Japan is an intricate blend of East and West. Delve into this society with its deep traditions and customs and find a nation that leads the world in innovation, style and progress. Discover Japan Classic 2009 GPA 6 14 Max 14, Avg 10 Asia Japan Tokyo Tokyo Japan Japan Culture/History, Wildlife/Nature 14 2 Standard http://www.gapadventures.com/images/banners/japan/japan_geisha_2.jpg Arrive in Tokyo at any time. Nestled in the mountains, this town retains an old charm nurtured by its ryokans, sake breweries and craft shops. Don't miss a visit to the Peace Park, the famous Torii Gate, and, after a short ferry ride, Miyajima Island – the Island of Shrines. A thriving center for Western trade and culture. Feeling brave? Try the local specialty Fugu, or blowfish, for lunch. The centre of artistic and cultural history in Japan, Kyoto will leave you breathless with its temples, gardens and traditional courtyards. If you're lucky, you may catch a glimpse of a geisha popping into a teahouse in the narrow alleyways of Gion. Spend the night at the base of one of the most famous mountains in the world. Get lost in the throngs of pilgrims, families and school groups who come to make the ascent. Take part in some last minute shopping for high tech gadgets upon your return to this exciting city. Tokyo, the capital of Japan, is one of the most modern cities in the world. It seems that every person on the streets has the latest version of everything. Ginza, is full of department stores selling the latest fashions, Akihabara is the place to try the latest new gadgets before they become available in the West and Shinjuku is the fast paced night club area. However, if you look under the glossy surface, Tokyo is still very traditional.

Ladies still wear kimonos around town, people go to temples like Senso-ji to say a few prayers on their way to work and couples get married in their traditional wedding gowns in the beautiful grounds around the Meiji Shrine. In spring, couples, families and friends sit beneath trees sipping sake and admiring the cherry blossoms. Catch a performance of the traditional Kabuki plays in the park or, if you are fortunate enough, see the Sumo wrestlers throw each other out of the ring during one of the few ‘Bashos’ held each year.
Take an early morning visit to the Tsukiji fish market and take part in the theatrical bidding at the tuna auction! Afterwards take the bullet train for the first time. Transfer at Nagoya and journey into the Japan Alps and arrive in Takayama in the afternoon, far from the modern life of Tokyo. It is an approx. 2 hr bullet train journey to Nagoya and approx 2 hr train journey to Takayama

Nestled in the Japan Alps, Takayama earned the nickname of ‘Little Tokyo’ because of its skilled craftspeople who built houses and temples for the Emperors in Kyoto. Takayama is home to many old wooden houses which are unique in their design as they were built to withstand the harshness of the climate and terrain here. Takayama has something for everyone: visit the ‘Praying Hand’ houses at the Hida Folk Village, watch the Festival Floats at Yatai Kaikan or simply walk around the houses and stop for a cup of sake at one of the local breweries. Plus there is the lovely forest walk past numerous small shrines for those who want a little more excercise.

Take a full day to explore this beautiful landscape. Discover traces of a feudal past in the thatched houses and rice fields. An optional bike ride takes you well beyond the town centre.

Travel by train and tram to Hiroshima for a visit to the Peace Park. Continue by ferry to Miyajima, an idyllic, little island. See the sun set over the famous ‘floating’ Torii Gate.

Perhaps more than any city in the world, Hiroshima is famous for one moment in history. On 6 August 1945, it became the first target of an atomic bomb. Unlike most Japanese cities Hiroshima is full of wide boulevards and is fundamentally an industrial city. The large Peace Park in the centre of the city is an extremely moving place dotted with memorials of those known to have been killed in the explosion and those that died as a result. At the
heart of the park are the remnants of Gembaku Dome. It was directly above this building that the bomb exploded, decimating all but the Dome immediately below. A burning flame waits in the park to be extinguished when
all nuclear weapons in the world have been destroyed.

In the Inland Sea, not far from the coast near Hiroshima, you will find perhaps the most photographed shrine in Japan - The Tori Gate. The shrine itself dates back to the 6th century and is designed in a pier like structure, as mere 'commoners' were not allowed to set foot on this holy place. Miyajima is a busy place with many Japanese tourists visiting during the day, however the island is much more relaxing in the evening.
Continue to Nagasaki where, after overnighting, spend a a full free day exploring this fascinating city. Take this opportunity to visit Glover gardens, the Dutch Museum, Chinatown or take a harbour cruise.

To the vast majority of non-Japanese, Nagasaki is known only as the target of the second atomic bomb that brought WWII to a close. However there is much more to this city. For many centuries, during the years of self imposed Japanese isolation from the rest of the world, Nagasaki acted as the only port trading with the outside. The legacy of this can still be seen, both in the exciting China town (Japan’s largest) and the Dutch port, clearly reflecting the most successful traders of the period. Nagasaki is also a natural harbour and a cruise around it is recommended. Wake early and depart for the impressive Himeji Castle, also known as the ‘White Egret’. It is regarded as the most spectacular castle in Japan with its white walls making it very distinctive. The castle was constructed in several stages. It was first built as a fort in 1333 by the ruler of the Harima district, but over the years local rulers continued to add to the structure until it was finally completed in 1618. From the castle, rulers controlled much of central Japan and had an exceptional base from which to begin campaigns to wrestle control from Western and Eastern Japan. Today, the Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Continuing on to Kyoto, the former Imperial Capital and home of the country's most treasured remnants of Japanese imperial life. It is an approx. 1 hr bullet train journey from Himeji.

As the Imperial capital, Kyoto is an essential part of any visit to Japan. Kyoto has some of the most magnificent temples in Japan which date back centuries. There are said to be 2,000 temples, shrines, palaces, museums and
traditional gardens in Kyoto. Use your time to wander past huge wooden structures and multi-storied pagodas, all linked with famous walkways and marvel at the huge temples of the Hongan-ji sect or the beautiful Golden Pavilion. Take time out to enjoy the Zen gardens like Ryoan-ji and the Silver Pavilion, take a leisurely stroll down the lovely Philosopher’s path to Nanzen-ji or just walk around Gion and perhaps catch a glimpse of a Geisha going from teahouse to tea house. Discover, for a full day, the Zen gardens, huge wooden temples, pagodas and shrines.
On day 11, you leave Kyoto and travel to Kawaguchiko arriving mid afternoon. Take the rest of the afternoon to visit the Onsen Spa before dinner (included).
The itinerary varies for the next day, as it depends on the climbing season:
From July 1 - August 27 - Groups will spend 1 night in Kawaguchiko and 1 night on Mt Fuji in simple guesthouse accommodation.
From May 1-Jun 30/Aug 28-Nov 1 - Groups will spend spend 2 nights in Kawaguchiko and drive to Station 5 and hike down the mountain (not up!)
From Nov 2 - April 30 - It is not possible to climb Mt Fuji as buses do not run up the mountain. Trips will spend 2 days in Kawaguchiko and do walks around the 5 lake region.

When it is possible to climb, we begin our walk up to the summit and overnight at station 8.

It is said that a wise man climbs Mt. Fuji once; only a fool climbs it twice! At 3,776m, Fuji-San is by far the highest mountain in Japan, but what makes it unique and so beautiful, is its perfect volcanic cone shape.

From mid June to mid September we can trek to the top of the summit. During the off season we can do an alternate day trek in the 5 Lakes region where the views of Mt. Fuji leave you breathless. It is not that the climb to the top of Fuji is difficult - every year pilgrims, families and school groups all make the ascent. The B grading of this trek is because the rapid ascent to altitude can affect some people, and the pre-dawn start means that we encounter some rough patches with only torchlight to guide us. It is also inexorably upwards. There are several routes to the summit, each a well-designated path. The mountain is divided into 10 stations and like most people we begin our ascent at one of the 5th stations. Fujinomiya, at an altitude of 2,380m, is our preferred 5th station start point, and the 1,396m to the summit takes 5-6 hours in total. We choose to break the climb by stopping overnight at the 8th station. Accommodation on the mountain is a basic dormitory style hut with few facilities.

Please note: The summit of Mt. Fuji is at a high altitude, it is recommended that oxygen should be carried by all passengers. As it can be cold at the summit as you are there before sunrise, we recommend that you wear warm layers and bring a waterproof/windproof jacket, fleece and thermals.


During the climbing season, wake up early morning and climb to top for sunrise. Climb down and pick up bags. Drive back to Kawaguchiko and train to Tokyo. Overnight in Tokyo.

Otherwise, we climb down from Station 5 of Mt. Fuji and then return to Tokyo.

There are no planned activities today and you are free to depart at any time. 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD 2639 2549 1589 1299 3409 2399 1759 2649 279.00 259.00 159.00 129.00 339.00 239.00 159.00 239.00 Local Payment 250 USD Accommodation Hotels (9 nts), Traditional inns and onsen spas (4 nts). Brochure Notes 1. MT. FUJI CLIMBING SEASON is as follows.
From July 1 - August 27: Groups will spend 1 night in Kawaguchiko and 1 night on Mt Fuji in simple guesthouse accommodation and can climb to the top.
From May 1-Jun 30/Aug 28-Nov 1: Groups will spend 2 nights in Kawaguchiko and drive to Station 5 and hike down the mountain (not up!)
From Nov 2 - April 30: It is not possible to climb Mt Fuji as buses do not run up the mountain. Trips will spend 2 days in Kawaguchiko and do walks around the 5 lake region. Departure Departs every second Monday, Mar-Dec DepEnd Mon-Sun Group Leader Tour Leader, local guides. Group Size Max 14, Avg 10 Highlights Tokyo, Shinkansen trains, Takayama, Himeji, Nagasaki, Mt Fuji, Hiroshima, Miyajima, Kyoto, Fujikawaguchiko Max Pax 14 Meal Budget Allow USD400 for meals not included. For additional expenses, see trip details. Meals Included 1 Breakfast, 2 Dinners. Min Pax 6 My Own Room Please note that if you have booked the "My Own Room" option for this tour, you will receive your own single room for all night stops, with the following exceptions:
Nights 2 & 3, Takayama; Night 11, Mt. Fuji Guesthouse (July 1st - August 27th only) Special Comments Web 14 day Japan Rail Pass now included in the price of the trip. StartFinish ex Tokyo Testimonial "Well organized, great cross section of the country and great sites and insight. Super hotels and ryokans. And it was fun!!! A lot more fun than we expected!!!" - Judith Farrin travelled on Discover Japan Transport Local bus, bullet train, tram, taxis, ferry, walking. What's Included 14 day Japan Rail Pass, Hida Folk Village, Takayama, Himeji Castle entry, Kinkaku Ji Temple, Nijo Castle entry, Ryoan Ji Temple entry, Excursion to Miyajima Island, Mt Fuji climb (during climbing season only) A Couple of Rules Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for G.A.P Adventures Adventure travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our group leader has the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or they use prostitutes.
Arrival Complications We don't expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, as soon as possible please contact your starting point hotel, requesting that you speak to or leave a message for your trip leader (if you are not on a group tour please refer to the emergency contact details provided in this dossier). If you are unable to get in touch with your leader, please refer to our emergency contact details. If you have pre-booked an airport transfer and have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions. Please apply to your travel agent on your return for a refund of the transfer cost if this occurs.
Brochure Intro Japan is an intricate blend of East and West. Delve into this society with its deep traditions and customs and find a nation that leads the world in innovation, style and progress. Checklist Small backpack or luggage on wheels is best for this trip
as there is a lot of walking involved.
Passport (with photocopies)
Travel insurance (with photocopies)
14-day - Ordinary (only) - Japan Rail (JR) pass
Airline tickets (with photocopies)
USD cash and travellers cheques
Credit or debit card (see personal spending money)
G.A.P Adventures vouchers, pre-departure information and dossier
Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required
Day pack for daily personal items and for climbing Mt Fugi
Alarm clock
Head-torch/flashlight
Sun hat, Sun block, Sun glasses
Insect Repellent
Small towel and swim wear
Toiletries (biodegradable)
Sturdy walking shoes/Sport sandals
Money belt
Shorts for summer months (June – September)
Long trousers
Hiking pants/track pants
Shirts/T-shirts
Warm clothes for Nov-March, and for the summit of Mt. Fuji: Fleece, windproof/waterproof jacket, thermals, hat and gloves
Umbrella or waterproof jacket.
Camera and film
Reading/writing material
Binoculars
Pocketknife
First-aid kit (should contain lip salve, aspirin, band aids, anti-histamine, imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, re-hydration powder, extra prescription drugs you may be taking).
Departure Tax Departure Tax is included in all International and Domestic tickets. Dossier Disclaimer The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and G.A.P Adventures. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.

VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.
Dossier Intro Japan is an intricate blend of East and West. Delve into this society with its deep traditions and customs and find a nation that leads the world in innovation, style and progress. Emergency Contact Should you need to contact G.A.P Adventures during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call our local office. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information, so they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible.

G.A.P Adventures Local Office – Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo Office Tel: +81-3-5148-1733 (9:00-17:00 - Tokyo,Japan)
Tour Leader Hotline: +81-906-531-4695

North Asia Regional Manger Mobile: +86 1343 958 8732 - Blair (China)

Asia Operations Manager Mobile: +66-879 118 802 - Gabe (Thailand)

If you are unable for any reason to contact our local office, we have a toll-free line for North America, which will connect you directly with our Toronto office. In the event that you cannot get through, you can reach a member of our Operations department at the mobile number below.

Toll-free, North America only: 1 800 465 5600.
Calls from the UK: 0870 999 0144.
Outside North America and the UK: +1 416 260 0999.
Mobile: + 1 647 504 6467 – Andrew
Emergency Fund Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (eg. a natural disaster) necessitate a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!
Feedback After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us that you'll receive a special discount code for free online prints and we'll give you 5% off the price of your next G.A.P Adventures trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 30 days of finishing your trip. Please visit http://www.gapadventures.com/evaluations
Free Online Trip Journals An online Trip Journal is a great way to record stories and photos as you travel, not to mention sharing your experiences with friends. Encourage your family and friends to follow in your footsteps as you explore the world! With templates for over 300 G.A.P Adventures trips already online all you have to do to get started is log in, choose your trip and your departure date, it's quick and easy! Head to http://www.gapadventures.com/trip_journal. Group Leader Description All G.A.P Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our group leaders. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it's the best of both worlds. Health You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements. Please be aware that sometimes we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities, and for legal reasons our leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets, antibiotics, etc. In Asia pharmacies tend to stock the same western drugs as you get at home but they are usually produced locally so please bring the full drug name with you when trying to purchase a prescription drug. When selecting your trip please carefully read the brochure and itinerary and assess your ability to cope with our style of travel. Please refer to the Physical and Culture Shock ratings for trip specific information. For travellers over 70 years a completed Medical Form is required. G.A.P Adventures reserves the right to exclude any traveller from all or part of a trip without refund if in the reasonable opinion of our group leader they are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group. Important Notes MT. FUJI CLIMBING SEASON is as follows.
From July 1 - August 27 - Groups will spend 1 night in Kawaguchiko and 1 night on Mt Fuji in simple guesthouse accommodation and climb to the top.
From May 1-Jun 30/Aug 28-Nov 1 - Groups will spend spend 2 nights in Kawaguchiko and drive to Station 5 and hike down the mountain (not up!)
From Nov 2 - April 30 - It is not possible to climb Mt Fuji as buses do not run up the mountain. Trips will spend 2 days in Kawaguchiko and do walks around the 5 lake region. Itinerary Disclaimer While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit travel with G.A.P Adventures can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission.

Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances. Joining Hotel Shinagawa Prince Hotel
10-30, Takanawa 4-chome
Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8611 Japan
Phone: 81-3-3440-1111
Fax: 81-3-3441-7092
Website: http://www.princehotelsjapan.com/ShinagawaPrinceHotel/index.asp
Joining Instructions As room bookings in Tokyo are sometime hard to arrange for groups we have a few hotels depending on the departure.

Airport Limousine bus (to and from Narita Airport)
The Airport Limousine Company runs several shuttle buses each day between the hotel and Narita Airport adult:3,000yen, child:1,500yen (6 - 12years)
http://www.limousinebus.co.jp/en/

OR

For the Shiba Park Hotel:
Get off the Narita express train at JR Tokyo station and take JR Yamanote line(1stop/3min.) to JR Hamamatsucho station.
From JR Hamamatsucho station, North exit, it's an 8-minute walk.
Go towards Tokyo Tower and turn right at the third traffic light (in front of the big Japanese-style gate)

OR
Get off the Narita express train at JR Tokyo Station and take the Marunouchi Central Exit from which you can take a short 15 minute taxi ride to the hotel.
Taxi fares in Tokyo start at 10.00 USD and go up after the first kilometer and the Tokyo Prince Hotel is about 2.0 km from the station.


For the Tokyo Prince Hotel:
Get off the Narita express train at Tokyo Station and take the Marunouchi Central Exit from which you can take a short 15 minute taxi ride to the hotel. Taxi fares in Tokyo start at 10.00 USD and go up after the first kilometer and the Tokyo Prince Hotel is about 2.5 km from the station.

OR
Get off the Narita express train at JR Tokyo station and take JR Yamanote line(1stop/3min.) to JR Hamamatsucho station.
From JR Hamamatsucho staion, there is free shuttle bus to Tokyo Prince Hotel.
(2 times an hour, every XX:15 & XX:45 from Hamamatsucho station in front of Trading Center)

For the Shinagawa Prince Hotel:
The Narita Express stops at Shinagawa station 7 times a day so if you arrive at a convenient time to catch one of these trains then you just need to stay on until you reach Shinagawa Station. On arrival at the station you need to use the Takanawa Exit where you will find the Shinagawa Prince Hotel directly across the street.

If the Narita Express train is scheduled to finish at Tokyo station then you need to get off the Narita Express train and change over to one of the JR Rail trains. The easiest train line to use in Tokyo is the Yamanote Circle Line which is bright green in color. You just need to show your JR Pass to the ticket attendant and they will let you through the gate. Once on the Yamanote line platform you need to get on the platform side marked for Shinagawa, Shibuya and Shinjuku stations. The trains run every 2 minutes so you will never be waiting long. Once you reach Shinagawa station use the Takanawa Exit to get to the hotel.

At first glance you will think that the Tokyo train stations are completely chaotic and always filled with people. So take your time and read the signs as they are written in English and if you get lost just ask any of the train station staff who are always happy to help you find your way. Keeping in Touch If you need to be contacted while travelling we recommend that you set up an email address that can be accessed on the road, rather than relying on postal mail. Email cafes are becoming increasingly commonplace and cheap throughout the regions we visit, and have quickly become the preferred way for our leaders and travellers to stay in touch. If someone wishes to contact you in an emergency while you are on one of our trips we recommend that they contact your local booking agent, or refer to our Emergency Contact. We recommend that family and friends don't try to contact you through phoning hotels en route, as our hotels are subject to change, and our hotel receptions often don't have English speaking staff.
Laundry Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap. Local Dress In Asia the dress standard is more conservative than it is back home. When packing try to pick loose, lightweight, long clothing that will keep you cool in the usually hot and humid climate of Asian summers. In predominately Buddhist, Hindu and Muslim countries we ask that you dress respectfully and avoid very short shorts/skirts and singlets/tanktops when visiting temples, mosques or other holy sites. Local Flights There are no internal flights on this trip itinerary. Local payment description Most of our adventure tours involve a local payment. This is the final payment of your tour price, paid locally. Paying locally facilitates the flow of funds into countries that we travel through and also helps to reduce the overall price of the tour. This helps G.A.P Adventures keep our prices competitive and in-turn, pass our cost savings onto you. Payment is to be made to your leader or G.A.P Adventures representative upon arrival in cash in the requested currency. Please see our website, brochure or your trip documents and invoice for Local Payment.
Meals Eating is a big part of traveling. Travelling with G.A.P Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your group leader will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. Included breakfasts will usually be asian style consisting of noodles or congee (rice porridge) or bread and eggs. Vegetarians will be able to find a range of different foods, although in some areas the choice maybe limited. While trekking in remote regions food is included, plentiful and made of fresh local ingredients. For all trips please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets. Medical Form Our small group adventures bring together people of all ages. It is very important you are aware that, as a minimum, an average level of fitness and mobility' is required to undertake our easiest programs. Travellers must be able to walk without the aid of another person, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own luggage at a minimum. Travellers with a pre-existing medical condition are required to complete a short medical questionnaire, which must be signed by their physician. This is to ensure that travellers have the necessary fitness and mobility to comfortably complete their chosen trip. While our leaders work hard to ensure that all our travellers are catered for equally, it is not their responsibility to help individuals who cannot complete the day's activities unaided. Please refer to the physical ratings in this Trip Details document for more information.
Please note that all passengers traveling to Antarctica are required to fill out this questionnaire.

The medical questionnaire can be found online at:

www.gapadventures.com/online_medical_form.
Money Exchange As currency exchange rates in Asia fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com As of March 2008 the exchange rate for JAPAN was 1 USD = 99 JPY (Japanese Yen). There are many ATM machines that accept both Visa and Mastercard but these are limited to major cities. We also recommend the use of cash and travellers cheques in USD currency. Major credit cards are accepted in most shops but they may charge a 2-4% transaction fee. Newsletter Our adventure travel e-newsletter is full of travel news, trip information, interesting stories and contests. To avoid missing out on special offers and updates from G.A.P Adventures, subscribe at www.gapadventures.com/newsletter_signup
Optional Activities We suggest you bring along USD50 for additional sightseeing. Our Commitment to Responsible Travel in Antarctica Planeterra-The G.A.P Adventures Foundation Through G.A.P Adventures’ commitment to responsible tourism we have developed Planeterra – the G.A.P Adventures Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of people and communities around the world through support of international charities, local organizations and community projects in the places that we visit on our tours. G.A.P Adventures matches all individual donations and pays all administration fees, which means that 100% of each donation is doubled and goes directly to support our projects. For more information about Planeterra and the projects we support, or to make a donation, please visit www.planeterra.org

Planeterra Dollar-A-Day Program
Our Dollar-A-Day Program provides travellers with the opportunity to help us give back to the people and places visited on our tours by donating one dollar per day for the duration of their tour. 100% of these proceeds will go directly to support our Planeterra projects.

To participate in this program please indicate at the time of booking that you would like to participate in G.A.P Adventures’ Dollar-A-Day program, either by clicking the check box online, or by advising your GA.P Adventures specialist or travel agent. (Note: Donation will be charged in the currency of your booking) Responsible Travel Being a responsible tour operator is at the heart of what G.A.P Adventures is all about. From the start, G.A.P Adventures has been committed to offering low-impact tours that benefit traveller and host alike. While our sustainable tourism policies are constantly evolving, our commitment to socially conscious, grassroots style travel has never changed. We work with local communities, businesses and individuals to develop sustainable tourism opportunities that help local economies while minimizing negative environmental and cultural impacts.

For more information about our commitment to responsible travel, please visit the Sustainable Tourism section of the G.A.P Adventures website: www.gapadventures.com
Safety and Security Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure. We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travellers' cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. When travelling on a group trip, please note that your group leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Your leader will accompany you on all included activities. During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure. While your group leader will assist you with options available in a given location please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we offer no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgement when selecting an activity in your free time. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions.

Single Travellers We believe single travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and single travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.
Spending Money Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
Tipping It is customary in Asia to tip service providers such as waiters, at approximately 10%, depending on the service. Tipping is expected - though not compulsory - and shows an expression of satisfaction with the people who have assisted you on your tour. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. There are several times during the trip where there is opportunity to tip the local guides or drivers we use. You may do this individually, or your Tour Leader will offer to collect the money and tip as a group. Recommendations for tipping drivers and local guides would range from $1-$2 USD per person per day depending on the quality and length of the service; ask your tour leader for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and culture. Also at the end of each trip if you felt your G.A.P Adventures Tour Leader did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline $20-25 USD per person, per week can be used. Travel Forum - The Watering Hole Be sure to stop by The Watering Hole, our adventure travel forum. If you're interested in meeting others booked on your upcoming trip, check out the Departure Lounge section of our forum and introduce yourself. Otherwise, just drop in at anytime to share some travel tips, ask questions, meet other travellers and quench your thirst for travel. Our forum is located at wateringhole.gapadventures.com. Travel Insurance Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Trip Specific Safety We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travellers' cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. Validity Valid for all trips departing January 1, 2009 - December 31st 2009. Visas Please note that visas for Japan are the responsibility of the individual traveller. The visa requirements for your trip vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. For the most up to date information please check your governments foreign ministry website or with you travel agent as rules do change. It is important that you check for yourself. For most travellers there will probably be a Japanese embassy or consulate in the country that you live in. We Want Your Photos If you've got some great photos form your G.A.P Adventures travels, then post them online in our community! You can share photos - and videos - with our travellers from around the world. Simply go online to www.gapadventures.com/community to check out what other people have shared! We often have photo and video contests running too, so be sure to check our website often!
What to Take What you need to bring depends on the trip you have chosen and the countries or regions you are planning to visit. We suggest that you pack as lightly as possible as you are expected to carry your own luggage. As a rule we try not to have to walk more than 15-20 mintues with your bags which is why we recommend keeping the weight of your bags between 10-15kg/22-30lb. Suitcases are not recommended for G.A.P Adventures trips! Most travellers carry a backpack or rolling bag of small to medium size (no XXL ones please!). In Japan bags need to fit in the overhead luggage racks when travelling on the trains. You will also need a day-pack/rucksack to carry daily essentials like water, cameras, passport, ipods etc. Your Fellow Travellers As you travel on a group trip you will be exposed to all the pleasures and maybe some of the frustrations of travelling in a group. Your fellow travellers will probably come from all corners of the world and are likely to be of a variety of ages too. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group - patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone's travel experience. Remember too that you have responsibilities to the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, ensure that you don't keep the rest of the group waiting. We have found time and time again that the very best trips we operate are those where the dynamics within the group work well - this takes just a little effort on your part.