Scott Dunn: ANYTHING ELSE IS JUST A HOLIDAY

Description

This itinerary takes you to Hakone National Park and Miyajima Island, two of the best places to see Japan’s famous cherry blossom. You will have time to wander round and see the ever-changing beautiful colours of the cherry trees, an amazing sight and a reason to visit Japan in itself. In Hakone you can also take advantage of the famous geothermal springs and in Miyajima, make sure you visit the red ‘floating’ torii gate. In both places, you will stay in a Ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn with traditional tatami-mat style rooms and grand dinners made up of many courses included every night.

Whilst in Japan, it would be a shame not to visit the cities of Tokyo and Kyoto and a few nights in luxurious western hotels have also been included. When in Tokyo, it is worth getting up early to visit the largest fish market in the world, a fun experience where you can watch the auctions for huge tuna fish. Spend some time in Shinjuku with its neon lights and shop in Ginza and there are incredible restaurants that we can pre-book for you. Kyoto is the ancient capital of Japan and with over hundreds of Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines, there is lots to see. Spend some time in Gion, the Geisha district and if you are lucky you might see a Geisha going to an appointment in the late afternoon. You could even try on a kimono or take part in a traditional tea ceremony although this should be pre-booked.

Your last night is spent at the Park Hyatt, the iconic hotel of Tokyo where "Lost in Translation" was filmed before coming home.

Guide price £3,490 Per person

£3,490 Per person for 8 nights in Japan, based on 2 people sharing including international flights, transfers by public transport (bullet trains and ferries), breakfast throughout and dinner when staying at the Ryokans.

Itinerary

When to travel

Location and directions

Japan

Tokyo, Miyajima, Kyoto and Hakone