Highlights of China and Japan: Cherry Blossom Tour

14 days 13 nights

fromUSD $4798.00

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Single Supplement: USD $960.00

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Initially built in the 1600s, Tiananmen Square is the unofficial center of Beijing. The public square outside the Gate of Heavenly Peace has been a focal point for much of China’s major historic moments, including the Announcement of the People’s Republic and the 1989 Tiananmen Square Protests. Located in the square are a few other important sites, including the Monument to the People’s Heroes and Mao Zedong’s Mausoleum.

This vast complex housed the Chinese Ming and Qing imperial family for nearly 500 years, with 980 buildings all built in the traditional Chinese architectural style. Included among such impressive structures is the Hall of Supreme Harmony, the Palace of Tranquil Longevity, and the Gate of Divine Might. Also includes a Palace Museum displaying numerous artworks from as far back as the Qing Dynasty.

Wangfujing is a wide commercial promenade with hundreds of stores, including the great Beijing Department Store, Beijing APM, and Beijing Mall. The great pedestrian boulevard is frequented by hundreds of thousands of daily shoppers – an excellent opportunity for people-watching. Off one side is Wangfujing Snack Street, which serves a wide variety of exotic and delicious street foods.

Once savored by Chinese nobility, this delicious dish has become a favorite food of numerous celebrities and foreign dignitaries to the People’s Republic. The Chinese duck, after being specially prepared and marinated in sweet and savory seasonings, is brought to the table by the chef to be meticulously carved. This lends the Peking Duck as much exquisitely royal style as crisp, tender substance.

The Great Wall was built in China’s ancient past to ward off invaders, and the Pass of Juyongguan was known as one of the three “Impregnable Passes” because of its strong fortification. The section of the Wall in this narrow mountain pass was built in a loop to surround temples, soldiers’ barracks and other old buildings including a central “Cloud Platform” which once held three tall stupas.

Originally begun by the Yongle Emperor according to the Chinese principles of feng shui, creating a symbolic harmony between heaven and earth, the Tombs of the Ming Emperors are now a UNESCO Heritage Site. Walking the central Sacred Path brings visitors to these opulent royal mausoleums, unearthing a new understanding of centuries of Ming-era culture and traditional art.

Supposedly built to defend the First Emperor of the Qin Dynasty in the afterlife, the soldiers of the Terracotta Army are truly an incredible wonder of ancient Chinese art and craftsmanship. Sealed underground for centuries, these clay warriors, horses, and chariots are exquisitely preserved and intricately detailed, down to the minute differences found in each soldier’s face.

Huaqing pool is a geothermal spring that is home to a palatial bathhouse with scenic views of the countryside around Mount Li. This hot spring is especially renowned in Chinese historical lore as the place where the last of Ancient China’s Four Great Beauties, Yang Guifei, captured the heart of the Tang Emperor, memorialized at the site in an elegantly carved statue of Yang.

The Bell Tower of Xian has been the center of the city since the first days of the Ming dynasty, when Xian was also the official seat of Imperial China. Symmetrical and stately, the inside is decorated with inscriptions from the Ming and Qing eras, as well as housing a replica of the original bronze Jingyun bell, which rang throughout the old city every morning.

While dumplings are common to most areas of China, Xian dumplings are born of a mixture of Chinese and Tibetan culture. As much of a culinary art in the city of Xian as they are a delectable dish, visitors to select restaurants can experience the taste of Chinese dumplings prepared in a variety of colorful styles and unique flavors.

The Bund of Shanghai refers to a large waterfront promenade stretching alongside the Huangpu River. Once a prominent financial district in the 1800s, this vintage walk preserves an intriguing jumble of European architectural style in an international “exhibition of buildings”. This mix of structures presents a fascinating contrast to the modern skyscrapers on the other side of the river.

Yu Garden was built by a court official of the Ming imperial era to be the largest and most exquisite garden in Shanghai. Passing through many different owners in the succeeding centuries has expanded the features of this “Garden of Happiness” to be one of the most unique gardens in the world, with an old-fashioned teahouse (still in use), a large rockery, detailed carvings, and a great “Jade Rock”.

The Shanghai WFC Tower is a unique skyscraper in Shanghai, and one of the city’s tallest, at 492 meters, and with a very distinct and breathtaking observation deck at 474 meters, suspended over a trapezoid-shaped aperture. Visitors can see the Huangpu River running off toward the horizon, surrounded by an impressive vista of Shanghai skyscrapers and other local features.

Running from The Bund all the way to the People’s Square, Nanjing Road is by far the most popular shopping districts in Shanghai. After nearly a century of development, East and West Nanjing Road is now home to many luxurious boutique stores selling chic fashion brands, electronics, books and toys. Though more old- fashioned Chinese goods, like jade and silk, are also represented.

Located north of Nara Park is one of Japan’s most historic and famous temple called the Todai-Ji Temple. This temple is listed as one of Japan’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The temple’s main hall named Daibutsuden, is the largest wooden building in the world. It is home to one of Japan’s largest bronze statues of Buddha siting at fifteen meters tall.

Located in central Nara is Nara Park, it is one of the most famous and popular parks in Japan. The park is famous and popular because it is home to over one thousand deer. The deer roam freely throughout the park and visitors are able to get up close and feed the deer as well. This park is conveniently located near most of Nara’s main tourist destinations, which include Todai-Ji Temple, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Kofuku-Ji Temple, and the Nara National Museum.

The Fushimi Inari-Taisha Grand Shrine is located in southern Kyoto and is one of the most famous and visited shrines in Kyoto. This shrine is only five minutes away from Kyoto Station by train, and features over a thousand vermillion colored torii gates that brings many tourist to this shrine every year.

Arashiyama is located on the western outskirts of Kyoto and is a well-known destination for both the cherry blossoms and fall colors seasons. North of the famous Togetsukyo Bridge is Sagano, and together they make this place a nice little getaway from temples and shrines to enjoy nature. Popular destinations include the Togetsukyo Bridge and the Bamboo Forest of Arashiyama.

Located in the Arashiyama district in Kyoto, the Tenryu- Ji Temple is Arashiyama’s most popular temple. The temple is listed as one of Japan’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The original buildings of Tenryu-Ji Temple was lost many times throughout its history, except for Tenryu-Ji’s garden. The Tenryu-Ji Temple Zen Garden that visitors see today is the original garden and landscape.

One of the most popular and well-known spots for visitors is the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. A nice walking path takes visitors through the groves of bamboos. The Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is also one of the most famous and photographed places in all of Kyoto and brings many visitors every year during the autumn color season.

The famous Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion) Temple is located in northern Kyoto and is most known for the building covered in gold leaf. This famous building is the number one most popular destination for tourist visiting Kyoto. The Golden Pavilion sits overlooking a large pond and various small attractions and shops are available for visitors.

Take the chance of interacting with a maiko while drinking tea, ask her about her profession, training, and lifestyle. What is different between her life and other girls in Japan? Drink a cup of tea with her, and fulfill some of your curiosity, and even take a picture with her.

The Kiyomizu-Dera Temple is located only 15 minutes away by bus from Kyoto Station to the eastern side of Kyoto. This temple is one of the most popular temples in Kyoto and is listed as one of Japan’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The temple features a large wooden terrace that offers a fantastic view of the cherry blossoms in the spring and autumn colors during the fall season with the city of Kyoto in the background.

Maruyama Park is located in eastern Kyoto near the Gion district, only 20 minutes away by bus from Kyoto Station. During cherry blossom season in the spring, this is the most popular park for hanami and to view the cherry blossoms. In the center of the park is the tall weeping cherry tree that becomes lit up for a beautiful cherry blossom spring night.

Located only 20 minutes away by bus from Kyoto Station, is the Gion Geisha District. The Gion Geisha District is one of the most famous and popular destinations for tourist visiting Kyoto. This area is filled with restaurants, teahouses, shops, and other attractions to entertain guests. The machiya merchant houses along with river and the occasional geisha walking around, brings visitors from everywhere to experience everything that this area has to offer.

The Miho Museum is located in the city of Koka and along with Koka’s ninja attractions, is a fun side trip from Kyoto. This museum has a unique architecture that blends in well with its surroundings and artwork display. This museum features many exhibits of world history and culture.

Hikone Castle is located in Hikone Japan not too far from Kyoto off the shores of Lake Biwa. This castle is one of the four castles in Japan that were declared as national treasures. This castle is an original castle that has never been destroyed and rebuilt. Around the castle is the Hikone Castle Museum and the beautiful Genkyuen Garden.

Built on the grounds of Hikone Castle in 1677, the Genkyuen Garden features a central pond and a circular walking path. It was originally built as a means of entertainment for the local lord, his family, and his guests. From the garden visitors can see the Hikone Castle’s mainkeep, known as “borrowed scenery”. There are also a cluster of wooden buildings where tourists can enjoy a cup of tea during their serene visit.

The shinkansen (or "bullet train") is a type of high speed train that travels between most of the major cities in Japan. By taking the shinkansen, trips between destinations that might take almost a full day by car can be reached in a few hours. The bullet trains can run up to 320 kilometers per hour (close to 200 miles per hour), and are known to be generally on time, comfortable and safe.

One of the most popular ways to get around Hakone is by taking the Hakone Ropeway. The ropeway travels between Sounzan and Togendai. The Hakone Ropeway gives visitors a beautiful view of Hakone and on a clear day, it is possible to get a nice view of Mount Fuji as well.

Owakudani is located in Hakone and is an area around a crater where gaseous fumes, hot springs, and hot rivers exist. Just like most of Hakone, on a clear day, it is possible to see Mount Fuji as well. There are hiking trails available for guests, but these trails are difficult for inexperience hikers.

Mt. Fuji is a widely-known symbol of Japan. At 3,773 meters, Mount Fuji is Japan’s tallest mountain. “Station (gome)” is the unit representing one tenth of the length from the trail entrance to the top.The fifth station Mt. Fuji is the fifth point from the base at the height of 2,305 meter. Being the end of the Fuji Subaru Line toll road and the highest point that general cars can reach. From the observatory you can see below Komitake Shrine, an ancient place for prayer that has been visited by worshippers and disciplinant, and Yamanaka-ko, the largest lake among the five Fuji lakes.

The outer Tsukiji Fish Market offers a variety of freshly prepared food products and ingredients. Travel in between the different stores and taste a few of their dishes, freshly prepared with some of the best ingredients.

The Imperial Palace is located in the center of Tokyo, only a short walk away from Tokyo station. The palace is home to the current Imperial Family. The inner grounds of the palace is not open to the public, except on January 2nd and December 23rd where guests are able to enter and see the current members of the Imperial Family from a balcony. Visitors can view the Nijubashi, two bridges that form an entrance to the inner palace grounds. The stone bridge in front is called Meganebashi (Eyeglass Bridge) for its looks. The bridge in the back was formerly a wooden bridge with two levels, from which the name Nijubashi (Double Bridge) is derived.

Take a lesson from an expert and prepare fresh sushi. Experience the difference in the taste of Japanese-grown ingredients. Then, enjoy eating your masterpiece for lunch after completing your sushi lesson.

Ueno Park is located in next to Ueno Station in Tokyo. This large public park features many museums such as the Tokyo National Museum and the National Science Museum. The entrance of the famous Ueno Zoo is also located in the park. Ueno Park is Tokyo’s most popular location to view the cherry blossoms in the spring, and has a large number of Hanami parties.

The Sensoji Temple located in Asakusa is one of the most popular Buddhist temples to visit. The temple was built and completed in the year 645 and is Tokyo’s oldest temple. The surrounding area offers shopping for souvenirs and food. The Sanja Festival is one of Tokyo’s biggest festivals and is held every May at Asakusa Temple.

The Tokyo Skytree is Japan’s tallest structure ever built and the world’s second tallest structure ever built at the time of its completion. Located not too far from Asakusa, this 634 meter tall tower is now one of the most popular destinations for visitors. The main observatory is 350 meters high and the second observation deck is 450 meters high and both offer a breathtaking view of the city.