First time visitors are impressed by the green landscape and mountains, which cover nearly three quarters of the country. Japan, which is roughly the size of Germany consists of several thousands of islands, of which Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu and Shikoku are the four largest. Her rugged peaks, rocky coastlines, gorges, lakes, waterfalls and dense forests are breathtaking, but they put severe limits on liveable land. With seventy-five per cent of the land unsuitable for habitation or cultivation, the entire Japanese population of about 125,000,000 live in an area roughly the size of Tasmania. This makes Japan one of the most populated countries in the world in terms of people per square kilometre.

From the hi-tech speed and efficiency of the bullet train, which will whisk you to Osaka, to the serenity of Kyoto’s zen gardens and temples, Japan offers a unique mix of the modern and the traditional. This small group tour includes the best of everything Japan has to offer. It is designed for newcomers to Japan and follows a leisurely pace starting and ending in Tokyo, providing ample time to enjoy this modern metropolis, a city of pulsating energy. In between you’ll have the chance to experience the many different aspects which make Japan such a unique and fascinating country.

Japan is probably the safest country on the planet to visit, and one of the most courteous. Ask any local for instructions and they are sure to help, even if they don’t speak English (which most don’t). Should you lose your valuables, there is no need to stress. It will likely show up at the local police station – the people are wonderfully honest! Blue Dot’s engaged travel style means you will have every opportunity to meet Japanese people and do as the Japanese do. You’ll stay in a mix of traditional ryokans and hotels, and there’s a special opportunity to experience the seasonal “Miyako Odori’ dancing Geisha in a traditional theatre in Kyoto. You’ll also enjoy a private dinner with a Geisha performance.

For a peerless cultural “hit”, grab your camera and join us while we travel through this fascinating country.

INCLUDED

• All ground transportation as per itinerary
• Twin-share accommodation
• Transfers to and from hotels as per itinerary
• Meals as listed on the itinerary
• Entry fees to places of interest as per itinerary
• Experienced English-speaking local tour guide
• Escorted by an Australian host (subject to a minimum number of 10 clients)

NOT INCLUDED

• International flights to the start and end of the tour
• Electronic travel authorisation or tourist visa
• Travel insurance
• Any meals not indicated on the itinerary
• Optional excursions
• Items of a personal nature, e.g. drinks, laundry, telephone calls
• Transfers to and from airports if not travelling on group flights

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• Tour cost excludes international flights
• Tours depart with minimum of 4 clients
• No more than 16 clients on any trip
• Tour extensions – before or after tour extensions can be arranged on your behalf
• International flights can be arranged by Blue Dot Travel
• To book and reserve your place on a tour, a deposit of $500 and a completed booking form is required

ITINERARY

TOUR MAP