Jewels of Japan and China 15 Days
From $2999 W/Air
Code: NHFJJC15
Osaka - Nara - Kyoto - Nagoya - Hakone - Mount Fuji - Tokyo - Shanghai - Suzhou - Hangzhou - Wuxi
Immerse yourself in the ancient and modern cultures of Japan and China. It takes you to the hidden treasures places with a deep insight of the culture and rich history of both countries. Currently Japan is a symbol of the exotic, the unknown and the immeasurable and exudes a sense of complete difference that draws travelers to its fascinating and volcanic shores. A wealth of World Heritage shrines, temples and gardens as well as modern Japan with its ultra-efficient transport system and tall skyscrapers await discovery on this introductory tour. Then explore Shanghai, a booming megalopolis mixing East and West, ancient and modern. The 144-hour visa-free transit policy makes Shanghai a more convenient destination. From Shanghai to Suzhou, Hangzhou and Wuxi, this VISA-FREE tour covers modern landmark buildings, classic gardens, ancient water towns and many other highlights in east China.
Day 1: Canada -Shanghai
Board an overnight flight to Osaka via Shanghai.
Day 2: Shanghai
Upon arrival, you will be greeted by your tour guide and transferred to the 5-star hotel. You may enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Day 3: Shanghai- Osaka
Upon arrival at Osaka Airport, you will meet our representative with name board at the airport exit. We will assist you to board an airport shuttle and then transferred to your hotel on your own. After hotel check-in, the rest of the day is at leisure on your own.
Day 4: Osaka -Nara- Osaka (B)
This morning, you will move to Nara, now known as Nara remains full of iconic sites. Then see Todai-ji Temple, one of Japan"s most famous and historically significant temples, constructed in the 8th century. In its huge precincts are various national treasures of Japan. Step foot in the Daibutsuden (Great Buddha Hall), housing the world’s largest bronze statue of the Buddha Vairocana. Wander through Nara Park, where over 1,200 wild sika deer roam free, before travelling to Osaka. Then enjoy visiting Osaka Castle , which played a major role in the unification of Japan during the Azuchi-Momoyama period in the sixteenth century, before being dropped off at Dōtonbori , which exemplifies Osaka’s vibrant food culture.
Day 5: Osaka (B)
Spend today free at your own leisure. You may join the optional Kansai Culture Tour (US$169). First visit Kiyomizu Temple, also known as the Pure Water Temple, is one of more famous temples in Japan. One of the things that stands out is the wooden stage in the main hall that is 13 meters above the hill. During the spring period, this will give you an amazing view of the cherry blossom. Kiyomizu Temple is on the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites. Then visit one of the most sacred and impressive destinations –Fushimi Inari-Taisha Shrine and walk through the famous vermilion Torii Gates, where you take the most Japanese photo during the tour. Lunch will be included at a local Japanese restaurant. Next, visit the Gion District and see the beauty of Maikos in kimono. With only a few Geishas remaining, Gion is one of the few places you might catch a glimpse of these elusive figures. You may also choose the optional Kimono Rental (US$50) and explore great photo opportunities along the ancient street in Japan’s beautiful national dress. Then return to your comfortable vehicle for the relaxing journey back to your hotel. The rest of day is free at leisure on your own.
Day 6: Osaka-Kyoto-Nagoya (B)
This morning, Experience a true modern marvel by riding the Shinkansen (bullet Train) to Kyoto Station. Kyoto was Japan’s capital and the emperor’s residence from 794 until 1868. Countless temples, shrines and other historically priceless structures survive in the city today. Enjoy a moment of quiet reflection at the vibrant Heian Shrine then head to absorb the sacred ambience of Kinkaku-ji Temple, World Cultural Heritage featuring a shining golden pavilion and a pond-centered garden. Visit the shining Kinkaku (Golden Pavilion) with two floors covered entirely in thin layers of pure gold and detailed architecture incorporating three distinct styles of Shinden, Samurai, and Zen. Enjoy a sweeping view of the entire city of Kyoto from its lofty terrace and grand walkways that meander through the Higashiwama mountain’s foothills. Experience the Japanese special Tea ceremony, It is a choreographic ritual of preparing and serving Japanese green tea, called Matcha. Travel to Nagoya to visit Toyota Commemorative Museumof Industry and Technology. Here you will learn about the history of Toyota as a textile machinery manufacturer and how it became a successful mass exporter and manufacturer of automotive technology, including robots.
Day 7: Nagoya - Hakone - Mt. Fuji (B,D)
Today, visit Oshino Hakkai. Known as the springs of Mount Fuji, the eight ponds are fed by melting snow filtering down from the slopes of nearby Mount Fuji, through porous layers of lava, resulting in very clear spring water that is revered by locals. Enjoy the picturesque view of Mount Fuji in the distance on board a Cruise on Lake Ashi, a crater lake famous for its views of the famous peak. Afterwards, visit Gotemba Peace Park to capture a breathtaking view of Mount Fuji, and Hakone Shrine. Lunch will be on your own along one of the many rest stops or service areas on the highways where you can enjoy an abundance of unique eats and snacks that will surprise you. Finish the day with a true cultural experience in our hot spring hotel. Dress in Yukata robes and enjoy a traditional Dinner.
Day 8: Mount Fuji - Tokyo (B)
Visit Meiji Shrine in the morning, dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his consort, Empress Shoken. Later, stroll through the Asakusa Kannon Temple, one of Tokyo’s most colorful and popular temples. Then walk along the famous 820-ft long Nakamise shopping street where you can explore the lines of stalls selling different Japanese-styled goods and souvenirs. Your last stop today is Tokyo Metro to enjoy a panoramic view of enormous Tokyo city. In the evening, experience Japanese tradition & cuisine by enjoying the optional Japanese Kaiseki Dinner (min 4pax, US$90). Kaiseki is a traditional multi-course Japanese dinner which balances the taste, texture, appearance, and colors of food. Only fresh seasonal ingredients are used and are prepared in ways that aim to enhance their flavor. Dishes are also beautifully arranged and garnished.
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Day 9: Tokyo (B)
Spend today free at your leisure. Enjoy a free day to explore and enjoy bustling Tokyo at your leisure. Perhaps discover Japanese history and art at a museum, or indulge in some retail therapy at Tokyo's cutting edge stores - the choice is yours. Alternatively, you may join our optional day trip to Kamakura and Yokohama.(min 10 pax US$159). Explore two of Japan's most captivating cities on a full-day Kamakura and Yokohama trip from Tokyo. After pickup from your Tokyo hotel, travel southwest by coach to Kamakura, a picturesque seaside city nestled in forested hills on Sagami Bay renowned for its Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines and rich history. Next, continue to Yokohama, Japan's second largest city. See the Red Brick Warehouse, where early-20th century custom buildings now house stylish shops, and stroll in waterside Yamashita Park.
Day 10:Tokyo to Shanghai-Suzhou (B)
Today, take the hotel shuttle to the airport to board your flight to Shanghai. Upon arrival at Shanghai airport, transfer directly to Suzhou by bus. It is only about a one hour drive.
Day 11 Suzhou / Wuxi (B,L)
This morning, visit the Lingering Garden, one of the classical garden masterpieces on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Suzhou is known as the “Venice of the East” as a large part of the city is covered in water. After lunch, you may take an optional cruise along the Grand Canal for a glimpse of the local life and China’s golden waterway in its heyday (US$30). Then, visit a Silk Spinning Mill to learn how silk is created from mulberry-munching silkworms to produce the nest thread and cloth. You will be transferred to Wuxi hotel this afternoon.
Day 12 Wuxi - Hangzhou (B, L)
This morning, visit the Lingering Garden, one of the classical garden masterpieces on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Suzhou is known as the “Venice of the East” as a large part of the city is covered in water. After lunch, you may take an optional cruise along the Grand Canal for a glimpse of the local life and China’s golden waterway in its heyday (US$30). Then, visit a Silk Spinning Mill to learn how silk is created from mulberry-munching silkworms to produce the nest thread and cloth. You will be transferred to Wuxi hotel this afternoon.
Day 13 Hangzhou- Shanghai (B, L)
In the morning, take a boat ride on the West Lake, known for its scenic beauty that blends naturally with many famous historical and cultural sights. Then experience an oriental tea-tasting at the Dragon Well Tea Plantation. After lunch, travel to Shanghai, the vibrant metropolis and commercial center of China. Followed by a walk along the famous Bund, a mile-long stretch along the Huangpu River. It is the best place to capture the western influences of the old days. This evening, you may take the optional Huangpu River Night Cruise(US$50) to get a glimpse of the dazzling and charming night view of Shanghai.
Day 14 Shanghai (B, L)
Today, visit the Shanghai Museum and indulge in ancient Chinese art, furniture, and jade. Visit Shanghai Old City God Temple area, a busy shopping centre where you may find souvenirs and delicious local food. Enjoy some free time in the afternoon. In the evening, attend a thrilling optional Chinese acrobatic show “ERA – The Intersection of Time” at your own expense (US$60).
Day 15 Shanghai-Canada (B)
Your journey is over all too soon. Fly back home and arrive home on the same day as you leave China
Departure Dates | Price (double occupancy)CAD P,P International flight included |
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---|---|---|---|
Return Date | Land Only | Package Price | |
2020/04/07 | 2020/04/20 | N/A | Sold Out |
2020/04/14 | 2020/04/28 | N/A | Sold Out |
2020/05/05 | 2020/05/19 | N/A | Sold Out |
2020/10/08 | 2020/10/22 | N/A | CAD$3499 |
2020/10/13 | 2020/10/27 | N/A | CAD$3299 |
2020/10/20 | 2020/11/03 | N/A | CAD$3299 |
2020/11/03 | 2020/11/17 | N/A | CAD$3499 |
2020/11/10 | 2020/11/24 | N/A | CAD$3499 |
2020/11/24 | 2020/12/08 | N/A | CAD$2999 |
Single Supplements | +CAD$999 |
SuZhouPan Pacific Hotel 5*
https://www.panpacific.com/en.html
259 Xinshi Rd, Gusu, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China, 215007
Tel: 0086 512 6510 3388
kyotoKansai Airport Washington Hotel
http://kansai-ap.washington-hotels.jp/
https://www.solarehotels.com/en/hotel/tokai/loisir-toyohashi/
BeiJingKimiyoshi Hot Spring Hotel
406-0024 Yamanashi, Fuefuki, Isawa-cho 1607-27, Japan
TEL.055-262-3757 / FAX.055-262-3748
kyotoShinjuku Washington Hotel
http://shinjuku.washington-hotels.jp/
http://www.swiss-belhotel.com/en-gb/swiss-belhotel-liyuan-wuxi
No.909 Yinxiu Road, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
Tel: 0086 180 6828 8005
HangZhouGrand Metropark Hotel Hangzhou 5*
http://grandmetroparkhangzhou.com/
2 Pinghai Rd, Shangcheng, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China, 310006
Tel: 0086 571 8708 8088
ShangHaiShanghai Theme Park Wassim Hotel
Address: 7099 Chuanzhou Hwy, Pudong Xinqu, Shanghai Shi, China, 201100
Phone: +86 189 1806 9861
Kansai Culture Tour (US$169 min10 pax).
First visit Kiyomizu Temple, also known as the Pure Water Temple, is one of more famous temples in Japan. One of the things that stands out is the wooden stage in the main hall that is 13 meters above the hill. During the spring period, this will give you an amazing view of the cherry blossom. Kiyomizu Temple is on the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites. Then visit one of the most sacred and impressive destinations –Fushimi Inari-Taisha Shrine and walk through the famous vermilion Torii Gates, where you take the most Japanese photo during the tour. Lunch will be included at a local Japanese restaurant. Next, visit the Gion District and see the beauty of Maikos in kimono. With only a few Geishas remaining, Gion is one of the few places you might catch a glimpse of these elusive figures. You may also choose the optional Kimono Rental (US$50) and explore great photo opportunities along the ancient street in Japan’s beautiful national dress. Then return to your comfortable vehicle for the relaxing journey back to your hotel. The rest of day is free at leisure on your own.
Japanese Kaiseki Dinner (min 4pax, US$90).
Kaiseki is a traditional multi-course Japanese dinner which balances the taste, texture, appearance, and colors of food. Only fresh seasonal ingredients are used and are prepared in ways that aim to enhance their flavor. Dishes are also beautifully arranged and garnished.
Optional day trip to Kamakura and Yokohama.(min 10 pax US$159).
Explore two of Japan's most captivating cities on a full-day Kamakura and Yokohama trip from Tokyo. After pickup from your Tokyo hotel, travel southwest by coach to Kamakura, a picturesque seaside city nestled in forested hills on Sagami Bay renowned for its Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines and rich history. Next, continue to Yokohama, Japan's second largest city. See the Red Brick Warehouse, where early-20th century custom buildings now house stylish shops, and stroll in waterside Yamashita Park.
Optional programs are subject to availability and must be booked more than 1 month before departure.
The electrical current is 220V in Korea, 100V in Japan. Plugs and Outlets come in a variety of shapes. You are advised to bring along adapters and converters for your U.S. purchased appliances. Clients can borrow adapters and converters from Housekeeping at most hotels. Hair dryer and iron are readily available. Simply contact hotel housekeeping when you need them.
Japan weather throughout the four main islands that make up Japan is generally temperate, with four distinct seasons. The weather can get very hot during the summer months. June, July and August are hot and humid and after June the country experiences its wettest months. In the south winters are cool but sunny, but as one move further north temperatures drop and snow falls. The island of Hokkaido in the far north of Japan is bitterly cold in the winter, with snow guaranteed.
Tokyo has four distinct seasons, similar to New York. The summer months (June, July and August) are hot and sticky while winter can be freezing. Tokyo is best visited in spring or autumn.
Korea The climate in Korea is temperate with four very distinct seasons. Summers are very hot and humid, while in winter temperatures plummet to below freezing. Autumn and spring are the most comfortable seasons to visit South Korea. Most of the rain falls in summer during a monsoon season known as 'jangma'.
Seoul is classed as having a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but temperature differences between the hottest part of summer and the depths of winter are extreme. In summer the influence of the North Pacific high-pressure system brings hot, humid weather with temperatures soaring as high as 95°F (35°C) on occasion. In winter the city is topographically influenced by expanding Siberian high-pressure zones and prevailing west winds, temperatures dropping as low as 7°F (-13.7°C). The bitterly cold days tend to come in three-day cycles regulated by rising and falling pressure systems, however, bringing some relief. The most pleasant seasons in the city are spring and autumn, when azure blue skies and comfortable temperatures are a sure bet. The city experiences heavy rainfall, but most of it falls in the summer monsoon period between June and September.
Unless noted, Gratuities are usually not included in your tour cost. They are customary, and their purpose is to encourage and reward quality service. Our tour guides, drivers, hotel porters do their utmost to make the trip smooth and pleasant. Gratuities are a way of showing your appreciation and also constitute a large part of their monthly income.
If you take prescription medication, be sure to bring enough to last the entire trip. Always carry medications in the original prescription container when traveling. Keep the medications with you and do not pack them in checked baggage.
Long-term travel overseas might cause tourists to develop stomach upset; a change in water, food, sleep habits and/or climate may all cause discomfort. Bring anti-diarrhea medications such as Imodium and Lomotil just in case.
Vaccinations are not mandatory for travel to with the exception of anyone traveling from or via an infected area.
For the latest overseas travel health information, please contact Foreign Affairs Canada by visiting their website for more information.
Tap water is considered safe to drink in Japan and Korea. Bottled purified water and soft drinks are easily obtained at reasonable prices either in hotel or in grocery markets. Nexus Holidays provides one bottle of pure water for free to each group travelers every day. You will also find that your hotels offer boiled water to your room daily; with this boiled water you can safely make your own tea or drink directly. This is the similar case while you travel to other Southeast Asia countries.
Most of meals are included per itinerary. Breakfasts included on your tour are familiar American Breakfasts to give you a good start to the day. Lunches and Dinners are usually served in set menu family style and feature a variety of regional specialties. One beverage of your choice (beer, pure or mineral water and soda) is included per person per meal at no additional charge; Tea is usually complimentary.
Shopping is always a part of the travel experience. Asia is known as bargain shoppers' paradise, offering a marvelous selection of arts and crafts such as jade, silk, rugs, cloisonné, ceramics, antique, painting, furniture and more. Purchasing an item in the area where it is "noted for" has proven to be the best value. Your National Tour Guide and Local Tour Guides will be glad to assist you with detailed shopping orientation. However, your tour guides might not be an expert on gemstones, porcelain, jade, paintings, etc., so if you intend to purchase items of this nature, please do some research before departing and have an idea of what you are looking for as well as the price you are prepared to pay. In addition, please carefully check the quality of the products, and always ask for a receipt with product descriptions.
When shopping it is wise to use credit card for large purchases. Retain all receipts. Purchase insurance for items that you have shipped. A supply of one dollar bills is very handy when shopping with street vendors. Always keep in mind that a purchase is between the buyer and the seller. Nexus Holidays and its staff are not involved in and are not responsible for any purchases you make during the trip, whether that merchant is part of the scheduled itinerary or not. It is also suggest learning what are Restricted and Prohibited by Canadian Border Services Agency.
Major Airline Contacts | |||||
Air China | N. America | 800-882-8122 | China Eastern | N. America | 888-358-1582 |
Beijing | 86-10-59281588 | Beijing | 021-95530 | ||
Seoul | 82-2-7746886 | Seoul | 82-2-518-0330 | ||
Osaka | 81-724-565128 | Osaka | 81-066448-5161 | ||
Tokyo | 81-3-64280311 | Tokyo | 81-033506-1166 | ||
China Southern | N. America | 888-338-8988 | United Airline | N. America | 800-864-8331 |
Guangzhou | 020-95539 | Seoul | 82-2-751-0300 | ||
Seoul | 82-2-775-9070 | Osaka | 81-3-6732-5011 | ||
Osaka | 81-6-64486655 | Tokyo | 81-3-6732-5011 | ||
Tokyo | 81-3-51578011 | ||||
Cathay Pacific | N. America | 800-268-8888 | Korean Airline | N. America | 800-438-5000 |
Hong Kong | 852 2747 3333 | Seoul | 1588-2001 | ||
Seoul | 82 1644-8003 | Osaka | 0088-21-2001 | ||
Osaka | 0120-46-3838 | Tokyo | 0088-21-2001 | ||
Tokyo | 0120-46-3838 | ||||
Air Canada | N. America | 800-268-8888 | Japan Airline | N. America | 800-525-3663 |
Seoul | 82-2-3788-0100 | Seoul | 82-02-757-1711 | ||
Osaka | 0570 014 787 | Osaka | 0570-025-121 | ||
Tokyo | 0570 014 787 | Tokyo | 0570-025-121 | ||
All Nippon Air | N. America | 800-235-9262 | Asiana Airline | N. America | 800-438-5000 |
Seoul | 02-2096-5500 | Seoul | 82-2-2669-8000 | ||
Osaka | 03-6741-1120 | Osaka | 81-6-6282-1888 | ||
Tokyo | 06-7637-6679 | Tokyo | |||
Canadian Embassy/Consulate | ||
Seoul | 82-2-3783-6000 | 21, Jeongdong-gil (Jeong-dong), Jung-gu Seoul, 100 - 120 |
Tokyo | 03-5412-6200 |
7-3-38 Akasaka, Minato-ku Tokyo 107-8503, Japan |
Osaka | 06-6681-0250 |
1-8-19 Hirabayashi Minami, Suminoe-ku Osaka, 559-8550, Japan |