Departure date: 06 Apr, 2018 (Fri) Coach Tour
Day 00 (Thu, 05Apr)
Assemble at Singapore Changi Airport
Day 01 (Fri, 06Apr)
Singapore – Kansai – Kyoto
(-/Lunch/Dinner)
Hotel: The Westin Miyako Hotel Kyoto or similar
Your trip begins at one of Kyoto’s most famous sites, Kinkakuji. This zen temple was formally the retirement villa of shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. However, its claim to fame comes from its gold leaf covered top two floors, a testament to the extravagance of Kyoto’s wealthy aristocrats of the time, earning it the name of “Golden Pavilion”.
One of the most well-known temples in Japan and an icon of Kyoto, the Kiyomizu Temple was established in 778, even before Kyoto’s time as the capital of Japan. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is most recognised by its temple stage jutting out from the side of the Otowa mountain. Supported by huge 13m Japanese Zelkova pillars and constructed without the use of a single nail, the stunning architecture of the temple is also an incredible feat of engineering.
Day 02 (Sat, 07Apr)
Kyoto
(Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
Hotel: The Westin Miyako Hotel Kyoto or similar
Arashiyama on the outskirts of Kyoto is a popular district known for its bamboo groves, temples and seasonal colours, making it a pleasant area to explore. One activity that is a must here is taking a ride on the scenic Torokko Train! This retro-fitted steam train winds its way leisurely through a forested ravine along the Hozugawa river, allowing passengers to fully enjoy the gorgeous spring sights and natural scenery.
The Gion district of Kyoto is known for being the home of geisha, exclusive entertainers who are trained in dance and music. Usually seen only in private engagements, you will get a chance to watch them perform at the annual Miyako Odori this evening. This special performance held only in spring features traditional songs and dances by maiko and geiko and gives a glimpse into the art of the geisha.
Day 03 (Sun, 08Apr)
Kyoto – Nara
(Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
Hotel: Noborioji Hotel Nara or similar
The Philosopher’s Path is a stone path along a canal that is said to have been regularly used by one of Japan’s great philosophers, Nishida Kitaro. While it is a pleasant path for meditation, it is even better as a cherry blossom viewing spot as hundreds of cherry trees that line the canal burst forth with flowers each spring.
Up until 1868, Kyoto was the capital of Japan and residence of the imperial family. These days, the palace grounds are open to the public as Kyoto Imperial Park. The palace, open spaces and other historical sites within the compound make for nice strolling grounds, and a group of weeping cherry trees beside the Konoe Pond make it a particularly beautiful spot.
You mightrecognise this place from the back of the 10 yen coin, the Phoenix Hall of Byodoin Temple, is a spectacular building with two phoenix statues on its roof. The brilliant red hall itself is said to resemble a phoenix and is a magnificent sight.
Day 04 (Mon, 09Apr)
Nara – Yoshino
(Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
Hotel: Hotel Suginoyu (Hot Spring) or similar
Over at Nara Park today, you can take a stroll with the over 1,200 adorable deer that roam freely here. The deer are so integral to Nara that they have become a symbol of the city and are even a designated natural treasure! Buy some crackers to feed the deer with and try bowing to them to watch them bow back!
Near the park is Todaiji Temple, one of Japan’s most famous and historically significant temples. Its impressive main hall is the world’s largest wooden building and houses one of Japan’s largest bronze buddhas at 15m tall. A popular attraction of the temple is a hole in one of the pillars the same size as Buddha’s nostril. It is said that anyone who can squeeze through the hole will gain enlightenment in the next life.
Day 05 (Tue, 10Apr)
Yoshino – Sakurai
(Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
Hotel: L’auberge de Plaisance Sakurai or similar
Nara’s Mt. Yoshino has been Japan’s most famous cherry blossom viewing spot for centuries, and today you will see why. The mountain is covered in over 30,000 cherry trees that colour the mountainside in shades of pink and white each spring. Divided into four areas, you can fully enjoy the cherry blossoms as you ascend the mountain. Small parks can be found all around the mountain along with a few viewpoints that offer spectacular views of the cherry trees in the area. Stroll through the cherry tree-lined walking paths and bask in the glow of the flowers.
Day 06 (Wed, 11Apr)
Sakurai – Osaka
(Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
Hotel: The Ritz-Carlton Osaka or similar
Try your hand at somen-making today! The thin, white noodles are one of Japan’s signature noodles along with ramen, udon and soba. Learn the intricate steps involved in making these noodles and end off the session by eating the fruits of your labour!
Later, pay a visit to the Osaka Mint Bureau, the head office of Japan Mint. Although it is responsible for the supply of coins, it is more well-known for its cherry tree garden. Over 300 cherry trees of more than 100 varieties grow on its premises, allowing visitors to enjoy cherry blossoms throughout the blooming season.
Day 07 (Thu, 12Apr)
Osaka
(Breakfast/-/-)
Hotel: The Ritz-Carlton Osaka or similar
Free and easy day in Osaka
Day 08 (Fri, 13Apr)
Osaka – Kansai – Singapore
(Breafast/-/-)
Flight back to Singapore
COACH TOUR (LUXURY)
Assemble date: 05 Apr, Thur (SO12024)
Flight schedule: (for suggestion only, not included in tour price)
06Apr SQ 618 Singapore - Kansai
0125 / 0905
13Apr SQ 619 Kansai - Singapore
1055 / 1640
Tour price per person (in SGD)
Group size: 15-19 pax
Adult twin share $7,000; Adult triple share $6,550
Adult single $9,650
Group size: 20 pax & above
Adult twin share $6,600; Adult triple share $6,150
Adult single $9,250
Tour price includes:
Hotel accommodation as stipulated in itinerary
Tours and Meals as stipulated in itinerary
Comprehensive travel insurance
Tour price excludes:
Air tickets
Airport taxes & fuel charges (Estimated, subject to change)
Visa application fee (if any)
Remarks:
The prices are subject to change upon fluctuations of currency exchange rates.
Flight schedule and the sequence of the itinerary are subject to change with or without prior notice to ensure the smooth running of the tour.
Minimum group size to confirm tour is 15 adults/children with bed.
Please refer to booking form for further terms and conditions.