FRIENDLY SMALL GROUP TOURS OF JAPAN WITH RIKI INAMURA
RIKISTOURSJAPAN.COM.AU
OOKINI (THANK YOU) FOR PICKING UP THIS BROCHURE TO READ ABOUT MY TOURS, RIKI’S TOURS JAPAN. 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 also Japanese travellers to all corners of the globe. My focus is on personal service. With the help of a small team, I design, arrange, and escort all tours. This means you know who’ll be looking after you and your tour from beginning to end. My tours are also unique. I’ll take you to special places of great natural, historic and social interest. Let’s share some wonderful food, beautiful nature and happy experiences together in Japan.
Most of my tours also include rejuvenating day-walks. They’re suitable for all travelers, but will still get you to some far away places. The City Lights & Alpine Trails tour will take you to a remote valley on the roof of Japan, and the North to Kamui Mintara tour will see you in a beautiful gorge of brilliant green foliage and gentle waterfalls. I also have two new Sakura tours that will take you to some unique hanami (flower viewing) sites. Both include castle visits with the sakura petals floating around you. I’ve chosen comfortable places to stay that provide you with the best access to transport, shopping, eating, and sightseeing opportunities. 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 I’ve got many great memories of last season’s travellers, why don’t you join me? tours. A particular highlight was the sake tasting event under the stunning displays of sakura in Matsumoto. There was also the spectacular grand Sumo finale in Tokyo where Yokuzuna Hakuho took out his 26th title. This season, I’m really excited about taking you to Yakushima Island and the Kumanokodo pilgrimage walk. Both are World Heritage sites. Yakushima is for nature lovers who want to tramp through primeval forests and see native animals, while Kumanokodo will get you closer to understanding Japan’s ancient mix of Buddhist and Shinto belief.
Riki
OUTSTANDING! REMARKABLE! We like Japan very much! We’ve been there 10 times and Riki was our best tour guide we ever experienced. Since the time we arrived at the hotel from Narita Airport, his outstanding work was so remarkable. Thanks a lot to Riki. CORNELIS & SRI EHRENBURG, SYDNEY
Even though I cook and eat lots of Japanese food in Sydney, I always love returning to Japan where I can eat the delicious seasonal treats. I really look forward to takenoko (bamboo shoots) in Spring, and sanma (Pacific saury fish) in Autumn. If you come to Kyoto with me, I’ll take you to Wontana, my family’s long standing favourite restaurant, so please eat with me there.
YAKUSHIMA WORLD HERITAGE DAYS $3190 Primeval forest hikes among island peaks 2013: Sat 23 Nov – Sat 30 Nov 2014: Sat 13 Sep – Sat 20 Sep
SPIRIT OF JAPAN DAYS $2690 Mt Koya & Kumanokodo pilgrimage walks 2013: Thu 14 Nov – Thu 21 Nov 2014: Thu 20 Nov – Thu 27 Nov
AUTUMN COLOURS DAYS $3690 Golden mountain walks & Naoshima island art sites 2013: Sat 30 Nov – Wed 11 Dec 2014: Wed 26 Nov – Sun 7 Dec
CLASSIC SAKURA DAYS $3990 Tokyo to Kyoto full bloom experience 2014: Mon 31 Mar – Thu 10 Apr
SAKURA HIGHLAND DAYS $2990 Kyoto to Tokyo via snow monkeys & mountain blossoms 2014: Sun 13 Apr – Sun 20 Apr
CITY LIGHTS & ALPINE TRAILS DAYS $3690 Kyoto to Tokyo via the roof of Japan 2014: Sat 17 May – Tue 27 May 2014: Sat 20 Sep – Tue 30 Sep
NORTH TO KAMUI MINTARA DAYS $3490 Spring green nature walks from Tokyo to Hokkaido 2014: Sat 24 May – Wed 4 Jun
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A WONDERFUL TIME! Riki is such a great person to travel with. I often think of how much he helped me. I had a wonderful time with his assistance for which I’ll always be truly grateful. THELMA STEWART PERTH
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All transport, accommodation, meals and walks described. The services of the tour escort. Airport-hotel transfers in Japan. Tour prices are land only.
See rikistoursjapan.com.au for the hotels on your tour. Comfortable 3+ star hotels have been selected to give you the best access to transport, food and sightseeing in each location. Most Japanese style ryokan, minshuku (B&B) and temple lodgings do not have star ratings due to their unique style.
Kyoto is my home town, and it’s the city to visit if you want to get hold of some traditional Japanese craftwork. apporo ner in S in d ll e w Fare
Kyoto crafts were originally developed for the Emperor and the people around him, but later the craftsmen made them for more ordinary people. Beautiful and detailed textiles are easy to find, and the tools for making them are also unique and beautiful. I spent one afternoon with a traveller looking for traditional sewing needles in Kyoto. Tell me what you like, and I’ll help you to find it.
7 DAY DIY TOURS FROM $999 6 night’s accommodation (3 star) 7 Day Ordinary JR Pass Personalised itineraries
DIY 1 TOKYO-HIROSHIMA-KYOTO HIGHLIGHTS Tokyo Skytree Half day tour in Kyoto Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
AUTUMN HERITAGE TOUR YAKUSHIMA WORLD HERITAGE & AUTUMN COLOURS
DIY 2 WEST JAPAN MODERN ART & GARDENS
19 DAYS $6490 2013: 23 NOV TO 11 DEC
SPRING GREEN TOUR CITY LIGHTS & ALPINE TRAILS & NORTH TO KAMUI MINTARA
Taking
an onse n
DIY 3 THREE JAPAN THEME PARKS
19 DAYS $5990 2014: 17 MAY TO 4 JUN
Choose from: Tokyo Disneyland Tokyo DisneySea Toei Kyoto Studio Park Universal Studio Osaka Fuji-Q Highland Nagashima Resort
SUMMER GREEN TOUR YAKUSHIMA WORLD HERITAGE & CITY LIGHTS & ALPINE TRAILS
19 DAYS $6490 2014: 13 SEP TO 30 SEP
AUTUMN SPIRIT TOUR SPIRIT OF JAPAN & AUTUMN COLOURS
17 DAYS $5790 2014: 20 NOV TO 6 DEC
Garden visits in Kyoto, Kanazawa, Okayama,Takamatsu 21st Century Museum in Kanazawa Naoshima Benesse Art Site
Japan’s , one of n e u k a r Ko rdens best ga
TAILORED TOURS & EXPERIENCES Riki can organise your tailored tour: art, design, festivals, food, hiking, history, onsens, performing arts, skiing, sport, temple stays, textiles, and more.
PRIMEVAL FOREST HIKES
AMONG ISLAND PEAKS
DAYS
BREAKFASTS
NIGHTS ACCOM
$3190
LUNCHES
DAY-WALKS
$500
DINNERS
2013: SAT 23 NOV – SAT 30 NOV 2014: SAT 13 SEP – SAT 20 SEP TRAVEL TO FUKUOKA
Arrive Fukuoka by own arrangement with transfers provided. For an evening snack, stop by one of the city’s famed yatai (street vendors) for a steaming bowl of tonkotsu ramen.
FUKUOKA
Visit the 10th century Dazaifu Tenmangu shrine and the Kyushu National Museum set spectacularly on a mountain side. If you’re on the November tour, you’ll also get to see a sumo tournament.
FUKUOKA TO IBUSUKI
Head south by Shinkansen to Kagoshima (2hr), and then take a local train to Ibusuki, where a hot sand bath awaits you. Dinner is provided in our onsen hotel.
YAKUSHIMA TO KYOTO
Fly to Osaka, and transfer to Kyoto. The colours will be stunning with the September tour seeing late Summer greens, and the November tour seeing Autumn hues. Enjoy a walk in the beautiful area of Gion, then have a special meal at Wontana, Riki’s family favourite.
KYOTO, TRAVEL HOME
Explore your last day in Kyoto before transferring to Kansai or Itami for your flight home. Alternatively, you may want Riki to arrange a few more nights for you in Kyoto.
IBUSUKI TO YAKUSHIMA & SHIRATANI UNSUIKYO WALK
Catch a ferry across to Yakushima, then make a 3-4 hour foray into Shiratani Unsuikyo, a stunning ravine set deep in the forests, and the site that inspired the setting for Miyazaki Hayao’s film, Princess Mononoke. We then take a bus south to our onsen hotel for dinner.
MT KUROMIDAKE WALK
Today, we make use of a local guide to Kuromidake for a fantastic 6-8 hour hike that reveals the alpine side of Yakushima’s character in one day. At 1831m, Kuromidake gives stunning 360 degree views if the weather gods smile on us. Dinner and onsen at our hotel.
YAKUSUGILANDO WALK
The Kohana course in Yakusugilando is a great 3-4 hour adventure that takes in some beautiful forests, swing bridges and cedar trees. Alternatively, you could take the long Jomonsugi track to reach a cedar tree that has been dated at over 2700 years old. This walk takes approximately 10 hours though, so you’ll need to rise early. Return for dinner and an onsen.
Visit the 10th century Dazaifu Tenmangu shrine. Visit the Kyushu National Museum. See a sumo tournament in Fukuoka (Nov 2013 only). Take a hot sand bath with views of a volcano. Walk the ancient forests of UNESCO World Heritage listed Yakushima Island.
Shiratani Unsuikyo Taiko Rock (3-4hr) Mt Kuromidake with guide (6-8hr) Yakusugilando (2-3hr) / Jomonsugi Track (8-10hr)
Yakush
ima Dee r
MT KOYA & KUMANOKODO
PILGRIMAGE WALKS
DAYS
BREAKFASTS
NIGHTS ACCOM
$2690
LUNCHES
DAY-WALKS
$300
DINNERS
2013: THU 14 NOV – THU 21 NOV 2014: THU 20 NOV – THU 27 NOV TRAVEL TO OSAKA
Arrive in Kansai or Itami by own arrangement with transfers provided. If you need a late night snack, try one of Osaka’s specialities. Street vendors pop up after dark and serve tasty treats such as takoyaki (fried octopus dumplings) and kitsune udon noodles.
OSAKA TO MT KOYA
We take a train (2hr) and cable-car to Mt Koya, which has been Japan’s centre of Shingon Buddhism for over a thousand years. Visit the sacred sites of Kongobuji (main temple), Konpon Daito (pagoda) and Okunoin (Kukai’s mausoleum) before heading for our temple lodging. Time for meditation and sutras. Enjoy an evening meal at the lodge.
MT KOYA TO KII TANABE Mount K oya
KAWAYU ONSEN TO HAYATAMA TAISHA BY BOAT, THEN NACHI
As in ancient tradition, we travel by river boat for our journey to the Hayatama Taisha. From there, we make our way to the Nachi Tasha to conclude our pilgrimage of the three shrines. We stay by the waterfall for the night at a minshuku where dinner is provided.
NACHI TO KYOTO
Today, we make a train journey (4.5hr) toKyoto, where we can enjoy a farewell meal together.
KYOTO, TRAVEL HOME
Catch the last of Kyoto’s delights before transferring to Kansai or Itami airport. Talk with Riki before booking if you would like to extend your stay.
Spend the morning at leisure around Mt Koya before making our way to Kii Tanabe (Xhr) via the spectacular skyline road. Eat up during our Izakaya (Japanese pub) dinner to prepare for our pilgrimage walks ahead.
TAKIJIRI TO CHIKATSUYU WALK
Catch a local bus to the start of the Kumanokodo pilgrimage walk. Visit the drop-in centre before making our way on this 13km leg from Takijiri to Chikatsuyu. Although steep in parts, the views are terrific. Enjoy dinner and an onsen at the minshuku by the river.
Stay at a temple lodge on Mt Koya. Walk part of the ancient Kumanokodo; one of only two UNESCO World Heritage listed pilgrimage routes (the other being Santiago de Compostela in Spain). Visit Kumano’s three major shrines: Hongu, Hayatama & Nachi. Experience the Kumano River on a boat trip.
HOSSHINMON TO HONGU TAISHA WALK
After breakfast, we take a local bus to Hosshinmon. Enjoy a panoramic 7km walk through forests and villages, passing tea plantations and terraced fields. Spend time reflecting at the grand Hongu Taisha before making our way to Kawayu Onsen by local bus for dinner and to soak our feet.
Takijiri to Chikatsuyu (13km) Hosshinmon to Hongu Taisha (7km)
2013: SAT 30 NOV – WED 11 DEC 2014: WED 26 NOV – SUN 7 DEC TRAVEL TO KYOTO
HIROSHIMA TO TOKYO
Arrive in Kyoto by own arrangement with transfers provided.
Head for Tokyo by Shinkansen (4.5hr), where you can spend the afternoon at leisure or shopping in Ginza.
KYOTO
TOKYO
Join a tour of Kyoto including Nijo Castle and the Golden Pavilion. Enjoy an evening of Japanese performing arts at Gion Corner.
Wish a safe return home at Sensoji Temple, then try your hand at weaving in a local community store. Visit Ueno Park, and then spend the afternoon as you wish.
MT KURAMA DAY-WALK
Rejuvenate on a 4.5 km day-walk in Autumn colour from Kibune to Mt Kurama. Have dinner at Wontana, Riki’s family favourite.
KYOTO TO NARA
TOKYO & MT TAKAO DAY-WALK
Visit the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and Zen Gardens before travelling to Nara (45min) where we’ll see the World Heritage listed Daibutsu, the largest Bronze Buddha in the world.
Join Riki on a 4.5km walk of Mt Takao in western Tokyo. Or you could join a tour of Mt Fuji & Hakone or Nikko. Enjoy your farewell dinner at Ginza.
TOKYO, THEN TRAVEL HOME
Day at leisure in Tokyo, then transfer to Narita or Haneda for your flight home.
MT KASUGA DAY-WALK, THEN TAKAMATSU
Our morning walk takes us into the primeval forest of Mt Kasuga in Autumn light. In the afternoon, we head south-west by train and Shinkansen (3 hr) to Takamatsu on Shikoku island.
TAKAMATSU, BENESSE ART SITE OF NAOSHIMA AND INUJIMA
Today, you’ll be free to visit the Benesse art sites on the islands of Naoshima and Inujima. Ferry hop from island to island as you wish before returning to Takamatsu.
TAKAMATSU TO MIYAJIMA
Explore the 400 year old Ritsurin Garden, then journey to Miyajima to view the famous O-Torii (noble red gate). Enjoy the night scenery and kaiseki dinner at our Ryokan.
Enjoy a half-day tour of Kyoto. Watch Japanese performing arts at Gion Corner. Explore Benesse Art Site on Naoshima and Inujima. Visit 17th century Ritsurin Garden in Takamatsu. Stay at a traditional ryokan on Miyajima with a kaiseki dinner. Reflect at the Hiroshima Peace Park & Museum. Experience traditional weaving at Asakusa.
MT MISEN DAY-WALK, THEN HIROSHIMA
Cable car up sacred Mt Misen to see great views of the inland sea. Then walk 2.5 km down for the ferry to Hiroshima’s Peace Park & Museum and its brilliant maple leaves. Try okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes) here.
Mt Kurama (4.5km) Mt Kasuga (5km) Mt Misen (2.5km) Mt Takao (4.5km)
DAYS
BREAKFASTS
NIGHTS ACCOM
$3690
DINNERS
DAY-WALKS
$500
in Autumn Enjoying to Kyo
GOLDEN MOUNTAIN WALKS & NAOSHIMA ISLAND ART SITES
TOKYO TO KYOTO FULL BLOOM EXPERIENCE DAYS
BREAKFASTS
$3990
LUNCHES
$400
DINNERS
NIGHTS ACCOM
2014: MON 31 MAR – THU 10 APR TRAVEL TO TOKYO
Arrive Narita or Kansai by own arrangement with transfers provided.
TOKYO
Visit Sensoji Temple to wish a safe journey, and try your hand at weaving in a local community store. Then we’ll Sakura hunt at secret parks & gardens. At night, have a welcome dinner at an Izakaya (Japanese style pub).
TOKYO
Enjoy Tokyo at leisure. You may wish to join a tour of Mt Fuji & Hakone, or Nikko for the Toshogu Shrine.
TOKYO TO HIKONE CASTLE
Visit Shinjuku Gyoen, then catch the Shinkansen west to Hikone (2.5hr), where we’ll have an evening of hanami (flower viewing) around the 16th century castle and Spring dinner.
HIROSHIMA TO KYOTO
Shinkansen to Kyoto (2.5hr), where we’ll see a special Spring performance of Miyako Odori (dancing). Later, enjoy hanami (flower viewing) at Maruyama Park.
KYOTO
Join a tour of Kyoto including Nijo Castle, the Golden Pavilion and Imperial Palace. In the afternoon, follow the Philosopher’s Path under the Sakura trees to the Silver Pavilion.
KYOTO
Have the day at leisure in this lovely city. Be sure to relax by the Kamo riverside. At night, enjoy a farewell dinner at Wontana, Riki’s family favourite.
KYOTO, TRAVEL HOME
Day at leisure in Kyoto, then transfer to Kansai or Itami for your flight home.
HIKONE TO KURASHIKI . me for.. hat I ca w is is Th
Morning hanami, then head for Kurashiki (3hr), a historic town of beautiful canals and black & white warehouses. Try Bukkake Udon, a popular restaurant dating from the Edo-period. Also visit the Ohara Museum of Art.
KURASHIKI TO MIYAJIMA
We make a short trip to Miyajima to view the floating red O-Torii. As night falls, enjoy a quiet stroll around this peaceful island and then a traditional kaiseki dinner.
MIYAJIMA TO HIROSHIMA
Cable car to the top of Mt Misen to see splendid views of the inland sea. Then we’ll make our way by ferry to Hiroshima for the Peace Park & Museum.
Experience traditional weaving in Asakusa. Visit the Oedo Museum in Tokyo with a special tempura lunch. Enjoy hanami (flower viewing) at Hikone Castle with an evening meal. Visit the Ohara Museum of Art in Kurashiki. Stay at a traditional Ryokan on Miyajima with a kaiseki dinner. Reflect at the Hiroshima Peace Park & Museum. Enjoy a half-day tour of Kyoto including the Imperial Palace. Watch Miyako Odori (Spring season dance) at Gion.
2014: SUN 13 APR – SUN 20 APR TRAVEL TO KYOTO
Arrive Kansai or Itami by own arrangement with transfers provided to Kyoto. Take a night stroll along the beautiful Horikawa canal.
KYOTO
Join a tour of Kyoto including the Imperial Palace & Golden Pavilion, then explore Heian Shrine. Later, see Miyako Odori (dancing) and have a welcome dinner at Wontana, Riki’s family favourite.
KYOTO OR HIROSHIMA & MIYAJIMA DAY-TRIP
SNOW MONKEYS, THEN YUDANAKA TO TOKYO.
A short walk will take us to the snow monkeys, which you’ll see bathing in a natural hot spring. Then we’ll take a train and Shinkansen to Tokyo (3hr).
TOKYO, TRAVEL HOME
Free time in Tokyo then transfer to Narita or Haneda for your flight home. Talk to Riki when you book about arranging a longer stay in Tokyo.
Spend your day exploring Kyoto, or join Riki for a day-trip to Hiroshima for the Peace Park & Museum, and Miyajima to see the floating red O-Torii.
KYOTO TO MATSUMOTO VIA TSUMAGO
Shinkansen to Nagoya, and then we’ll head for the alps (2hr), where the Sakura should be in full bloom. We’ll stop by the old post town of Tsumago on the historic Nakasendo. The samurai used to traverse this path between Edo (Tokyo) and Kyoto. We’ll try hand-made soba (buckwheat noodles) here.
MATSUMOTO
Today, there’ll be plenty of time to explore the magnificent 16th century Matsumoto castle and enjoy hanami (flower viewing) in its grounds.
MATSUMOTO TO YUDANAKA VIA NAGANO
Enjoy a half-day tour of Kyoto including the Imperial Palace. Watch Miyako Odori (Spring season dance) at Gion. Try hand-made soba noodles in the old mountain post town of Tsumago. Enjoy hanami (flower viewing) at Matsumoto Castle. Visit the 7th century Zenkoji Temple in Nagano. Stay at a traditional ryokan where you can take an onsen bath and enjoy a kaiseki dinner. Watch snow monkeys bathing in a hot spring.
We’ll take a train deeper into the Alps (1.5hr), stopping in Nagano to visit Zenkoji Temple. Dating from the 7th century, it’s one of Japan’s oldest. Then we’ll make our way to Yudanaka, where you can relax in the onsen and enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner.
DAYS
BREAKFASTS
$2990
LUNCHES
$200
DINNERS
KYOTO TO TOKYO
VIA SNOW MONKEYS & MOUNTAIN BLOSSOMS
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NIGHTS ACCOM
Wish yo u were here.
KYOTO TO TOKYO
VIA THE ROOF OF JAPAN Loved T okyo’s n ight sky
DAYS
BREAKFASTS
NIGHTS ACCOM
$3690
DINNERS
DAY-WALKS
$300
2014: SAT 17 MAY – TUE 27 MAY 2014: SAT 20 SEP – TUE 30 SEP TRAVEL TO KYOTO
Arrive Kansai or Itami by own arrangement with transfers provided to Kyoto.
KYOTO
Have a tour of Kyoto, including the Golden Pavilion. Later, see Japanese performing arts and enjoy a welcome dinner at Wontana, Riki’s family favourite.
KYOTO OR HIROSHIMA & MIYAJIMA DAY-TRIP
Explore Kyoto at leisure, or join Riki for a day-trip to Hiroshima for the Peace Park & Museum, and Miyajima to see the floating red O-Torii.
KYOTO TO GERO ONSEN
Visit Arashiyama Bamboo Forests, then take the Shinkansen east and up to the Alps for Gero Onsen (2.5hr), famous for its hot springs. Enjoy hida-beef for our kaiseki dinner, then relax in the onsen.
TSUMAGO TO TOKYO
Walk part of the Nakasendo, the path once used by samurai travelling between Kyoto and Edo. Catch a local train then connecting Shinkansen (3hr) into Tokyo.
TOKYO
Wish a safe return home at Sensoji Temple, then try your hand at weaving in a local community store. Visit the Oedo Museum and see the Tokyo Sumo Tournament. Later, enjoy our farewell dinner at an Izakaya (Japanese pub).
MT TAKAO DAY-WALK
Join Riki on a 4.5km walk of Mt Takao in western Tokyo. Alternatively, you may wish to join a tour of Mt Fuji & Hakone or Nikko for the Toshogu Shrine.
TOKYO, TRAVEL HOME
Free time in Tokyo, then transfer to Narita or Haneda for your flight home.
GERO ONSEN TO KAMIKOCHI VIA SHOGAWA VALLEY
Journey by bus to the roof of Japan via World Heritage listed Shirakawa village, where you can see thatched roof houses. Then we travel up to the remote alpine valley of Kamikochi at 1500m.
KAMIKOCHI DAY-WALK
You could just relax for the day in this spectacular setting, or join Riki for a 6.5km walk to Myojin Pond. Keen hikers can add a 2 hour climb to Dakesawa, which has grand views of the valley.
KAMIKOCHI TO TSUMAGO VIA MATSUMOTO CASTLE
Travel to the historic village of Tsumago via Matsumoto, where we’ll stop to see the splendid 16th century castle. Try hand-made soba (buckwheat noodles) here.
Have a half day tour of Kyoto. Take a hot spring bath in a traditional onsen town. Visit Shirakawa village in the Shogawa Valley. Enjoy a day walking in Kamikochi in the Japan Alps. Visit Matsumoto Castle. Walk part of the old Nakasendo route in the Kiso Valley. Experience traditional weaving in Asakusa. Visit the Oedo Museum. See a sumo tournament in Tokyo.
Kamikochi Myojin Pond (6.5km), Nakasendo (8km) Mt Takao (4.5km)
2014: SAT 24 MAY – WED 4 JUN ARRIVE TOKYO
Arrive Narita or Haneda by own arrangement with transfers provided.
TOKYO
Wish a safe journey at Sensoji Temple, then try your hand at weaving in a local community store. Visit the Oedo Museum and see the Tokyo Sumo Tournament. Later, enjoy our welcome dinner at an Izakaya (Japanese pub).
MT TAKAO DAY-WALK
Join Riki on a 4.5km walk of Mt Takao in western Tokyo. Alternatively, you may wish to join a tour of Mt Fuji & Hakone or Nikko for the Toshogu Shrine.
TOKYO TO SENDAI & MATSUSHIMA
Catch the Shinkansen (2.5hr) north to Sendai. Visit Matsushima for a cruise on one of Japan’s prettiest island studded bays.
LAKE TOYA TO ASAHIDAKE (KAMUI MINTARA)
Travel to the base village of Asahidake, the highest peak in Hokkaido, which is known as Kamui Mintara in the local Ainu language. Enjoy a night sky lecture, dinner and onsen.
KAMUI MINTARA DAY-WALK
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.
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ASAHIDAKE TO SAPPORO
We make our way down to Sapporo, where you are free to explore this cosmopolitan little city. Reward yourself with zangi (Hokkaido style fried chicken) and Sapporo beer.
SAPPORO, THEN TRAVEL HOME
Sapporo at leisure, then transfer to Chitose for your flight home.
SENDAI TO LAKE TOWADA & OIRASE GORGE DAY-WALK
Shinkansen further north to Oirase (2hr) to walk 9km up the verdant gorge to Lake Towada. Take an onsen at the hotel before dinner.
OIRASE GORGE TO HAKODATE
Visit Towada Art Centre, then journey under the sea to Hokkaido and the port city of Hakodate. Try seafood donburi (rice bowl) here. Take a gondola for a stunning night vista.
ONUMA NP DAY-WALK
Have a walk around Onuma wetlands, which was formed by volcanic eruption in 1929. Later, visit the historic Goryokaku Fort.
HAKODATE TO LAKE TOYA
Experience traditional weaving in Asakusa. Visit the Oedo Museum. See a sumo tournament in Tokyo. Cruise Matsushima Bay. Visit the Towada Art Centre.
Mt Takao (4.5km) Oirase Gorge (9km) Onuma Lakes (3-4km) Mt Usu Volcanic Global Geopark (3-4km) Mt Asahidake (2-9km)
Train to the lakeside village of Toya (1.5 hr). Walk the Mt Usu area, a smouldering volcano, then soothe your feet in an onsen. DAYS
BREAKFASTS
NIGHTS ACCOM
$3490
DINNERS
DAY-WALKS
$500 Brilliant
SPRING GREEN NATURE WALKS
FROM TOKYO TO HOKKAIDO
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locals with the At one
CONTACT RIKI FOR A BOOKING FORM OR SEE RIKISTOURSJAPAN.COM.AU Please read these conditions carefully as they set out the basis upon which Riki Inamura T/as Riki’s Tours Japan (ABN: 60140707089) 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 Inamura T/as Riki’s Tours Japan is a licensed travel agent and member of the Travel Compensation Fund, NSW Travel Agents Licence No. 2TA10306. Riki’s Tours Japan is both a travel agent and a tour operator. 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, cruise companies, hotels and tour operators. As a tour operator, it plans itineraries and places to visit, and also involves Riki or his representative arranging, guiding and escorting the tours for his travel customers in Japan. These are independent and/ or group tours. 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 Inamura 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 2013 until 31 December 2014. For bookings made more than 60 days from the scheduled departure date, a non-refundable deposit of AU$250 per person per journey is due 5 days after confirmation. Full payment is due and payable to Riki’s Tours Japan 60 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: all accommodation as described in the itinerary, all transport as described in the itinerary, sightseeing and meals as described in the itinerary, the services of the tour escort as described in the itinerary, airport transfers in Japan on the first and last day of the tour (to the nearest international airport) as described in the itinerary.
4. EXCLUSIONS
Where you have booked a tour with us, the price of your tour does not include: international or internal flights unless specified, taxes and excess baggage charges unless specified, meals other than those specified in the itinerary, visa and passport fees, 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 60 days before the scheduled tour departure date, the deposit will be forfeited to Riki’s Tours Japan. (b) For cancellations made between 31-59 days before the scheduled tour departure date, a cancellation fee of 50% of the tour costs will be payable. (c) For cancellations made within 30 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 Riki’s Tours Japan is 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
Riki’s Tours Japan reserves 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 Con-
sumer 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 Riki’s Tours Japan 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 Riki’s Tours Japan or not. Riki’s Tours Japan is 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 Riki’s Tours Japan has no control. Where Riki’s Tours Japan works with various third party companies, agencies and individuals in order to provide the running of our tours and Riki’s Tours Japan is 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 credit card, direct deposit or bank cheque. Credit card payments can be made securely through PAYPAL once your invoice has been received. You do not need to be a member of PAYPAL to use this service, however payments made through PAYPAL attract a 2.5% service fee. You can avoid this fee by making payment by direct deposit or paying by bank cheque.
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 very 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 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. Riki’s Tours Japan reserves 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,
THANK YOU RIKI FOR A FABULOUS HOLIDAY Japan is a wonderful country to visit and Riki makes it fantastic. On my tour, Riki took care of every detail and really understood my interests and preferences. He knows Japan really well and generously shares his knowledge and experiences. My highlights included wonderful nature walks, fabulous food and beautiful gardens. Thank you Riki for a fabulous holiday. ANNETTE HOGAN BRISBANE
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 Riki’s Tours Japan 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 Riki’s Tours Japan.
that all travellers are 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/times in Japan. It is also your responsibility to advise Riki’s Tours Japan 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. Riki’s Tours Japan accepts 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
Riki’s Tours Japan are open to travellers 12 years of age and over, however all travellers under 20 years of age cannot join our tour without being accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Rooms in Japanese hotels are usually smaller than what many western travellers are used to and are often configured differently. Twin bedded rooms are the most common configuration in Japanese hotels and usually have a larger floor space than single or double rooms. Requests for specific bedding types can be made at the time of booking, however they cannot be guaranteed. Triple share accommodation can be requested, but it is often unavailable. There are no reductions in price for triple share travellers.
16. TOUR ESCORT AUTHORITY
20. FEEDBACK
15. CHILDREN
When joining one of our tours, travellers must abide by and comply with the authority and reasonable directions of the tour escort who represents Riki’s Tours Japan. 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 www.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 to facilitate you being contacted if an emergency arises. It is a condition of travel on Riki’s Tours Japan
22. PUBLICITY
You agree that Riki’s Tours Japan may use images of you taken during the 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 Riki’s Tours Japan 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. Riki’s Tours Japan does not guarantee that its 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.
We value your feedback and strive to ensure your tour runs happily and 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 Riki’s Tours Japan , 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.
Kick !!
EXCEEDED ALL OUR EXPECTATIONS This would be the best overseas guided tour my wife and I have been on. She wanted to see the Sakura blossoms for her birthday, which we had heard so much about, and I wanted a ride on a bullet train and visit the Snow Monkeys. All this was achieved plus more and exceeded all our expectations. I can only put this down to our tour guide, Riki Inamura, with his professional and expert knowledge of Japan, which was fantastic. We got to see and visit everything in his tour plus more. He was very friendly and easy to get along with. Nothing was ever a problem. We highly recommend Riki’s Tours Japan. ALAN & JAN MOULE SYDNEY
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RIKI’S TOURS JAPAN SUPPORTS DEVIL ARK TO PROTECT TASMANIAN DEVILS
I’ve been living in Australia for seven years now, and I call Sydney home, but I miss the way the seasons make me feel in Japan. So I like going back, whether it’s for the golden leaves in Autumn, eating mikan (mandarins) in Winter, the sakura petals in Spring or the sound of cicadas in Summer. It affects the way I think and behave. As you look out from a window of a train in Japan, you will see the changing colours of nature. I’m sure it will affect the way you feel too.