles and Okinawa-style tacos.
26 Individual tours
Explore Hokkaido by car Ishigaki Island, Okinawa 8 days | from £ 965 pp 5 days | from £ 809 pp
Naha
Sounkyou Shiretoko
Ishigaki
Sapporo Kushiro
Okinawa
Areas of stunning natural beauty to The best choice for an extension to your explore are Daisetsuzan National Park, Japan trip. The Okinawa island the remote Shiretoko-Hanto peninsula, archipelago is a subtropical paradise Kushiro Marshland – the home of red- where you can enjoy beach life, luxury crowned cranes - and Shikotsu-Toya and relaxation. There are many National Park with its volcanoes and possibilities for snorkeling, scuba diving, lakes. There are also a lot of hot springs health and spa facilities. Reach Ishigaki with the opportunity to relax and enjoy on a short domestic flight from Okinawa bathing Japanese-style. Explore by (Naha). yourself - supported by an English Itinerary speaking in-car Satnav - the most 1. Flight Okinawa – Ishigaki beautiful areas that are difficult to reach 2-4. Ishigaki Island by public transport. 5. Flight Ishigaki - Okinawa Itinerary Includes: 4 nights accommodation at 1. Arrive Sapporo 2. Sapporo Fusaki Resort, Ishigaki with breakfast. 3. Sounkyou 4. Sounkyou / Daizetsu Domestic return flight between Naha National Park 5. Shiretoko 6. Shiretoko and Ishigaki 7. Kushiro Shitsugen National Park 8. Return Excludes: international flights, tours, personal expenses, transport on Ishigaki Includes: 7 nights accommodation with breakfast, hire car (Toyota Corolla More info: japanspecialist.co.uk/tour_ or similar) with English Satnav, detailed package/okinawa/ itinerary, extra information. Excludes: international and domestic flights, tours, personal expenses More info: japanspecialist.co.uk/tour_ package/hokkaido/
www.japanspecialist.co.uk 27 WINTER SPORTS Japan’s powder snow is second to none.
Enjoy Japan’s snow! With its reliable falls of powder snow December – March, Japan offers great opportunities for skiing and snowboarding. Equiment hire is readily available in the resorts, and hotels in certain areas have hot spring bathing facilities too.
28 Winter sports
The major winter sports resorts in Hokkaido have been popular with the Australian market for several years, so English is spoken at many hotels, restaurant and ski shops. They can be reached by domestic flight from Tokyo or Osaka to Hokkaido’s gateway city of Sapporo, and regular coach services to the the resort areas. The ski towns of the Japan Alps have the advantage of being on Japan’s main island of Honshu, with easy access from Tokyo by train. Here we suggest three sample packages, to both Hokkaido and Honshu.
Nozawa Onsen Zao Furano 8 days | from £ 928 pp 8 days | from £ 1,080 pp 8 days | from £ 999 pp
Furano
Nozawa Onsen Zao Onsen
Tokyo
Tokyo Tokyo
Itinerary Itinerary Itinerary 1. Arrive Tokyo Haneda, train to 1. Arrive Tokyo Haneda, train to 1. Domestic flight Tokyo Haneda Nagano, and local bus to Nozawa Yamagata, and local bus to Zao to Asahikawa Airport, Hokkaido Onsen 2-5. Enjoy winter sports Onsen 2-5. Enjoy winter sports in Resort Liner to Furano in Nozawa Onsen 6. Transfer by Zao Onsen 6. Transfer by coach 2-5. Enjoy winter sports at Furano coach and train to Tokyo 7. Tokyo and train to Tokyo 7. Tokyo 6. Hokkaido Resort Liner to 8. Depart 8. Depart Asahikawa Airport for domestic flight to Tokyo Haneda 7. Tokyo Includes: 7 nights Includes: 7 nights 8. Depart accommodation incl. breakfast, accommodation incl. breakfast, JR East pass (5 days flexi), JR East pass (5 days flexi), Includes: Includes: 7 nights transfer by airport limousine bus transfer by airport limousine bus accommodation incl. breakfast, Haneda Airport – Tokyo return, ski Haneda Airport – Tokyo return, ski return transfer Tokyo Haneda pass 5 days. pass 5 days. Airport – Tokyo, return transfer Asahikawa Airport – Furano by Excludes: flights, travel Excludes: flights, travel Hokkaido Resort Liner, domestic insurance, personal expenses insurance, personal expenses flight Tokyo Haneda – Asahikawa More info: japanspecialist.co.uk/ More info: japanspecialist.co.uk/ return, ski pass 5 days. tour_package/nozawa/ tour_package/zao/ Excludes: flights, travel insurance, personal expenses More info: japanspecialist.co.uk/ tour_package/furano/
www.japanspecialist.co.uk 29 GROUP TOURS
ur group tours are specially Meet an international travel group made for the traveller who and get to know travellers from other likes to feels that the journey countries, led by English-speaking is taken care of down to the tour guides. All trips have guaranteed Olast detail. Finding out for yourself how departure! So you don’t have to wait to you get from A to B, where you will eat see if the group reaches the minimum that evening or get entrance tickets - in size. And there are departures all year an unfamiliar language - are things of round. Combine your full or partial the past. Take a seat in a comfortable group tour with your own individual coach and enjoy the Japanese journey, however it suits you best. landscape passing by: the whole journey Do you want to join the group tour as is organized for you. Our group tours soon as you arrive in Japan? A private offer 10 unique routes all over Japan transfer can be arranged for you from and more than 1500 departures have the airport on arrival. been operated since the start of the programme. Travelling alone? No problem! You have the option of a single room, or The carefully-planned routes are choose to share a room with another unique and flexible. Travelling by group member of the same gender. coach means that you can stop off at Children, travellers over 65, repeaters authentic villages, breathtaking views or honeymooners receive a discount. and places which are hard to reach by public transport. So you get not only For advice on which route best suits the highlights, but also the hidden your needs, please contact one of our treasures of Japan. Every day is special, travel consultants without obligation with varying combinations of cultural or see details on our website: attractions, interesting excursions, japanspecialist.co.uk/group-tours/ leisure time and of course lunch and/ These group tours are operated by or dinner so you can enjoy Japanese Europamundo, a member of the JTB cuisine. The best part is that you can Group. For specific conditions of decide in advance whether you want to Europamundo group tours, please follow the whole route, or just a part (it see japanspecialist.co.uk/group-tours/ is even possible to join for just one day!). europamundo-conditions
30 Complete escorted group tours 4-star hotels Guaranteed departures Combinable tour modules Book individually International group
ESSENTIAL JAPAN······························ 33 CONTRASTS OF JAPAN······················ 33 NORTH JAPAN END SAPPORO·········· 35 NORTH JAPAN····································· 35 WONDERS OF JAPAN························· 37 CENTRAL JAPAN································· 37 DISCOVER JAPAN 13 DAYS················· 39 DISCOVER JAPAN 15 DAYS················· 39
31 SHORT & SWEET, & MODERN AND TRADITIONAL JAPAN
GROUP TOURS
Specialist tips!
Take a seat in a famous café in a bookshop at the Shibuya Crossing. If you are lucky, there are places near the window on the 2nd floor for a good view from above. Miyajima is spectacular during low and high tide. Therefore, take a whole afternoon out for it!
Tokyo: Shibuya crossing Hiroshima: Miyajima You can’t have missed it, it features in almost every report Less than an hour from the centre of Hiroshima is the holy about Japan: the famous crossroads in Tokyo where island of Miyajima. It is instantly recognisable from the stately pedestrians invade the intersection from all sides in a red torii gate in the sea. The view is spectacular. The island’s spectacle of organized chaos. The crossing is in the lively actual name is Itsukushima – referring to the shrine of the district of Shibuya – a popular shopping and entertainment same name - but Miyajima or ‘shrine-island’ is used more district and centre for youth culture and trendy fashion. The often. The island is characterized by small shopping streets, intersection is surrounded by department stores, and giant hiking and mountain trails and is known for the deer which TV screens showing interactive advertising and video clips. roam free, considered as sacred. In this chaos stands the statue of the shibu inu dog named Hachiko - which according to the famous story, waited at Shibuya station for his owner, every day for seven years after his death. Now the statue is a famous meeting place in Shibuya.
32 Group tours
Essential Japan Contrasts of Japan 7 days | £ 1,485 pp (twin) £ 455 (single) 9 days | £ 1,945 pp (twin), £ 599 (single)
Nagoya Kyoto Nagoya Tokyo Himeji Tokyo Kyoto Hiroshima Mt.Fuji Miyajima Mt.Fuji Nara Okayama Nara/ Osaka Kuarashiki Osaka
Short and sweet! Experience the essential Extend your journey through the highlights of highlights of both modern and traditional Japan Japan by travelling even further west for a visit in a week. to Himeji, Miyajima and Hiroshima, treasures of western Japan. Experience even more intensely Itinerary the contrast between modern and traditional 1. Meet & Greet and transfer to Tokyo hotel Japan. 2. Tokyo / Shibuya / Akihabara / Asakusa / Sumo Stadium 3. Kawaguchiko / 5 Lake Ashi / 2305m Itinerary up Mt. Fuji / overnight in ryokan 4. Iyashi no Sato 1. Meet & Greet and transfer to Tokyo hotel Nenba / Shiraito Falls / Nagoya 5. Kyoto / Fushimi 2. Tokyo / Shibuya / Akihabara / Asakusa / Sumo Inari shrine / Golden Pavilion / Gion Stadium 3. Kawaguchiko / 5 Lake Ashi / 2305m 6. Nara / Osaka 7. End of the group tour in Osaka up Mt. Fuji / overnight in ryokan 4. Iyashi no Sato Nenba / Shiraito Falls / Nagoya 5. Kyoto / Fushimi Departures: 2-5 × per month (see website) Inari shrine / Golden Pavilion / Gion 6. Nara / Includes: 6 nights accommodation in good Osaka 7. Himeji Castle / Okayama 8. Kurashiki / midrange hotels, private coach touring with Miyajima / Hiroshima 9. End of the group tour in English-speaking guide, daily breakfast, airport Hiroshima (optional extension to Tokyo possible) transfer on arrival, transfer Shinjuku in Tokyo/ Departures: 2-5 × per month (see website) Dotonbori in Osaka, boat trip in Kawaguchiko, entrance fees, Mt. Tenjo cablecar, 2× lunch, Includes: 8 nights accommodation in good 3 × dinner. midrange hotels, private coach touring with English-speaking guide, daily breakfast, airport Excludes: flights, personal expenses transfer on arrival, transfer Shinjuku in Tokyo/ More info: japanspecialist.co.uk/ group_tour/ Dotonbori in Osaka, boat trip in Kawaguchiko and essential-japan Hiroshima/ Miyajima, entrance fees, cablecar on Mt. Tenjo and Mt. Shosha, 3 × lunch and 4 × dinner. Excludes: flights, personal expenses More info: japanspecialist.co.uk/group_tour/ contrasts/
www.japanspecialist.co.uk 33 OFF THE BEATEN TRACK: MID- AND NORTH JAPAN
GROUP TOURS
on
Specialist tips!
In the beginning of February it is Yuki Matsuri, Sapporo’s famous Snow Festival. The city’s main street is decorated with impressive snow and ice sculptures, steaming food stalls and even a snowboard ramp.
Hokkaido: Otaru Sendai: Matsushima Near Sapporo, the capital of the northern island of Hokkaido, On the coast of Sendai, an important base for discovering lies the small port town of Otaru. Because of its history as a Tohoku in northern Japan, is one of the three most trading port, this fishing town has a western appearance, with picturesque views of Japan: Matsushima Bay with its 200 brick warehouses, former trading offices and canals. During islands covered with pine trees. A short cruise is a great way the Snow Festival in February Otaru is decorated with lights to see the islets and admire them from every angle. and countless cute snowmen ranging from 20cm to 4 metres!
34 Group tours
North Japan end Sapporo North Japan 8 days | £ 1,825 pp (twin), £ 559 (single) 10 days | £ 2,569 pp (twin), £ 709 (single)
Otaru Sapporo Otaru Sapporo Noboribetsu Tomakomai Noboribetsu Hakodate Hakodate Aomori Aomori Morioka Morioka Hiraizumi Hiraizumi Yamadera Yonezawa/Aizuwakamatsu Sendai/Matsushima Sendai Matsushima Nikko Nikko Tokyo Tokyo
A perfect end to your individual Japan trip: join Extend your journey from Northern Japan and a group tour to Tohoku, the virtually unknown travel back to Tokyo via the eastern route to north of the main island of Honshu. Be surprised discover more treasures of Hokkaido and by the overwhelming beauty of the northern Tohoku. A unique addition is the journey by sea island of Hokkaido! A multitude of nature from Hokkaido to Sendai! reserves, flower fields, volcanoes, caldera lakes and hot springs make an unforgettable Itinerary impression. 1. Meet & Greet and transfer to Tokyo hotel 2. Tokyo / Shibuya / Akihabara / Asakusa /Sumo Itinerary Stadium 3. Nikko / Sendai 4. Matsushima / 1. Tokyo (airport transfer available) Hiraizumi / Morioka / Zen ceremony 5. Hirosaki 2. Tokyo / Shibuya / Akihabara / Asakusa /Sumo / Aomori / Hokkaido / Mt. Hakodate 6. Onuma / Stadium 3. Nikko / Sendai 4. Matsushima / Noboribetsu / Sapporo 7. Sapporo / Otaru Hiraizumi / Morioka / Zen ceremony 5. Hirosaki 8. Toyako Onsen / Tomakomai / night ferry to / Aomori / Hokkaido / Mt. Hakodate 6. Onuma / Sendai 9. Yamadera / Yonezawa Noboribetsu / Sapporo 7. Sapporo / Otaru 10. Aizuwakamatsu / Mito / tour ends in Tokyo 8. Tour ends in Sapporo Departures: 2 per month (see website) Departures: 2 per month (see website) Includes: 9 nights accommodation in good Includes: 7 nights accommodation in good midrange hotels, private coach touring with midrange hotels, private coach touring with English-speaking guide, daily breakfast, airport English-speaking guide, daily breakfast, airport transfer on arrival, transfer Shinjuku in Tokyo, transfer on arrival, transfer Shinjuku in Tokyo, entrance fees, cablecar at Mt.Hakodate and Mt. entrance fees, Mt.Hakodate cablecar, ferry Usu, ferry transfer Hokkaido and Sendai, transfer to Hokkaido, 5 × lunch and 1 × dinner. 7 × lunch and 2 × dinner. Excludes: flights, personal expenses Excludes: flights, personal expenses More info: japanspecialist.co.uk/group_tour/ north-japan-end-sapporo/ More info: japanspecialist.co.uk/ group_tour/ north-japan/
www.japanspecialist.co.uk 35 SURPRISINGLY DIFFERENT: EAST AND WEST JAPAN
GROUP TOURS
Specialist tips!
The Fushimi Inari shrine is accessible day and night. At night, a walk between the gates is extra mysterious.
Kyoto: Fushimi Inari shrine Shikoku: Matsuyama, Dogo Onsen The red torii-gates of the Fushimi Inari Shrine are iconic. The In the countryside of Shikoku, the smallest of the four main thousands of red gates, donated by local companies and islands, is the town of Matsuyama with Japan’s oldest organisations, follow the countless steps that meander up the bathouse: Dogo Onsen. The area is known for its many mountain. The shrine honours Inari - the Shinto deity of rice bathhouses and traditional ryokans. It is also one of the and the harvest – often depicted as a fox. favorite destinations for the Imperial family. Dogo Onsen Fushimi Inari is about 10 minutes from central Kyoto and is a Honkan is the most special – a wooden, public bathhouse superb sight on a sunny day when the gates glow in their dating from the 19e century. Because of its mysterious orange colour. The walk from the actual shrine to the top of atmosphere, the bath-house seems to come straight out of a the mountain takes about 3 hours: at around the halfway mark Ghibli film. Visitors can explore the town at their leisure clad in you are rewarded with a magnificent view of Kyoto. the light kimono known as a yukata.
36 Group tours
Wonders of Japan Central Japan 11 days | £ 2,505 pp (twin), £ 659 (single) 8 days | £ 2,059 pp (twin), £ 589 (single)
Kusatsu Nagano Nikko Matsumoto Tokyo Okayama, Tsumago Himeji Kyoto Nagoya Tokyo Kuarashiki Kyoto Hiroshima Kobe Mt.Fuji Nagoya Mt.Fuji Miyajima Nara/Osaka Naruto Takamatsu Matsuyama Kotohira
This journey includes not only Japan’s absolute On this popular trip you can visit all the highlights must-see highlights, but also the beauty of of Central Japan in a short time. The journey less-visited parts of Japan such as the island of takes in the diversity of Japan, from the busy Shikoku. Visit the mountain village of Iyashi no metropolis of Tokyo to the tranquil rural villages Sato Nenba, the countryside of Shikoku and the in the Japan Alps. Includes a stay at a ryokan - a famous old hot spring baths of Dogo Onsen. traditional Japanese inn - with bath fed by natural hot spring water and a multi-course Japanese Itinerary kaiseki dinner. 1. Meet & Greet and transfer to Tokyo hotel 2. Tokyo / Shibuya / Akihabara / Asakusa / Sumo Itinerary Stadium 3. Kawaguchiko / 5 Lake Ashi / 2305m 1. Meet & Greet and transfer to Tokyo hotel up Mt. Fuji / overnight at ryokan 4. Iyashi no Sato 2. Tokyo / Shibuya / Akihabara / Asakusa / Sumo Nenba / Shiraito Falls / Nagoya 5. Kyoto / Fushimi Stadion 3. Kawaguchiko / Fuji 5 Lakes / 2305m Inari shrine / Golden Pavilion / Gion up Mt. Fuji / overnight at a ryokan 4. Iyashi no 6. Nara / Osaka 7. Himeji castle / Okayama Sato Nenba / Shiraito Falls / Nagoya 5. Kyoto / 8. Kurashiki / Miyajima / Hiroshima 9. Matsuyama Fushimi Inari shrine / Golden Pavilon / Gion / Dogo Onsen 10. Kotohira / Takamatsu / Naruto 6. Tsumago / Matsumoto 7. Nagano / Jigokudani 11. Kobe / Group tour ends in Osaka Monkey park / Kusatsu / Ikaho Onsen 8. Nikko / Toshogu Temple / Group tour ends in Tokyo Departures: 2-4 × per month (see website) Departures: 2-4 × per month (see website) Includes: Includes: 10 nights accommodation in good midrange hotels, private coach touring Includes: Includes: 7 nights accommodation with English-speaking guide, daily breakfast, in good midrange hotels, private coach touring airport transfer on arrival, transfer Shinjuku in with English-speaking guide, daily breakfast, Tokyo/ Dotonbori in Osaka, boat excursion on airport transfer on arrival, transfer Shinjuku in Kawaguchiko, city tour of Tokyo and Kyoto, Tokyo, boat excursion on Kawaguchiko, city tour entrance fees, Mt. Tenjo cablecar / Matsuyama in Tokyo and Kyoto, entrance fees, Mt.Tenjo Castle/ Mt. Shosha, 5 × lunch and 4 × dinner. cablecar, 3 × lunches, 4 × dinners. Excludes: flights, personal expenses Excludes: flights, personal expenses. More info: japanspecialist.co.uk/ group_tour/ More info: japanspecialist.co.uk/ group_tour/ wonders-of-japan/ central-japan/
www.japanspecialist.co.uk 37 Complete and different: FROM TOKYO TO THE JAPAN ALPS & HOKKAIDO
GROUP TOURS
Specialist tips!
Combine your visit to Jigokudani with a stay in Yudanaka or Shibu Onsen: there is nothing like experiencing the real hot springs yourself.
Japan Alps: Tsumago Nagano: Jigokudani South of the Japan Alps lies the old Nakasendo trade route. Jigokudani or ‘hell valley’ is a name often used for valleys Tsumago is one of the best-preserved of the old trading posts with volcanic activity: hot steam seeps from vents and on the route: it breathes the feudal Edo period. Because fissures, creating a “hellish” scene. Special inhabitants of of the wooden houses, the lack of car traffic and above- this particular valley in Nagano are the world-famous “snow ground cables to spoil the view, it’s easy to imagine you monkeys” that come down during the winter months to soak have stepped back into older times. A walk from Tsumago in the hot springs. The monkeys are social animals and are to Magome - another trading post - or vice versa is highly very entertaining to watch. recommended, and a stay in a traditional ryokan makes it complete.
38 Group tours
Discover Japan Discover Japan 13 days | £ 3,079 pp (twin), £ 598 (single) 15 days | £ 3,925 pp (twin), £ 1,015 (single )
Sapporo Otaru Otaru Sapporo Noboribetsu Tomakomai Noboribetsu Hakodate Hakodate Aomori Aomori Morioka Morioka Hiraizumi Hiraizumi Yamadera Matsushima Aizuwakamatsu Sendai Sendai/Matsushima Nagano Kusatsu Nagano Matsumoto Nikko Kusatsu Matsumoto Nikko Tsumago Tsumago Kyoto Kyoto Tokyo Tokyo Nagoya Mt.Fuji Nagoya Mt.Fuji
This is a group tour that allows you to discover all Extend your journey from Northern Japan and the main highlights such as Tokyo, Kyoto and the travel back to Tokyo via the eastern route to Japan Alps, but also introduces you to Tohoku, discover more of Hokkaido and Tohoku. the virtually unknown north of the main island Itinerary of Honshu, and the surprising beauty of the 1. Meet & Greet and transfer to Tokyo hotel northern island of Hokkaido. 2. Tokyo / Shibuya / Akihabara / Asakusa / Sumo Itinerary Stadium 3. Kawaguchiko / Fuji 5 Lakes / 2305m 1. Meet & Greet and transfer to Tokyo hotel up Mt. Fuji / overnight in ryokan 4. Iyashi no Sato 2. Tokyo / Shibuya / Akihabara / Asakusa / Sumo Nenba / Shiraito Watervallen / Nagoya 5. Kyoto / Stadium 3. Kawaguchiko / Fuji 5 Lakes / 2305m Fushimi Inari shrine / Golden Pavilon / Gion up Mt. Fuji / overnight at ryokan 6. Tsumago / Matsumoto 7. Nagano / Jigokudani 4. Iyashi no Sato Nenba / Shiraito Falls / Nagoya Moneky park / Kusatsu / Ikaho Onsen 8. Nikko 5. Kyoto / Fushimi Inari shrine / Golden Pavilon / / Toshogu Temple / Sendai 9. Matsushima / Gion 6. Tsumago / Matsumoto 7. Nagano / Hiraizumi / Morioka / Zen ceremony 10. Hirosaki Jigokudani Monkey park / Kusatsu / Ikaho Onsen / Aomori / Hokkaido / Mt. Hakodate 11. Onuma / 8. Nikko / Toshogu Temple /Sendai Noboribetsu / Sapporo 12. Sapporo / Otaru 9. Matsushima / Hiraizumi / Morioka / Zen 13. Toyako Onsen / Usu volcano / Tomakomai / ceremony 10. Hirosaki / Aomori / Hokkaido / Mt. night ferry to Sendai 14. Yamadera / Yonezawa Hakodate 11. Onuma / Noboribetsu / Sapporo 15. Aizuwakamatsu / Mito / Tour ends in Tokyo 12. Sapporo / Otaru 13. Tour ends in Sapporo Departures: 2 × per month (see website) Departures: 2 × per month (see website) Includes: 14 nights accommodation in good Includes: 12 nights accommodation in good midrange hotels, private coach touring with midrange hotels, private coach touring with English-speaking guide, daily breakfast, airport English-speaking guide, daily breakfast, airport transfer on arrival, transfer Shinjuku in Tokyo, transfer on arrival, transfer Shinjuku in Tokyo, boat excursion Kawaguchiko/Matsushima/ boat excursion on Kawaguchiko /Matsushima/ Aomori-Hakodate/ Tomakomai-Sendai, city tour Aomori-Hakodate, city tour of Tokyo, Kyoto and of Tokyo, Kyoto and Sapporo, entrance fees, Sapporo, entrance fees, Cablecar at Mt. Tenjo/ cablecar at Mt.Tenjo/Mt.Hakodate/Mt.Usu, 9 × Mt.Hakodate, 7 × lunches and 4 × dinners. lunches and 5 × dinners. Excludes: flights, personal expenses Excludes: flights, personal expenses More info: japanspecialist.co.uk/ group_tour/ discover-japan/ More info: japanspecialist.co.uk/group_tour/ discover-japan-complete/
www.japanspecialist.co.uk 39 JAPAN TRAVEL
Flight time: 11 hours
Time difference: 8 or 9 hours
Health: vaccinations not necessary, Summers can be hot and humid with strong sun
Best time to visit: April, May, early June, end of September, October, Novembe
Emergency services: 110 (police), 119 (ambulance/fire), 0120 46 1997 (emergency help in English)
SEASONS Spring: pleasant–cherry blossoms at the end of March to beginning of April, Golden Week (first week of May) is high season Summer: very hot and high humidity, summer festivals / Obon (mid-August) is high season Autumn: pleasant– autumn colors, mid-November is high season Winter: dry cold, snow, low season, many shops close 1-3 January PASSPORT/VISA European passport holders do not need a visa for Japan. The passport must be valid during the stay. When you enter Japan as a tourist you will receive a “Temporary Visitor” stamp that allows a stay of up to 90 days. This is the stamp you need in order to obtain the Japan Rail Pass. LANGUAGE The main language is Japanese and most people working in tourism and logistics speak reasonable English. Announcements on the shinkansen and other trains are made in both Japanese and English. Station names, bus stops, road signs, ticket machines and street names are bilingual. Taxi and bus drivers usually do not speak English so carry a card with the name of your hotel or a map of the location where you want to go.
40 About Japan
MOBILE PHONES Although 3 and 4G devices have coverage in Japan, the costs are high. It is possible to buy sim cards or phones at the airport. For data, renting a pocket WIFI router is a good option: this is much cheaper than roaming. WIFI hotspots are available at various locations, and hotels provide it in the lobby and sometimes in rooms too. MONEY Currency: Yen ¥ Japan is still very much a cash society and credit card payments are not universally accepted. Large department stores usually accept Mastercard / Visa / American Express, but restaurants and small shops do not. Always take sufficient cash with you. For example, cash can be withdrawn at ATMs (with Cirrus logo) from CitiBank, Japan Post offices or SevenEleven. Check with your bank whether your debit card is set to “world”. Japan is one of the safest countries in the world and crime is minimal. Tipping is not done. ELECTRICITY The mains voltage is 110 Volts AC. Japanese plugs look like two flat pins. Do take any necessary transformer and a worldwide plug adapter. FOOD The Japanese eat out a lot, and in the cities there is an abundance of small local restaurants. These can also be found at the so-called food courts of department stores. They can be recognized by large display cases where plastic examples of dishes are displayed. Convenience stores or supermarkets are also good places to buy entire ready-to-eat meals. Popular dishes are: ▪▪ Bento: Lunchbox. Japanese food can often be eaten cold and is therefore easy to carry. Bento meals are available in almost every restaurant, station kiosks, supermarkets and in the shinkansen. ▪▪ Donburi: A bowl of steamed rice and various toppings such as fish, meat and vegetables. ▪▪ Okonomiyaki: Savory, thick pancakes. ▪▪ Ramen: Noodles in broth (chicken, meat etc.) with different toppings such as meat, tempura, seaweed, egg, onions etc. ▪▪ Sashimi: Thin slices of raw fish. Popular sashimi is salmon (sake), squid (ika), shrimp (ebi), tuna (maguro), mackerel (saba) and octopus (tako). ▪▪ Shabu Shabu: A dish where thinly-cut meat is cooked and simmered, often at the table by the diners themselves. ▪▪ Soba: Buckwheat noodles. ▪▪ Sukiyaki: Thinly sliced meat and vegetables fried on a hot plate. ▪▪ Takoyaki: Dough balls filled with pieces of octopus. ▪▪ Teishoku Lunch: A lunch set including miso soup, rice, pickled vegetables, meat or fish etc. ▪▪ Tempura: Deep-fried shrimps and / or vegetables. ▪▪ Teriyaki: Grilled meat, fish or chicken glazed with a sweet soy-based sauce. ▪▪ Udon: A thicker noodle served in a broth. Common toppings are onion, tempura or egg. ▪▪ Yakitori: Grilled chicken skewers.
41 where applicable). You also agree that any 5. IF YOU CHANGE YOUR REQUEST BOOKING such claims may be re-assigned to another If, after our confirmation invoice has been CONDITIONS – body, if that body has paid sums you have issued, you wish to change your travel claimed under the ATOL scheme. arrangements in any way, for example your INDIVIDUAL TRAVEL 3. ABTA chosen departure date or accommodation, we will do our utmost to make these Your contract is with JTB Europe Ltd., As a Member of ABTA, we are obliged changes but it may not always be possible. a member of ABTA. to maintain a high standard of service to you by ABTA’s Code of Conduct. We can Any request for changes to be made must 1. YOUR HOLIDAY CONTRACT also offer you an arbitration scheme for be in writing from the person who made When you make a booking you guarantee the resolution of disputes arising out of the booking or your travel agent. You will that you have the authority to accept this contract. The scheme is arranged by be asked to pay an administration charge and do accept on behalf of your party ABTA and administered independently. of £25, and any further cost we incur in the terms of these booking conditions. A It is a simple and inexpensive method making this alteration. You should be aware contract will exist as soon as we issue our of arbitration on documents alone with that these costs could increase the closer confirmation invoice. This contract is made restricted liability on you for costs. The to the departure date that changes are on the terms of these booking conditions, upper limit on claims is £ 5,000 per person made and you should contact us as soon as which are governed by English Law, and the and £ 25,000 per booking form. The scheme possible. Note: certain travel arrangements jurisdiction of the English Courts. You may doesn’t apply to claims which are solely in (eg. Discounted air tickets) may not be however choose the law and jurisdiction respect of physical injury or illness or their changeable after a reservation has been of Scotland or Northern Ireland if you consequences. It can however deal with made and any alteration request could incur choose to do so. If you had not seen these claims which include an element of minor a cancellation charge of up to 100% of that terms and conditions when you made your injury or illness subject to a limit of £ 1,500 part of the arrangements. booking and you are not happy to proceed on the amount the arbitrator can award 6. IF YOU CANCEL YOUR HOLIDAY with the booking now that you have seen per person in respect of this element. Your You or any member of your party may them please return all documentation to request for arbitration must be received cancel your travel arrangements at any us or to your travel agent, within 7 days of by ABTA within eighteen months of the time. Written notification from the person receiving these booking conditions. Your date of return from holiday. For injury who made the booking or your travel agent booking will be cancelled and your monies and illness claims, you can request the on your behalf must be received at our will be returned in full, provided you have ABTA Mediation Procedure and we have offices. Since we incur costs in cancelling not commenced your travel. This clause the option to agree to mediation. Further your travel arrangements, you will have to does not apply if your booking was made information on the Code and ABTA’s pay the applicable cancellation charges up within 10 weeks of travel. assistance in resolving disputes can be to the maximum shown in clause 7. Note: if 2. YOUR FINANCIAL PROTECTION found on www.abta.com. the reason for your cancellation is covered When you buy an ATOL protected flight 4. YOUR HOLIDAY PRICE under the terms of your insurance policy, or flight-inclusive holiday from us you will 1. We reserve the right to alter the prices of you may be able to reclaim these charges. receive an ATOL Certificate. This lists what any of the holidays shown in our brochure, 7. IF WE CHANGE OR CANCEL YOUR is financially protected, where you can get pricelist or website. You will be advised HOLIDAY information on what this means to you and of the current price of the holiday that It is unlikely that we will have to make and who to contact if things go wrong. you wish to book before your contract is changes to your travel arrangements, but We or the suppliers identified on your confirmed. we do plan the arrangements many months ATOL Certificate will provide you with the 2. We will require a deposit in order to in advance. Occasionally, we may have to services listed on the ATOL Certificate (or a confirm your travel arrangements. This make changes and we reserve the right to suitable alternative). In some cases, where will normally be 10% of the total amount, do so at any time. Most of these changes neither we not the supplier are able to do but the exact amount may depend on the will be minor and we will advise you or so for reasons of insolvency, an alternative arrangements you choose and the season your travel agent of them at the earliest ATOL holder may provide you with the in which you are travelling. For certain possible date. We also reserve the right services bought or a suitable alternative classes of air travel, for example, air tickets in any circumstances to cancel your travel (at no exra cost to you). You agree to need to be issued within 3 days; during arrangements. For example, if the minimum accept that in those circumstances the peak or festival periods, hotels may require number of clients required for a group travel alternative ATOL holder will perform those ful pre-payment in order to confirm the arrangement is not reached, we may have obligations and you agree to pay any money reservation. We will advise you of the actual to cancel it. However, we will not cancel outstanding to be paid by you under your amount of deposit required at the time of your travel arrangements less than 8 weeks contract to that alternative ATOL holder. booking. If you are booking within 60 days before your departure date, except for However, you agree that in some cases it of departure, you must make full payment reasons of force majeure or failure by you will not be possible to appoint an alternative at the time of booking. to pay the final balance. If we are unable to provide the booked travel arrangements, ATOL holder, in which case you will be 3. The price of your travel arrangements is you can either have a refund of all monies entitled to make a claim under the ATOL fully guaranteed and will not be subject to paid or accept an offer of alternative travel scheme (or your credit card issuer where any surcharges. applicable). arrangements of comparable standard 4. All monies you pay to the travel agent from us, if available (we will refund any If we, or the suppliers identified on your are held by him on behalf and for the price difference if the alternative is of ATOL certificate, are unable to provide the benefit of the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust lower value). If it is necessary to cancel services listed (or a suitable alternative, at all times. This is subject to the agent’s your travel arrangements, we will pay through an alternative ATOL holder or obligation to pay it to us for so long as we you compensation as set out in this otherwise) for reasons of insolvency, the do not fail. If we fail, any money held at clause. In accordance with EU Regulation Trustees of the Air Travel Trust may make the time by the agent, or subsequently 2111/2005 we are required to advise you a payment to (or confer a benefit on) you accepted from you by him, is and continues of the actual carrier operating your flights/ under the ATOL scheme. You agree that in to be held on behalf of and for the benefit connection flight/transfer. We do this by return for such a payment or benefit you of the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust without listing carriers to be used or likely to be assign absolutely to those Trustees any any obligation to pay that money to us. used as follows: Japan Airlines or subsidiary claims which you have or may have arising When you buy a holiday not including a company, All Nippon Airways or subsidiary, out of or relating to the non-provision of the flight, all monies paid to the travel agent are British Airways, Finnair, Asiaa Airlines, services, including any claim against us, held by him on our behalf at all times. Emirates, Air France, Alitalia, Lufthansa. the travel agent (or your credit card issuer Any changes to the actual airline after you
42 T & Cs
Period before departure within which If we make a major If we cancel your holiday If you cancel your holiday notice of cancellation or major change change to your holiday Amount you will receive from us Amount of cancellation charge is received by us or notified to you More than 60 days £ nil Deposit only Deposit only 59 – 42 days inclusive £ 15 100% of tour price + £15 30% of tour price 41-15 days inclusive £ 30 100% of tour price + £30 50% of tour price 14 – day of departure £ 45 100% of tour price + £45 100% of tour price have received your tickets will be notified if all due care had been exercised; or an 11. PASSPORT, VISA AND IMMIGRATION to you as soon as possible and in all cases event which we or our suppliers, even with REQUIREMENTS at check-in or at the boarding gate. Such a all due care, could not foresee or forestall. Your specific passport and visa change is deemed to be a minor change. Our liability, except in cases involving requirements, and other immigration Other examples of minor changes include death, injury or illness, shall be limited to a requirements are your responsibility and alteration of your outward/return flights by maximum of three times the cost of your you should confirm these with the relevant less than 12 hours, changes to aircraft type, travel arrangements. Our liability will also Embassies and/or Consulates. We do not change of accommodation to another of the be limited in accordance with and/or in an accept any responsibility if you cannot travel same standard. If we make a major change identical manner to: because you have not complied with any to your holiday, we will inform you or your a) The contractual terms of the companies passport, visa or immigration requirements. travel agent as soon as reasonably possible that provice the transportation for your 12. EXCURSIONS if there is time before your departure. You travel arrangements. These terms are Excursions or other tours that you may will have the choice of either accepting incorporated into this contract; and choose to book or pay for whilst you are on the change of arrangements, accepting an b) Any relevant international convention, holiday are not part of your package holiday offer of alternative travel arrangements of for example the Montreal Convention provided by us. For any excursion or other comparable standard from us if available in respect of travel by air, the Athens tour that you book, your contract will be (we will refund any price difference if the Convention in respect of travel by sea, the with the operator of the excursion or tour alternative is of lower value), or cancelling Berne Convention in respect of travel by rail and not with us. We are not responsible for your holiday and receiving a full refund of and the Paris Convention in respect of the the provision of the excursion or tour or for all monies paid. In all cases, except where provision of accommodation, which limit anything that happens during the course of the major change arises due to reasons of the amount of compensation that you can its provision by the operator. force majeure, we will pay compensation as claim for death, injury, delay to passengers detailed above. Our website and tour offering are our and loss, damage and delay to luggage. We responsibility, as your tour operator. They 8. IF YOU HAVE A COMPLAINT are to be regarded as having all benefit of are not issued on behalf of, and do not If you have a problem during your holiday, any limitation of compensation in these or commit the airlines mentioned or any airline please inform the relevant supplier (eg. any conventions. whose services are used in the course of your hotelier) and/or our representative You can ask for copies of the transport your travel arrangements. Please note that immediately who will endeavor to put companies’ contractual terms, or the in accordance with Air Navigation Orders things right. If your complaint is not international conventions, from our offices in order to qualify for infant status, a a child resolved locally, please follow this up within at No.1Farriers Yard 77 Fulham Palace Road must be under 2 years of age on the date of 28 days of your return home by writing to London W6 8JA, tel. 020 8237 1605. Under its return flight. our Customer Services Department at JTB EU law (Regulation 261/2004) you have Europe Ltd No.1 Farriers Yard 77 Fulham ACCURACY rights in some circumstances to refunds Palace Road London W6 8JA giving your We carefully check that the information and/or compensation from your airline in booking reference and all other relevant given in our website or published literature cases of denied boarding, cancellation or information. Please keep your letter about accommodation, itineraries etc., delay to flights. Full details of these rights concise and to the point. This will assist to ensure that it is correct to the best will be publicised at EU airports and will us to quickly identify your concerns and of our knowledge. However, there may also be available from airlines. However spped up our response to you. It is strongly be changes to flight timing and optional reimbursement in such cases will not recommended that you communicate any excursion itineraries may change as a result automatically entitle you to a refund of your complaint to the supplier of the services in of local conditions. Circumstances such as holiday cost from us. Your right to a refund question as well as to our representative these, or weather conditions, time of year and/or compensation from us is set out in and complete a report without delay. If you etc., may cause some of the amenities clause 6. If any payments to you are due fail to follow this simple procedure we will described to be unavailable or different from us, any payment made by you by the have been deprived of the opportunity to from those advertised in our website or airline will be deducted. NB. This clause investigate and rectify your complaint whilst published literature. We reserve the right does not apply to any separate contracts you were in resort and this may affect your to change any process, services or other that you may enter into for excursions or rights under this contract. Please also see particulars shown in this brochure at any activities while on holiday. clause 3 above on ABTA. time before we enter into a contract with 10. PROMPT ASSISTANCE IN RESORT you. If there is any change, we will notify 9. OUR LIABILITY TO YOU If the contract we have with you is not you before we enter into a contract. If the contract we have with you is not performed or is improperly performed as a performed or is improperly performed result of failure attributable to a third party by us or by our suppliers we will pay you All prices correct as at 01 August 2018, unconnected with the provision of the appropriate compensation if this has but are indicative “from” prices only. services, or as a result of failures due to affected the enjoyment of your travel Please see our website for current “from” unusual and unforeseeable circumstances arrangements. However we will not be prices. The actual price for your trip will beyond our control, the consequences of liable where any failure in the performance depend on availability of flights (if taken) which could not have been avoided even if of the contract is due to: you; or a third for your particular dates of travel, and all due care had been exercised, or an event party unconnected with the provision of exchange rates. which we or our suppliers, even with all due the travel arrangements and where the care, could not foresee or forestall, and you failure is unforeseeable or unavoidable; or suffer an injury or other material loss, we unusual and unforeseeable circumstances will offer you such prompt assistance as is beyond our control, the consequences of reasonable in the circumstances. which could not have been avoided even
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