Clients’ Names: Enrica Immacolata & Sandra Wibke TDC200 TB Harneet Kukreja Leona Koh Joanna Haoyi Naomi Csercsa Professor: Heather Keddie • Miss Enrica Immacolata (DOB Jan 1/90) and Miss Sandra Wibke (DOB Feb 14/89) are good friends, and wish to travel for one week between mid-March and mid-April. They are travelling with Canadian passports hoping to experience different culture, food and shopping. They both love anime, video games and Japanese culture. They are not travelling on a budget and would like to go on a trip of a lifetime before they start their post-secondary education. They are aiming to major in history and would like to go on this trip to help them learn more about Japanese history as well. They are not that concerned about safety because they are both trained in martial arts, and they have previous travel experience as they have travelled all over Europe and the United States of America, and are ready to try a long haul trip. • • • • • • • • Japan is located off the coast of the Russian and Korean peninsula, in the North Pacific It is made up of four main (Hokkaido, Honshu, Shikoku and Kyushu) and 4000 smaller islands Shinkansen, Japan’s high-speed train is great to take in major cities 70% of Japan is mountainous terrain Known for earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, as it known as Pacific Ring of Fire There are 127, 078, 769+ people living in Japan The major religions are Shinto and Buddhism Japan has 12 cultural and 4 natural sites designated as World Heritage sites This country was selected for Miss. Enrica and Miss. Sandra because they are motivated to travel to a country that is unique when it comes to culture, has a variety of amazing and different sorts of food and there are many options to shop. Needs are met with this country as there are plenty of historic sites (to support their Major in Post-Secondary) to visit and a lot of exposure in their favourites, anime and video games. Their expectation is also covered with Japan since; they are going without a budget and will be able to achieve their dream, a trip of a lifetime. • • • • • • • Capital City: Tokyo Other Major cities: Yokohama, Osaka, Nagano, Sapporo, Nara, Kyoto, Nagasaki and Hiroshima City code and airport code for Tokyo: TYO and NRT (Tokyo Intl: Narita) Currency and currency code: Japanese Yen, JPY. 1 Japanese Yen equals to 0.011 Canadian Dollar . Language(s) spoken: Japanese, Ainu, Amami-Oshima, Kikai, Korean and many more. English is widely spoken in all major cities and is not a concern for tourists. Time zone: UTC+09:00 Voltage: 100 Volt – clients however do not need to worry as power outlets in Japan fit the common North American 2-pin plug. Buying a worldwide plug adapter would be wise as not all equipment will fit the outlet and to avoid damage. Season High Temp Low Temp Average Precipitation Winter (Dec-Feb) 12°C – 10°C 2°C – 5°C 10% – 25% Spring (Mar – May) 13°C – 23°C 5°C – 15°C 25% – 35% Summer (Jun – Aug) 25°C – 31°C 19°C – 24°C 25% – 40% Summer (Jun – Aug) 17°C – 27°C 10°C – 21°C 20% – 40% • • • • • • • • • • Valid passport is required, obtaining a visa is mandatory for stays over 90 days only Proof of a return ticket, funds and accommodation is required Ensure vaccinations are up to date and practise safe health precautions to avoid traveller’s diarrhea All visitors must carry their passport or residency card at all times Be alert when in entertainment and nightlife districts as tourists are targeted for drink spiking, credit card fraud and assaults. Be cautious when driving: driving is on the left, roads are not smooth, and most signs are in Japanese, *International Driving Permit and Japanese insurance is required to in order to drive in Japan. Avoid contact with animals as risk of infection can be a possibility Medical services are expensive Carrying knives with a blade longer than 5.5 cm is illegal Educate yourself regarding reports, and evacuations as earthquakes, tsunamis and volcanic eruptions are common in Japan Can you drink the water in this destination? • It is recommended for visitors to the country not to drink the water, similarly with other East Asian countries. It is advised to boil the water before drinking it if they do choose to drink. • There are some areas in the country where the water is drinkable even for foreigners; however tourists should still be advised to be careful and be aware. • Buying bottled water is also recommended, from stores or from vending machines Local food in Japan: While Japan had been known mostly for foods like sushi or sukiyaki, the country’s vast variety of great foods has become more recognized throughout the world. Local specialties vary from region to region, which makes travelling around the country to try the different cuisine even better. Most foods include some form of seafood, vegetables, meat, rice or noodles. 1. Sushi: A form of raw seafood, usually tuna, squid and prawns with a ball of rice (sometimes rapped in seaweed). 2. Mochi: A sweet ice cream dessert made into a ball. The outside is chewy, while the inside is creamy Local beverage in Japan: One beverage that is very popular in Japan is “nihonshu” (Japanese rice wine), also know as sake outside of Japan. Brewed using rice and seed malt, this alcoholic drink is very popular throughout the country, whether it is served at room temperature or chilled. The best sake is made using high quality rice and water, and with the right climate. What makes this beverage special: Similarly with grapes used for making wine, the rice used for making sake have to be a very high quality to make a great product. Traditional methods are still used to brew Japanese rice wines, and this makes them truly special to the country. Some brands of sake are sold worldwide. • • • Japanese are incredibly formal. Bowing is one of their oldest customs. Be sure to bow as low as they’re being bowed to. Titles are used when addressing each other (e.g. last name + title). Don’t address strangers by their first name, as that is considered disrespectful. In Japan, first names are used only between close friends and family. While people in Japan can be really helpful to visitors, they might suffer from culture shock when seeing foreigners, or gaijin (lit. outsider). However, that term is no longer used as it is considered offensive. However, discrimination still exists, especially when visiting rural areas. Geisha are traditional female entertainers. They’re well versed in traditional Japanese dance and music, and their job is to attend guests during dinners or banquets, making them feel at ease while also keeping their cups full. While such events used to be reserved for only high-end venues, it has become less restrictive and it can be booked, as long as you have enough money. Of course, since Geisha can only speak Japanese, those without sufficient language skills will not be able to enjoy the full experience, though an interpreter can be hired at an additional cost. • Japan’s fashion scene is one of the most famous in the world, with extravagant styles and colourful presentation. They’re usually a mix between current and traditional trends, and take inspiration from foreign labels. Some of the most iconic street fashion include: Lolita, gyaru, visual kei, mori kei, etc. • Japan has many national holidays, while some can be experienced while visiting (New Years, Valentine’s Day), others will not make any sense unless living in Japan (Coming of Age, Hina Matsuri). However, visitors can enjoy the local festivals (matsuri). Many are religious by nature, which includes the shrine God carried throughout the streets for good fortune. What religions are represented in the country • Shinto and Buddhism are the two main religions in the country. Japanese are not overly religious, usually following the rituals during important celebrations like birth, weddings and funerals, while visiting shrines or temples during New Year’s to pray for success. • When visiting a shrine/temple, be sure to behave in a respectful manner. In some temples, the visitors may be required to take off their shoes (wear nice socks). Visiting a temple while sick or in mourning is not recommended, as they’re considered causes of impurity. Talking loudly is frowned upon. When approaching the offering box, throw a coin before making a short prayer. Some temple will allow photos of the grounds, but not of the interior of the temple; read the signs carefully. Discuss any crime, political problems and/or other issues • The crime rate in Japan is lower than other industrialized countries. Owning a handgun is illegal, and ceremonial swords must be registered with the police. This means crimes are rarely committed with firearms, though knives and blades are still a problem. Japan has an incredibly high conviction rate, exceeding 99%. • One of the most famous large scale crimes in Japan is the Tokyo Sarin Gas attack in March 20 1995, in which a cult called Aum Shinrikyo, in five coordinated attacks, released sarin (colorless, odourless) in various Tokyo subway lines, killing 13 and injuring over 1000 people. • The current Emperor of Japan is Akihito. The Emperor of Japan is never addressed by name, but rather as “His Imperial Majesty the Emperor”. While Emperors used to have absolute control over political and military power, since 1946, the Emperor only holds a symbolic function. While he appears in diplomatic meetings, he has no effective political power. • The Japanese Parliament is called the Diet. It consists of the House of Representatives and the House of Councillors. Its members are elected by the Japanese people. The minimum voting age is 20. Japan’s current Prime Minister is Shinzo Abe. Where is the best shopping area? Tokyo is great for shopping, specifically at Shinjuku, Shibuya, Harajuku and Ginza What items are considered best buys for this destination? Yukata (informal version of the kimono, robe), kokeshi dolls and woodblock prints are common great buys for this destination. Is bargaining allowed? Bargaining is frowned upon in Japan as there are set prices. Discount or extra is given by the owner with his or her will. Recommend local souvenirs, handicrafts or artefacts to purchase: • Maneki neko (beckoning cat statue) • Tenugui (printed rectangular material with multiple purposes) • Japanese hand fans • Wagasa (traditional Japanese umbrella) • Daruma dolls • Japanese chopsticks • Paper lanterns • Sampuru (plastic food replicas) • Wooden koma (spinning top) Describe local sports visitors could observe? Visitors will enjoy observing Japanese sumo wrestling, martial arts (judo, karate, kendo, kyudo and aikido), and the Tokyo marathon that occurs in early spring. Describe local night life: Japan is known for its entertainment: red-light districts, clubs and shows. Most bars/clubs charge usually up to $50 that covers the ticket, possibly a drink or a cheap item. Heading to an upscale sushi bar/restaurant is also a part of local night life where some mingle or relax. Attraction Name: Imperial Palace East Gardens Describe Location: The East Gardens is a 15 minute walk from Tokyo Station. It is also reachable by a short walk from from Otemachi Station on the Chiyoda, Tozai, Marunouchi, Hanzomon and Mita Subway Lines. Address: 1-1 Chiyoda, Tokyo 100-0001, Japan Man-made or Natural? Man-made Entrance Fees: Free Hours of Operation: 9:00 to 16:30 (until 17:00 from mid April through August; until 16:00 from November through February). • Admission ends 30 minutes before closing. What is the appeal to tourists? • Allows them to feel and stand on history • Beautiful view and great for pictures • Public Park is near by • Great for history/culture lovers Attraction Name: Matsumoto Castle Describe Location: Matsumoto Castle is a hirashiro (flatland castle) located in the city of Matsumoto, Nagano (easy access from Tokyo by train) Address: 4-1 Marunouchi, Matsumoto, Nagano 390-0873, Japan Man-Made or Natural? Man made by Shimadachi Sadagana, using earth, stone and wood. Entrance Fees: 600 yen (around 6.50 at time of writing) Hours of Operation: 8:30 am to 5:00 pm (doors close at 4:30 pm). Closed from Dec 29 until Jan 3 Appeal to Tourists: nicknamed the Crow Castle thanks to its pitch black exterior, Matsumoto Castle is one of the National Treasures of Japan. If visiting during spring (April), it is a popular cherry blossom viewing spot. Every summer (July), a taiko drum festival is held and moon viewing festivals are held during autumn (September) in the special moon viewing room of the castle. Attraction Name: Commonly referred to as Hakone Lake; formally Ashinoko Lake Describe Location: A crater lake that lies along the southwest wall of the caldera of Mount Hakone, a complex volcano Address: located on the island of Honshu in the Hakone area of Kanagawa Prefecture, 62 miles from Tokyo Man-Made or Natural? Natural Entrance Fees: boat cruise fee: 970 yen (approx. $10.53 CAD) Hours of Operation: hours of operation: 9:30am – 5:30pm, 7 days a week Appeal to Tourists: It is known for its many onsen (hot springs) and its views of Mount Fuji. Local attractions also include Owakudani (steam vents, bubbling pools, black eggs), Hakone pirate ships, hiking trails. • • • • Tranfalgar Tours Splendors Of Japan 2014 Sat, Mar 29, 2014 Mon, Apr 7, 2014 C$4400.00 • • Depart from YYZ on 28/03/2014 at 11:40 a.m. Stops for layover in ORD. Arrives to NRT/Tokyo the next day, 29/03/2014 at 4:40 p.m Return from Tokyo on 07/04/2014 at 11:10 a.m. Stops for layover in JFK. Arrives to YYZ at 4:49 p.m. Day 1 • DEPART CANADA • Depart from your home gateway city, bound for Tokyo. Day 2 • ARRIVE TOKYO (3 NIGHTS) • Welcome to Tokyo! Upon arrival at Narita New Tokyo Airport, transfer to your centrally located hotel. Enjoy some free time this evening to begin your exploration or take time to relax and recharge. Join your Travel Director and fellow travellers for a Welcome Reception drink and local appetisers at 8 p.m. • Meal(s): (Welcome Reception) • Hotel: New Otani Garden Tower (SF) Day 3 • TOKYO SIGHTSEEING • Embark on a city tour of Tokyo. Visit the Imperial Palace, formally known as Edo Castle, surrounded by its original innermost moat and star attraction, the Meiji Shrine, located in a forest that covers an area of 700,000 square meters, consisting of 365 different species of tree. It is a picturesque Shinto shrine where cherry blossoms bloom in springtime. During lunch, enjoy a cooking class where you will learn how to make sushi, a Local Speciality, in the famous Ginza district. Continue to Sensoji, the Asakusa Kannon Buddhist temple. It is one of Tokyo's most colourful and popular temples. The temple was completed in 645, making it Tokyo's oldest temple. Visit Nakamise, a shopping street over 200 meters long that stretches from the outer gate to the temple's second interior gate. Alongside typical Japanese souvenirs such as yukata and folding fans, various traditional local snacks from the area are sold. This evening, enjoy a Japanese-style dinner at a local restaurant with your Travel Director and fellow travellers. • Meal(s): (Buffet Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner) Day 4 • MT FUJI AND HAKONE SIGHTSEEING • After breakfast depart on a full day of sightseeing, beginning at the Five Lakes District dominated by majestic Mt Fuji. At 3776m, it is Japan's highest mountain and most recognisable icon. Ascend to the 5th Station of Mount Fuji to enjoy some spectacular views at 2,300m (weather permitting). After enjoying lunch at a local restaurant continue to the Owakudani Valley where you will see volcanic activity and enjoy black eggs boiled in the geysers. Continue on to the beautiful town on Hakone, where the cherry blossoms are noted sights in this area, in the Spring this is known as (sakura) and in autumn the (susuki). You have the option to take a cable car ride over the crystal-clear blue waters of Lake Ashi, where you'll see the rising volcanic fumes of Owakudani and enjoy the spectacular grandeur of Mount Fuji (weather permitting). After an enjoyable day of sightseeing return to your hotel for a restful evening. Meal(s): (Buffet Breakfast / Lunch) Day 5 • TOKYO - MATSUMOTO – TAKAYAMA (2 NIGHTS) • Drive north this morning to visit Matsumoto Castle one of the most complete and beautiful of Japan's original castles, with its unique timber and stone structure. Later, head to the Matsumoto Folkcraft Museum to see wooden crafts, bamboo wares, glassware, china and porcelain. Matsumoto is also famous for its wasabi cultivation, cherished for decades in the East for its unique flavour and healthful influences. Wasabi is best known as an age-old food pairing with sashimi or sushi dishes that include raw fish. Wasabi is also served as a garnish with soba noodles and made into pickles, jams, wine and other foods. Today you learn all about the production of wasabi, a Unique Insight, before enjoying a lunch of soba noodles with wasabi. Continue your journey through the breath-taking Japanese Alps to the beautiful hill town of Takayama. A city in the mountainous Hida region of the Gifu prefecture, it has retained a traditional touch like few other Japanese cities, especially in its beautifully preserved old town with Edo-style streets. Takayama gained importance as a source of high quality timber and highly skilled carpenters during the feudal ages. The Takayama festival, held in spring, is considered one of Japan's best festivals. • Meal(s): (Buffet Breakfast / Lunch) • Hotel: Hida Hotel Plaza (SF) Day 6 • TAKAYAMA SIGHTSEEING • Begin your walking tour of Takayama, known as ‘little Kyoto', filled with amazing attractions. Explore the Old Town, stopping at some of the traditional houses and delightful local museums and wander through a vibrant Asaichi open-air flower and fruit market. Later enjoy a Highlight Lunch of Japanese Hida beef at a local restaurant. Hida-gyu (Hida Beef) is the specific name given to beef from a black-haired Japanese cattle breed, it is known as one of the finest quality varieties of beef. After lunch, continue to Takayama Jinya. Takayama Jinya was a former government outpost that was established in order to bring the Hida Province under the direct control of the Edo Bakufu (Shogunate) in 1629. The Takayama Jinya served as the local government office, headed by the officials dispatched from Edo. The present building complex includes various rooms for administrative purposes: kitchens, residential space, a court room and storehouses. It was in official use until 1969, and is now open to the public as a museum. Continue to the Kami-Sannomachisu District where you will find skillfully renowned local artisans. Take time to sample Sake, a Local Specialty, a delicious rice wine. Walk through the narrow streets and admire the ancient Japanese wooden architecture. This evening is free for you to explore the many restaurants in this picturesque town. • Meal(s): (Buffet Breakfast / Highlight Lunch) Day 7 • TAKAYAMA – SHIRAKAWAGO – KANAZAWA • Take a step back in time with a Local Expert during a visit to the peaceful mountain village and UNESCO World Heritage site of Shirakawago. Here you'll will find the Gasshozukuri houses built of wooden beams combined to form a steep thatched roof that resembles two hands together. Walk around this wonderful outdoor exhibition of farmhouses and other traditional buildings typical of the region. Later continue towards the coast to Kanazawa, a historic castle town which boasts beautifully preserved samurai districts. On arrival, take time to see the Nagamachi District with old Samurai houses. Stop to visit the Normura house, an elegant Samurai mansion with beautiful small gardens belonging to a high-ranked samurai family. Later check in to your centrally located hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening. • Meal(s): (Buffet Breakfast / Lunch) • Hotel: Kanazawa Excel Hotel (SF) Day 8 • KANAZAWA – KYOTO (2 NIGHTS) • Begin the day with a short walk through the Omicho market to see the local fish catch and enjoy an insiders view of everyday life in a busy coastal town. Continue to the gardens of Kenrokuen, rated as one of the top 3 most beautiful landscaped gardens in Japan and enjoy an optional Japanese tea ceremony. Kanazawa produces 99% of Japan's highquality gold leaf, discover the secrets of golf leaf painting, a Local Speciality, during a visit with a local artist before travelling to Kyoto by train. Kyoto is home to some of Japan's most important works of art, its richest culture and most refined cuisine. On arrival at your centrally located hotel, you are free to explore this historic town for the rest of the day. Later enjoy a traditional Japanese Kaiseki Highlight Dinner and dance performance featuring Geisha. • Meal(s): (Buffet Breakfast / Highlight Dinner) • Hotel: Nikko Princess Kyoto (SF) Day 9 • KYOTO SIGHTSEEING • Explore Kyoto today. This delightful city has an abundance of fine architecture in its shrines and temples, gardens, and variety of art and craft shops. See Nijo Castle, the old Shogun residence, the Kinkakuji Temple famous for its Golden Pavilion. The Kinkakuji history dates back to 1397, when the villa was purchased by Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. When Yoshimitsu died, the building was converted into a Zen temple by his son. This afternoon, enjoy a special Be My Guest farewell lunch at a traditional Ryokan nestled in the peace and quiet of Mt. Yoshida. The Ryokan was originally built by master craftsmen to serve as the second residence of the uncle of the current Japanese emperor, Akihito. The land lady and her daughter invite you to experience the true essence of Kyoto, Japan's noble capital of grace and culture, and learn about the Japanese custom of Omotenashi Hospitality. Enjoy the pleasures of a truly flavorful and unique dining experience of kaiseki cuisine, crafted from the very freshest of seasonal delicacies. Later continue on to Heian Shinto Shrine with its beautiful inner garden and Nishikikoji market to purchase last minute souvenirs with hundreds of local shops to explore. The evening is free to enjoy Kyoto as you wish. Relax at the hotel, explore the town or join an optional trip to the Gion Corner for a cultural performance. This local theater's programs introduce visitors to Japanese customs like traditional arts, tea ceremonies, flower arrangement, Bunraku puppet plays, Kyomai dance, music and gagaku (court music). • Meal(s): (Buffet Breakfast / Be My Guest Dining) • • • Day 10 DEPART KYOTO - OSAKA - CANADA Transfer by Airport bus service to Kansai International airport, Osaka, for your onward flight home. Meal(s): (Buffet Breakfast) • A valid Canadian passport is required • If going as a tourist, a visa is not required for up to 90 day • If going for business or study purpose, one must obtain a visa by contact the Embassy of Japan • Proof of a return ticket is mandatory, as well as accommodation and proof of funds for one’s visit to Japan Miss Immacolata and Miss Wibke would enjoy a trip to Japan due to the incredibly rich culture the country has to offer. From Matsumoto Castle and Meiji Shrine to the UNESCO World Heritage site Shirakawago, there will always be something that catches their eye. Japan offers a wide range of foods, from traditional meals like sushi, to light snacks like the ever popular takoyaki. The Splendors of Japan 2014 package will give Miss Immocolata and Miss Wibke the opportunity to enjoy Japanese-style food at local restaurants. In addition, Japan is a shopping paradise, with streets such as Nakamise filled with both local and foreign brands, and can go from 100-yen shops to high end boutiques in a second. As they are both anime enthusiasts, they will enjoy Akihabara, the electronics street of Tokyo, filled with discount shops and otaku merchandise. "30 Must Have Souvenirs from Japan... and Some Travel Tips." Muza-chan.net/. N.p., n.d. Web. 17 Mar. 2014. "Cuisine of the Hokuriku Region." Japan National Tourism Organization. N.p., n.d. Web. 17 Mar. 2014. <http://www.jnto.go.jp/eng/attractions/dining/food/jfood_06.html#sake>. "Geisha (Geiko)." Japan-Guide.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 17 Mar. 2014. <http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2102.html>. "Hakone Pirate Ship." 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