JAN 2019
APAC Newsletter
WIN
Exclusive The Fullerton Postmaster Teddy Bears
Uncover Asia Pacific’s Hidden Gems
Top Escapes For The Lunar New Year
~ Page 5 - 15
Timeless Quotes That Inspire Travel
~ Page 18 - 23
~ Page 26 - 37
FOREWORD
WEBBEDS ASIA PACIFIC DARYL LEE CEO Daryl.Lee@webbeds.com SUN KOK SHENG CCO Koksheng.Sun@webbeds.com CYNDI NG COO Cyndi.Ng@webbeds.com KEVIN KHOR Vice President, Marketing Kevin.Khor@webbeds.com EILEEN TOK Vice President, Commercial Technology Eileen.Tok@webbeds.com ABBA LEE Vice President, Sourcing Abba.Lee@jactravel.com
FOREWORD Welcome to January’s edition of Travel Aggregator – the first ever printed copy of WebBeds’ monthly travel trade newsletter! In this issue, WebBeds’ very own team of executives recommends their favourite destinations and hidden gems in some of Asia Pacific’s most popular cities. We also investigate how old-time travel quotes are inspiring a new generation of millennial travellers, and take a closer look at the top destinations for the upcoming Lunar New Year holidays. We also uncover the beauty of Japan and gain deeper insight into how hotels are getting involved with their local communities. Finally, check out our collection of must-try hotels around the world, including Alila’s stunning debut property in Cambodia, Alila Villas Koh Russey. Enjoy the read! If you would like to catch up on any past editions of Travel Aggregator, simply head to https://attractions.fitruums.com/aggregator. Daryl Lee CEO of WebBeds Asia Pacific
BEN WOOD Managing Director, South East Asia Ben.Wood@jactravel.com VINCENT LEUNG Managing Director, Hong Kong, Philippines & Japan Vincent.Leung@fitruums.com JENNY FU General Manager, China Jenny.Fu@jactravel.com LINDA KIM General Manager, South Korea Linda.Kim@fitruums.com JOSEPH SHIH General Manager, Taiwan Joseph.Shih@fitruums.com ASHUTOSH DOGRA General Manager, India Ashutosh.Dogra@fitruums.com JOHN STUCCI President, Pacific John.Stucci@fitruums.com
@WebBedsAPAC
ABOUT TRAVEL AGGREGATOR Travel Aggregator is the monthly newsletter published in-house by WebBeds Asia Pacific. Created especially for our travel trade partners and clients, this informative newsletter will include the latest updates from WebBeds Asia Pacific, including our news and developments, plus exciting offers from our partners, a selection of the hottest hotel deals, and much more! If you’d like to be featured in the next issue of Travel Aggregator, please email Travel.Aggregator@ fitruums.com. Alternatively, for marketing partnerships with WebBeds Asia Pacific, please email marketing@fitruums.com.
2
JAN 2019
APAC Newsletter
WIN
Exclusive The Fullerton Postmaster Teddy Bears
Uncover Asia Pacific’s Hidden Gems
Top Escapes For The Lunar New Year
~ Page 5 - 15
Timeless Quotes That Inspire Travel
~ Page 18 - 23
~ Page 26 - 37
Sri Panwa Phuket. See more in 2019 Lookbook.
JUST THE RIGHT AMOUNT
of
WRONG
TM
Arrange the unpredictable / 00 1 702 698 7060 SALES@FITRUUMS.COM
F
Asia Pacific’s Hidden Gems, Recommended by WebBeds Travel in Asia Pacific is booming, but how much do guests really know about the region’s favourite destinations? Most travellers will have visited a city’s top tourist attractions, but to discover the heart and soul of the destination, it is essential to head off the tourist trail and experience the city as the locals do. Only people who live and work in a destination can truly know the best places to visit. This month, WebBeds has asked our local team of executives in Asia Pacific to reveal the best lesser-known local attractions in their home cities. So, whether you’re looking for an authentic restaurant, genuine shopping experiences or the coolest places to hang out, we’ve got the inside track! Here’s our selection of hidden gems in Asia Pacific, as recommended by WebBeds’ managers:
SEOUL
Seoul FAVOURITE BEAUTY PRODUCT Seoul is famous for its beauty products and people travel from all across Asia to purchase Korean cosmetics. I would recommend CMADECA Cream by Dongkook Recommended by: Linda Kim, WebBeds’ General Manager, South Korea
Pharmaceutical; it is really effective and keeps my skin moisturized all day. My mum uses it too! It can be found at the Lotte Department Store near Myeong-dong and Shinsegye Department Store near Namdaemun Market. I would also suggest Age 20’s Essence Foundation, which is available at The Shilla Duty Free Shop.
6
THE SHILLA SEOUL
WHERE TO STAY
The Shilla Seoul The Shilla Seoul is still arguably the city’s best hotel. Perfect for families, it has a beautiful outdoor pool, kids’ pool and a great breakfast with lots of variety. Shilla is a Korean brand and the hotel showcases local culture with its Sculpture Garden and ancient fortress wall. There is a Shilla Duty Free Shop right next door and the popular Dongdaemun Market is just 20 minutes away by public transport.
7
SYDNEY
Sydney FAVOURITE LOCAL BAR For guests who want to unwind and enjoy a tipple, I would suggest the Manly Wharf Hotel. Head to Circular Quay, next to the Sydney Opera House, and catch the local ferry to Recommended by: John Stucci, WebBeds’ President, Pacific
Manly. From here you can walk to Shelley Beach and stop at the Manly Wharf Hotel on the way back. You can sit on the deck and sip a crisp local beer, and even enjoy a great plate of fish and chips. Depending on the time of year, you might even catch a glimpse of the local penguins that roost under the pier.
8
B E S T W E S T E R N H AV E N G L E B E
WHERE TO STAY
Best Western Haven Glebe Best Western Haven Glebe is a boutique hotel located in the cosmopolitan suburb of Glebe, just five minutes’ drive from Sydney CBD and Darling Harbour. This makes it feel like a cosy retreat, but it is still well connected to the city via public transport. All 56 contemporary rooms feature king-sized Sealy beds, LCD TVs, balconies and free Wi-Fi, while the bathrooms offer L’Occitane products. Guests can also work out in the gym.
9
OSAKA
Osaka FAVOURITE ONSEN All visitors to Japan should experience an onsen. Located just outside Osaka, Arima Onsen is one of the oldest and most important spa towns in the country. The hot springs at Recommended by: Makoto Ochiai, WebBeds’ Business Development Manager, Japan
10
Arima Onsen have seven out of the nine natural components recognised for their curative effects. There are many bathing facilities in the town, some of which are open-air, and travellers can even enjoy a quick foot bath to rest their weary feet, free-of-charge.
C O U R T YA R D B Y M A R R I O T T S H I N - O S A K A S TA T I O N
WHERE TO STAY
Courtyard by Marriott Shin-Osaka Station Courtyard by Marriott Shin-Osaka Station is perfectly positioned next to the main railway hub for local and bullet trains. This puts the whole of Osaka and the entire Kansai region - including Kobe and Kyoto - within easy reach. Guests can relax in intuitively designed rooms, with great city views from the higher floors, and the Executive Lounge offers a range of additional services. The hotel’s teppanyaki restaurant is also a great place to dine and entertain.
11
HONG KONG
Hong Kong FAVOURITE YUM CHA/DIM SUM PLACE My favourite place to yum cha is Hung Kee Seafood Restaurant. Although the restaurant itself is famous for its seafood, the dim sum is a fantastic weekend lunch option. Recommended by: Vincent Leung, WebBeds’ Managing Director, Hong Kong, Philippines & Japan
Located in Sai Kung, Hung Kee is a typical no-frills Hong Kong restaurant. Guests are greeted by tanks of live seafood which are spectacular even by local standards! There is a wide selection of dim sum and you can choose to sit outdoors and soak up the amazing sea views.
12
EATON HK
WHERE TO STAY
Eaton HK Eaton HK is perfectly located in the authentic Jordon neighbourhood, in the heart of Kowloon. This gives guests easy access to the bustling bazaars of Chungking Mansions and Temple Street. The newlyrefurbished Eaton rooms are highly sustainable, with natural mattresses and organic bath products, plus high-tech amenities like USB ports and smart TVs. One of the main attractions is the onsite food hall, which has 11 trendy stalls and bars.
13
CHIANG MAI
Chiang Mai FAVOURITE PLACE TO SAMPLE LOCAL CUISINE Chiang Mai is an incredible place to live. The jungle-clad mountains of northern Thailand are my unofficial back yard and I love to explore the area by bike. Just 10 minutes’ ride Recommended by: Ben Wood, WebBeds’ Managing Director, Southeast Asia
from my house is Huay Tung Tao, where you can find some amazing local bamboo restaurants nestled along the banks of a river, serving local delicacies like “dancing shrimp” and steamed fish at very reasonable prices. It can also be reached by a downhill mountain bike ride from the top of Doi Suthep!
14
SIBSAN LUXURY HOTEL RIMPING
WHERE TO STAY
Sibsan Luxury Hotel Rimping Sibsan Luxury Hotel Rimping is a unique boutique hotel on the banks of the Ping River in Chiang Mai. Built in traditional Lanna style, it transports guests into an elegant bygone era. Quiet enough to be an oasis away from the city yet close enough to Chiang Mai to be convenient, Sibsan features just 32 beautifully-designed rooms with authentic dĂŠcor, plus a traditional Thai spa, a riverside coffee house and restaurant serving both local and international cuisine.
15
A L I L A V I L L A S K O H R U S S E Y, C A M B O D I A
16
A L I L A V I L L A S K O H R U S S E Y, C A M B O D I A
Alila Villas Koh Russey, Cambodia With its idyllic islands, turquoise seas and tropical flora, the Cambodian Riviera is one of the world’s most desirable emerging destinations. Now, Alila has made this enchanting archipelago even more attractive with the launch of Alila Villas Koh Russey, a luxurious new island resort that blends seamlessly into its stunning surroundings. Nestled on the jungle-clad island of Koh Russey, this exquisite resort features 50 pavilions and 13 villas ranging from a spacious 50 square metres to an expansive 560 square metres. All guests can unwind in sleek and stylish interiors, private terraces, rain showers and standalone bathtubs. Many units offer uninterrupted beach access and sea views, and all villas feature private pools. Guests can spend their days exploring this enticing environment with an array of activities, including island hopping, diving, water sports and cultural journeys. Alternatively, just relax and savour Alila’s luxurious facilities, including the soothing spa, yoga studio, gym and multi-zoned swimming pool. To experience an exotic, ecological escape where contemporary style meets classical Khmer charm, Alila Villas Koh Russey is a captivating new destination.
17
Lunar New Year Escapes in Asia Travelling abroad during Lunar New Year might mean leaving your loved ones or your reunion with the family, but it doesn’t mean you have to forgo the festivities. All across Asia there are diverse destinations that celebrate Lunar New Year in their own distinctive way, and you might just discover a fun new way to celebrate. So if you want to get away from it all this Lunar New Year, we’ve found some great alternative options for your Spring Festival escape.
YOKOHAMA
WHERE TO GO
Yokohama As an historic port city, Yokohama has a rich
lion dances, parades and of course, a countdown
multi-cultural ambience and a thriving Chinese
party. So it is little wonder that this is one of Asia’s
community. The city’s 150-year-old Chinatown
most popular Spring Festival destinations, attracting
district hosts two weeks of festivities during Lunar
revellers from all across Asia.
New Year, including a lantern festival, traditional
20
THE CAPITOL HOTEL TOKYU
WHERE TO STAY
The Capitol Hotel Tokyu Nestled in the heart of Tokyo, The Capitol Hotel
the elegance and style associated with classical
Tokyu is an enchanting oasis featuring 251
Japanese hospitality. When you’re not enjoying
wonderfully spacious rooms and suites, six F&B
the festivities in Yokohama, Tokyo’s main visitor
outlets (including an exquisite Chinese restaurant)
attractions are all on the hotel’s doorstep.
a spa and myriad other facilities, all infused with
21
BANGKOK
WHERE TO GO
Bangkok The Thai capital is a thrilling destination at any time
traditional restaurants and sizzling street food stalls.
of year, but it really comes alive during Lunar New
During Lunar New Year, which is a public holiday
Year. Bangkok has a large Chinese community
in Thailand, the whole area pulsates with vibrant
and the Chinatown district around Yaowarat Road
festive celebrations.
bustles with lively markets, Chinese temples,
22
SHANGHAI MANSION
WHERE TO STAY
Shanghai Mansion Shanghai Mansion is perfectly positioned for guests
restaurant which takes Chinese cookery back to its
who want to immerse themselves in Bangkok’s
roots. Shanghai Mansion shines during Lunar New
Chinese culture. This stylish boutique hotel features
Year, and the rest of this pulsating city - including
Chinese-inspired interiors, an oriental spa and
the Chao Praya River - is within easy reach.
authentic F&B outlets, including the Red Rose
23
DISCOVER THE WORLD’S FINEST HOTELS
Discover the World’s Finest Hotels The world is full of incredible places; breath-taking, jaw-dropping, awe-inspiring wonders that ignite the imagination and keep visitors coming back time and again. But the destination is only one part of the travel experience; for modern travellers, the stay is equally important. Across the globe, hoteliers are pushing the boundaries to deliver intuitive, innovative hospitality. From cutting-edge boutique hotels to iconic heritage landmarks, travellers now have an endless array of enticing places to stay. Celebrating world-class hospitality, WebBeds has created its 2019 Lookbook of hotels that deliver outstanding guest experiences and reflect the essence of their destination. View 2019 Hotel Lookbook HERE.
Bali
Amsterdam
HANGING GARDENS OF BALI
SIR ADAM
24
Bangkok
Dubai
Hong Kong
SIAM KEMPINSKI HOTEL BANGKOK
FIVE PALM JUMEIRAH MARCO POLO DUBAI HONGKONG HOTEL
Las Vegas
Maldives
Milan
THE COSMOPOLITAN OF LAS VEGAS
THE RESIDENCE MALDIVES
PALAZZO MATTEOTTI
DISCOVER THE WORLD’S FINEST HOTELS
Mui Ne
New York City
Penang
ANANTARA MUI NE RESORT
THE LANGHAM, NEW EASTERN & ORIENTAL YORK, FIFTH AVENUE HOTEL
Phuket
Seoul
Shanghai
SRI PANWA PHUKET
SIGNIEL SEOUL
THE MIDDLE HOUSE
Singapore
Sydney
Tokyo
THE OUTPOST HOTEL
FOUR SEASONS HOTEL SYDNEY
THE RITZ-CARLTON, TOKYO
Udaipur
Venice
Zurich
TAJ LAKE PALACE
GRAND HOTEL DEI DOGI
HOTEL SCHWEIZERHOF ZURICH
25
“Traveling—it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.” - I b n Ba t tu t a
How Timeless Quotes are Inspiring Millennial Travel Will your next adventure be inspired by an ancient Asian proverb or influenced by the words of a 19th Century French novelist? In the modern age of social media and internet memes, motivational travel quotes are being shared in cyberspace, encouraging a new generational of millennial explorers to pack their bags and see the world. Whether you aspire to “take only memories, leave only footprints” or “follow the road less travelled”, or “seek other states, other lives, other souls”, travel quotes have the power to capture the imagination. Certain quotes can even evoke the spirit of a particular place or experience. In this edition of Travel Aggregator, we’ll show how the words of writers, philosophers and explorers from the past still have the power to inspire travellers in the 21st Century.
CHRIST THE REDEEMER, RIO DE JANEIRO
“Once a year, go someplace you’ve never been before.” - Dal ai Lam a
Christ the Redeemer, Rio de Janeiro For many travellers, Rio is an attractive and appealing destination that remains tantalisingly out of reach. For Asians it can seem too far away, but Rio is perfect for visitors who are prepared to “go someplace they’ve never been before”. The landscape of Brazil’s second largest city is truly iconic, with its stunning waterfront, golden beaches and soaring peaks. Stroll along the Copacabana coast, take a cable car up Sugarloaf Mountain and visit the statue of Christ the Redeemer.
28
H I LT O N R I O D E J A N E I R O C O PA C A B A N A
WHERE TO STAY
Hilton Rio de Janeiro Copacabana Experience the ultimate Brazilian vacation at Hilton
spa, a restaurant and multiple bars, including
Rio de Janeiro Copacabana. Overlooking the beach
beachside service at the Copacabana waterfront.
and Atlantic Ocean, this stunning seafront property
The Rio Sul Shopping Mall is nearby and most
features two sparkling swimming pools, a sublime
rooms offer uninterrupted views of the ocean.
29
K A WA R A U B R I D G E B U N G Y, Q U E E N S T O W N
“Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all.” -Hele n Ke lle r
Kawarau Bridge Bungy, Queenstown New Zealand is the spiritual home of bungee jumping, and there is no better place to experience this “daring adventure” than Queenstown. Nestled in the mountains, this scenic South Island city is the outdoor adventure capital of the Southern Hemisphere and home to an array of death-defying leaps, including the third highest bungee platform in the world! This activity is certainly not for the faint-hearted, but it perfectly captures the thrill-seeking spirit of New Zealand.
30
CROWNE PLAZA QUEENSTOWN
WHERE TO STAY
Crowne Plaza Queenstown Crowne Plaza Queenstown is ideal for guests
the downtown attractions are also right on the
seeking an outdoor adventure. Nested on the
doorstep. Each room has its own private balcony
shores of Lake Wakatipu and overlooking The
or courtyard, and facilities include a gym and an
Remarkables mountain range, this modern hotel
excellent restaurant.
embraces the spectacular natural landscapes, while
31
THE GRAND CANYON, ARIZONA
“Travel makes one modest. You see what a tiny place you occupy in the world.” - G u s t ave F laube rt
The Grand Canyon, Arizona Some natural wonders cannot be described in words; they simply have to be seen to be believed. The Grand Canyon is one such place. It is so spectacularly vast and beautiful that it makes you take a step back and reconsider your place in the world. Carved by the Colorado River, this awe-inspiring canyon is 446km long, up to 29km wide and in parts more than 1.8km deep. It is also believed to be over five million years old. Visitors cannot help but feeling “modest” against nature’s achievements.
32
Y A VA P A I L O D G E
WHERE TO STAY
Yavapai Lodge Yavapai Lodge occupies a prime location within
remodelled main lodge featuring cosy seating
the Grand Canyon National Park. Less than 2km
with a fireplace and an outdoor patio. The hotel is
from the canyon’s South Rim, this is a great place
also close to the Grand Canyon Visitor Center and
to start your adventure. Guests can stay in style with
Geology Museum.
358 modern rooms, a restaurant, bar and a newly-
33
D E S E R T S A FA R I , D U B A I
“Better to see something once than hear it a thousand times.� - As i an Prove rb
Desert Safari, Dubai Dubai is becoming one of the world’s most impressive cities, with an array of manmade attractions that keep international visitors entertained throughout their stay. Just once however, why not take a break from the shopping malls and theme parks and head out to explore the wonders of the desert? A range of desert safaris are available, allowing guests to experience the rolling sand dunes by 4X4, ride a camel and even spend time at a Bedouin camp, with belly dancing and dinner under the stars.
34
PA L A C E D O W N T O W N
WHERE TO STAY
Palace Downtown The Palace Downtown hotel provides a luxurious
enjoy exceptional cuisine at Arabian, Asian and
base for your Arabian adventure. Perfectly
steakhouse restaurants, unwind at the spa and
positioned, this premium hotel is the centrepiece
spend chic evenings at FAI, the stylish
of The Old Town Island, close to the Dubai Mall and
nightlife venue.
Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building. Guests can
35
TA J M A HA L , A G R A
“Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer.” - Author U nknow n
Taj Mahal, Agra Certain landmarks in the world have such an emotional impact that they can affect one’s soul. The Taj Mahal has that power. This beautiful white marble mausoleum in Agra, Rajasthan, is perhaps the most romantic and heart-rending building in the world. Built in the 17th Century, it was Mughal emperor Shah Jahan’s dedication to his late wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died in childbirth. A visit to this exquisite UNESCO World Heritage site will certainly “make you feel richer”.
36
R A D I S S O N B LU A G R A TA J E A S T G AT E
WHERE TO STAY
Radisson Blu Agra Taj East Gate Radisson Blu Agra Taj East Gate is located within
in the refreshing rooftop infinity pool, which
walking distance of the Taj Mahal and close to
overlooks the Taj Mahal, enjoy a rejuvenating
the city’s other architectural attractions, including
spa treatment or dine in a choice of Indian and
the impressive Agra Fort. When guests are not
international restaurants.
exploring the local wonders, they can take a dip
37
C S R I N F O C U S AT T H E F U L L E RT O N H O T E L S I N G A P O R E
38
C S R I N F O C U S AT T H E F U L L E RT O N H O T E L S I N G A P O R E
CSR in Focus at The Fullerton Hotel Singapore In the hospitality industry,
hospitality and the creative arts,
corporate social responsibility
equipping them with the skills
(CSR) has evolved from being a
needed to embark on successful
token consideration to becoming
careers in future.
one of the core pillars of a hotel’s operations.
Initially, 26 youths between the ages of 11 and 16 joined The
For a hotel to succeed, it needs
Fullerton Academy, where they
to develop deep and lasting
will be trained and mentored
bonds with its destination. By
by hospitality professionals. This
creating community outreach
will not only help to improve
programmes, helping to
their own future prospects; it has
preserve the local environment,
the potential to raise the living
and providing training and
standards of their entire families
employment opportunities for
and the wider community.
local people, hotels can create
Meanwhile, The Fullerton Hotel
mutually beneficial relationships
Singapore could potentially
that help to ensure a bright
identify exceptional young talents
future for the entire community.
who otherwise would not have had the chance to shine.
One property that has successfully embraced the
The Fullerton Hotel Singapore
concept of CSR is The Fullerton
continues to set high standards
Hotel Singapore. While it is
for others to follow. Positioned
already a multi-award-winning
the mouth of the Singapore River,
hotel and an officially recognised
this impressive hotel was the
“National Monument” of
largest building in the city at the
Singapore, The Fullerton remains
time of its construction in 1928.
One of ten exclusive
committed to helping local
Ninety years later, it remains an
Fullerton bears, when you
people.
iconic landmark of Singapore,
enter a simple quiz about
featuring 400 luxurious rooms
The Fullerton Hotel
WIN
Earlier this year, the hotel
and suites, five exquisite F&B
Singapore and this CSR
launched The Fullerton Academy
outlets including a rooftop bar,
initiative! The online quiz
in partnership with REACH
an outdoor infinity pool, The
Community Services. This new
Fullerton Spa, a fitness centre and
programme is designed to
a boutique, plus The Fullerton
provide young people from
Heritage Gallery which showcases
low income families with
the hotel’s rich history.
can be discovered at https:// attractions.fitruums.com/ blog/fullerton-academy. Good luck!
apprenticeships in the areas of
39
F I T R E WA R D S
40
F I T R E WA R D S
THE NEW FIT REWARDS MEMBERSHIP More points, more rewards. We are always looking for ways to make your booking with us more rewarding. That’s why we are introducing the new FIT Rewards membership tier, where you can earn points faster and enjoy more exclusive rewards. From 1st January 2019 onwards, all your earned FIT Points will be accumulated to help you unlock new membership status and advance to the next level.
Membership status
FIT Points earned during calendar year
Benefits
Basic
0 – 29,999 FIT Points
1x FIT Points on all bookings
Silver
30,000 – 49,999 FIT Points
1.2x FIT Points on all new bookings
Gold
50,000 – 99,999 FIT Points
1.5x FIT Points on all new bookings + unlock limited edition items
Platinum
100,000 FIT Points and above
2x FIT Points on all new bookings + unlock limited edition items
Become a member now at https://rewards.fitruums.com.
41
E X P E R I E N C E T H E B E AU T Y O F J A PA N
Experience the Beauty of Japan Tokyo is a fascinating city that seamlessly blends cutting-edge technology with classical charm. For visitors, this vast metropolis offers an endless array of attractions and activities. Whether guests are seeking a glimpse of ancient Edo or a vision of the future, it is now possible to book a range of experiential tours that reflect the contrasting cultures of Tokyo.
Learn the Secrets of Sushi
Experience a Robot Restaurant
Learn about the history of Japan’s most famous Japanese dish and discover how to create your own authentic sushi by attending a private class in a traditional ryotei (classical Japanese restaurant) in Ginza.
Japan is famous for being a technologically advanced country, and naturally this cutting-edge culture has moved into the restaurant industry. Guests will be amazed by a robot restaurant, which includes an unforgettable live robot dance performance!
Discover Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi
Get in the Ring with a Sumo Wrestler
This day trip allows guests to take a break from Tokyo and experience Japan’s tallest mountain and Lake Kawaguchi, admiring the breath-taking views from 2,300 metres above sea-level. The one-day bus tour from Tokyo also includes a stop at a ninja village!
Sumo is an ancient form of wrestling and the worldfamous national sport of Japan. This unique tour allows guests to experience the daily routine of a sumo wrestler, learn the sport’s rules and even head into the ring for a bout with a real-life wrestler!
Book any of these experiential tours via the FIT Ruums Attractions site or email attractions@fitruums.com for more information. 42
K A N S A I A R E A PA S S
Discover the Wonders of Kansai From the bustling streets of Osaka to the ancient wonders of Kyoto, the Kansai Region perfectly showcases the contrasting faces of Japan. The country’s second largest metropolis, Osaka is a fast-paced business and entertainment hub, illuminated by neon signs, while the ancient Japanese capitals of Nara and Kyoto provide serene and spiritual contrasts to modern life, with many exquisite UNESCO World Heritage sites. Alternatively, Wakayama features wonderful onsen spots. The Kansai Region is accessible via the JR Kansai Area Pass, which offers unlimited travel within the designated area.
Get unlimited rides in the Kansai Area: • Osaka
• Nara
• Shiga
• Kyoto
• Himeji
• Tsuruga
• Kobe
• Wakayama
• Iga-Ueno
Inclusive Of: • Non-reserved seats on Kansai-Airport Express “HARUKA”
Traveller’s Price*
• Special Rapid Services, Rapid Services, and local trains on JR-West Conventional lines • Unlimited use of local JR buses between Kyoto Station, Takao and Shuzan. • Free use of rental bicycles at designated Ekirin Kun outlets within the covered area.
Please visit https://www.fitruums.com/en/rail/jr-west for full details or email rail@fitruums.com for bookings and enquires. *Sold outside of Japan only
43