Links Travel and Tours Brochure 20-21

1 64 2 5 7 10 11 13 12 15 3 1 TOKYO - The capital of Japan, Tokyo 6 TAKAYAMA - The beautifully 11 HOKKAIDO - Home to vast expanses encapsulates Japan’s modernity and preserved old town of Hida-Takayama is of unspoiled mountain scenery and eccentricity at its finest. Some of the filled with Edo-style streets, sake breweries abundant wildlife, and a nature lover’s unmissable attractions include the Imperial and craft shops. The twice-yearly paradise. The world-class ski resorts make Palace and Sensoji Temple. Takayama Festival, is one of Japan’s best. it a great winter destination. 2 KYOTO - Home to a plethora of 7 SHIRAKAWAGO AND 12 OKINAWA - The tropical island chain GOKAYAMA - These tranquil, UNESCO-listed temples and shrines, of Okinawa boasts amazing coral reefs, and famous for its flavourful green tea. UNESCO-listed, mountain villages are white sand beaches and a fascinating You may meet some ‘Maiko’, apprentice famous for their traditional gassho-zukuri cultural heritage that is a mix of Japan Geisha, in the Gion district. farmhouses with steep thatched roofs, and and Southeast Asia. picturesque setting. 3 MOUNT FUJI - Known as ‘Fuji-san’, 13 NIKKO -hLocated along Japan’s 8 KANAZAWA - Kanazawa is home Japan’s iconic mountain, has provided the Romantic Road, north of Tokyo, and to historic residences, modern museums, home to the Nikko National Park, the spiritual basis for the country since ancient fresh food markets and Kenrokuen, one Nikko Toshogu Shrine, Tokugawa Ieyasu’s of the most beautiful gardens. mausoleum, the Kegon Falls and Lake times. The mountain is officially open for Chuzenji. 9 MATSUMOTO- Home to the majestic climbing during July and August. 14 NAKSENDO WAY - The Matsumoto Castle, and is also the perfect 4 HAKONE - One of Japan’s most base for exploring the Japanese Alps. The Nakasendo Way, an ancient walking trail Taiko Festival and the Takigi-Noh are held that linked Kyoto and Tokyo during popular hot spring resorts situated less at the castle in the summer. Japan’s Edo period, has many historic post towns, including Tsumago, which has than two hours from Tokyo and an ideal 10 YUDANAKA-hThis traditional hot been preserved to look as it did when it originally served travellers of the place to stay in a ryokan with onsen, spring resort is the ideal location when Nakasendo. visiting the famous Snow Monkeys just 10 enjoying Hakone National Park and views minutes away by bus. We recommend an 15 KUMANO KODO - Kumano Kodo overnight stay in a ryokan with onsen. of Mt Fuji. is a network of pilgrimage trails, through the southern Kansai region, linking sacred 5 HIROSHIMA AND MIYAJIMA areas on the Kii Peninsula; Hongu Taisha, - Home to two World Heritage Sites, Hayatama Taisha and Nachi Taisha. including the Atomic-Bomb Dome at the Hiroshima Peace Park, and Miyajima, famed for its giant ‘floating’ Torii Gate. Visit your local travel agent, or call 020 8543 8133 5151

JAPAN TRAVEL GUIDE INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS We work with a wide range of airlines including British Airways, Emirates, Cathay Pacific, Singapore Airlines, KLM, Air France and Finnair. Domestic departures and stopovers can also be included. Simply provide us with your preferred UK departure airport and we will arrange your ideal holiday to suit your wishes. JAPAN RAIL PASS Japan offers a new type of adventure, allowing you to visit the more remote locations. Many road signs are in English Only available to visitors to Japan, and must be pre booked, and cars have SAT NAV as standard. Please visit our the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) offers excellent value for money Self-Drive Holidays on pages 72-73 for further details on car if you are planning to visit several cities during your time hire in Japan. here. The JR Pass is issued by Japan Railway (JR), is valid for 7, 14 or 21 day durations and provides you with unlimited LUGGAGE FORWARDING travel on Japan’s extensive travel network. This includes the world famous Shinkansen Bullet Train (excluding Nozomi This reliable service is common practice in Japan whereby class trains), the entire Japan Railways service, a selection of you can forward your luggage to your next accommodation buses and ferries including to Hiroshima and Miyajima or to any of Japan’s main airports, giving you the Island. Based on your travel preferences, further details about convenience of travelling to more remote locations with just your JR Pass are provided at the time of quotation. an overnight bag. Please enquire for further details. PUBLIC BUSES AND CHARTERED COACHES WALKING AND CYCLING Travelling by public bus or by chartered coaches are Many of our tours involve walking as it is the most suitable convenient and comfortable ways of travelling in Japan, and more authentic way to see attractions. Japan’s excellent especially in the mountainous regions. Your quote will public transport is used on select days during some of the highlight how best to see the area and the mode of transport tours so walking is needed to get from hotels, stations and that works best for your tour. places of interest. Guided cycling tours are available in most cities. These leisurely rides provide excellent viewing TAXIS opportunities not found with other modes of transportation. For the more adventurous try some of the cycling routes Taxis are widely available and can deliver customers to found in the more remote and mountainous regions. addresses written in Japanese or on business cards. If the red light in the lower left corner of the windshield is lit, then the VISA cab is free and it can be flagged down. Nationals of many countries are eligible to enter Japan CAR HIRE without a visa unless the purpose of the visit is to reside in Japan, to obtain employment or to otherwise engage in With the convenience of driving on the left, renting a car in remunerative activities. 52 Visit www.linkstravelandtours.co.uk for more details

MONEY LANGUAGE The unit of Japanese currency is the yen. Coins are available The national language is Japanese which is spoken by in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 50, 100 and 500 yen, and everyone. Many, but not all, service staff in hotels and bank notes in denominations of 1,000, 2,000, 5,000 and tourist areas can speak English. If you explore by yourself, 10,000 yen. take a copy of the hotel business card to assist the driver TIPPING with directions. Tipping is not a way of life and is not expected in Japan. CUISINE However, if you feel that your guide has performed exceptionally well, a tip is considered appropriate and will Japan is known for its delicious cuisine. Some Japanese always be gratefully received. We recommend around 3000 specialties include: noodles, Sushi and Sashimi, Tempura, yen (£ 20) per person for a 2-week trip. Yakitori, Kaiseki, Donburi, Teppanyaki, salads and Japanese curries. Bento boxes, which offer a selection of different dishes including rice, meat or fish and pickled vegetables, are also popular. WEATHER Japan is a unique destination on many different fronts including the vast range of temperatures on offer throughout the year. From the powder snow found on the ski slopes in Hokkaido during the winter period, to the subtropical climates in the southern islands including Okinawa and Ishigaki. Japan is truly an all-year round destination and has something special to offer at any one time. To witness spectacular colour, a favourite is the celebrated cherry blossom season in April and koyo leaf viewing from October to early December (regions vary). These are very popular times to travel so it is advised to book early to avoid disappointment. The Average Temperatures Temp °C Jan Feb Mar Apr May June July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec Hakone Hiroshima 9 9 12 17 22 24 28 30 26 21 16 11 Kanazawa 4 5 8 13 18 21 26 17 23 17 11 7 Kyoto 3 3 6 12 17 21 25 27 22 16 11 6 Okinawa 5 6 9 14 19 23 27 29 24 18 13 7 Osaka 16 16 18 21 24 26 28 28 27 25 21 18 Sapporo 6 6 10 15 20 24 28 29 25 19 14 9 Tokyo -5 -4 0 6 12 16 20 22 17 11 4 -2 Yudanaka 5 6 9 14 18 21 25 26 23 18 12 8 10 10 14 18 24 26 31 32 29 23 18 13 Visit your local travel agent, or call 020 8543 8133 53

JAPAN GROUP TOURS We have devised a range of group and semi-escorted tours, as well as tailor-made journeys to make the planning of your holiday to Japan simple and easy to follow. If you are unsure which type of itinerary is right for you, please speak to one of our Personal Travel Advisors who are here to discuss your plans and offer their expert guidance. We have set out below, information about our group tours, how they work and what makes them special. EXCELLENT VALUE Our fully escorted group tours are led by English speaking guides who have a passion for Japan. Our selection of group tours enable you to the country’s many wonders, with like-minded travellers, on a range of itineraries that last from 9 days to 15 days. Breakfast is included, along with a selection of lunches and dinners along with iconic sights and locations. These group tours will incorporate many of the highlights Japan has to offer, discovering some truly memorable places, and offer great value. “ The whole holiday was fantastic and we thoroughly enjoyed it. The cherry blossom was fully out and was stunning. The guide was very knowledgeable and well organised and spoke very good English. He was Japanese which enabled him to give us some interesting background to Japanese culture, beliefs and ” traditions. Mike and Janet - April 2019 54 Visit www.linkstravelandtours.co.uk for more details

YOUR GROUP TRANSPORTATION We cater for all ages, solo travellers, couples, Depending on the nature of the tour, families and small groups of friends. Our group transportation will include air-conditioned tours normally operate with a maximum of 25 coaches, public transport and trains, offering you people, and run at a leisurely pace. Your English the chance to experience the ‘real Japan’. speaking guides escort you through Japan’s history and culture, whilst you sample a variety of GUIDES amazing cuisine and experiences. Some of the All of our guides speak English and are fully included day excursions involve flights of stairs qualified, allowing you to benefit from their and an amount of walking, so to get the most out knowledge and experience, whilst introducing you of your group tour, a moderate level of fitness is to local cultures. They will be on hand to help preferred. These fixed itineraries have set departure where necessary, and ensure your introduction to dates that will not change. Japan is a truly memorable one. ACCOMMODATION EXTEND YOUR HOLIDAY We select from a range of accommodation for You can add extra nights at the beginning or end our tours, the style of which can vary from one of the tour to experience another region or destination to the next, and each of our itineraries destination. You may wish to spend a few days in uses carefully selected standard accommodation, Hong Kong (see page 41), relax on the beach in a sample of which can be found on the individual Okinawa, or walk the Nakasendo Way. See pages tour pages. Some tours include the unique 80 - 85 for more ideas. experience of an overnight stay in traditional Japanese accommodation (ryokan / Minshuku INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS / Shokubo see pages 92 - 95), along with the Our tour rates include international flights from opportunity to experience a Japanese hot spring London or your nearest regional airport. We only (onsen). When staying in traditional Japanese work with reputable airlines and offer both direct accommodation, beds will usually be futon-style. and stopover options, whichever best suits your If you would like to upgrade to superior or deluxe requirements. Please speak to one of our accommodation, then please call our experts for experienced Personal Travel Advisors for more further details. It is also worth noting that room information on the options available. sizes in Japan tend to be more compact, especially in the larger cities. Visit your local travel agent, or call 020 8543 8133 55

ESSENTIAL JAPAN Osaka Castle 9 DAY TOUR from £3,699 Kimono and geta traditional Japanese footwear The Essential Japan tour is perfect for the first JAPAN time traveller to Japan. Enjoy spending time in the vibrant capital, Tokyo. Take a journey to the Inbound flight 5th station at Mt. Fuji, marvel at Japan’s highest mountain with its single, volcanic snowy peak. The Takayama TOKYO to Tokyo cultural city of Kyoto is where you will discover beautiful gardens, ancient temples and traditional ........ 2 NIGHTS townhouses. Learn about Hiroshima and its past and present. Visit Itsukushima Shrine, said to be K2 YNIOGH.TT.SO................M.t.F.u.ji Hakone one of the three most beautiful sights in Japan, 1 NIGHT and try delicious Japanese cuisine, Takoyaki (octopus balls) and Okonomiyaki (savoury 1 NIGHT 1 NIGHT pancake) in Osaka, your final destination. HIROSHIMA OSAKA KYUSHU Nara Outbound flight to UK ........ Flight Drive Train Cruise Day 1 Fly to Tokyo Take a scheduled flight from your regional airport to Tokyo. I just got back from the Japanese Essential 9 day tour which Day 2 Arrive Tokyo Arrive at Tokyo’s Narita or Haneda International airport where “ was a fantastic experience. you will be welcomed by our representative and transferred to ”Kevin – Oct 2018 your accommodation. The rest of the day is at your leisure. Your Sample Accommodation Day 3 Tokyo City Tour (B) Start the day with a visit to Hamarikyu Garden, located at the Tokyo: Sunshine City Prince mouth of the Sumida River and filled with Cherry Blossom Mount Fuji: Resorpia Atami trees in spring. Enjoy a cruise on the Sumida River for a unique Kyoto: Karasuma Kyoto Hotel view of the city from the water. Then, experience a traditional Hiroshima: The Royal Park Hotel Hiroshima Riverside Japanese tea ceremony, see the Sensoji Temple and the popular Osaka: Hotel Elsereine Osaka Nakamise Street, said to be one of the oldest shopping streets in Japan. Then stroll around Shinjuku, a lively shopping and Accommodation will be as named above or similar entertainment area. The day ends with a visit to the observation 56 Visit www.linkstravelandtours.co.uk for more details

SMALL GROUP TOURS deck at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for spectacular views of the city. Day 4 Mt. Fuji and Hakone (BLD) Day 7 Kyoto to Hiroshima (BD) Extend your holiday Your main luggage will be transferred from Your main luggage will be transferred from Tokyo to Kyoto. Pack a small bag for your Kyoto to Osaka, so pack a small bag for 3 days in Hong Kong from £299 stay at Mt. Fuji. View the scenery of rural your stay in Hiroshima. After breakfast, catch 4 days in Okinawa from £868 Japan as you drive towards Mt. Fuji and a bullet train to Hiroshima, where you will be Hakone. Take a pleasure boat cruise across met and taken by ferry to Miyajima to visit 4 days in Dubai from £350 the peaceful Lake Ashi, relaxing in the the Itsukushima Shrine. Here, the mountains, Includes: transfers, 4★ accommodation picturesque and serene natural beauty of this sea and shrine blend in harmony, to create a crater lake. Ride the Owakudani Ropeway, magical scene. Upon return to Hiroshima, and daily breakfast an aerial lift with spectacular views of the visit the Peace Memorial Park, and the See pages 41, 83 - 86, 144 surrounding areas including Mt. Fuji and Genbaku-dome (The Atomic Bomb Dome), Ashinoko Lake. Lunch at a local restaurant, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site Departures and Prices and marvel at the panoramic view from in 1996. 2020 and 2021 the mountains 5th station about 2,300 metres above sea level. (Subject to weather Day 8 Hiroshima to Osaka (B) Depart Return conditions). Transfer to your accommodation Make your way to the station by foot, for a where tonight’s dinner will be served. bullet train to Osaka. On arrival, your guide 05/04/20 -- 13/04/20 from £3,799 will take you to visit Osaka Castle. The tour Day 5 Mt. Fuji to Kyoto and Nara (B) ends in the Dotonbori District, one of the 19/04/20 -- 27/04/20 from £3,699 After breakfast take your transfer to Atami or most famous areas of the city, known for its Odawara Station for a bullet train to Kyoto, restaurants and tasty street food. 10/05/20 -- 18/05/20 from £3,699 where, you will be met and taken for a tour of Nara. Visit the Todaiji (Great Buddha) Day 9 Fly to UK (B) Temple, the picturesque Nara Park, home Time at leisure before being transferred to to hundreds of freely roaming deer, and the Kansai International Airport for your flight Kasuga Taisha Shrine. back to the UK. Day 6 Kyoto City Tour (B) 11/10/20 -- 19/10/20 from £3,699 Your Kyoto City Tour includes the Nijo Castle which was built in 1603, and the beautiful 08/11/20 -- 16/11/20 from £3,699 Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion), a zen temple where the top two floors are covered in gold leaf. The afternoon includes the Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, home to thousands of torii gates, and the Buddhist Sanjusangendo Temple, filled with 1001 statues of Kannon, the Goddess of mercy. Finally, enjoy the panoramic view of Kyoto from the main hall of the Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Your tour ends in the atmospheric Gion district, where you can explore and may perhaps glimpse a Geisha on her way to her evening appointments. 11/04/21 -- 19/04/21 from £3,799 09/05/21 -- 17/05/21 from £3,799 Single supplement from £550 Land only from £2,799 Price includes: International flights, accommodation, English speaking guides, transfers, bullet trains, baggage transfers for one piece, meals as specified (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner). Price excludes: Local tips, personal spending and travel insurance. ALSO available as A private Tour Visit your local travel agent, or call 020 8543 8133 57

DISCOVER JAPAN BY RAIL 13 DAY TOUR from £2,595 High Speed Railway, Mount Fuji Aomori A comprehensive 13 day, land only tour exploring JAPAN the very best of Japan’s cultural, natural and UNESCO locations, making use of the country’s 2 NIGHTS ........ efficient railways. Journey on the famous bullet Kanazawa train, marvel at Mt. Fuji, stroll around cultural Kyoto, and discover the renowned Golden Pavilion. Takayama TOKYO Other highlights include the 250 year old historic 1 NIGHT gassho-zukuri farmhouses in Shirakawago, a Mt Fuji 3 NIGHTS + 2 NIGHTS magnificent traditional Japanese garden in Kanazawa, the friendly deer in Nara, and the 2 NIGHTS Hakone “floating” Itsukushi-ma Shrine in Miyajima. All this and more, using the included 14-Day Japan Rail KYOTO Pass. HIROSHIMA OSAKA Nara Note: This tour involves a lot of walking, so a 1 NIGHT good level of fitness is required. Miyajima 1 NIGHTS ........ Flight Drive Train Cruise Day 1 Arrive Tokyo On arrival at the airport in Tokyo, you will be welcomed by our representative and transferred to your accommodation. The rest of the day is at leisure. Your Sample Accommodation Day 2 Tokyo Tour (BL) Start the day with a visit to the Meiji Shrine, a Shinto shrine Tokyo: Sunshine City Prince dedicated to Emperor Meiji. Observe modern Japanese culture Kyoto: Karasuma Kyoto Hotel and fashion, on a walk through the Harajuku district. See the Hiroshima: The Royal Park Hotel Hiroshima Riverside famous Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest intersections in the Osaka: Hotel Elsereine Osaka world. Continue to Hamarikyu Garden, located at the mouth of Takayama: WAT Hotel & Spa the Sumida River. End the day at the World Trade Centre Kanazawa: Hotel Kanazawa Observatory, with breathtaking views of the city. Accommodation will be as named above or similar Day 3 Mt. Fuji and Hakone Day Tour (BL) Catch the bullet train to Odawara, and relax on a pleasure boat 58 Visit www.linkstravelandtours.co.uk for more details

SMALL GROUP TOURS cruise across tranquil Lake Ashi, admiring the picturesque surroundings. Ride the thrilling Hakone Ropeway, an aerial lift with spectacular views of Mt. Fuji and Ashinoko Lake. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and return to your hotel in Tokyo. Pack a small bag for tonight, as your main luggage will be transferred overnight from Tokyo to Kyoto. Day 4 Tokyo to Kyoto and Nara (B) train to Osaka. On Arrival, you will be met Day 12 Tokyo (B) After breakfast, a bullet train will whisk you to and taken to Osaka Castle and the Day at leisure or enjoy some optional tours Kyoto and onwards to Nara. Visit the Todaiji Dotonbori District, one of the most famous in Tokyo. Temple (Great Buddha), the deer in the areas of Osaka, known for its varied verdant Nara Park, and the Kasuga Taisha restaurants, to enjoy a tasty street food lunch. Day 13 Onward Journey (B) Shrine. Return to Kyoto and check-in to your The remainder of the day is at leisure. Enjoy breakfast at the hotel, before making accommodation. your onward journey. Day 8 Osaka to Takayama (B) Day 5 Kyoto Day Tour (B) Morning departure by train for Takayama. Extend your holiday Today’s Kyoto Day Tour includes visits to Visit Takayama-Jinya, a former government Nijo Castle which was built in 1603, the out-post, and explore fascinating 4 days on the Nakasendo Way from £699 beautiful zen Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Kamisannomachi Street, filled with lanes 5 days in Ishigaki from £735 Pavilion), where the top two floors are lined with Edo period wooden merchants 4 days in Dubai from £350 completely covered in gold, and the houses. Check-in to your accommodation. Kiyomizu-dera Temple, which has a stunning Includes: transfers, accommodation and panoramic view of Kyoto. The tour ends Day 9 Takayama to Shirakawago to daily breakfast with some free time in the fascinating Gion Kanazawa (B) District, to explore the winding back streets Travel by local bus to the UNESCO World See pages 83 - 86, 144 where you may see Geisha or Maiko as they Heritage-listed Shirakawago, famous for the travel to their evening appointments. 250 year old traditional Gassho-zukuri Departures and Prices farmhouses. Continue by local bus to 2020 and 2021 Day 6 Kyoto to Hiroshima Kanazawa and check-in at your and Miyajima (B) accommodation. Depart Return Your main luggage will be transferred from 03/03/20 -- 15/03/20 from £2,695 Kyoto to Takayama. Pack a small bag for Day 10 Kanazawa (B) 12/05/20 -- 24/05/20 from £2,695 your stay in Hiroshima and Osaka. After This morning visit the traditional Japanese 09/06/20 -- 21/06/20 from £2,595 breakfast, leave Kyoto by bullet train bound Kenrokuen Garden, and the Gold Leaf 01/09/20 -- 13/09/20 from £2,595 for Hiroshima. On arrival you will be met Museum in Kanazawa for an enjoyable Gold 06/10/20 -- 18/10/20 from £2,695 and transferred to the ferry to Miyajima. Leaf experience. The tour finishes on historic 20/10/20 -- 01/11/20 from £2,695 Here, the beautiful Itsukushima Shrine blends Higashi Chaya Street, filled with traditional 03/11/20 -- 15/11/20 from £2,695 with the mountains and sea to form one of wooden buildings. 17/11/20 -- 29/11/20 from £2,695 the country’s most picturesque vistas. Return 02/03/20 -- 14/03/21 from £2,695 to Hiroshima and visit the Peace Memorial Day 11 Kanazawa to Tokyo (B) 11/05/21 -- 23/05/21 from £2,695 Park, the Genbaku-dome (The Atomic Bomb Hop aboard the bullet train for your journey 08/06/21 -- 20/16/21 from £2,595 Dome), designated a UNESCO World from Kanazawa to Tokyo. Remainder of the Heritage Site in 1996. day at leisure. Day 7 Hiroshima to Osaka (BL) Walk to Hiroshima Station for your bullet Single supplement from £695 This is a Land Only tour. Flights are available on request. Price includes: Accommodation, English speaking guides, transfers, bullet trains, baggage transfers for one piece, meals as specified (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner). Price excludes: International flights, airport taxes, local tips, personal spending and travel insurance. Visit your local travel agent, or call 020 8543 8133 59

HOKKAIDO Kushir CHERRY BLOSSOM TOUR Sapporo 13 DAY TOUR from £4,449 Aomori Cherry Blossom, Tokyo A 13 day tour that explores the very best of Japan’s Inbound culture and nature, during the popular cherry flight to Tokyo blossom season. Journey on the famous bullet train, stay in some traditional accommodation, and Kanazawa ................ 1 NIGHT TOKYO sample the local specialties including fresh sushi and Hida Beef. Witness Mt. Fuji, spend time in the 1 NIGHT Mt Fuji 2 NIGHTS cultural city of Kyoto and visit the beautiful Japanese ........ ........ Alps region. Other tour highlights include a visit to Takayama ........ a wasabi farm and a sake brewery, as well as the famous Himeji Castle. 2 NIGHTS 2 NIGHTS Hakone KYOTO HIROSHIMA ........ Nara 1 NIGHT Outbound OSAKA flight to UK 2 NIGHTS ........ Flight Drive Train Cruise Day 1 Fly to Tokyo Take a scheduled flight from your regional UK airport to Tokyo. Day 2 Arrive Tokyo Your Sample Accommodation On arrival, you will be welcomed by our representative and Tokyo: Sunshine City Prince OKINAWAtransferred to your hotel by shared shuttle bus. The rest of the day is at leisure. Kawaguchiko: Fuji Premium Resort Day 3 Tokyo Sightseeing (B) Takayama: WAT Hotel & Spa This morning, after breakfast, enjoy a sightseeing tour of Tokyo. Kanazawa: Hotel Kanazawa Visit Ueno Park, a great spot for cherry blossom, continue to Kyoto: Karasuma Hotel Kyoto Asakusa Kannon Temple and Nakamise Shopping Street. Visit Hiroshima: The Royal Park Hotel Hiroshima Riverside the Imperial Palace for a photo opportunity, then continue to Osaka: Dai-ichi Hotel Shinjuku Gyoen Park, one of the best cherry blossom viewing spots in Tokyo. The last stop of the day will be the Tokyo Tower, Accommodation will be as named above or similar for breathtaking views of the city. 60 Visit www.linkstravelandtours.co.uk for more details

SMALL GROUP TOURS Day 4 Tokyo to Hakone and Mt Fuji (BLD) will be at the stunning Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Day 11 Hiroshima to Miyajima and Depart for Hakone by coach. Enjoy a short cruise on Lake Ashi and continue to the this celebrated temple has wonderful views Osaka (B) Owakudani Ropeway for views of iconic Mt. Fuji. Spend the night in the Fuji area. of the city. This will be followed by a stop at Following breakfast, leave the hotel for a Day 5 Mt. Fuji to Takayama (B) Maruyama Park, known for its Cherry sightseeing tour of Miyajima. Visit the Start your trip to Mt. Fuji, by coach to the 5th station, about 2300 meters above sea level, Blossom. Continue to Gion, Kyoto’s most Itsukushima Shrine, where the mountains, and continue to Takayama stopping en-route to visit the Daio Wasabi Farm, to see how famous Geisha district, where visitors can sea and shrine blend in harmony, one of this famous Japanese ingredient is grown. experience authentic local life. Check into the most beautiful sites in Japan. Transfer to Day 6 Takayama (B) After breakfast, enjoy a tour of Takayama your hotel at the end of the tour. Osaka by bullet train. On Arrival, there is including visits to Takayama- Jinya, Kamisannomachi Street and the Folk Craft a photo opportunity at Osaka Castle, and Museum. The rest of the day is at leisure, perhaps visit the Matsuri no Mori, a museum Day 9 Kyoto and Nara Day tour (B) the chance to explore the Shinsaibashi area, filled with items from the famous Takayama Festival. Enjoy breakfast before leaving the hotel for before checking into your hotel. Day 7 Takayama to Shirakawago and a sightseeing tour of Kyoto and Nara. Visit Kanazawa (B) Travel to World Heritage listed Shirakawago, the Todaiji Temple, the Daibutsuden (Great Day 12 Himeji and Osaka (B) famous for the traditional Gasshou-zukuri farmhouses which are more than 250 years Buddha Hall), one of the best known temples Leave for Himeji Castle, one of the most old. Continue to Kanazawa and visit the old Samurai district before admiring the in Japan. Next is Nara Deer park where the ancient and well-known castles in Japan. Kenrokuen Garden and Kanazawa 21st Century Museum. deer roam freely. Return to Kyoto and the See the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, a suspension Day 8 Kanazawa to Kyoto (B) celebrated Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden bridge that links Kobe to Awaji Island. Visit Morning departure from Kanazawa for Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital. The first stop Pavilion). Afterwards enjoy a Kimono show at a Sake Brewery in the Nada District, before the Nishijin Textile Centre. returning to your hotel in Osaka. Day 10 Kyoto to Hiroshima (BD) Day 13 Fly to UK (B) Your main luggage will be transferred from Day at leisure until your transfer to Kansai Kyoto to Osaka. Pack a small bag for your International Airport by airport shuttle bus. stay in Hiroshima. After breakfast, visit Heian Fly to your regional airport in the UK. Jingu Shrine, the home of one of the world’s most exquisite Japanese gardens, and continue to Nijo Castle, built in the early Extend your holiday 17th century. Catch a bullet train to Hiroshima. We recommend trying a bento box for your lunch on the train (own expense). On arrival visit the Peace Memorial Park and the Genbaku-dome (The Atomic Bomb Dome) which was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. Check into your hotel. 4 days in Dubai from £350 Includes: transfers, accommodation and daily breakfast See page 144 Departures and Prices 2020 and 2021 Depart Return from £4,549 25/03/20 -- 06/04/20 from £4,449 01/04/20 -- 13/04/20 from £4,549 24/03/21 -- 05/04/21 from £4,449 31/03/21 -- 12/04/21 Single supplement from £790 Land only from £3,549 Price includes: International flights, accommodation, English speaking guides, transfers, bullet train, baggage transfers for one piece, meals as specified (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner). Price excludes: Local tips, personal spending and travel insurance. Visit your local travel agent, or call 020 8543 8133 61

JAPAN GOLDEN ROUTE Shinkyo, Nikko 10 DAY TOUR from £3,399 As its name suggests, Japan’s Golden Route visits a JAPAN range of destinations from the exciting, bustling capital Nikko city of Tokyo, the picturesque and ancient capital of Kyoto, and Japan’s most renowned city, Hiroshima. ........ Inbound Tokyo, host to the 2020 Olympic Games, offers the most modern shopping experience while still being Mt Fuji .H..a..k.o..ne TOKYO flight to Tokyo home to historic, elegant buildings and temples. Mt. Fuji, with its single snowy peak, is another impressive, 3 NIGHTS breathtaking location. On a clear day, the views are simply incredible. The cities of Kyoto, famous for its 4 NIGHTS 1 NIGHT serene, charming vistas, and Hiroshima, where you can learn about its momentous history at the Peace KYOTO Museum, provide much interest and enjoyment. Finally, the island of Miyajima will offer you a wonderful insight HIROSHIMA Outbound into Japan’s natural life. KYUSHU flight to UK Your Sample Accommodation ........ Flight Drive Tokyo: Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Train Hakone: Yumoto Fujiya Cruise Kyoto: Karasuma Kyoto Hotel Day 1 Fly to Tokyo Accommodation upgrades available Take a scheduled flight from your regional airport to Tokyo. Accommodation will be as named above or similar Day 2 Arrive Tokyo An English-speaking assistant will meet you at the customs exit at Narita or Haneda and help you to board an airport bus that will take you to your accommodation. Day 3 Tokyo Edo Morning tour (B) After breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel to join the Tokyo Edo Morning Tour, departing from the Keio Plaza Hotel. Drive past the National Diet Building, the centre of the Japanese Government and the Imperial Palace, the residence of the Emperor of Japan. Visit the Tsukiji Outer Fish Market, which contains a mixture of wholesale and retail stalls. Continue to 62 Visit www.linkstravelandtours.co.uk for more details

SMALL GROUP TOURS Tokyo Skytree Town (access to Tembo Deck Station you will be met by an English structure. There will be time for lunch at own is not included and is subject to additional speaking representative who will assist you in expense before returning to Miyajima Port charge payable locally). Visit Sensoji Temple getting to your accommodation. In the and Miyajimaguchi by ferry, and onwards and Nakamise Shopping Street. The tour will afternoon, spend time at Nara Park and to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and finish at approximately 13:15 in Asakusa, Todai-ji Temple (Great Buddha). This Museum by coach. This large-scale park was and the guide can advise about returning UNESCO World Heritage Site is the symbol established in 1949 after the Pacific War to the hotel by public transport. Afternoon is of the Nara Period and one of the world’s ended, and it’s a symbol of peace. Return to free at leisure. largest wooden structures. Visit the Kasuga Hiroshima Station, for a bullet train to Kyoto Taisha Shrine, also designated as a World Station, where drop off services to designated Day 4 Full Day Excursion to Nikko (BL) Heritage Site, and Nara Nagomikan. hotels in Kyoto are available. Today you will join the Nikko World Heritage Tour. Visit Nikko Toshogu Shrine, the final Drop-off services to hotels in Kyoto are Day 9 Kyoto (B) resting place of the founder of the Tokugawa available. Day free at leisure to explore Kyoto. Shogunate that ruled Japan for over 250 years and a part of Nikko UNESCO World Day 7 Day Tour of Kyoto (BL) Day 10 Fly to UK (B) Heritage Site. Enjoy a Japanese Style lunch, Today is filled with a day tour of Kyoto by Day at leisure until your transfer by airport followed by a trip to Lake Chuzenji, a scenic coach. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage shuttle bus to Kansai International Airport, lake located in Nikko National Park. See the Sites, Nijo Castle, completed in 1626, and and your flight back to the UK. mesmerising 97m high Kegon Falls before the Kinkaku-ji Temple, where the wooden returning to Shinjuku, where the tour ends. structure is covered in thin layers of gold Note: Please note this tour is based on Day 5 Tokyo to Mt. Fuji and Hakone (BL) and is surrounded by a beautiful pond. Next joining day tours with other travellers This morning you will leave Tokyo for Mt. is the Kyoto Imperial Palace, which used to and group sizes may vary. Fuji and Hakone. Your main suitcase will be be the residence of Japan’s Imperial Family transferred directly from Tokyo to Kyoto, and you will need to keep an overnight bag for until 1868, (or Kitano Tenmangu Shrine your night in Hakone. After breakfast, you will be picked up from your accommodation when the Imperial Palace is closed). Enjoy a and head to Mt. Fuji’s 5th Station by coach. Start the ascent up Mt. Fuji via the Fuji Japanese / Western style buffet lunch before Subaru Line, and climb 2,300 metres above sea level for breathtaking views from above moving on to the Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine. the clouds. Enjoy a Japanese-style lunch, followed by a sightseeing cruise on The impressive Sanjusangendo Temple, the Extend your holiday picturesque Lake Ashi. Travel onwards to the world’s longest wooden structure, housing Mt. Komagatake Ropeway, and discover the spiritual Hakone Shrine Mototsumiya 1,001 life-size statues of Buddhist Kannon (original shrine), before ending the day at your accommodation in Hakone. deities dating back to the 13th century is Day 6 Hakone to Kyoto (B) next, followed by your final stop, and a Today transfer to Odawara Station for your bullet train to Kyoto Station. (Travel time superb view of Kyoto from the Kiyomizu-dera appox. two hours). Upon arrival at Kyoto Temple, a World Heritage Site. Day 8 Day Tour to Hiroshima (B) 5 days in Hokkaido from £525 Today you will join a full day tour to 4 days in Okinawa from £868 Hiroshima by bullet train. Upon arrival walk Includes: transfers, accommodation and to the meeting point at Granvia Hiroshima where you will be transferred to daily breakfast Miyajimaguchi. From here go to Miyajima Port, and take the ferry to Miyajima to visit See pages 83 - 86 the Itsukushima Shrine, a World Heritage Site. Established in the 6th century it is famous for its beautiful Shinden-zukuri style Departures and Prices 2020 and 2021 Price from £3,399 Single Supplement from £575 Land only from £2,599 Departures vary (usually 2-3 times a week) Price includes: International flights, accommodation, English speaking guides, transfers, transportation, baggage transfers for one piece, meals as specified (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner). Price excludes: Local tips, personal spending and travel insurance. Visit your local travel agent, or call 020 8543 8133 63

Torii Gate, Miyajima, Japan Taekwondo, Korea HOKKAIDO Kushiro Sapporo Aomori ESSENTIAL JAPAN & SOUTH KOREA 12 DAY TOUR from £4,399 Outbound flight to UK Inbound 3 NIGHTS flight to Tokyo SEOUL Mt Fuji TOKYO ................ ........ Flight to Seoul ........ 2 NIGHTS 2 NIGHTS ........ Hakone KYOTO 1 NIGHT HIROSHIMA OSAKA 1 NIGHT 1 NIGHT ........ Flight Drive Train Cruise The Essential Japan and South Korea tour is Day 1 Fly to Tokyo perfect for the first time traveller to these two Take a scheduled flight from your regional airport to Tokyo. beguiling countries. Enjoy spending time in the Day 2 Arrive Tokyo vibrant capital of Japan, Tokyo. Take a journey to Arrive at Tokyo’s Narita or Haneda International airport where you the 5th station on Mt. Fuji, marvel at Japan’s will be welcomed by our representative and transferred to your accommodation. The rest of the day is at leisure. highest mountain with its single, volcanic snowy Day 3 Tokyo City Tour (B) pOeKIaNkAW. AThe cultural city of Kyoto is where you will Start the day with a visit to Hamarikyu Garden, filled with cherry discover beautiful gardens, ancient temples and blossom in spring. Enjoy a cruise on the Sumida River for a unique traditional townhouses. Learn about Hiroshima, view of the city from the water. Afterwards, experience a traditional its past and present, and visit Itsukushima Shrine, Japanese tea ceremony. Admire Sensoji Temple and stroll along the popular Nakamise Street, said to be one of the oldest shopping said to be one of the three most beautiful sights in streets in Japan. Then stroll around Shinjuku, a lively shopping and entertainment area. End the day with a visit to the observation deck Japan. Explore delicious Japanese cuisine in Osaka, at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, for stunning views before flying to Seoul, the fascinating capital of of the city. South Korea, an intriguing combination of ancient Day 4 Tokyo to Mt. Fuji and Hakone (BLD) and modern. Your main luggage will be transferred from Tokyo to Kyoto. Pack a small bag for your stay at Mt. Fuji. Admire the rural scenes as you Your Sample Accommodation drive towards Mt. Fuji and Hakone, and relax on a pleasure boat cruise across tranquil Lake Ashi, marvelling at the picturesque and Tokyo: Sunshine City Prince serene beauty of this natural lake. Take the Owakudani Ropeway, Mount Fuji: Resorpia Atami an aerial lift with spectacular views of Mt. Fuji and Ashinoko Lake. Kyoto: Karasuma Kyoto Hotel Savour lunch at a local restaurant before ascending to Mt. Fuji’s 5th Hiroshima: The Royal Park Hotel Hiroshima Riverside station about 2,300 metres above sea level. Osaka: Hotel Elsereine Osaka Seoul: T Mark Grand Day 5 Mt. Fuji to Kyoto and Nara (B) Accommodation will be as named above or similar After breakfast, your transfer will take you to the station for your bullet train to Kyoto. Upon arrival, our guide will meet and take you to Nara to visit the Todaiji (Great Buddha) Temple, picturesque 64 Visit www.linkstravelandtours.co.uk for more details

SMALL GROUP TOURS Nara Park, home to hundreds of deer, and the Kasuga Taisha shrine. Day 6 Kyoto City Tour (B) hotel to check in. Places of interest on today’s city tour include Nijo Castle which was built in 1603 and the beautiful Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion), a zen temple where the top floors are covered in gold leaf. Admire the Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, home to thousands of torii gates, and the Sanjusangendo Temple, a Buddhist temple filled with 1001 statues of Kannon, the Goddess of mercy. Finally, marvel at the panoramic views from the Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Your tour ends in the atmospheric Gion district, where you can explore and may perhaps glimpse a Geisha on her way to her evening appointments. Day 7 Kyoto to Hiroshima (BD) Day 10 Seoul City Tour (B) Extend your holiday Your main luggage will be transferred from Join a morning city tour of this bustling city. Kyoto to Osaka, so please pack a small bag Pass by the Blue House, explore Extend your holiday in South Korea by for your stay in Hiroshima. After breakfast, Gyeongbokgung Palace and see the spending more time in Seoul including a visit take the bullet train to Hiroshima, where you changing of the Royal Guard ceremony. Visit to the Korean Folk Village. Travel south to the will be met and taken to Miyajima, home of the National Folk Museum and the Insadong historical city of Gyeongju and Busan, a large the Itsukushima Shrine. The glorious vista shopping district. Afternoon is at leisure. port city known for its beaches, temples and created by the mountains, sea and shrine blending in harmony, makes this one of the Day 11 DMZ Tour (B) mountain. most beautiful in the country.Upon return Take a fascinating morning tour to the DMZ, Contact us for more details to Hiroshima, visit the Peace Memorial Park one of the most unusual tourist destinations and Genbaku-dome (The Atomic Bomb in the world. This visit is a real eye-opening Departures and Prices Dome), designated a UNESCO World experience and will leave you with a 2020 and 2021 Heritage Site in 1996. dramatic sense of the tremendous tragedy of separated families, the division of the Depart Return Day 8 Hiroshima to Osaka (B) peninsula and the hopes for reunification. 05/04/20 -- 16/04/20 from £4,599 Walk to the station for your bullet train to The rest of the day is at leisure. 19/04/20 -- 30/04/20 from £4,499 Osaka, where our guide will meet you and 10/05/20 -- 21/05/20 from £4,399 take you to explore Osaka Castle. The tour Day 12 Fly to UK (B) 11/10/20 -- 22/10/20 from £4,599 ends in the Dotonbori District, known for its Take a shared transfer to the airport for your 08/11/20 -- 19/11/20 from £4,599 restaurants and tasty street food. flight to the UK. 11/04/21 -- 22/04/21 from £4,599 09/05/21 -- 20/05/21 from £4,599 Day 9 Fly to Seoul (B) Note: Please note that the tours in Seoul Check in at Kansai International Airport for are based on seat in coach tours, joining Single supplement from £845 your flight to Seoul, where you will be met with travellers from other companies. Land only from £3,449 and shown to the shared transfer to your Price includes: International flights, accommodation, English speaking guides, transfers, bullet train, baggage transfers for one piece, meals as specified (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner). Price excludes: Local tips, personal spending and travel insurance. Visit your local travel agent, or call 020 8543 8133 65

Kinkakuji Temple, Kyoto Great Wall of China JAPAN AND CHINA Tokyo Tower 15 DAY TOUR from £3,898 Inbound JAPAN ight to Tokyo 3 NIGHTS BEIJING HUANG HE Inbound Mt Fuji ........ TOKYO (YELLOW ight 2 NIGHTS RIVER) to Beijing 2 NIGHTS Hakone CHINA 3 NIGHTS KYOTO 1 NIGHT 2 NIGHTS SHANGHAI XIAN RIVER YANGTZE RIVER ........ Flight YANGTZE Drive Train Outbound Cruise ight to UK CRIUISE TO LI RIVER YANGSHUO An incredible twin-centre tour that takes you from Day 1 Fly to Tokyo (B) the breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji to the incredible Take your scheduled flight from the UK to Tokyo. Great Wall of China. Experience the cultures and Day 2 Arrive Tokyo (B) traditions of two nations that boast a fascinating Upon arrival you will be met and transferred by shuttle bus to your history. Start the tour in Japan’s capital, Tokyo and accommodation. The rest of the day is at leisure. enjoy five days exploring the essential attractions of Day 3 Tokyo Morning Tour (B) Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto and Nara. Visit the illustrious Today, you will be picked up from your hotel to join Tokyo Morning capital of China, Beijing, and the vibrant city of Tour. Visit Meiji Shrine, the Imperial Palace Plaza and Double Xian, giving you a wonderful taste of China’s most Bridge, and drive through Asakusa shopping district. Tour ends at historic attractions. This 15 day tour provides a Tokyo Station approx. 1 pm. The tour guide will inform you how to go back to your hotel. The rest of the day is free at leisure. wonderful insight into the culture and history of both Day 4 Tokyo to Mt. Fuji and Hakone (BL) Japan and China. Please leave your main suitcase with the porter desk by 7:30 am, but keep an overnight bag with you for the night in Hakone. After Your Sample Accommodation breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel to join the day tour to Mt. Fuji and Hakone. Visit Mt. Fuji’s 5th station in the morning and take the Hakone Ropeway, followed by a cruise on Lake Ashi. After the tour you will be transferred to your accommodation in Hakone by taxi. Tokyo: Shiba Park Hotel Day 5 Hakone to Kyoto and Nara Afternoon Walking Tour (B) Hakone: Hakone Hotel After breakfast, make your way to the station by private car for your Kyoto: New Miyako Hotel bullet train to Kyoto where, on arrival, an English speaking guide Beijing: Guangxi Hotel will meet you and transfer you to your accommodation. In the Xian: Grand Dynasty Culture Hotel afternoon, discover Nara on a guided tour to the Todaiji Temple Shanghai: Greenland Jiulong Hotel with Great Buddha, Nara Park, home to over 1,200 wild shika deer, which you can feed with a special snack, Shika-senbei, sold in Accommodation upgrades available in Japan the park and the Kofuku-ji Temple, before returning to Kyoto. Accommodation will be as named above or similar 66 Visit www.linkstravelandtours.co.uk for more details

Day 6 Kyoto Full Day Tour (BL) Day 11 Terracotta Warriors (BLD) SMALL GROUP TOURS Extend your holiday Today join a full day tour of Kyoto. Visit the Your guide will escort you to the Terracotta 4 days in Chengdu from £498 impressive Kiyomizu-dera Temple, with its Warriors, an amazing collection of 10,000 5 days in Sanya from £585 panoramic view of Kyoto. Continue to the life size statues of the Chinese army made Includes: transfers, accommodation and daily breakfast Sanjusangendo Temple, a Buddhist temple over 2,000 years ago. This evening, sample See pages 42-43 for details filled with 1001 statues of Kannon, the a delicious dumpling dinner whilst being Departures and Prices Goddess of mercy and the intriguing Fushimi entertained by a Tang Dynasty Show. 14/03/20 – 29/05/21 Inari Shrine with its brightly coloured Torii Depart Return 14/03 28/03/20 from £4,198 gates. This will be followed by Arashiyama, Day 12 Xian City Tour and to 28/03 11/04/20 from £4,198 04/04 18/04/20 from £4,198 famous for its bamboo grove, and the Shanghai (BL) 02/05 16/05/20 from £4,098 09/05 23/05/20 from £4,098 Tenryu-ji Temple, a Zen temple with a Visit the Shaanxi Museum, home to over 30/05 13/06/20 from £3,898 18/07 01/08/20 from £4,398 beautifully landscaped garden. Walk through a quarter of a million artefacts on display, 01/08 15/08/20 from £4,398 29/08 12/09/20 from £4,598 the scenic Sagano Bamboo Grove, where including treasures from many periods of 05/09 19/09/20 from £4,498 12/09 26/09/20 from £4,498 the bamboo towers above you on both sides China’s history. At the next destination, the 03/10 17/10/20 from £4,498 10/10 24/10/20 from £4,498 and the last stop of the day is the beautiful Small Wild Goose Pagoda, you will discover 17/10 31/10/20 from £4,498 13/03 27/03/21 from £4,398 Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion), where China’s unique architectural style, and at 27/03 10/04/21 from £4,498 03/04 17/04/21 from £4,598 the top two floors are completely covered in your last stop, the Muslim Quarter, you will 01/05 15/05/21 from £4,398 08/05 22/05/21 from £4,398 gold leaf. see local life in the community. Finally, you 29/05 12/06/21 from £4,398 will be transferred to the airport for your flight Single supplement from £998 Land only from £3,098 Day 7 Fly to Beijing (BD) to Shanghai. Price includes: Transfer to Kansai Airport by shuttle bus for International and domestic flights in economy class, bullet train, 3★ and 4★ your flight to Beijing. Upon arrival, you will Day 13 Shanghai City Tour (BLD) accommodation, transfers, English speaking guides, meals as specified (B=Breakfast, be met by your guide and transferred to your The first attraction of the day will be the Yu L=Lunch, D=Dinner), entrance fees to the sites listed and airport taxes. hotel for a three night stay. In the afternoon Yuan Gardens, first designed in 1559 during Price excludes: there will be time to relax or take a walk in the Ming Dynasty by Pan Yunduan. The Yu Local tips in China: RMB390 (approx £45) per person, personal spending, China visa and the surrounding area. Your guide will be Yuan Gardens occupies an area of 5 acres travel insurance. pleased to advise you on what you can do. and is home to beautiful pavilions, walkways, In the early evening, enjoy dinner with your rockeries, streams, ponds, courtyards and fellow group members. flowers. Continue to the Jade Buddha Temple, which was built to house two large, Day 8 Beijing City Tour (BLD) intricate sculptures of Buddha. Afterwards This morning, visit the Temple of Heaven, you will spend time at the Shanghai Museum, where the Ming and Qing emperors followed by time at the Bund, the main worshipped the God of heaven, and you waterfront attraction of this modern should see the tradition of Tai Chi practiced metropolis. Later, from the top of the in the courtyard. This will be followed by a Shanghai world financial centre, you can stroll through Tiananmen Square, the largest enjoy a breathtaking bird’s eye view of the square in the world, and the Forbidden City whole city. which served as the grand imperial palace for centuries. Your final stop of the day will Day 14 Zhujiajiao (BL) be at the Hutongs, for an insight into the Today will start with a visit to Zhujiajiao, an everyday life of traditional Beijing people. ancient water town with a 1,700 year history, known as the Pearl Stream. You Day 9 Great Wall (BLD) should see the Ming and Qing Dynasty Your day starts with a visit to the Great bridges, two ancient and historic buildings, Wall at Mutianyu, a less-crowded post with and the Ma family Garden before heading breathtaking views. Mutianyu was built in back to Shanghai for an afternoon at leisure the mid-6th century and its rich history can for last minute shopping. be observed in its well-preserved structure. This will be followed by an opportunity for Day 15 Fly to UK (B) photographs at the Birds Nest Stadium and Transfer to the airport for your flight back to Water Cube, venues for the memorable the UK. 2008 Olympics and 2015 World Championships. In the evening, enjoy a flavoursome Peking Duck Dinner, a local delicacy and a culinary must! Day 10 Beijing to Xian (B) Note: The Japan section of your tour is In the morning take a trip to the Summer based on joining day tours with other Palace, a magnificent collection of lakes, travellers and group sizes may vary. The gardens, palaces in picturesque China section of your tour will be based surroundings. Afterwards, relax on a boat on a dedicated Links Travel tour and you ride on the beautiful Kunming Lake, before will be travelling with the same people catching a bullet train to Xian. throughout China. Visit your local travel agent, or call 020 8543 8133 67

JAPAN SEMI-ESCORTED TOURS Our semi-escorted tours are ideal for the traveller who is looking to see Japan at their own pace. They allow you the freedom to choose what to see, when, and how long to spend in each location. They provide total independence along with support and advice from the experts at Links Travel & Tours, plus you will still have the services of guides and assistants on certain days for arrival transfers and city tours. A complete travel pack with maps, tourist information and detailed itinerary is provided, allowing you to get the very most out of your semi-escorted tour. You will also be given an emergency local contact number to offer additional support. To provide you with ideas we have listed a selection of semi-escorted tours to highlight just a small selection of the options available to you. If you can’t find a tour that fits your requirements let us tailor-make your entire holiday designed around your requirements. Equipped with our specialist knowledge and first-hand experience of Japan, we can create the perfect personal, independent itinerary for you. MEET AND GREET SERVICE WITH ENGLISH a guide to meet you on arrival at a station and SPEAKING GUIDES to take you to the hotel. Please call us for further You can include an English speaking guide to details about this service. meet you at your location. For example, they can meet you at your hotel reception and take you to the train station to board the train for your journey to your next destination. You can also arrange for 68 Visit www.linkstravelandtours.co.uk for more details

DAY TOURS WITH SEMI – ESCORTED TOURS ENGLISH SPEAKING GUIDES To get the most from the destinations you are INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS staying in, you can include day tours with an Some of our tour rates include international flights. English speaking guide. These day tours can be Where the prices are shown separately, please call pre-booked either as part of a group or a private for latest availability, price and most suitable flight tour. Please visit our Cultural Experiences (pages schedule from your preferred regional airport. 88 - 91) to see a small selection of these pre-bookable tours. On all Semi-Escorted Tours LINKS TRAVEL & TOURS we are happy to include an English speaking guide INFORMATION PACK as and when required. Please call for details. You will receive a detailed travel pack which will enable you to get the very most out of your SELF-DRIVE HOLIDAYS semi-escorted tour. This will include a detailed Renting a car in Japan is a wonderful way to see itinerary, directions to all accommodations, maps this beautiful country at your own pace, especially that relate to your itinerary, tourist information, as they drive on the left! Travel is at your own travel tips including getting the most from each pace, allowing you to explore the more rural parts destination, local information and a Japan Rail of Japan that are not accessible by train. We work Pass with information of how to activate it on closely with the leading car rental companies in arrival. You will also be provided with an Japan, providing a wide selection of modern emergency local contact number to offer vehicles with built in English speaking GPS additional support if required. navigation systems. WIFI RENTAL SERVICE IN JAPAN ACCOMMODATION You may wish to take advantage of a pocket WiFi Each tour featured in the brochure is based on rental service to stay connected during your time in carefully selected standard accommodation. These Japan. This will enable you to use Google Maps to offer both comfort and value. Based on your help you to navigate your way around. The devices personal preferences, you can upgrade to superior can be collected and dropped off at the airport and deluxe accommodation. A holiday to Japan is upon arrival and departure and cost from as little not complete without the unique experience of an as £8 per day. See page 87 for further details. overnight stay in a traditional Japanese accommodation (ryokan / Minshuku / Shokubo LUGGAGE TRANSFER SERVICES see pages 92 - 95) along with the opportunity to For your ease and convenience, luggage transfer experience a Japanese hot spring. services can be arranged throughout Japan between main cities and places of interest. Please ask for further details and we will be happy to advise. Visit your local travel agent, or call 020 8543 8133 69

HOKKAIDO Kushiro Sapporo CLASSIC JAPAN Aomori 9 DAY TOUR from £2,865 Meiji Shrine, Tokyo Discover the culture and landscape of this amazing Inbound country, on our nine day Classic Japan tour. Visit flight to Tokyo the cities of Tokyo and Kyoto as well as iconic Mt Fuji. Cruise on Lake Ashi and enjoy an overnight ........ .... TOKYO stay at a traditional hot springs in Hakone. 3 NIGHTS ........Mt Fuji 3 NIGHTS 1 NIGHTS KYOTO........Hakone HIROSHIMA 1 NIGHT Nara Yamaguchi Outbound ........ Flight Nagasaki flight to UK Drive Train KYUSHU Cruise Day 1 Fly to Tokyo Take a scheduled flight from your regional airport to Tokyo. Your Sample AccommodatiOoKnINAWA Day 2 Arrive Tokyo On arrival in Tokyo, you will be welcomed by our representative Tokyo: Shiba Park Hotel who will organise the airport bus transfer to your Hakone: Hakone Hotel accommodation. The rest of the day is free at leisure. Kyoto: New Miyako Hotel Day 3 Tokyo (B) Accommodation upgrades available Day at leisure with optional tours available to pre-book. Japan’s Accommodation will be as named above or similar bustling capital mixes modern with traditional, from neon-lit skyscrapers, to picturesque gardens and historic temples. 70 Visit www.linkstravelandtours.co.uk for more details

SEMI – ESCORTED TOURS Day 4 Tokyo Morning Tour (B) Today, you will be collected from your hotel to join a morning tour of Tokyo. Visit the Meiji Shrine and Imperial Palace East Garden (or Imperial Palace Plaza and Double Bridge, Monday, Friday or when the garden is closed), and drive through Asakusa shopping district. The rest of the day is free at leisure. Day 5 Tokyo to Mt. Fuji and Hakone (BL) intriguing Fushimi Inari Shrine with its Day 9 Fly to UK (B) Your main suitcase will be transferred brightly coloured Torii gates. The tour Day at leisure until your transfer to the directly from Tokyo to Kyoto. Keep an continues to Arashiyama, famous for its airport by shuttle bus for your flight to your overnight bag with you for the night in bamboo grove, and the Tenryu-ji Temple regional UK airport. Hakone. After breakfast, join a day tour to with its beautiful Zen garden. Next, the tour Mt. Fuji and Hakone. Visit Mt. Fuji’s 5th continues with a stroll through the scenic Extend your holiday station, and after lunch continue to Sagano Bamboo Grove, and the beautiful Owakudani Boiling Valley using the Hakone Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion). 4 days in Dubai from £350 Ropeway, followed by a cruise on Lake Ashi. 5 days in Okinawa from £868 Take a taxi transfer to your accommodation Day 8 Kyoto (B) Includes: transfers, accommodation and in Hakone. Day at leisure. Home to 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, this culturally rich city has daily breakfast Day 6 Hakone to Kyoto and Nara many interesting places to discover including See pages 86, 141 Walking Tour (B) museums, galleries, shrines and temples. Following breakfast, take a private car to the Plus there is an exciting food culture with a station for your bullet train to Kyoto. On variety of amazing dishes including Sushi, arrival, you will be met by an English Kaiseki-ryori, tempura and noodles. Make speaking assistant, who will transfer you to sure to visit the Gion district, where you may your hotel. After checking in, join the Nara come across a Geisha and Maiko wearing Afternoon Walking Tour, which includes the traditional kimono. impressive Todaiji Temple with Great Buddha, Nara Park, home to over 1,200 wild shika deer and the remarkable Kofuku-ji Temple, before returning to Kyoto. Day 7 Kyoto Full Day Tour (BL) The Kyoto Full Day Tour starts after breakfast, at the stunning Kiyomizu-dera Temple, with its panoramic view of Kyoto. Continue to the Buddhist Sanjusangendo Temple, filled with 1001 statues of Kannon, the Goddess of mercy, followed by the Departures and Prices 2020 and 2021 Departures are daily Price from £2,865 per person Land only from £2,065 Price includes: International flights, accommodation, English speaking guides, transfers, bullet train, baggage transfers for one piece, meals as specified (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner) Visit your local travel agent, or call 020 8543 8133 71

HOKKAIDO Kushiro Sapporo SELF – DRIVE HOLIDAYS Aomori 15 DAY TOUR from £3,499 Scenic drive in Japan Hiring a car to get around Japan is a fantastic way M1aNtsIuGmHoTto Inbound to explore the country, especially as they drive on the flight to Tokyo left. All major road signs are in English, the well-kept ........ roads are comfortable and easy to drive on, and 2 NIGHTS 1 NIGHT ...M..t.F..u.ji.H..akone TOKYO when refueling your car, you will receive first class service at petrol stations. By taking to the road, you KYOTO Na.g.o..y.a... 3 NIGHTS have the freedom to explore the country at your own pace, seeing the diverse scenery and witnessing Hamamatsu 1 NIGHT Outbound local life you wouldn’t encounter by other modes of flight to UK transport. We have put together this sample self-drive 1 NIGHT itinerary to give you an idea of one of the many OSAKA routes available. Please contact us now for your own 2 NIGHTS self-drive holiday of Japan, tailored to suit your specific requirements. Hongu ........ Flight ShirahamaYuno1mNinIeGOHTnsen Drive Train 1 NIGHT Cruise Your Sample Accommodation Day 1 Fly to Tokyo Take a scheduled flight from your regional airport to Tokyo. Tokyo: Shiba Park Hotel Hakone: Nanpuso Day 2 Arrive Tokyo Hamamatsu: Hotel Concorde Arrive at Tokyo International Airport, where you will be met and Nagoya: Nagoya Ekimae Montblanc HMoitdeOol rKiIyNaAWA assisted to board an airport bus for the transfer to your hotel. Yunomine Onsen: Sansuikan Kawayu Shirahama: Kisyu Shirahama Onsen Musashi Ryokan Day 3 Tokyo (B) Osaka: Osaka Castle Hotel Day at leisure to explore Tokyo. Kyoto: New Miyako Hotel Matsumoto: Matsumoto Tokyu REI Hotel Day 4 Tokyo to Hakone (BD) Make your way to the car rental office to pick up your hire car. Accommodation upgrades available From there, travel to the Mt. Fuji area using the expressways, Accommodation will be as named above or similar which should take approx. 2 ½ hours. Discover Mt. Fuji and the 72 Visit www.linkstravelandtours.co.uk for more details

SELF – DRIVE HOLIDAYS surrounding area, such as Kawaguchi Lake, and in the evening, continue to Hakone for a night at a ryokan, where your dinner will be served. Day 5 Hakone to Hamamatsu (B) From Hakone, drive to Hamamatsu, approx. 2 ½ hours, and marvel at the Hamana Lake and Nakatajima Sakyu, sand dunes. Day 6 Hamamatsu to Nagoya (B) Your next destination is Nagoya and a day there at your leisure. There are many sites to see, for instance Nagoya Castle, the aquarium, Tokugawa Art Museum, Osu Kannon Temple and Korankei Valley. Stay in Nagoya for one night. Day 7 Nagoya, Hongu and Yunomine its modern architecture, boisterous nightlife You can travel to Nara or even Arashiyama Onsen (BD) and hearty street food. In the heart of the by car or public transport. After a night in Nagoya, travel to Hongu to city is the perfectly restored, and impressive, walk some of the Kumano Kodo and visit Osaka-jo Castle. Osaka’s north gate, Day 13 Kyoto to Matsumoto (B) the Hongu Taisha, Kumano Nachi Taisha Umeda, has a gigantic stretch of From Kyoto, travel to Matsumoto by car, and Seigantoji. Once you are done, underground mall that houses many which takes approximately 4 ½ hours. Once continue onto Yunomine onsen for an restaurants, fashion and general stores. It is you arrive, check into your accommodation overnight stay in a ryokan. also widely known as the Nation’s Kitchen, to stay for a night. offering an incredible array of tasty Day 8 Yunomine Onsen to Japanese cuisine. Day 14 Matsumoto to Tokyo (B) Shirahama (BD) Leave your accommodation in the afternoon The next day sees you make your way to Day 10 Osaka (B) and travel back to Tokyo. Return your car Shirahama. Once you have arrived, check Explore Osaka at your leisure, visiting places to the Car Hire Office and check into your into your accommodation for a night, and such as the Sky Observatory, Osaka Castle, accommodation for one night. spend the rest of the day discovering the Namba area, Dotonbori and more. Shirahama and its onsens. Maybe visit Mt. Koya to see the cemetery Day 15 Fly to UK (B) and temples. Day at leisure until your shuttle bus to the Day 9 Shirahama to Osaka (B) airport and your flight back to the UK. From Shirahama, travel to Osaka using the Day 11 Osaka to Kyoto (B) expressways, and check into your hotel for Travel from Osaka to Kyoto in the Note: Self-drive itineraries are also a two night stay. Osaka, is a large port city afternoon, which should take under an hour. available for the islands of Hokkaido and commercial powerhouse, is known for Arrive at your accommodation and check in and Kyushu, where exploring by car is for two nights. the best way to cover the vast distances. Please contact us for more details. Day 12 Kyoto (B) Explore Kyoto at your leisure. Visit Departures and Prices places such as Ryoanji, Fushimi Inari shrine, 2020 and 2021 Kinkakuji Temple, Nijo Castle and more. Departures are daily Prices from £3,499 Land only from £2,699 Prices based on minimum of two travelling Price includes: International flights, accommodation, car hire, transfers, meals as specified (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner). Price excludes: Local tips, Local parking, IDP, personal spending and travel insurance. Visit your local travel agent, or call 020 8543 8133 73

JAPAN FAMILY TOUR HOKKAIDO Kushiro 15 DAY TOUR from £3,299 Sapporo Lake Ashi, Hakone Aomori Explore the history and culture of this amazing Kanazawa Inbound country, with fun-filled excursions for all the family. 2 NIGHTS flight to Tokyo Discover ancient castles and tranquil shrines, marvel at Mt. Fuji, perhaps feed the deer in Nara 3 NIGHTS Mt Fuji TOKYO Park, cruise Lake Ashi on a Pirate Boat, and tread in KYOTO 4 NIGHTS the footsteps of ancients at Osaka Castle. Let your imagination run wild in the fantasy worlds and 2 NIGHTS ........ OSAKA exhilarating rides of Disneyland and Universal HIROSHIMA ........2 NIGHTS Studios! This is a semi-escorted tour, based on travelling independently and joining day tours where Kansai Nara specified. Japan Rail Passes are included so you can Airport travel freely on applicable Japan Rail services. Outbound flight to UK ........ Flight Drive Train Cruise Day 1 Fly to Tokyo Depart the UK on your scheduled flight to Tokyo. Flights from regOKioINnAaWlAairports can be arranged on request. Your Sample Accommodation Day 2 Arrive Tokyo Tokyo: Shiba Park Upon arrival, an English speaking assistant will meet and assist Kanazawa: Kanazawa New Grand you in exchanging your Japan Rail Passes, so you can take the Kyoto: New Miyako train to your hotel. Once there, check-in and the rest of the day Hiroshima: Tokyu REI is at leisure to relax, or explore the local area. Osaka: Granvia Day 3 Tokyo Half Day Tour (B) Accommodation upgrades available This morning, after breakfast, you will join a Tokyo Morning Accommodation will be as named above or similar Tour. Marvel at the city panorama from the main observation platform at the Tokyo Tower, a 332.9m tall communications and observation tower. Visit the Meiji Shrine, a Shinto shrine located in Shibuya and drive past the Akasaka Guest House and 74 Visit www.linkstravelandtours.co.uk for more details

SEMI - ESCORTED TOURS the National Diet Building. Continue to the Imperial Palace East Garden (or Imperial Palace Plaza and Double Bridge, Monday, Friday and when the garden is closed) and drive through the Ginza shopping district, where the tour ends. In the afternoon, you could join an optional, and intriguing, Kembu Samurai experience. Day 4 Mt. Fuji and Hakone (B) Daibutsuden Hall. Continue to Nara Park, Day 13 Hiroshima to Osaka (B) Travel to Mt. Fuji and Hakone to marvel at where over 1,200 wild shika deer freely From Hiroshima take a bullet train to Osaka, one of the most iconic sights of Japan. Use roam. Visitors can feed them Shika-senbei, and in the afternoon join a half-day tour of your Hakone Pass to visit some of the main a special snack for the deer sold in the park Osaka. Visit Osaka’s famous sightseeing attractions including the Hakone Sky grounds. Visit the Kofuku-ji Temple, which spots and learn about the city’s history. Gondola, and enjoy a Pirate Boat cruise on was transferred from Kyoto in AD710 and Explore Osaka Castle, built in 1583 and Lake Ashi. Return to Tokyo by bullet train. has a five-story pagoda, the second highest one of the most important castles in Japan, in Japan, before returning to Kyoto, for the and enjoy the scenery of the city, from the Day 5 Tokyo Disneyland or Disney Sea (B) rest of your day at leisure. boat the Aqua Liner, also known as “Aqua Catch a train from Shinagawa to Maihama Metropolis Osaka” on an hour long cruise. Station and make your way to Tokyo Day 10 Kyoto (B) Disneyland or Disney Sea. Spend a day at Day at leisure. You may wish to spend the Day 14 Universal Studios Japan (B) the park enjoying the rides, attractions, morning enjoying a cultural experience at a Today, experience a trip to Universal Studios entertainment, shops and parades. At the unique Machiya Townhouse, where a guide for a fun-filled day enjoying all the rides, end of the day return to your hotel. will explain about the traditions and history attractions and entertainment that this theme of the house and its antique furniture. You park has to offer. Take the short train Day 6 Tokyo to Kanazawa (B) will have the opportunity to learn more about journey between Osaka Station and Travel to the station for your Limited Express the traditional Japanese Kimono. Select your Universal City. train to Kanazawa, where you should make favourite from one of many choices of finest your own way to the accommodation. The silk kimonos and learn the secrets of how to Day 15 Fly to UK (B) rest of the day is at leisure to relax or wear and move in a kimono with grace and From Osaka Station, take the train to Kansai explore the neighbourhood. beauty. (Additional cost for this experience Airport for your flight to the UK. £70 per person, must be pre-booked). Day 7 Day Trip to Shirakawago (B) Departures and Prices Take a Nohi Bus to Shirakawago (travel time Day 11 Kyoto to Hiroshima (B) 2020 and 2021 approx 75 mins), and explore this UNESCO Catch a Bullet Train to Hiroshima, and upon World Heritage Site, famous for the 250 arrival make your own way to your Departures are daily year old, traditional gasshou-zukuri accommodation. The rest of the day is at farmhouses. Return to Kanazawa by bus. leisure, with an opportunity to explore Price from Adult £3,299, Hiroshima independently. Perhaps visit the Child £2,599 Day 8 Kanazawa to Kyoto, Afternoon Peace Memorial Park and the Tour (B) Genbaku-Dome (The Atomic Bomb Dome), (based on 2 adults and 2 children under 11 years After breakfast, go to the station for your the symbol of Hiroshima, a city that of age travelling in low Season) Limited Express train to Kyoto, and make advocates world Peace. It was designated For alternative pricing options, please ask your way to your accommodation. This a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. for details. afternoon, join the Kyoto Afternoon Tour, to While all structures were decimated by the the Heian Jingu Shrine, Sanjusangendo Hall atomic bomb explosion, only this building Land only from Adult £2,499, and the impressive Kiyomizudera Temple miraculously remained standing! Perhaps Child £1,999 with fantastic views of Kyoto. take the ferry across to Miyajima Island and see the Itsukushima Shrine, the great Torii Price includes: Day 9 Nara Half Day Tour (B) gate that stands in the sea. International flights, accommodation, English This morning starts with a walking tour of speaking guides, transfers, 14 Day Japan Rail Nara. Take the train to Nara, the imperial Day 12 Hiroshima (B) Pass (Ordinary class), Disneyland or Disney capital of Japan in the 8th century, and Day at leisure. For car enthusiasts, Sea and Universal Studios Pass, meals as visit the Todaiji Temple where an enormous maybe visit the fascinating Mazda Museum, specified (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, bronze Buddha image is exhibited in the a short train journey from Hiroshima Station. D=Dinner). Alternatively, for a truely Zen experience you could explore the Shinsyo Temple. Price excludes: Local tips, personal spending and travel insurance. Visit your local travel agent, or call 020 8543 8133 75

JAPAN HERITAGE HOKKAIDO Kushiro 15 DAY TOUR from £4,099 Sapporo Geisha prayinAgom,ori Kyoto Explore Japan’s classic sights, starting in the exciting ........KanazawaShirakawago Inbound flight capital city of Tokyo, famous for its fresh sushi, and 1 NIGHT to Tokyo journey on the famous bullet train through scenic 1 NIGHT central Japan. Visit Takayama, a mountainside town, ........ TOKYO filled with authentic markets, culture and traditional Takayama 3 NIGHTS Japanese wooden houses. Enjoy time at the ........ 1 NIGHT Mt Fuji UNESCO World Heritage Site of Shirakawago, and see classic landscape designs, gardens, castle and KYOTO art museums in Kanazawa. Explore the Gion district in Kyoto, spend time in the historic city of Hiroshima, 3 NIGHTS and finish your tour in the vibrant city of Osaka. 2 NIGHTS OSAKA 1 NIGHT HIROSHIMA Mt.Koya Kansai 1 NIGHT Airport Outbound ........ Flight flight to UK Drive Train Cruise Your Sample Accommodation Day 1 Fly to Tokyo Take a scheduled flight from your regional airport to Tokyo. Tokyo: Shiba Park Hotel Takayama: Hida Hotel Plaza OKINAWA Shirakawago: Koemon Kanazawa: Hotel Kanazawa Day 2 Arrive Tokyo Kyoto: New Miyako Arrive at Narita or Haneda Airport, where you will be met by Mt. Koya: Fukuchiin your guide and taken to the shuttle bus for your transfer. Hiroshima: Hotel New Hiroden Osaka: Hotel Elsereine Osaka Day 3 Tokyo Morning City Tour (B) Today, you will be picked up from your accommodation to join Accommodation upgrades available a Tokyo Morning City Tour, with an English speaking guide. Visit Accommodation will be as named above or similar the Meiji Shrine, a famous Shinto shrine nestled in a peaceful area in Shibuya. Continue to the Imperial Palace East Garden and Asakusa. Afternoon is at leisure. 76 Visit www.linkstravelandtours.co.uk for more details

SEMI - ESCORTED TOURS Day 4 Mt. Fuji and Hakone (BL) After breakfast, you will be picked up from your accommodation to join a Mt. Fuji and Hakone Day tour by coach. The tour includes a trip to Mt. Fuji’s 5th station, a Japanese style lunch, Hakone Ropeway and a cruise across tranquil Lake Ashi. Arrive back to Tokyo in the evening. Day 5 Tokyo to Takayama (B) bamboo towers above you, and gaze in awe Day 15 Fly to UK (B) Your main suitcase will be transferred at the stunning Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Day at leisure, until your transfer to Kansai directly from Tokyo to Kyoto, but keep the Pavilion), where the top two floors are International Airport by airport shuttle bus luggage you need for your nights in completely covered in gold leaf. The rest of and your regional flight to the UK. Takayama, Shirakawago and Kanazawa. the day is at your leisure. Make your own way to the station for your Extend your holiday bullet train to Nagoya and onward train to Day 10 Kyoto (B) Takayama. Upon arrival, make your own Day at leisure. Should you want to, there are way to your accommodation. many optional tours available to pre-book. Home to 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Day 6 Takayama to Shirakawago (BD) Kyoto was the centre of politics for 1,100 Morning at leisure. Why not explore the years, and this culturally rich city offers many morning market along the Miya-gawa River, interesting places to visit including Takayama Jinya, the Yatai Kaikan Hall, museums, art galleries, shrines and temples. Kusakabe Folk Craft Museum and the streets During your time in Kyoto you may come of Kami Sannomachi, where you can see across a Geisha and Maiko (apprentice traditional Japanese wooden houses. In the Geisha) wearing traditional kimono in Gion, afternoon, take a Nohi bus to Shirakawago, one of the main downtown districts in Kyoto. and upon arrival, make your way to your accommodation for an overnight stay with dinner. The historic village of Shirakawago was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995, and is famous for preserving the traditional gassho-zukuri style houses with their iconic thatched roofs, some of which are more than 300 years old. Day 7 Shirakawago to Kanazawa (B) Day 11 Kyoto to Mt. Koya (BD) 5 days in Hokkaido from £525 Take a bus from Shirakawago to Kanazawa, Your main suitcase will be transferred 5 days in Okinawa from £868 and on arrival, make your way to your directly from Kyoto to Osaka. With your Includes: transfers, accommodation and daily accommodation. Afternoon free at leisure. overnight bag you will be met by an English speaking assistant at your accommodation breakfast Day 8 Kanazawa to Kyoto and Nara (B) who will take you to the station for your See pages 83 - 86 The day is free at leisure before catching train to Mt. Koya, followed by cable car via your express train to Kyoto. Upon arrival, Gokurakubashi. Tonight you will stay in a Departures and Prices you will be met by an English speaking temple lodging. Afternoon at leisure. Dinner 2020 and 2021 assistant and transferred to your will be served at your lodging. accommodation. In the afternoon, join the Departures are daily tour to Nara to visit the Todaiji Temple with Day 12 Mt. Koya to Hiroshima (B) Great Buddha, Nara Park, home to over Leave Mt. Koya for Hiroshima via Osaka, Price from £4,099 per person 1,200 wild shika deer, and the Kofuku-ji and on arrival, make your way to your Temple, before returning to Kyoto. accommodation. Afternoon at leisure. (Based on low season) Land only from £3,299 Day 9 Kyoto and Full Day Tour (BL) Day 13 Hiroshima (B) Join the full day tour of Kyoto after Day free at leisure to explore Hiroshima and Price includes: breakfast, and enjoy the panoramic views of Miyajima, with optional tours available to International flights, accommodation, the city from the impressive Kiyomizu-dera pre-book. Discover Hiroshima Atomic Bomb English speaking guides, transfers, bullet train, Temple. Continue to the Buddhist Dome, Peace Memorial Park and baggage transfers for one piece, meals as Sanjusangendo Temple, home to 1001 Itsuku-shima-jinja, located on Miya-jima specified (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner). statues of Kannon, and the intriguing Island, which is said to be one of the three Price excludes: Fushimi Inari Shrine with its brightly coloured most beautiful sights in Japan. Local tips, personal spending and travel Torii gates. At Arashiyama, visit the Tenryu-ji insurance. Temple, and marvel at the beautiful Zen Day 14 Hiroshima to Osaka (B) garden. Stroll through the scenic Sagano Leave Hiroshima for Osaka by train and Bamboo Grove, as the atmospheric make your own way to your hotel. The rest of the day at leisure. Visit your local travel agent, or call 020 8543 8133 77

GREAT TRAIL OF JAPAN HOKKAIDO Kushiro 17 DAY TOUR from £4,699 Sapporo Yudanaka Snow Monkeys Aomori Journey through Japan, taking in some of the most 1 NIGHT picturesque locations. Visit the modern capital Nagano Yudanaka Tokyo and enjoy a tour to Mt. Fuji and Hakone. See .T..a..k.a..y.a..m. a1MNaI.G.tHs.Tu.m..o..to.... Inbound flight the famous snow monkeys in the hot springs resort Kanazawa 1 NIGHT to Tokyo of Yudanaka. Take the train to the mountain city of 2 NIGHTS Matsumoto, then, spend time in the traditional ........ villages of Takayama, Shirakawago and Kanazawa. ........ TOKYO Enjoy three nights in the cultural city of Kyoto before ........ Mt Fuji 3 NIGHTS catching the Bullet train to the historic city of Hakone Hiroshima. Your last night is spent in the vibrant port KYOTO Nagoya city of Osaka. 3 NIGHTS 2 NIGHTS OSAKA 1 NIGHT HIROSHIMA Mt.Koya Kansai 1 NIGHT Airport Outbound Flight flight to UK Drive Train ........ Cruise Your Sample Accommodation Day 1 Fly to Tokyo Tokyo: Shiba Park Take a scheduled flight from your regional airport to Tokyo. Yudanaka: Issa no komichi Biyu no Yado Matsumoto: Matsumoto Marunouchi OKINAWA Takayama: Hida Plaza Hotel Kanazawa: Hotel Kanazawa Day 2 Arrive Tokyo Kyoto: New Miyako Hotel Arrive at Narita International Airport where you will be met by Mt Koya: Shukubo Fukuchi-in our representative and board an airport bus transfer to your Hiroshima: Hotel New Hiroden accommodation, and check in for a three night stay. Osaka: Elsereine Osaka Day 3 Tokyo Morning City Tour (B) Accommodation upgrades available Today, join the Tokyo Morning Tour, and an English speaking Accommodation will be as named above or similar guide will lead you to the Meiji Shrine, Tokyo Tower, Imperial Palace East Garden and Ginza, where the tour ends. Afternoon is free at leisure. 78 Visit www.linkstravelandtours.co.uk for more details

Day 4 Mt. Fuji and Hakone (BL) Day 9 Kanazawa (B) SEMI - ESCORTED TOURS Your day trip to Mt. Fuji and Hakone starts Day at leisure. Enjoy your day using your Day 14 Mt. Koya to Hiroshima (B) after breakfast. This includes an excursion Kanazawa Casual Package, which includes Leave Mt. Koya by cable car and train via to Mt. Fuji’s 5th station, a Japanese style a Loop Bus one day pass and a visit to the Gokurakubashi. Today’s travelling ends with lunch, the Hakone Ropeway, and a relaxing fabulous Kenrokuen Garden. Also enjoy tea a bullet train to Hiroshima and an afternoon boat cruise on Lake Ashi. at Kikantei and a gold leaf art experience. at leisure. Day 5 Tokyo to Nagano and Yudanaka (BD) Day 10 Kanazawa to Kyoto (B) Day 15 Hiroshima (B) Your main suitcase will be transferred Free time to admire the gardens and Another day at leisure. Perhaps spend time directly from Tokyo to Takayama, and you museums, until your express train to Kyoto. at the Hiroshima Atomic Bomb Dome will need to keep an overnight bag for your Upon arrival, make your way to your (Genbaku Dome) located in the Peace nights in Yudanaka and Matsumoto. Make accommodation to check in. Memorial Park, or the Itsuku-shima-jinja on your way to the station for your bullet train Miyajima Island, said to be one of the most to Nagano, where an English-speaking Day 11 Kyoto and Nara Day tour (B) beautiful sights in Japan. Enjoy your free assistant will meet you at the platform and Today, you have a full day walking tour of day using your 1-Day Tour voucher, which assist with boarding a local train to Nara and Kyoto. In Nara, you will visit the includes a night cruise. Yudanaka. Upon arrival, check in at your Todaiji Temple with Great Buddha, Nara accommodation, and make your way to the Park and the Kofuku-ji Temple, and in Day 16 Hiroshima to Osaka (B) Snow Monkey Park (Jigokudani Yaenkoen) Kyoto, you should see the Tenryuji Temple, Following breakfast, catch a bullet train to and an exhilarating mountain walk. Return Sagano Bamboo Grove, Jojakkoji Temple Osaka and an afternoon free at leisure. to your accommodation for dinner. and Togetsu Bridge, before finishing at Osaka is a bustling port city and Kyoto Station. commercial powerhouse known for its Day 6 Yudanaka to Nagano and modern architecture, boisterous nightlife Matsumoto (BD) Day 12 Kyoto (B) and tasty street food. There are many sites Catch a train to Nagano, where you will Day is at leisure, with optional tours to see and shops to visit including the have some time to discover the local area available to pre-book. Home to 17 impressive Osaka-jo Castle and a gigantic before continuing to Matsumoto for an UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Kyoto was underground shopping centre beneath overnight stay. the centre of politics for 1,100 years. This Umeda, that houses many restaurants, culturally rich city offers many interesting fashion and general goods stores. Osaka is Day 7 Matsumoto to Takayama (B) places to visit including museums, art also widely known as the Nation’s Kitchen, Maybe explore the city’s imposing galleries, shrines and temples. You will also offering an incredible array of tasty Matsumoto Castle, or a former Samurai discover an exciting food culture with a Japanese dishes. residence. Your tour continues to Takayama, variety of deliciously tempting dishes on home to a twice-yearly festival celebrating offer including Sushi, Kaiseki-ryori, tempura Day 17 Fly to UK (B) spring and autumn. and noodles. During your time in Kyoto you Day at leisure until your shuttle bus transfer may spot Geisha and Maiko (apprentice to the airport. Fly to your regional airport in Day 8 Takayama to Shirakawago and Geisha) wearing traditional kimono. the UK. Kanazawa (B) Uncover the fascinating history of the Edo Day 13 Kyoto to Mt. Koya (BD) Extend your holiday period on view in the wooden merchants’ Once again, your main suitcase will be houses in the Sanmachi Suji district. Keep transferred on and you will need to keep 3 days in Hong Kong from £299 an overnight bag for your nights in your next an overnight bag for your nights in Mt.Koya 5 days in Okinawa from £868 destination, as your main luggage will be and Hiroshima. Make your way to Mt.Koya transferred directly to Kyoto. Make your way by train and cable car via Gokurakubashi. Includes: transfers, accommodation and daily to Kanazawa via the traditional thatched This is one of Japan’s most sacred breakfast houses of Shirakawago. mountain’s, where you will stay and dine in the temple lodgings. See pages 41, 83 - 86 Departures and Prices 2020 and 2021 Departures are daily Price from £4,699 per person Land only from £3,899 Price includes: International flights, accommodation, English speaking guides, transfers, bullet train, baggage transfers for one piece, meals as specified (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner). Price excludes: Local tips, personal spending and travel insurance. Visit your local travel agent, or call 020 8543 8133 79

TAILOR - MADE JOURNEYS AND PRIVATE TOURS If you can’t find a tour that fits your requirements, let us tailor-make your entire holiday designed specifically around your requirements. Equipped with our specialist knowledge and first-hand experience of Japan, we will create a personal and independent itinerary for you. With our selected standard, superior and deluxe accommodation, we will put together an itinerary based on your budget and preferences. For some ideas and inspiration, the following suggestions provide just a small flavour of the many possibilities available. Please contact our Japan Personal Travel Advisors to discuss your ideal itinerary. TOKYO Japan’s dazzling capital, Tokyo has an intriguing mix of historic and modern, with skyscrapers and neon-lit streets side-by-side with ancient temples and shrines. This breathtaking city has so much to offer, there really is something for everyone. Tokyo is made up of several districts: Asakusa TOKYO 4 Day The spiritual heart of Tokyo, Asakusa is home to the city’s Day 1 Tokyo most popular Buddhist temple, Senso-ji. This is where the On arrival at the airport in Tokyo, transfer to the Shiba Park Hotel people of Tokyo come to worship, ponder and make a wish by shuttle bus. The rest of the day is at leisure. at the Asakusa-jinja Shrine. Shinjuku Day 2 Tokyo Full Day Tour (B) A Tokyo Full Day Tour takes you to the Meiji Shrine, Imperial Palace Shinjuku embodies everything that is modern Japan, a busy East Garden, Tokyo Skytree and on an enjoyable cruise of Tokyo neon-lit district with a bustling nightlife and towering Bay. skyscrapers. Tokyo Bay and Odaiba Day 3 Tokyo (B) Day at leisure to explore Tokyo. Optional day tours to Nikko Set on a man-made island in Tokyo Bay, Odaiba is where to UNESCO World Heritage Site or Mt. Fuji and Hakone. go for general seaside fun and a relaxed atmosphere. Day 4 Depart (B) Ginza Day at leisure until your transfer to the airport for your onward journey. This elegant area of Tokyo is renowned for being home of some of the city’s original department stores, and Prices backstreets with unique boutiques and small eateries. Price from £595 Akihabara Based on twin share including return airport transfers, 3 nights Akihabara is jam-packed with shops selling all kinds of standard accommodation, daily breakfast, Full Day Tokyo electronics and is now the cultural home to diehard fans of City Tour, English speaking guide on arrival. gaming, manga and anime, known as otaku! 80 Visit www.linkstravelandtours.co.uk for more details

TAILOR – MADE KYOTO A holiday to Japan is not complete without spending time in this former capital. Home to 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Kyoto is brimming with museums, art galleries, shrines, temples, and an exciting food culture with a variety of amazing dishes on offer. Gion District KYOTO 4 Day Known as Kyoto’s most famous geisha district, Gion is Day 1 Kyoto packed with traditional teahouses, and is at its most On arrival at the airport in Osaka, you will be met and shown to atmospheric in the early evening, when the Maiko rush to the shuttle bus transfer to the New Miyako Hotel to check in. The their appointments. rest of the day is at leisure, to relax or explore the local area. You may wish to dine in one of the hotel’s many restaurants, or have a relaxing drink at the hotel bar. Day 2 Kyoto Day Tour (BL) Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before joining your Kyoto Day Tour. This comprehensive tour visits the city’s main sites, including the impressive Nijo Castle, the ‘Golden’ Kinkakuji Temple where the top two floors are covered in gold leaf, and the majestic Kyoto Imperial Palace, or the ancient Kitano-tenmangu Shrine. After a lunch of Japanese tasty treats, continue to the Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine with it’s 5,000 torii gates, the impressive Sanjusangendo Temple and the celebrated Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Nara Day 3 Kyoto (B) Day at leisure to explore Kyoto. Suggested tours include Real Kyoto Nara is home to some of the country’s best temples and Back Street Guided Cycling Tour, Tea Ceremony and Ginkau-ji shrines, along with several fine gardens, museums, eight Temple Walking Tour, Sagano Bamboo Grove and Arashiyama UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and the almost-tame deer at Walking Tour. the Nara-koen Park! Day 4 Depart (B) Day at leisure until your transfer to the airport for your onward journey. Prices 81 Price from £688 Including return airport transfers, 3 nights standard accommodation, daily breakfast, Full Day Kyoto City Tour, English-speaking guide on arrival, meals as specified (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch) Visit your local travel agent, or call 020 8543 8133

TAILOR – MADE OSAKA HIROSHIMA MOUNT KOYA Osaka is a large port, known for its This modern city was rebuilt post-war, Mount Koya is the name of the modern architecture, boisterous and is home to the Hiroshima Atomic mountains in Wakayama Prefecture nightlife, tasty street food, and the Bomb Dome, situated in the Peace to the south of Osaka. It is the centre impressive, Osaka-jo Castle. Known Memorial Park. The Itsuku-shima-jinja of Shingon Buddhism, an important as the Nation’s Kitchen, the city offers shrine, located on Miyajima Island, is Buddhist sect which was introduced to an incredible array of delicious dishes. said to be one of Japan’s three most Japan in 805. beautiful sights. OSAKA 3 Day HIROSHIMA AND MOUNT KOYA 3 Day Day 1 Osaka MIYAJIMA 3 Day Day 1 Mount Koya (D) Travel by train and cable car from Osaka to Arrive Kansai Airport, and transfer to the Day 1 Hiroshima Mount Koya via Gokurakubashi, and make Hotel Elsereine. Rest of the day is at leisure. Take the Bullet train to Hiroshima, and your way to your temple lodging for a two night stay with dinner. Day 2 Osaka Afternoon Walking Tour (B) check-in to the Hotel Granvia Hiroshima. Join an afternoon walking tour of Osaka’s The remainder of the day is at leisure. Day 2 Mount Koya (BD) Spend the day exploring around Mount famous sightseeing spots and see the city Day 2 Full Day Tour (B) Koya, one of Japan’s most sacred from the water aboard the Aqua Liner. This full day tour visits the popular World mountains. A vegetarian, Buddhist dinner will be served at your accommodation. Day 3 Depart (B) Heritage Sites of the Itsukushima Shrine, the Day 3 Depart (B) Day at leisure until your transfer to the airport Atomic Bomb Dome, and Hiroshima Peace Travel by cable car and train to Osaka, for and Memorial Park. your onward journey. and your onward journey. Day 3 Depart (B) Take the Bullet train from Hiroshima to Kyoto or Osaka. Prices Prices Prices Price from £445 Price from £460 Price from £425 Including 2 nights standard Including 2 nights standard Including transportation as specified, 2 accommodation, return airport transfers, accommodation, full Day Hiroshima nights temple lodging, meals as English speaking guide on arrival, meals and Miyajima Tour, meals as specified specified (B=Breakfast, D=Dinner) as specified (B=Breakfast) (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch) 82 Visit www.linkstravelandtours.co.uk for more details

TAILOR – MADE HOKKAIDO YUDANAKA HAKUBA Hokkaido is an island at Japan’s far A popular hot springs resort, Hakuba, host to the 1998 Winter north, where low humidity makes the summers pleasant, and the winter’s Yudanaka is famous for the Snow Olympics, is a highland resort at the ideal for snow sports. This beautiful island is a haven for wildlife, making Monkeys that live in the area. A special foot of the Hakuba-Sanzan Mountains. it popular throughout the year. It also boasts over 1,200 festivals and events outdoor bath was built for the Hakuba Valley is renowned for its dry, each year! monkeys, who have become one deep and consistent powder snow of the most photographed sights in quality, and huge variety of terrain. Japan. Yudanaka also has many The village has a lively après-ski scene temples and historic buildings for you and hot springs for you to try. to explore. HOKKAIDO 4 Day ZENKOJI and SNOW MONKEY HAKUBA SKI RESORT Day 1 Sapporo TOUR 3 Day 5 Day On arrival at the airport in Sapporo, take the Day 1 Tokyo to Zenkoji (D) Day 1 Hakuba shuttle bus transfer to the Monterey Sapporo Catch a bullet train to Nagano, where you Depart Tokyo for Hakuba by express bus, Hotel and check in. The remainder of the day will be met and taken to Zenkoji Temple for and on arrival, make your way to the is at leisure, to relax after your journey, or a one night stay. After settling into your Hakuba Tokyu Hotel. The rest of the day is explore the local area. accommodation, you will be treated to a at leisure, maybe relax in the hotel spa, or Day 2 Full Day City Tour (B) typical monk’s dinner. perhaps enjoy a meal in one of the hotel’s Enjoy a full day city tour of Sapporo restaurants. including visits to the Hokkaido Jingu Shrine, Day 2 Zenkoji to Obuse and Shiroi Koibito Park Factory, Sapporo Central Yudanaka (BD) Days 2-4 Hakuba Ski Resort (B) Wholesale Market, Okuramaya Ski Jump Travel to the charming town of Obuse, the Enjoy the skiing in the winter, and the and Hitsujigaoka Observatory (tour will be final home of the famous Japanese artist relaxing onsen all year round, at Hakuba changed according to season). Hokusai, for some sightseeing. Continue Happo-one Winter Resort. You may also by train to Yudanaka and check in at the wish to learn about the 1,400 year old Taiko Day 3 Sapporo (B) ryokan, where dinner will be served. Drum culture, or don a kimono for a traditional Japanese tea ceremony. A full day at leisure to explore this fascinating Day 3 Snow Monkeys (B) city further. You could treat yourself to a trip After breakfast, take the bus from your Day 5 Depart (B) to the Sapporo Beer Museum, and maybe accommodation to the Snow Monkey Park Following breakfast at your hotel, check out sample a few glasses before moving on. (Yaen Koen). Created in 1964, the park is and leave Hakuba for your return journey Perhaps take a relaxing stroll through Odori a conservation area where the monkeys are back to Tokyo. Park, or take the Mount Moiwa Ropeway free to do as they please, including bathing on your way to the top of the mountain, to in onsens. Return to the station for your admire the spectacular city views. onward train journey. Day 4 Depart (B) Day at leisure until your transfer to the airport by shuttle bus for your onward journey. Prices Prices Prices Price from £525 Price from £999 Price from £1,295 Including return airport transfers, Including English speaking guide on Including 4 nights superior English speaking guide on arrival, 3 arrival, 1 night temple lodging,1 night at accommodation, meals as specified nights standard accommodation, Full ryokan, return bullet train Tokyo - (B=Breakfast), 3 day Hakuba Happo-one Day Sapporo City tour, meals as Nagano, meals as specified (B= ski pass, 3 day ski, ski boots and stock specified (B=Breakfast) Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner) set, Express bus Tokyo - Hakuba– Tokyo Visit your local travel agent, or call 020 8543 8133 83

TAILOR – MADE THE JAPANESE ALPS The Japan Alps, also known as the “Chubu Sangaku National Park” is home to world-famous ski resorts and fascinating sightseeing opportunities. Excellent transport links allow visitors to move from one site to another, making for a truly memorable holiday. TAKAYAMA, SHIRAKAWAGO AND NAKASENDO WAY 4 Day KANAZAWA 6 Day Discover the Nakasendo Way, one of Japan’s ancient highways, connecting Kyoto and Tokyo during the Edo Enjoy a tour of the Japanese Alps, exploring Takayama’s period. Explore the route along the Kiso Valley, uncovering historic Edo-period streets, discovering the traditional some of the ancient post stations such as Tsumago and gassho-zukuri farmhouses of Shirakawago, and admiring the Magome. exquisite gardens in Kanazawa. Day 1 Matsumoto Day 1 Takayama Arrive Matsumoto and make your way to your hotel. The rest of the On arrival in Takayama, make your way to your accommodation day is at leisure. and check in. The rest of the day is at leisure to relax after your journey, or explore the local area. Day 2 Takayama (B) Day 2 Nakasendo Walking Trail (BD) Day at leisure to explore this delightful city. Perhaps visit Take the train from Matsumoto to Yabuhara and walk from Takayama-Jinya, a former government headquarters from the Edo Yabuharajuku to Naraijuku, about 6km. Overnight stay at a period, Matsuri no Mori, a unique museum filled with highly Minshuku in Naraijuku. decorated festival floats. Maybe explore the charming, traditional houses in Kamisannomachi Street, part of the old town. Day 3 Nakasendo Walking Trail (BD) Take the train from Narai to Nakatsugawa, and walk from Day 3 Takayama to Shirakawago (B) Magomejyuku to Tsumagojyuku, about 9km, for an overnight stay Take a bus to enchanting Shirakawago. Afternoon at leisure to at a Minshuku. discover the famous gasshou-zukuri farmhouses, which are more than 250 years old. Day 4 Kyoto (B) From Nagiso take the train to Nakatsugawa and on to Nagoya, for Day 4 Shirakawago to Kanazawa (B) a bullet train to Kyoto. Catch a bus to Kanazawa, and make your way to the hotel to check in. The rest of the day is at leisure. Day 5 Kanazawa (B) Day at leisure to uncover Kanazawa. Perhaps visit the renowned Kenrokuen Garden, marvel at the exhibits in the museum and experience the old Samurai houses. Day 6 Depart (B) Check out of your hotel for your onward journey. Prices Prices Price from £627 Price from £699 Including 5 nights standard accommodation, transportation as Including 1 night standard accommodation, 2 nights in specified, meals as specified (B=Breakfast) traditional Minshuku, meals as specified (B = Breakfast, D = Dinner), transportation by train and Nakasendo Way walking map. 84 Visit www.linkstravelandtours.co.uk for more details

TAILOR – MADE MOUNT FUJI CLIMB 2 Day KUMANO KODO PILGRIMAGE ROUTE 4 Day This two day programme provides a fully guided climb of Mt. This journey takes you along one of Japan’s ancient Fuji, with meals included. After a long hike on the first day, pilgrimage routes, the Kumano Kodo. Staying in Minshuku, you can enjoy a hot meal and a few hours rest at a mountain visiting sacred sites and remote villages. hut, before continuing to climb to the summit of Mt. Fuji, arriving in time to see the sun rise over this magical land. Day 1 Kawayu Onsen (D) Take the train to Kii-Tanabe; receive an orientation briefing and Day 1 Ascent of Mt. Fuji (D) catch a bus to Kawayu Onsen, for an overnight stay and dinner. Travel to Tochomae Station, where you will be met, briefed and transferred to Mt. Fuji’s 5th Station. This is where your climb starts Day 2 Yunomine Onsen (BLD) and continues to the 8th Station, arriving in the early evening for a Your luggage will be transferred separately. Walk across Kumano hot meal and a few hours much needed rest. Kodo Hosshinmon-oji as far as Kumano Hongu Taisha, visiting the heritage centre and Oyunohara. Continue from Hongu to Day 2 Descent of Mt. Fuji (B) Yunomine Onsen-Daichi-Goe, and an overnight stay with dinner, at The climb sets off again around 1.30am, after a few hours rest, and Kosakaya. continues to the summit, arriving in time to marvel at the spectacular sunrise and tuck in to a welcome breakfast. After taking Day 3 Katsura Onsen (BD) in the magnificent views, it is time to descend this stunning Your luggage will be transferred separately. Catch the bus to Hitari mountain and return to Mt. Fuji’s 5th Station. From here, there will and a boat across the Kumano River. Visit Kumano Hayatama be a bus transfer to Shinjuku Station, where the tour ends. Taisha, move on to Shingu-Nachi-Daimonzaka Chusajo and walk to Kumano Nachi Taisha, visiting Seiganto-ji and Nachi Falls. Take Note: Mt. Fuji is only open to climb during the summer the bus to Katsuura and check-in at Katsura Onsen. months of July and August. This tour is not available at other times. Day 4 Osaka (B) Take the train from Katsuura to Shin-Osaka, for your onward journey. Prices Prices Price from £489 Price from £1,599 Including 1 night accommodation at a Japanese style Including 3 nights traditional Minshuku accommodation, meals mountain hut, meals as specified (B=Breakfast, D=Dinner), as specified (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner), English speaking guide, transportation as specified transportation as specified, English speaking guide. Visit your local travel agent, or call 020 8543 8133 85

TAILOR – MADE Okinawa and Ishigaki Okinawa Okinawa prefecture can be divided into three major groups, the Okinawa Shoto, the Miyako Retto, and the Yaeyama Retto. The seas surrounding Okinawa’s islands are considered among the world’s most beautiful, filled with coral reefs and marine wildlife, so snorkelling and scuba diving are extremely popular activities. Okinawa Main Island Ishigaki Okinawa Main Island can be more or less split into three different The beautiful coastlines which surround Ishigaki are filled with zones, north, central and south. The North is brimming with verdant glorious white-sand beaches, some net-protected and ideal for forests, the Central area is home to a wide variety of cultures, while families. Others more secluded and just metres from coral reefs, are the South is brimming with historic temples. perfect for snorkelling. OKINAWA 4 Day ISHIGAKI 5 Day Day 1 Arrive Okinawa (D) Day 1 Arrive Ishigaki Arrive at the airport, where you will be met and transferred to either Arrive at Ishigaki Airport where you will be met and transferred to the Rizzan Sea Park Hotel Tancha Bay or the Laguna Garden Hotel, your accommodation by taxi. The rest of the day is at leisure. for a three-night stay with dinner each night. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Days 2-4 Ishigaki (B) Days at leisure to relax on the beach or perhaps take an optional Days 2-3 Okinawa (BD) excursion to Taketomi Island. Days at leisure to relax by the beach and enjoy your hotel facilities. You may also wish to explore the nature in the north, the temples in Day 5 Depart (B) the south, or snorkel in the crystal clear waters. Take the transfer from your accommodation to the airport for your onward flight. Day 4 Depart (B) Day at leisure until your transfer to the airport. Accommodation Ishigaki Seaside Hotel Accommodation Located a short drive from Kabira Bay, the Ishigaki Seaside Hotel Rizzan Sea Park enjoys a beautiful beachfront location and offers comfortable Located in the central part of Okinawa Main Island, on the west guestrooms with modern amenities. There is a restaurant and coast, right beside the dazzling white-sand beach. There are various outdoor pool. dining options available and the resort has an indoor and outdoor swimming pool. Fusaki Resort & Village Located on Fusaki Beach, the resort has an outdoor swimming pool, Laguna Garden Hotel a spa, several dining options, and is just a 15-minute walk from the The hotel is located on the west coast of the main island, a short Harbour. walk from the beach. There is a large freeform outdoor swimming pool. Comfortable guestrooms have modern amenities. Prices Prices Price from £868 Price from £895 Including return airport transfers, English speaking guide on Including: 4 nights superior accommodation on twin share arrival, 3 nights superior accommodation, daily breakfast and basis, daily breakfast, return airport transfers. (Domestic flight dinner. (Domestic flight cost not included). cost not included). © Okinawa Convention Visitors Bureau © Okinawa Convention Visitors Bureau 86 Visit www.linkstravelandtours.co.uk for more details

JAPAN RAIL PASS TAILOR – MADE The Japan Rail Pass offers excellent value for money, especially if you are planning to visit several destinations during your stay, as it is valid for travel on the entire Japan Railways network, including the famous Shinkansen bullet trains (except for the Nozomi and Mizuho trains) and a selection of buses and ferries too! Available only to visitors to Japan, with a “temporary visitor” status in their passports, it must be pre-booked before departure from the UK. Durations of 7, 14 and 21 days, which can be bought in Ordinary (economy) class or the upgraded Green (first) class, make it ideal for any holiday to this wonderful country. The process is simple; you will be issued with an Exchange Order in the UK to exchange for your Rail Pass once you arrive in Japan. Once you have received it, the Pass makes it possible for you to make seat reservations locally at no extra charge. The JR Pass offers endless possibilities for travelling around Japan in any season and there are also various regional passes available. Below are some sample itineraries for making the most of your travel experiences with a JR Pass. Highlights of Honshu Hokkaido Trail Kyushu Explored Explore Japan’s main island of Honshu by Japan’s northern island of Hokkaido Kyushu is Japan’s third largest island, it rail, visiting many of the country’s major is vast, but many of the main cities is located southwest of the main island cities and cultural sites, from Tokyo to can effectively be explored by train. of Honshu and has a superb network of Osaka. With wonderful memories made This round trip from Sapporo, visits Limited Express trains allowing for along the way! the fascinating towns of Asahikawa, exploration of most of the main cities Abashiri and Kushiro. on the island. Day 1 Tokyo Day 2 Tokyo – Nikko - Tokyo Day 1 Hakodate – Sapporo Day 1 Fukuoka Day 3 Tokyo – Kamakura - Tokyo Day 2 Sapporo Day 2 Fukuoka Day 4 Tokyo – Hakone Day 3 Sapporo – Asahikawa Day 3 Fukuoka – Nagasaki Day 5 Hakone – Nagano Day 4 Asahikawa Day 4 Nagasaki Day 6 Nagano – Takayama Day 5 Asahikawa – Abashiri Day 5 Nagasaki – Kumamoto Day 7 Takayama Day 6 Abashiri Day 6 Kumamoto Day 8 Takayama – Kanazawa Day 7 Abashiri – Kushiro Day 7 Kumamoto – Kagoshima Day 9 Kanazawa – Kyoto Day 8 Kushiro Day 8 Kagoshima Day 10 Kyoto Day 9 Kushiro – Sapporo Day 9 Kagoshima – Oita Day 11 Kyoto – Nara – Kyoto Day 10 Depart Day 10 Oita Day 12 Kyoto – Hiroshima Day 11 Oita – Fukuoka Day 13 Hiroshima – Miyajima – Hiroshima Day 12 Depart Day 14 Hiroshima – Osaka Day 15 Depart NINJA WIFI 87 Keep your friends and family up to date with your adventures by updating your social media or messaging them on the go. Links Travel & Tours is pleased to offer a mobile WiFi device rental service from our mobile partner Ninja WiFi, with prices from just £8 per day! Features of this service include: • Unlimited data usage and high speed internet • Connects your smart phone or PC to the internet • Can connect up to 5 devices at once • Battery life of 9 hours • Highly secure (password protected) • Pick up / drop off at multiple locations (all major international airports) • Rental includes router, carry case, charging cable and instruction manual • Optional insurance plan (at additional charge) Visit your local travel agent, or call 020 8543 8133

TAILOR – MADE JAPAN CULTURAL EXPERIENCES Japan offers an array of sporting events, theme parks, museums, festivals and special events, and we are happy to arrange these local experiences as part of your holiday. Experiences include watching a Sumo tournament, Formula 1 at Suzuka, Baseball, Kabuki (classical Japanese dance-drama), Ghibli Musuem, Takarazuka (all-female musical theatre troupe), Tokyo Disneyland, Tokyo DisneySea, museums and local festivals. Please contact us for more information, dates and latest availability. Golf in Japan Tokyo Toyosu Outer Fish Market Japan has over 2,500 golf courses, more than the rest of A wholesale fish market in Tokyo, Toyosu is known as one of Asia put together! The sport is extremely popular in Japan, the world’s largest fish markets handling over 2,000 tons of with the country being home to some of the world’s best marine products per day. The market has become a tourist courses, suitable for every budget and skill level. Please spot in its own right and the fascinating tuna auctions are contact us for further details. immensely popular. Perhaps take a morning visit to the Toyosu market and enjoy a fresh sushi breakfast from one of Tokyo Sumo Experience & Chanko Lunch the many restaurants or food stands. Experience a sumo wrestlers’ daily life and lunch. Witness Sushi Workshop Morning Tour demonstrations by retired Sumo wrestlers with stories on its history, practice and tournaments. You can also try on a Experience a hand-shaping and sushi rolling lesson from a Sumo costume and challenge a Sumo wrestler to a match. Tsukiji sushi chef, and taste your own work of art for lunch. Enjoy the great taste of Chanko-nabe, their symbolic, and Your guide will lead the tour around Tsukiji Outer Fish traditional meal. Market and through the many bustling shops. Kyoto Gion Kimono Tour Kyoto Tea Ceremony & Ginkau-ji Temple Walking Tour Wear an authentic Kimono or Yukata (light cotton kimono worn in summer months), and experience a guided walking Visit the Ginkauji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, tour around the Gion district. Includes hairstyling and tabi and wander along the Philosopher’s Path. This is followed by (traditional socks). Available for people up to 185cm tall and a traditional tea ceremony for a taste of Japanese culture. waist sizes up to 100cm. Kyoto Dinner with Maiko Kyoto Sagano Bamboo Grove and Arashiyama Walking Tour Enjoy a dinner at the traditional Ohara Gyozanen, with a Maiko (apprentice Geisha). The restaurant is situated in a Visit Arashiyama, famous for its bamboo grove and Tenryu-ji quiet location away from downtown Kyoto, near the Temple, one of Kyoto’s best Zen temples. Enjoy the beautiful Ohara-sanzenin Temple. After dinner, a Maiko will perform landscaped garden and stroll through the scenic Sagano two traditional dances, and you can ask questions and take Bamboo Grove. Visit the Jojakko-ji Temple and the Togetsu photos. Bridge that straddles the Katsura River. Enjoy a Japanese style lunch on a Yakatabune Boat trip through Arashiyama. Kobe Sightseeing and Nada Sake Brewery Train tickets back to Kyoto will be distributed before lunch Walking Tour when the tour ends. Visit the Kitano-Ijinkan District and Meriken Park. After a buffet-style lunch, visit the Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum in Nada, a town famous for its sake breweries. 88 Visit www.linkstravelandtours.co.uk for more details

TAILOR – MADE Osaka Samurai Experience Traditional Japanese Crafts Step back to ancient times and learn about the Samurai. There are many different traditional crafts that can be seen or Hear about Samurai etiquette, their outfit, sword training, attempted to give a further insight into Japan’s culture. These using the sword in fighting and witness a short Samurai play. include Ikebana Flower Arranging, which is considered a You will also wear a Kimono or Ninja costume. disciplined art form, where nature and humanity are brought together. Origami, the well-known art of Japanese paper Calligraphy and Meditation folding, calligraphy, Japanese sweet making and Japanese pottery. Arrangements can be made to see these crafts in Stay overnight at a Buddhist temple where you can try your action or to take part in a workshop or lesson. hand at the ancient writing technique of Calligraphy. The following morning you can join the monks for meditation. Tokyo Disney Resort Universal Studios Japan Located around 50 minutes by train from Shinjuku Station, A short journey from Osaka Station, Universal Studios is Tokyo Disney Resort is comprised of Tokyo Disneyland and conveniently located and easy to get to. The park offers a DisneySea. Both parks have their own attractions, parades huge range of attractions, rides, shows and dining outlets and characters and a choice of tickets are available from 1 with 1-Day or 2-Day Studio Passes available. Explore the Day up to 4 Days. There is a range of accommodation within World of Harry Potter, enjoy the Jurassic Park ride and come close proximity to the Resort and a monorail operates linking face to face with a dinosaur, or discover Snoopy Studios and up many of the hotels with the parks. Sesame Street fun world. A fantastic day for all the family! Visit your local travel agent, or call 020 8543 8133 89

TAILOR – MADE Robot Restaurant Karaoke Bars Located in the Shinjuku area of Tokyo, this themed restaurant features a lively pop-culture show with robots, dancers and Karaoke is a hugely popular pastime in Japan. There are a lasers to amaze you. large number of karaoke bars available, especially in the larger cities such as Tokyo and Osaka. Maid Cafes Cat Cafes Anime Cafes The unusual phenomenon of maid cafes Extremely popular in Japan, there are There are many cafes celebrating anime in Japan, where the waitresses dress in over 150 cat cafes throughout the in Japan, including the Pokeman Café, and the Good Smile Café, which has a maid costumes, has become so popular country, mostly in the larger cities of themed menu and décor. The Animate Café has multiple locations throughout that there are now over 200 maid cafes Tokyo and Osaka. Enjoy a drink and the country. in Tokyo alone. interact with the furry residents. Pop Culture – Manga and Anime Tokyo Ghibli Museum Mitaka Spirited Away, Howl’s Moving Castle, and Porco Rosso are just some of the animated films celebrated at the museum created by Hayao Miyazaki. Exhibits include animation techniques and a recreation of an animation artist’s workshop. The museum is child friendly and is well worth a 2-3 hour visit. Fairs and conventions • Comic Market, or Comiket, is one of the largest manga and anime fairs. It is held twice a year in Tokyo during August and December. • Animelo Summer Live is the world’s largest anime live concert, usually held during August and featuring live performances of anime songs. • Anime Japan was established in 2014 and is held annually in Tokyo during March. Exhibitors sell merchandise and there are also various performances and events. Famous Festivals and Celebrations You may wish to combine your holiday dates with one or more of the many colourful local festivals (matsuri) held in Japan throughout the year. Popular ones include: • Snow Festival - Yuki Matsuri, Sapporo (February) • Month Long Festival - Gion Matsuri, Kyoto (July) • River Procession - Tenjin Matsuri, Osaka (July) • Traditional Dance Festival Awa Odori, Tokushima City (August) • Huge Lantern Floats - Nebuta Matsuri, Aomori City (August) • Spectacular Float Racing - Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri, Kishiwada City (September) • Historical Parade - Jidai Matsuri, Kyoto (October) • Night Festival - Chichibu Yomatsuri, Saitama (December) 90 Visit www.linkstravelandtours.co.uk for more details

ONSENS IN JAPAN TAILOR – MADE Onsen – Hot Spring Baths Discover the centuries old tradition of these thermal hot baths that play a large part in Japanese culture. There are over 20,000 sources of hot springs in Japan and over 3,000 accommodations that have onsen attached. Located all over the country, many onsen are part of the traditional Japanese Inns called ryokan (see page 93). Others are found in public bathhouses. Depending on the onsen they can be private or segregated, so please check at the time of enquiry. There are many areas in Japan that are well-known for their onsen, and some of our favourites are listed below: Beppu Onsen Kinosaki Onsen Oita Prefecture, Kyushu Hyogo Prefecture, Honshu The city of Beppu, on the south-western island of Kyushu has Kinosaki Onsen can be reached in an hour and a half from eight different hot springs, each with ryokan and public baths Osaka. Hidden in the mountains, away from the crowds of with bathing facilities. Together they produce more hot spring the cities, Kinosaki has quiet temples, moss covered forests water than any other onsen resort in the country. and soft sandy beaches. Shibu Onsen Dogo Onsen Nagano Prefecture, Honshu Ehime Prefecture, Shikoku A charming little town with a 1,300 year history, it has Situated around 3 hours from Okayama, or 4 ½ hours from ancient cobblestone paths with traditional wooden ryokan, Osaka, Dogo Onsen is on one of the smallest of Japan’s where visitors can often be seen strolling through the lanes main islands, Shikoku. It is one of the earliest known hot in their yukata. Shibu Onsen can be combined with a visit to spring spa towns and is famous for being an inspiration for Yudanaka to see the famous Snow Monkeys. the Japanese anime film, Spirited Away, a Ghibli film. Japan’s Three Best Onsen Gero Onsen Kusatsu Onsen Arima Onsen Gifu Prefecture, Honshu Located around 45 minutes by train Gunma Prefecture, Honshu Hyogo Prefecture, Honshu from Takayama, it has been known as a hot spring resort since the 10th century. Located around 3 hours from Tokyo by A hidden treasure, this hot spring resort The waters here are said to help relieve train and bus, the town has been known is located around 40 minutes by train certain medical conditions as well as as a hot spring resort for many centuries. from Kobe and around 1½ hours from relieving fatigue, aiding skin tone and The source of the hot spring water is the Kyoto. With more than 1,000 years of complexion. nearby Mount Kusatsu-Shirane and it is history, the oldest onsen town in Japan, said to have fantastic health benefits. Arima Onsen has become a well-known hot spring retreat where the waters are said to have unique healing properties. Visit your local travel agent, or call 020 8543 8133 91

JAPAN ACCOMMODATION We offer a wide range of accommodation in Japan, allowing you to find the holiday most suitable to your budget and preferred experiences, encompassing what Japan has to offer. The western style hotels range from standard, superior and deluxe, and are located in the areas that are suitable for your tour. A holiday to Japan is not complete without a stay in an authentic and traditional Japanese accommodation called a ryokan with a hot spring (onsen). Depending on your location, other authentic accommodation we can include are Minshuku (traditional guest house) and Shokubo (temple) lodging. We can accommodate solo travellers, couples and families alike, with the option to stay in standard, superior or deluxe accommodation. Group Tour Accommodation Most of our group tours are based on standard accommodation, a sample of which can be found on the individual tour pages. We select from a range of accommodation for our tours, the style of which can vary from one destination to the next. It is also worth noting that room sizes in Japan tend to be more compact, especially in the larger cities. Room upgrades can be requested at time of quotation. When staying in traditional Japanese ryokan, beds will usually be futon-style. Western Style Hotels A selection of standard, superior and deluxe hotels are offered with our tailor-made journeys. We provide western style hotels that are part of recognised hotel chains, boutique properties, with their own individual character, and comfortable smaller lodgings. These recommended properties will have an en-suite bath, provide western beds and have good links with public transport. Standard (equivalent 3*) Most of our tours are based on standard accommodation with the option to upgrade to Superior or Deluxe. Standard hotels, ideal for the leisure and business traveller, provide comfort with rooms being smaller than the superior and deluxe hotels. Superior (equivalent 4*) Depending on budget and personal requirements, most tour itineraries provide you with the opportunity to upgrade to this higher grade of hotel. Superior hotels offer additional facilities with rooms being larger than standard hotels. Deluxe (equivalent 5*) These are the very best hotels that Japan has to offer, with many being part of well known international chains. A selection of boutique properties, some that are unique to Japan, may also be available. 92 Visit www.linkstravelandtours.co.uk for more details

Ryokan Discover Japanese style hospitality during your time at a traditional Japanese Inn called a ryokan. During your stay at a ryokan you will learn about traditional Japanese culture including garden design, architecture and cooking. Many ryokans include a relaxing hot spring, and at night you will get the chance to sleep on a futon. Modern beds may be an option in some ryokans. Board basis can be taken as breakfast only or with dinner, with different local cuisine served daily. To get the most from your experience during your stay at a ryokan we recommend including dinner with your first night’s stay. The exterior of the ryokan may look modern, but the service is always traditional. To get a real flavour of the local culture an overnight stay in a ryokan is highly recommended during your holiday in Japan. Minshuku The Japanese equivalent of guest house type lodgings, Minshukus are family-run bed and breakfast farmhouses, with the rented rooms being part of the owners’ own home. They are often found in resorts like Kanazawa and Shirakawago, providing the ideal form of accommodation to get the true atmosphere from these picturesque locations. These comfortable and clean homes offer a unique cultural experience in a rustic atmosphere. Guest rooms come with tatami mat floors and a low table with a futon spread out to sleep on at night. The shared baths and toilets are all modern. Shokubo A truly unique experience staying at a Buddhist temple, with Buddhist vegetarian cuisine for dinner and breakfast. Food is served in a Japanese-style dining room. In the morning you are free to attend Buddhist morning services, the Goma fire ritual and meditation. Guests can also write Buddhist texts with a brush and ink on scrolls. Areas popular for temple stays include Nagano and Mount Koya. Machiya These traditional wooden townhouses are found throughout Japan and are typical in the historic capital of Kyoto. They are ideal for couples and families looking for that traditional experience with additional home comforts, and for those seeking luxury and personal space. Capsule Capsule hotels are also known as pod hotels. They were first developed in Osaka, in 1979 and are intended to provide basic accommodation at a low price. Space is limited but they offer a unique and fun experience. Capsule hotels can be found throughout Japan, but especially in larger cities such as Tokyo and Osaka. Sleeping arrangements are in same-sex corridors in compact single beds, usually without a window. Luggage has to be stored in a locker and cannot be kept in the capsule due to space constraints. Visit your local travel agent, or call 020 8543 8133 93

JAPAN ACCOMMODATION Tokyo: Tobu Hotel Levant 4★ Hakone: Hakone Hotel 4★ Hakone: Musashino Bekkan 5★ The hotel is located a short walk from JR On the shores of Lake Ashinoko, this hotel This charming traditional Japanese ryokan Kinshico Station. Complimentary WiFi is offers hot spring public baths, free WiFi, features a hot spring bath and Japanese available in public areas. Fabulous Sky Tree beautiful views and restaurants serving style rooms fitted with tatami flooring. Free views and modern Japanese meals can be French and Teppanyaki dishes. WiFi is available and Japanese dishes are enjoyed at Ren Restaurant and Bar. served. Kyoto: New Miyako Hotel 4★ Hiroshima: Granvia Hotel 4★ Hiroshima: Hotel New Hiroden 3★ A short walk from Kyoto Subway Station. Next to the JR Hiroshima Shinkansen Located in front of Hiroshima Station, a It features air-conditioned rooms with free Station, this hotel offers free WiFi, modern 15-minute walk from the Hiroshima Castle WiFi and modern amenities and offers 6 accommodation with a 3 Michelin star and 1.2 miles from Hiroshima Peace dining options. restaurant and beauty salon. Memorial Park. It features 3 dining options, massage services and rooms with free WiFi. Osaka: Granvia Hotel 4★ Kanazawa: Hotel Nikko Kanazawa 4★ Takayama: Hida Plaza 4★ Excellent location for touring Osaka, located Featuring panoramic views, several dining Just a 5-minute walk from Takayama directly above JR Osaka Train Station. The options and shops, the rooms are located on Station, Hida Hotel Plaza boasts a rooftop elegant rooms have great views of the city, higher floors, with stunning views. spa with mountain views, a heated pool free WiFi, and restaurant. and 7 dining options. Free WiFi is available throughout the property. Shirakawago: Minshuku Shimizu Yudanaka: Issa no Komichi Biyo no Mt Koya: Fukuchiin 3★ This traditional gassho-zukuri building has Yado 4★ This accommodation offers Japanese-style been converted into a guesthouse. It is Just a short walk from Yudanaka Station, with temple-lodging, in an historic Buddhist perfect for guests looking to experience easy access to the Snow Monkey Park. There temple. The Koyasan cable car is a 10 Japan in a very traditional way. is a large communal bath with Jacuzzi and minute drive away and there is a public bus an open-air bath. stop nearby. 94 Visit www.linkstravelandtours.co.uk for more details

JAPAN ACCOMMODATION Tour hotel Tour hotel Tour hotel Tokyo: Sunshine City Prince 3★ Tokyo: Shiba Park 3★ Atami: Resorpia Atami 3★ This hotel features 4 dining options, a spa Conveniently located close to the Tokyo The Resorpia Atami has rooms overlooking and a 24-hour convenience shop. It is Tower, Zojo-ji Temple and Atago Shrine. the Sagami Sea, with modern facilities and located in the Sunshine City complex, only The guest rooms all have flat-screen TV’s, Japanese-style seating area. There are also 900 yards from JR Ikebukuro Station. and free WiFi. There is a bar and restaurant public hot spring baths at the hotel. serving Chinese and Japanese dishes. Tour hotel Tour hotel Tour hotel Kawaguchiko: Fuji Premium Resort 3★ Kyoto: Elcient Kyoto Hotel 3★ Kyoto: Karasuma Hotel Kyoto 3★ This resort offers comfortable rooms with Conveniently situated, the guest rooms are Offering easy access to transport links, the modern amenities and a restaurant serving simply furnished with modern amenities Karasuma Kyoto Hotel provides comfortable breakfast and dinner buffets with Japanese including air conditioning. A Western and rooms with TV and air conditioning. There and Western cuisine. Japanese breakfast buffet is served. is also a bar, coffee shop and a restaurant. Tour hotel Tour hotel Tour hotel Hiroshima: The Royal Park Hotel Osaka: Hotel Elsereine 3★ Osaka: Dai-ichi Hotel 4★ Hiroshima Riverside 3★ Located in the centre of Umeda, featuring Located close to JR Osaka Station and the Just a mile from the city centre, guest rooms stylish accommodation, this non-smoking city’s best shopping and dining areas. have flat-screen TV and fridge. The hotel offers 3 dining options, and is a short Comfortable guest rooms feature city views restaurant serves European and Japanese walk from both Osaka and JR Kita-shinchi and modern amenities. dishes. Station. Tour hotel Tour hotel Tour hotel Takayama: Wat Hotel & Spa Takayama 3★ Takayama: Ouan 3★ Kanazawa: Hotel Kanazawa 3★ This hotel offers comfortable guestrooms Takayama Ouan features traditional This hotel is conveniently located a 1-minute with modern amenities, including flat-screen Japanese designs and tatami flooring walk from JR Kanazawa Train Station and TV and kettle. There is a hot spring bath and throughout. It offers a rooftop open-air bus terminal. It offers modern rooms with 3 restaurant. dining options and free internet in rooms. natural hot-spring bath, and a tasty homemade breakfast buffet. Visit your local travel agent, or call 020 8543 8133 95

Lhasa CHENGDU YANGTZE Yichang INDOCHINACHONGQUING Changsha IRRAWADDY Lijiang Guiyang RIVER GUILIN Dali Guangzh Mandalay 4 Bagan 13 SAPA 12 Inle Lake Luang LAOS HALONG BAY MYANMAR Prabang HANOI 16 Chiang Mai 14 Yangon Vientiane SOUTH CHINA SEA MEKONG RIVER HUE 5 DANANG THAILAND MEKONG HOI AN RIVER 15 11 VIETNAM Bangkok SIEM REAP Tonle Sap Lake 10 CAMBODIA Da Lat MEKONG 12 Nha Trang RIVER 67 Phnom Penh Phan Thiet 9 HO CHI MINH 3 17 Phu Quoc Mekong 8 GULF OF Delta Koh Samui THAILAND Con Dao 17 Krabi Phuket Indochina Travel Guide 96-99 Discover Cambodia 10 days 113 114 INDOCHINA GROUP TOURS Discover Laos 11 days 115 Grand Indochina 116 Essential Vietnam and Cambodia 19 days 100-101 Laos & Cambodia 13 days 117 Classic Vietnam 16 days 102-103 118 12 days 104-105 Vietnam & Thailand 17 days 119 INDOCHINA TAILOR-MADE 120 Vietnam Explorer Thailand Explorer 16 days 121 Vietnam Highlights 122 A Taste of Vietnam Halong Bay Cruises 123 Vietnam Family Tour Luxury Vietnam & Cambodia 106 Mekong River Cruises Authentic Cambodia 12 days 107 14 days 108 Pandaw Mekong Cruise 13 days 12 days 109 13 days 110 Pandaw Laos & China Cruise 17 days 18 days 111 09 days 112 Sapa, Mui Ne, Phu Quoc Nha Trang, Siem Reap, Luang Prabang Indochina Cultural Experiences 124-126 Indochina Accommodation 127-129 96

1 4 10 2 5 9 11 14 13 16 17 VIETNAM - An exotic land filled with 7 PHAN THIET - MUI NE -hThese LAOS - A thickly forested landscape and diverse scenery, from green rice fields in the traditional fishing villages offer a range of rugged mountains, combine with spectacular accommodation and white sandy beaches. natural attractions for the chance to experience north to the Mekong Delta in the south, with a the ‘Real Laos’. 8 CON DAO ISLANDS - Located off rich and fascinating culture. 13 LUANG PRABANG - Perched on the south-east coast of Vietnam, the Con 1 HANOI - Those looking for ancient Dao archipelago offers natural beauty the banks of the Mekong and encircled with more than 80% of the islands forming by mountains, it was the country’s former history, colonial legacy and a modern part of a marine and national park. capital. Do not miss the Khoung Si Waterfalls and the Pak Ou Caves. outlook can find it all in Hanoi. The Old 9 PHU QUOC - Located off the west 14 VIENTIANE - This delightfully friendly Quarter is a great place to soak up the coast of the Mekong Delta, made up of national forest land and beautiful white capital, studded with French mansions, unique atmosphere of this bustling city. sand beaches. This is the ideal place to bougainvillea-blooming streets and relax at the end of your holiday. steaming noodle stalls, has a unique 2 HALONG BAY - A UNESCO World atmosphere to enjoy. 10 NHA TRANG - A bustling seaside Heritage Site, where thousands of small THAILAND - One of Southeast Asia’s town with a sweeping crescent beach of islands dotted with beaches and grottoes, pristine sand. The hilltop Po Nagar Cham most popular destinations. You can find almost Towers provide fascinating insight into anything here: thick green jungles, crystal blue rise from turquoise waters. Vietnam’s history. waters and incredible food. 3 MEKONG DELTA - Lined with lush CAMBODIA - Probably most famous for 15 BANGKOK -hA cultural and food rice paddies and fish farms, the Delta’s ‘Angkor Wat’, Cambodia offers an insight into heaven. Cruise on the Chao Phraya River, ancient civilizations. With golden beaches, explore Buddhist Temples, ride a tuk-tuk, main attractions are the colourful river life, unspoilt forests and old colonial cities, it is an and enjoy a Muay Thai match. exciting holiday destination. floating markets and sleepy villages. 16 CHIANG MAI - A great base for 11 SIEM REAP -hThe temples of Angkor 4 SAPA - Established as a hill station by trekking and rafting trips to hill tribe are the epicentre of Khmer civilisation. villages. Besides its historic temples, you the French in 1922. Sapa is home to a Angkor Wat is the perfect fusion of can take delicious cooking classes to creative ambition and spiritual devotion, create the best Thai Curries. multitude of ethnic minorities and stunning representing heaven on earth. 17 BEACH RESORTS - The popular natural beauty. 12 PHNOM PENH - Set on the banks of beach islands of Phuket and Koh Samui, 5 HOI AN- This charming town retains a the Mekong River, this is one of Asia’s both have lively resort centres, undiscovered gems. It’s not just another beautiful natural scenery and first class sense of history in its narrow streets, filled city, it is an older Asia that many dreamed hotels. Krabi is home to spectacular of when planning their overseas trips. beaches and limestone cliffs. with former merchants’ houses, vibrant markets and the famous 400 year old Japanese Covered Bridge. 6 HO CHI MINH CITY - A vibrant city with a colonial charm, where you can find everything from designer shops to markets, and fine dining to street food. Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels and sail the Mekong Delta. Visit your local travel agent, or call 020 8543 8133 97

INDOCHINA TRAVEL GUIDE FLIGHTS For your convenience international flights are included in each tour. The group tour prices are based on departing London Heathrow with Cathay Pacific via Hong Kong. It is also possible to fly direct to Vietnam from London Heathrow with Vietnam Airlines. Regional departures from Manchester, Birmingham, Glasgow and Newcastle are also popular, with Emirates, Etihad Airways, and Qatar Airways being the recommended airlines. With a wide selection of routings available, please speak to one of our Personal Travel Advisors for more information. If you have already purchased your own international flights, we can put together a land only tour to fit in with your schedule. This will include our meet and greet service at the airport and return airport transfers. TRAINS VISA Unlike China and Japan, there isn’t a modern high-speed Visa fees are not included in your group tour cost. Visas for Laos network in Indochina. The trains run at a more leisurely pace and Cambodia can be obtained upon arrival for USD35. British giving you the chance to mix with local people and relax as the passport holders can enter Vietnam for up to 15 days without a glorious countryside passes by the window. Stations generally do visa for travel up to 30 June 2021. Your passport must be valid not have porters, so sometimes you may need to carry your own for a minimum of 6 months at the date of entry. You require a luggage. visa to enter Vietnam for periods of 15 days and longer, and for multiple entries. We can assist with visa applications through our TAXIS in-house service. Please note visa policies and fees are subject to Taking a taxi is a comfortable, easy and secure way of getting change. around in cities, big and small. Prices vary from place to place but overall they offer good value. It is recommended to carry a MONEY card with the name and address of your hotel on. Vietnam’s currency is the Dong (VND). Banknotes come in denominations ranging from 500 to 500,000. US Dollars are RIVER CRUISE widely accepted at major shops and restaurants, but smaller Some small group tours and tailor-made journeys offer river vendors and rural areas will only accept the Dong.Cambodia’s travel in their itinerary. From the 4* Bhaya Cruises on Halong currency is the Riel (KHR), but US Dollars are accepted almost Bay, to traditional boats on the Mekong Delta. everywhere, you may be given small change back in KHR. The Riel is non-convertible, so use them up while in the country as BICYCLE they cannot be exchanged outside. Laos’ currency is the Lao Hiring a bicycle is a fantastic way to get closer to the real heart Kip (LAK), in the larger cities and towns US Dollars and Thai of the country you are travelling in and a chance to meet some Baht are readily accepted. In smaller towns and villages, LAK is local people. We recommend taking a bike ride around the preferred. The Kip is non-convertible outside of Laos. Thailand’s countryside near Hoi An, which provides a fascinating insight currency is the Thai Baht (BHT). Banknotes come in into rural life and is ideal for exploring by bicycle. denominations of: 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1,000 Baht. 98 Visit www.linkstravelandtours.co.uk for more details

TIPPING INDOCHINA TRAVEL GUIDE While it may not be expected, tips can go a long way and are a they are tonal languages. English is likely to be understood in great way to show your appreciation. It is considered proper to the major tourist areas, some of the elders may be able to speak make a donation to temples, especially if the monks have shown more French than English, a reflection of the colonial past. you around. SMALL GROUP TOURS CUISINE Journey with like minded travellers, with the added benefit of Eating in Indochina is a delightful experience with spicy meat having an expert tour guide on hand throughout to introduce salads, sticky rice, noodles, spring rolls, curries, soups and fish you to the cultural sights and the many varied experiences these providing just some of the many tasty dishes on offer. countries offer. Our tours provide great value, giving you a variety of options and experiences based around the different Vietnamese cooking is a mixture of Vietnamese, Chinese and French durations and countries you wish to visit. The size of the group traditions, with many regional variations. Specialities include a meaty will be up to a maximum of 20 people sharing transport, local noodle soup locally known as pho, and spring rolls. Vietnamese coffee guides and meals with fellow passengers. There is a reasonable grown in the Central Highlands is served thick, strong and black. amount of walking involved on our tours, as well as sometimes a number of steps, so you should have good fitness levels to Traditionally, Laos food is spicy – Lao people will often add extra chillies; undertake a group tour. use heavy seasoning, with fish sauce often being used to flavour dishes. Laos cuisine blends Thai, Vietnamese and Chinese. Laap, a speciality, NAMED HOTELS is a dish of minced meat, fish or vegetables tossed in lime juice, garlic, Our small group tours come with carefully selected named 4* onions, powdered rice and chillies. accommodation that reflect the areas you are staying in. Khmer cuisine shares much with that of both Thailand and China, TOUR GUIDES although it tends to steer clear of excessive use of spices. Quality These include our local guides who cover one region where they restaurants are found in all areas that see mainstream tourism, while have expert local knowledge, so at each destination you will great value tasty food stalls are aplenty around the country. The fish have a new guide to greet you. Groups of 10 or more will have curry amok is a speciality cooked in a thick coconut curry sauce, a National Escort who will also accompany you throughout the wrapped in banana leaves and steamed. Popular and refreshing drinks tour in addition to the local guides. include fresh coconut juice and Angkor beer. Thai food is traditionally spicy. Most Thai food is prepared with fresh MEALS ingredients such as lemon grass and coriander and rice is eaten with Breakfast will normally be taken at the hotel, and it is usually a most meals. Popular fruits are papaya, jackfruit, rambutans and durians. buffet style with local and Western options. Meals are an important part of your holiday so you will have the assistance of LANGUAGE your guide to advise you on the many dishes available. Vietnamese, Khmer, Lao and Thai are the national languages and they are spoken by most of the population. Like Chinese, WEATHER Laos Vietnam The south-western monsoon arrives in Cambodia The north and central regions have two Laos (May to November), and is followed Cambodia has two monsoons a year. seasons - winter and summer. Winters by a dry period (November to May). The cool and relatively dry north-eastern can be cool and wet (November to April), Temperatures vary according to altitude monsoon (November to February), and while summers are hot (May to October), although March and April are the the south-western monsoon (May to when the region can be hit by typhoons. warmest months. October) is often humid and wet. April Temperatures in southern Vietnam are and May are the hottest months. constant, with a rainy season (May to October), and a dry season (November The Average Temperatures to April). February, March and April are the hottest months when temperatures can Temp °C Jan Feb Mar Apr May June July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec reach the high 30s (Celsius). Halong Bay 19 21 24 23 25 25 25 26 25 23 21 19 Thailand Thailand has a tropical climate and is Hanoi 17 17 20 24 25 29 29 28 27 25 21 18 generally very hot, particularly between March and May with April being the Sapa 11 11 15 17 20 22 24 24 21 17 14 12 hottest month (30°C/86°F). The monsoon season (May/June to October), Hue 20 20 24 26 28 28 28 29 27 25 23 20 is when the climate is hot and humid with torrential rains. Rain in the south typically Hoi An 22 22 25 26 28 28 28 29 28 26 24 22 continues until December. Nha Trang 23 25 26 27 28 28 28 28 28 27 26 24 Can Tho 25 26 27 28 28 27 27 27 27 27 27 25 Ho Chi Minh City 26 28 28 30 30 28 28 28 28 27 27 26 Dalat 17 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 18 18 17 Phu Quoc 26 26 27 29 29 28 27 27 27 27 28 27 Phan Thiet 24 24 26 27 28 28 27 27 27 26 26 24 Phnom Penh 26 28 28 29 29 29 29 29 28 28 26 25 Siem Reap 26 28 28 29 29 29 29 29 28 28 26 25 Luang Prabang 20 22 25 27 28 28 27 27 27 25 23 21 Bangkok 27 28 30 31 30 30 30 30 29 29 28 26 Phuket 27 28 29 29 29 29 28 28 27 28 27 27 Koh Samui 26 27 29 29 30 29 29 29 28 27 27 27 Visit your local travel agent, or call 020 8543 8133 99

Wat Xieng Thong, Luang Prabang GRAND INDOCHINA 19 DAY TOUR from £3,698 IRRAWADDY VIETNAM 1 NIGHT RIVER HALONG BAY The 19 day Grand Indochina tour starts in ........ Cambodia, discovering the sights of Phnom HANOI Penh and Siem Reap including the famous Angkor Wat temples! Cross the border into Laos 2 NIGHTS and visit the picturesque Kuang Si Waterfalls close to Luang Prabang. In Vietnam relax on a Luang Prabang cruise aboard a traditional junk on Halong Bay 3 NIGHTS and zigzag your way through the colourful markets of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Enjoy LAOS the delightfully atmospheric town of Hoi An, and catch a glimpse of the life in the local area MEKONG HUE as you explore the Mekong Delta by boat. RIVER 2 NIGHTS MEKONG ........ HOI AN RIVER ........2 NIGHTS 3 NIGHTS SIEM REAP Tonle Sap Lake CAMBODIA Phnom Penh Outbound ight Flight 1 NIGHT to London Drive Train HO CHI MINH ........ Cruise Inbound ight to 3 NIGHTS Phonm Penh Ben Tre Your 4★ Sample Accommodation Day 1 Fly to Phnom Penh Take a scheduled flight from the UK to Phnom Penh. Phnom Penh: King Grand Boutique Hotel Day 2 Arrive Phnom Penh Siem Reap: Saem Siem Reap Upon arrival in Phnom Penh, our local tour guide will meet you and Luang Prabang: Villa Santi Resort transfer you to the hotel. Rest of the day is at your leisure. Hanoi: Tirant Hotel Day 3 Phnom Penh Day Tour and to Siem Reap (BL) Halong Bay: Bhaya Classic Cruise Today starts at the Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda, where 5,000 Hue: Eldora Hotel silver tiles cover the floor, and continues to the National Museum Hoi An: Silk Luxury Hoi An Hotel & Spa built in traditional Khmer style. In the afternoon tour Tuol Sleng Ho Chi Minh City: Edenstar Saigon Hotel Prison and the Killing Fields – a reminder of the Khmer Rouge regime, giving an insight into how the country has developed. Accommodation will be as named above or similar Transfer to the airport for your evening flight to Siem Reap. Upon See pages 127 - 129 for details arrival, you will be met and transferred to the hotel. 100 Visit www.linkstravelandtours.co.uk for more details