Color of Zen | Autumn Journey Across Japan

Schedule

Sat Nov 05 2022 at 01:00 am to Mon Nov 14 2022 at 05:15 am

Location

Dubai International | Dubai, DU

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If there is anything the Japanese know how to do perfectly, it is to fuse tradition with modernity. Japan needs no introduction, as it is perhaps one of the most emblematic places on this planet, where authenticity is still sacred – be it ancient or modern. Japan is a place where the future entwines with the past – from neon lights and ancient temples, to manga, geishas and samurais. A land of stark contrast, renowned simultaneously for its dangerous natural phenomena and cherry blossoms, unmatched in beauty by the rest of the world. A festival for any traveler’s senses, Japan awakens the soul to maximum expression with the elegant beauty of its temples, laying hidden away from the bustling streets of its metropolises. The idyllic backdrop for an aromatic journey spanning gardens to gastronomy. For centuries, Japan was closed to the world. Until the mid-nineteenth century it did not have much contact with civilisation beyond its borders, as the Japanese were banned from traveling abroad. Isolation meant that when the preservation of native culture and tradition met modernity, they produced an eclectically unique blend of past and present, in a way like no other.
Day 01: ARRIVAL
Welcome to Japan! Today we clear immigration in Tokyo and head to hotel. Following a short briefing, you can choose to either rest or hit Tokyo’s famous nightlife scene.
Day 02: TOKYO
After breakfast we head out to explore Tokyo by train. Following a quick look at the Imperial Palace, we’ll make our way to the Asakusa Temple. Next, a walk down the bustling high-street, perhaps for a spot of shopping, pictures, or mere exploration. Followed by a river cruise from Asakusa to Odaiba. Then you can either continue shopping, or kick-back and enjoy a beach sunset. It’s then back to the hotel to spend the rest of the day at leisure.
Day 03: NAGANO - SNOW MONKEYS
After an early breakfast, we leave our main luggage at reception and head to Tokyo Station to take a 90-minute journey to Nagano on the famous bullet train (Shinkansen), reaching a maximum speed of 260 km/hr in comfort and style. Arriving at Nagano Station, we’ll move to Jigokudani Yaen Koen known as the “Snow Monkey Mountain”. And from there we head to Matsumoto Castle. Moving onto the Daio Wasabi Farm, the largest in Japan. We then grab some local food before more wandering around, ending the day at a hotel in Hirugami Onsen.
Day 04: NAKASENDO TREK
Today, we trek the historic Nakasendo Trail, about 534km from Tokyo. Built in 1694, the Nakasendo Trail has been in use for almost 170 years. Our journey begins with a visit to the famous post-town, Tsumago Village, for brief sightseeing. We then enter a part of the trail for a 9km trek (about 3 hours), ending in the Magome Village. From there we transfer to Kyoto – to witness the Japanese fusion of tradition and modern culture.
Day 05: KYOTO & GEISHAS
Day 06: NARA DEER PARK – MOUNT KOYA – MONKS
Day 07: OSAKA
Today we start with a Buddhist meditation, followed by breakfast. Saying goodbye to the monks we move to the Okunoin Temple, in the sacred place of Kukai – where esoteric Buddhism was born. We then head back to the Danjogaran Temple, to marvel at its gorgeous architecture. And then on to Osaka’s Shinsaibashi Area to sample some local delicacies like Takoyaki and Okonomiyaki. Our last stop will be a photo-op at the famous Dotombori spot, before heading to Kansai Airport for our flight home.
Cost: 6750 AED excl. flights until SEP 26th.
Flights: Emirates, DXB-NRT + KIX-DXB
Level of difficulty: Easy - available for everyone.
Activities: Trekking, boating, sightseeing.
Duration: 7 days
Visas: Most passports receive visa upon arrival
Accommodation & meals: Breakfasts included, accommodation in 3-star hotels, double sharing. Single room 400 USD extra.
Excluded: Visas, insurance, lunches and dinners.
日本でお会いしましょう **
Piotr 050 4848238 / [email protected]
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Where is it happening?

Dubai International, P O Box 2525,Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Event Location & Nearby Stays:

Trekkup Dubai

Host or Publisher Trekkup Dubai

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