Going to Japan...
Yes, I have actually become motivated for once and booked a trip to Japan and a tour! *falls down in shock*
I'll be leaving on 16th Aug returning on the 7th Sept.
I'm taking an Intrepid Tour called Land of the Rising Sun, from the 20th August till 2nd September. I think its going to be really interesting. The group size is a maximum of 12, using local transport and accommodation. Great idea, at least there isn't shuttling between places in a nice bus, staying in Westernised Hotels!
Itinerary
Day 1 Tokyo
You can arrive at our joining point hotel at any time today as there are no planned activities. Please note that check-in time at our joining point hotel is not until 1.00 pm. Your leader will contact you to arrange a group meeting for the evening of day 1 followed by dinner.
Tokyo is the dynamic modern hub of an ancient land. The contradictions are everywhere, as high-tech gadgetry and neon lights are an integral part of life for a population steeped in tradition. As we spend only one night in Tokyo, we suggest you arrive a few days prior to the starting day of your trip in order to extend exploration of this dynamic city. We recommend visiting Ueno Park for its galleries and museums, Senso-ji temple or the sumo stables.
Days 2 - 3 Nikko
The morning is free for you to visit the outer grounds of the Imperial Palace before heading into the famous shopping district of Ginza where you have the option of attending a performance of Kabuki. Travelling out of Tokyo (approx. 2 hrs) we can appreciate the unique countryside that makes Japan such a fabulous destination. Nikko has been a sacred site since the middle of the 8th Century and the shrines and temples dotted throughout the area are inspiring evidence of this. A visit to Toshu-gu Shrine in particular is highly recommended. The best way to get to know Nikko is to simply explore at your own pace.
Days 4 - 5 Hakone
In the hot spring region of Hakone, we take a boat across Lake Ashino-ko followed by a picturesque cable car journey over the surrounding mountains (approx. 2-3 hrs). We may be lucky to sneak a peak at a postcard view of Mt. Fuji looming in the distance. Mt Fuji is very shy though, so getting a glimpse is not guaranteed. For those who are keen, bathing in the outdoor onsens is a real highlight for the area. Remember that no clothes or swimming costumes are allowed in the hot springs - time to shed those inhibitions!
Days 6 - 7 Takayama
Travelling by Shinkansen (bullet train) is an absolute buzz as we reach speeds of up to 270 km per hour! Needless to say, we get to Takayama very quickly (approx. 4 hrs). Takayama is famous for its traditional inns, sake breweries and the outdoor museum of the Hida Folk village. There is free time to explore the many folk art galleries, local markets, museums or just wander the streets of this delightful little town nestled amongst the Japanese Alps. One option is to hire a bicycle to get around this peaceful town.
Days 8 - 10 Hiroshima
Hiroshima is a bustling metropolis with a tragic history (approx. 5 hrs from Takayama by train). We have free time to visit the ruins of the A- Dome building, one of eleven structures left partially standing after the nuclear bomb blast on 6th August 1945, left as a horrifying reminder of the destruction of nuclear war. Around its perimeter is the peace park with monuments and a museum dedicated to Hiroshima and international peace. You can spend an afternoon at the nearby island of Miyajima with its famous 'floating' Torii Gate and the grand Itsukushima-jinja Shrine. Watch out for the inquisitive and eternally hungry deer that roam the streets of Miyajima.
Days 11 - 14 Kyoto
We travel on to Kyoto via Himeji-jo Castle, a sight to behold. Built in 1580, this five storey castle is not only a fantastic example of amazing architecture, but a great insight into ancient life in Japan. From Hiroshima to Kimeji-jo is approx. 1 hour, and then it's a further 1 hour on to Kyoto. Once in Kyoto there is just so much to do, with over 2000 temples, shrines and gardens. The magnificent gold-plated Kinkaku-ji Temple should not be missed; nor should a cultural performance at Gion Corner (optional). We can spend a day at Nara, home of Todai-ji Temple, the largest wooden building in the world and home to a 16m high Buddha. Kyoto is also a great place to get 'lost' in - walk the streets and soak in the wonderful atmosphere. The city's lively nightlife provides plenty of options for our final evening. There is so much to do in and around Kyoto you might choose to extend your stay here.
I have three days in Tokyo before I start the tour and then 5 days after to myself. Any suggestions on what I should do??
I'll be leaving on 16th Aug returning on the 7th Sept.
I'm taking an Intrepid Tour called Land of the Rising Sun, from the 20th August till 2nd September. I think its going to be really interesting. The group size is a maximum of 12, using local transport and accommodation. Great idea, at least there isn't shuttling between places in a nice bus, staying in Westernised Hotels!
Itinerary
Day 1 Tokyo
You can arrive at our joining point hotel at any time today as there are no planned activities. Please note that check-in time at our joining point hotel is not until 1.00 pm. Your leader will contact you to arrange a group meeting for the evening of day 1 followed by dinner.
Tokyo is the dynamic modern hub of an ancient land. The contradictions are everywhere, as high-tech gadgetry and neon lights are an integral part of life for a population steeped in tradition. As we spend only one night in Tokyo, we suggest you arrive a few days prior to the starting day of your trip in order to extend exploration of this dynamic city. We recommend visiting Ueno Park for its galleries and museums, Senso-ji temple or the sumo stables.
Days 2 - 3 Nikko
The morning is free for you to visit the outer grounds of the Imperial Palace before heading into the famous shopping district of Ginza where you have the option of attending a performance of Kabuki. Travelling out of Tokyo (approx. 2 hrs) we can appreciate the unique countryside that makes Japan such a fabulous destination. Nikko has been a sacred site since the middle of the 8th Century and the shrines and temples dotted throughout the area are inspiring evidence of this. A visit to Toshu-gu Shrine in particular is highly recommended. The best way to get to know Nikko is to simply explore at your own pace.
Days 4 - 5 Hakone
In the hot spring region of Hakone, we take a boat across Lake Ashino-ko followed by a picturesque cable car journey over the surrounding mountains (approx. 2-3 hrs). We may be lucky to sneak a peak at a postcard view of Mt. Fuji looming in the distance. Mt Fuji is very shy though, so getting a glimpse is not guaranteed. For those who are keen, bathing in the outdoor onsens is a real highlight for the area. Remember that no clothes or swimming costumes are allowed in the hot springs - time to shed those inhibitions!
Days 6 - 7 Takayama
Travelling by Shinkansen (bullet train) is an absolute buzz as we reach speeds of up to 270 km per hour! Needless to say, we get to Takayama very quickly (approx. 4 hrs). Takayama is famous for its traditional inns, sake breweries and the outdoor museum of the Hida Folk village. There is free time to explore the many folk art galleries, local markets, museums or just wander the streets of this delightful little town nestled amongst the Japanese Alps. One option is to hire a bicycle to get around this peaceful town.
Days 8 - 10 Hiroshima
Hiroshima is a bustling metropolis with a tragic history (approx. 5 hrs from Takayama by train). We have free time to visit the ruins of the A- Dome building, one of eleven structures left partially standing after the nuclear bomb blast on 6th August 1945, left as a horrifying reminder of the destruction of nuclear war. Around its perimeter is the peace park with monuments and a museum dedicated to Hiroshima and international peace. You can spend an afternoon at the nearby island of Miyajima with its famous 'floating' Torii Gate and the grand Itsukushima-jinja Shrine. Watch out for the inquisitive and eternally hungry deer that roam the streets of Miyajima.
Days 11 - 14 Kyoto
We travel on to Kyoto via Himeji-jo Castle, a sight to behold. Built in 1580, this five storey castle is not only a fantastic example of amazing architecture, but a great insight into ancient life in Japan. From Hiroshima to Kimeji-jo is approx. 1 hour, and then it's a further 1 hour on to Kyoto. Once in Kyoto there is just so much to do, with over 2000 temples, shrines and gardens. The magnificent gold-plated Kinkaku-ji Temple should not be missed; nor should a cultural performance at Gion Corner (optional). We can spend a day at Nara, home of Todai-ji Temple, the largest wooden building in the world and home to a 16m high Buddha. Kyoto is also a great place to get 'lost' in - walk the streets and soak in the wonderful atmosphere. The city's lively nightlife provides plenty of options for our final evening. There is so much to do in and around Kyoto you might choose to extend your stay here.
I have three days in Tokyo before I start the tour and then 5 days after to myself. Any suggestions on what I should do??