Small Group Tours Experts in Real Japan Travel - Unique Japan Tours

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Small Group Tours Experts in Real Japan Travel - Unique Japan Tours
Small Group Tours
                    Experts in Real Japan Travel
Small Group Tours Experts in Real Japan Travel - Unique Japan Tours
Introduction to Unique Japan Tours
Our Story                                               Our Promise                                        Our Crew
Unique Japan Tours is a registered and bonded           The core values of our company are customer      Darina and her team have spent the past
travel agent. Our Managing Director, Darina Slattery,   service and customer safety.                     twenty years researching and designing exciting
is an Alumni of University of Ulster and the MichaelWe promise to provide first class customer service   adventurous routes throughout Japan. The
Smurfit Graduate School of Business, University                                                          itineraries are personally designed to embrace
                                                    in assisting you to choose one of our small group
College Dublin. She holds an MBS in International                                                        Japan’s highlights as well as some hidden gems.
                                                    or self-guided tours or design a tailor-made tour to
Marketing and a BA in Business with Japanese.       match your dreams. When you contact our company The company’s head office is based in Dublin with
                          After studying in Japan,  your personal travel consultant will be appointed to another office in Tokyo.
                          Darina developed an       manage your travel plans.                            We have a long list of others who help us all across
                          expertise in Japanese     We promise while you are in Japan that your          Japan (local guides, drivers, assistants at the
                          culture, heritage and     safety is our number one priority. In the unlikely   airport, and so on). Each one of these individuals
                          traditions. She has lived event of an emergency, or should something of        contribute to making each and every tour unique
                          and travelled extensively an unforeseen nature occur, our local staff will     and personal in its own way. Our wonderful team
                          throughout Japan.         respond to your every need. This 24/7 customer       of local Japanese staff are what make our tours so
                          Darina has forged strong  support will deal with anything from lost luggage to unique. They bring expert knowledge and a lovely
                          cultural relationships    rescheduling itineraries.                            friendly approach to touring Japan. We hope you
and is the current Chairperson of the Ireland Japan                                                      get to know our team well, while you enjoy your
                                                    We promise that our private guides will assist you
Association.                                                                                             trip with us!
                                                    in exploring the treats that Japan has in store. Our
Combining both theory and practice, Darina created knowledge and in-depth experience will ensure
Unique Japan Tours. She has built an international  you are exposed to the wide and diverse culture of
diverse team around her. Their sole purpose is      Japan. This will make choosing Unique Japan Tours
to help you enjoy the attractive, mysterious and    a memorable lifetime experience.
adventurous destination that is Japan.

Te s t i m o n i a l s
                                           I would like to thank you so much for the wonderful organisation and
                                           planning of our holiday to Japan recently. It was truly one my family will
                                           remember forever. The shared experiences you organised and recommended
                                           were perfect for us. The hotels, inns and ryokans were fantastic and
                                           combined perfectly. The guides and drivers you organised reflected well upon
                                           you and your company.
                                           (Crawford Family, Australia)

         Unique Japan Tours 		                                               IRE +353 (0)1 6787008 / UK +44 (0)20 32392519 / USA +1 (347)-688-3952
Small Group Tours Experts in Real Japan Travel - Unique Japan Tours
Small Group Tours                    4 - 5
                                                                                            Japan Discovered                 6 - 7
                                                                                 Hidden Treasures of Japan                   8 - 9
                                                                                     Ancient Trails of Japan                 10 - 11
                                                                                            Gardens of Japan                 12 - 13
                                                                                         Journey to the East                 14 - 15
                                                                                           Japan Rugby 2019                  16 - 17
                                                                              Team Ireland Rugby Tour 2019                   18 - 21
                                                                             Team England Rugby Tour 2019                    22 - 23
                                                                               Team Wales Rugby Tour 2019                           24
                                                                             Team Scotland Rugby Tour 2019                          25
                                                                                         Useful Information                  26 - 27

It was absolutely brilliant! We all fell in love with Japan                          We all had a fantastic trip and when anyone asks I
and the Japanese people. I was a bit worried about going                             reiterate the outstanding service and commitment
on a self-guided tour but we enjoyed the flexibility of                              of Darina and her associates. Without them, this
it and the travel pack was very accurate. We loved the                               voyage would not have been possible.
hotels, ryokans, and the dinner in Miyajima was splendid.                            (Duff & Kent Couples,
It was very hard to come back to reality and I can’t wait                            New Zealand and France)
to go back.
(McGrath Family, Ireland)

     Email: info@uniquejapantours.com           www.uniquejapantours.com
Small Group Tours
    Why join a Small Group Tour with Unique Japan Tours?

    We plan and operate exclusive Unique Japan ‘Small Group Tours’ that include many of the country’s highlights. We feature some of our own favourite
    towns, villages and off the beaten track locations. Our team has spent years researching the best places to include on these small group tour itineraries.
    We have put together a list of unforgettable trips around Japan.

    International clients                                     Off-the-beaten track locations                          High Quality Intimate Group
    We welcome clients from all over the world. Our tours     Each of our tours were lovingly designed by our team
                                                                                                                      Experience
    start and finish in Japan thereby facilitating arrival    of Japan enthusiasts. We have spent years finding the   Let’s just say you pay for what you get. We guarantee
    from any international airport from anywhere in the       places most consider hidden treasures. Combine years    excellent value for money. Our Small Group Tour
    world. Our team can arrange for a tailor-made, hassle     of research with local knowledge and passionate tour    policy dictates a minimum of six and maximum
    free, internal transfer within Japan to the start point   leaders, and you get an unforgettable holiday of a      of sixteen participants. This ensures access to
    for our Small Group Tour. Solo adventurers who opt        life-time to Japan.                                     contemporary chic hotels, rural onsens, family
    to share accommodation will not be charged single                                                                 minshiku’s, temple lodges and traditional Japanese
    supplement excess. This is subject to our team being                                                              ryokans. Our local guides will ensure that you sample
    able to arrange a share amongst your travelling group.                                                            the culinary delights from each region. This is a
                                                                                                                      mouth-watering experience to ensure your palate
                                                                                                                      tastes everything from the local delicacies to ‘Kaiseki’
                                                                                                                      dining in your traditional ryokans.

4            Unique Japan Tours 		                                                  IRE +353 (0)1 6787008 / UK +44 (0)20 32392519 / USA +1 (347)-688-3952
Passionate Tour Leaders                                      Meet the Locals!                                         Scenery & Adventure
Each Small Group Tour is led by one of our passionate        In order for you to get the most out of your time in     Our transfer services will allow you discover deeper
tour leaders who live or have lived in, know and             Japan, we will provide local guides in specific places   valleys and higher mountain tops, unlike when
love, Japan. They speak the language and love the            along the way. These local guides know the best          travelling solo using the Japan Rail Pass. You can be
adventure. They are eager to teach you about the             places to eat, drink, shop, and explore. They will       assured of a more exhilarating scenic adventure.
lifestyle, foods, people, and tales of being a ‘foreigner’   educate you on best bits of each town. This local        Our transport services include boat rides, cable cars,
in Japan. These hands-on leaders are ready to assist         information will prove invaluable in helping you plan    private cars and coaches, and not forgetting the super
you 24/7 throughout the duration of your tour.               how to use your free time.                               speedy shinkansen (bullet trains)!

                                                                                                                      This is what makes choosing our Small Group Tours
                                                                                                                      with Unique Japan Tours a memorable lifetime
                                                                                                                      experience.

                                           Te s t i m o n i a l s
                                           We really did have a fantastic time with loads of fun          The holiday was all that we expected - and more. Japan and
                                           and laughs with our fellow travellers and Yuka; as well        the Japanese people/ culture became much less ‘’foreign’’ and
                                           as experiencing a real insight in to Japanese history,         more accessible - mainly thanks to our tour guides. Yuka was
                                           culture and way of life. The tour was brilliantly              a delight, thoughtful, kind and efficient. She put us all at our
                                           organised with so many different experiences packed            ease and helped the tour group to ‘gel’ together. The three local
                                           into the two weeks and Yuka was great with her                 guides were all very knowledgeable and were able to answer all
                                           extremely professional, caring and fun approach.               queries readily. Thank you all very much for your hard work.
                                           (The Harvey Family, UK)                                        (The Davis Family, Northern Ireland)

Email: info@uniquejapantours.com               www.uniquejapantours.com		                                                                                                      5
Japan Discovered
    “ A contrast of traditional and modern Japan, unforgettable experiences
       and visits to some of Japan’s must-see UNESCO World Heritage Sites “

    13 Nights / 14 days
    Is your dream to see Japan’s highlights, some of its culture and off-the-beaten-track locations? Japan Discovered two-week tour is the perfect choice for
    you. Glittering cities, rural towns & villages, history & heritage, gardens & wildlife, local festivals, cultural experiences, and a taste of real local foods;
    just some of the best bits on this trip!

    Tokyo                                                     Nagano & Matsumoto                                          Takayama & Gokayama
    Arrive into either Haneda or Narita International         After breakfast, we board the ‘A zusa’ high-speed           We will spend two nights in the old merchant town of
    Airports on your scheduled flight. Greeted on arrival     express train to Matsumoto to visit one of Japan’s finest   Takayama. Take a step back in time to the Samurai days
    by our local driver and brought directly to your hotel.   samurai castles. Climbing steps will be necessary here.     with our local Takayama guide who will walk & talk you
    That evening, you will meet your group and tour leader    After a five-minute climb to the top, you will feel like    through the history and places of this unforgotten era.
    before heading out to a local restaurant for a welcome    a Shogun Warrior! Alternatively you could explore the       For those who join our April or October tours, you can
    dinner.                                                   beautiful gardens that surround the castle. Tonight         take part in the annual Spring or Autumn Festivals. The
                                                              will be your first introduction to a traditional and
    Your second day will be spent with our local Tokyo                                                                    whole town comes together to parade giant hand-
                                                              typical Japanese hotel known as a ryokan in a small
    guide who will accompany you to places such as the                                                                    crafted colourful floats, street food stalls, and local
                                                              village nearby to Yudanaka Onsen (home of the snow
    world-famous Tsukiji Fish Market, Hamarikyu Garden,       monkeys). Kaiseki dinner & Onsen (hot spring baths)         performances for two full days. Experience of such a rare
    and the traditional neighbourhood of Asakusa! If          are a real treat tonight!                                   local celebration is a real highlight to this trip. Takayama
    traveling on our May or September Japan Discovered                                                                    is particularly popular for its Hida Beef, a similar type to
    dates you can enjoy the seasons Grand Sumo                After breakfast we will visit the snow monkey park. Here    Kobe Beef.
                                                              you can watch the wild monkeys bath in their natural
    Tournament in the downtown area of Ryugoku, home                                                                      Between Kanazawa and Takayama lies the remote
                                                              hot spring bath at the foot of the mountain. From here
    to Tokyo’s Sumo Stadium.                                                                                              historic village of Gokayama, a UNESCO World Heritage
                                                              we take the scenic drive to Takayama. River valleys and
                                                              majestic mountains are at either side, often difficult to   Site. Famous for its rare and rustic four hundred year old
                                                              find when traveling along the bullet train tracks!          gassho zukkuri farmhouses, you will learn how to make

6            Unique Japan Tours 		                                                   IRE +353 (0)1 6787008 / UK +44 (0)20 32392519 / USA +1 (347)-688-3952
Start: Tokyo - Finish Tokyo
                                                                                                                       ROUTE: Tokyo (2) ➞ Nagano, Yudanaka Onsen (1)
                                                                                                                       ➞ Takayama (2) (via Matsumoto) ➞ Kanazawa (1) via
                                                                                                                       Gokayama ➞ Kyoto (3) ➞ Hiroshima & Miyajima
                                                                                                                       Island (1) ➞ Mt. Fuji/Hakone (1) ➞ Tokyo (2)

                                                                                                                                                                             Nagano
                                                                                                                                                                             Yudanaka Onsen
                                                                                                                                                         Kanazawa 4
                                                                                                                                                                               2
                                                                                                                                                             Gokayama
                                                                                                                                                                                              1
                                                                                                                                                                        3 Takayama
                                                                                                                                                                           Matsumoto
                                                                                                                                                                                               7 Tokyo

                                                                                                                                                              5 Kyoto
                                                                                                                                  Miyajima Island
                                                                                                                                         Hiroshima
                                                                                                                                               6

                                                                                                                       Departure Dates:
soba (buckwheat) noodles, washi paper, and meet the         On a much lighter note, we move by local train and         2018: Mar 18, Apr 10, May 11, Sep 07, Oct 05, Nov 26
local farmers. They will perform their traditional Toyama   ferry to Miyajima Island, another UNESCO World             2019: Mar 17, Apr 11, May 12, Sep 08, Oct 06, Nov 24
dance for you over a cup of hot roasted tea sitting         Heritage hot spot! Welcomed by the wild deer of
around the original fire burner.                            Miyajima, tonight’s stay will be another treat at a
                                                            traditional ryokan.                                        Price:
                                                                                                                       Double/Twin (per person):
Kanazawa & Kyoto                                                                                                       € 4,565 £ 3,900 US$ 5,450 AU$ 7,150
Tonight’s rest will be in Kanazawa, also known as ‘Little   Mt. Fuji/Hakone
                                                                                                                       Single Occupancy (Guaranteed own room):
Kyoto’. The following morning, we take a stroll along       On day twelve of your trip, you will start making your     € 5,480 £ 4,600 US$ 6,500 AU$ 8,500
Higashi Chaya, the former geisha and samurai district       way back to the capital Tokyo using the high-speed         (See our small group tours pricing policy on page 27)
before entering one of Japan’s top three gardens,           bullet trains. You will make one final stop in a town
Kenrokuen.                                                  called Hakone, a beautiful national park area around       What’s included?
Three nights are spent in the heart of Japan’s cultural     50 miles west of Tokyo and just to the south of Mt Fuji,
                                                            Japan’s most sacred peak. This area is most famous         • Accommodation: 10 nights in 3 & 4 star Western Hotels, 3
and ancient capital Kyoto. Explore the breathtaking                                                                       nights in traditional Ryokans
temples, gardens, shrines and back streets with our         for getting the best views of Japan’s most sacred and
                                                            iconic mountain Mt Fuji. However, be sure to have your     • Meals: Breakfast daily, 1 lunch, 3 evening meals
local guide. Participate in an authentic tea ceremony in
                                                            camera at the ready. Fuji is notoriously shy and you       • English Speaking tour leader: English/Japanese speaking
a local machi-ya (teahouse). Meet and chat to our local                                                                   assistant throughout your journey
Kyoto maiko (young geisha).                                 do not want to miss that precious photo opportunity!
                                                            Overnight in a traditional ryokan with onsen and           •	A irport Transfers: Arrival & departure airport transfers
You will have the chance to explore the city on a free      dinner.                                                       included to & from Tokyo hotel
day. Your tour leader will assist you plan your route!                                                                 •	Private Tour Guides: Local English speaking tour guides in
                                                            The next day you will arrive back to Tokyo. Enjoy the
                                                                                                                          Tokyo, Takayama, Gokayama, Kyoto, and Hiroshima/Miyajima
                                                            whole day to finish some last minute shopping or              Island
Hiroshima & Miyajima Island                                 sightseeing. Your tour sadly comes to an end on day
Our journey continues west on the shinkansen (bullet)       fourteen after breakfast.                                  •	Entrance Fees: Included into all sights listed on itinerary
train to our next stop, Hiroshima! Japans bullet train                                                                 •	Cultural Experiences: Tokyo Fish Market, Karaoke Bar, Izakaya
offers first class comforts like no other. Our local                                                                      Dining Out, Tea Ceremony in traditional tea house featuring
                                                                                                                          Kyoto geisha, World Heritage Temples and Shrines in Kyoto,
Hiroshima guide will greet us upon arrival. Be prepared                                                                   Bullet train journeys, Japanese Garden, Washi Paper Making,
to listen to the over whelming story of how this humble                                                                   Soba Noodle Making, Local Toyama Dance, Takayama Festival
city has rebuilt itself after the devastating Atomic bomb                                                                 (April & October tours only), Snow Monkey Park, Samurai
of 1948. You can be assured of an emotional mood                                                                          Castle in Matsumoto, Tokyo Sights by Day & Night!! Sumo
while entering the Peace Park and the A-Bomb Dome.                                                                        Tournament Tickets (May & September tours only).

Email: info@uniquejapantours.com               www.uniquejapantours.com		                                                                                                                     7
Hidden Treasures of Japan
    “ A tour created to capture the essence of Japan’s soul, beauty, and heritage ”

    12 Nights / 13 Days
    Immerse yourself in Japan’s ancient past and contrasting present. Visit some of its oldest and most magnificent temples and shrines.
    Enjoy the contrasting Naoshima Island, home to some of Japan’s most innovative and artistic architecture and design. Experience its religious roots first
    hand as you become acquainted with the monks of Koyasan. Glide through the stunning Iya Valley and Ritsurin Garden. The perfect tour for those in
    search of a richer travel experience.

    Ise Shrine & Mikimoto Pearl Island                         Mt Koya & Nara                                              Tokushima & Iya Valley in Shikoku Island
    After three nights among Tokyo’s glittering skyscrapers    From Ise and after a scenic two hour journey, we will       After breakfast, you will sail from Wakayama port to
    and back streets of a downtown era, we begin our           arrive at Mt Koya (Koyasan), a sacred site established      Japan’s fourth largest island, Shikoku. Stopping briefly
    journey in search of Japan’s glorious hidden treasures,    1,200 years ago by Kobo Daishi a religious scholar.         in Tokushima, you can experience ‘Indigo Dying’, a
    travelling by bullet train (shinkansen). Located next      Koyasan was the spiritual centre of Shingon Esoteric        technique, perfected in the tenth century, still used
    to the city of Nagoya, Ise Shrine is Japan’s most sacred   Buddhism and is considered one of the most spiritually      today.
    shrine dating back to the 3rd century. It worships the     rewarding places to visit in the Kansai region. Our local   In the afternoon we venture west into the remote Iya
    sun Goddess Amaterasu and is considered to be the          Koyasan guide will take us on a spiritual walk around       Valley region. This stunning remote setting is centered
    spiritual home of the Japanese and its national religion   this mystical setting. Tonight we will sleep in one of      along the 10km Iya River. It is also known as one of
    Shinto.                                                    Koyasan’s 111 temple lodges. Traditionally, these lodges    the three largest hidden mountain regions in Japan. A
    Japans supreme jewels on Mikimoto Pearl Island were        were used to service the devoted pilgrims who walked        boat ride along the river, crossing the vine bridge, and
    first cultivated in 1893 by Kokichi Mikimoto. Watch        the ‘88 Temples of Shikoku’. The mausoleum of Kobo          overnight stay in superior accommodation with hot
    the Ama Divers (women divers) demonstrate this long        Daishi was the last stop on this pilgrimage, found here     springs included, are just some of the adventures you
    tradition in search for daily treasures                    in Koyasan. If feeling up to it, you can take part in an    will get up to while traveling through Shikoku.
                                                               evening calligraphy session and/or before breakfast an
                                                               early morning ‘chant’ with the monks.

8            Unique Japan Tours 		                                                    IRE +353 (0)1 6787008 / UK +44 (0)20 32392519 / USA +1 (347)-688-3952
Start: Tokyo - Finish Kyoto
                                                                                                                       ROUTE: Tokyo (3) ➞ Ise & Mikimoto Pearl
                                                                                                                       Island (2) ➞ Mt Koya (1) ➞ Tokushima & Iya
                                                                                                                       Valley (2) ➞ Takamatsu (1) & Naoshima ➞
                                                                                                                       Kyoto (Osaka) (3)

                                                                                                                                                                                              1 Tokyo

                                                                                                                                                                     6 Kyoto
                                                                                                                                                                     Osaka
                                                                                                                                            Takamatsu 5                    2
                                                                                                                                                                      3      Ise & Mikimoto
                                                                                                                                           & Naoshima      4                   Pearl Island
                                                                                                                                                      Tokushima      Mt Koya
                                                                                                                                                      & Iya Valley

Takamatsu & Naoshima Island                                Kyoto                                                       Departure Dates:
After two nights in the rural retreat in the Iya Valley,   Your tour will finish up in the ancient capital of Kyoto    2018: Jul 15, Sep 23, Oct 21, Nov 11
you will move north to the port town of Takamatsu.         where we spend three final nights.                          2019: Mar 31, Apr 21, May 26, Jul 07, Sep 01, Nov 17
En route stopping off at Kotohira, a small village most    Kyoto is Japan’s ancient capital and this is reflected in
famous for serving Zanuki Udon Noodles. Unknown            the seventeen sites designation and preserved with          Price:
to many, the oldest Kabuki theatre (Konpira Grand          UNESCO World Heritage. Your local guide will narrate        Double/Twin (per person):
Theatre) opened here in 1836, which we can have a                                                                      € 4,550 £ 3,850 US$ 5,400 AU$ 7,080
                                                           you through the history and cultural heritage of this
sneak view of!                                                                                                         Single Occupancy (Guaranteed own room):
                                                           magnificent city. You will take part in an authentic tea    € 5,200 £ 4,400 US$ 6,180 AU$ 8,100
Before reaching Kyoto, we will island hop from             ceremony, to whet your whistle, in one of Kyoto’s
                                                                                                                       (See our small group tours pricing policy on page 27)
Takamatsu to a small island Naoshima, most famous for      traditional machi-ya (teahouses).
modern architecture and alternative design. The island     We recommend that you arrange your departing
is becoming increasingly popular with visitors from all    flight out of Kansai Airport in Osaka. In any event, we
over the world, but especially by those with an interest   will be happy to assist you in making any alternative
in art.                                                    arrangements to ensure a hassle free departure.             What’s included?
                                                                                                                       •	Accommodation: 7 nights in 3 & 4 star Western Hotels, 1
                                                                                                                          night in a temple lodge, 4 nights in traditional Ryokans
                                                                                                                       • Meals: Breakfast daily, 5 evening meals
                                                                                                                       • English Speaking tour leader: English/Japanese speaking
                                                                                                                          assistant throughout your journey
                                                                                                                       • A irport Transfers: Arrival & departure to & from Tokyo &
                                                                                                                          Kyoto hotel
                                                                                                                       •	Private Tour Guides: Local English speaking tour guides in
                                                                                                                          Tokyo, Ise, Koyasan, Iya Valley, & Kyoto
                                                                                                                       •	Entrance Fees: Included into all sights listed on itinerary
                                                                                                                       •	Cultural Experiences: Tokyo sights by day & night, the Great
                                                                                                                          Ise Shrine, Toyota Car Factory Tour & Museum, Mikimoto
                                                                                                                          Pearl Island visit & Ama Divers Demonstration, Overnight
                                                                                                                          stays in luxurious traditional ryokans with Kaiseki dinners
                                                                                                                          included, Koyasan temple stay, calligraphy and/or meditation
                                                                                                                          with monks, ferry ride to Shikoku, Indigo Dying workshop
                                                                                                                          participation, Iya Valley Boat Ride, Japanese Garden visit,
                                                                                                                          Naoshima Art Island museums, Kyoto World Heritage temples
                                                                                                                          & shrines, & an authentic Kyoto Tea Ceremony

Email: info@uniquejapantours.com              www.uniquejapantours.com		                                                                                                                      9
Ancient Trails of Japan
     “ The perfect choice for an adventurer in search of stunning scenery, mystical trails,
        hot springs and culinary delights “

     13 Nights / 14 Days
     Japan is blessed with some of the most spectacular National Parks in the world, many of which are hidden miles away from the bright lights of Tokyo
     and Osaka. Some of the ancient trails within these National Parks have been crossed for centuries. Thousands of pilgrims from all walks of life including
     retired Emperors and samurai leaders were keen travellers on these trails. Our particular favourites include the Unesco World Heritage ‘Sacred
     Mountains of the Kii Peninsula’, Fuji National Park, and the two samurai villages of Tsumago and Magome.

     Tokyo                                                       Kawaguchiko, Mt Fuji (Fuji National Park)                   Kyoto
     Tokyo is the start and end point to this tour and stands    Five large lakes surround Mount Fuji. Kawaguchiko is        After a relaxing night at the foot of Mt Fuji, we head west
     in stark contrast to the spiritual and old-world feel of    the most easily accessible of the Fuji Five Lakes from      on the bullet train to the ancient capital, Kyoto. This city
     most of your trip. You will spend a full day with a local   Tokyo. The main draw to this area is the amazing views      is one of the most culturally rich cities in Asia. Home to
     guide who will show you the various sights in this          of Mount Fuji. From your ryokan, you can gaze up at its     eight Unesco World Heritage sites, over 1,600 Buddhist
     behemoth of a city. Visit Tokyo Sky Tree and ride 350       near symmetrical form, spending the evening in a hot        temples and 400 Shinto shrines, this ancient city
     meters up into the sky. Enjoy stunning panoramic views      spring bath (onsen) before sitting down to a feast of       showcases the heart and soul of traditional Japan. Kyoto
     of the city skyline. Venture to the famous Tsukiji Fish     Kaiseki cuisine (traditional Japanese meal). We will also   boasts an array of world-class gardens, sacred shrines,
     Market to whet your appetite for sampling the freshest      adventure up to Mt Fuji’s fifth station by bus and do       time-honoured teahouses and mysterious geisha.
     sushi in the world, over lunch later on!                    some easy sightseeing around the Kawaguchiko area.          Kyoto’s charm lies in these details and whether you’re
                                                                                                                             here for three days or three years, the closer you look,
                                                                 For those who join our July tour you have the
                                                                                                                             the more you’ll discover.
                                                                 opportunity to climb this majestic giant (Mt. Fuji) with
                                                                 a local guide. Overnight in a mountain hut (don’t
                                                                 expect luxury) and watch the sun rise from 3,880 above
                                                                 sea level.

10            Unique Japan Tours 		                                                      IRE +353 (0)1 6787008 / UK +44 (0)20 32392519 / USA +1 (347)-688-3952
Start: Tokyo - Finish Tokyo
                                                                                                                           ROUTE: Tokyo (2) ➞ Mt Fuji (1) ➞ Kyoto (3)
                                                                                                                           ➞ Kii Peninsula (Kumano Kodo) (3) ➞
                                                                                                                           Nagoya (1) ➞ Tsumago/Magome (2)
                                                                                                                           ➞ Tokyo (1)

                                                                                                                                                                            Tsumago/Magome
                                                                                                                                                                                  7          8
                                                                                                                                                                                                 1 Tokyo
                                                                                                                                                                                     2
                                                                                                                                                             Kyoto 3            6 Mt. Fuji
                                                                                                                                                                                Nagoya

                                                                                                                                                                        5
                                                                                                                                                          Tanabe 4     Kii Katsura

Kumano Kodo,                                                 Nagoya, Tsumago & Magome                                      Departure Dates:
‘Sacred Mountains of the Kii Peninsula’                                                                                    2018: Jul 21, Sep 15, Nov 24
                                                             After three traditional nights stay in Kumano Kodo, we
Located in the magnificent Kii Peninsula, three hours        make a one night stop in Nagoya, Japan’s third largest        2019: Apr 13, Sep 07, Nov 02
south of Kyoto, is the breathtaking Kumano Kodo              city. Your tour leader will take you to a local restaurant/
region. This is one of Japan’s oldest sacred sites and       bar (izakaya) to sample tebasaki (marinated chicken           Price:
pilgrimage routes of more than one thousand years.           wings) and show you some of the cities nightlife hot          Double/Twin (per person):
Blessed with lush mountains, awe inspiring waterfalls,       spots.                                                        € 4,450 £ 3,800 US$ 5,300 AU$ 6,950
a rugged coastline, soothing hot springs, and rich                                                                         Single Occupancy (Guaranteed own room):
traditional culture, Kumano Kodo is sure to take your        After breakfast, you will have the chance to visit a          € 5,050 £ 4,300 US$ 6,000 AU$ 7,900
breath away. Accompanied by our local Kumano guide,          samurai castle in Nagoya. That same afternoon, we             (See our small group tours pricing policy on page 27)
using chartered vehicles, river boats and on foot, we will   take a two-hour train ride north to Nagano prefecture,
spend four incredible days discovering Japans spiritual      disembarking in Tsumago. This beautifully preserved
roots and mysterious mountains. This trail will lead us      samurai postal town was once used as the main road            What’s included?
to the Three Grand Shrines; Kumano Hongu Taisha,             between Edo (now Tokyo) and Kyoto. Its neighbouring           • Accommodation: 7 nights in standard hotels (3*) and 6
Kumano Hayatama Taisha, and Kumano Nachi Taisha.             village Magome has also been preserved to its original           nights in traditional ryokans & minshikus
On our November tour, you can experience a soak in an        character. Both villages have a rich history, displaying      • Meals: Breakfast daily, 1 lunch, 5 evening meals
outdoor hot spring river onsen at Kawayu Onsen.              an untarnished view of a more traditional Japan. On our       • English Speaking tour leader: English/Japanese speaking
                                                             second day in Tsumago, some (or all) of us will walk             assistant throughout your journey
                                                             the eight-kilometer trail from Tsumago to Magome.             •	A irport Transfers: Arrival & departure to & from
                                                             For those who prefer the easy option, a bus service              Tokyo hotel
                                                             connects both villages.                                       •	Private Tour Guides: Local English speaking tour guides in
                                                                                                                              Tokyo, Kyoto, & Kumano Kodo
                                                             Your tour ends in Tokyo on Day Fourteen. If you have          •	Entrance Fees: Included into all sights listed on itinerary
                                                             time to extend your trip, we recommend you stay one
                                                                                                                           •	Cultural Experiences: Tokyo sights by day & night, Kyoto
                                                             or two more nights in Tokyo, which can be arranged by            Tea Ceremony, Geisha Meet & Greet, World Heritage
                                                             our team.                                                        Temples and Shrines, bullet train journeys, garden visits,
                                                                                                                              4 day rural journey through the World Heritage ‘Sacred
                                                                                                                              Mountains of the Kii Peninsula’, meeting locals, river boat
                                                                                                                              cruise, Samurai Castle visit, Tsumago to Magome light
                                                                                                                              mountain trek (optional), Mt Fuji, ryokan stays, hot spring
                                                                                                                              baths, and much more.

Email: info@uniquejapantours.com               www.uniquejapantours.com		                                                                                                                    11
Gardens & Galleries of Japan
     “ A deluxe tour steeped in horticultural richness, spiritual zen and culture preserved at various UNESCO World Heritage
       Sites & Museums, with visits to award winning art galleries “

     11 Nights / 12 Days
     Gardens & Galleries of Japan is a once in a lifetime tour taking you to the finest Japanese Gardens and Award Winning Art Galleries. You will
     experience not only the incredible beauty of these gardens but also the stunning natural landscapes that inform their design. Our award-winning
     Japanese Garden Expert will accompany you throughout explaining the concepts and execution of the different styles of Japanese Gardens.

     You will visit gardens in Tokyo, Kamakura,           Tokyo & Kamakura
     Kanazawa, Kyoto, and Shimane that best exemplify     Get ready to open your eyes to the worlds busiest           Kamakura is a charming coastal town, once the capital
     the three main types of Japanese gardens: tea        yet organised cities in the world, Tokyo! Hamariyku         of Japan between 1185 and 1333, a turbulent and
     gardens, sand & stone gardens, and promenade         Garden, nestled in the heart of the skyscraper skyline,     bloody time in its history. Today Kamakura is a haven
     gardens. These include Kenrokuen, one of the         will be your first garden visit. A walk through this        of tranquillity and is home to many secluded temples
     Three Great Gardens of Japan, and the Adachi Art     magnificent metropolitan garden can only be described       and shrines. These are hidden gems located away from
     Museum Garden which has been crowned the best        as enchanting. Nearby you will step upon the hustle         the main tourist trail. Engakuji is one of the leading Zen
                                                          and bustle of the worlds largest fish market, Tsukiji, an   temples in Japan, built into the slopes of forested hills
     Japanese landscape garden for twelve years running
                                                          experience you won’t forget either! Next you will visit     surrounded by maple trees, a truly stunning setting.
     by the Journal of Japanese Gardens.                                                                              Enjoy the serenity of this charming and holistic location.
                                                          Asakusa Temple, Tokyo’s oldest and most important
                                                          temple. From Asakusa you will continue on to one of
                                                          the most popular shrines in all of Japan, Meiji Jingu,
                                                          cloistered away at the centre of an evergreen forest of
                                                          120,000 trees of 365 different species.

12           Unique Japan Tours 		                                               IRE +353 (0)1 6787008 / UK +44 (0)20 32392519 / USA +1 (347)-688-3952
Start: Tokyo - Finish Tokyo
                                                                                                                        ROUTE: Tokyo & Kamakura (3) ➞ Kanazawa (1)
                                                                                                                        ➞ Kyoto (Hiroshima & Miyajima, Nara) (3) ➞
                                                                                                                        Matsue (2)    ➞ Tokyo (2)
                                                                                                                        Seasonal Highlights:
                                                                                                                        March: Cherry blossom viewing
                                                                                                                        May: Peony & Water Iris viewing
                                                                                                                        Sept: Red spider lily viewing
                                                                                                                        Nov: Amazing Autumn Colours
                                                                                                                        and Evening Illumination
                                                                                                                                                                   2 Kanazawa

                                                                                                                                                                                1
                                                                                                                                                                                    5 Tokyo
                                                                                                                                        Matsue   4
                                                                                                                                                            3 Kyoto

Kenrokuen Garden (Kanazawa)                                                                                             Departure Dates:
Kanazawa, just a 3 hour bullet train ride from Tokyo,       Our Japanese Garden Expert will take you through            2018: Mar 18, May 19, Sept 24, Nov 12
is home to one of The Three Great Gardens of Japan,         both Saiho-ji explaining the significance of the garden’s   2019: Mar 31, May 12, Sept 24, Nov 12
Kenrokuen. The name Kenroku-en means “garden                features and how it exemplifies the zen-style of Japanese
combining six characteristics” and is rooted in the         gardens. You will also visit Arashiyama, famous for the
                                                            thousands of bamboo trees lined up a light pathway next
                                                                                                                        Price:
idea that it serves the six aspects considered most
                                                            to the river.                                               Double/Twin (per person):
important in creating the ideal garden. These aspects                                                                   € 4,550 £ 3,850 US$ 5,400 AU$ 7,080
are: spaciousness, serenity, venerability, scenic views,
                                                                                                                        Single Occupancy (Guaranteed own room):
subtle design, and coolness. Kenrokuen is designed
                                                            Adachi Museum of Art Japanese Gardens                       € 5,150 £ 4,300 US$ 5,990 AU$ 7,850
as a walking garden with roughly 8,750 trees and 183
                                                            (Matsue)                                                    (See our small group tours pricing policy on page 27)
species of plants in total. A visit to Kenrokuen is every
garden enthusiast’s dream. You can also opt to visit the Matsue, located in rural Shimane, is Japan’s best kept
21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, next to the     secret, known as the birthplace of Japan and the home
Garden for some quirky designs and pieces.               of the gods. You will visit the stunning number one
                                                         ranked Adachi Museum of Art Japanese Gardens in                What’s included?
                                                         Yasugi. Here at Adachi you will have the chance to             •	Accommodation: 9 nights in 4 & 5 star Western Hotels, 2 nights
Moss Garden & Bamboo Forest Grove                        experience traditional tea ceremony in the magical                 in traditional Ryokans
(Kyoto)                                                  environs of the Juryu-an Garden Tea House. There are           • Meals: Breakfast daily, 3 evening meals
Oozing with tradition, Kyoto is the ultimate destination only twelve original castle structures remaining in Japan      •	English Speaking tour leader: English/Japanese-speaking
for anybody who wants to soak up time-honoured           and Matsue Castle is one of the finest examples of these           garden expert throughout
Japanese culture. Home to 17 UNESCO World Heritage       Edo Period feudal strongholds having survived for over         •	A irport Transfers: Arrival & departure to & from Tokyo hotel
sites, over 1,600 Buddhist temples and 400 Shinto        400 years. In the evening you will enjoy two nights stay       •	Private Tour Guides: Local English speaking tour guides in
shrines, this ancient city showcases the heart and soul  in a luxurious ryokan with sumptuous kaiseki dinner &              Tokyo, Kamakura, Kanazawa, Kyoto, and Matsue
of traditional Japan. Saihõ-ji is a Zen Buddhist temple  soothing onsen (hot springs), a true highlight to end          •	Entrance fees: Included into all sights listed on itinerary
famed for its moss garden. Acclaimed by many as Kyoto’s your tour. On your way back to Tokyo you will stop off          •	Cultural Experiences: Tokyo city sightseeing, Izakaya
most beautiful garden, it is a registered UNESCO World   at Japan’s oldest shrine, also a Unesco World Heritage,            Dining Out with local tour leader, ‘21st Century Museum of
Heritage Site as part of the “Historic Monuments of      Izumo Taisha Grand Shrine. Take your time to enjoy this            Contemporary Art’ in Kanazawa, Kenrokuen Garden, World
Ancient Kyoto”.                                          special experience before you bid farewell to Shimane              Heritage Temples and Shrines in Kyoto, Bullet train journeys,
                                                         and return to Tokyo by airplane.                                   multiple award winning Japanese Garden visits, Samurai Castle
                                                                                                                            & Authentic Tea Ceremony in Matsue, Adachi Museum of Art,
                                                                                                                            Izumo Taisha Shrine, Ikebana ‘flower arranging’ Workshop,
                                                                                                                            calligraphy or meditation (optional) at Saihoji.

Email: info@uniquejapantours.com               www.uniquejapantours.com		                                                                                                       13
Journey to the East
     “ A week long discovery to the truly unknown and hidden parts of Eastern Hokkaido,
        featuring Sapporo Snow Festival, Red Crowned Crane Sanctuary, & Asahikawa Winter Festival “

     7 Nights / 8 days
     Hokkaido’s unspoilt natural beauty makes it a haven for outdoor lovers and nature enthusiasts. Among its vast national parks and lakes you will come
     across an abundance of wildlife. Its most famous includes the symbolic red crowned crane, wild bear, red fox, and giant eagles. Enjoy some coastal
     explorations in search for dolphins, whales and sea lions. Visit lakes set in volcano calderas. Learn about the indigenous Ainu people. Relax in open-
     air hot spring baths. Savour on Japan’s freshest and tastiest seafood and culinary treats. These are just some of the encounters you can expect on this
     incredible journey through Eastern Hokkaido.

     Sapporo Snow Festival                                       Kushiro & Red Crowned Cranes
     Journey to the East begins in Tokyo’s Haneda Airport.       After two nights in Sapporo, we take an express train for     endured tough times. It was only sixty years ago that
     From here we take a short flight up to Hokkaido’s           three hours east to Kushiro. Kushiro is well known as         their numbers dwindled to such low levels that they
     capital city Sapporo. Experience one of the largest snow    “the town of mist,” facing the Pacific Ocean. The marine      faced the threat of extinction. Their protection and
     festivals in the world where giant snow sculptures,         products industry of Kushiro has flourished since the         repopulation is a great success story of 21st century
     visited by some two million people every year, line the     early 20th century. The long and narrow city centred on       conservation in Japan.
     streets of Sapporo day and night, waiting to wow you        Kushiro Port still retains many features of this century.     The Setsuri-gawa River and Tsurui Ito Tancho Sanctuary
     with their enormous impact and street festival feeling!     Kushiro Tancho Nature Park is known as the site of            are the best places to view these birds. Rise early and
     On your second day in Sapporo, you can enjoy free           the first successful artificial breeding of Tancho cranes     seize this once in a lifetime opportunity to take in a
     time. Use this time to take a day trip out to Otaru, a      (Red crowned cranes), which are designated as special         spectacular northern sunrise in the company of the
     unique city famous for its glass industry and artisan       natural monuments.                                            majestic Tancho Cranes.
     trades people. It is also known for serving some of         The red-crowned crane, or ‘Tancho’ in Japanese, is an
     the freshest seafood in the whole of Japan. Don’t be        iconic creature and a symbol of good fortune, long life
     afraid to try the giant King Crab caught fresh from local   and loyalty. It is one of the largest east Asian cranes and
     shores.                                                     one of the rarest cranes in the world. These birds - once
                                                                 revered and widespread throughout Japan - have

14            Unique Japan Tours 		                                                      IRE +353 (0)1 6787008 / UK +44 (0)20 32392519 / USA +1 (347)-688-3952
Start: Tokyo - Finish Tokyo or Osaka
                                                                                                                                                                                      Abashiri   5
                                                                                                                        ROUTE: Tokyo      ➞ Sapporo (2)                   Asahikawa
                                                                                                                                                                                      6 Lake Akan
                                                                                                                        ➞ Kushiro (1) ➞ Lake Akan (1)                                         4
                                                                                                                                                                                                3
                                                                                                                        ➞ Abashiri (2) ➞ Asahikawa (1)                            2
                                                                                                                                                                                           Kushiro
                                                                                                                                                                              Sapporo
                                                                                                                           ➞ Tokyo

                                                                                                                                                                      1       Tokyo
                                                                                                                                                                          7
                                                                                                                                                 Osaka

Lake Akan & Abashiri                                        Asahikawa Winter Festival                                   Departure Dates:
Lake Akan is a beautiful crater lake in Akan National       Our last night will be in Asahikawa, just on time           2018: Feb 5 - 12
Park. It is home to marimo, a rare algae species that       for their Winter Festival. This week long festival is       2019: Feb 4 - 11
forms itself into beautiful green balls. Left alone for a   Hokkaido’s second largest. We will enjoy our final night
few centuries, Lake Akan’s marimo can reach the size of     in Asahikawa before making our way back to Tokyo the        Price:
soccer balls. The algae have been designated a National     next morning.
                                                                                                                        Double/Twin (per person):
Special Natural Monument. We will stay overnight in a
                                                                                                                        € 3,250 £ 2,750 US$ 3,865 AU$ 5,000
ryokan at Lake Akan, visiting the Ainu Village. Meet the    Winter Sports Extension
local Ainu people, enjoying their evening performance                                                                   Single Occupancy (Guaranteed own room):
                                                            If you are a fan of winter sports, we highly recommend      € 3,650 £ 3,100 US$ 4,365 AU$ 5,750
in the local hall.
                                                            you spend a few extra days at one of Hokkaido’s world       (See our small group tours pricing policy on page 27)
Nearby Abashiri is a city of 40,000 people, famous for      class ski resorts. Niseko, Rusutsu, or Furano are the top
its drift ice, prison museum, and Lake Tofutsu. Abashiri    three resorts in Hokkaido, definitely worth a try! Our
Prison was built in the late nineteenth century to hold     team would be happy to arrange.
especially dangerous criminals. The Abashiri Prison                                                                     What’s included?
Museum provides a fascinating insight into the hard lives
                                                                                                                        •	Accommodation: 5 nights in standard hotels (3*) and 2 nights
and difficult daily conditions that inmates faced.                                                                          in traditional ryokans with hot springs
                                                                                                                        • Meals: Breakfast daily, 2 lunches, 2 evening meals
                                                                                                                        •	Tour leader: English/Japanese speaking tour leader
                                                                                                                            throughout
                                                                                                                        •	Transfers: Return internal flights to/from Tokyo’s Haneda
                                                                                                                            Airport and Hokkaido; Chartered vehicles & express train
                                                                                                                            journeys in Eastern Hokkaido
                                                                                                                        •	Private Tour Guides: Local English speaking tour guides in
                                                                                                                            Sapporo, Kushiro, & Asahikawa
                                                                                                                        •	Entrance fees: Included into all sights listed on itinerary
                                                                                                                        •	Cultural Activities / Experiences: Sapporo Snow Festival &
                                                                                                                            sightseeing, red crowned crane sanctuary and viewing spot,
                                                                                                                            Marimo boat ride at Lake Akan, overnight stays in traditional
                                                                                                                            ryokans, open-air hot spring baths, Ainu culture Show, drift ice
                                                                                                                            boat cruise (subject to weather), Abashiri prison, Asahikawa
                                                                                                                            Winter Festival & sightseeing, amazing scenic drives.

Email: info@uniquejapantours.com              www.uniquejapantours.com		                                                                                                                  15
Japan Rugby 2019
     Many dream of traveling to Japan at some stage in their life.                              Unique Japan Tours are extremely excited to help tailor and
     Like many dream of supporting their National team at an                                    plan your tour around your own team dates & matches. Our
     International sporting tournament.                                                         tours and plans are not exclusive to Team England, Scotland,
                                                                                                Wales or Ireland. So be sure to contact our dedication Rugby
     In September 2019, over six weeks, Japan will host the world’s                             Team today: rugby2019@uniquejapantours.com for some
     3rd largest sporting event across the entire country. For the                              up-to-date options.
     first time since the 2002 Soccer World Cup, Japan will be the
     centre of attention for avid rugby fans around the world.

                                                                                                                                                  Hanazono Rugby Stadium

     World’s 3rd largest
     sporting event
                                                                                                   Kobe Misaki Stadium
     48 Rugby matches
     7 Week-long tournament
     20 Countries competing for glory
     12 official match stadiums in Japan
     1st-Time tournament will be held in Asia
                                                                                               Fukuoka Hakatanomori Stadium

       Contact our dedicated Japan Rugby Specialists for more details:
            Email: rugby2019@uniquejapantours.com
                  Team Ireland TEL: 01-6787008
         Team England, Scotland, Wales TEL: 020 3239 2519

                                                                         Kumamoto Stadium              Oita Stadium           City of Toyota Stadium          Shizuoka Stadium Ecopa

16             Unique Japan Tours 		                                                        IRE +353 (0)1 6787008 / UK +44 (0)20 32392519 / USA +1 (347)-688-3952
POOL A                            POOL B                             POOL C                             POOL D
                                              Ireland                     New Zealand                              England                           Australia
                                             Scotland                      South Africa                             France                            Wales
                                               Japan                          Italy                               Argentina                          Georgia
                                            Europe 1                         Africa 1                                USA                               Fiji
                                        PLAY-OFF WINNER                REPECHAGE WINNER                             Tonga                           Americas 2
           Sapporo Dome
                                            Fri 20 Sept - 19:45               Sat 21 Sept - 18:45               Sat 21 Sept - 16:15                Sat 21 Sept - 13:45
                                              Tokyo Stadium            International Stadium Yokohama             Tokyo Stadium                     Sapporo Dome
                                           Japan v Europe 1            New Zealand v South Africa              France v Argentina                   Australia v Fiji
                                          Sun 22 Sept - 16:45               Sun 22 Sept - 14:15                 Sun 22 Sept - 19:15               Mon 23 Sept - 19:15
                                    International Stadium Yokohama        Hanazono Rugby Stadium                  Sapporo Dome                   City of Toyota Stadium
                                           Ireland v Scotland                 Italy v Africa 1                  England v Tonga                    Wales v Georgia
                                          Tues 24 Sept - 19:15             Thurs 26 Sept - 16:45               Thurs 26 Sept - 19:45               Wed 25 Sept - 14:15
                                        Kumagaya Rugby Stadium         Fukuoka Hakatanomori Stadium            Kobe Misaki Stadium         Kamaishi Recovery Memorial Stadium
                                     Europe 1 v Play-off winner          Italy v Repechage winner                England v USA                     Fiji v Americas 2
                                            Sat 28 Sept - 16:15              Sat 28 Sept - 18:45                Sat 28 Sept - 13:45               Sun 29 Sept - 14:15
                                         Shizuoka Stadium Ecopa            City of Toyota Stadium            Hanazono Rugby Stadium             Kumagaya Rugby Stadium
                                            Japan v Ireland               South Africa v Africa 1              Argentina v Tonga                 Georgia v Americas 2
                                           Mon 30 Sept - 19:15               Wed 02 Oct - 19:15                Wed 02 Oct - 16:45                  Sun 29 Sept - 16:45
                                           Kobe Misaki Stadium                 Oita Stadium               Fukuoka Hakatanomori Stadium               Tokyo Stadium
                                      Scotland v Play-off winner     New Zealand v Repechage winner               France v USA                     Australia v Wales
         Kamaishi Recovery                 Thurs 03 Oct - 19:15               Fri 04 Oct - 18:45
         Memorial Stadium
                                                                                                                Sat 05 Oct - 17:00                Thurs 03 Oct - 14:15
                                           Kobe Misaki Stadium            Shizuoka Stadium Ecopa                 Tokyo Stadium                  Hanazono Rugby Stadium
                                          Ireland v Europe 1                South Africa v Italy              England v Argentina                    Georgia v Fiji
                                            Sat 05 Oct - 19:30               Sun 06 Oct - 13:45                Sun 06 Oct - 16:45                   Sat 05 Oct - 14:15
                                          City of Toyota Stadium               Tokyo Stadium                   Kumamoto Stadium                       Oita Stadium
                                        Japan v Play-off winner           New Zealand v Africa 1                 France v Tonga                 Australia v Americas 2
                                            Wed 09 Oct - 16:15               Tues 08 Oct - 19:15               Wed 09 Oct - 13:45                  Wed 09 Oct - 18:45
                                         Shizuoka Stadium Ecopa             Kobe Misaki Stadium              Kumagaya Rugby Stadium                  Oita Stadium
                                          Scotland v Europe 1        South Africa v Repechage winner            Argentina v USA                       Wales v Fiji
           Tokyo Stadium
                                          Sat 12 Oct - 19:45                 Sat 12 Oct - 13:45                  Sat 12 Oct - 17:15                 Fri 11 Oct - 19:15
                                    Fukuoka Hakatanomori Stadium           City of Toyota Stadium         International Stadium Yokohama        Shizuoka Stadium Ecopa
                                        Ireland v Play-off winner          New Zealand v Italy                  England v France                  Australia v Georgia
                                           Sun 13 Oct - 19:45                 Sun 13 Oct - 12:15                Sun 13 Oct - 14:45                 Sun 13 Oct - 17:15
                                    International Stadium Yokohama   Kamaishi Recovery Memorial Stadium      Hanazono Rugby Stadium                Kumamoto Stadium
                                            Japan v Scotland           Africa 1 v Repechage winner                USA v Tonga                     Wales v Americas 2

                                    QUARTER-FINAL 1                   QUARTER-FINAL 2                     QUARTER-FINAL 3                   QUARTER-FINAL 4
                                            Sat 19 Oct - 16:15               Sat 19 Oct - 19:15                 Sun 20 Oct - 16:15                 Sun 20 Oct - 19:15
   International Stadium Yokohama
                                              Oita Stadium                    Tokyo Stadium                       Oita Stadium                       Tokyo Stadium
                                         Winner Pool C                     Winner Pool B                      Winner Pool D                      Winner Pool A
                                        Runner Up Pool D                  Runner Up Pool A                   Runner Up Pool C                   Runner Up Pool B

                                         SEMI-FINAL 1                     SEMI-FINAL 2                      BRONZE FINAL                               FINAL
                                           Sat 26 Oct - 17:00                Sun 27 Oct - 18:00                 Fri 01 Nov - 18:00                 Sat 02 Nov - 18:00
                                    International Stadium Yokohama    International Stadium Yokohama             Tokyo Stadium              International Stadium Yokohama
                                            Winner QF1                        Winner QF3                       Runner Up SF1                        Winner SF1
     Kumagaya Rugby Stadium
                                            Winner QF2                        Winner QF4                       Runner Up SF2                        Winner SF2

Email: rugby2019@uniquejapantours.com       www.uniquejapantours.com		                                                                                                    17
Team Ireland Rugby Tour 2019
     22 Nights / 23 days
     The culmination of more than 10 years of experience in planning thousands of group tours to Japan, this tour is quite simply the ultimate Japan tour
     to coincide with the rugby tournament in 2019. This is a truly once in a lifetime chance to experience a world class sports tournament and also see
     all that Japan has to offer.

     Tokyo                                                        Shizuoka                                                    Osaka
     Everything that you have heard about Tokyo is true –         Ride the bullet train back up north to Shizuoka, once       Osaka is Japan’s second largest city and an extremely
     and it is not. For if ever there was a city that you could   again nearby Mt Fuji. Ireland take on tournament hosts      vibrant and lively place to stay. Known as “the nation’s
     not confine to one definition, this would be it. The         in what will be one of the most memorable matches           kitchen”, it’s often said to be the culinary capital of Japan.
     never-ending hustle and bustle of the city creates an        for any Irish fan during the entire tournament. The         After dark Osaka really comes alive, and a walk through
     energy that is quite contagious. One minute you may          local support will no doubt be overwhelming, but at all     the bright lights of the Namba district is a great way to
     be elevated 450 metres above ground overlooking              times friendly and respectful and the pre-match & post-     soak up the atmosphere, and with literally thousands
     Tokyo’s sprawling metropolis, the next you might be          match banter with the locals will be memorable.             of restaurants, bars and entertainment spots to choose
     cheering on two sumo wrestlers tackle each other in                                                                      from, the city is perfect for a big night out, some hearty
     the sumo stadium. Despite the presence of people             Kobe City                                                   local food and the chance to let your hair down. Osaka
     and stores everywhere, there is an order that allows                                                                     really is one of Japan’s truly all action cities and a stay
     things to work efficiently, seemingly against the odds.      Kobe is a city on Osaka Bay; known for its signature
                                                                  marbled beef and scenic setting of mountains framing        here is a chance to experience what life in modern day
     Tradition and technology stand side by side in this city                                                                 urban Japan is really like.
     that can be whatever you want to make of it.                 the harbour. The Ikuta Shrine, dating to the 3rd century,
                                                                  is among Japan’s oldest Shinto shrines. Antique cable
                                                                  cars connect Kobe to Mt. Rokko, which offers panoramic      Hiroshima
     Hakone                                                       views over the port.                                        Despite its tragic past, it is now a bustling and vibrant
     Escape from the mega-city that is Tokyo and rub                                                                          city which has risen from the ashes. Of course,
     shoulders with Japan’s elite at a popular weekend resort     Kyoto                                                       the A-bomb museum and peace park are must see
     town, rich with hotel springs and boasting great views                                                                   attractions in the city. But the city has so much more to
     of Mt Fuji. Experience an authentic Japanese ryokan          After the excitement of watching another Irish match
                                                                  in Kobe, you will travel to Kyoto to decompress and         offer include a fine castle, beautiful gardens, tea-houses,
     stay and savour a “kaiseki” traditional dinner.                                                                          local food delicacies etc.
                                                                  further relax in Japan’s ancient capital and home to
                                                                  over 2,000 temples and shrines. During your specially
     Nagano                                                       curated guided tour, see the best of what Kyoto has to      Miyajima Island
     Nagano is a scenic and large rural prefecture that lies      offer the modern traveller.                                 Miyajima Island is one of Japan’s most loved places.
     in the Japanese Alps. A popular weekend escape from                                                                      The island is perhaps best known for the giant red torii
     the rush of Tokyo, it has one very famous and peculiar                                                                   gate of Itsukushima Shrine which appears to be floating
     attraction. Japanese Macaque monkeys that inhabit                                                                        in the sea. A cable car takes you to fantastic views across
     a completely natural outdoor hot spring spa to keep                                                                      the Inland Sea and there are many pleasant walks on
     warm in winter in particular. Its such fun to visit with                                                                 Miyajima among the temples and along the bustling
     the monkeys and take some photos of them relaxing.                                                                       shopping street. Deer roam freely, often seeking treats
                                                                                                                              from tourists, so get your cameras ready!

18             Unique Japan Tours 		                                                     IRE +353 (0)1 6787008 / UK +44 (0)20 32392519 / USA +1 (347)-688-3952
Start: Tokyo - Finish Tokyo
ROUTE: Tokyo (4) ➞ Hakone (1) ➞ Nagano (1) ➞
Shizuoka (2) ➞ Kyoto (4) ➞ Kobe (2) ➞ Osaka (2) ➞
Hiroshima (2) ➞ Fukuoka (3) ➞ Tokyo (1)
Tour Dates:
Saturday 21st September to Sunday 13th October 2019
Matches:
Ireland v Scotland         Sun 22 Sept - 16:45
                            International Stadium Yokohama
Japan v Ireland	Sat 28 Sept - 16:15
                            Shizuoka Stadium Ecopa
                                                                             Ireland v Europe 1                                  Kyoto                                                   Tokyo
Ireland v Europe 1	Thurs 03 Oct - 19:15                                     Thurs 03 Oct - 19:15
                                                                                                                                                                                    The World’s Capital
                                                                             Kobe Misaki Stadium                           Ancient Capital City
                            Kobe Misaki Stadium
Ireland v Play-off winner	Sat 12 Oct - 19:45
                            Fukuoka Hakatanomori Stadium

                                                                                 Hiroshima
                                                                              & Miyajima Island                                             4
                                                                                                                                                                                    Ireland v Scotland
Fukuoka                                                                                                                                                             2     1           Sun 22 Sept - 16:45
                                                                                                                                                                3              International Stadium Yokohama
Fukuoka is a modern city on the up and is fast gaining                                                                  6 7                       5
a reputation for its culture, entertainment and future                                                  9
thinking. Fukuoka boasts the country’s largest hotel,                                                                          8
                                                           .
longest bar, biggest cinema complex and the most                                              10
advanced baseball stadium and the stunning architecture
of “Canal City” is well worth a few hours exploration.
This is a complex containing a hotel, cinemas, and
                                                                                                                                                                                         Hakone
shopping built around a semi-circular strip of water.                                                                                                                                Views of Mt. Fuji
Try the local delicacy at your own risk! Fugu or blow fish
is the poisonous fish that is served throughout Japan but
is most delicious and cheapest in this area.

  Contact our dedicated Japan Rugby Specialists for more details:
        Email: rugby2019@uniquejapantours.com
              Team Ireland TEL: 01-6787008                                Ireland v Play-off winner
                                                                                                                 Osaka                                  Japan v Ireland                Nagano
     Team England, Scotland, Wales TEL: 020 3239 2519                          Sat 12 Oct - 19:45
                                                                                                            Culinary Capital                             Sat 28 Sept - 16:15      Snow Monkey Onsen
                                                                         Fukuoka Hakatanomori Stadium                                                 Shizuoka Stadium Ecopa

Email: rugby2019@uniquejapantours.com                               www.uniquejapantours.com		                                                                                                                  19
Team Ireland Rugby Tour 2019
     9 Nights / 10 Days
     The first two matches for Ireland are perhaps the choice matches for traveling fans. Ireland’s opening game will be played in Japan’s largest stadium
     in Yokohama, sure to be a popular spot for the Japanese fans. Yokohama stadium is also home to the overall final game. Ireland’s second game will
     be an intimate affair playing against Japan, in Shizuoka, the home prefecture of Mt Fuji.

     Tokyo                                                      Shizuoka                                                       Hiroshima & Miyajima Island (day trip)
     Your tour begins in Tokyo, the largest city in the world. A lesser known city, and one that is off the beaten             After Kyoto, head to Hiroshima, a city that has
     There is no shortage of photographic opportunities        tourist trail will provide some of your most magical            rebounded since the atomic bombing over seventy
     here, from peaceful shrines to the vibrant youth culture. memories from this tour. Ireland take on the                    years ago. This tragic moment is well documented
     With a guide and on your own, you see what makes this tournament hosts Japan and the atmosphere with Irish                in the Peace Memorial Park and adjoining museum.
     city one of the most talked about places on Earth         fans and Japanese fans interacting on the streets before        Afterwards, you will take a ferry to Miyajima, an island
                                                               and after the game is sure to be as much fun as the             famed for its ‘floating’ torii gate, fresh seafood, and
     Hakone                                                    game itself!                                                    tranquil nature. The island produces one of Japan’s
                                                                                                                               most famous treats, Momiji (maple pastries). A sweet
     With the world famous Mt. Fuji in the background,                                                                         smell fills the streets as you pass by the dozens of
     Hakone is one of the most scenic spots in all of Japan.    Kyoto
                                                                                                                               confectioners.
     Walk among the steaming volcanic rocks in ‘Hell Valley,’   From the foothills of Mt Fuji, you will ride the futuristic
     and sail on Lake Ashi for some rest and relaxation.        bullet train to the ancient city of Kyoto; the birthplace of
     In the evening, fall asleep in a room with spectacular     much of Japan’s culture. Home to innumerable sites, your
     mountain views.                                            expert guide will show you the best of these on a leisurely
                                                                tour of the city. As you travel between the temples and
                                                                bamboo groves, it is easy to lose yourself in Kyoto’s
                                                                natural and manmade wonders.

20            Unique Japan Tours 		                                                      IRE +353 (0)1 6787008 / UK +44 (0)20 32392519 / USA +1 (347)-688-3952
Start: Tokyo - Finish Tokyo
ROUTE: Tokyo (3) ➞ Hakone (1) ➞ Kyoto (3)
➞ Shizuoka (3) ➞ Tokyo (1)
Tour Dates:
September 21st - 30th, 2019
Matches:
Ireland v Scotland
                 Sun 22 Sept - 16:45
                  International Stadium Yokohama
Japan v Ireland	Sat 28 Sept - 16:15
                  Shizuoka Stadium Ecopa
                                                                                                         Kyoto                                                   Tokyo
                                                                                                   Ancient Capital City                                     The World’s Capital

                                                                              Hiroshima
                                                                           & Miyajima Island                                                                Ireland v Scotland
                                                                                                                                            2     1           Sun 22 Sept - 16:45
                                                                                                                                        3              International Stadium Yokohama
                                                                                                        4                 6
                                                                                               5

                                                                                                                                                                 Hakone
                                                                                                                                                             Views of Mt. Fuji

  Contact our dedicated Japan Rugby Specialists for more details:
        Email: rugby2019@uniquejapantours.com
              Team Ireland TEL: 01-6787008                                                                                      Japan v Ireland
     Team England, Scotland, Wales TEL: 020 3239 2519                                                                            Sat 28 Sept - 16:15
                                                                                                                              Shizuoka Stadium Ecopa

Email: rugby2019@uniquejapantours.com                               www.uniquejapantours.com		                                                                                          21
Team England Rugby Tour 2019
     10 Nights / 11 Days
     This eleven day action packed filled tour ensures you see Japan’s Highlights as well as England’s two group matches against the formidable foes
     Argentina and France. Sure to be packed out stadiums for both we recommend you book this one as soon as possible! After the final match in
     Yokohama Stadium, you will hopefully be celebrating England’s passage to the quarter finals.

     Tokyo                                                       Hakone                                                    Kyoto
     Your tour of Japan begins in Tokyo, Japan’s capital and     Hakone is home to Mt. Fuji and rolling hills of densely   Kyoto is Japan’s most dynamic city, a seamless blend
     the largest city in the world. With an expert guide or on   packed trees. In the shadow of the world’s most famous    of past and present. Around every corner is something
     your own, you discover the loveliest gardens, the most      mountain, have a traditional Japanese dinner and soak     unexpected. Kyoto is ancient Japan; home to 1600
     magnificent shrines, and all the excitement that makes      in relaxing onsen baths. The next morning, tour the       temples, 400 Shinto shrines, and 17 UNESCO World
     Tokyo the most futuristic city in the world. While there,   area by ropeway or lake cruise. If the weather is just    Heritage Sites. Yet tradition doesn’t just live on in the
     take advantage of the city’s wide variety of Japanese and   right, you may get the perfect picture of the mountain.   architecture, the heritage is also revealed through
     international cuisine.                                                                                                everything from food markets to calligraphy, and flute
                                                                                                                           recitals to making sweets. While here, you will spend
                                                                                                                           one full day with an expert guide, but will also enjoy
                                                                                                                           ample free time to explore the city at your own pace.

22            Unique Japan Tours 		                                                    IRE +353 (0)1 6787008 / UK +44 (0)20 32392519 / USA +1 (347)-688-3952
Start: Tokyo - Finish Tokyo
ROUTE: Tokyo (3) ➞ Hakone (1) ➞ Kyoto (3)
➞ Hiroshima/Miyajima (full day trip) ➞ Tokyo (3)
Tour Dates:
October 4th to October 14th 2019
Matches:
England v Argentina
                  Sat 5 Oct - 17:00
                   Tokyo Stadium
England v France	Sat 12 Oct - 17:15
                   International Stadium Yokohama
                                                                                  Hiroshima                  Kyoto                                  Tokyo
                                                                               & Miyajima Island       Ancient Capital City                    The World’s Capital

                                                                                                                                             England v Argentina
Hiroshima/Miyajima (day trip)                                                                                                     6   1          Sat 5 Oct - 17:00
                                                                                                                              3       2           Tokyo Stadium
Miyajima and Hiroshima are two places that show very                                                            4
different sides of Japan. In Miyajima, meet friendly deer                                          5
before gazing upon the ‘floating’ torii gate that marks
the bay. Going inland, dine on delectable seafood and
handmade pastries. In Hiroshima, learn about both
the horrors of the atomic bombing and the efforts
Hiroshima has made to not only rebuild but ensure that                                                                                         England v France
                                                                                                                                                  Sat 12 Oct - 17:15
the tragedy in 1945 is never again repeated.                                                                                              International Stadium Yokohama

  Contact our dedicated Japan Rugby Specialists for more details:
        Email: rugby2019@uniquejapantours.com
              Team Ireland TEL: 01-6787008
                                                                                                                                                    Hakone
     Team England, Scotland, Wales TEL: 020 3239 2519                                                                                           Views of Mt. Fuji

Email: rugby2019@uniquejapantours.com                               www.uniquejapantours.com		                                                                             23
Start: Tokyo - Finish Tokyo

     Team Wales
                                                                                                  ROUTE: Tokyo (2) ➞ Nagoya (1) ➞ Kyoto (3)
                                                                                                  ➞ Hiroshima/Miyajima (full day trip) ➞ Hakone (1)
                                                                                                  ➞ Tokyo (3)
                                                                                                  Tour Dates:

     Rugby Tour 2019                                                                              September 21st to October 1st 2019
                                                                                                  Matches:
                                                                                                   Wales v Georgia
                                                                                                   Wed 23 Sept - 19:15
                                                                                                                               

                                                                                                   City of Toyota Stadium
                                                                                                   Australia v Wales
                                                                                                  Sun 29 Septt - 16:45
                                                                                                   Tokyo Stadium                                                        Tokyo

     10 Nights / 11 Days                                                                                                                                           The World’s Capital

     There may be no better time in the past                                                                                                                        Wales v Australia
                                                                                                                                                                    Sun 29 Sept - 16:45
     or in the future to make an 11-day trip                                                                                                                          Tokyo Stadium
     to Japan. Explore some of the most                                                                                                                    1
                                                                                                                                                               6
     popular tourist destinations in the world,                                                                               3
                                                                                                                                                  5
     and watch the Welsh team play against                                                             4                                  2
     Georgia in preparation for them to play                                   Kyoto
     against fearsome southern hemisphere                                Ancient Capital City

     rivals Australia!
                                                                                                                                                                    Wales v Georgia
                                                                                                                                                                    Mon 23 Sept - 19:15
                                                                                                                                                                   City of Toyota Stadium

       Contact our dedicated Japan Rugby Specialists for more details:
                                                                                                                       Hiroshima                  Hakone
            Email: rugby2019@uniquejapantours.com                                                                   & Miyajima Island         Views of Mt. Fuji
                  Team Ireland TEL: 01-6787008
         Team England, Scotland, Wales TEL: 020 3239 2519

24             Unique Japan Tours 		                                                            IRE +353 (0)1 6787008 / UK +44 (0)20 32392519 / USA +1 (347)-688-3952
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