Tour to Japan - 05-OCT-2024 to 12-OCT-2024 >>>>>>>>>>>>

 

Tour to Japan - 05-OCT-2024 to 12-OCT-2024

Japan is country comprising of culture that can be traced back by centuries and is also very distinct from that of other cultures in the world. Japan is known to the world as the land of the Samurai and also of Buddism. Buddhism was first introduced to Japan from Baekje of Korea, but the subsequent development of Japanese Buddhism was primarily influenced by China. Despite early resistance, Buddhism was promoted by the ruling class and gained widespread acceptance beginning in the period of King Asoka of India. The Second World War marks the great twist in Japan’s course as it was part of Axis powers of Germany and Italy. On December 7, 1941, Japanese forces carried out surprise attacks on Pearl Harbor, attacks on British forces in Malaya, Singapore, and Hong Kong and declared war, bringing the US and the UK into World War II in the Pacific. After the Soviet invasion of Manchuria and the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945, Japan agreed to an unconditional surrender on August 15. The war cost Japan and the rest of the Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere millions of lives and left much of the nation's industry and infrastructure destroyed. 

In 1947, Japan adopted a new constitution emphasizing liberal democratic practices. The Allied occupation ended with the Treaty of San Francisco in 1952 and Japan was granted membership in the United Nations in 1956. Japan later achieved rapid growth to become the second-largest economy in the world, until surpassed by China in 2010. This ended in the mid-1990s when Japan suffered a major recession. In the beginning of the 21st century, positive growth has signaled a gradual economic recovery. On March 11, 2011, Japan suffered the strongest earthquake in its recorded history; this triggered the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster, one of the worst disasters in the history of nuclear power.

Japan's population is estimated at around 127 million, with 80% of the population living on Honshū. Japanese society is linguistically and culturally homogeneous, composed of 98.5% ethnic Japanese, with small populations of foreign workers. Zainichi Koreans, Zainichi Chinese, Filipinos, Brazilians mostly of Japanese descent, and Peruvians mostly of Japanese descent are among the small minority groups in Japan. Japan has the second longest overall life expectancy at birth of any country in the world: 84.4 years. The Japanese population is rapidly aging as a result of a post–World War II baby boom followed by a decrease in birth rates. The changes in demographic structure have created a number of social issues, particularly a potential decline in workforce population and increase in the cost of social security benefits like the public pension plan. A growing number of younger Japanese are not marrying or remain childless.

Urban/ Rural Population: Japan is a majorly urbanized population with 93.5% of the total population (2015) living in urban areas. Major urban areas, with respect to population, are Tokyo, Osaka-Kobe, Nagoya, Kitakyushu-Fukuoka, Shizuoka-Hamamatsu and Sapporo (2015). 

Gender Statistics: As per the World Population Prospects (By United Nations), in 2015 the country's population was 126,573,481, of which 61,558,578 were male and 65,014,903 were female. The population distribution for Japan by gender and age groups.   Japan has full religious freedom based on Article 20 of its Constitution. Upper estimates suggest that 84–96 percent of the Japanese population subscribe to Buddhism or Shinto, including a large number of followers of a syncretism of both religions. However, these estimates are based on people affiliated with a temple, rather than the number of true believers. Fewer than one percent of Japanese are Christian. Other minority religions include Islam, Hinduism, Sikhism, and Judaism, and since the mid-19th century numerous new religious movements have emerged in Japan. 

From modern metropolis Tokyo, to imperial Kyoto, quiet bamboo forests to the iconic Mt. Fuji, we’ll experience everything that is wacky and wonderful in this small-yet-mighty country: elegant golden temples and the quicksilver speed of bullet trains, the charm of Nara’s deer and the delicious food in Nishiki market - we’ll do it all! Our extraordinary journey begins in the bustling metropolis of Tokyo where we’ll explore its captivating blend of ancient traditions and modern marvels. From the fashionable streets of Harajuku to the elegant Imperial Palace and the historic Senso-ji temple to the incredible view of the cityscape from Tokyo Tower, Japan’s capital will leave an indelible mark on your senses. Next, we’ll venture towards the iconic Mount Fuji, where you'll discover a stunning landscape that embodies the essence of Japan's natural beauty. Marvel at the crystal-clear waters of quaint Oshino Hakkai village and Lake Kawaguchi, their reflections mirroring the majestic silhouette of Mount Fuji. Ride the Kachi Kachi Ropeway to the summit of Mt. Tenjo and be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views. 

We’ll jump on one of Japan’s famous legendary bullet trains to Hiroshima, a city that has triumphed over adversity to become a symbol of peace and resilience. Explore its rich history and poignant memorials, before experiencing the serene beauty of Miyajima Island, with its iconic scarlet Itsukushima Shrine. Our adventure continues in Kyoto, a city that is a timeless beauty. Visit the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, be dazzled by the golden beauty of Kinkakuji Temple, walk the incredible photogenic Fushimi Inari Taisha trail lined by 100s of fiery red torii gates, and savour the heady smells and sights of fresh food at Nishiki Food Market. Nara’s charm is the perfect way to top off our trip. This city is all about quietly charming experiences that you’ll cherish forever: hand-feeding crackers to the friendly local deer that roam freely in the Park, taking a sip of sacred waters, and visiting a lovely green forest Shrine that makes you feel like you’re in a Studio Ghibli movie. And all throughout, indulge in plenty of only-in-Japan experiences - a bowl of spicy Ramen, singing karaoke at a cafe, fortune-telling at a Shinto shrine, admiring the kimonos worn by Japanese women - that will make your time here truly captivating

A unique experience at Planet Team-lab A mind-bending, immersive adventure where cutting-edge technology will transport you to realms where you can walk through a digital waterfall or wade in a pool of floating flowers. Visit Himeji Castle step back in time and explore one of Japan's most spectacular and well-preserved historical castles. Chance to spot Geishas on our Gion Nightwalk See real-life Geishas dressed in beautiful kimonos glide gracefully along Kyoto's cobble-stone streets, and learn about the lifestyle and culture of these famous artisan performers. Enjoy a tea ceremony in Kyoto Experience the beauty, art and ritual of an authentic Japanese tea ceremony - learn the time-honoured traditional steps in the preparation of the tea, and then enjoy a cup yourself along with traditional Japanese sweets. Hand-feed crackers to deer at Nara Park Experience the unique joy of hand-feeding cracker.

Enjoy the sights at Lake Kawaguchiko Relish the beauty of Lake Kawaguchiko as on a clear day its crystal-clear waters reflect the stunning Mount Fuji, creating a picture-perfect image. Tour of Hiroshima Step into the storied city of Hiroshima and let its profound history and resilient spirit unfold before your eyes on a short tour. The sights, sounds and sensations of Tokyo From neon-lit skyscrapers to ancient temples, bustling shopping streets to imperial palaces, dive into the thrills and escapades you’ll only find in this city. Prime time in Kyoto + Tokyo Instead of a typical 2 short-nights stay, enjoy 4 nights in each of these iconic cities - allowing you to fully explore and enjoy their captivating attractions and experiences - without any hurry or compromise. Centrally-located, comfortable, hotels Our hotels are handpicked to let..

They are conveniently located next to must-see sights and the best neighbourhoods (for instance our hotel in Tokyo is extremely close to the famous Shibuya crossing) so that you can explore exciting areas like Golden Gai in Tokyo and Pontocho Alley in Kyoto easily in the evenings. Superior Rooms in all the hotels (standard rooms are tiny in Japan, so we have picked a higher category) Travel in a small group of 8 - 12 ladies maximum We keep our group sizes small so that you can enjoy the camaraderie of a small group, make new friends, and yet find your own space. 

Tour period from 05-10-2024 to 13-10-2024

Airline : MALAYSIAN                                             

 

Sector	Via	Date	Flight	Departure	Arrival	Status
MUMBAI-KUALALUMPUR		05/10/2024	MH175	13:00	21:00	OK
KUALALUMPUR-OSAKA		05/10/2024	MH52	22:25	05:45	OK
NARITA-KUALALUMPUR		12/10/2024	MH089	10:20	16:45	OK
KUALALUMPUR-MUMBAI		12/10/2024	MH194	19:35	22:51	OK

           Hotel/Stay scheduled:

Place	Check In	Check Out	Nights	Hotel Name & Address	Remark
OSAKA	06/10/2024	08/10/2024	2	ANA CROWN PLAZA 1-3-1 DOJIMAHAMA, KITA-KU Tel: +81 6 6347 1112 Fax : +81 6 6348 9208	RQ
NAGOYA	08/10/2024	09/10/2024	1	NAGOYA TOKYU HOTEL 4 CHOME-6-8 SAKAE NAKA WARD AICHI 460-0008 Tel: +81522512411 Fax : .	RQ
HAKONE	09/10/2024	10/10/2024	1	HOTEL CLAD 2839-1 FUKASAWA GOTEMBA SHIZUOKA Tel: +81550810321 Fax :	RQ
TOKYO	10/10/2024	12/10/2024	2	ASAKUSA VIEW HOTEL 3-17-1 NISHIASAKUSA, TAITO-KU Tel: 00838471111 Fax : 0081338422117	RQ

Japan: Osaka 2N, Hiroshima, Nara; Kyoto, Nagoya lN, Hakone lN, Tokyo 2N

Day-1. Osaka - Nara - Osaka - 06/10/2024 Dinner

Arrive in Osaka It's known for its modern architecture. On arrival proceeded to Nara - once the capital of Japan. Visit the Todai-ji temple, which houses the largest Buddha statue in Japan followed by visit to Nara Deer Park - home to hundreds of freely roaming deer, which are considered as messengers of Gods and also been designated as National Treasure. In the evening stroll around Dotonbori district - a popular tourist and entertainment area characterized by its eccentric atmosphere and large illuminated signboards.

Day-2. Osaka - Hiroshima - Osaka - 07/10/2024 Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Proceeded to Hiroshima by bullet train. On arrival will do orientation tour of Hiroshima, the city devastated by atomic bomb in World War II. Visit the Bomb dome, the symbol of Hiroshima and the only building to remain standing after the atomic explosion. See the Peace Memorial Park with its Museum. The Cenotaph with its arched tomb is a tribute to those who died because of the bomb. Next enjoy a ferry ride to Miyajinrn Island, to view the beautiful Itsukushima Shrine and the floating Torii - one of Japan's most scenic spots.  Later return back to Osaka.

Day-3. Osaka - Kyoto - Nagoya - 08/10/2024 Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine - the deity of a good harvest and success in business, Fushimi lnari Taisha is the head of all of Japan's Inari shrines. Later proceed to Kyoto, one of the most beautiful city of Japan. Visit the gardens of Golden Pavilion (Kinkakuji Temple), which houses sacred relics of Buddha. Visit Kiyomizu Temple. Visit Arashiyama bamboo grove - a mesmerizing grove of thousands of tall bamboo plants and one of the Kyoto's most photographed sights. Also enjoy Sagano Romantic train from Kameoka Station to Arashiyama. We take a brief phtostop at Togetsukyo bridge, a 400 year old scenic bridge. Proceed to Nagoya  - one of the nation's most important transportation hubs, historical centers and industrial powerhouses.

Day-4.  Nagoya - Hakone - 09/10/2024 Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Proceeded to Hakone. En route visit to Toyota Museum which showcases the worldwide history of automobiles and automobile culture.. Arrive in Hakone. Next visit Owakudani Boiling Valley (subject to operation). Take a rope way ide into the volcanic zone of a number of steam vents and bubbling pools. You can purchase an egg co.oked m the naturally hot water whose shells are blackened by the sulfur and which are said to prolong one's life by seven years. Later enjoy Pirate cruise from Togendai Station to Motohakone - Ko Station.

Day-5. Hakone - Mt.Fuji - Tokyo - I0/10/2024 Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Visit Mt Fuji's 5th Station, which lies about halfway up the mountain for     more incredible views (in case of bad weather .or winter, we will visit - uji     Visitor Center - a scientific pavilion which features the theme of nature, the  history, culture of Mt Fu31). Proceed to Tokyo by coach. Later visit Shibuya Sky- a 360° open-air