In Fuji's Shadow - a Family Holiday in Japan - 2010/11 Itinerary
13 days - from $3570
• Experience futuristic Japan in Tokyo & ride the 'Bullet Train'
• Chance to climb iconic Mount Fuji
• Discover Kyoto's tranquil temples, Samurai film studios & tasty noodles!
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Futuristic Tokyo & Mount Fuji
In the bustling metropolis of Tokyo, flashing neon and 21st century skyscrapers fill the air and the buzzing streets provide a glimpse of the phenomena that is quintessential modern Japan. Escaping the crowds we head to the Fuji Go-ko where five lakes reflect the majestic and sacred mountain whose perfect snow-capped volcanic cone is an icon of the nation. The adventurous can follow in the footsteps of the pilgrims of the past and present, on an overnight ascent to watch sunrise from the summit (3776m).
Bullet Train to Kyoto
The amazing technology of the Shinkansen or 'Bullet Train' whisks us to Kyoto, the ancient capital of Japan, considered by many to be its cultural heart. We marvel at some of the 2000 temples in this wonderful city, and explore the parks and streets including a stroll through Gion, the haunt of the enigmatic Geisha. We visit the Samurai film studios, take a boat trip through steep, forested canyons along the Hozugawa River, and try our hand at the traditional art of the cloth dying. For those wishing to see even more, ever-efficient trains can quickly transport us to vibrant Osaka, inspirational Hiroshima or the ancient capital, Nara.
On the Izu Peninsula
The small resort town of Shimoda on the rugged Izu Peninsula makes for easy access to several good beaches. There's the chance to join Japanese families on a scenic boat trip around the bay or take the cable car up Mt Nesugata for some stunning views. A different scene again is observed from the top of Japan's tallest tower (which also boasts the world's fastest lift) in Yokohama, our final destination. We wander the streets of a thriving Chinatown and visit the delicious noodle museum.
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Itinerary:
Day 1 Join Tokyo. Days 2/3 Tokyo Explore the bustling metropolis by boat and train and there's the opportunity to visit the UNESCO listed temples of Nikko. Days 4/5 Mount Fuji We ascend by bus to the 5th station on Mount Fuji with the option to follow in the footsteps of pilgrims on an overnight trek to watch sunrise from the summit (3776m). Day 6 Bullet train An exhilarating train ride to Kyoto at 300kms per hour! Days 7/9 Kyoto We explore shimmering temples, visit the Samurai film studios and a monkey park, take a boat trip along the Hozugawa River and try our hand at the traditional art of cloth dying. Day trips to Osaka, Hiroshima or Nara are also possible. Days 10/11 At the beach We join holidaying Japanese families in Shimoda where we can take a boat trip or catch the cable car up Mt Nesugata for amazing views. Day 12 Noodle museum In Yokohama we ascend Japan's tallest building for a birds-eye view and visit the delicious noodle museum. Day 13 End Yokohama.
Accommodations: 4nts hotel, 4nts ryokan, 4nts guesthouse - the ryokan and Shimoda guesthouse have Japanese style accommodation, for further explanation of the nature of this and room share arrangements please see tour dossier; 12 breakfasts & 5 dinners included.
Transport: Bus/Trains/Boat.
Comment: You need to be fit to make the optional climb to the summit of Fuji which is graded strenuous and involves an overnight in a simple mountain hut before a pre-dawn ascent.
Group: Approx. 12 to 16.
Staff: Explore Tour Leader plus driver(s).
Trip Reference: FJS2010
