Uncover Japan’s hidden secrets

Leading Asia specialist, Travel Indochina, has expanded its programme of small group journeys in Japan to offer customers an option of 10, 15 or 21 days in this beautiful and increasingly popular land of contrasts.

True to form, the tour operator has used local knowledge and expertise to put together a programme of activities which take in not only the main sites of the country, but also bespoke excursions and hidden gems, only available to Travel Indochina’s clientele.

Among the exclusive options are an enchanting train ride in the western Arashiyama area of Kyoto, near the famous bamboo forests, and a visit to a Toyota manufacturing plant near Nagoya (both available on the “Secrets of Japan” and “Land of the Rising Sun” journeys). This visit to a working factory has proved a real hit with Travel Indochina’s customers and offers a fascinating and marked contrast to the historic temples and villages of Japan.

One of the highlights available on each of the Japan journeys is a visit to a local market in Takayama, also known as “Little Kyoto”. Takayama is a small town, off the tourist trail, with a sprinkling of numerous temples and shrines, old sake rice wine breweries and boutique shops and markets. Equally popular with guests is a stay in a traditional ryokan inn near Mount Fuji in the pretty village of Hakone. This authentic experience accommodates guests in rooms with tatumi mat floors and futon bedding and they can sample traditional Japanese cuisine during their stay.

Travel Indochina’s general manager, Chris Orme, explains: “Japan is the newest addition to our portfolio of destinations and has proved a real winner with our clients. We have decided to offer three alternative journeys, each giving a unique insight into this increasingly popular country. Our journeys differ from those of our competitors in that our groups are limited to 15 guests and western tour leaders accompany all our trips, along with local English-speaking guides.”

Travel Indochina’s customers can choose from three small group journeys: “Secrets of Japan” is a 15 day discovery of the contrasting sides of Japan, from the bright lights of Tokyo, through traditional towns and serene rural landscapes, to the gardens and geishas of Kyoto. Prices start from £2,965*.

The “Highlights of Japan” 10 day journey enables guests to discover the “real” Japan, from a tea ceremony in Tokyo to a lesson in paper-making at the World Heritage-listed village of Shirakawago. Prices start from £2,170*.

Alternatively, for die-hard enthusiasts, the 21 day “Land of the Rising Sun” journey takes in the natural wonders, ancient traditions and vibrant modern cities of Japan, including an unforgettable cable car ride with breath-taking Mount Fuji as the backdrop. Prices from £4,490*.

For more information, log on to Travelindochina.co.uk.

*All prices include accommodation, local transportation – including Japan Rail Passes – sightseeing as specified, western tour leader and English-speaking guides, transfers, daily breakfast and one dinner. An extra day’s rail pass to be used at leisure is also offered on the “Secrets of Japan” journey.