Welcome to Intrepid real life experiences... we hope that you enjoy exploring the world as much as we do.
Load up that camera for a journey to the Land of the Rising Sun - a fascinating country where the past meets the present, and the present blurs into the future. Spot geisha in traditional kimono tripping gently past fashion-conscious teens and discover traditional tatami-floored teahouses alongside shiny modern buildings. Amazingly high-tech, yet home to a treasure trove of cultural and natural delights, Japan will inspire a wealth of gorgeous imagery at every turn.
Warning - This is a new trip for us!
While we have been operating in Japan for over seven years now and have had a team of researchers travelling in the area to put together this trip, it still must be remembered that this is a relatively new trip for us. To be frank, we expect some things to go wrong! We usually make this warning when we head to new destinations - and usually we find there are more pleasant surprises in store than unpleasant ones. But the warning is sincere, and if it concerns you then we recommend that you wait for a year until we get any bugs ironed out. Any improvements to our itinerary are noted immediately on our website, so before booking and travelling please go to www.intrepidtravel.com and enter this trip code in the trip finder to check for any updates.
Style
Trip Map
Itinerary
Culture Shock Rating
Physical Rating
Physical Preparation
Included Activities
Optional Activities
Spending Money
Tipping
Local Payment
Important Notes
Group Size
Accommodation
Meals
Meal Inclusions
Comfort is your kind of style if you want a few little extras, but don't want to compromise on the whole grassroots travel experience. You get to stay in better hotels and guesthouses, all with plenty of local character, and may travel in private transport as well as joining locals on public transport. You're as likely to find yourself paddling a kayak as relaxing on a cruise along the Yangtze River. These are real life experiences, just with a softer landing. And all for just a little more than our Original adventures.
Konnichiwa! Welcome to Japan.
Please ensure you download and review the latest trip notes prior to your trip as we make improvements and changes to our itineraries. This will ensure you have the most up to date information about your trip. Check the 'visa' section of these trip notes for any information about visa requirements on this trip.
You can arrive at the joining-point hotel at anytime on day 1 as there are no planned activities aside from a group meeting in the evening followed by dinner. Your leader will contact you to arrange this meeting, and will also collect your local payment. Please bring new bills/notes in large denominations.
Check in at the ryokan isn't until 4 pm but you can leave your bags with reception and explore the area if you arrive before then.
The imperial capital for over 1,000 years, Kyoto has an amazing number of temples, gardens, shrines and other historical sites as well as picturesque backstreets to lose yourself in. From the peace and serenity of a Zen rock garden to the hustle and bustle of Nishiki food market, we spend a couple of days exploring the best of what Kyoto has to offer. Our professional photographer will be available to give tips on how to best capture the places we visit.
On day 2 we have the option of going to see the final day of the March Sumo tournament in nearby Osaka (30 minutes by train). Despite being just a short distance away, rough and ready Osaka has a very different atmosphere to refined and cultured Kyoto.
In the evening Dotonbori, the famous food strip of Osaka (itself the food capital of Japan) is alive with lights and activity as people enjoy the culinary delights at the hundreds of restaurants and food stalls. Try your luck with fugu (pufferfish), tuck into some takoyaki (octopus balls) or try the Osaka version of the now well-known okonomiyaki (Japanese pancake).
To the south of Kyoto, Fushimi Inari Shrine is famous for its 10,000 torii gates lining a path that winds up a nearby hill. It's beautiful at any time of day but especially sublime at dawn and a short hike will take you to quiet corners and peaceful shrines before returning for a bento box picnic.
A traditional bento box contains a well-balanced selection of various delicacies and is a great way to sample a variety of typical Japanese cuisine. We also visit the Gold Pavilion which offers an insight into the imperial wealth of this city in the 14th and 15th centuries and Ryoanj-ji rock garden, famous for its Zen arrangement of large dark stones surrounded by raked white pebbles.
We take an evening walk through the Geisha district of Gion with its beautiful traditional wooden houses and if you're lucky you'll see a Geisha running over the cobblestones on her way to her next appointment. Part of a secret elusive world where the privacy of their clients is paramount and discretion is their most important asset, geisha have long intrigued visitors who catch glimpses of the exclusive, invitation only world these enigmatic women live in.
On day 4 we take a day trip to Himeji castle (1 hour each way). This amazing castle was built in 1580 and is one of the few Japanese castles that have survived to the current day in their original form. Often called White Heron; castle because of its white plaster walls and soaring gables the castle’s main tower still stands proudly on a hill overlooking the city. Expertly designed to confuse and outwit attackers the intricate traps and tricks of the castle were never tested. The long period of peace during the Edo era (1601-1868) mean the towering stone walls and twisting paths of this national treasure and UNESCO world heritage site have never been attacked.
There is also some free time to explore Kyoto at your own pace and apply what you have learnt in our photography workshops. Kiyomizudera (Pure Water Temple), founded in 780, and one of the most celebrated temples in Japan, is another highly recommended site to visit. The mountain spring from which this temple derives its name is believed to have healing waters so make sure to have a drink before you leave.
We travel to Takayama (5 hours) by Shinkansen (bullet train), making sure to take the opportunity to photograph one of these famous trains as they shoot past at top speed. Just make sure you have your camera turned on, ready and pointed in the right direction! Travelling at speeds up to 300 km per hour these high tech trains are part of Japan's amazing network of rail lines that cover the country from north to south.
Arriving in Takayama, why not head straight to its famous for its old quarter. Stroll along the old cobblestone streets lined with traditional houses, and perhaps visit the morning market where local farmers sell fresh produce and local delicacies. Explore beautifully designed merchants' houses or pop into a sake brewery for a nip of world-renowned Takayama sake.
Later we visit Hida-no-Sato, a folk village that preserves some of the area's traditional farmhouse architecture, including houses built in 'hands in prayer' style. This style is named for the steepness of the thatched roofs that can withstand heavy snowfall. These traditional houses make for some very atmospheric photographs with the slow burning wood fires smoking the thatch to keep it dry. The dinner at our ryokan is a feast both for the stomach and the eyes.
There is the option of taking a bus ride to get a view of the stunning alpine scenery in this area or visit the famous onsen town of Gero, which, according to local legend, was revitalised when a crane showed the villagers the location of a new hot spring.
On day 6 we travel to Nikko north of Tokyo (6.5 hours). Those blessed with clear weather might catch a glimpse of Mt Fuji as we drive through Shizuoka. Please be aware that Mt Fuji is a notoriously shy - views can never be guaranteed. If luck is on our side we’ll be able to snap some great shots of the mountain rising majestically from the flat Kanto plain.
We arrive in Nikko in the afternoon. Established as a monastic retreat in the 8th century, Nikko became more famous in the early 17th century when it was chosen as the resting spot of the first Tokugawa shogun. He unified Japan after decades of civil war and no expense was spared in construction of Toshogu, the shrine dedicated to him. Surrounded by a forest of 350 year-old cedar trees, it is a truly picturesque setting. We have the chance to explore it as well as other temples and shrines in the area.
A bus ride takes us to the amazing Nikko National Park and Lake Chuzenji where you can see wild monkeys, deer and birdlife among volcanic peaks, spring-fed lakes and ash fields blanketed in wildflowers. If you’re in the mood to stretch your legs, be sure to follow the trail past waterfalls and through beautiful countryside, before reaching tranquil Lake Chuzenji.
We also take a short walk to a grotto of Buddhist statues that sit peacefully next to the clear river near our ryokan. At the end of the day why not relax in the onsen at our ryokan and let the hot water and sound of the river rushing outside relax and rejuvenate you after our fun-filled and action-packed day.
On day 9 we travel to Tokyo (approx. 2 hours). Despite its worldwide reputation as a megacity, you'll soon discover that there's more to Tokyo than neon lights and soaring skyscrapers.
Harajuku is the place to be on Sundays. Present and past collide as youngsters prance and preen just outside one of Tokyo's most important Shinto shrines. Teenagers from Tokyo and the surrounding area converge on Harajuku, out to see and be seen in their goth/punk/French maid finery. Nearby Yoyogi park is another hub for various subcultural groups who congregate on Sunday afternoons.
Right next to all this modern youth culture is Meiji Shrine, dedicated to the late Meiji emperor and his consort. The Meiji emperor is revered as the emperor who brought Japan out of its self-imposed isolation as a semi-rural backwater and put it on the track to rapid modernisation in the early 20th century. It's common to see Shinto wedding ceremonies being conducted here on Sundays.
It's an early start on Monday morning to visit Tsukiji Fish Market, a collection of 1,700 stalls selling over 450 varieties of seafood - many that you'll probably be encountering for the first time.
Arrive early (around 5am) for the chance to see tuna being auctioned, then enjoy a sashimi breakfast - it's bound to be some of the freshest you are ever likely to get. The colours and energy of Tsukiji make for some amazing photos but just remember to stay out of the way of the motorised carts that whizz around the area delivering and picking-up seafood from the hundreds of stalls.
There is also an option (availability permitting) to watch a sumo training session at one of the many beyas (stables) in the area but be aware that even if this is offered the stable master requests that no photos be taken during training as it would distract the wrestlers.
Walking around some of the downtown areas of Tokyo we explore the varied history of this fascinating city. Established in 1603 as the capital of the Tokugawa shogun's government, what started out as a small fishing village grew into the world's largest city. Despite experiencing natural disasters and devastations (the 1923 Kanto earthquake and the 1945 firebombing) Tokyo soon bounced back to become one of Asia's most vibrant centers.
Enjoy free time to explore the areas of the city that take your fancy; immerse in the electronics and general geek culture in Akihabara, window-shop in glitzy Ginza or get in touch with your shitamachi (downtown) spirit in Asakusa. Don't miss a show of Kabuki; traditional Japanese theatre where the main characters swagger and strut in fantastic costumes and striking face paint.
We spend a night exploring one of the many entertainment areas that cater to Tokyo's party animals and get some great night shots (bring your tripod). If you're up for a bit of karaoke (strictly optional) we can end the night at one of Tokyo's numerous karaoke bars.
On day 11 we take a day trip south to Kamakura (1 hour), the capital of Japan's first shogun in the 12th century. Boasting one of Japan's largest Buddha statues, the large number of temples attest to the fact that during the Kamakura era (1185-1333) Zen Buddhism flourished with the patronage of the samurai warrior class.
We spend the day exploring the historical city and its many attractions. Brightly painted Hachiman-gu shrine was the family temple of the shoguns and houses the god of war, Hase Dera houses a 9 m tall statue of the Engakuji is one of Kamakura's most important Zen temples and is dedicated to the souls of warriors who died on both sides of battles with the Mongolian invasion forces in the 13th century.
As there are no activities on day 13 you are free to depart at any time. If you'd like to stay a little longer, there are plenty of sights to see, in and around Tokyo.
The itinerary attached is correct at time of printing. Please note: occasionally our itineraries are updated during the year to incorporate improvements stemming from past travellers' comments and our own research. Our brochure is usually released in November each year. As such the information given in this itinerary may be slightly different to that in the brochure. It is VERY IMPORTANT that you print and review a final copy of your Trip Notes a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans. For the latest updated trip notes please visit our website: www.intrepidtravel.com
Expect some culture shock. You will be exposed to signs of poverty and access to services may be sporadic. The food will be quite different and English speakers harder to find. Respecting the local culture will make it easier to fit in and really experience the location.
Some easy physical activities included in your trip. No physical preparation is required to make the most of the journey.
In Japan many of our travel connections are made at fast pace and require you to walk up and down stairs at fast walking pace, please make sure you have an adequate level of fitness.
This is a list of included activities on this trip. All other activities are optional and at your own expense. For a list of optional
activities and sightseeing available on this trip, see the optional activities section below. If you choose not to participate in the included
activities on this itinerary, the cost will not be refunded.
Fushimi Inari shrine
Kyoto bus daypass
Ryoan-ji rock garden entry
Kinkaku-ji golden pavilion entry
Gion night walk
Himeji Castle entry
Hida-no-Sato folk village
Tosho-gu Shrine entry
Bus ride to Chuzenji Lake
Tsukiji Fish Market visit and breakfast
Big Buddha, Kamakura
Regular photography tutorials covering night shots, market photography, dawn-light photography, nature photography, photographing historical sites, food photography, and people and action shots.
We list the following optional activities for your information. This is not an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only.
They are not necessarily endorsed or recommended by Intrepid nor included in price of this trip. If you do any of them, you do so at your own risk and it must be clearly understood that your participation is your own decision and does not form part of your contract with Intrepid.
Sumo unreserved seats (Osaka) â“ USD30
Kiyomizu Temple (Kyoto) - USD5
Sanjusangendo Temple (Kyoto) -USD3
Bike hire per day (Kyoto) - USD10
Festival Float Museum (Takayama ) - USD4
Hase Dera, Kamakura â“ USD 3
Engaku-ji, Kamakura â“ USD 2
Edo Tokyo museum (Tokyo) - USD6
Kabuki performance (Tokyo) - USD10
Shinjuku Garden (Tokyo) - USD2
Got extra time before or after your Intrepid adventure? Maybe there is an URBAN ADVENTURE in one of the cities that you're visiting on your trip?
Intrepid's Urban Adventures are the city tour with a difference - there are more than 100 to choose from in over 30 cities around the world, with new trips added regularly. They are a great way to get under the skin of the city you're visiting, in just a few hours. To make a booking contact your local travel agent, Intrepid consultant or visit www.urbanadventures.com
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping, participating in optional activities and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
Tipping in Japan is not generally viewed as part of the culture and as such is not expected.
You may however consider tipping your leader for outstanding service throughout your trip. The amount is entirely a personal preference; however as a guideline US$ 1-2 per person, per day can be used. Of course you are free to tip more or less as you see fit, depending on your perception of service quality and the length of your trip. Remember, a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.
A local payment will be collected by your leader on day 1 of your trip. The amount of this local payment varies depending on whether you booked your trip on old or new prices.
New price local payment = JPY30000 on day 1.
This applies to all travellers who have paid in full after 22 Sept 2008.
Old price local payment = JPY22000 on day 1 .
This applies to all travellers who have paid in full prior to 22 Sept 2008.
Most of our trips require a compulsory local payment, which is part of the contract with you
(the customer) and Intrepid Travel Pty Ltd. This amount is the final payment for your trip
and is to be paid in the specified currency, in cash to your leader upon arrival.
The local payment is non-refundable, and is considered part of the total trip payment.
Further details and information on your local payment are shown in our brochures and on our website at
http://www.intrepidtravel.com/ourtrips/faq/#localpmt
Itinerary change (advised 29th Oct 2008): due to traveller's feedback on our Autumn trip in 2008, we have revised the itinerary to make improvements. Changes include; end point, the order off places visited, the number of nights in locations, inclusions, accommodation style.
All travellers must arrive with a 14 day ordinary JR rail pass. Please arrange this through your travel agent. The cost is around JPY45,100 (approx. US$375) depending on exchange rates. The price may be subject to agent service fee. Your group leader will assist in validating your pass on day 2 of the trip.
The pass can be used on day 14 to travel to Tokyo or Osaka airports for your international flights. Please note the JR rail pass is only valid for 3 months after issue. If you are unable to apply for a JR pass due to living in Japan at the time of travel, we are able to purchase tickets for you along the way. Please allow US$525 for this.
Please note this Intrepid Travel trip is operated by our experienced local partner.
Maximum of 12 travellers per group
Superior ryokans (Japanese guesthouses) 12 nts
While travelling with us you will experience the vast array of wonderful food available in the world. Your group leader will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. On our camping trips we often cook the region's specialties so you don't miss out. To give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat generally not all meals are included in the trip price. This also gives you more budgeting flexibility. As a rule our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Please check the 'meal inclusions' section of these notes for details of meals included.
Allow for meals not included.
12 Breakfasts, 3 Dinners
Bullet train, subway, local trains, local bus, walking
All Intrepid group trips are accompanied by one of our group leaders. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. Intrepid endeavours to provide the services of an experienced leader however, due to the seasonality of travel, rare situations may arise where your leader is new to a particular region or training other group leaders.
Your leader will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the places visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. At Intrepid we aim to support local guides who have specialised knowledge of the regions we visit. If you were interested in delving deeper into the local culture at a specific site or location then your leader can recommend a local guide service in most of the main destinations of your trip.
Heian No Mori
Okazaki Higashi Tenno Cho 51
Ukyo Ku
Kyoto
Japan
Phone: +81 (0) 75 761 3130
From Kansai airport take the train to Kyoto station. The Limited express Haruka runs approximately twice per hour and takes 1 hour and 20 minutes. If you have already validated your Japan Rail Pass you can use this to travel free of charge as this is a JR train. If you don’t wish to validate your JR Pass the ticket will cost you 3,490yen. When deciding when to validate your JR Pass please take into account any travel you will do after the tour. Your leader can assist you in validating your pass once the tour has started.
On arrival at Kyoto Station follow the signs toward the Kyoto Station building and exit toward Kyoto Tower. In front of you, to the north of the station, you will see a big area with bus stops. From bus stop “A” get on bus number 5 heading toward Iwakura. The bus fare is a flat fare of 220 yen which you pay as you exit the bus at the front (the entrance is at the rear of the bus). There is also a 500 all day pass if you wish to explore further on the excellent bus system. In about 30 minutes (depending on traffic) you will get to Higashi Tennojo where you need to get off the bus. Ask the driver or another passenger if you need help. From the bus stop walk back the way the bus just came to the intersection. There is an Esso gas stand on the opposite side of the road and next to Esso garage is a 5 floor apartment. Behind this is the Heian no mori (平安の森) ryokan.
You can also take a taxi to the hotel, the taxi fare will be approximately 2,000yen depending on traffic.
If you are arriving late in the evening please let our sales team know at time of booking so that we can advise the hotel.
We don't expect any problems (and nor should you!) but if for any reason you are unable to commence your
group trip as scheduled, please contact your starting point hotel, requesting that you speak to or leave a message for your trip leader.
If you have pre-booked an airport transfer (where available) and have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing
customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions in the Trip
Notes. Should this occur, please apply to your travel agent for a refund of the transfer cost on your return.
No refund is available on missed transfers or portions of your trip owing to a different flight arrival or delayed flight arrival. Any
additional cost incurred in order to meet up with your group is at your own expense.
Shigetsu Ryokan
1-31-11 Asakusa, Taito-ku
Tokyo
Japan
Phone: +81 3 3843 2345
Fax: +81 3 3843 2348
Ryokan Shigetsu is located right around the corner of the main street in Asakusa, "Nakamise-dori." This traditional ryokan in Tokyo has tatami mat rooms and is located in the historic Asakusa district.
To get to Narita Airport from the Shigetsu Ryokan walk to Asakusa station and take the Ginza line toward Shibuya. The ticket costs 160 yen and you need to get off at the 3rd stop, Ueno. From there follow the signs to the Keisei line and get on a train bound for Narita Airport. The fare is 1,920 yen for the express skyliner (about 1 hour) or 1,000 yen for the normal train (about 1.5 hours). Find out before you board which terminal you need to go to (terminal 1 or 2) by looking at your ticket or checking details on http://www.narita-airport.jp/en/index.html. If you need to go to terminal 1 this is the final stop of the train and the station name is âNarita Airportâ. The station name for terminal 2 is âNarita Airport Terminal 2â. Please do NOT get off at âNaritaâ station, this is the city, not the airport!
In the case of a genuine crisis or emergency, Intrepid's Melbourne Office can be reached on Tel: +61 3 9473 2650. For all other enquiries please contact our Reservations department which is open 24 hours, 6 days per week. For further contact details please use the following page: http://www.intrepidtravel.com/ourtrips/contact/.
Please also make sure you have access to an additional USD$400, to be used when unforeseen incidents or circumstances outside our control (eg. a natural disaster, civil unrest or an outbreak of bird flu) necessitate a change to our planned route.
Please note that visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. The visa requirements for your trip vary
depending on where you are from and where you are going. We keep the following information up to date as much as possible,
but rules do change. It is important that you check for yourself.
Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after your return date. Be sure to check the date you require a visa from and the length of time you will need to cover, especially if you change countries during your trip.
Japan: Nationals of most countries do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days. South African residents are amongst those who are required to get a visa.
Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. In addition, laundry services can be found outside our hotel in all major cities. There may be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non polluting/biodegradable soap.
What you need to bring will vary according to the trip style you have chosen, the countries you are visiting and when you are travelling. Generally speaking you should pack as lightly as possible. On the vast majority of our trips you are expected to carry your own luggage and although you will not be required to walk long distances with your luggage (max 30 minutes) we recommend keeping the weight under 10kg/22lb.
Most travellers carry their luggage in a backpack, although an overnight bag with a shoulder strap would suffice if you travel lightly. Smaller bags or backpacks with wheels are convenient although we recommend your bag has carry straps. You will also need a day pack/bag to carry water and a camera etc for daytrips.
The sale of bottled water contributes to an enormous environmental problem around the world. In addition to the water in bottles, the production of a 1 litre plastic bottle takes 2 litres of water and 200ml of oil. A large proportion end up in limited landfill or discarded in waterways and natural environments. Please avoid the purchase of bottled water by refilling from the tap or from drinking water dispensers which are provided at some of our accommodation.
You are expected to carry your own luggage for up to 15-20 minutes at a time. Train stations are quite complex and usually require a lot of stair climbing, especially when doing a quick transfer from train to train. Many ryokans (inns) do not allow suitcases with wheels into rooms with tatami mat floors, so it is better not to use these.
During your visit to Japan you may receive hospitality from local families/people. A great way to reciprocate is to bring a small gift from your country, eg. animal figurines, pens, flags or stickers.
Please note that the weather is quite a bit cooler in more remote areas outside of Tokyo - please pack accordingly.
While Japan is known for its 'out there' fashions overall it is quite a conservative country. Please remember that we spend time at temples, working monasteries, holy shrines, recreated villages and castles, cooking schools and ancient gardens. At these places it is important to be respectful to the staff and other visitors by wearing clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
The following checklist is to be used as a guide only and is not intended to be a complete packing list. Any other items that you wish to pack are at your own discretion however you should attempt to comply with the suggested luggage weight limit.
Travel documents: passport, visas, travel insurance certificate, air tickets, Intrepid voucher
Health requirements arranged
Money: traveller's cheques/cash/credit card and money pouch
Day pack to carry your personal needs during the day
First aid kit
Medication/prescriptions (it is a good idea to have a doctors letter if you are carrying a large amount of medication), travel sickness tablets if required
Prescription glasses and contact lens solution if required
Alarm clock
Torch/flashlight
Travel plug/international adapter
Insect repellent
Refillable water bottle
Sunscreen, hat and sunglasses
Swimming costume
Lightweight travel towel
Ear plugs/eye mask
Comfortable walking shoes
Tampons are difficult to buy in Japan
Japanese language phrase book
Camera, film and/or memory cards with spare batteries
Personal audio player with spare batteries
Raincoat/umbrella
Waterproof jacket
Almost all hotels in Japan provide shampoo, conditioner and body wash
Due to staying at local ryokans with tatami floors and the need to remove footwear each time you enter your room, shoes that are easy to slip on and off can make things a little easier.
Warm clothes in the winter months (October to April) including thermal underwear, a fleece jacket, warm hat and gloves
Japan Rail Pass
Currency exchange rates often fluctuate. For the most up to date rates please refer to the following website:
www.oanda.com.
Japan is predominantly a cash society and locals carry large amounts of cash for daily business.
Changing cash and Travellers cheques is possible in major cities although their use is quite limited and exchanging can be very time consuming. International credit cards can usually only be used at major department stores or large restaurants but cash from non Japanese bank accounts can be withdrawn via the Cirrus and Maestro system by direct debiting (as well as Mastercard and Visa cash advance). This is now available at all post office ATM's around the country as well as selected 7 Eleven convenience stores ATM's making it very easy to get access to cash throughout the trip at each location.
We recommend you arrive in Japan with as much Yen that you feel comfortable carrying. The arrival day of the trip in Tokyo is on the weekend so please ensure you have enough money for the first few days, by either bringing it with you or changing it at the airport (please be aware that ATMs in Japan have opening and closing hours and so are not available all the time).
All departure taxes should be included in your international flight ticket.
If you need to be contacted while travelling we recommend email. Email cafes are generally available throughout the regions we visit, although it is possible you may be without email contact for several days on some itineraries. If someone wishes to contact you in an emergency while you are on one of our trips we recommend that they contact your local booking agent, or refer to our emergency contact details. We don't recommend that family and friends try to contact you through hotels, as they are subject to change and the reception staff may not speak English.
While we always endeavour to provide the best possible holiday experience, due to the nature of travel and the areas we visit sometimes things can and do go wrong. Should any issue occur while you are on your trip it is imperative that you discuss this with your group leader or our local partner straight away so that they can do their best to rectify the problem and save any potential negative impact on the rest of your trip.
We recognise that there may be times when your group leader/local partner may not be able to resolve a situation to your satisfaction - if this is the case please ask the leader if you may speak to their direct manager.
You may also choose to provide details in your online feedback which we ask you to complete within 30 days of the end of your trip but we do ask you to be aware that it is very difficult for us to provide any practical help after the trip is complete.
All Intrepid travellers need to be in good physical health in order to participate fully in the group travel experience. If in the opinion of our group leader or company representative any traveller is unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group, Intrepid reserves the right to exclude them from all or part of a trip without refund. We therefore ask that you read the itinerary in these trip notes thoroughly and then realistically self-assess your physical ability to complete the trip as described. Please consult with your doctor if you have any doubts.
There are no specific health requirements for this trip. However, you should consult your doctor for up-to-date information and prescriptions before your departure. We recommend that you carry a first aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements. Please be aware that for legal reasons any leaders/guides are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets and antibiotics.
Please contact us at help@intrepidtravel.com should you require any clarification on what is involved on your itinerary. For travellers over 70 years a completed Intrepid Self Assessment Form is required.
Intrepid is very aware of the health issues raised by bird flu and SARS and these have been taken into consideration for all aspects of the trip you are about to take. Intrepid reserve the right to make changes to any itinerary in the very unlikely occurrence that an area should suddenly be deemed to be unsafe because of an outbreak of bird flu, SARS or other disease.
Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure. Please refer to our website's Safety page for links to major travel advisories and updates on safety issues affecting our trips: www.intrepidtravel.com/safety.
We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe-keeping of your passport, air tickets, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of our hotels have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage.
Your leader will accompany you on all included activities however during your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure. While your group leader will assist you with the available options in a given location, please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your Intrepid itinerary, and Intrepid makes no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgment when selecting an activity in your free time. Please also note that your group leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns.
For more details on the type of conditions and safety standards you can expect on your trip, please refer to Intrepid's operational safety policy at www.intrepidtravel.com/safety.
We recommend that you take a moment to read through this information before travelling, and would appreciate any feedback on how well it is being implemented in the field.
While life jackets are available on water craft in Asia, there may be occasions where child size life jackets are not readily available. If travelling with children and this safety issue concerns you we will be able to advise alternative methods of transport (where available) for you to travel to the next destination. You can choose to travel independently for this leg of the journey. This would be at your own expense.
Travel insurance is compulsory for all our trips. We require that, at a minimum, you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects.
When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance and the insurance company's 24 hour emergency contact number has been seen by your leader.
If you have credit card insurance your tour leader will require details of the participating insurer/underwriter, the level of coverage, policy number and emergency contact telephone number rather than the Bank's name and credit card details. Please contact your bank for these details prior to arriving in-country.
Please go to www.intrepidtravel.com/insurance.php for links to various travel insurance providers.
As you travel on a group trip you will be exposed to all the pleasures and maybe some of the
frustrations of travelling in a group. Your fellow travellers will probably come from all corners of the world and
likely a range of age groups too. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group
- patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone's travel experience.
Remember too that you have responsibilities to the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time,
ensure that you don't keep the rest of the group waiting. We have found time and time again that the very best
trips we operate are those where the dynamics within the group work well - this takes just a little effort on
your part.
Please note that due to privacy reasons we are unable to provide you with contact details and any personal information
about your fellow travellers booked on your trip prior to departure.
Our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a compulsory single supplement. Single travellers share with people of the same gender for the duration of the trip, in accommodation ranging from twin to multi-share. Please note some of our itineraries have accommodation booked on a mixed gender share basis - where applicable this will be specified in our Trip Notes. On a selection of our Comfort and Original style trips you have the option to pay a single supplement to ensure that you will have your own room (where available). Please refer to the important notes if this trip has a single supplement and any accommodation on the trip that the single supplement will not apply to. Please note that this only applies to accommodation during the tour, pre- and post-trip accommodation will be booked on a single room basis.
We believe strongly in low impact or rather positive impact tourism. Broadly speaking this means that we try to minimise the negative aspects of tourism on the local cultures and environments that we visit and highlight the positive aspects. Please refer to our website at www.intrepidtravel.com/responsibletravel for further details and suggestions on how you can be a responsible traveller.
Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on our trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for Intrepid travellers. Intrepid's philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make our destinations such special places. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our group leader has the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they use prostitutes.
Since Intrepid Travel commenced operating in 1989 we have been committed to giving something back to the communities we visit. One way has been through our support for local humanitarian, development and conservation projects. Many of our travellers want to contribute something too. To make things easier we established The Intrepid Foundation. All donations to The Intrepid Foundation will be matched by Intrepid Travel dollar for dollar, up to AU$5,000 per donor and a total of AU$300,000 for all donors in each financial year. And every cent gets there as Intrepid Travel pays for all the administration costs. Donating is simple and secure. Please ask your group leader for information on the projects we support in the region, through The Intrepid Foundation; or go to our website: www.theintrepidfoundation.org
All Intrepid travellers are required to sign a Participation Form on day 1 of the trip. Please note that signing the form is a prerequisite of
travelling with Intrepid. The wording of this form follows:
"I understand that travelling with Intrepid may involve risks (and rewards)
above and beyond those encountered on a more conventional holiday, and that
I am undertaking an adventure trip with inherent dangers. I understand that
I am travelling to geographical areas where, amongst other things, the
standard of accommodation, transport, safety, hygiene, cleanliness, medical
facilities, telecommunications and infrastructure development may not be of
the standard I am used to at home or would find on a conventional holiday. I
have read and understood the Intrepid trip notes for the trip I am
undertaking and have provided details of any pre-existing medical conditions
I have to Intrepid's representatives.
I accept these risks and obligations and I fully assume the risks of travel.
I release Intrepid Travel from any liabilities connected to these risks to
the maximum extent permitted by law."
After your travels, we want to hear from you! This is so important to us that we'll give you 5% off the price of your next trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 4 weeks of finishing your trip. Go to: www.intrepidtravel.com/feedback
Thanks!
Do you want to see your travel photos published? To celebrate all that is travel photography, Intrepid hold an annual Intrepid Photography Competition.
There are five categories - real life experiences, travelling families, local friends, landscapes, icons - each with a fabulous prizes.For more information,
entry form and competition conditions, please visit www.intrepidtravel.com/photocomp. Send entries to
The Editor,
Intrepid Travel,
PO Box 2781,
Fitzroy DC 3065,
Victoria, Australia.
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