Friendly small group tours of Japan with Riki Inamura rikistoursjapan.com.au
Thank you for picking up this brochure to read about my tours. Riki-san! Kirei desu ne! (It’s beautiful Riki!) - Nat
a ay with I came aw standing er d n u r greate - Helen of Japan
it is filled I loved this tour, - Tessa sts tra con h wit
y al in ever rofession ed Riki is p ; I trust d or w e th Florence sense of ly te ple him com
My name is Riki Inamura. I was born and raised in Kyoto, but I’ve been calling Australia home for a while now. And it’s from here that I offer you my friendly small group tours of Japan. They’re the result of more than fifteen years’ experience, leading Australian travellers through Japan, and Japanese travellers to all corners of the globe. My focus is on personal service. I design, arrange and escort all the tours myself. This means you know who’ll be looking after you from beginning to end. My tours are also unique. I’ll take you to my favourite spots of great natural, historical and cultural interest. Let me share wonderful food, beautiful places and happy experiences in Japan with you. I’ve got many great memories from my 2015 tours. A highlight once again was Kamikochi on my City Lights & Alpine Trails tour. The weather was spectacular this time, so five of us climbed all the way to Dakesawa (pictured left) for fantastic alpine views. I’ve tweaked all my tours for 2016 to make them even better for you. I’ve also created two brand new tours. The first is called Tohoku Sakura, and is based on the journey I took with my mother after my 2015 sakura tours. My father had always said that northern Japan has some of the best cherry blossoms, and he was right. So join me in 2016 to take in wonderful natural scenery and the marvellous Hirosaki Castle Cherry Blossom Festival. It will be a great tour for those wanting to see the sakura on the road less travelled in rural settings.
Then in October, I’m leading my first pottery and art tour, which I’ve called Earth & Fire, starting from Kyushu in south-western Japan, and ending in Kyoto, the ancient capital and my home town. Having explored the kilns myself over the past year or so, I’ve come to know some wonderful people who work in them, so I’d like to introduce you to their world. This tour also stops by the Benesse Art Site of Naoshima Island on the inland sea, so I am sure both art and nature lovers will enjoy it. I also have two designated walking tours that take in natural and historical settings. The walks are suitable for most travellers, but will still get you to some far and away places. My Spirit of Japan tour has been extended to include walks along two culturally significant trails - the Kumano Kodo and the Nakasendo. And by popular demand, my City Lights & Alpine Trails tour has now become a grand three week journey across Japan. It will take you from the big cities on the main island along alpine trails, forested gorges and volcanic lakesides all the way to the highest peak of Hokkaido, Kamui Mintara. With so many flowers and brilliant green nature, May is one of my favourite times to be in Japan, so it should be wonderful. I’ve chosen comfortable places to stay that give you the best access to transport, shopping, eating and sightseeing. What’s more, all tours include a stay in a ryokan (Japanese inn) or onsen hotel where you can enjoy a hot spring bath as we Japanese like to do. With small groups of no more than ten travellers, why don’t you join me?
Let me share the things I love about Japan with you - Riki
Tour style My tours suit travellers who appreciate quality accommodation, local food, beautiful places and cross cultural experiences. The tours make use of Japan’s excellent public transport system on relaxed itineraries in a joyful and safe atmosphere. Hotels and Ryokan All accommodation is carefully chosen, giving you great access to transport, shopping, food and sightseeing. A mix of western and Japanese style accommodation is used, with all tours including a stay in at least one ryokan or onsen hotel. The western hotels are mostly of 4 star standard, although some 3-3.5 star ones are also used. See website for details. Standard inclusions The tours include all the transport, accommodation, meals, entry fees and walks as described in itineraries. They also include my services as the tour escort and your airport-hotel transfers in Japan. Tailored itineraries If you would like to do your own thing, but need help with ideas and making arrangements, I can tailor a tour that takes you to the places that interest you in the style you want.
I liked the sushi in Japan very much - Ka
You were so patient, considerate & informative, I got to learn so much about Japan - Peta
te
Classic Sakura p6 5 April 2016 13 $4990
$1000
Tohoku Sakura p7 23 April 2016 8 $3490
$700
City Lights & Alpine Trails p8-9 14 May 2016 19 $6950 $1000 Earth & Fire p10-11 13 October 2016 9 $3690 $600 Spirit of Japan p12 25 October 2016 14 $4390 $800 Autumn Colours p13 11 November 2016 13 $5690 ask Riki
g me your for showin Thank you - Barbara y tr un co l beautifu
Daibutsu-san in Nara is amazing and a must see - Jason
Asahidake Sapporo Lake Toya Your easy going and relaxed nature immediately made us feel at home in Japan - Kathy
Hakodate
We loved all th e trains, especially the Sh inkansen Trevor & Bridget
Hirosaki
Oirase
Kakunodate
Matsushima Sendai
Yudanaka Onsen Kanazawa Nagano Kamikochi Shirakawago
Yunogo Onsen
KYOTO
Himeji Castle
Bizen
Okayama Kurashiki Hiroshima Miyajima
TOKYO Gero Nara
Fukuoka Karatsu
Matsumoto
Narai Tsumago
Imari & Arita Naoshima Onta village
Aso
Osaka Mt Koya Kii Tanabe Chikatsuyu Kawayu Onsen Nachi
Tokyo and beyond The classic cherry blossom experience On this tour, I’ll take you to some classic (and secret!) cherry blossoms sites in cities, towns, villages, islands and mountains. The Classic Sakura tour includes a stay in my favourite ryokan by a local cherry blossom festival. You’ll also get to see the snow monkeys! This tour would suit first time sakura hunters, who want to see Japan’s cherry blossoms on a relaxed itinerary in a small group.
13 nights 5 ~ 18 Apr in / out Tokyo $4990
TUE 5AP
Travel to Tokyo
WED 6AP
Tokyo
THU 7AP
$1000 13 b’fasts
FRI 8AP
4 dinners 1 festival
SAT 9AP
2 onsens snow monkeys
SUN 10AP
Arrive at Narita or Haneda by own arrangement with transfers provided into Tokyo.
Kyoto
BD
WED 13AP
Kyoto
B
THU 14AP
Kyoto to Kanazawa
B
FRI 15AP
Kanazawa (or Shirakawago day-trip)
B
SAT 16AP
Kanazawa to Yudanaka Onsen
SUN 17AP
Yudanaka Onsen to Tokyo
MON 18AP
Tokyo, then travel home
BD
Visit Sensoji Temple to wish a safe journey, then try indigo dyeing in a local store. We’ll see cherry blossoms and have our welcome dinner at a local izakaya (Japanese style pub).
Tokyo (or optional day-tour)
B
Enjoy your day in Tokyo, or join an optional tour. I recommend the Kamakura tour, however the Nikko or Mt Fuji tours would also be good, depending on the weather.
Tokyo to Hiroshima via Himeji Castle
B
Take a Shinkansen west to Hiroshima. On the way, we’ll stop by Himeji Castle, Japan’s best, which should be spectacular in sakura time.
Hiroshima and Miyajima day-trip
B
Make a short trip to Miyajima to view the floating red O-Torii, and see great views of the inland sea from Mt Misen. Return to Hiroshima for hanami in the Peace Park and the Museum.
Hiroshima to Yunogo Onsen via the Tsuyama Cherry Blossom Festival
BD
We head into the country by Shinkansen and local train for the cherry blossom festival in Tsuyama, where thousands of sakura trees have been planted in the castle ruins. We’ll stay at my favourite ryokan, where you can take an onsen and enjoy a kaiseki dinner. MON 11AP
TUE 12AP
Yunogo Onsen to Kyoto
B
Take a local train to Himeji, and then the Shinkansen into Kyoto. At night, we’ll see the Miyako Odori Spring Dance and Maruyama Park.
Join me in my hometown for a tour of Kyoto, including the Golden Pavilion. Then follow the sakura on the Philosopher’s Path to the Silver Pavilion. At night, enjoy dinner at Wontana, my family favourite. Enjoy a free day in Kyoto. You could visit the Bamboo Forest in Arashiyama, or perhaps just relax under the cherry blossoms by the Kamo River? Take a train north to the delightful city of Kanazawa on the Japan Sea side. In the afternoon, we can wander the samurai district and visit Kenrokuen Garden. Relax in Kanazawa, or join me for a day-trip to the world heritage listed Shirakawago village, where you can see thatched roof houses.
BD
Today, we head back into the mountains by Shinkansen to Nagano to visit the 7th century Zenkoji temple. Then it’s a local train to Yudanaka for an onsen and kaiseki dinner.
B
A short stroll through the forests will take us to the snow monkeys bathing in a natural onsen, then we take a local train and Shinkansen back into Tokyo. Depending on your schedule, enjoy the last of Tokyo before transferring to Haneda or Narita for your flight home.
Yudanaka
Kanazaw & Shirakawago
Yunogo O Hiroshima (via Himeji Castle) Miyajima day-trip
t, and ery momen I enjoyed ev l group enabled smal ie being in a touch - Jul a personal
Let me show you the best of my hometown, Kyoto - Riki
Journey to the far north The sakura road less travelled Late April is the best time to see the cherry blossoms in the north. My father had always said that the ones at Hirosaki Castle are Japan’s best, so I took my mother to see them in 2015. On the Tohoku Sakura tour, I’ll show you the sakura in the nature of the far north; on beautiful coasts, rural rivers and in mountain forests. This tour is ideal for seasoned travellers to Japan, or for those who’d like to take the sakura road less travelled.
8 nights 23 Apr ~ 1 May in / out Tokyo
SAT 23AP
Travel to Tokyo
SUN 24AP
Tokyo
$3490 $700
MON 25AP
8 b’fasts 4 dinners 1 festival 2 onsens
TUE 26AP
WED 27AP
Hirosaki
Oirase
Arrive at Narita or Haneda by own arrangement with transfers provided into Tokyo.
FRI 29AP
Oirase Gorge to Hirosaki
BD
SAT 30AP
Hirosaki, then back to Tokyo
B
SUN 1MA
Tokyo then return home
B
B
In the morning, we’ll go sakura hunting by a park on the hillside with grand views of the bay. We’ll also stop by the 17th century Entsuin Temple with its delightful gardens, before taking a cruise on the pretty island studded bay. Later, we’ll take the local train back to Sendai, a great city for walking and shopping.
Sendai and Kakunodate day-trip
BD
BD
In the morning, we’ll begin our journey north to catch the blooms of sakura. We’ll take the Shinkansen to Sendai, then a local train into the port town of Matsushima, one of Japan’s best ocean views. We’ll be staying at a luxurious onsen hotel where we can enjoy local cuisine at the kaiseki dinner.
Matsushima to Sendai
Sendai to Oirase Gorge
BD
Visit Sensoji Temple in old downtown Tokyo to wish a safe journey ahead. You can then spend your afternoon at leisure, or join me for a walk through Ueno Park. The weather should have warmed up, so the azaleas will be coming into bloom throughout the city. In the evening, we’ll have our welcome dinner at a local izakaya (Japanese style pub).
Tokyo to Matsushima
THU 28AP
B
Today, we’ll head north-west on the Shinkansen for a day-trip to the beautiful town of Kakunodate on the Hinokinai River, which is lined with cherry blossom trees for over two kilometres. The old samurai residences also make this town one of the best places to experience Japan’s pre-modern era.
We’ll take the Shinkansen further north, then join a local bus to visit the Towada Art Centre, and Oirase, deep in the forests. You can join me for a walk up the verdant gorge. Oirase is a great place to unwind within because of its beautiful natural setting. Relax in the onsen at the hotel before a dinner of local cuisine.
In the morning, we’ll take a local bus up and over the Hakkoda Mountains to Hirosaki. Then we’ll spend the afternoon at the cherry blossom festival that takes place around the splendid 17th century castle and its gorgeous grounds and moats. It’s vast with many hidden pockets, so we’ll visit again in the morning. In the evening, enjoy our farewell dinner together at an izakaya (Japanese style pub). We’ll take an early morning viewing of the sakura at Hirosaki Castle before taking a local train and Shinkansen south for our journey back to the bright lights of Tokyo.
If you have time, it would be worth visiting Shinjuku Park to the west of the city, which has beautiful gardens. May is a wonderful time to be in Japan, so talk to me if you would like to extend your stay or continue on elsewhere in the country. Alternatively, enjoy your day at leisure before transferring to Haneda or Narita for your flight home.
Kakunodate day-trip
a (via Nagano)
wa day-trip
Matsushima Sendai
Onsen TOKYO Kyoto
in / out HND or NRT
My mother in Hirosaki, 2015
Kyoto to Sapporo via the roof of Japan & the garden of the gods Starting from my hometown of Kyoto, I’ll take you on my wonderful walking tour of Japan, through fascinating cities and spectacular natural settings to the highest peak of Hokkaido, ‘Kamui Mintara’ - Garden of the Gods. May is a fantastic time to travel in Japan as the days are long and the country is a brilliant green. The City Lights & Alpine Trails tour would suit travellers seeking a diversity of experiences and soft-walking opportunities in nature.
19 nights 14 May ~ 2 Jun In Kyoto Out Sapporo $6590
SAT 14MA
SUN 15MA
MON 16MA
$1000 19 b’fasts
TUE 17MA
11 dinners 9 day-walks
WED 18MA
4 onsens THU 19MA
Travel to Kyoto
Arrive Kansai or Itami by own arrangement with transfers provided into Kyoto.
Kyoto
Kamikochi day-walk
BD
SAT 21MA
Kamikochi to Tsumago via Matsumoto Castle
BD
BD
Have a tour of Kyoto with me, including the Golden Pavilion. Later, see Japanese performing arts and enjoy a welcome dinner at Wontana, my family favourite.
Kyoto (Mt Kurama day-walk)
FRI 20MA
Travel to the historical village of Tsumago via Matsumoto, where we’ll stop to see the splendid 16th century castle. Make sure you try hand-made soba (buckwheat noodles) here.
B
Enjoy Kyoto as you wish, or join me for a day walk of the Mt Kurama temple complex in the northern hills, near to where I was raised.
SUN 22MA
Kyoto to Miyajima (Mt Misen day-walk) BD
Take the Shinkansen, local train and ferry west to the island of Miyajima to see the floating red O-Torii. The island is a great place to relax. Or join me for a short walk up sacred Mt Misen to enjoy the views of the inland sea.
Miyajima to Gero via Hiroshima
BD
Gero Onsen to Kamikochi via Shirakawago
BD
Heading back through Hiroshima, we’ll stop by the Peace Park & Museum before we take the Shinkansen east and up to the alps for the onsen town of Gero, famous for its hot springs. Enjoy hida-beef for our kaiseki dinner, then relax in the onsen.
You could just relax in this spectacular setting, or join me for a walk to Myojin Pond. Keen hikers can add a two-hour climb to Dakesawa, which has grand views of the valley.
Tsumago to Tokyo (Nakasendo day-walk)
B
Tokyo
B
Walk part of the Nakasendo, the path once used by samurai travelling between Kyoto and Edo. We’ll then catch a local train and connecting Shinkansen into Tokyo. MON 23MA
In the morning, join me to visit Sensoji Temple in old downtown Tokyo, then try your hand at indigo dyeing in a community store. In the afternoon, you’ll be free to explore the city. You may want to head for the gardens in Shnjuku, the people of Harajuku or the shopping in Ginza. (continues facing page) SAPPORO out CTS
Journey to the roof of Japan via the world heritage listed Shirakawago village, where you can see thatched roof houses. Then we travel up to the beautiful yet remote alpine valley of Kamikochi at 1500m.
Lake Toya Hakodate
Kamikochi (via Shirakawago)
Sen
Gero Miyajima (via Hiroshima)
Tokyo Tsumago (via Matsumoto) KYOTO in KIX or ITM
land Miyajima Is Staying on Riki perience ex t ea gr is a
I loved your sense of humour and personal approach - Leonie
(Thank you for all the artwork here - Riki)
modation at The accom John excellent as w hi Kamikoc
TUE 24MA
Oirase Gorge Matsushima day-trip
ndai
o
Tokyo (Mt Takao day-walk)
I would like to go on We enjoyed the tour immensely anothe r trip with & ul helpf nt, patie was you - Jan Riki understanding - Craig
B
Join me for a walk up Mt Takao in western Tokyo. Alternatively, you may wish to join a tour of Mt Fuji & Hakone, or Nikko for the Toshogu Shrine in the cedar forests.
WED 25MA
Tokyo to Sendai & Matsushima
THU 26MA
Sendai to Oirase Gorge (day-walk)
B
TUE 1MA
Asahidake (Kamui Mintara day-walk) BD
WED 1JU
Asahidake to Sapporo
THU 2JU
Sapporo, then travel home
Catch the Shinkansen north to Sendai. Visit Matsushima for a cruise on one of Japan’s prettiest island studded bays.
BD
We’ll take the Shinkansen further north to visit the Towada Art Centre, then Oirase to walk up the verdant gorge. Take an onsen at the hotel before dinner.
Oirase Gorge to Hakodate
B
SAT 28MA
Hakodate (Onuma Lakes day-walk)
B
SUN 29MA
Hakodate to Lake Toya
BD
MON 30MA
Lake Toya to Asahidake (Kamui Mintara, Daisetsuzan NP)
BD
FRI 27MA
Asahidake
Thank you for your en dless knowledge, sensitivity an d sense of fu n - Carla
Journey under the sea to Hokkaido and the port city of Hakodate. Try seafood donburi (rice bowl) here. We’ll take a gondola up Mt Hakodate for a stunning night vista. Enjoy a walk with me around the lovely Onuma wetlands, which was formed by volcanic eruption in 1929. The azaleas will be stunning. Later, visit historical Goryokaku Fort. We’ll take a local train to the lakeside village of Toya. Walk the Mt Usu area, a smouldering volcano, then soothe your feet in the onsen.
Travel through diverse scenery to the base village of Asahidake, the highest peak in Hokkaido, which is known as Kamui Mintara in the local Ainu language. Enjoy dinner and an onsen.
Using the gondola, a range of day-walks is possible from the top of this pristine volcanic mountain to suit your fitness and the weather.
BD
We make our way down to Sapporo, where you’re free to explore this cosmopolitan little city. Reward yourself with zangi (Hokkaido style fried chicken) and Sapporo beer.
B
Sapporo at leisure, then transfer to Chitose for your flight home.
Day-walks
Mt Kurama (3-4km) Mt Misen (1-3km) Kamikochi Myojin Pond (6.5km) Nakasendo (8km) Mt Takao (4.5km) Oirase Gorge (9km) Onuma Lakes (3-4km) Mt Usu Volcanic Global Geopark (3-4km) Mt Asahidake ‘Kamui Mintara’ (2-9km)
Kyushu to Kyoto via medieval kilns and the Naoshima Island Art Site My father used to dabble in pottery, even building a small kiln in the backyard of our home in Kyoto. Although the neighbours weren’t impressed, it was happy days for me, and it’s the inspiration of this tour. So join me on my Earth & Fire tour to explore several medieval kilns from Kyushu to Kyoto. We’ll also stop by some stunning natural areas and the Benesse Art Site of Naoshima Island. This tour would suit history, art and nature lovers who have an interest in ceramics and the medieval culture of artisans in Japan.
9 nights 13 Oct ~ 22 Oct In Fukuoka Out Kyoto
THU 13OC
Travel to Fukuoka
FRI 14OC
Fukuoka
$3690 $600
SAT 15OC
9 b’fasts 4 dinners 5 kiln sites 1 onsen
SUN 16OC
the generations. Today, there are ten families left in the village, all of whom work the kilns. After exploring Onta, we’ll head for the volcanic area of Aso, where you can soak your feet in the onsen and enjoy our kaiseki dinner.
Arrive at Fukuoka’s very convenient airport by own arrangement with transfers provided into the city.
BD
Visit the Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine to wish a safe journey, then see the Kyushu National Museum, one of Japan’s best, set spectacularly on a forested hillside. Relax before our welcome dinner in this cosmopolitan little city.
Fukuoka to Karatsu via Arita & Imari BD This morning, we’ll take a bus to visit several working kilns in Arita, Imari (where the illustration below is based) and Karatsu. There’ll be opportunities to talk with the local artisans.
Imari to Aso via Onta village
Today, we’ll head into the countryside by bus to visit the hidden village of Onta, which still produces ceramics using ancient methods passed down
BD
MON 17OC
Aso to Okayama
B
TUE 18OC
Okayama (Naoshima Art Site day-trip) B
In the morning, we’ll explore the caldera of Aso, then head down the mountain to meet the Shinkansen for our journey to Okayama.
Catch a local train and ferry to the Benesse Art Site of Naoshima, a beautiful island on the inland sea. Enjoy the unique art work and installations in the marvellous scenery. (continues facing page)
WED 19OC
Okayama to Kyoto via Bizen
B
THU 20OC
Kyoto
B
Kiln and art site visits
We’ll catch a local train to Bizen, which has been a centre of pottery since medieval times. There’ll be an opportunity to work with local clay under the guidance of the kiln master. Then we take a train and Shinkansen to Kyoto.
Fukuoka National Museum Naoshima Island art site Sagawa Art Museum, Kyoto Arita, Imari, Karatsu, Onta, and Bizen kilns.
Join me for a tour of Kyoto, my hometown, including the Golden Pavilion. After lunch, follow the Philosopher’s Path to the Silver Pavilion.
FRI 21OC
Kyoto
SAT 22OC
Kyoto, then travel home
Kimura Hajime working his kiln at Ichiogama in Bizen
BD
Relax for the day as you wish in Kyoto, or join me to visit the Sagawa Art Museum east of Kyoto to see, among other things, the works of the ceramic artist Raku Kichizaemon. At night, enjoy our farewell dinner at Wontana, my family favourite.
B
Enjoy your day in Kyoto as time permits before transferring to Itami or Kansai Airport for your flight home.
in FUK
Here’s some of the beautiful bizen-yaki made by earth & fire - Riki
Okayama
Bizen day-trip
FUKUOKA KYOTO
Karatsu Imari & Arita day-trip
Naoshima day-trip Aso via Onta village
out KIX or ITM
Doing my thing on Naoshima by Yayoi Kusam a’s pumpkin
Getting closer to Japan’s spirit at Koya-san, and on the Kumano Kodo & Nakasendo walks Join me on this historical walking tour in beautiful Autumn landscapes along two of Japan’s most important ancient routes: the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage and the Nakasendo. This tour would suit keen walkers who’d like to experience the culture of Japan the way it used to be. TUE 25OC
Travel to Osaka
WED 26OC
Osaka to Koya-san
14 nights 25 Oct ~ 8 Nov In Osaka Out Tokyo
THU 27OC
$4390 $800
FRI 28OC
14 b’fasts 9 dinners
SAT 29OC
Arrive in Kansai or Itami by own arrangement with transfers provided into Osaka.
BD
Take a train and gondola to Koya-san, Japan’s centre of Shingon Buddhism for over a thousand years. Visit its sacred sites before a seasonal vegetarian meal at our temple lodge.
Koya-san (Women’s pilgrimage day-walk) BD Today, you can relax in this mountain retreat, or join me on the Women’s Pilgrimage walk, which follows the perimeter of Koya-san. The Autumn trees should be ablaze with colour.
Koya-san to Kii Tanabe
BD
Today, start our walk of the Kumano Kodo on the Nakahechi track from Takijiri to Chikatsuyu. Although steep in parts, the views are terrific. Enjoy dinner at the minshuku by the river.
6 day-walks 1 onsen SUN 30OC
B
WED 2NO
Kyoto
B
THU 3NO
Kyoto (Mt Kurama day-walk) B Today, enjoy your day in Kyoto as you wish, or join me for a nice Autumn walk across Mt Kurama near the northern hills where I was raised.
FRI 4NO
SAT 5NO
Kawayu Onsen to Hayatama Taisha by boat, then Nachi Taisha
Join me for a walking tour of Kyoto, my hometown. Follow the Philosophers Path to Ginkakuji, where the trees should be about to turn.
Kyoto to Tsumago
BD
Tsumago to Narai
BD
(Magome to Tsumago walk) Today, we take a Shinkansen and train to Magome, then walk through hinoki forests and tea houses to the beautiful post-town of Tsumago.
(Yabuhara to Narai walk)
SUN 6NO
Narai to Tokyo via Matsumoto B Today, we take a train to Matsumoto, where we’ll visit the grand 16th century castle before heading into Tokyo. Try some ramen noodles by the railway viaduct in Yurakucho.
MON 7NO
Tokyo BD In the morning, we’ll walk to the end of the Nakasendo at Nihonbashi in central Tokyo before visiting Sensoji Temple in Asakusa to wish a safe journey home. At night, we’ll have our farewell dinner.
TUE 8NO
Tokyo, then travel home
BD
As in ancient tradition, we travel by river boat to Hayatama Taisha. From there, we make our way to Nachi Taisha to conclude our pilgrimage of the three shrines.
Travel by train around the Kii Peninsula to Kyoto, where you can sleep in a western bed!
After a short train ride to Yabuhara we walk over the Torii pass to reach another atmospheric post-town, Narai.
Chikatsuyu to Kawayu Onsen BD (Yunomine Onsen to Hongu Taisha walk) We’ll take the Akagigoe track up to Funatama Shrine, then rejoin the Nakahechi track for a panoramic walk through forests and villages, passing tea plantations and terraced fields. Reflect at the grand Hongu Taisha before bussing it to Kawayu Onsen to soak your feet.
MON 31OC
Nachi to Kyoto
BD
We make our way to Kii Tanabe via the spectacular skyline road. Eat up during our izakaya (Japanese pub) dinner for our walks ahead.
Kii Tanabe to Chikatsuyu (Takijiri to Chikatsuyu walk)
TUE 1NO
Kanazawa (via Shirakawago)
Day-walks safely r guiding us Thank you fo do, it was Ko o an m Ku along the & Regine great - Yoko
Koya-san Women’s Pilgrimage (7km) Takijiri to Chikatsuyu (13km) Yunomine Onsen to Hongu Taisha (14km) Mt Kurama to Kibune (4km) Magome to Tsumago (8km) Yabuhara to Narai (9km)
The river onse n at Kawayu is highly recomm ended - Jason
The small buddhist town of Koya-san is one of my favo urite places in Japan - Jason
B
Enjoy the last of Tokyo before transferring to Haneda or Narita for your flight home.
Kurashiki (via Himeji Castle) Miyajima (via Hiroshima)
Gero
KYOTO Nara KIX or ITM OSAKA Mt Koya Kii Tanabe Kawayu Chikatsuyu Nachi
East to West Golden Route with a stay on Miyajima Island Join me for this beautiful tour of Autumn colours across Japan. This relaxed itinerary has several two and three night stays giving you plenty of time to enjoy Japan in your own way. It would suit travellers who like aesthetic experiences in both natural and historical sites.
13 nights 11 Nov ~ 24 Nov In Tokyo Out Kyoto $5690
FRI 11NO
Travel to Tokyo
SAT 12NO
Tokyo
SUN 13NO
ask Riki 13 b’fasts 4 dinners
MON 14NO
TUE 15NO
2 day-walks 1 onsen
(Matsumoto) Narai Tsumago
WED 16NO
Arrive at Narita or Haneda by own arrangement with transfers provided into Tokyo.
BD
Take the Shinkansen, passing Mt Fuji, then a train into the hills for the onsen town of Gero. Soothe your feet and enjoy our kaiseki dinner.
Gero to Kanazawa via Shirakawago
B
Enjoy this lovely city with me. We’ll visit the Ninja Temple and 21st Century Museum, and also Kenrokuen, one of Japan’s best gardens.
THU 17NO
Kanazawa to Nara
B
FRI 18NO
Nara to Kurashiki via Himeji Castle
B
SAT 19NO
Kurashiki
B
Take a train to Nara, once the ancient capital of Japan where we’ll see the giant bronze Daibutsu (Buddha) and wander through the park.
Today, we’ll take a train and Shinkansen to Kurashiki, stopping by Japan’s best world heritage listed castle at Himeji.
We’ll visit the Ohara Museum of Art, then explore the charming canals and warehouses. Alternatively, garden lovers may want to visit Okayama for Korakuen garden, while those into ceramics may want to try a Bizen pottery experience.
TOKYO NRT or HND
An Autum n morning Park is so in Nara mething special Riki me Travelling with Riki had I experiencing things that - Ralph couldn’t have done alone
Miyajima to Kyoto (Mt Misen day-walk) B
TUE 22NO
Kyoto
WED 23NO
Kyoto (Kurama day-walk)
B
We’ll head further into the mountains for Kanazawa via the world heritage listed village of Shirakawago with its thatched roof houses.
Kanazawa
MON 21NO
B
Enjoy your day in Tokyo, or join an optional tour. I recommend the Kamakura tour, however the Nikko or Mt Fuji tours would also be good, depending on the weather.
Tokyo to Gero
Kurashiki to Miyajima via Hiroshima BD
BD
We’ll visit the old downtown area of Tokyo to wish a safe journey ahead at Sensoji Temple, and try indigo dyeing at a local store. Enjoy a welcome dinner at an izakaya (Japanese pub).
Tokyo (or optional day-tour)
SUN 20NO
THU 24NO
Travel by train and Shinkansen to Hiroshima for the Musuem & Peace Park, which should have lovely autumn colours. Then it’s a ferry over to Miyajma for the floating red O-Torii. Relax on the island for the morning, or walk up Mt Misen. The views of the inland sea are stunning. Then we’ll take a ferry, train and Shinkansen to Kyoto.
B
Enjoy a tour of Kyoto with me to visit Ryoanji (zen garden), the Golden Pavilion and Arashiyama for the Bamboo Forest and other sites.
BD
Have a free day in Kyoto, or join me on a walk in Autumn colour from Kibune to Kurama in the northern hills of Kyoto, my hometown area. At night, enjoy our farewell dinner.
Kyoto travel home
B
Relax in Kyoto before transferring to Itami or Kansai Airport for your flight home.
Day-walks
Mt Kurama north Kyoto (4km) Mt Misen on Miyajima in the inland sea (2.5km)
Please read these conditions carefully as they set out the basis upon which Riki’s Tours Japan Pty Ltd T/as Riki’s Tours Japan (ABN: 86606873223) accepts all bookings from travel customers. These Booking Terms together with the information in the Booking Form constitute contract between you and Riki’s Tours Japan. Riki’s Tours Japan is both a tour operator and a travel agent. As a tour operator, it plans itineraries and places to visit, and also involves Riki Inamura or his representative arranging, guiding and escorting the tours for his travel customers in Japan. These are group and/or independent tours. As a travel agent, it provides travel services to its customers, which essentially involves the booking of travel products provided by third parties such as airlines, transport companies, hotels and tour operators. Using this brochure or website and our service means you accept these Booking Terms. We reserve the right to amend our Booking Terms. 1. Interpretation Where we use the words “Riki’s Tours Japan”, “us”, “we” and/ or “our”, we are referring to Riki’s Tours Japan Pty Ltd T/as Riki’s Tours Japan. These Booking Terms apply to all bookings whether made in our office, online, through our website or by any other means of electronic communication. Where we use the words “traveller”, “you” and/ or “your”, we are referring to you as the travel customer. 2. Prices, Deposit and Full Payment Dates, itineraries and prices are valid from 01 July 2015 until 31 December 2016. For bookings made more than 90 days from the scheduled departure date, a non-refundable deposit of AU$500 per person per journey is due 5 days after confirmation. Full payment is due and payable to us 90 days prior to the scheduled date of tour departure and will be notified to you in your confirmation of booking. Prices are not guaranteed until payment has been made in full and documents have been processed and issued to you. Failure to pay a deposit within 5 days from the date of confirmation or in full by the due date may result in the automatic cancellation of your booking without refund of monies paid. All bookings are subject to availability at time of booking. 3. Inclusions Where you have booked a tour with us, the price of your tour includes as described in the itinerary all: accommodation, transport, sightseeing, services of the tour escort, and airport transfers in Japan on the first and last day of the tour (to the nearest international airport). 4. Exclusions Where you have booked a tour with us, unless specified in the itinerary, the price of your tour does not include: international flights, internal flights, taxes, excess baggage, meals, visa fees, passport costs, travel insurance, optional activities and all personal expenses. 5. Cancellation by the Traveller All cancellations must be received in writing. No refunds will be made for unused services, regardless of the reason. Cancellations are subject to the following cancellation fees applied per person, per confirmed booking: (a) For cancellations made more than 90 days before the scheduled tour departure date, the deposit will be forfeited to us. (b) For cancellations made between 46-89 days before the scheduled tour departure date, a cancellation fee of 50% of the tour costs will be payable. (c) For cancellations made within 45 days of the scheduled tour departure date, 100% of the tour costs will be payable. Cancellation of any third party suppliers’ arrangements will be subject to fees charged in accordance with that supplier. Refunds will not be given for unused or cancelled services after your arrangements have commenced. 6. Amendments by the traveller Amendment fees are not charged to the traveller unless we are charged by third party suppliers. Additional amendment charges may be charged by any suppliers such as airlines, hotels or other tour operators. Many suppliers deem a name change to constitute a cancellation, rather than an amendment and cancellation fees can apply in this instance. 7. Cancellation and amendments by Riki’s Tours Japan We reserve the right to cancel, reschedule or amend any itinerary in accordance with operating requirements or circumstances beyond its control. We are not responsible for any other travel arrangement affected due to our cancellations or amendments. Where amendments beyond our control require us to add or amend a service/s resulting in an increased operating cost, a surcharge may be payable by you for the additional or amended service/s. 8. Agency and third party providers You acknowledge that: (a) we are a travel agent and tour operator, and are not an accommodation, transport or event provider; (b) we are not responsible for, and make no warranty or representation about, third party suppliers, their products and services or information provided in this brochure or website about their products and services; and (c) we do not endorse any third party products or services contained in this brochure or website. Be advised that we have no control over, or liability for, the services provided by third parties and that most suppliers impose their own terms and conditions for the products and services they offer. We can provide you with copies of the relevant service provider’s terms and conditions on request. You may, after reading these terms decide that they are not acceptable to you and that you do not want to book that service provider. If that is the case, you should instruct us immediately to not book that service provider.
9. Limited liability, Consumer Claims and Exclusions Riki’s Tours Japan as the provider to you of services, as a travel agent and/ or as a tour operator, guarantees to you that those services will be provided to you with due care and skill, be reasonably fit or for their specified purpose, can be reasonably expected to achieve the desired result and will be provided to you within a reasonable time having regard to the circumstances. If we breach any of these statutory guarantees, then you may have rights under the Competition and Consumer Act 2010. Where we are liable to you under that Act then our liability is limited to supplying the services to you again or to paying the cost of having the services supplied again. To the fullest extent permitted by law, you release us from any liability to you for any loss, theft or damage to baggage or property, or for any injury, illness or death, whether any such loss, of property or personal injury or death is caused by the negligence of us or not. We are not liable to you for any damages, claims, injury, illness or death howsoever caused or arising directly or indirectly from accidents, loss, theft or damage to person or property, delays, transport failure, strikes, wars and uprisings or acts of God or nature over which we have no control. Where we work with various third party companies, agencies and individuals in order to provide the running of our tours and we are acting as agent for those third parties then we are not responsible for any acts or omissions of those third parties. 10. Prices All prices are in Australian Dollars and are valid at time of publication, but are subject to change. Prices represent land only twin share prices (single supplement prices are also given). We strive to make reasonable efforts to ensure our prices do not change, but we may be required to impose surcharges depending on currency fluctuations, changes in government legislation, air prices, fuel surcharges or other variables beyond our control. You acknowledge and agree that you shall be responsible for the prompt payment of all surcharges and price increases. Please contact us for up to date prices before booking. 11. Payment Payment can be by direct deposit, bank cheque or PayPal. However payments made through PayPal attract a 2.5% service fee. 12. Booking Form with Fit for Travel Statement All travellers are required to complete and return a Booking Form with the Fit for Travel Statement completed in order to receive confirmation. 13. Health and Fitness Your physical health and mental well-being are important to us. Please carefully consider if your choice of tour is appropriate for your level of health and fitness. Although our tours have no upper age limit, and are suitable for travellers with average health and fitness, we make use of local transport, which can be physically demanding for some travellers. This is because many Japanese train stations do not have lift access and may require a significant amount of walking to reach them. Where you have booked a tour with us, you acknowledge and agree that you can walk without help and can manage the movement of your own luggage. You must also disclose the details of any pre-existing medical conditions prior to travel. We reserve the right to request that you see your doctor to confirm that you are physically able to undertake the day-to-day requirements of your chosen tour. If you are concerned about your physical ability to undertake a tour, we can arrange a tailor-made itinerary for independent travel as an alternative. It is also your responsibility to ensure that you obtain medical advice at least two months prior to travel for the latest health requirements, recommendations for Japan (or any other country) and any costs. Where you do not do so, and either are not allowed to enter Japan (or any other country), or suffer personal injury or death as a result, we have no liability to you for any cost, loss or damage which you suffer nor will we refund you the cost of any unused portion of your travel arrangements. 14. Minimum and Maximum Number of Travellers The maximum group size of our tours is 10. A tour will operate once there are 2 confirmed travellers. Where minimum numbers are not reached at least 30 days prior to departure, you will be given the following options: (a) undertaking the journey on an independent basis. Any additional costs to arrange the journey on an independent basis will be advised to you. This option is available for most, but not all tours. (b) cancellation of participation without penalty, as long as you advise us of this option at least 20 days prior to journey departure. Be advised that some of our tours have been scheduled to fit with other tour departures to create a longer ‘combined’ tour. This means that some of your group may have already been travelling together by the time you join the tour. If you would like to know how many people are booked on your tour, or about any combined tour which it is part of, please contact us. 15. Children Our tours are open to travellers 10 years of age and over, however no traveller under 20 years of age can join our tour without being accompanied by a parent or guardian. 16. Tour Escort Authority When joining one of our tours, travellers must abide by and comply with the authority and reasonable directions of the tour escort who represents us. At all times, the decision of the tour escort will be final on matters concerning individual and group safety and well-being. If a tour escort decides that you do not have the required fitness for travel at any time, the tour escort may, in his/her sole reasonable discretion prevent you from further participation in the journey. In addition, should you fail to comply with a reasonable decision or direction of the tour escort, interfere with the well-being of others, fail to respect the
rights or beliefs of others, or commit an illegal, obscene or otherwise inappropriate act while on the tour, the tour escort may, in his/her reasonable discretion, prevent your further participation in the journey. In such cases, we will use our reasonable efforts to help with onward travel arrangements for the relevant traveller. However, no refund will be given for any unused portion of the journey in these cases. 17. Travel Advice and Travel Insurance We strongly recommend that you contact the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs or visit their website at smartraveller.gov.au. This website contains valuable information and advice including safety alert levels relating to your travel destinations. It also allows you to register your travel plans with that department so that you can be contacted if an emergency arises. It is a condition of travel on our tours that all travellers be adequately covered by travel insurance prior to departure. Insurance should cover personal accident and medical expenses, evacuation and repatriation, baggage loss, and cancellation or curtailment of holiday. Your insurance details must be supplied to us at least 30 days prior to departure. 18. Air Arrangements Tour prices are land only. They do not include airfares from or to your departing destination. Therefore, it is your responsibility to book suitable flights to allow sufficient time for meeting the scheduled tour departures dates and times in Japan. It is also your responsibility to advise us of your flight details in order for us to arrange your Japan-based airport transfers to/from your hotel. Be advised that all flights bookings are subject to the carrier’s conditions of carriage. It is your responsibility to carefully read and understand the terms and conditions that relate to your airfare and contact the relevant airline if you require further information. We accept no responsibility or liability for any costs incurred due to any problems experienced with your flights. It is your responsibility to contact the airline prior to departure to ensure there is no change to the scheduled departure time. 19. Hotel Bedding Configuration in Japan Japanese hotel rooms are usually smaller than what you may be used to and are often configured differently. Twin bedded rooms are the most common configuration and usually have more floor space than single or double rooms. Requests for specific bedding types can be made at the time of booking but they cannot be guaranteed. Triple share accommodation can be requested however it is often unavailable. There are no reductions in price for triple share travellers. 20. Feedback We value your feedback and strive to ensure your tour runs smoothly, however there are times when unforeseen problems may arise. In such cases, you should first seek the advice of your tour escort, who will try to resolve any problems at the time. If a problem is not resolved during your tour, you should send us written correspondence detailing the nature of your complaint as well as the efforts you went to resolve the problem while in Japan. Please send this correspondence to us with supporting documentation, within 30 days of the date of service delivery. We will not consider claims made after this period. We recommend that you forward all correspondence to us by email to our email address mail@rikitoursjapan.com.au scanning the relevant attachments. 21. Passport and visa requirements Visas, including transit visas, are the passenger’s own responsibility. Australians travelling with a valid Australian passport do not need a Japanese visa if their purpose of travel to Japan is for holiday activities and the proposed period of stay is no more than 90 days. However, please check with the Japanese Embassy for up to date information, and any particular requirements for your nationality or personal circumstances, and also that of each country you may be travelling through. You need to ensure that you have at least 6 months validity on your passport from the date of your departure. 22. Publicity You agree that we may use images of you taken on tour and any comments made in writing by you regarding the tour for publicity and promotion purposes. You grant us a perpetual, royalty-free, worldwide, irrevocable licence to use such images and comments for publicity and promotional purposes. 23. Your privacy By providing email and postal addresses on the Booking Form you have agreed to receive correspondence from us which may contain marketing, specials and promotional material. You acknowledge and agree that we may need to disclose some or all of the personal information of you and other members of your party for the purpose of arranging your tour as outlined in our Privacy Policy. 24. Website links You acknowledge that the inclusion of links on the website www.rikistoursjapan.com.au is not intended as an endorsement or recommendation of any linked site or its content of such sites. We do not guarantee that our website or any linked site will be free from viruses, or that the website or any linked website will be uninterrupted. 25. Errors & omissions We reserve the right to correct any errors in rates or content quoted or calculated for any tour, with immediate effect. We will use our reasonable endeavours to notify you of such corrections. 26. Governing law The Booking Terms and your use of this brochure or website, and all matters arising out of or in connection with them, are governed by the laws applicable in New South Wales.
3 July 2015
Riki’s Tours Japan PO Box 3146 Marrickville Metro NSW 2204 ph: (+61) 02 8188 1867 mail@rikistoursjapan.com.au ABN: 86606873223
Travel agents use: agency
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Tick requested tour: Classic Sakura
City Lights & Alpine Trails
Spirit of Japan
Tohoku Sakura
Earth & Fire
Autumn Colours
5 April 2016
14 May 2016
23 April 2016
13 October 2016
Independent itinerary
25 October 2016
Start date:____________________
11 Nov 2016
Traveller 1
Traveller 2
title & first name ______________________________________
title & first name ______________________________________
last name
last name
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preferred name ______________________________________
preferred name ______________________________________
occupation
occupation
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postal address ______________________________________
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best phone
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best phone
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I have attached a copy of my passport photo page. (tick)
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Emergency contact (person not travelling with you)
Emergency contact (person not travelling with you)
full name
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full name
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best phone
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best phone
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relationship
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relationship
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Travel insurance (provide at least 60 days before departure)
Travel insurance (provide at least 60 days before departure)
insurance provider
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insurance provider __________________________________
policy number
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contact number
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Fit to Travel Statement
Fit to Travel Statement
I can walk at length unaided. y / n _______________________
I can walk at length unaided. y / n _______________________
I can handle my luggage.
y / n _______________________
I can handle my luggage.
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I have allergies.
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I have allergies.
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I have diabetes.
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I have a special diet.
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I have a special diet.
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I have a chronic illness.
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I have a chronic illness.
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I have consulted a doctor about my health for this tour. y / n
Traveller 1 Declaration
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This booking is subject to Riki’s Tours Japan Booking Terms which are fully set out on the facing page of this brochure and on our website in a larger font. The booking terms form part of your contract with Riki’s Tours Japan. name
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Please return this booking form by email or snail mail with a copy of each traveller’s passport photo page.
rikistoursjapan.com.au mail@rikistoursjapan.com.au [+61] 02 8188 1867 facebook.com/rikistoursjapan PO Box 3146 Marrickville Metro 2204 ABN 86606873223 Copyright Riki’s Tours Japan Pty Ltd © 2015 Brochure design by Jason Longmore Illustrations by Leonie Cheetham: facebook.com/leoniecheethamart All photographs by Riki Inamura on tour (except Ginza p.9 by Zengamae cc 2.0, and Ichiogama Kiln p.11 by Kimura Hajime) Printed on 100% recycled waste paper by Cosmoprint Marrickville: cosmoprint.com.au
Thank you to all our fellow travellers past, present and future for making Riki’s Tours Japan possible. Riki Inamura Director & Tour Escort Jason Longmore Riki’s Business Assistant Daisuke Inamura In-country Assistant Yoshiko Hatanaka In-country Assistant
Riki’s Tours Japan supports Devil Ark to protect Tasmanian Devils