Chasing the Cherry Blossoms
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Pre-Departure

Like all Go Learn journeys, the adventure begins at home. We will meet weekly, starting a month before we depart for Japan. Trip leader Mimi Locher will guide us through the history of Japanese architecture and gardens and teach us the basic etiquette and language needed for our trip.

About Japan

Japan is an intriguing mix of traditional and contemporary culture. We will experience the best of the past and present as we explore urban areas and travel to out-of-the-way rural areas. We will visit major cities such as Kyoto, as well as the smaller scenic cities. Each of the places visited features beautiful traditional areas as well as modern city life.

Weather: Central Japan is very pleasant in March. We can expect average temperatures from about 40 degrees F (at night in the mountains) to 70 degrees F (on sunny days). Most days are sunny, but it can rain about 30% of the days. The average relative humidity is about 70%.

Activity Levels and Restrictions

In order to fully explore the cities and towns on our itinerary, we will be walking 5- 8 miles every day. Most city walking is flat on paved surfaces. When visiting gardens and temples, we may be walking on gravel paths or uneven stones or moving up and down long stairs. Be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes! Since we will be waking up early with jet lag, we often will start our days early and continue until sundown. Our exciting itinerary and daily learning adventures will keep you happily exhausted.

Included

• Pre-departure courses in the history of Japanese architecture and gardens, culture, language, and tour logistics
• One lead guide plus assistant for the classroom experience while on the tour
• Small group size to maximize learning, comfort, and flexibility
• 12 nights’ hand-picked accommodation at top-rated and well-located hotels
• Daily breakfast, as well as 16 hand-picked culinary highlight for lunch or dinner
• Entrance fees for scheduled sightseeing activities
• Local guides and experts, including their fees and tips
• Transportation to and from daily destinations and activities
• Comprehensive trip insurance, including sickness and emergency evacuation insurance.

Not included

• Airfare to and from Japan
• Transportation to and from airport
• Meals that are not specifically noted in itinerary
• Cancellation and lost luggage insurance
• Any costs outside of the itinerary

Dates
March 20-April 1, 2020
Tokyo Extension
April 1- April 5 2020

Size
Trip is limited to 20 participants

Cost
Double occupancy: $5,950 Single occupancy: $6,500

Tokyo Extension:
Double Occupancy: TBD
Single Occupancy: TBD

See Terms for payment and cancellation details.

Helpful Links

http://www.fodors.com/language/japanese/ - Online introduction to 150 Japanese phrases useful when traveling.
http://www.japantimes.co.jp/ - The Japan Times Online is the web presence of Japan’s largest English-language newspaper.
http://www.jnto.go.jp/eng/ - The website of the Japan National Tourism Organization features descriptions of sights of interest, as well as weather information and maps.