Japan Encompassed

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2020 DELUXE TOURING

Take a closer look at Evergreen Cruises & Tours – A World of Discovery Welcome to the Evergreen Experience.........................................................1 Discover Japan..............................................................................................2 You’re Invited................................................................................................4 Earlybird Savings.....................................................................................6 Explorer Loyalty Program.......................................................................7

Discover Japan 14 Day Japan Encompassed (EJTO) NEW .................................................8

A World of Discovery Terms and Conditions.................................................................................10 facebook.com/EvergreenToursAustralia youtube.com/evergreentours1

Welcome Evergreen Cruises & Tours’ Spectacular Japan

Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kyoto

We invite you to join us on a journey to the extraordinary destination of Japan, a land where ancient traditions and a wealth of history blend seamlessly with the ultra-modern.

Japan is a unique and vibrant land with friendly people, exquisite food, electric cities, deep culture and jaw dropping landscapes. Few countries have developed with such fierce independence, maintaining a pure and rich culture that is unsurpassed, offering the ultimate Asia travel experience.

carefully plan, arrange and coordinate every aspect of your holiday. Our itineraries are cleverly designed with the appropriate balance of inclusions, mustsee sights, cultural interactions, local insights, culinary delights and free time, all planned to unlock the richness and vibrancy of Japan.

Established for 40 years, Evergreen are experts in touring and cruising and have developed handcrafted itineraries which include all the essentials for a seamless touring experience as well as uncovering some of Japan’s best kept secrets. This ensures that not only are your deluxe hotels, must-see attractions, local experiences, specialist Tour Directors, most meals and all transport included, but there are also no hidden costs such

Evergreen has an excellent reputation for quality, value and professional

As part of the Scenic Group, we use the organisation’s purchasing power and impeccable reputation to ensure we pass on the best value and service to you, and in this brochure, you will find the very best and most affordable touring program. We look forward to welcoming you to the diverse and natural beauty of Japan.

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celebrating

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When you choose to travel with Evergreen Cruises & Tours, you’ll not only experience the highlights of this incredible destination, but also meet the people and uncover the hidden wonders that makes Japan so special.

service. From start to finish, we

as hotel porterage, taxes, tips and gratuities.

Travel Masters & The Travel Studio

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Discover Japan A rich and enchanting land

Japan, known as the “Land of the rising sun� is one of the most complete and care free Asian destinations that exists.

The rich culture steeped in centuries of tradition combines with the authentic architecture and fairy tale landscapes leaving an indelible impression.

One of the most striking and captivating things about Japan is the incredible contrast that exists throughout the land. Modern and bustling cities filled with neon lights capture your attention and sit in stark contrast to the serene landscapes and villages beyond, and this is just one of the reasons that Japan is such an enchanting place to explore.

Left: Thatched houses of Shirakawa-go Top right: Enjoy a traditional Japanese meal Bottom right: Bustling Shibuya Crossing, Tokyo

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Centuries of tradition have sculpted the people and culture into a unique

For reservations and enquiries please call Travel Masters on: (07)55 960 511 or The Travel Studio on: (07)55 72 72 72

fabric. The humility and deep respect of these traditions is evident in every aspect of life and is one of the unique and endearing aspects of travel through Japan.

As you make your way throughout the land, stories of Emperors, Shoguns and Samurai keep you on the edge of your seat. Battles and warriors, success and triumph, innovation and isolation punctuate the fascinating story of this multi-faceted country. An epic story unfolds and complements beautiful landscapes, quaint villages and innovative cities.

The cities of Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima and Osaka personify this eclectic Japanese blend. Ultra-modern

skyscrapers sit side by side with ancient temples. In the busy streets you’ll find an astounding mix of people from high end business people to youths dressed in wild outfits exemplifying their unique sense of fashion.

We ensure you get a taste of the variety on offer with visits to both modern and heritage sights. Visit the modern Roppongi Hills Observation Deck in Tokyo or Umeda Sky Building in Osaka.

Then see iconic and traditional places such as Asakusa, housing Tokyo’s oldest temple, Shirakawa-go UNESCO World Heritage Village, Nijo Castle in Kyoto and the poignant sights of Peace Memorial Park and Miyajima Island with the

Japan’s countryside is breathtaking and travelling between cities gives you the chance to experience some of the spectacular scenery and quaint villages.

You cannot go past the jewel in the crown, Mount Fuji. This famous snowcapped volcano sits just west of Hakone, and we spend the day here to give you good opportunities to see this beauty.

At Evergreen, we have hand crafted our Japan itinerary to create the right balance of must see sights and immersive local experiences. We visit all the iconic cities as well as some more traditional gems. Travelling with Evergreen through Japan is sure to captivate and leave you filled with wonder.

floating Torii Gate in Hiroshima.

Travel Masters & The Travel Studio

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You’re Invited Local experiences to enhance your journey

Join us on a journey into the Japan seldom seen by visitors. Evergreen ensures we include unique and exclusive local experiences where our guests are welcomed into the lives of real people.

You’ll come home with a knowledge of Japan far deeper than a museum or historic landmark alone can offer.

In Kyoto, visit the Tenryuji temple where we are invited to have lunch in the temple. Tenryuji is the largest and most impressive temple in the Arashiyama district of Kyoto. Founded in 1339, the temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Top left: Partake in an authentic Japanese tea ceremony

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In addition to its temple buildings, it is

Bottom left: Learn to make sarubobo dolls

renowned for beautiful gardens with

Right: Enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner with a maiko

walking paths winding throughout.

For reservations and enquiries please call Travel Masters on: (07)55 960 511 or The Travel Studio on: (07)55 72 72 72

In Takayama, visit Hida Folk Village and learn how to make traditional sarubobo dolls. Hida Folk Village is an open-air museum exhibiting over 30 traditional houses from the mountainous region around Takayama. They were moved here from nearby villages and create a quaint village-like atmosphere. Join a local expert and learn the craft of making the cute sarubobo dolls that will leave you with the perfect souvenir to take home.

In Kyoto, you will have the honour of taking part in a traditional Japanese dinner with a maiko (apprentice Geisha).

Geisha’s have entertained the elite in Kyoto for centuries. They undergo strict training in the traditional Japanese arts such as music, song and dance to

ensure they are the perfect dining hosts. Being professional entertainers, geisha’s make sure that the meal is not only steeped in tradition but is fun and fascinating.

In Hakone, experience a traditional but luxurious Japanese Ryokan. A ryokan is a type of local Japanese inn that has existed since the eighth century.

You’re Invited experiences allow you to connect with real people and participate in special events so that you can discover a hidden side of the destination. Evergreen has hand-picked experiences that will enrich your time and deepen your understanding of the places you visit. Learn what it’s like to be a real Japanese person with our exclusive program of extra special events.

Ten-yu ryokan is a sanctuary located in the mountains of Hakone where you can relax and enjoy authentic Japanese hospitality mixed with nature. Sleeping in a Japanese style room with futons laid out on tatami mats, and having access to a private open air onsen, this is a wonderful Japanese experience.

Travel Masters & The Travel Studio

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Earlybird Savings Earlybird Offers: Best 2020 Deals.

Book by 31st July 2019 or until sold out*.

Best Remaining Offers: From 1st August 2019 onwards.

Contact Travel Masters or The Travel Studio for more details. *For full Terms & Conditions please contact Travel Masters or The Travel Studio

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For reservations and enquiries please call Travel Masters on: (07)55 960 511 or The Travel Studio on: (07)55 72 72 72

2 for 1 Airfare*

Book and deposit for two people on an Evergreen holiday and receive ONE RETURN AIRFARE WITH TAXES INCLUDED, when another return airfare is booked on the same flights*.

OR Dollar Discounts*

SAVE $550 PER PERSON when you book and deposit on an Evergreen holiday. Dollar discounts are not available if you choose a special airfare offer.

OR Solo Travellers*

Book and deposit on an Evergreen holiday plus flights and receive a HALF PRICE RETURN AIRFARE WITH TAXES INCLUDED*.

AND

Early Payment Discount*

Maximise your savings by combining our Early Payment Discount with the above offers. Book and pay in full by the required date and SAVE UP TO $800 per couple*.

Book and pay in full and save 6-8 months in advance $150 per person 9-11 months in advance $250 per person Over 12 months in advance $400 per person

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Kinkakuji Golden Pavilion, Kyoto

14 Day

Japan Encompassed Day 1: Tokyo (D) Konnichiwa! Welcome to Tokyo, the capital of Japan. Tokyo is an eclectic blend of innovative modern fused with ancient and traditional.

Shimmering glass skyscrapers sit side by side with centuries old temples and shrines, and the busy streets are alive with pulsing Tokyo life. On arrival at the airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel^. This evening, meet your Tour Director for a tour briefing and welcome dinner.

Three Night Stay: Keio Plaza Hotel.

Day 2: Tokyo Sightseeing (FB) Today you will get to know why Tokyo is a famous city of contrasts. Begin your exploration of Tokyo with a visit to the famous Meiji Shrine, dedicated to the spirits of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Next, be taken to the 238m tall Roppongi Hills Observation Deck for spectacular views of the city. Head across town to Asakusa, Tokyo’s old town where you can soak up the atmosphere of what Tokyo must have been like hundreds of years ago. Visit Sensoji, Tokyo’s oldest temple and stroll through the surrounding streets. Discover More: Take a traditional Yakatabune dinner cruise.

Day 3: Nikko (FB) Drive north to Nikko, which has been the centre of Shinto and Buddhist worship for many centuries.

Visit to the Toshogu Shrine complex, built as a mausoleum for Tokugawa Ieyasu, founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate that ruled Japan for over 250 years. It is a lavishly decorated shrine complex in a beautiful forest setting. Proceed to Chuzenji Lake, and the beautiful Kegon Waterfall sitting in the mountains above Nikko.

Day 4: Tokyo – Hakone and Mt. Fuji area (FB,D) Travel to Hakone, if luck is on your side you may be able to see the legendary Mt. Fuji. The first stop is the Hakone shrine. This Shinto shrine was very popular among Samurai during the twelfth century and is hidden away in a dense forest. Drive to Lake Ashi and take a novel ride across the lake on board a Pirate Boat*.

After disembarking, continue our adventure via Ropeway enjoying views of the Owakudani Valley.

Spectacular views of Mt. Fuji can also be seen on a clear day. You’re Invited: Tonight, live like a local by staying in a Japanese ryokan sleeping on futons laid out on tatami mats. Overnight Stay: Hakone Kowakien Ten-yu.

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Day 5: Hakone – Takayama (FB,D) Relax as you travel through the stunning mountain scenery to Takayama. Takayama retains a traditional touch like few other Japanese cities, especially in its beautifully preserved old town.

Two Night Stay: Best Western Takayama or similar#.

Day 6: Takayama Sightseeing (FB) Today is full of cultural immersion starting with a visit to the Miyagawa morning market. This is one of Japan’s biggest morning markets with stalls selling various local crafts and produce. Head to Takayama Jinya, also known as the Historical Government House. For almost two centuries this building served as a local government office and it is the only surviving government building from the Edo period. Continue to Matsuri-no-Mori Festival Museum that showcases the key aspects of the Takayama Festival, one of Japan’s major festivals. You’re Invited: Visit Hida Folk Village, an open-air museum exhibiting over 30 traditional houses from the mountainous region around Takayama. Join a local expert and learn the craft of making the cute sarubobo dolls, the perfect souvenir to take home.

and artisan shops. The Kiyomizu temple, with a 13-meter-high veranda of the Temple’s Main Hall offers an amazing view of Kyoto and was built without using a single nail. You’re Invited: Experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony at a temple. A tea master will demonstrate how to prepare for a tea ceremony, how to conduct as a host and of course how to make a bowl of green tea. Three Night Stay: Kyoto Tokyu Hotel.

Day 7: Takayama – Shirakawa-go – Kanazawa (FB) Continue through mountain scenery stopping at the village of Shirakawa-go. It is famous for its traditional thatched roofed farmhouses, some of which are more than 250 years old. Learn about the history and customs of the people while taking a relaxing stroll around the village. Drive to Kanazawa and visit Kenroku-en Garden, one of Japan’s most beautiful gardens. The legend of the Samurai is still strong throughout Japan and Kanazawa has one of the best surviving Samurai districts, the Nagamachi Samurai District. Here we visit the Nomura Samurai House, an authentic Samurai house and museum to learn about these skilled and fearsome warriors. Overnight Stay: ANA Crowne Plaza or similar.

Day 9: Kyoto sightseeing (FB,HL,HD) Nijo Castle was built in 1603 as the Kyoto residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first Shogun of the Edo Period. The ornamental building is well known for its Momoyama architecture, decorated sliding doors, and ‘chirping’ nightingale floors. Be taken to Kinkakuji, also known as the Golden Pavilion. Originally built as a retirement villa for the Shogun, it is now a Buddhist Temple.

It is a remarkable sight with its shimmering top two floors being completely covered in gold leaf. You’re Invited: Visit the nearby town of Arashiyama which contains the magnificent Tenryuji temple, one of Kyoto’s largest and most impressive temples. Enjoy a unique experience as you are invited to partake in a special temple lunch. Afterwards, explore the temple buildings and wander the beautiful gardens. Take the path through Arashiyama’s famous bamboo groves, and end at the Nonomiya shrine. You’re Invited: Experience Kyoto like a local. Jump on board your rickshaw and enjoy this fun and traditional mode of transport while your driver pulls you from the bamboo groves to Togetsu Bridge. You’re Invited: Tonight you will have the honour of taking part in a traditional Japanese dinner with a maiko (apprentice geisha). Geisha’s have entertained the elite in Kyoto for centuries. They undergo strict training in the traditional Japanese arts such as music, song and dance to ensure they are the perfect dining hosts. Dinner with a maiko is not only steeped in tradition but is fun and fascinating.

Day 8: Kanazawa – Kyoto (FB) Board the JR Limited express train bound for Kyoto+. Being the former capital and home of the Emperor, it is famous for exquisite castles and imperial palaces, as well as elaborate and ornate Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines. Be led on a walking tour of the Higashiyama district. Admire the picture-perfect streets lined with teahouses

Day 10: Nara (FB) Drive to the town of Nara. During the eighth century, Nara was Japan’s capital and many of the temples and shrines built at that time still stand today. Visit Todaiji temple, one of the world’s largest wooden structures and home to Japan’s largest Buddha. The park surrounding the temple is referred to as “Deer Park” due to the large

For reservations and enquiries please call Travel Masters on: (07)55 960 511 or The Travel Studio on: (07)55 72 72 72

Discover Japan Night Stopovers

JAPAN

Land Content Ferry Content Rail Content

Kanazawa 1

Map provided as a guide only.

Please refer to terms & conditions.

Nikko

Shirakawa-go 2 Takayama Mount Fuji

3 Tokyo 1

Hakone

3 Kyoto 1

Osaka

Hiroshima 2

Nara

SAVE UP TO AN EXTRA

$1,900*

Miyajima Island

PER COUPLE See page 6

population of deer who roam freely. Next stop is Nara’s most celebrated shrine, Kasuga Taisha, famous for its hundreds of bronze and stone lanterns. From Nara, travel to the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine. Featured in the movie “Memoirs of a Geisha”, this shrine is known for its thousands of red torii gates leading up and through the sacred forest of Mount Inari. This is a highlight of any visit to Japan.

Day 11: Kyoto – Hiroshima via Bullet Train (FB,D) Morning free in Kyoto before departing. Discover More: Learn the samurai way with a Samurai Kembu Lesson. All aboard the high speed bullet train (Shinkansen) to Hiroshima+. Sit back and take an experience like no other with a ride on this amazing engineering marvel. Hiroshima is unenviably remembered for the atomic bomb that was dropped during WWII. Peace Memorial Park and museum stand as a stark reminder of the devastation caused, but also the progress made.

Two Night Stay: Sheraton Grand Hiroshima.

Day 12: Hiroshima Sightseeing (FB) Travel by local train to board a ferry to Miyajima Island. This is a small sacred island located in the Inland Sea and has been a holy place of Shintoism since the earliest times. Here you will find perhaps the most photographed site in Japan; The Floating Torii Gate. Take the ferry back and transfer to Peace Memorial Park on a relaxing boat trip. This park is dedicated to the legacy of Hiroshima as the first city in history to suffer a nuclear attack.

The park’s main attraction is the Peace Memorial Museum, which provides an opportunity to learn about the devastating effects the A-bomb had on the city of Hiroshima and its people. After visiting the museum, take a local tram back to your hotel.

Day 13: Hiroshima – Osaka via Bullet Train (FB,D) Reboard the high-speed bullet train bound for Osaka for your final adventure on this remarkable train+. On arrival in Osaka, be taken on a city tour. First stop is the majestic Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s most famous castles. The contrast between the old Osaka Castle park with its large stone walls and the surrounding skyscrapers provides an excellent example of the balance between modern Japan and its rich cultural heritage. Continue to Dotonbori district and stop at the Umeda Sky Building. Here enjoy unobstructed 360-degree view of Osaka from the open-air observatory. Tonight enjoy a farewell dinner with your newfound friends.

Overnight Stay: Hotel Granvia Osaka.

Day 14: Depart Osaka (FB) Transfer to the airport for your departure flight^.

We hope you enjoyed your visit to Japan and look forward to welcoming you back on another Evergreen cruise or tour. Sayonara!

INCLUDED IN YOUR PRICE • The services of an Evergreen Tour Director • 14 day Japan touring experience • Premium First Class hotels including all service charges and porterage# • Experience two journeys on the famed bullet train and one on the express train+ • Sightseeing by modern air conditioned coaches • Return airport transfers^ • All tipping and gratuities • Spend three nights in the fascinating city of Tokyo • Tour Tokyo including the Meiji Shrine, Roppongi Hills Observation Deck and Tokyo’s old town, Asakusa • Spend the day in Nikko visiting the Toshogu Shrine complex, Chuzenji Lake and Kegon Waterfall • See Hakone shrine, take a Pirate Boat ride on Lake Ashi* and ride the Ropeway enjoying views of the Owakudani Valley

• Visit Hakone which affords opportunities to view Mt. Fuji • Visit the beautifully preserved old town of Takayama including Miyagawa morning market, Takayama Jinya, and Matsurino Mori Festival Museum • Enjoy a visit to the ancient village of Shirakawa-go with it’s thatched roofed houses • Learn the traditions and legends of the samurai in Kanazawa with a visit to Nomura Samurai House • Spend three nights in historic Kyoto • In Kyoto visit Higashiyama district, Kiyomizu temple, Nijo Castle, Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion), Arashiyama’s bamboo groves and the Nonomiya shrine • In Hiroshima, take a ferry to Miyajima Island and see the Floating Torii Gate, and visit Peace Memorial Park and Museum • Tour majestic Osaka Castle and take in views of Osaka from the Umeda Sky Building

DINING HIGHLIGHTS

YOU’RE INVITED

• 20 superb meals including: 13 Full Breakfasts (FB), 1 Highlight Lunch (HL), 5 Dinners (D) & 1 Highlight Dinner (HD) • Welcome and farewell dinners

• Spend the night in a traditional Japanese ryokan • Join a local expert and learn the craft of making sarubobo dolls • Participate in a tea ceremony with a local tea master • Partake in a special temple lunch at Tenryuji temple • Ride like a local through Kyoto on a rickshaw • Have the honour of taking part in a traditional Japanese dinner with a maiko (apprentice geisha)

Discover More

You’re Invited

Contact us for full details

Full details on pages 4–5

DEPARTURE DATES & PRICES 14 Day Tokyo to Osaka

EJTO

2020

Departures

Twin Share

Single Room

March

22

$9,695

$11,795

May

17

$9,595

$11,595

October

20

$9,595

Departs in cherry blossom season

$11,595

Discover More Tokyo Yakatabune Dinner Cruise with return transfers

$295

Kyoto Samurai Kembu Lesson

$135

Kyoto Samurai Kembu Lesson with return transfers

$365

Full Deposit (required within 2 days of booking)

$1,000 pp

Other Touring Information

Prices are per person in AUD. Tour itinerary and prices valid for departures 01 March 2020 to 30 November 2020. *Lake Ashi Pirate boat cruise is subject to weather conditions. #Takayama accommodation does not include porterage. +When taking inter city trains you will be required to pack down to a day pack as your main luggage will be transferred by a separate vehicle. ^Arrival and departure transfers are by a shared service and are not private. Discover More: Please enquire for full details. Tour Maps: Any tour maps or other route depictions are intended as an indication only and should not be relied upon. For full terms and conditions please see the back cover or refer to our website www.evergreentours.com.au.

Travel Masters & The Travel Studio

www.travelmasters.com.au

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