JAPAN
of autumn, the perfect powder snow and ski conditions of winter, and the sub-tropical beaches all year round.” Client types vary and, although it is
one of the more expensive Asian destinations, over a quarter of Inside Japan’s clients fall into the 18-34 age group, with its next biggest group the 55-64 years-old age bracket. Clive Buckingham of JTB UK, meanwhile, says he is seeing a strong recovery in demand for travel to Japan, particularly for semi-escorted tours and “for that basic essential for independent travellers, the Japan Rail Pass”. Interest is at its strongest among older couples and honeymooners. And Ferroni believes Japan is suited
to any client: “It’s usually possible to fi nd a location or experience to match clients’ requirements and budget all year round. You want to be
pampered in luxury hotels and inns? You want to ski powder snow, fi ght samurai with your children, snorkel in tropical waters, prepare sushi in a restaurant? We can sort it out for you!” Most fi rst-time visitors to Japan typically embark on the classic ‘Golden Route’, taking in Tokyo, Hakone (for its natural onsen hot baths in the foothills of Mount Fuji), historic Kyoto – with its temples and shrines – and Osaka, making use of the iconic Shinkansen ‘bullet’ trains. Other popular destinations include Hiroshima and the island of Miyajima; the UNESCO World Heritage site of Nikko; quaint Takayama; the northern city of Sapporo; and the castle town of Matsuyama in the south. “A repeat visitor to Japan might like to explore the southern island of
Kyushu, visiting Nagasaki or the volcano of Mt Aso,” says Buckingham. “Another good option in summer is to hire a car and explore the relaxing countryside of the uncrowded northern island of Hokkaido.” The iconic Bullet trains are the most convenient and comfortable method of getting around the country, so recommend a Japan Rail Pass to independent travellers – at around £192 for a seven-day pass, it might seem expensive but is worth its weight in gold. Accommodation options include
everything from ‘capsule hotels’ to luxury international hotel brands, as well as traditional ryokan guesthouses. A stay at the latter is a unique experience and is included in the itineraries of many operators. Japanese cuisine, meanwhile, is
“The usual comment I get from visitors is that Japan is cheaper than people expect. It’s true that there are more affordable destinations, but the image of Japan and the
reality are quite different” AVI LUGASI, WINDOWS TO JAPAN
From left: Traditional torri gate, Hakone National Park; Nishiki Market, Kyoto; Bright lights of Shinjuku, Tokyo.
Award winning small group tours and
fully tailored travel from the UK’s biggest independent Japan travel experts
Tel: 0117 370 9751
www.sellinglonghaul.com
Email:
agents@insidejapantours.com www.insidejapantours.com
May 2013 3
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