Winter Sports and Culture

- 12 Days

Japan Tours - great for culture

Tour Highlights

  • Try fresh sushi at a Tokyo market
  • Ski and try the hot spring baths in Niseko
  • Contemplate a zen garden
  • Take the Bullet Train to Tokyo
  • Marvel at the geishas in Kyoto

Our Snow & Culture package combines 5 nights in the fantastic resort of Niseko with time in the exciting city's of Tokyo and Kyoto, the cultural and historic centre of the country. In Tokyo you’ll be based in exciting Shinjuku. Fly to the north island of Hokkaido - the very best destination for winter sports in Japan and stay in Niseko - known for its fantastic powder snow and huge variety of runs as well as a great village atmosphere. Kyoto is the cultural centre of Japan and here we have included a full day with a private guide as well as plenty of free time.

Included: 11 night tour with accommodation and breakfast, 1 evening meal, 5 day ‘All Mountain’ lift pass, 8 hour private guide service in Kyoto, all transport between destinations incl. return Narita Airport transfers, meet and greet upon arrival at Tokyo Narita Airport and at Sapporo New Chitose Airport and complimentary info-pack.

Not Included: International flights, transfers to/from Haneda Airport, local transport, entrance fees and baggage handling. For additional expenses see trip details.

Accommodation: Day 1: Tokyo Standard: Kadoya Hotel Tokyo Superior: Keio Plaza Niseko Standard: Pension Locomotion Niseko Superior: Hirafutei Hotel Kyoto Standard: Izuyasu Ryokan Kyoto Superior: Kanneiwaro Bekkan Day 11: Tokyo Standard and Superior as Day 1.

We went for the skiiing, which was great, but came back with so much more ffrom the other places we visited.

Mrs A.Campbell

Prices:

Standard Tour fr £2195pp

Superior Tour fr £3008pp

Prices valid for 2009, based on twinshare. Peak supplements may apply.

Full Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Tokyo

You’ll be met on arrival at Tokyo Narita Airport by one of our representatives who will show you to the airport bus for your transfer into Tokyo. Tonight’s accommodation is in Shinjuku – the vibrant modern centre of the capital city. No meals.
Stay 2 nights: Kadoya Hotel or Keio Plaza

Day 2: Full day in Tokyo

You have a full day to explore Tokyo and all that it has to offer, from fresh sushi at the incredible Tsukiji fish market to strolling around the Imperial Palace. The ultra-efficient subway system makes getting round the city very straightforward. Meals: Breakfast

Day 3: Flight to Niseko

You will be up early to take a bus to Tokyo Haneda airport for the internal flight to Sapporo New Chitose Airport on the north island of Hokkaido. You’ll be met on arrival and then transfer by bus to your resort where you can pick up the included lift pass and get going on the slopes! Meals: Breakfast
Stay 5 nights: Pension Locomotion or Hirafutei Hotel

Day 4-7: On the slopes in Niseko

You have four whole days of fun on the slopes in Niseko. There are vast areas of piste to explore as well as lively après ski and some wonderful relaxing hot spring baths. Meals: Breakfast

Day 8: Travel to Kyoto

From Niseko you will take the bus back to New Chitose Airport and then an internal flight to Osaka Kansai Airport (2hrs). From Kansai Airport you will take a limited express train to Kyoto (1h15mins). Accommodation in Kyoto is Japanese style with dinner included this evening. Meals: Breakfast & dinner
Stay 3 nights: Izuyasu Ryokan or Kanneiwaro Bekkan

Day 9: Full day guiding in Kyoto

Kyoto is the most treasured city in all of Japan and is often said to be the birthplace of Japanese culture. Today a private guide is at your disposal to help you see the very best of this city. With ancient temples, beautiful gardens, and serene shrines around every corner you will be treated to some of the most famous sights in Japan. Meals: Breakfast.

Day 10: Full day in Kyoto

You have another day free to explore Kyoto or perhaps take a day trip to nearby Nara or Himeji castle if you wish. Whether you are sipping green tea contemplating a zen garden or gliding over the rapids of the Hozugawa River, you are sure to enjoy your time in this historic area. Meals: Breakfast.

Day 11: Travel to Tokyo

From Kyoto you will travel by reserved seat shinkansen ‘Bullet Train’ to Tokyo (3hrs). For your final night you will be back in Shinjuku. A great chance to do some last minute shopping or to catch some of the sights you may have missed at the start of your trip. Meals: Breakfast
Stay 1 night: Kadoya Hotel or Keio Plaza

Day 12: Departure

We will provide you with tickets for the airport bus to make the transfer back to Tokyo Narita Airport for your international flight home. Meals: Breakfast.