Destination Country: Japan
Regions/Cities include: Tokyo Mt Fuji Masumoto Nagano Takayama Gokayama Kanazawa Kyoto YokohamaMiyazaki Busan Sakaiminato Kanazawa Sakata	Activities include: Sightseeing & ocean cruise

Japan tour & cruise

Japan, a country of contrasts, where ancient gods rub shoulders with modern technology, skyscrapers give way to paddy fields and crowds disperse into the tranquillity of a classical garden.

Day 1: Arrive Tokyo (3 Nights) Welcome to Japan. Upon arrival at Tokyo Narita International Airport, transfer by airport shuttle service to our centrally located hotel. This evening we join our Travel Director and fellow travelers for a Welcome Reception drink and local appetizers. Hotel: New Otani Meals: Welcome Reception

Day 2: Tokyo Sightseeing This morning our City Tour begins with an orientation drive. See the Tokyo Skytree, the world's highest free-standing broadcasting tower. Continue to Asakusa and visit the Sensoji Buddhist temple. It is one of Tokyo's most colorful and popular temples and has been rebuilt countless times since it was founded in 628, making it Tokyo's oldest temple site. Visit Nakamise, a shopping street over 200 meters long that stretches from the outer gate to the temple's second interior gate. Next head to the famous Ginza district for a hands-on cooking class. Learn how to make sushi with a Local Specialist and then enjoy our sushi creations for lunch. Later choose to return to the hotel, remain in Ginza at leisure or take part in an Optional Experience. Meals: Buffet Breakfast, Lunch

Day 3: Tokyo Sightseeing Today continue our City Tour with a visit to the Edo-Tokyo Museum. This fascinating museum displays artifacts and architecture that tell a tale of Tokyo's history and culture during the Edo period. Next drive to Akihabara which began its evolution into 'Electric Town' post WWII when the area became a black market for radio parts. It now houses numerous electronics shops selling a wide range of computer goods and video games. Enjoy some free time here before heading to the Imperial Palace Plaza, a large park area in the center of Tokyo from where the two bridges that form the entrance to the inner grounds of the Imperial Palace can be viewed. It is the primary residence of the Emperor of Japan and built on the former site of Edo Castle. Take a stroll around the Imperial Palace East Gardens before returning to our hotel. Meals: Buffet Breakfast

Optional Experiences KIMONO EXPERIENCE IN ASAKUSA From cotton summer yukatas to silk kimonos, these pieces of wearable art are icons of Japanese style. Visit a specialist kimono hiring shop and have fun getting dressed up in traditional Japanese style with the assistance of an expert ‘kimono dresser’ who will show you the tricks to make it easy. Choose your preferred color of kimono which will come with a matching bag and shoes. A professional stylist will dress you in the kimono and afterwards enjoy some free time to stroll through the historic streets of Asakusa wearing your kimono! Strike a pose for camera carrying visitors or just simply act like a local and take a relaxing stroll through the streets. Great fun for both ladies and gentlemen. The price shown is in Japanese Yen. Adult Price: ¥4500.00 (approx.NZD$60.00) KOREAN BARBEQUE DINNER Take a short stroll from the hotel with our Travel Director to this popular Korean barbeque ‘samgyeopsal’ restaurant. Korean Barbeque restaurants are very popular with modern Japanese families and these restaurants can be found all over Japan. Cook your own pork on a grill at the table and eat it wrapped in leafy vegetables of which there are over 15 different varieties to choose from including lettuce and kale. The price includes two glasses of wine, beer or soft drinks per person. Chicken and vegetarian options are available for non-pork eaters. The price shown is in Japanese Yen. Adult Price: ¥5500.00 (approx. NZD$70.00)

Day 4: Tokyo – Mt. Fuji - Matsumoto – Nagano After breakfast we depart Tokyo for the Five Lakes District, dominated by majestic UNESCO listed Mt. Fuji. At 3,776 metres it is Japan's highest mountain and most recognizable icon. Ascend by road to 2,300 meters at the 5th Station before taking a ride on the Kachikachiyama Ropeway, (both weather permitting) a cable car ride offering spectacular views on a clear day of Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi. Later drive north to visit Matsumoto Castle, one of the most beautiful and complete original Japanese castles with its unique timber and stone structure. Continue to Nagano for our overnight stay with dinner at the hotel. Hotel: Shinshu-Matsushiro Royal Meals: Buffet Breakfast, Dinner

Day 5: Nagano - Takayama - Gokayama - Kanazawa (2 Nights) This morning travel through the breath-taking Japanese Alps to the beautiful hillside town of Takayama. Located in the Hida Region, the town has retained a traditional touch like few other Japanese cities, especially in its beautifully preserved old town. Begin our walking tour of Takayama, known as 'Little Kyoto', and discover its Edo style streets filled with amazing attractions. Explore the Old Town, stopping en route to sample Japanese sake, a Cultural Insight. Lunch today is a Regional Meal of Japanese Hida beef at a local restaurant. Hida beef (Hida-gyu) is the specific name given to beef from a black-haired Japanese cattle breed, it is known as one of the finest quality varieties of beef. This afternoon take a step back in time during a visit to the peaceful mountain village and UNESCO designated site of Gokayama. See the unique Gassho-zukuri wooden houses; the steeply sloped thatched roofs resemble two hands together in prayer. Later observe local artisans making washi paper and try your hand at making your own, a Cultural Insight before continuing on to the historic castle town of Kanazawa. Hotel: Kanazawa Tokyu Meals: Buffet Breakfast, Regional Meal

Day 6: Kanazawa Sightseeing This morning discover the secrets of gold leaf painting during a visit with a Local Specialist. The production of gold leaf started in Kanazawa at the end of the 16th century and now 99% of Japan's high quality gold leaf is produced in the area. Next visit the gardens of Kenrokuen, rated as one of the top three most beautiful gardens in Japan. Take your time to relax and explore the ornate landscapes, temples and ponds. Afterwards take a short walk through the Omicho market to see the local fish catch and enjoy an insiders view of everyday life in a busy coastal town. Later visit the Nagamachi District with its old and beautifully preserved samurai houses. Visit the Nomura house, an elegant samurai mansion with beautiful small gardens belonging to a high-ranked samurai family. Meals: Buffet Breakfast

Optional Experiences JAPANESE TEA HOUSE Experience the ambience of a traditional Japanese Tea House, located in the beautiful tranquil Kenroku-en Garden. A professional ‘tea maker’ can spend many years learning their craft, which is often presented in a ceremony influenced by Zen Buddhism. Powdered green tea (matcha) is prepared by adding hot water and mixing it with a bamboo whisk. Enjoy sampling the tea in the Shigure-tei Tea House and also take the opportunity to try some Japanese sweets. Afterwards enjoy a stroll in the garden, which is regarded as one of Japan’s three most beautiful gardens. The price shown is in Japanese Yen. Adult Price: ¥720.00 (approx. NZD$15.00) IZAKAYA DINING EXPERIENCE Join our Travel Director for a different kind of Japanese dining experience! An ‘izakaya’ is a type of informal Japanese gastropub where the food is shared by everyone at the table (similar to Spanish tapas). The menu changes according to the season but generally includes a small Japanese appetizer, sashimi, Japanese salad and some fried dishes such as potato, chicken and squid. The main dish is Japanese style dumplings known as ‘Gyoza’ which are very popular in Japan and featured on the menu at many izakaya establishments. The price includes two glasses of wine, beer or soft drinks per person. Vegetarian options are available for non-meat eaters. The price shown is in Japanese Yen. Adult Price: ¥4500.00 (approx. NZD$60.00)

Day 7: Kanazawa - Kyoto (2 Nights) This morning leave Kanazawa for Kyoto by Express train. On arrival enjoy a special Be My Guest lunch at a traditional ryokan nestled in the peace and quiet of Mt. Yoshida. The ryokan was built in 1932 by master craftsmen to serve as the second residence of the uncle of the current Japanese Emperor, Akihito. Learn more about local Japanese customs as your hosts welcome us into their beautiful home. Enjoy the pleasures of a truly flavourful and unique dining experience of Kaiseki cuisine, crafted from the very freshest of seasonal delicacies. After lunch visit Kinkakuji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its Golden Pavilion. The Kinkakuji history dates back to 1397, when the villa was purchased by Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. When Yoshimitsu died, the building was converted into a Zen temple by his son. Later check in to our hotel for a relaxing evening. Hotel: Nikko Princess Kyoto Meals: Buffet Breakfast, Be My Guest Dining

Optional Experiences GION CORNER, KYOTO The Gion corner is a unique experience where you can observe seven of Kyoto’s traditional performing arts, all on one stage. See a Bunraku puppet play; A UNESCO listed traditional Japanese puppet performance. Listen to the wonderful harmonies of Koto Music, as a master plays an ancient six stringed zither using ivory plectrums worn on their fingers. Watch Kyo-Mai, an elegant and dazzling dance performed by Maiko dancers in beautiful and ornate dress. Enjoy a performance of Kyogen Theatre, a comical play portraying humorous stories of daily life. Experience Gagaku (court music), the indigenous Japanese music performed at imperial court shrines and temples. During the evening observe the art of creating flower arrangements and a traditional ‘Ryurei style’ tea ceremony. There is also a Maiko Gallery, displaying costumes, hair decorations and videos of Maiko Dancers. NB. The price shown is in Japanese Yen. Adult Price: ¥4200.00 (approx. NZD$55.00)

Day 8: Kyoto Sightseeing This morning visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine and see the tunnel of thousands of bright orange torii gates that snake through the forest up into the mountains. Then head to the Sanjusangen-do Hall, a temple famous for its 1001 statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy and afterwards enjoy a walking tour of the Gion area. Choose to remain in Gion to explore further or return to the hotel. This evening join our Travel Director and fellow guests for a Farewell Dinner at the Ninja Kyoto restaurant. Venture into the mysterious labyrinth and secret fortress of the Ninjas, the traditional Japanese heroes and enjoy the creative Ninja-style food. Meals: Buffet Breakfast, Farewell Dinner

Day 9: Depart Kyoto - Osaka Today we will be transferred from our hotel to the train station for our train to Yokohama. Meals: Buffet Breakfast

8 Night Cruise sailing from Yokohama roundtrip aboard Diamond Princess. Diamond Princess is a luxury destination in itself. Wake each morning in anticipation of a new horizon 2,670 passengers, Tonnage 115,875 GT and 1,100 crew. Indulge in a hot stone massage at the renowned Lotus Spa, enjoy fine dining in a formal or relaxed atmosphere and make it a cruise to remember.

Highlights of this cruise: Yokohama Yokohama and Edo began life as sleepy fishing villages. That changed in the early 17th century after Tokugawa Ieyasu became Shogun. Edo became the center of political power in Japan, a position the city retained even after the restoration of Imperial rule in 1866. Contemporary Tokyo may be the most astonishing city on earth. It's a paradoxical mix of ancient tradition and postmodern culture. The Ginza - an international shopping mecca - stands near the serene grounds of the Imperial Palace, and the hyper-speed of 21st century consumerism is mysteriously reconciled with the elegance and serenity of traditional culture. Tokyo provides the traveler with a dizzying experience. With the Meiji Restoration of 1868, Edo was renamed Tokyo, the "Eastern Capital," to distinguish it from the old imperial capital at Kyoto, the "Western Capital."

Busan The second largest city in South Korea, Busan is your gateway to a fascinating land whose culture is a unique amalgam of old and new. Modern high-rise towers dwarf ancient Buddhist temples. The city's bustling business district offers a stark contrast to the serene grounds of Yongdusan Park. In short, Busan is a microcosm of South Korea, a nation whose startling economic success often obscures one of Asia's most sophisticated and venerable cultures. Busan was the scene of bitter fighting during the Korean War. The United Nations Memorial Cemetery marks the final resting place for the troops from 16 nations who gave their lives during the conflict.

Kanazawa Kanazawa, which means "marsh of gold," draws its name from an old legend in which a Japanese peasant, digging for potatoes, found flakes of gold in the ground. Today, gold leaf is a major art form synonymous with the city, and even has a designated museum. A City of Crafts and Folk Art, Kanazawa is also known for its intricate kaga-nui embroidery and delicate kutani porcelain, among other handicrafts, making it a shopper's paradise! There's also no shortage of history in this coastal city. Once boasting geisha houses and a labyrinthine samurai village, the city was built around Kanazawa Castle. Fire destroyed all but a few small 16th-century castle structures - namely the elegant Ishikawa Gate and some watchtowers that have become a focus of many a photograph today. Just outside the castle park blooms the enchanting Kenroku-en Garden, one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan, and the home of the country's oldest fountain.

Includes:

? Return Shuttle Transfer Services To Auckland  (if you live in Rotorua, Cambridge or Hamilton) ? 1 nights accommodation at the Novotel Auckland Airport Hotel ? Return Economy class Airfares and Taxes flying Air New Zealand – Auckland/Narita/Auckland ? All transfers as stated in the itinerary above ? 9 day Trafalgar “Splendours of Japan” Tour ? 8 Buffet breakfasts, 3 lunches (including “Be My Guest”), and 3 Dinners on tour ? All transportation as shown on tour ? Bullet Train from Kyoto to Yokohama ? 9 Day Princess Cruise on-board Diamond Princess roundtrip from Yokohama back to Yokohama based on Ocean View cabin ? Includes US$100.00 on-board credit per cabin ? All Port Charges, Government fees, taxes, all meals, and entertainment on board the ship are all included ? Day Room at Narita Airport ? Services of Professional Tour Escort from Auckland

Cost:

From NZ$11,498 per person twin share. 

Options to twin share for solo travellers based on availability.

$15,998 single

Cost is subject to change until confirmed and paid in full.