Links Travel and Tours Brochure 2019-20

CHINA ACCOMMODATION CHINA – AccommodationGuilin: White House 4★ Yangshuo: Green Lotus Hotel 5★ Tour hotel Yangshuo: Tea Cozy BoutiqueFormer residence of Bai Chongxi, an Located within walking distance of West Situated by the banks of the Dragon River,admiral of Republic of China before 1949. Street, the hotel also enjoys scenic views. offering a back drop of the Karst peaks. OnlyLocated in Guilin Ronghu Scenic Area, just There are comfortable guestrooms, an a short distance from Yangshuo’s famousa few steps from Two Rivers and Four Lakes outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre as West Street. Its tea house provides a vastScenic Spot. well as Western and Chinese dining options. range of Chinese teas for you to explore.Chongqing: 88 Eling Park 4★ Tour hotel Hangzhou: Wuyang 4★ Tour hotel Sanya: Resort Intime 5★Located close to the Jialing River and Eling A romantic and relaxing hotel facing 7kmPark, the hotel offers rooms with modern Located in Xiacheng District of Hangzhou of sandy white beaches. With a splendidfacilities. There is a restaurant serving a seascape, lush tropical gardens, coconutselection of Chinese cuisine, as well as a and only a 10-minute drive from the famous palms and lotus ponds. Many of thebar, sauna and beauty centre. guestrooms have private balconies. West Lake. Westlake Yintai Shopping Mall is a 10 minute walk away and the Wushan Night Market a 14 minute walk way.Lhasa: The Tibet Cang Guyan 4★ Pingyao: Yide Hotel 4★ Lijiang: Wangfu Hotel Tour hotelLocated in downtown Lhasa and close Set within a traditional courtyard propertyto such popular Lhasa attractions as the with a 300-year history. Characterful Located in the old town, featuring traditionalJokhang Temple and Ramoche Temple. guestrooms have modern amenities andThe en suite rooms provide good views of there is also a restaurant. Chinese architecture and décor, theTibet and surrounding area. luxurious rooms combine oriental fixtures with modern facilities. The restaurant serves both Chinese and Western dishes.Lijiang: LUX Tea Horse Road 5★ Dali: Landscape Boutique Dali: The Linden Centre BoutiqueLocated in Lijiang’s ancient town, features Conveniently located in the heart of the In the foothills of the Himalayas, thetraditional Naxi architecture. Stages old city close to the Three Pagodas and the complex is graced with four courtyards andexceptional local experiences, providing South Gate. Its rooms are the best around, gardens. The rooms consist of customguests with an exclusive restaurant and bar. structured around several pretty courtyards. designed furniture built by local craftsmen.Visit your local travel agent, or call 020 8543 8133 51

YOUR JAPAN DESTINATIONS Kiso Valley and Tsumago Yudanaka The Kiso Valley, running through the Central Alps, formed part of an ancient trade route This hot spring resort, dating back hundreds of called the Kisoji, which was later amalgamated years, is the ideal location when visiting the famous into the Nakasendo Way. Along the valley, a Snow Monkeys just 10 minutes away by bus. An few post towns, including Tsumago, have been overnight stay in a ryokan with onsen (hot spring) preserved to look as they did when they served is the perfect way to relax and enjoy this traditional travellers of the Nakasendo. hot spring resort. Nakasendo Way Matsumoto The Nakasendo Way is an ancient walking trail Matsumoto, the second largest city in Nagano Prefecture, is home to that linked Kyoto and Tokyo during Japan’s one of the most beautiful attractions in Japan, the majestic Edo period. It was the ‘road through the Matsumoto Castle, and is also the perfect base for climbers and mountains’ trodden by feudal lords, samurai tours into the Japanese Alps. Matsumoto has plenty of good cafes and merchants. Along the route were 69 post and restaurants to choose from, as well as many fascinating towns where travellers could stop and rest for traditional crafts. In summer, the Taiko (Japanese drum) Festival and the night, many of them still preserved, the Takigi-Noh are held at the castle. giving an intriguing glimpse into Japan’s past. Takayama HIROSHIMA With its scenic mountain backdrop and riverside setting, Takayama, known Yamaguchi as Hida-Takayama, is surrounded by nature. The beautifully preserved old town is filled with Edo-style streets, wooden merchants’ houses, coffee Nagasaki houses, sake breweries and craft shops. The Takayama Festival, held in spring and autumn, is considered one of Japan’s best. Vibrant morning KYUSHU markets, hillside shrines and a laid-back populace add to the town’s allure. It should be a high priority on any visit to Central Honshu. For those OKINAWA enjoying a tailor-made journey allow at least two days to enjoy Takayama, it is a wonderful place that is easy to explore on foot or by bicycle. Shirakawago Registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Shirakawago and neighbouring Gokayama are situated at the foot of Mt. Haku-san, surrounded by rice fields, with the Shogawa River glistening nearby. These tranquil mountain villages are famous for their traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses with steep thatched roofs. Kanazawa Kanazawa, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known as one of the most authentic castle towns. It boasts many historic residences, as well as modern museums and fresh food markets. Kenrokuen, one of the most beautiful gardens in Japan, and the Higashi Chaya district filled with traditional teahouses hosted by Geisha, are among the main attractions. Hiroshima Home to two World Heritage Sites. The A-Bomb Dome at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial is the most symbolic building in the city, where the first atomic bomb was dropped. It represents people’s prayers for lasting peace. Just an hour away is Miyajima - the name means ‘Shrine Island’ in Japanese, the island is most famous for its giant Torii Gate which appears to float on water. Okinawa Further south, the tropical island chain of Okinawa boasts amazing coral reefs, white sand beaches and a fascinating cultural heritage that is a mix between Japan and south-east Asia.52

Hokkaido JAPAN – Travel Guide HOKKAIDO Kushiro Hokkaido is home to vast expanses of unspoiled mountain scenery and abundant wildlife, a nature Sapporo lover’s paradise. The cool temperate summer brings spectacular blooms, while world-class ski resorts Aomori mean it’s also a great winter destination. Niigata Nikko Yudanaka Nikko Located along Japan’s Romantic Road, in the mountains north of Tokyo, and home to theKanazawa Nagano picturesque Nikko National Park. Known for its Shirakawago Matsumoto UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Nikko Toshogu Shrine, Japan’s most lavishly decorated shrine, Takayama TOKYO the mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the beautiful Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji.KYOTO Nagoya Mt Fuji Hakone Tokyo OSAKA The economic and fashion capital of Asia, it is the world’s largest metropolitan area with over 35 Nara million people. Home to thousands of purikuraMt Koya (sticker picture) machines, pachinko parlours, karaoke shops, and even cat cafes. Tokyo Shirahama encapsulates Japan’s modernity and eccentricity at its finest. Some of the unmissable attractionsKumano Kodo include the Imperial Palace and Sensoji Temple in the Asakusa neighbourhood.Kumano Kodo is a network of pilgrimage trailsthrough the southern Kansai region. The Kodo Kyotohave been in use for over 1,000 years, and area UNESCO World Heritage Site. The routes Home to a treasure trove of UNESCO-listed templesdeveloped to link the sacred areas on the Kii and shrines, and Japan’s former capital, serving asPeninsula; Hongu Taisha, Hayatama Taisha and such for roughly 1,000 years. Famous for itsNachi Taisha. flavourful green tea, traditional delicacies, and its historical backdrop, Kyoto is a must visit for anybody wishing to explore historic Japan. You may meet some ‘Maiko,’ young dancing entertainers, who walk in long hanging-sleeved kimono’s, in the Gion district. Mount Fuji Known to the locals as ‘Fuji-san’, it is Japan’s largest and most iconic mountain. Rising above the clouds, a stunning 3,776 metres high, this inactive volcano has provided the spiritual basis for the country since ancient times. Snow-covered tranquillity in winter, vitality and energy in summer, seasonal changes glorify this national treasure. From near or far, from plane or train, one cannot look at Mount Fuji without marvelling at its beauty. The mountain is officially open for climbing during July and August. Hakone One of Japan’s most popular hot spring resorts is situated less than two hours from Tokyo. Hakone is perfect for a 1 or 2 night stay in a ryokan with onsen, whilst enjoying Hakone National Park and stunning views of Mount Fuji. 53

JAPAN TRAVEL GUIDEJapan is a unique destination on many different fronts including the country’s vast range of temperatures on offer throughoutthe year. From the powder snow found on the ski slopes in Hokkaido during the winter period, to the subtropical climates inthe southern islands including Okinawa and Ishigaki, Japan is truly an all-year round destination and has something specialto offer at any one time. To witness spectacular colour, a favourite is the celebrated cherry blossom season in April and koyoleaf viewing from October to early December (regions vary). These are very popular times to travel so it is advised to bookearly to avoid disappointment.Spring (March – May)This is a very popular time to visit Japan due to the lovelyweather and Japans’ famous cherry blossom. The buds firstopen on the south islands and work through the country rightup to the northern island of Hokkaido.“Golden week” takesplace at the end of April / beginning of May and is a periodof national holiday. Accommodation and transportation is verybusy during this period. Summer (June – August) During the summertime in Japan, certain areas can be hot and humid, especially in the larger cities. It is also a time where many of the colourful festivals take place, offering amazing experiences. From the beginning of June, the rainy season (tsuyu) visits most parts of Japan except Hokkaido, and typically ends in the first half of July. Summer is when Mount Fuji opens for climbing.Autumn (September – November)Autumn is a very pleasant time to visit Japan as the weatherremains warm, places are less crowded, and the autumncolours sparkle across many parts of the country from lateOctober to early November. The maple and ginkgo trees turnall shades of red, yellow, brown and orange, enhancing thealready spectacular vistas. Winter (December – February) The highland and northern parts of Japan enjoy large snowfalls, providing perfect powder snow for skiers and snowboarders. The Nagano and Hokkaido areas are especially renowned as winter-wonder ski resorts. New year is one of Japan’s three major travel seasons for domestic travel. January and February are ideal touring months due to excellent visibility, fewer crowds and lower prices. Average Temperatures °C Sapporo Spring Summer Autumn Winter Tokyo Kyoto 7 °C 20 °C 12 °C -3 °C 16 °C 25 °C 18 °C 6 °CHiroshima 14 °C 27 °C 18 °C 6 °COkinawa 13 °C 29 °C 17 °C 5 °C 23 °C 30 °C 27 °C 20 °C54 Visit www.linkstravelandtours.co.uk for more details

JAPAN – Travel GuideInternational FlightsWe work with a wide range of airlines including British Airways, Emirates, Cathay Pacific, Singapore Airlines, KLM and AirFrance. Domestic departures and stopovers can also be included. Simply provide us with your preferred UK departure airportand we will arrange your ideal holiday to suit your wishes.Japan Rail PassOnly available to visitors to Japan, and must be pre booked, the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass)offers excellent value for money if you are planning to visit several cities during your timehere. The JR Pass is issued by Japan Railway (JR), is valid for 7, 14 or 21 day durations andprovides you with unlimited travel on Japan’s extensive travel network. This includes the worldfamous Shinkansen Bullet Train (excluding Nozomi class trains), the entire Japan Railwaysservice, a selection of buses and ferries including to Hiroshima and Miyajima Island. Basedon your travel preferences, further details about your JR Pass are provided at the time ofquotation.Public Buses and Chartered CoachesTravelling by public bus or by chartered coaches are convenient and comfortable ways oftravelling in Japan, especially in the mountainous regions. Your quote will highlight how bestto see the area and the mode of transport that works best for your tour.TaxisTaxis are widely available and can deliver customers to addresses written in Japanese or on business cards. If the red light inthe lower left corner of the windshield is lit, then the cab is free and it can be flagged down.Car HireWith the convenience of driving on the left, renting a car in Japan offers a new type of adventure, allowing you to visit themore remote locations. Many road signs are in English and cars have SAT NAV as standard. Please visit our Self-DriveHolidays on pages 74-75 for further details on car hire in Japan.Luggage ForwardingThis reliable service is common practice in Japan whereby you can forward your luggage to your next accommodation or toany of Japan’s main airports, giving you the convenience of travelling to more remote locations with just an overnight bag.Please enquire for further details.Walking and CyclingMany of our tours involve walking as it is the most suitable and more authentic way tosee attractions. Japan’s excellent public transport is used on select days during some ofthe tours so walking is needed to get from hotels, stations and places of interest. Guidedcycling tours are available in most cities. These leisurely rides provide excellent viewingopportunities not found with other modes of transportation. For the more adventurous trysome of the cycling routes found in the more remote and mountainous regions.Visit your local travel agent, or call 020 8543 8133 55

JAPAN GROUP TOURS We have devised a range of group tours, semi-escorted tours and tailor-made journeys to make the planning of your holiday to Japan simple and easy to follow. If you are unsure of what your preferences are, then please feel free to call our specialist team on 020 8543 8133 and they will be pleased to discuss your plans and offer guidance. The following information provides details of our Group Tours. Excellent Value Our fully escorted group tours are led by English speaking guides who have a passion for the country. Discover Japan and its many wonders with like-minded travellers in our selection of group tours that range from 10 days to 15 days. You will find breakfast is included, along with a selection of lunches and dinners. These group tours will incorporate many of the highlights Japan has to offer, discovering some truly memorable places. I want to say how much I enjoyed the tour. The other participants were most pleasant. The Japanese guides were excellent and I would definitely recommend that you employ them again. They took us to places and to meet fascinating people that we would never have found on our own. Having a guide who speaks Japanese and English is invaluable. Maureen56 Visit www.linkstravelandtours.co.uk for more details

Your Group JAPAN – Group ToursOur group tours normally run at a leisurely pace and offer greatvalue. We cater for all ages, solo travellers, couples, families andsmall groups of friends. Our group tours normally operate withmaximum 25 people (30 people for the Cherry Blossom tour). YourEnglish speaking guides will escort you through Japan’s history andculture, whilst you experience a variety of amazing cuisine. Some ofthe day excursions involve walking and climbing steps so a moderatelevel of fitness is preferred to get the most out of your group tour. Thefixed itineraries have set departure dates. You will find breakfast isincluded, along with a selection of lunches and dinners.AccommodationEach group tour featured in this brochure is based on carefullyselected standard accommodation, a sample of which can be foundon the individual tour pages. We select from a range ofaccommodation for our tours, the style of which can vary from onedestination to the next. It is also worth noting that room sizes in Japantend to be more compact, especially in the larger cities. Theseoffer both comfort and value. Also, sometimes included is the uniqueexperience of an overnight stay in traditional Japaneseaccommodation (ryokan / Minshuku / Shokubo see pages 96-97)along with the opportunity to experience a Japanese hot spring. Whenstaying in traditional Japanese accommodation, beds will usually befuton-style. If you would like to upgrade to superior or deluxeaccommodation, then please call our experts for further details.TransportationDepending on the nature of the tour, transportation will includeair-conditioned coaches, public transport and trains.GuidesAll of our guides speak English and are fully qualified, allowing you tobenefit from their knowledge and experiences, whilst introducing youto local cultures. They will be on hand to make sure your introductionto Japan is a truly memorable one.Extend Your HolidayYou can add extra nights at the beginning or end of the tour. If you have more time then you canexperience another region after the tour has finished.International FlightsSome of our tour rates include international flights. Where the prices are shown separately, please callfor latest availability, price and most suitable flight schedule from your preferred regional airport.Visit your local travel agent, or call 020 8543 8133 57

ESSENTIAL JAPAN 10 DAY TOURKimono and geta traditional Japanese footwear Osaka Night CruiseThe Essential Japan tour is perfect for the first JAPANtime traveller to Japan. Enjoy spending time inthe vibrant capital, Tokyo. Take a journey to the Inbound flight5th station at Mt. Fuji, marvel at Japan’s highestmountain with its single, volcanic snowy peak. The Takayama TOKYO to Tokyocultural city of Kyoto is where you will discoverbeautiful gardens, ancient temples and traditional ........ 2 NIGHTStownhouses. Learn about Hiroshima and its pastand present. Visit Itsukushima Shrine, said to be K2 YNIOGH.TT.SO................M.t.F.u.ji Hakoneone of the three most beautiful sights in Japan, 1 NIGHTand try delicious Japanese cuisine, Takoyaki(octopus ball) and Okonomiyaki (savoury pancake) 1 NIGHT 2 NIGHTSin Osaka, your final destination. HIROSHIMA OSAKA Nara Outbound flight to UK KYUSHU ........ Flight Drive Train Cruise Day 1 UK to Tokyo Take a scheduled flight from your regional UK airport to Tokyo. Day 2 Arrive Tokyo Arrive at Tokyo’s Narita or Haneda International Airports where you will be welcomed by our representative and transferred to yourYour Sample Accommodation accommodation. The rest of day is at leisure.Tokyo: Tobu Hotel Levant Tokyo Day 3 Tokyo Tour (BL)Mount Fuji: Motosu View Hotel Start the day with a visit to Tokyo Tower, which is the second tallest self-supporting steel tower in Japan. Experience a traditionalKyoto: El Inn Kyoto Japanese tea ceremony followed by a Japanese-style lunch. See theHiroshima: Oriental Hotel Hiroshima Imperial Palace Plaza and enjoy a cruise in Tokyo Bay for a uniqueOsaka: Shin-Osaka Esaka Tokyu REI view of the city from the water. Visit Asakusa Temple and Nakamise Shopping Street, said to be one of the oldest shopping streets in Japan.58 Visit www.linkstravelandtours.co.uk for more details

Day 4 Mt. Fuji and Hakone (BLD) JAPAN – Group ToursYour main luggage will be transferred fromTokyo to Kyoto. Pack a small bag for your Hiroshima in two hours. On arrival visit the century and one of Japan’s most famousstay at Mount Fuji. View the scenery of rural Peace Memorial Park. The Genbaku-dome landmarks. Enjoy a river cruise on the AquaJapan as you drive towards Mt. Fuji and (The Atomic Bomb Dome) is the symbol of Liner to view the city panorama from theHakone. Take a pleasure boat cruise across Hiroshima, the city that advocates peace in water. In the afternoon transfer to Nara andthe peaceful Lake Ashi, relaxing in the the world. It is part of the Hiroshima Peace visit Todaji Temple (Great Buddha), thepicturesque and serene natural beauty of Memorial Park and was designated a picturesque Nara Park, home to hundredsthis crater lake. Ride the Owakudani UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. of freely roaming deer and the KasugaRopeway, an aerial lift with spectacular While all structures vanished in the atomic Taisha Shrine. Return to Osaka.views of the surrounding areas including bomb explosion, only this buildingMount Fiji and Ashinoko Lake. Lunch at a miraculously remained standing. Day 10 Fly to UK (B)local restaurant, and marvel at the Time at leisure before being transferred topanoramic view from the mountains 5th Day 8 Hiroshima and Miyajima to Kansai International Airport for your flight tostation about 2,300 metres above sea level. Osaka (BL) London Heathrow.(Subject to weather conditions). Transfer to After breakfast leave your accommodationyour accommodation where tonight’s dinner for a sightseeing tour of Miyajima with a EXTEND YOUR HOLIDAYwill be served. ferry ride. Visit the Itsukushima Shrine Why not extend your holiday with a beach situated on Itsukushima Island, popularlyDay 5 Mount Fuji, Nagoya and Kyoto (B) known as Miyajima, south-western stay in Okinawa, city stopover in HongAfter breakfast travel by coach towards Hiroshima. It is a striking sight where the Kong or Singapore, or spend time relaxingKyoto. Pausing in Nagoya, visit the lovely mountains, sea and red shrine buildingsTokugawa Japanese Garden, a traditional blend in harmony, and the entire island is with a beach stopover in Dubai.garden with a lake, rock formations and designated as a historic site. It is one of the Contact us for more detailswaterfalls. Continue to the fascinating three most beautiful sites in Japan, alongToyota Museum which commemorates the with Matsushima in Miyagi andhistory of the automobile. Finally you will Ama-no-hashidate in Kyoto. After lunch,arrive in the cultural city of Kyoto and your transfer to Osaka by bullet train, and onaccommodation. arrival transfer to your accommodation.Day 6 Kyoto (B) Day 9 Osaka and Nara (B)Today there is a day tour of Kyoto. Places of On a morning tour of Osaka, visit theinterest that you will visit include Nijo Castle impressive Osaka Castle, built in the 16thwhich was built in 1603, and the beautifulKinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion), a zen Departures and Pricestemple where the top two floors are 2019 and 2020completely covered in gold leaf. In theafternoon spend time at the Heian Jingu Depart Return Price includes:Shrine, home of perhaps the world’s most International flights, accommodation,authentic and exquisite Japanese Garden. 06/05/19 -- 15/05/19 from £3,499 English speaking guides, transfers,See the Sanjusangendo Temple, a from £3,499 bullet trains, baggage transfers for oneBuddhist temple filled with 1,001 statues of 09/09/19 -- 18/09/19 from £3,599 piece, meals as specifiedKannon, the Goddess of mercy, and visit from £3,799 (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner).the Kiyomizu-dera Temple, which has a 14/10/19 -- 23/10/19 from £3,799main hall on a steep slope with a wooden from £3,699 Price excludes:platform supported by pillars, from which a 04/11/19 -- 13/11/19 from £3,699 Local tips, personal spending and travelpanoramic view of Kyoto can be enjoyed. insurance. 06/04/20 -- 15/04/20Day 7 Kyoto to Hiroshima (B)Your main luggage will be transferred 20/04/20 -- 29/04/20from Kyoto to Osaka. Pack a small bagfor your stay in Hiroshima. After breakfast, 11/05/20 -- 20/05/20depart Kyoto by bullet train and arrive in Single supplement from £550 Land only from £2,649Visit your local travel agent, or call 020 8543 8133 59

AMAZING JAPAN 14 DAY TOURMount Fuji AomoriA 14 day tour that explores the very best of Japan’s JAPANcultural, natural and UNESCO locations. Journey onthe famous bullet train. Sample some of the 1 NIGHT Outboundlocal specialties including fresh sushi, Hida Beef and Kanazawa flight to UKSake. Witness Mount Fuji and wander in the cultural ............................city of Kyoto exploring the renowned Golden ........Takayama...... TOKYOPavillion. Other tour highlights include the 250 yearold gassho-zukuri farmhouses in Shirakawago, ...2.N.I.G.H.T.S.... 3 NIGHTSvisiting samurai houses in Kanazawa, the deer parkin Nara and the “floating” Itsukushima Shrine in 2 NIGHTS ..M..t.F.uji Hakone InboundMiyajima. You will also see the impressive castles in flight to Tokyoboth Osaka and Matsumoto. KYO.T.O.............. 1 NIGHT HIROSHIMA OSAKA Nara 1 NIGHT Miyajima 2 NIGHTS ........ Flight Drive Train Cruise Your Sample Accommodation Day 1 UK to Tokyo Take a scheduled flight from your regional airport to Tokyo.Tokyo: Tobu Hotel Levant TokyoMount Fuji: Motosu View Hotel Day 2 Arrive TokyoKyoto: El Inn Kyoto Arrive at Tokyo’s Narita or Haneda International Airports where youHiroshima: Oriental Hotel Hiroshima will be welcomed by our representative and transferred to yourOsaka: Shin-Osaka Esaka Tokyu REI accommodation. The rest of the day is at leisure.Kanazawa: Mystays Kanazawa CastleTakayama: Route Inn Grantia Hida Takayama Day 3 Tokyo Tour (BL) Start the day with a visit to the Tokyo Tower, the second tallest self-supporting steel tower in Japan. Experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony followed by a Japanese-style lunch. See the Imperial Palace Plaza and enjoy a cruise on Tokyo Bay for a unique view of the city. Visit Asakusa Temple and Nakamise Shopping Street, said to be one of the oldest shopping streets in Japan.60 Visit www.linkstravelandtours.co.uk for more details

Day 4 Mt. Fuji and Hakone (BLD) in 1996. While all structures vanished in the Day 12 Takayama (BD) JAPAN – Group ToursYour main luggage will be transferred from atomic bomb explosion, only this building Morning visit to Matsuri no Mori, a museumTokyo to Kyoto. Pack a small bag for your miraculously remained standing. showcasing items and memorabilia from thestay at Mount Fuji. Gaze at the rural scenery Takayama Festival, and Takayama-Jinya,as you drive towards Hakone. Take a Day 8 Hiroshima and Miyajima to a former government out-post. Finally, visitpleasure boat cruise across peaceful Lake Osaka (BL) Hida Takayama, to explore the fascinatingAshi. Ride the Owakudani Ropeway, an After breakfast, depart your accommodation Kamisannomachi Street with its narrowaerial lift with spectacular views of Mount for a ferry ride and sightseeing tour of streets lined with wooden merchants housesFuji and Ashinoko Lake. Enjoy lunch at Miyajima, where you will visit the dating from the Edo period.a local restaurant and a panoramic view Itsukushima Shrine. It is a breathtaking sightfrom Fuji’s 5th station, about 2,300 metres where the mountains, sea and red shrineabove sea level (Subject to weather buildings blend in harmony. It is one of theconditions). Transfer to your three most beautiful sites in Japan, alongaccommodation where tonight’s dinner will with Matsushima in Miyagi andbe served. Ama-no-hashidate in Kyoto. After lunch, transfer to Osaka by bullet train and on to your accommodation.Day 5 Mount Fuji, Nagoya and Kyoto (B) Day 9 Osaka and Nara (B) Day 13 Takayama to Matsumoto toAfter breakfast travel by coach towards Enjoy a morning tour of Osaka including a Tokyo (B)Kyoto. Pausing in Nagoya, visit the lovely visit to the impressive Osaka Castle, built in Travel to Tokyo stopping en-route atTokugawa Japanese Garden, a traditional the 16th century and one of Japan’s most Matsumoto to visit the majestic castle, onegarden with a lake, rock formations and famous landmarks. Enjoy a river cruise on of the most notable historic castles in Japan,waterfalls. Continue to the engrossing the Aqua Liner for a city panorama from the known for its unusual black exterior andToyota Museum which charts the history of water. In the afternoon continue to Nara often referred to as “Crow Castle”.the automobile. Finally you will arrive in the and visit the Todaji Temple (Great Buddha), Continue to Tokyo for an overnight stay.cultural city of Kyoto and your the picturesque Nara Park, home toaccommodation. hundreds of freely roaming deer and the Day 14 Fly to UK (B) Kasuga Taisha Shrine, before returning to Transfer to the airport for the flight to theDay 6 Kyoto (B) Osaka. UK.Today you will have a day tour of Kyoto.Places of interest that you will visit include Day 10 Osaka to Kanazawa (B)the historic Nijo Castle, and the beautiful Morning departure for Kanazawa. In theKinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion), a zen afternoon visit Kenrokuen Garden and thetemple where the top two floors are Kanazawa Museum, your tour also includescompletely covered in gold leaf. In the a visit to some traditional Samurai housesafternoon be enthralled at the Heian Jingu on a walk through the old district. OvernightShrine, home of perhaps the world’s most in Kanazawa.authentic and exquisite Japanese Garden.See the Sanjusangendo Temple, a Buddhist Day 11 Kanazawa to Shirakawago to EXTEND YOUR HOLIDAYtemple filled with 1,001 statues of Takayama (BD)Kannon, the Goddess of mercy. Also visit Travel to UNESCO World Heritage-listed Why not extend your holiday with a beachthe Kiyomizu-dera Temple, for a panoramic Shirakawago, famous for the traditional stay in Okinawa, city stopover in Hongview of Kyoto from the wooden platform in gassho-zukuri farmhouses, which are morethe main hall. than 250 years old. Continue to Takayama Kong or Singapore, or spend time relaxing and check in to your accommodation for a with a beach stopover in Dubai.Day 7 Kyoto to Hiroshima (B) two-night stay, where dinner will be served Contact us for more detailsYour main luggage will be transferred from each night.Kyoto to Osaka. Pack a small bag for yourstay in Hiroshima. After breakfast, take the Departures and Pricestwo hour bullet train from Kyoto to 2019 and 2020Hiroshima. On arrival visit the PeaceMemorial Park, home of the Depart Return Price includes:Genbaku-dome (The Atomic Bomb Dome) 06/05/19 -- 19/05/19 from £4,699 International flights, accommodation,and the symbol of Hiroshima, a city that 09/09/19 -- 22/09/19 from £4,699 English speaking guides, transfers,advocates peace in the world. It was 14/10/19 -- 27/10/19 from £4,799 bullet trains, baggage transfers for onedesignated a UNESCO World Heritage Site 04/11/19 -- 17/11/19 from £4,999 piece, meals as specified (B=Breakfast, 06/04/20 -- 19/04/20 from £4,999 L=Lunch, D=Dinner). 20/04/20 -- 03/05/20 from £4,899 11/05/20 -- 24/05/20 from £4,799 Price excludes: Local tips, personal spending and travel Single supplement from £795 insurance. Land only from £3,849Visit your local travel agent, or call 020 8543 8133 61

CHERRY BLOSSOM TOUR 13 DAY TOUR HOKKAIDO Kushir SapporoJapanese White-eye bird AomoriA 13 day tour that explores the very best of Japan’s Inboundculture and nature, during the popular cherry flight to Tokyoblossom season. Journey on the famous bullet train,stay in some traditional accommodation, and Kanazawa Shirakawagosample the local specialties including fresh sushiand Hida Beef. Witness Mount Fuji, spend time 1 NIGHTin the cultural city of Kyoto and visit the beautiful ................Japanese Alps region. Other tour highlights include 1 NIGHT TOKYOa visit to a wasabi farm and a sake brewery as well Mt Fujias Himeji Castle, one of the most famous castles in Takayama........ ........ 2 NIGHTSJapan. 2 NIGHTS 2 NIGHTS ........ KYOTO Hakone HIROSHIMA ........ Nara 1 NIGHT Outbound OSAKA flight to UK 2 NIGHTS ........ Flight Drive Train Cruise Day 1 UK to Tokyo Take a scheduled flight from your regional UK airport to Tokyo. Your Sample Accommodation Day 2 Arrive Tokyo Arrive at Narita Airport where you will be welcomed by ourTokyo: Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba OKINAWArepresentative and transferred to your accommodation. The restKawaguchiko: Jiragonno Fuji No Yakata of the day is at leisure.Takayama: Ryu Resort & SpaKanazawa: Ana Crowne Plaza Day 3 Tokyo Sightseeing (B)Kyoto: Monterey Kyoto This morning, after breakfast, enjoy a sightseeing tour of Tokyo.Hiroshima: Grand Prince Hotel Visit Tsukiji Market, the world’s largest Fish Market, and continueOsaka: Hotel Vischio Osaka to Asakusa Kannon Temple where legend has it that fisherman brothers discovered an image of Kannon (the goddess of mercy) in the Sumida River around 1,370 years ago and were inspired62 Visit www.linkstravelandtours.co.uk for more details

to enshrine it. This is followed by a stroll Day 9 Kyoto and Nara Day tour (B) transfer to Osaka by bullet train. On arrival, JAPAN – Group Toursalong Nakamise Shopping Street. Visit theImperial Palace for a photo opportunity, and After breakfast leave the hotel for a you will visit Osaka Castle for a photoon to Shinjuku Gyoen Park, one of the bestcherry blossom viewing spots in Tokyo. The sightseeing tour of Kyoto and Nara. Visit opportunity and the Shinsaibashi area,last stop of the day will be the Tokyo Tower,which is the second tallest self-supporting the Daibutsuden (Great Buddha Hall) at the before checking into your hotel.steel tower in Japan, opened in 1958. Todai-ji Temple, one of the world’s largestDay 4 Tokyo to Hakone to Mt Fuji (BD)Visit Koishikawa Korakuen, a seventeenth wooden buildings and one of the best known Day 12 Osaka to Himeji and Kobe tocentury botanical garden maintained by theUniversity of Tokyo, featuring many species temples in Japan, enshrining a gigantic Osaka (B)of tree and plant, as well as a smallJapanese landscape garden, particularly nice bronze statue of Buddha. Next you will visit After breakfast at the hotel, leave for Himejiduring the cherry blossom season. Travel toHakone by coach. Enjoy a short cruise on Nara Deer Park where the deer roam freely, Castle, one of the most ancient andLake Ashi and continue to the OwakudaniRopeway. Tonight you will stay at traditional and you can feed or pet them (special food is well-known castles in Japan. Continue toJapanese ryokan where, after dinner, youcan enjoy a complimentary hot spring spa. sold in the park grounds). Return to Kyoto in Kobe China Town, also known asDay 5 Fuji to Takayama (BD) the afternoon for the celebrated Kinkaku-ji Nankinmachi and Motomachi, a lively areaStart your trip to Mt. Fuji. Climb up to the5th station by coach, about 2,300 metres Temple (Golden Pavilion), followed by a perfect for shopping, gourmet food andabove sea level. Your tour continues toTakayama for a two night stay with dinner Kimono show at the Nishijin Textile Centre. nightspots in the centre of Kobe. Enjoy someeach evening, stopping en-route to visit theDaio Wasabi Farm, to see how this famous Return to the hotel. free time here for lunch (at own expense),Japanese ingredient is grown. and a wander around the Harbour area inDay 6 Takayama (BD)After breakfast, enjoy a full day city tour Day 10 Kyoto to Hiroshima (B) Kobe, before moving on to a Sake Brewery inincluding visits to Takayama-Jinya, Matsurino Mori, Kamisannomachi Street and the Your main luggage will be transferred from the Nada District. There were three reasonsFolk Craft Museum. Kyoto to Osaka, so pack a small bag for for the development of Sake brewing in theDay 7 Takayama to Shirakawago toKanazawa (B) your stay in Hiroshima. After breakfast, visit 18th century that made the name of NadaTravel to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Shirakawago, famous for the 250 year the Heian Jingu Shrine, home of perhaps known throughout Japan. One was theold, traditional gasshou-zukuri farmhouses.Continue to Kanazawa for an overnight stay. the world’s most authentic and exquisite discovery of Miya-mizu, excellent waterDiscover authentic Samurai houses beforetouring the Kenrokuen Garden and Japanese Garden. Continue to Nijo Castle, quality for making Sake; two, theKanazawa 21st Century Museum. which was built in the early 17th century, production of high quality rice, an ingredientDay 8 Kanazawa to Kyoto (B)Morning departure from Kanazawa for before leaving Kyoto by the bullet train to in Sake; and three, a convenient location forKyoto, Japan’s ancient capital. The first stopwill be the stunning Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Hiroshima. Why not try a bento box aboard transportation by sea. Return to your hotelbuilt in the hills east of Kyoto 780 yearsago, to marvel at the wonderful views of the the train for your lunch. On arrival visit the in Osaka.city. This will be followed by a trip to Gion,Kyoto’s renowned Geisha district and Peace Memorial Park and Genbaku-domepopular nightspot, where visitors canexperience authentic local life. At the end of (The Atomic Bomb Dome), the symbol of Day 13 Fly to UK (B)the day, check into your hotel. Hiroshima, a city that advocates world Day at leisure until your transfer to Kansai peace. It was designated a UNESCO World International Airport by airport shuttle bus. Heritage Site in 1996. While all structures Fly to your regional airport in the UK. vanished in the atomic bomb explosion, only this building miraculously remained standing. Check into your hotel for an overnight stay. Day 11 Hiroshima to Miyajima to Osaka (B) After breakfast leave the hotel for a ferry ride and sightseeing tour of Miyajima to visit the Itsukushima Shrine. It is a picturesque sight where the mountains, sea and red shrine buildings blend in harmony. The entire island is designated as a historic site, and is one of the three most beautiful sites in Japan, along with Matsushima in Miyagi and Ama-no-hashidate in Kyoto. After lunch, Departures and Prices 2019 and 2020 Depart Return Price includes: International flights, accommodation, 27/03/19 -- 08/04/19 from £4,399 English speaking guides, transfers, bullet train, baggage transfers for one piece, 03/04/19 -- 15/04/19 from £4,299 meals as specified (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner). 25/03/20 -- 06/04/20 from £4,549 01/04/20 -- 13/04/20 from £4,449 Single supplement from £790 Price excludes: Land only from £3,499 Local tips, personal spending and travel insurance.Visit your local travel agent, or call 020 8543 8133 63

JAPAN GOLDEN ROUTE 10 DAY TOUROsaka CastleAs its name suggests, Japan’s Golden Route visits a JAPANrange of destinations from the exciting, bustling Nikkocapital city of Tokyo, the picturesque and ancientcapital of Kyoto, and Japan’s most renowned city, ........ InboundHiroshima. Tokyo, host to the 2020 Olympic Games,offers the most modern shopping experience while still Mt Fuji .H..a..k.o..ne TOKYO flight to Tokyobeing home to historic, elegant buildings and temples.Mount Fuji, with its single snowy peak, is another 3 NIGHTSimpressive, breathtaking location. On a clear day, theviews are simply incredible. The cities of Kyoto, famous 4 NIGHTS 1 NIGHTfor its serene, charming vistas, and Hiroshima, whereyou can learn about its momentous history at the Peace KYOTOMuseum, provide much interest and enjoyment. Finally,the island of Miyajima will offer you a wonderful insight HIROSHIMA Outboundinto Japan’s natural life. flight to UK Your Sample Accommodation KYUSHU ........ Flight Drive Tokyo: Shinjuku Washington Hotel Train Hakone: Yumoto Fujiya Cruise Kyoto: Karasuma Kyoto Hotel Day 1 UK to Tokyo Accommodation upgrades available Take a scheduled flight from your regional airport to Tokyo. 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, which64 Visit www.linkstravelandtours.co.uk for more details

contains a mixture of wholesale and retail in getting to your accommodation. In the JAPAN – Group Toursstalls and is the largest market of its kind in afternoon, spend time at Nara Park andthe world. Continue to Tokyo Skytree Town Todai-ji Temple (Great Buddha). This(access to Tembo Deck is not included and UNESCO World Heritage Site is the symbol ofis subject to additional charge payable the Nara Period and one of the world’s largestlocally). Visit Sensoji Temple and Nakamise wooden structures. Visit the Kasuga TaishaShopping Street. The tour will finish at Shrine, also designated as a World Heritageapproximately 13:15 in Asakusa, and the Site, and Nara Nagomikan. Drop-off servicesguide can advise about returning to the to hotels in Kyoto are available.hotel by public transport. Afternoon is freeat leisure. Day 7 Day tour of Kyoto (BL) park was established in 1949 after the Today you will join a day tour of Kyoto by Pacific War ended, and it’s a symbol of coach. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage peace. Return to Hiroshima Station, for a Site, Nijo Castle, completed in 1626, and the bullet train to Kyoto Station, where drop off Kinkaku-ji Temple, also a UNESCO World services to designated hotels in Kyoto are Heritage Site. The wooden architecture is available. covered in thin layers of pure gold and is surrounded by a beautiful pond. Next is the Day 9 Kyoto (B) Kyoto Imperial Palace, which used to be the Day free at leisure to explore Kyoto. residence of Japan’s Imperial Family untilDay 4 Full Day Excursion to Nikko (BL) 1868, (or Kitano Tenmangu Shrine when the Day 10 Fly to UK (B)Today you will join the Nikko World Imperial Palace is closed). Enjoy a Japanese/ Day at leisure until your transfer by airportHeritage Tour. Visit Nikko Toshogu Shrine, Western style buffet lunch, before moving on shuttle bus to Kansai International Airport,the final resting place of the founder of to the Heian Jingu Shrine, a Shinto shrine Osaka. dating back to 1895. The impressivethe Tokugawa Shogunate that ruled Japan Sanjusangendo Temple, the world’s longest Note: Please note this tour is based onfor over 250 years and a part of Nikko wooden structure, housing 1,001 life-size joining day tours with other passengersUNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy a statues of Buddhist Kannon deities dating back and group sizes may vary.Japanese Style lunch, followed by a trip to the 13th century is next, followed by yourto Lake Chuzenji, a scenic lake located in final stop, and a superb view of Kyoto from theNikko National Park. See the mesmerising World Heritage Site of Kiyomizu-dera Temple.97m high Kegon Falls before returning to Drop-off services to hotels are available.Shinjuku, where the tour ends. Day 8 Day Tour to Hiroshima (B)Day 5 Tokyo to Mt. Fuji and Hakone (BL) Today you will join a full day tour to HiroshimaThis morning you will leave Tokyo for Mt. by bullet train. Upon arrival walk to theFuji and Hakone. Your main suitcase will be meeting point at Granvia Hiroshima wheretransferred directly from Tokyo to Kyoto, and you will be transferred to Miyajimaguchi. Fromyou will need to keep an overnight bag for here go to Miyajima Port, and take the ferryyour night in Hakone. After breakfast, you to Miyajima to visit the Itsukushima Shrine, EXTEND YOUR HOLIDAYwill be picked up from your accommodation a World Heritage Site. Established in the 6thand head to Mt. Fuji’s 5th Station by coach. century it is famous for its beautiful Why not extend your holiday with aStart the ascent up Mt. Fuji via the Fuji Shinden-zukuri style structure. There will be beach stay in Okinawa, city stopover inSubaru Line, and climb 2,300 metres above time for lunch at own expense before returning Hong Kong or Singapore, or spend timesea level for breathtaking views from above to Miyajima Port and Miyajimaguchi by ferry, relaxing with a beach stopover in Dubai.the clouds. Enjoy a Japanese-style lunch, and onwards to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Contact us for more detailsfollowed by a sightseeing cruise on Park and Museum by coach. This large-scalepicturesque Lake Ashi. Travel onwards to Departures and Pricesthe Mt. Komagatake Ropeway, and discover 2019 and 2020the spiritual Hakone Shrine Mototsumiya(original shrine), before ending the day at Price from £3,299 Price includes:your accommodation in Hakone. Single Supplement from £199 International flights, accommodation, Land only from £2,499 English speaking guides, transfers,Day 6 Hakone to Kyoto (B) transportation, baggage transfers for oneToday transfer to Odawara Station for your Departures vary (usually 2-3 times a week) piece, meals as specified (B=Breakfast,bullet train to Kyoto Station. (Travel time L=Lunch, D=Dinner).appox. two hours). Upon arrival at KyotoStation you will be met by an English Price excludes: Local tips, personal spending and travelspeaking representative who will assist you insurance. Visit your local travel agent, or call 020 8543 8133 65

ESSENTIAL JAPAN & SOUTH KOREA 13 DAY TOUR HOKKAIDO Kushiro Sapporo Aomori Torii Gate, Miyajima, Japan Taekwondo, Korea Outbound flight to UK Inbound 3 NIGHTS flight to Tokyo SEOUL Mt Fuji TOKYO ................ ........ ........ 2 NIGHTS 2 NIGHTS ........ ........ Flight to Seoul KYOTO HakoneHIROSHIMA 1 NIGHT 1 NIGHT Nara OSAKA 2 NIGHTS ........ Flight Drive Train CruiseThe Essential Japan and South Korea tour is perfect Day 1 UK to Tokyofor the first time traveller to these two beguiling Take a scheduled flight from your regional airport to Tokyo.countries. Enjoy spending time in the vibrant capital Day 2 Arrive Tokyo Arrive at Tokyo’s Narita or Haneda International Airport where youof Japan, Tokyo. Take a journey to the 5th stationon Mt. Fuji, marvel at Japan’s highest mountain with will be welcomed by our representative and transferred to yourits siOnKgINlAeW,Avolcanic snowy peak. The cultural city of accommodation. The rest of day is at leisure.Kyoto is where you will discover beautiful gardens, Day 3 Tokyo Tour (BL)ancient temples and traditional townhouses. Learn Start the day with a visit to Tokyo Tower, which is the second tallestabout Hiroshima, it’s past and present, and visit the self-supporting steel tower in Japan, opened in 1958. Enjoy aItsukushima Shrine, said to be one of the three most traditional Japanese tea ceremony followed by a Japanese-stylebeautiful sights in Japan. Explore delicious Japanese lunch. See the Imperial Palace Plaza and Nijubashi Bridge, acuisine in Osaka, before flying to Seoul, the double bridge and one of the country’s best-known. Enjoy a cruisefascinating capital of South Korea, an intriguing in Tokyo Bay for a unique view of the city from the water. Visitcombination of ancient and modern. Asakusa Temple and Nakamise Shopping Street, said to be one of the oldest shopping streets in Japan. Your Sample Accommodation Day 4 Mt. Fuji and Hakone (BLD) Your main luggage will be transferred from Tokyo to Kyoto. PackTokyo: Tobu Hotel Levant Tokyo a small bag for your stay at Mount Fuji. Admire the rural scenes asMount Fuji: Motosu View you drive towards Mt. Fuji and Hakone, and relax on a pleasureKyoto: El Inn Kyoto boat cruise across tranquil Lake Ashi, marvelling at the picturesqueHiroshima: Oriental Hotel Hiroshima and serene beauty of this natural lake. Take the OwakudaniOsaka: Shin-Osaka Esaka Tokyu REI Ropeway, an aerial lift with spectacular views of Mount Fuji andSeoul: T Mark Grand Ashinoko Lake. Savour lunch at a local restaurant before ascending to Mt. Fuji’s 5th station about 2,300 metres above sea level.66 Visit www.linkstravelandtours.co.uk for more details

(Subject to weather conditions). Transfer to Day 8 Hiroshima and Miyajima to JAPAN – Group Toursyour accommodation where tonight’s dinner Osaka (BL)will be served. Today starts with a ferry ride to, and one of the most unusual tourist destinations sightseeing tour of Miyajima, to visit the in the world. This visit is a real eye-openingDay 5 Mount Fuji to Nagoya and Itsukushima Shrine. A spellbinding vision is experience and will leave you with a dramaticKyoto (B) created as the mountains, sea and brilliant sense of the tremendous tragedy ofAfter breakfast travel by coach towards red shrine blend in harmony, with the entire separated families, the division of theKyoto, pausing in Nagoya to visit the striking island designated as a historic site. It is one peninsula and the hopes for reunification.Tokugawa Japanese Garden, a traditional of the three most beautiful sites in Japan, The rest of the day is at leisure.Japanese garden with a lake, fabulous rock along with Matsushima in Miyagi andformations and waterfalls. Continue to the Ama-no-hashidate in Kyoto. After lunch, Day 13 Fly to UK (B)fascinating Toyota Museum which charts the transfer to Osaka by bullet train, and check Take a shared transfer to the airport for yourhistory of the automobile, and onwards to in at your accommodation. flight to the UK.your accommodation in the cultural city ofKyoto. Day 9 Osaka and Nara (B) Note: Please note that the tours in Seoul Your morning tour of Osaka includes a visit are based on seat in coach tours, joiningDay 6 Kyoto (B) to the impressive Osaka Castle, built in the with passengers from other companies.Today you will have a day tour of Kyoto. 16th century and one of Japan’s mostPlaces of interest that you will visit include famous landmarks, followed by a river cruiseNijo Castle which was built in 1603, and on the Aqua Liner to see the city from thethe beautiful Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden water. In the afternoon travel to Nara andPavilion), a zen temple where the top two visit Todaji Temple (Great Buddha), thefloors are completely covered in gold leaf. In picturesque Nara Park, home to hundreds ofthe afternoon enjoy time at the Heian Jingu freely roaming deer and the KasugaShrine, home of perhaps the world’s most Taisha Shrine, before returning to Osaka.authentic and exquisite Japanese Garden.See the Sanjusangendo Temple, a Buddhist Day 10 Fly to Seoul (B)temple filled with 1,001 statues of Kannon, Check in at Kansai International Airport forthe Goddess of mercy, before a visit to the your flight to Seoul. Upon arrival you will beKiyomizu-dera Temple, for a panoramic view met and take a shared transfer to yourof Kyoto from the Main Hall. accommodation.Day 7 Kyoto to Hiroshima (B) Day 11 Seoul City Tour (B) EXTEND YOUR HOLIDAYOnce again, your main luggage will be Join a morning city tour of this bustling city.transferred for you, and you need to pack a Pass by the Blue House, explore Extend your holiday in South Korea bysmall bag for your stay in Hiroshima. After Gyeongbokgung Palace and see the spending more time in Seoul includingbreakfast, travel by bullet train to Hiroshima changing of the Royal Guard ceremony. Visit a visit to the Korean Folk Village. Travel(about 2 hours). On arrival visit the Peace the National Folk Museum and the Insadong south to the historical city of Gyeongju andMemorial Park, home to the shopping district. Afternoon is at leisure. Busan, a large port city known for itsGenbaku-dome (The Atomic Bomb Dome)a symbol of Hiroshima, a city that advocates Day 12 DMZ Tour (B) beaches temples and mountain.peace in the world. It was designated a Take a fascinating morning tour to the DMZ, Contact us for more detailsUNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996.While all buildings were decimated in the Departures and Pricesatomic bomb explosion, only this one 2019 and 2020miraculously, remained standing. Depart Return from £4,299 Price includes: 06/05/19 -- 18/05/19 from £4,299 International flights, flight from Osaka to 09/09/19 -- 21/09/19 from £4,445 Seoul, accommodation, English speaking 14/10/19 -- 26/10/19 from £4,599 guides, transfers, bullet train, baggage 04/11/19 -- 16/11/19 from £4,599 transfers for one piece, meals as specified 06/04/20 -- 18/04/20 from £4,499 (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner). 20/04/20 -- 02/05/20 from £4,399 11/05/20 -- 23/05/20 Price excludes: Local tips, personal spending and travel Single supplement from £845 insurance. Land only from £3,449Visit your local travel agent, or call 020 8543 8133 67

JAPAN AND CHINA 15 DAY TOURKinkakuji Temple, Kyoto GreatTWokaylol oTfoCwheirna JAPAN Inbound ight to Tokyo 3 NIGHTS BEIJING HUANG HE Inbound Mt Fuji ........ TOKYO (YELLOW ight 2 NIGHTS RIVER) to Beijing 2 NIGHTS HakoneCHINA KYOTO 1 NIGHT 2 NIGHTS XIAN 3 NIGHTS SHANGHAI RIVER YANGTZE RIVER ........ FlightYANGTZE Drive Train Outbound Cruise ight to UK CRIUISE TO LI RIVER YANGSHUOAn incredible twin-centre tour that takes you from Day 1 UK to Tokyo (B) Take your scheduled flight from the UK to Tokyo.the breathtaking views of Mount Fuji to theincredible Great Wall of China. Experience the Day 2 Arrive Tokyo (B) Upon arrival you will be met and transferred by shuttle bus to yourcultures and traditions of two nations that boast a accommodation. The rest of the day is at leisure.fascinating history. Start the tour in Japan’s capital,Tokyo and enjoy five days exploring the essential Day 3 Tokyo Morning Tour (B) Today, you will be picked up from your hotel to join Tokyo Morningattractions of Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto and Nara. Tour. Visit Meiji Shrine, the Imperial Palace Plaza and Double Bridge, and drive through Asakusa shopping district. Tour ends atVisit the illustrious capital of China, Beijing, and the 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.vibrant city of Xian, giving you a wonderful taste ofChina’s most historic attractions. This 15 day tourprovides a wonderful insight into the culture and Day 4 Tokyo to Mt. Fuji and Hakone (BL) Please leave your main suitcase with the porter desk by 7:30 am,history of both Japan and China. but keep an overnight bag with you for the night in Hakone. After breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel to join the day tour Your Sample Accommodation 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.Tokyo: Shiba Park Hotel After the tour you will be transferred to your accommodation inHakone: Hakone Hotel Hakone by taxi.Kyoto: New Miyako HotelBeijing: Guangxi Hotel Day 5 Hakone to Kyoto (B)Xian: Grand Dynasty Culture Hotel Following breakfast, transfer to Odawara or Atami station by privateShanghai: Greenland Jiulong Hotel car (Japanese speaking driver only) and take the famous bullet train to Kyoto (travel time 150min). On arrival you will be met by anAccommodation upgrades available in Japan English speaking assistant at Kyoto station, where you will be transferred to your hotel. In the afternoon, join the Kyoto Afternoon Walking Tour (approx. 3.5 km walking over varied terrain). Meet68 Visit www.linkstravelandtours.co.uk for more details

your English speaking guide, take the This will be followed by an opportunity for Day 13 Shanghai City Tour (BLD) JAPAN – Group Tourspublic bus to Higashiyama area and visit photographs at the Birds Nest Stadium and The first attraction of the day will be the Yuthe Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Kodai-ji Temple, Water Cube, venues for the memorable Yuan Gardens, first designed in 1559 duringYasaka Shrine and Gion district, one of the 2008 Olympics and 2015 World the Ming Dynasty by Pan Yunduan. The Yufamous Geisha quarters. The tour ends in Championships. In the evening, enjoy a Yuan Gardens occupies an area of 5 acresGion approx. at 6 pm. flavoursome Peking Duck Dinner, a local and is home to beautiful pavilions, delicacy and a culinary must! walkways, rockeries, streams, ponds,Day 6 Nara and Kyoto (B) courtyards and flowers. Continue to the JadeToday, join the Nara Morning Walking Tour Day 10 Bullet Train to Xian (BL) Buddha Temple, which was built to house(approx. 4.5km walking). You will meet your In the morning take a trip to the Summer two large, intricate sculptures of Buddha.English speaking guide at Kyoto Station and Palace, a magnificent collection of lakes, Afterwards you will spend time at thetake a Kintetsu Express Train to Nara, the gardens, palaces in picturesque Shanghai Museum, followed by time at theimperial capital of Japan in the 8th century. surroundings. Afterwards, relax on a boat Bund, the main waterfront attraction of thisYou will see the Todai-ji Temple (Great ride on the beautiful Kunming Lake, before modern metropolis. Later, from the top ofBuddha), Nara Park (Deer Park) and catching a bullet train to Xian (approx. 5 ½ the Shanghai world financial centre, you canKofuku-ji Temple, before returning to Kyoto hours). enjoy a breathtaking bird’s eye view of theby train. The rest of the day is at leisure. whole city. Day 11 Terracotta Warriors (BLD)Day 7 Fly to Beijing (BD) Your guide will escort you to the Terracotta Day 14 Zhujiajiao (BL)Transfer to Kansai Airport by shuttle bus for Warriors, an amazing collection of 10,000 Today will start with a visit to Zhujiajiao, anyour flight to Beijing. Upon arrival, you will life size statues of the Chinese army made ancient water town with a 1,700 yearbe met by your guide and transferred to your over 2,000 years ago. This will be followed history, known as the Pearl Stream. Youhotel for a three night stay. In the afternoon by a visit to Xian’s ancient city wall, which is should see the Ming and Qing Dynastythere will be time to relax or take a walk in best enjoyed on foot or by bike. This evening bridges, two ancient and historic buildings,the surrounding area. Your guide will be be entertained by a Tang Dynasty Show, and the Ma family Garden before headingpleased to advise you on what you can do. whilst you sample a delicious dumpling back to Shanghai for an afternoon at leisureIn the early evening, enjoy dinner with your dinner. for last minute shopping.fellow group members. Day 15 Shanghai to UK (B)Day 8 Beijing City Tour (BLD) Transfer to the airport for your flight back toThis morning, visit the Temple of Heaven, the UK.where the Ming and Qing emperorsworshipped the God of heaven, and you Note: The Japan section of your tour isshould see the tradition of Tai Chi practicedin the courtyard. This will be followed by a based on joining day tours with otherstroll through Tiananmen Square, the largestsquare in the world, and the Forbidden City passengers and group sizes may vary.which served as the grand imperial palacefor centuries. Your final stop of the day will The China section of your tour will bebe at the Hutongs, for an insight into theeveryday life of traditional Beijing people. based on a dedicated Links Travel tourDay 9 Great Wall (BLD) Day 12 Xian City Tour and to and you will be travelling with the sameYour day starts with a visit to the Great Shanghai (BL) passengers throughout China.Wall at Mutianyu, a less-crowded post withbreathtaking views. Mutianyu was built in Visit the Shaanxi Museum, home to overthe mid-6th century and its rich history canbe observed in its well-preserved structure. a quarter of a million artefacts on display, EXTEND YOUR HOLIDAY including treasures from many periods of China’s history. At the next destination, the 3 days in Hong Kong from £299 Small Wild Goose Pagoda, you will discover 5 days in Sanya from £558 China’s unique architectural style, and at your last stop, the Muslim Quarter, you will Includes: transfers, 4★ accommodation and see local life in the community. Finally, you daily breakfast will be transferred to the airport for your flight See pages 44-47 or details to Shanghai. Departures and Prices 16/03/19 – 30/05/20Depart Return from £4,198 Depart Return from £3,898 Price includes: from £4,198 from £4,198 International and domestic flights in economy16/03 30/03/19 from £4,198 14/09 28/09/19 from £4,198 class, bullet train, 3★ and 4★30/03 13/04/19 from £4,098 05/10 19/10/19 from £4,198 accommodation, transfers, English06/04 20/04/19 from £4,098 12/10 26/10/19 from £4,198 speaking guides, meals as specified04/05 18/05/19 from £3,898 19/10 02/11/19 from £4,298 (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner), entrance11/05 25/05/19 from £4,098 14/03 28/03/20 from £4,298 fees to the sites listed, airport taxes and visa01/06 15/06/19 from £4,298 28/03 11/04/20 from £4,198 fees.20/07 03/08/19 from £4,128 04/04 18/04/20 from £4,19803/08 17/08/19 from £3,898 02/05 16/05/20 from £4,198 Price excludes:31/08 14/09/19 09/05 23/05/20 Local tips in China: RMB380 (approx £44) per07/09 21/09/19 30/05 13/05/20 person, personal spending and travel insurance.Single supplement from £898Land only from £3,098 Visit your local travel agent, or call 020 8543 8133 69

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 Speaking Guides You can include an English speaking guide to 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 a guide to meet you on arrival at a station and to take you to the hotel. Please call us for further details about this service.70 Visit www.linkstravelandtours.co.uk for more details

Day tours with English speaking guides JAPAN – Semi - EscortedTo get the most from the destinations you are staying in, you can include day tours with anEnglish speaking guide. These day tours can be pre-booked either as part of a group or aprivate tour. Please visit our Cultural Experiences (pages 92-95) to see a small selection of thesepre-bookable tours. On all semi-escorted tours we are happy to include an English speakingguide as and when required. Please call for details.Self-Drive HolidaysRenting a car in Japan is a wonderful way to see this beautifulcountry at your own pace, especially as they drive on the left!Travel is at your own pace, allowing you to explore the more ruralparts of Japan that are not accessible by train. We work closelywith the leading car rental companies in Japan, proving a wideselection of modern vehicles with built in English speaking GPSnavigation systems.AccommodationEach tour featured in the brochure is based on carefully selectedstandard accommodation. These offer both comfort and value.Based on your personal preferences, you can upgrade to superiorand deluxe accommodation. A holiday to Japan is not completewithout the unique experience of an overnight stay in a traditionalJapanese accommodation (ryokan / Minshuku / Shokubo seepages 96-97) along with the opportunity to experience aJapanese hot spring.International FlightsSome of our tour rates include international flights. Where the prices are shown separately,please call for latest availability, price and most suitableflight schedule from your preferred regional airport.Links Travel & Tours Information PackYou will receive a detailed travel pack which will enableyou to get the very most out of your semi-escorted tour.This will include a detailed itinerary, directions to allaccommodations, maps that relate to your itinerary,tourist information, travel tips including getting the mostfrom each destination, local information and a Japan RailPass with information of how to activate it on arrival. Youwill also be provided with an emergency local contactnumber to offer additional support if required.WiFi Rental Service in JapanYou may wish to take advantage of a pocket WiFi rental service to stay connected during yourtime in Japan. This will enable you to use Google Maps to help you to navigate your wayaround. The devices can be collected and dropped off at the airport upon arrival and departureand cost from as little as £8 per day. See page 89 for further details.Luggage Transfer Services 71For your ease and convenience, luggage transfer services can be arranged throughout Japan betweenmain cities and places of interest. Please ask for further details and we will be happy to advise. “I wholeheartedly praise the entire tour and express our gratitude for organising it. The hotel selections were very comfortable, centrally located, and appropriate. Pass on our compliments to Teiko for his hospitality in Kyoto”. James and Sarah Visit your local travel agent, or call 020 8543 8133

CLASSIC JAPAN 9 DAY TOUR HOKKAIDO Kushiro SapporoMeiji Shrine, Tokyo AomoriDiscover the culture and landscape of thisamazing country, with our nine day Classic Japantour. You will visit the cities of Tokyo and Kyotoas well as iconic Mt Fuji. Cruise on Lake Ashi andenjoy an overnight stay at a traditional hot springs in Inbound flight to TokyoHakone. Extend your tour with three or four nights on ........ .... TOKYOthe beautiful island of Okinawa, where you can relax 3 NIGHTS Mt Fuji........ 3 NIGHTSin the subtropical climate, enjoying the white sandy KYOTO........Hakone 1 NIGHTbeaches and crystal blue waters. 1 NIGHTS Nara HIROSHIMA Yamaguchi Outbound ........ Flight flight to UK Drive Train Nagasaki Cruise KYUSHU Day 1 UK to Tokyo Take a scheduled flight from your regional airport to Tokyo. Your Sample Accommodation OKINAWA Day 2 Arrive Tokyo Arrive at either Narita or Haneda airports, where you will beTokyo: Shiba Park Hotel welcomed by our representative who will assist you to board anHakone: Hakone Hotel airport bus to transfer to your accommodation. The rest of theKyoto: New Miyako Hotel day is free at leisure.Accommodation upgrades available Day 3 Tokyo (B) Day at leisure with optional tours available to pre-book. Japan’s bustling capital, Tokyo mixes modern with traditional, from neon-lit skyscrapers, to attractive cherry tree filled gardens and historic temples.72 Visit www.linkstravelandtours.co.uk for more details

Day 4 Tokyo Morning Tour (B) JAPAN – Semi - EscortedToday, you will be collected from your hotelto join a morning tour of Tokyo. Visit MeijiShrine and the Imperial Palace East Garden(or Imperial Palace Plaza and DoubleBridge, Monday, Friday and when thegarden is closed) and drive through Asakusashopping district. Tour ends at TokyoStation. The rest of the day is free at leisure.Day 5 Tokyo to Mt. Fuji and Hakone (BL) Day 7 Nara Morning Walking Tour and amazing dishes on offer including Sushi,Your main suitcase will be transferred Kyoto (B) Kaiseki-ryori, tempura and noodles. Duringdirectly from Tokyo to Kyoto. Please keep After breakfast, is the walking Nara Morning your time in Kyoto you may come acrossan overnight bag with you for the night in Tour (approx. 4.5km). Meet an English a Geisha and Maiko (apprentice Geisha)Hakone. After breakfast, you will be picked speaking guide at the station and catch a wearing traditional kimono. Gion, one ofup from your accommodation to join a Kintetsu Express Train to Nara, the imperial the main downtown districts in Kyoto, isday tour to Mt. Fuji and Hakone. Visit Mt. capital of Japan in the 8th century. Here where you may catch a sight of them. ThereFuji’s 5th station in the morning, and after you will explore the Todai-ji Temple (Great is so much to discover and experience inlunch continue to Owakudani Boiling Valley Buddha), Nara Park (Deer Park) and the Kyoto so take your time to enjoy this historicusing the Hakone Ropeway, followed by a Kofuku-ji Temple, before returning to Kyoto and charming city!cruise on Lake Ashi. After the tour, you will by train, where the tour ends. The rest of thebe transferred to your accommodation in day is free at leisure. Day 9 Fly to UK (B)Hakone by taxi. Day at leisure until your transfer to Kansai Day 8 Kyoto (B) International Airport by shuttle bus for yourDay 6 Hakone on to Kyoto Afternoon Day at leisure. Home to 17 UNESCO World flight to your regional UK airport.Walking Tour (B) Heritage Sites, Kyoto was the centre ofAfter breakfast, make your way to the politics for 1,100 years. This culturally rich EXTEND YOUR HOLIDAYstation by private car for your bullet train to city has many interesting places to discoverKyoto, where you will be met by an English including museums, art galleries, shrines Why not extend your holiday with a beachspeaking assistant upon arrival, who will and temples. You will also uncover an stay in Okinawa, city stopover in Hongtransfer you to your accommodation. In exciting food culture with a variety ofthe afternoon, join a Kyoto Afternoon Tour Kong or Singapore, or spend time relaxingby foot (approx. 3.5 km walking with some with a beach stopover in Dubai.parts over steep terrain). You will meet an Contact us for more detailsEnglish speaking guide and take a publicbus to visit the Kiyomizu-dera Temple, theKodai-ji Temple, the Yasaka Shrine and theGion district, one of the famous Geishaquarters, where the tour ends. Departures and Prices 2019 and 2020 Departures are daily Price from £2,699 per person Single supplement from £690 Land only from £1,899 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 73

SELF – DRIVE HOLIDAYS 15 DAY TOUR HOKKAIDO Kushiro Sapporo AomoriHiring a car to get around Japan is a fantastic way M1aNtsIuGmHoTto Inboundto explore the country, especially as they drive on the flight to Tokyoleft. 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 TOKYOwhen refueling your car, you will receive first classservice at petrol stations. By taking to the road, you KYOTO Na.g.o..y.a... 3 NIGHTShave the freedom to explore the country at your ownpace, seeing the diverse scenery and witnessing Hamamatsu 1 NIGHT Outboundlocal life you wouldn’t encounter by other modes of flight to UKtransport. We have put together this sample self-drive 1 NIGHTitinerary to give you an idea of one of the many OSAKAroutes available. Please contact us now for your own 2 NIGHTSself-drive holiday of Japan, tailored to suit yourspecific requirements. Hongu ........ Flight ShirahamaYuno1mNinIeGOHTnsen Drive Train 1 NIGHT Cruise Your Sample Accommodation Day 1 UK to Tokyo Take a scheduled flight from your regional airport to Tokyo.Tokyo: Shiba Park HotelHakone: Nanpuso Day 2 Arrive TokyoHamamatsu: Hotel Concorde Arrive at Tokyo International Airport, where you will be met andNagoya: Nagoya Ekimae Montblanc Hotel assisted to board an airport bus for the transfer to your hotel.Yunomine Onsen: Sansuikan Kawayu MidOoKriIyNaAWAShirahama: Kisyu Shirahama Onsen Musashi Ryokan Day 3 Tokyo (B)Osaka: Osaka Castle Hotel Day at leisure to explore Tokyo.Kyoto: New Miyako HotelMatsumoto: 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, which should take approx. 2 ½ hours. Discover Mt. Fuji and the74 Visit www.linkstravelandtours.co.uk for more details

surrounding area, such as Kawaguchi Lake, JAPAN – Self - Driveand in the evening, continue to Hakone fora night at a ryokan, where your dinner willbe served.Day 5 Hakone to Hamamatsu (B)From Hakone, drive to Hamamatsu, approx.2 ½ hours, and marvel at the Hamana Lakeand Nakatajima Sakyu, sand dunes.Day 6 Hamamatsu to Nagoya (B)Your next destination is Nagoya and a daythere at your leisure. There are many sitesto see, for instance Nagoya Castle, theaquarium, Tokugawa Art Museum, OsuKannon Temple and Korankei Valley. Stay inNagoya for one night.Day 7 Nagoya, Hongu and Yunomine- commercial powerhouse, is known for its such as Ryoanji, Fushimi Inari shrine,Onsen (BD) modern architecture, boisterous nightlife Kinkakuji Temple, Nijo Castle and more.After a night in Nagoya, travel to Hongu to and hearty street food. In the heart of the You can travel to Nara or even Arashiyamawalk some of the Kumano Kodo and visit city is the perfectly restored, and impressive, by car or public transport.the Hongu Taisha, Kumano Nachi Taisha Osaka-jo Castle. Osaka’s north gate,and Seigantoji. Once you are done, Umeda, has a gigantic stretch of Day 13 Kyoto to Matsumoto (B)continue onto Yunomine onsen for an underground mall that houses many From Kyoto, travel to Matsumoto by car,overnight stay in a ryokan. restaurants, fashion and general stores. It is which takes approximately 4 ½ hours. Once also widely known as the Nation’s Kitchen, you arrive, check into your accommodationDay 8 Nagoya, Hongu and offering an incredible array of tasty to stay for a night.Yunomine Onsen (BD) Japanese cuisine.The next day sees you make your way to Day 14 Matsumoto to Tokyo (B)Shirahama. Once you have arrived, check Day 10 Osaka (B) Leave your accommodation in the afternooninto your accommodation for a night, and Explore Osaka at your leisure, visiting places and travel back to Tokyo. Return your carspend the rest of the day discovering such as the sky Observatory, Osaka Castle, to the Car Hire Office and check into yourShirahama and its onsens. the Namba area, Dotonbori and more. accommodation for one night. Maybe visit Mt. Koya to see the cemeteryDay 9 Shirahama to Osaka (B) and temples. This takes approximately 2 Day 15 Fly to UK (B)From Shirahama, travel to Osaka using the hours by car from Osaka. Day at leisure until your shuttle bus to theexpressways, check into your airport and your flight back to the UK.accommodation where you will stay for Day 11 Osaka to Kyoto (B)two nights. Osaka, is a large port city and Travel from Osaka to Kyoto in the Note: Self-drive itineraries also afternoon, which should take under an available for the islands of Hokkaido hour. Arrive at your accommodation and and Kyushu where exploring by car is check in for two nights. the best way to cover the vast distances. Contact us for further details. Day 12 Kyoto (B) Explore Kyoto at your leisure. Visit places Departures and Prices 2019 and 2020 Departures are daily Prices from £3,399 Land only from £2,599 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 75

JAPAN FAMILY TOUR 15 DAY TOUR HOKKAIDO Kushiro SapporoLake Ashi, Hakone AomoriExplore the history and culture of this amazing Kanazawa Inboundcountry, with fun-filled excursions for all the family. flight to TokyoDiscover ancient castles and tranquil shrines,marvel at Mt. Fuji, perhaps feed the deer in Nara 2 NIGHTS Shirakawago ........ .... TOKYOPark, cruise Lake Ashi on a Pirate Boat, and tread in 3 NIGHTS 4 NIGHTSthe footsteps of ancients at Osaka Castle. Let your ........Mt Fujiimagination run wild in the fantasy worlds and KYOTOexhilarating rides of Disneyland and Universal HakoneStudios! This is a semi-escorted tour, based on ........travelling independently and joining day tours where 2 NIGHTS ........OSAKAspecified. Japan Rail Passes are included to enable HIROSHIMA 2 NIGHTSyou to travel freely on all applicable Japan Railservices. Kansai Nara Airport Outbound flight to UK ........ Flight Drive Train Cruise Your Sample Accommodation Day 1 UK to Tokyo Depart the UK on your scheduled flight to Tokyo. Flights fromTokyo: Shinagawa Tobu regional airports can be arranged on request.Kanazawa: Kanazawa New GrandKyoto: New Miyako OKINAWAHiroshima: Tokyu REIOsaka: Granvia Day 2 Arrive Tokyo Upon arrival at Haneda/Narita Airport, you will be met by anAccommodation upgrades available English speaking assistant who will help you board an airport shuttle bus transfer to your hotel. Upon arrival at your accommodation in Tokyo, please check in by yourself. The rest of the day is at leisure. Day 3 Tokyo Half Day Tour (B) This morning, after breakfast, join a Tokyo Morning 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 located76 Visit www.linkstravelandtours.co.uk for more details

in Shibuya and drive past the Akasaka Guest JAPAN – Semi - EscortedHouse and the National Diet Building.Continue to the Imperial Palace EastGarden (or Imperial Palace Plaza andDouble Bridge, Monday, Friday and whenthe garden is closed) and drive through theGinza shopping district, where the tour ends.Day 4 Mount Fuji and Hakone (B) capital of Japan in the 8th century, and Day 13 Hiroshima to Osaka (B)Enjoy a day tour to Mount Fuji and Hakone visit the Todaiji Temple where an enormous From Hiroshima take a bullet train toto marvel at one of the most iconic sights bronze Buddha image is exhibited in the Osaka, and in the afternoon join aof Japan. Visit Mount Fuji’s 5th Station and Daibutsuden Hall. Continue to Nara Park, half-day tour of Osaka. Visit Osaka’sjourney on the Hakone Sky Gondola. See where over 1,200 wild shika deer freely famous sightseeing spots and learn aboutthe Owakudani Valley and enjoy a Pirate roam. Visitors can feed them Shika-senbei, the city’s history. Explore Osaka Castle,Boat cruise on Lake Ashi. Return to Tokyo by a special snack for the deer sold in the park built in 1583 and one of the most importantbullet train. grounds. Visit the Kofuku-ji Temple, which castles in Japan, and enjoy the scenery of was transferred from Kyoto in AD710 and the city, from the boat the Aqua Liner, alsoDay 5 Tokyo Disneyland and Disney Sea (B) has a five-story pagoda, the second highest known as “Aqua Metropolis Osaka” on anCatch a train from Shinagawa to Maihama in Japan, before returning to Kyoto, for the hour long cruise.Station and make your way to Tokyo rest of your day at leisure.Disneyland or Disney Sea. Spend a day at Day 14 Osaka, Universal Studios (B)the park enjoying the rides, attractions, Day 10 Kyoto (B) Today, experience a trip to Universal Studiosentertainment, shops and parades. At the Day at leisure. You may wish to spend the for a fun-filled day enjoying all the rides,end of the day return to your morning enjoying a cultural experience at attractions and entertainment that this themeaccommodation. a unique Machiya Townhouse, where a park has to offer. Take the short train guide will explain about the traditions and journey between Osaka Station andDay 6 Tokyo to Kanazawa (B) history of the house and its antique furniture. Universal City.Travel to the station for your Limited Express You will have the opportunity to learn moretrain to Kanazawa, where you should make about the traditional Japanese Kimono. Day 15 Depart (B)your own way to the accommodation. Select your favourite from one of many From Osaka Station take the train to KansaiThe rest of the day is at leisure to relax or choices of finest silk kimonos and learn Airport for your flight to the UK.explore the neighbourhood. the secrets of how to wear and move in a kimono with grace and beauty. (Additional Departures and PricesDay 7 Day Trip to Shirakawago (B) cost for this experience £70 per person, 2019 and 2020Take a Nohi Bus to Shirakawago (travel time must be pre-booked).approx 75 mins), and explore this UNESCO Departures are daily World Heritage Site, famous for the 250 Day 11 Kyoto to Hiroshima (B) Price from £3,299 per adultyear old, traditional gasshou-zukuri Catch a Bullet Train to Hiroshima, and upon From £2,599 per child.farmhouses. Return to Kanazawa by bus. arrival make your own way to your accommodation. The rest of the day is at (based on 2 adults and 2 children under 11Day 8 Kanazawa to Kyoto, Afternoon leisure, with an opportunity to explore years of age travelling in low Season)Tour (B) Hiroshima independently. Perhaps visit the For alternative pricing options, pleaseAfter breakfast, go to the station for your Peace Memorial Park and the ask for details.Limited Express train to Kyoto, and make Genbaku-Dome (The Atomic Bomb Dome), Land only from £2,499 per adult andyour way to your accommodation. This the symbol of Hiroshima, a city that from £1,899 per child.afternoon, join the Kyoto Afternoon Tour, advocates world Peace. It was designatedwhich includes the Heian Jingu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. Price includes:Sanjusangendo Hall and the impressive While all structures were decimated by the International flights, accommodation,Kiyomizudera Temple with fantastic views of atomic bomb explosion, only this building English speaking guides, transfers,Kyoto. miraculously remained standing! Perhaps 14 Day Japan Rail Pass, Disneyland take the ferry across to Miyajima Island and or Disney Sea and Universal StudiosDay 9 Nara Half Day Tour (B) see the Itsukushima Shrine, the great Torii Pass, meals as specified (B=Breakfast,This morning starts with a walking tour of gate that stands in the sea. L=Lunch, D=Dinner).Nara. Take the train to Nara, the imperial Day 12 Hiroshima (B) Price excludes: Day at leisure. For car enthusiasts, maybe Local tips, personal spending and travel visit the fascinating Mazda Museum, a short insurance. train journey from Hiroshima Station.Visit your local travel agent, or call 020 8543 8133 77

JAPAN HERITAGE 15 DAY TOUR HOKKAIDO Kushiro Sapporo Geisha at temple in Kyoto AomoriExplore Japan’s classic sights, starting in the exciting ........KanazawaShirakawago Inbound flightcapital city of Tokyo, famous for its fresh sushi, and 1 NIGHT to Tokyojourney on the famous bullet train through scenic 1 NIGHTcentral Japan. Visit Takayama, a mountainside town, ........ TOKYOfilled with authentic markets, culture and traditional Takayama 3 NIGHTSJapanese wooden houses. Enjoy time at the ........ 1 NIGHT Mt FujiUNESCO World Heritage Site of Shirakawago, andsee classic landscape designs, gardens, castle and KYOTOart museums in Kanazawa. Explore the Gion districtin Kyoto, spend time in the historic city of Hiroshima, 3 NIGHTSand finish your tour in the vibrant city of Osaka. 2 NIGHTS OSAKA 1 NIGHT HIROSHIMA Nara Kansai Mt.Koya Airport 1 NIGHT Outbound ........ Flight flight to UK Drive Train CruiseYour Sample Accommodation Day 1 UK to TokyoTokyo: Shiba Park Hotel Take a scheduled flight from your regional airport to Tokyo.Takayama: Hida Hotel PlazaShirakawago: Koemon Day 2 Arrive TokyoKanazawa: Hotel Kanazawa OKAINrrAiWveA at Narita or Haneda Airport, where you will be met byKyoto: New MiyakoMt. Koya: Fukuchiin your guide and taken to the shuttle bus for your transfer.Hiroshima: Hotel New HirodenOsaka: Hotel Elsereine Osaka Day 3 Tokyo Morning City Tour (B) Today, you will be picked up from your accommodation to joinAccommodation upgrades available a Tokyo Morning City Tour, with an English speaking guide. Visit 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.78 Visit www.linkstravelandtours.co.uk for more details

Day 4 Mt. Fuji and Hakone (BL) JAPAN – Semi - EscortedAfter breakfast, you will be picked up fromyour accommodation to join a Mt. Fujiand Hakone Day tour by coach. The tourincludes a trip to Mt. Fuji’s 5th station, aJapanese style lunch, Hakone Ropeway anda cruise across tranquil Lake Ashi.Arrive back to Tokyo in the evening.Day 5 Tokyo to Takayama (B) Visitors may feed the deer with Shika-senbei, Day 14 Hiroshima to Osaka (B)Your main suitcase will be transferred a special snack for the deer sold in the Leave Hiroshima for Osaka by train anddirectly from Tokyo to Kyoto, but keep the park. Also visit the Kofuku-ji Temple, before make your own way to yourluggage you need for your nights in returning to Kyoto, and visiting the accommodation. The rest of the day atTakayama, Shirakawago and Kanazawa. Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Kodai-ji Temple and leisure.Make your own way to the station for your Yasaka Shrine. The tour ends in the Gionbullet train to Nagoya and onward train to district. Day 15 Fly to UK (B)Takayama. Upon arrival, make your own Day at leisure, until your transfer to Kansaiway to your accommodation. Day 10 Kyoto (B) International Airport by airport shuttle bus Day at leisure. Should you want to, there are and your regional flight to the UK.Day 6 Takayama to Shirakawago (BD) many optional tours available to pre-book.Morning at leisure. Why not explore the Home to 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, EXTEND YOUR HOLIDAYmorning market along the Miya-gawa River, Kyoto was the centre of politics for 1,100 Why not extend your holiday with a beachTakayama Jinya, the Yatai Kaikan Hall, years, and this culturally rich city offers manyKusakabe Folk Craft Museum and the streets interesting places to visit including stay in Okinawa, city stopover in Hongof Kami Sannomachi, where you can see museums, art galleries, shrines and temples. Kong or Singapore, or spend time relaxingtraditional Japanese wooden houses. In the During your time in Kyoto you may comeafternoon, take a Nohi bus to Shirakawago, across a Geisha and Maiko (apprentice with a beach stopover in Dubai.and upon arrival, make your way to your Geisha) wearing traditional kimono in Gion, Contact us for more detailsaccommodation for an overnight stay with one of the main downtown districts in Kyoto.dinner. The historic village of Shirakawago Departures and Priceswas registered as a UNESCO World Day 11 Kyoto to Mt. Koya (BD) 2019 and 2020Heritage Site in 1995, and is famous for Your main suitcase will be transferredpreserving the traditional gassho-zukuri directly from Kyoto to Osaka. With your Departures are dailystyle houses with their iconic thatched roofs, overnight bag you will be met by an English Price from £3,899 per personsome of which are more than 300 years old. speaking assistant at your accommodation (Based on low season) who will take you to the station for your Single supplement from £990Day 7 Shirakawago to Kanazawa (B) train to Mt. Koya, followed by cable car via Land only from £3,099Take a bus from Shirakawago to Kanazawa, Gokurakubashi. Tonight you will stay in aand on arrival, make your way to your temple lodging. Afternoon at leisure. Dinner Price includes:accommodation. Afternoon free at leisure. will be served at your lodging. International flights, accommodation, English speaking guides, transfers, bulletDay 8 Kanazawa to Kyoto (B) Day 12 Mt. Koya to Hiroshima (B) train, baggage transfers for one piece,Day at leisure. With your Kanazawa Loop Leave Mt. Koya for Hiroshima via Osaka, meals as specified (B=Breakfast,Bus, One Day Pass, Hop On Hop Off ticket and on arrival, make your way to your L=Lunch, D=Dinner).(daily ex Wed), you could visit Kenrokuen accommodation. Afternoon at leisure. Price excludes:Garden and Seisonkaku, as the entrance Local tips, personal spending and traveltickets for these sites are included. Use your Day 13 Hiroshima (B) insurance.Tea coupon at Kikantei, for a refreshing Day free at leisure to explore Hiroshima andgreen tea with gold leaves and tempting Miyajima, with optional tours available toJapanese sweets, and enjoy a traditional pre-book. Discover Hiroshima Atomic Bombart experience, Kanazawa Gold Leaf Art. Dome, Peace Memorial Park andIndulge in a leisurely stroll through the old Itsuku-shima-jinja, located on Miya-jimaSamurai district, before catching your Island, which is said to be one of the threeexpress train to Kyoto. Upon arrival, you will most beautiful sights in Japan.be met by an English speaking assistant andtransferred to your accommodation.Day 9 Kyoto and Nara Day Tour (B)Today join a full day walking tour of Naraand Kyoto. You will be met by a tour guidein front of Kyoto train station and make yourway to Nara, to visit the Todaiji Temple withGreat Buddha, Nara Park, home to over1,200 wild shika deer who freely roam.Visit your local travel agent, or call 020 8543 8133 79

GREAT TRAIL OF JAPAN 17 DAY TOUR HOKKAIDO Kushiro SapporoYudanaka Snow Monkeys AomoriJourney through Japan, taking in some of the most 1 NIGHTpicturesque locations. Visit the modern capital Tokyo Nagano Yudanakaand enjoy a tour to Mount Fuji and Hakone. See ......S..hirak.aT.w.a.a.k.ga.o.y.a..m. a1MNaI.G.tHs.Tu.m..o..to.... Inbound flightthe famous snow monkeys in the hot springs resort Kanazawa 1 NIGHT to Tokyoof Yudanaka. Take the train to the mountain city of 2 NIGHTSMatsumoto, then, spend time in the traditionalvillages of Takayama, Shirakawago and Kanazawa. ........ ........ TOKYOEnjoy three nights in the cultural city of Kyoto before Mt Fuji 3 NIGHTScatching the Bullet train to the historic city of ........Hiroshima. Your last night is spent in the vibrant port KYOTO Nagoyacity of Osaka. 3 NIGHTS Hakone Your Sample Accommodation 2 NIGHTS OSAKA 1 NIGHT Tokyo: Shiba Park HIROSHIMA Nara Yudanaka: Issa no komichi Biyu no Yado Matsumoto: Matsumoto Marunouchi Kansai Mt.Koya Takayama: Hida Plaza Hotel Airport 1 NIGHT Kanazawa: Hotel Kanazawa Kyoto: New Miyako Hotel Outbound Flight Mt Koya: Shukubo Fukuchi-in flight to UK Drive Hiroshima: Hotel New Hiroden Train Osaka: Elsereine Osaka ........ Cruise Accommodation upgrades available Day 1 UK to Tokyo Take a scheduled flight from your regional airport to Tokyo. DOaKyIN2AWAA rrive Tokyo Arrive at Narita International Airport where you will be met by our representative and board an airport bus transfer to your accommodation, and check in for a three night stay. Day 3 Tokyo Morning City Tour (B) Today, join the Tokyo Morning Tour, and an English speaking 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.80 Visit www.linkstravelandtours.co.uk for more details

Day 4 Mt. Fuji and Hakone (BL) Kanazawa Casual Package, which includes a bullet train to Hiroshima and an afternoon JAPAN – Semi - EscortedYour day trip to Mt. Fuji and Hakone starts a Loop Bus one day pass and a visit to the at leisure.after breakfast. This includes an excursion fabulous Kenrokuen Garden. Also enjoy teato Mt. Fuji’s 5th station, a Japanese style at Kikantei and a gold leaf art experience. Day 15 Hiroshima (B)lunch, the Hakone Ropeway, and a relaxing Another day at leisure. Perhaps spend timeboat cruise on Lake Ashi. Day 10 Kanazawa to Kyoto (B) at the Hiroshima Atomic Bomb Dome Free time to admire the gardens and (Genbaku Dome) located in the PeaceDay 5 Tokyo to Nagano and Yudanaka (BD) museums, until your express train to Kyoto. Memorial Park, and a symbol of worldYour main suitcase will be transferred Upon arrival, make your way to your peace, or the Itsuku-shima-jinja. Inscribeddirectly from Tokyo to Takayama, and you accommodation to check in. as a UNESCO World Heritage Site alongwill need to keep an overnight bag for your with the Genbaku Dome in 1996, it isnights in Yudanaka and Matsumoto. Make Day 11 Kyoto and Nara Day tour (B) located on Miyajima Island and is said toyour way to the station for your bullet train Today, you have a full day walking tour of be one of the three most beautiful sights into Nagano, where an English-speaking Nara and Kyoto. In Nara, you will visit the Japan. Enjoy your free day using your 1-Dayassistant will meet you at the platform and Todaiji Temple with Great Buddha, Nara Tour voucher, which also includes a nightassist with boarding a local train to Park and the Kofuku-ji Temple, and in cruise.Yudanaka. Upon arrival, check in at your Kyoto, you should see the Tenryuji Temple,accommodation, and make your way to the Sagano Bamboo Grove, Jojakkoji Temple Day 16 Hiroshima to Osaka (B)Snow Monkey Park (Jigokudani Yaenkoen) and Togetsu Bridge, before finishing at Following breakfast, catch a bullet train toand an exhilarating mountain walk. Return Kyoto Station. Osaka and an afternoon free at leisure.to your accommodation for dinner. Osaka is a bustling port city and Day 12 Kyoto (B) commercial powerhouse known for itsDay 6 Yudanaka to Nagano and Day is at leisure, with optional tours modern architecture, boisterous nightlifeMatsumoto (BD) available to pre-book. Home to 17 and tasty street food. There are many sitesCatch a train to Nagano, where you will UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Kyoto was to see and shops to visit including thehave some time to discover the local area the centre of politics for 1,100 years. This impressive Osaka-jo Castle and a giganticbefore continuing to Matsumoto for an culturally rich city offers many interesting underground shopping centre beneathovernight stay. places to visit including museums, art Umeda, that houses many restaurants, galleries, shrines and temples. You will also fashion and general goods stores. Osaka isDay 7 Matsumoto to Takayama (B) discover an exciting food culture with a also widely known as the Nation’s Kitchen,Maybe explore the city’s imposing variety of deliciously tempting dishes on offering an incredible array of tastyMatsumoto Castle, or a former Samurai offer including Sushi, Kaiseki-ryori, tempura Japanese dishes.residence. Your tour continues to Takayama, and noodles. During your time in Kyoto youhome to a twice-yearly festival celebrating may spot Geisha and Maiko (apprentice Day 17 Fly to UK (B)spring and autumn. Geisha) wearing traditional kimono. Day at leisure until your shuttle bus transfer to the airport. Fly to your regional airport inDay 8 Takayama to Shirakawago and Day 13 Kyoto to Mt. Koya (BD) the UK.Kanazawa (B) Once again, your main suitcase will beUncover the fascinating history of the Edo transferred on and you will need to keep EXTEND YOUR HOLIDAYperiod on view in the wooden merchants’ an overnight bag for your nights in Mt.Koyahouses in the Sanmachi Suji district. Keep and Hiroshima. Make your way to Mt.Koya Why not extend your holiday with aan overnight bag for your nights in your next by train and cable car via Gokurakubashi. beach stay in Okinawa, city stopover indestination, as your main luggage will be This is one of Japan’s most sacred Hong Kong or spend time relaxing withtransferred directly to Kyoto. Make your way mountain’s, where you will stay and dine into Kanazawa via the traditional thatched the temple lodgings. a beach stopover in Dubai.houses of Shirakawago. Day 14 Mt. Koya to Hiroshima (B) Contact us for more detailsDay 9 Kanazawa (B) Leave Mt. Koya by cable car and train viaDay at leisure. Enjoy your day using your Gokurakubashi. Today’s travelling ends with Departures and Prices 2019 and 2020 Departures are daily Price from £4,699 per person Single supplement from £899 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 81

TAILOR - MADE JOURNEYS AND PRIVATE TOURSIf you can’t find a tour that fits your requirements, let us tailor-make your entire holiday designedspecifically around your requirements. Equipped with our specialist knowledge and first-handexperience of Japan, we will create a personal and independent itinerary for you. With our selectedstandard, superior and deluxe accommodation, we will put together an itinerary based on your budgetand preferences. To provide you with ideas and inspiration, the following suggestions provide just asmall flavour of the many possibilities available. Please feel free to contact our Japan specialists todiscuss your preferred itinerary.TOKYOJapan’s dazzling capital, Tokyo has an intriguing mix of historic and modern, with skyscrapers andneon-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 GinzaThe spiritual heart of Tokyo, Asakusa is home to This elegant area of Tokyo is renowned for beingthe city’s most popular Buddhist temple, Senso-ji. home of some of the city’s original departmentThis is where the people of Tokyo come to stores, and backstreets with unique boutiques andworship, ponder and make a wish at the small eateries.Asakusa-jinja Shrine. AkihabaraShinjuku Akihabara is jam-packed with shops selling allShinjuku embodies everything that is modern kinds of electronics and is now the cultural homeJapan, a busy neon-lit district with a bustling to diehard fans of gaming, manga and anime,nightlife and towering skyscrapers. known as otaku!Tokyo Bay and OdaibaSet on a man-made island in Tokyo Bay, Odaibais where to go for general seaside fun and arelaxed atmosphere.TOKYO 4 DayDay 1 Tokyo Day 4 Depart (B)Arrive at the airport and transfer to the Shiba Park Day at leisure until your transfer to the airport forHotel by shuttle bus. The rest of the day is at your onward journey.leisure.Day 2 Tokyo Full Day Tour (B) PricesA Tokyo Full Day Tour takes you to the ImperialPalace East Garden, Senso-ji Temple, thefascinating Tsukiji Fish Market, and an enjoyablecruise of Tokyo Bay.Day 3 Tokyo (B) Price from £550Day at leisure to explore Tokyo. Optional day toursto Nikko UNESCO World Heritage Site or Mt. Fuji Based on twin share including return airport transfers, 3 nightsand Hakone. standard accommodation, daily breakfast, Full Day Tokyo City Tour, English speaking guide on arrival82 Visit www.linkstravelandtours.co.uk for more details

JAPAN – Tailor - MadeKYOTOA holiday to Japan is not complete without spending time in this former capital. Home to 17 UNESCOWorld Heritage Sites, Kyoto is brimming with museums, art galleries, shrines, temples, and an excitingfood culture with a variety of amazing dishes on offer.Gion District NaraKnown as Kyoto’s most famous geisha district, Nara is home to some of the country’s bestGion is packed with traditional teahouses, and is temples and shrines, along with several fineat its most atmospheric in the early evening, when gardens, museums, eight UNESCO Worldthe Maiko rush to their appointments. Heritage Sites, and the almost-tame deer at the Nara-koen Park!KYOTO 4 DayDay 1 Kyoto Day 4 Depart (B)Arrive at Osaka Airport, and transfer to the New Day at leisure until your transfer to the airport forMiyako Hotel by shuttle bus. The rest of the day is your onward journey.at leisure.Day 2 Kyoto 1 Day Tour (BL) PricesToday, after breakfast, join a Kyoto 1 Day Tour toNijo Castle, Kinkakuji Temple, and Kyoto Imperial Price from £635Palace (or Kitano-tenmangu Shrine). After a buffetlunch, visit the Heian Jingu Shrine, Sanjusangendo Including return airport transfers, 3 nights standardTemple and the Kiyomizu-dera Temple. accommodation, daily breakfast, Full Day Kyoto City Tour, English-speaking guide on arrival, meals as specifiedDay 3 Kyoto (B)Day at leisure to explore Kyoto. Suggested tours (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch)include Real Kyoto Back Street Guided CyclingTour, Tea Ceremony and Ginkau-ji TempleWalking Tour, Sagano Bamboo Grove andArashiyama Walking Tour. Visit your local travel agent, or call 020 8543 8133 83

Osaka, Hiroshima, Miyajima and Mount KoyaOsaka Hiroshima Mount KoyaOsaka is a large port, known for its This modern city was rebuilt Mount Koya is the name of themodern architecture, boisterous post-war, and is home to the mountains in Wakayamanightlife, tasty street food, and Hiroshima Atomic Bomb Dome, Prefecture to the south of Osaka. Itthe impressive, Osaka-jo Castle. situated in the Peace Memorial is the centre of Shingon Buddhism,Known as the Nation’s Kitchen, the Park. The Itsuku-shima-jinja shrine, an important Buddhist sect whichcity offers an incredible array of located on Miyajima Island, is said was introduced to Japan in 805.delicious dishes. to be one of Japan’s three most beautiful sights.OSAKA 3 Day HIROSHIMA AND MOUNT KOYA 3 DayDay 1 Osaka MIYAJIMA 3 Day Day 1 Mount Koya (D)Arrive Kansai Airport, and transfer to Day 1 Hiroshima Travel by train and cable car fromthe Hotel Elsereine. Rest of the day is Take the Bullet train to Hiroshima, Osaka to Mount Koya viaat leisure. and check-in to the Hotel Granvia Gokurakubashi and make your Hiroshima. The remainder of the day way to your accommodation. StayDay 2 Osaka Afternoon Walking is at leisure. for two nights, dining at the templeTour (B) lodging.Join an afternoon walking tour of Day 2 Full Day Tour (B) Day 2 Mount Koya (BD)Osaka’s famous sightseeing spots This full day tour visits the popular Spend the day exploring aroundand see the city from the water World Heritage Sites of the Mount Koya, one of Japan’s mostaboard the Aqua Liner. Itsukushima Shrine, the Atomic Bomb sacred mountains. A vegetarian, Dome, and Hiroshima Peace and Buddhist dinner will be served atDay 3 Depart (B) Memorial Park. your accommodation.Day at leisure until your transfer tothe airport and your onward journey. Day 3 Depart (B) Day 3 Depart (B) Take the Bullet train from Hiroshima Travel by cable car and train to to Kyoto or Osaka. Osaka.Prices Prices PricesPrice from £430 Price from £450 Price from £326Including 2 nights standard Including 2 nights standard Including transportation asaccommodation, return airport accommodation, full Day specified, 2 nights temple lodging,transfers, English speaking guide Hiroshima and Miyajima Tour, meals as specified (B=Breakfast,on arrival, meals as specified meals as specified (B=Breakfast, D=Dinner)(B=Breakfast) L=Lunch)84 Visit www.linkstravelandtours.co.uk for more details

JAPAN – Tailor - MadeHokkaido Yudanaka HakubaHokkaido is an island at Japan’s A popular hot springs resort, Hakuba, host to the 1998 Winterfar north, where low humiditymakes the summers pleasant, and Yudanaka is famous for the Snow Olympics, is a highland resort atthe winter’s ideal for snow sports.This beautiful island is a haven Monkeys that live in the area. A the foot of the Hakuba-Sanzanfor wildlife, making it popularthroughout the year. It also boasts special outdoor bath was built for Mountains. Hakuba Valley isover 1,200 festivals and eventseach year! the monkeys, who have become renowned for its dry, deep andHOKKAIDO 4 Day one of the most photographed consistent powder snow quality,Day 1 Sapporo sights in Japan. Yudanaka also has and huge variety of terrain. TheArrive at the airport and transfer tothe JR Tower Hotel by shuttle bus. many temples and historic village has a lively après-ski sceneThe rest of the day is at leisure. buildings for you to explore. and hot springs for you to try.Day 2 Full Day City Tour (B)Enjoy a full day city tour of ZENKOJI and SNOW HAKUBA SKI RESORTSapporo including visits to theHistoric Village of Hokkaido, MONKEY TOUR 3 Day 5 DayHitsujigaoka Observatory Hill andSapporo Beer Museum. Day 1 Zenkoji Temple (LD) Day 1 HakubaDay 3 Sapporo (B) Catch a Bullet train to Nagano, Leave Tokyo for Hakuba by expressDay at leisure. where you will be met and taken to bus. Make your way to the HakubaDay 4 Depart (B) the Soba Museum for a tour andDay at leisure until your transfer to Tokyu Hotel.the airport by shuttle bus for your lunch. Later visit the Togakushionward journey. Shrine, then stay and dine at Zenkoji Days 2-4 Hakuba Ski Resort (B) Prices Temple. Enjoy the skiing and onsen, at Price from £499 Day 2 Issano Komichi Biyu No Hakuba Happo-one Winter Resort. Including return airport transfers, English speaking guide on arrival, Yado (BD) Day 5 Depart (B) 3 nights standard accommodation, Full Day Sapporo City tour, meals Visit the Zenkoji Temple and an Today you will leave from Hakuba for as specified (B=Breakfast) excursion to Obuse by train. Take your journey back to Tokyo. the train to Yudanaka, and your ryokan with onsen, the Issano Komichi Biyu No Yado. A Japanese dinner will be served. Day 3 Snow Monkeys (B) Prices Visit “Snow Monkey Park (Yaen Koen)”. Then return to Tokyo by Price from £999 train. Including 4 nights superior Prices accommodation, meals as specified (B=Breakfast), 3 day Hakuba Price from £999 Happo-one ski pass, 3 day ski, ski boots and stock set, Express bus Including English speaking guide on Tokyo - Hakuba– Tokyo arrival, 1 night temple lodging, 1 night at ryokan, return bullet train Tokyo - Nagano, meals as specified(B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner) Visit your local travel agent, or call 020 8543 8133 85

THE JAPANESE ALPSThe Japan Alps, also known as the “Chubu Sangaku National Park” is home to world-famous ski resortsand fascinating sightseeing opportunities. Excellent transport links allow visitors to move from one site toanother, making for a truly memorable holiday.TAKAYAMA, SHIRAKAWAGO AND NAKASENDO WAY 4 DayKANAZAWA 6 Day Discover the Nakasendo Way, one of Japan’s ancientEnjoy a tour of the Japanese Alps, exploring highways, connecting Kyoto and Tokyo during the EdoTakayama’s historic Edo-period streets, discovering the period. Explore the route along the Kiso Valley,traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses of Shirakawago, uncovering some of the ancient post stations such asand admiring the exquisite gardens in Kanazawa. Tsumago and Magome.Day 1 Takayama Day 1 MatsumotoArrive Takayama and make your way to your Arrive Matsumoto and make your way to your hotel.accommodation. The rest of the day is at leisure. The rest of the day is at leisure.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 walkTakayama-Jinya, Matsuri no Mori and the charming from Yabuharajuku to Naraijuku, about 6km.Kamisannomachi Street. Overnight stay at a Minshuku in Naraijuku.Day 3 Takayama to Shirakawago (B) Day 3 Nakasendo Walking Trail (BD)Take a bus to enchanting Shirakawago. Afternoon at Take the train from Narai to Nakatsugawa, and walkleisure to discover the famous gasshou-zukuri from Magomejyuku to Tsumagojyuku, about 9km, forfarmhouses, which are more than 250 years old. an overnight stay at a Minshuku.Day 4 Shirakawago to Kanazawa (B) Day 4 Kyoto (B)Catch a bus to Kanazawa, and make your way to the From Nagiso take the train to Nakatsugawa and on tohotel to check in. The rest of the day is at leisure. Nagoya, for a bullet train to Kyoto.Day 5 Kanazawa (B)Day at leisure to uncover Kanazawa. Perhaps visit therenowned Kenrokuen Garden, marvel at the exhibits inthe museum and experience the old Samurai houses.Day 6 Depart (B)Check out of your hotel for your onward journey.Prices PricesPrice from £627 Price from £450Including 5 nights standard accommodation, Including 1 night standard accommodation, 2 nights intransportation as specified, meals as specified traditional Minshuku, meals as specified (B=Breakfast, D=Dinner), transportation by train(B=Breakfast)86 Visit www.linkstravelandtours.co.uk for more details

JAPAN – Tailor - MadeMOUNT FUJI CLIMB 2 Day KUMANO KODO PILGRIMAGE ROUTE 4 DayThis two day programme offers a guided climb ofMount Fuji. After a long hike on the first day, you can This journey takes you along one of Japan’s ancientenjoy a hot meal and a few hours rest, pilgrimage routes, the Kumano Kodo. Staying inbefore continuing the climb to the summit in time for Minshuku, visiting sacred sites and remote villages.sunrise. Day 1 Kawayu Onsen (D)Day 1 Ascent of Mount Fuji (D) Take the train to Kii-Tanabe; receive an orientationMeet at Tochomae Station for a briefing and briefing and catch a bus to Kawayu Onsen, for antransfer to Mount Fuji’s 5th Station. Begin overnight stay and dinner.climbing, arriving at the 8th Station for a hot meal anda few hours rest. Day 2 Yunomine Onsen (BLD) Your luggage will be transferred separately. WalkDay 2 Descent of Mount Fuji (B) across Kumano Kodo Hosshinmon-oji as far asWake at around 1.30am and continue your climb to Kumano Hongu Taisha, visiting the heritage centrethe summit, arriving in time for sunrise and breakfast. and Oyunohara. Continue from Hongu to YunomineDescend to Mount Fuji’s 5th Station, and your transfer Onsen-Daichi-Goe, and overnight with dinner, atback to Shinjuku Station. Kosakaya. Day 3 Katsura Onsen (BD) Your luggage will be transferred separately. Catch the bus to Hitari and a boat across the Kumano River. Visit Kumano Hayatama Taisha, move on to Shingu-Nachi-Daimonzaka Chusajo and walk to Kumano Nachi Taisha, visiting Seiganto-ji and Nachi Falls. Take the bus to Katsuura andstay at Yamane, where dinner will be served.Prices Day 4 Osaka (B) Take the train from Katsuura to Shin-Osaka, for yourPrice from £450 onward journey.Including 1 night accommodation at a Japanese Pricesstyle mountain hut, meals as specified (B=Breakfast,D=Dinner), English speaking guide, transportation as Price from £1,499specified Including 3 nights traditional Minshuku accommodation, meals as specified (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner), transportation as specified, English speaking guideVisit your local travel agent, or call 020 8543 8133 87

Okinawa and IshigakiOkinawaOkinawa prefecture can be divided into three major groups, the Okinawa Shoto, the Miyako Retto, and the Yaeyama Retto. The seassurrounding Okinawa’s islands are considered among the world’s most beautiful, filled with coral reefs and marine wildlife, so snorkellingand scuba diving are extremely popular activities.Okinawa Main Island IshigakiOkinawa Main Island can be more or less split into three different The beautiful coastlines which surround Ishigaki are filled withzones, north, central and south. The North is brimming with verdant glorious white-sand beaches, some net-protected and ideal forforests, the Central area is home to a wide variety of cultures, while families. Others more secluded and just metres from coral reefs, arethe South is brimming with historic temples. perfect for snorkelling.OKINAWA 4 Day ISHIGAKI 5 DayDay 1 Arrive Okinawa (D) Day 1 Arrive IshigakiArrive at the airport, where you will be met and transferred to the Arrive Ishigaki Airport where you will collect your hire car and driveRizzan Sea Park Hotel Tancha Bay or the Laguna Garden Hotel for to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure.a three-night stay with dinner each night. The rest of the day is atleisure. Days 2-4 Ishigaki (B) Days at leisure to relax on the beach and make use of your hire carDays 2-3 Okinawa (BD) by exploring the 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. Drive to the airport and return your rental car.Day 4 Depart (B) AccommodationDay at leisure until your transfer to the airport. Grandvrio Resort Ishigakijima Grandvrio Garden The resort is located right beside the beautiful white-sand beach.Accommodation There are outdoor and indoor swimming pools as well as hot springRizzan Sea Park baths and a choice of restaurants.Located in the central part of Okinawa Main Island, on the westcoast, right beside the dazzling white-sand beach. There are various Fusaki Resort & Villagedining options available and the resort has an indoor and outdoor Located on Fusaki Beach, the resort has an outdoor swimming pool,swimming pool. a spa, several dining options, and is just a 15-minute walk from the Harbour.Laguna Garden HotelThe hotel is located on the west coast of the main island, a shortwalk from the beach. There is a large freeform outdoor swimmingpool. Comfortable guestrooms have modern amenities.Prices PricesPrice from £850 Price from £1,799Including return airport transfers, English speaking guide Including 4 days car hire, 4 nights superioron arrival, 3 nights superior accommodation, daily accommodation, daily breakfast.breakfast and dinner.© Okinawa Convention Visitors Bureau © Okinawa Convention Visitors Bureau88 Visit www.linkstravelandtours.co.uk for more details

JAPAN RAIL PASS JAPAN – Tailor - MadeThe Japan Rail Pass offers excellent value for money, especially if you are planning to visit several destinations during yourstay, as it is valid for travel on the entire Japan Railways network, including the famous Shinkansen bullet trains (except for theNozomi 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 departurefrom 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 inJapan. 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 passesavailable. Below are some sample itineraries for making the most of your travel experiences with a JR Pass.Highlights of Honshu Hokkaido Trail Kyushu ExploredExplore Japan’s main island of Honshu by Japan’s northern island of Hokkaido Kyushu is Japan’s third largest island, itrail, visiting many of the country’s major is vast, but many of the main cities is located southwest of the main islandcities and cultural sites, from Tokyo to can effectively be explored by train. of Honshu and has a superb network ofOsaka. With wonderful memories made This round trip from Sapporo, visits Limited Express trains allowing foralong the way! the fascinating towns of Asahikawa, exploration of most of the main cities Abashiri and Kushiro. on the island.Day 1 TokyoDay 2 Tokyo – Nikko - Tokyo Day 1 Hakodate – Sapporo Day 1 FukuokaDay 3 Tokyo – Kamakura - Tokyo Day 2 Sapporo Day 2 FukuokaDay 4 Tokyo – Hakone Day 3 Sapporo – Asahikawa Day 3 Fukuoka – NagasakiDay 5 Hakone – Nagano Day 4 Asahikawa Day 4 NagasakiDay 6 Nagano – Takayama Day 5 Asahikawa – Abashiri Day 5 Nagasaki – KumamotoDay 7 Takayama Day 6 Abashiri Day 6 KumamotoDay 8 Takayama – Kanazawa Day 7 Abashiri – Kushiro Day 7 Kumamoto – KagoshimaDay 9 Kanazawa – Kyoto Day 8 Kushiro Day 8 KagoshimaDay 9 Kyoto Day 9 Kushiro – Sapporo Day 9 Kagoshima – OitaDay 10 Kyoto – Nara – Kyoto Day 10 Depart Day 10 OitaDay 11 Kyoto – Hiroshima Day 11 Oita – FukuokaDay 12 Hiroshima – Miyajima – Hiroshima Day 12 DepartDay 13 Hiroshima – OsakaDay 14 DepartNINJA WIFI 89Keep your friends and family up to date with your adventures by updating yoursocial media or messaging them on the go. Links Travel & Tours is pleased tooffer 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

JAPAN RUGBY TOURS There is rugby in Japan from 20 September until 2 November 2019. If you are travelling to Japan to take in some matches, why not combine this with seeing some of the incredible sights the country has to offer. We can help with your travel arrangements and can create an itinerary tailored specifically for your set travel dates and to fit around the matches you will be attending. Our travel advisors can advise you on the best route to incorporate some of Japan’s most iconic locations.There will be 48 matches in all, taking place across 12 venues all over the country. On the following page we have suggested some itineraries on a semi-escorted basis that we think may be of interest, but further ideas are also available on pages 82-89. Please contact us with the details of the matches you are attending and the dates you wish to travel, and we will tailor an itinerary personal to you. Call 020 8543 8133 Please note: None of the trips or tours contain match tickets for the Rugby World Cup™. Our itineraries are designed to work around your match tickets. We are not affiliated to Rugby World Cup™ and have no association with the tournament. Escorted Group Tour If you are travelling to Japan for the rugby and would like to join a group tour, please refer to pages 58-59 for details of our Essential Japan tour, which has departure dates to fit in before, during or after the tournament. This tour can also be offered on a land only basis if you are arranging your own international flights.90 Visit www.linkstravelandtours.co.uk for more details

Suggested Rugby Tour Ideas JAPAN – RugbyThe following example tours are based on travelling on an independent basis and joining guided day tours in somelocations. A Japan Rail Pass can also be added to your package enabling you to get the most out of your time in Japan atthe best value.Kobe to Tokyo 8 Days Tokyo to Hiroshima 9 DaysPrice from £1,745 Price from £2,139This eight day tour takes you from Kobe to Tokyo by train With tours of Tokyo and Kyoto included, this nine day tripusing your 7 Day Japan Rail Pass. Explore the moving encompasses the main cities in this fascinating country.sights of Hiroshima, maybe marvel at the majesty of With free time in Hakone and Hiroshima to discover theseOsaka Castle and Kyoto Imperial Palace and gaze in awe remarkable destinations at your own pace, and train travelat the inspiring Mount Fuji, before ending the tour in the included, this tour is sure to add an exciting dimension tobustling capital, Tokyo. your holiday.Explore the Japanese Alps 6 Days Tokyo to Kyoto 6 DaysPrice from £1,075 Price from £1,785Using your Japan Rail Pass, gaze at the picturesque Explore the sights of Tokyo at your own pace beforelandscapes as you travel by bus and train between enjoying a tour of Hakone and majestic Mount Fuji. Traveldestinations on this tour of the Japanese Alps. Uncover by train to Kyoto for a day tour of local UNESCO Worldthe delights of Matsumoto and Takayama, discover the Heritage Sites and an excursion to the parks and templestraditional gasshou-zukuri farmhouses in Shirakawago, of Hiroshima and Miyajima on this six day extension toand typical Samurai dwellings in Kanazawa. your rugby experienceVisit your local travel agent, or call 020 8543 8133 91

CULTURAL EXPERIENCESTo offer you a flavour of the many exciting and amazing experiences on offer in Japan, we have selected just a few to giveyou a taste of what we can deliver as part of your holiday. Whatever your interests simply let us know what you would like todo and when, and we will create your ideal holiday to Japan full of lasting memories.Special Events and Attractions Tokyo Sumo Experience & Chanko LunchJapan offers an array of sporting events, theme parks, Take part in the sumo wrestlers’ daily life by having lunchmuseums, festivals and special events, and we can arrange with them. Witness demonstrations by retired Sumo wrestlersthese local experiences as part of your Japan holiday. with stories on its history, practice and tournaments. It is alsoExperiences include watching a Sumo tournament, Formula possible to try on a Sumo costume and challenge a Sumo1 at Suzuka, Baseball, Kabuki (classical Japanese wrestler to a match. Enjoy the great taste of Chanko-nabe,dance-drama), Ghibli Musuem, Takarazuka (all-female their traditional and symbolic meal.musical theatre troupe), Tokyo Disneyland, Tokyo DisneySea,museums and local festivals. Please contact us for more Sushi Workshop Morning Tourinformation, dates and latest availability. You can experience hand-shaping and rolling sushi from aTokyo Tsukiji Outer Fish Market Tsukiji sushi chef, and of course, tasting your own work of art for lunch. Your guide will lead the tour around Tsukiji OuterA wholesale fish market in central Tokyo, Tsukiji is known as Fish Market and through the many bustling shops.one of the world’s largest fish markets handling over 2,000tons of marine products per day. The market has become atourist spot in its own right and the fascinating tuna auctionsare immensely popular. Perhaps take a morning visit to theouter market and enjoy a fresh sushi breakfast from one ofthe many restaurants or food stands.Kyoto Gion Kimono Tour Kobe Sightseeing and Nada Sake Brewery Walking TourWear an authentic Kimono (yukata, light cotton kimono,in summer months) and experience a guided walking tour Visit the Kitano-Ijinkan District and Meriken Park. After aaround the Gion district. Includes hairstyling and tabi buffet-style lunch, visit the Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum(traditional socks). Available for people up to 185cm (6’1’’) in Nada, a town famous for its sake breweries.tall and waist sizes up to 100cm (39in). Kyoto Sagano Bamboo Grove and ArashiyamaTraditional Japanese Crafts Walking TourThere are many different traditional Japanese crafts that can Visit Arashiyama, located in the western part of Kyoto,be seen or attempted to give a further insight into Japan’s famous for its bamboo grove and Tenryu-ji Temple, one ofculture. These include Ikebana flower arranging, which is Kyoto’s best Zen temples. Enjoy the beautiful landscapedconsidered to be a disciplined art form, where nature and garden and stroll through the scenic Sagano Bamboo Grove.humanity are brought together. Origami, the well-known art Visit the Jojakko-ji Temple and the Togetsu Bridge thatof Japanese paper folding, calligraphy, Japanese sweet straddles the Katsura River. Enjoy a Japanese style lunch onmaking and Japanese pottery are also popular. a Yakatabune Boat trip through Arashiyama. Train ticketsArrangements can be made to see these crafts in action or to back to Kyoto will be distributed before lunch time; when thetake part in a workshop or lesson. tour ends.92 Visit www.linkstravelandtours.co.uk for more details

Kyoto Tea Ceremony & Ginkau-ji Temple Kyoto Dinner with Maiko JAPAN – Cultural ExperienxeWalking Tour Enjoy a dinner at the traditional Ohara Gyozanen, with aVisit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ginkauji Temple, Maiko, or apprentice Geisha. The restaurant is situated in aand wander along the Philosopher’s Path. Followed by a quiet location away from downtown Kyoto, near thetraditional tea ceremony for a taste of Japanese culture. Tour Ohara-Sanzenin-Temple. After dinner, a Maiko will perform two traditional dances, and you can ask questions and takeends in Gion District. photos.Osaka Samurai Experience Calligraphy and MeditationStep back to ancient times and learn about the Samurai (old Stay overnight at a Buddhist temple where you can try yourJapanese soldier). You will learn about the Samurai etiquette, hand at the ancient writing technique of Calligraphy. Thethe costume, sword training, using the sword in fighting and following morning you can join the monks for meditation.witness a short Samurai play. You will also wear a Kimono orNinja costume.Famous Festivals and CelebrationsYou may wish to combine your holiday dates with one or more of the many colourfullocal festivals (matsuri) held in Japan throughout the year. Popular ones include:• Month Long Festival - Gion Matsuri, Kyoto (July)• Traditional Dance Festival Awa Odori, Tokushima City (August)• Snow Festival - Yuki Matsuri, Sapporo (February)• Huge Lantern Floats - Nebuta Matsuri, Aomori City (August)• Spectacular Float Racing - Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri, Kishiwada City (September)• River Procession - Tenjin Matsuri, Osaka (July)• Historical Parade - Jidai Matsuri, Kyoto (October)• Night Festival - Chichibu Yomatsuri, Saitama (December) Visit your local travel agent, or call 020 8543 8133 93

CULTURAL EXPERIENCESOnsen – Hot Spring BathsDiscover the centuries old tradition of these thermal hot baths that play a large part in Japanese culture. There are over20,000 sources of hot springs in Japan and over 3,000 accommodations that have onsen. Located all over the country, youwill find many onsen as part of the traditional Japanese Inns called ryokan (see page 97). Others are found in publicbathhouses. Depending on the chosen 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 byeight different hot springs each with ryokan and public baths express train from Osaka. Hidden in the mountains, awaywith bathing facilities. Together they produce more hot spring from the crowds of the cities, Kinosaki has quiet temples,water than any other onsen resort in the country. moss covered forests 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 fromancient cobblestone lanes and traditional wooden ryokan Osaka, Dogo Onsen is located on one of the smallest ofwhere visitors can often be seen strolling through the lanes Japan’s main islands, Shikoku. It is one of the earliest knownin their yukata. Shibu Onsen can be combined with a visit to hot spring spa towns and is famous for being an inspirationYudanaka to see the famous Snow Monkeys. for the Japanese anime film, Spirited Away, a Ghibli film.Japan’s Three Best OnsenGero 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 ahot spring resort since the 10th century. Located around 3 hours from Tokyo by A hidden treasure, this hot springThe waters here are said to help relieve train and bus, the town has been known resort is located around 40 minutes bycertain medical conditions as well as as a hot spring resort for many centuries. train from Kobe and around 1 ½ hoursrelieving fatigue and aiding skin The source of the hot spring water is the from Kyoto. With more than 1,000complexion and skin tone. nearby Mount Kusatsu-Shirane and it is years of history, the oldest onsen town said to have fantastic health benefits. in Japan, Arima Onsen has become a well-known hot spring retreat where the waters are said to have unique healing properties.94 Visit www.linkstravelandtours.co.uk for more details

JAPAN – Cultural ExperienxeTokyo Disney Resort Universal Studios JapanLocated around 50 minutes by train from Shinjuku Station, A short journey from Osaka Station, Universal Studios isTokyo Disney Resort is comprised of Tokyo Disneyland and conveniently located and easy to get to. The park offers aDisney Sea. Both parks have their own attractions, parades huge range of attractions, rides, shows and dining outletsand characters and a choice of tickets are available from 1 with 1-Day or 2-Day Studio Passes available. Explore theDay up to 4 Days. There is a range of accommodation within World of Harry Potter, enjoy the Jurassic Park ride and comeclose proximity to the Resort and a monorail operates linking face to face with a dinosaur, or discover Snoopy Studios orup many of the hotels with the parks. Sesame Street fun world. A fantastic day for all the family!Karaoke Bars Robot RestaurantKaraoke is a hugely popular pastime in Japan. There are a Located in the Shinjuku area of Tokyo, this themed restaurantlarge number of karaoke bars available, especially in the features a lively pop-culture show with robots, dancers andlarger cities such as Tokyo and Osaka. lasers to amaze you.Maid Cafes Cat Cafes Anime CafesThe unusual and eccentric phenomenon Extremely popular in Japan, there are There are many cafes celebrating theof maid cafes in Japan, where the over 150 cat cafes throughout the immensely popular culture of anime inwaitresses are dressed in maid country, mostly in the larger cities of Japan. Including the Pokeman Café,costumes, has become so hugely Tokyo and Osaka. Enjoy a drink and and the Good Smile Café which haspopular that there are now over 200 interact with the furry residents. a themed menu and restaurant décormaid cafes in Tokyo alone. depicting many different anime. The Animate Café has multiple locations throughout the country.Pop Culture – Manga and AnimeTokyo Ghibli Museum MitakaSpirited Away, Howl’s Moving Castle, and Porco Rosso are just some of the animated films celebrated at the museum createdby Hayao Miyazaki. The museum reflects the scenery and style of animated films. Exhibits include the techniques of animationand a recreation of an animation artist’s workshop. The museum is child friendly and is well worth a 2-3 hour visit. Easyaccess from the western suburbs of Tokyo.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 the month of August, featuring live performances of anime songs.• Anime Japan was established in 2014 and is usually held annually, in March, in Tokyo. A large number of anime related companies exhibit here, selling anime merchandise and there are also various performances and events. Visit your local travel agent, or call 020 8543 8133 95

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.96 Visit www.linkstravelandtours.co.uk for more details

Ryokan JAPAN – AccommodationDiscover 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 thechance to sleep on a futon. Modern beds may be an option in some ryokans. Board basis can be takenas breakfast only or with dinner, with different local cuisine served daily. To get the most from yourexperience during your stay at a ryokan we recommend including dinner with your first night’s stay. Theexterior of the ryokan may look modern, but the service is always traditional. To get a real flavour ofthe local culture an overnight stay in a ryokan is highly recommended during your holiday in Japan.MinshukuThe Japanese equivalent of guest house type lodgings, Minshukus are family-run bed and breakfastfarmhouses, with the rented rooms being part of the owners’ own home. They are often found in resortslike Kanazawa and Shirakawago, providing the ideal form of accommodation to get the trueatmosphere from these picturesque locations. These comfortable and clean homes offer a uniquecultural experience in a rustic atmosphere. Guest rooms come with tatami mat floors and a low tablewith a futon spread out to sleep on at night. The shared baths and toilets are all modern.ShokuboA truly unique experience staying at a Buddhist temple, with Buddhist vegetarian cuisine for dinner andbreakfast. Food is served in a Japanese-style dining room. In the morning you are free to attendBuddhist morning services, the Goma fire ritual and meditation. Guests can also write Buddhist textswith a brush and ink on scrolls. Areas popular for temple stays include Nagano and Mount Koya.MachiyaThese traditional wooden townhouses are found throughout Japan and are typical in the historiccapital of Kyoto. They are ideal for couples and families looking for that traditional experience withadditional home comforts, and for those seeking luxury and personal space.CapsuleCapsule hotels are also known as pod hotels. They were first developed in Osaka, in 1979 and areintended to provide basic accommodation at a low price. Space is limited but they offer a unique andfun experience. Capsule hotels can be found throughout Japan, but especially in larger cities such asTokyo 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 dueto space constraints.Visit your local travel agent, or call 020 8543 8133 97

YOUR INDOCHINA DESTINATIONS IRRAWADDY Lijiang RIVER Dali Mandalay Bagan Luang Inle Lake Prabang MYANMARTHAILAND Chiang MaiOne of Southeast Asia’s most popular destinations. Youcan find almost anything here: thick green jungles, crystal Yangonblue waters and incredible food. Exotic, yet safe; cheap, yetequipped with every modern amenity you need. Thailand THAILANDretains a culture and history all its own with a carefree peoplefamed for their smiles and their fun-seeking sanuk lifestyle. BangkokBANGKOK - A cultural phenomenon, shopping heaven andtourist treasure. It is one of the most cosmopolitan,contrasting and compelling of Asian cities. A trip here shouldinclude a memorable dinner on a cruise ship along the ChaoPhraya River, exploring the city’s dazzling Buddhist Temples,a tuk-tuk ride through the city, and a Muay Thai match.CHIANG MAI - A great base to plan trekking and raftingtrips to hill tribe villages bordering Myanmar and Laos.Besides its historic temples, you can take short excursions toelephant camps and delicious cooking classes to create thebest Thai Curries.BEACH RESORTS - Popular beach destinations include thevibrant islands of Phuket and Koh Samui, both enjoying livelyresort centres with beautiful natural scenery and first classhotels. Experience Krabi with its spectacular limestone cliffs,or visit one of the more untouched destinations such as KohPhangan, Khao Lak, Koh Lanta and the Koh Yao islands. CAMBODIA Koh Samui Probably most famous for ‘Angkor Wat’ - referred to as the Eighth Wonder of the Krabi World, Cambodia offers an insight into an ancient civilization long lost. It is a country Phuket re-emerging from decades of isolation, previously overshadowed by its thriving neighbours. Blessed with undeveloped golden beaches, unspoilt forests and beautiful old colonial cities, Cambodia is an exciting and emerging tourist destination. SIEM REAP - The temples of Angkor are the heart and soul of Cambodia. It is the epicentre of Khmer civilisation and a source of fierce national pride. The Khmer Kings of old, each sought to build bigger and better temple structures than their ancestors. The ‘temple that is a city’, Angkor Wat is the perfect fusion of creative ambition and spiritual devotion, representing heaven on earth. PHNOM PENH - The name cannot help but conjure up an image of the truly exotic; Set on a gorgeous riverside location, the glimmering spires of the royal palace, the fluttering saffron of the monks’ robes, and the luscious location on the banks of the mighty Mekong. This is one of Asia’s undiscovered gems. It’s not just another metropolis, it is an older Asia that many dreamed of when first planning their adventures overseas.98

CHONGQUING Changsha NanchangLAOS VIETNAM INDOCHINA – Travel GuideA thickly forested landscape and rugged mountains, An exotic land filled with diverse scenery, and a rich andcombine with spectacular natural attractions for thechance to experience the ‘Real Laos’. Fuzhoufascinating culture. From the green rice fields in the northGuiyangLUANG PRABANG - Perched on the banks of the to the Mekong Delta in the south, Vietnam has become the embodiment of a nation healing its wounds after theMekong and encircled by mountains, this UNESCO war and looking to develop its economy.World Heritage Site was the former capital and is now GUILIN HALONG BAY - A UNESCO World Heritage Site,the nation’s top tourist destination. Popular excursions majestic and mysterious, where thousands of smallinclude Khoung Si Waterfalls and the Pak Ou Caves. islands rise from turquoise waters, dotted with beachesVIENTIANE - This delightfully friendly capital, and grottoes created by wind and waves. Besides boatstudded with crumbling French mansions, Guangzhoucruises, there are also caves to explore.bougainvillea-blooming streets and steaming noodlestalls, has an atmosphere somewhere between a big MEKONG DELTA - Vietnam’s rice basket is a waterymarket town and a city. landscape of green fields and sleepy villages. Lined with lush rice paddies and fish farms, the Delta’s attraction is SAPA the colourful river life and floating markets. HANOI - Those looking for ancient history, colonial HALONG BAY legacy and a modern outlook can find it all in Hanoi. The Old Quarter is a great place to soak up the unique atmosphere of this bustling city. HANOI HOI AN - This was one of Southeast Asia’s major international ports; this charming town retains a senseLAOS of history in its narrow streets. A walking tour of the town centre can include the 400 year old Japanese Covered Bridge, former merchants’ houses and vibrantVientiane markets. You can also enjoy stretches of marvellous sandy white beaches.MEKONG SOUTH HO CHI MINH CITY - A vibrant city, which maintains its RIVER CHINA SEA colonial charm despite rapid development. You can find everything from designer boutiques to market bargains, HUE and world cuisine to delicious street food. Popular excursions include the Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta. DANANG SAPA - Established as a hill station by the French in MEKONG HOI AN 1922, it offers natural beauty and surrounding RIVER attractions. Sapa is also home to a multitude of ethnic minorities. Getting there is straightforward, by road orSIEM REAP VIETNAM train, both let you truly admire the picturesque surroundings.Tonle Sap Lake NHA TRANG - A sweeping crescent beach with long CAMBODIA Da Lat stretches of pristine sand, lie adjacent to this bustling seaside town. The hilltop Po Nagar Cham TowersMEKONG Nha Trang provide fascinating insight into Vietnam’s history. RIVER PHU QUOC - Located off the west coast of thePhnom Penh HO CHI MINH Mekong Delta, made up of national forest land and beautiful white sand beaches. This is the ideal place to Phan Thiet relax at the end of your holiday. Phu Quoc Mekong PHAN THIET-MUI NE - These traditional fishing Delta villages offer a range of accommodation and white GULF OF sandy beaches.THAILAND Con Dao CON DAO ISLANDS - Located off the south-east coast of mainland Vietnam, the Con Dao archipelago offers natural beauty with more than 80% of the islands forming part of a marine and national park. 99

INDOCHINA TRAVEL GUIDEHalong BaySMALL GROUP TOURS FLIGHTSJourney with like minded travellers, with the added benefit of For your convenience international flightshaving an expert tour guide on hand throughout your tour to are included in each tour. The group tourintroduce you to the cultural sights and the many varied prices are based on departing Londonexperiences these countries offer. Our tours provide great value, Heathrow with Cathay Pacific via Honggiving you a variety of options and experiences based around the Kong. It is also possible to fly direct todifferent durations and countries you wish to visit. The size of the Vietnam from London Heathrow withgroup will be up to a maximum of 20 people sharing transport, Vietnam Airlines. Regional departures fromlocal guides and meals with fellow passengers. We have carefully Manchester, Birmingham, Glasgow andselected named 4* accommodation that reflect the areas you are Newcastle are also popular, withstaying in. Meals are an important part of your holiday so you will Emirates, Etihad Airways, and Qatarhave the assistance of your guide to advise you on the many Airways being the recommend airlines. Withdishes available. There is a reasonable amount of walking a wide selection of airlines and routings oninvolved on our tours, as well as sometimes a number of steps, so offer we recommend you call one of ouryou should have good fitness levels to undertake a group tour. expert 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 the meet and greet service at the airport and return airport transfers.TAILOR-MADE JOURNEYS “We had an outstanding holiday.For those who are seeking more flexibility, further choice of We were given a thorough and delightfulaccommodation including 5* upgrades, wish to visit more places or overall introduction to Indochina.spend longer in selected locations. Then please contact us for further We wouldn’t have missed this holiday forinformation, ideas and suggested itineraries and we will tailor-make a anything!”holiday to suit you. Michael and Janet100 Visit www.linkstravelandtours.co.uk for more details