Gardens of Honshu and Hokkaido 7955
Gardens of Honshu and Hokkaido 7955
Gardens of Honshu and Hokkaido 7955
14 Days Starting in Tokyo, Japan and ending in Sapporo, Japan
Visiting: Tokyo, Mito, Kanazawa, Abashiri, Lake Saroma, Shiretoko Peninsula, Notsuke Peninsula, Sapporo, Shikotsu-Toya National Park, London
Tour operator:
Tour code:
BGHH
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Trip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an enchanting journey through the Gardens of Honshu and Hokkaido, where nature's beauty unfolds in Japan's most exquisite landscapes. This tour invites you to explore the renowned Kairakuen and Kenrokuen gardens, celebrated for their historical significance and breathtaking beauty. Experience the vibrant wisteria blooms at Ashikaga Flower Park and the serene expanse of Lake Saroma, Hokkaido's largest lake. Discover the untouched wilderness of the Shiretoko Peninsula, with its pristine forests and lakes, and enjoy the unique volcanic scenery of Shikotsu-Toya National Park. Travel comfortably by coach and bullet train, with professional guidance throughout. Delight in the cultural richness of Kanazawa's Geisha District and Sapporo's vibrant markets. This tour promises a harmonious blend of Japan's natural wonders and cultural treasures, offering an unforgettable experience for garden and nature enthusiasts.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1
Location: Tokyo
Enjoy access to the airport Executive lounge before we depart on an overnight flight from London Heathrow to Tokyo.
Day 2
Location: Tokyo
Accommodation Name: 4-star hotel in Tokyo
On arrival in Tokyo we are met by our coach and transfer to our 4-star hotel in the centre of Tokyo. The rest of the day is free.
Day 3
Location: Mito
Accommodation Name: 4-star hotel in Tokyo
Meals Included: Breakfast
We depart by coach this morning for Mito, the capital of the Ibaraki Prefecture, where we find Kairakuen, ranked among Japan’s three finest landscape gardens. Kairakuen was built relatively recently in 1841 by the local lord Tokugawa Nariaki, and unlike Japan’s other two great landscape gardens, Kairakuen served not only the ruling lord but was also open to the public: Kairakuen means “park to be enjoyed together”. In addition to its famous plum trees, of which there are more than 3000, Kairakuen also features a bamboo grove, cedar woods and the Kobuntei, a traditional three-storey building used in poetry contests and tea ceremonies. We return by coach to our hotel.
Day 4
Location: Kanazawa
Accommodation Name: hotel in Kanazawa
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning we enjoy one of the great experiences of travelling in Japan, a journey on the Shinkansen or Bullet Train. We depart at 10.24 (precisely) for Kanazawa, which lies on the west coast of Honshu, some 400km from Tokyo, a journey which takes only around 2.5 hours on the train.
Here we will visit Kenroku-en, another of the top three landscape gardens (the third being Koraku-en). The name means “having six factors”, representing the attributes which bring out the garden’s stunning beauty: spaciousness, tranquillity, artifice, antiquity, water sources and magnificent views. The Maeda family, who ruled the Kaga Domain (the present Ishikawa and Toyama areas) in feudal times, maintained the garden from generation to generation and it is regarded as one of the most beautiful feudal lords’ gardens in Japan. Among the gorgeous features to enjoy in the garden are the large artificial pond and island and a multitude of trees and flowers, including azaleas and irises at this time of year.
Following our visit here we take a stroll around Higashi Chaya, the Geisha District of Kanazawa, with restored teahouses and taverns reminiscent of bygone Japan. Souvenir shops specialise in Kanazawa’s signature gold-leaf lacquerware.
We then transfer to our hotel for an overnight stay here in Kanazawa.
Day 5
Location: Tokyo
Accommodation Name: hotel near Haneda Airport
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning depart by Bullet Train for Takasaki in Japan’s eastern Kantō region (journey time around 2.5 hours). Here we visit the Ashikaga Flower Park, famed for its spectacular display of wisteria, which will be in full bloom at this time of year. There are over 350 blossoming wisteria, including a 150-year-old great wisteria which is a Tochigi Prefecture ‘natural treasure’, a unique wisteria with double blossoms and an 80m long tunnel of white wisteria.
Following our visit here we transfer by coach to Tokyo (around two hours) and for convenience we will overnight at a hotel close to Haneda Airport.
Day 6
Location: Abashiri
Accommodation Name: western style hotel in Abashiri
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
After breakfast we transfer to the airport for our flight to Memanbetsu in Hokkaido (duration 1 hr 40 mins approx). On arrival we travel the short distance to our comfortable, western style hotel in Abashiri, stopping on the way at the observation point at Mt Tentozan, which affords panoramic views over Abashiri and the Okhotsk Sea beyond.
The rest of the day is at leisure with dinner served in the evening.
Day 7
Location: Lake Saroma
Accommodation Name: hotel in Abashiri
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
We begin our exploration of the unspoilt natural wonders of eastern Hokkaido today by touring the area around Lake Saroma, which is the largest lake in Hokkaido and the third largest in Japan after Biwa and Kasumigaura lakes. The lake is separated from the sea by a sandbar, but due to a gap in the sandbar, from which the seawater enters at the low tide, the lake is brackish. Over 300 kinds of flowers bloom on the sandbar which is approximately 20kms long and 200-700m wide. This is the biggest seaside grassy plain in Japan and was selected as Hokkaido Heritage in October 2001. A visit is included to the Lake Saroma Wakka Nature centre, which gives background information on the flora and fauna of the area. We will also visit the Wakka Gensei Kaen ‘Natural Garden’, an area of natural grassland that sits between Lake Saroma and the sea, home to a huge variety of wildflowers, forests, meadows and wetlands. No vehicles are allowed beyond the visitor centre but as well as exploring on foot, bicycles and horse-drawn traps are available to hire.
We return to our hotel in Abashiri in the afternoon.
Day 8
Location: Shiretoko Peninsula
Accommodation Name: hotel by Lake Kussharo
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Leaving our hotel in Abashiri, we will tour the Shiretoko Peninsula, an area of untouched primeval forest, lakes and mountains, protected as a National Park. Included are visits to the Shiretoko Nature Centre, Furepe Falls and Shiretoko Five Lakes. The Nature Centre is the base for activities to protect the unique natural environment in Shiretoko and provides a presentation and background information on the National Park. The Furepe Falls pour into the sea from the cliff beneath the Utoro lighthouse. The source is not a river, but meltwater and rainfall from the Shiretoko mountain range that seeps into the ground and springs out here. It is also called “tears of a maiden” because the clear water flows out like tears from cracks in the 100-metre-high cliff. Lake Shiretoko-go-ko (five lakes), are small, quiet lakes surrounded by virgin forest, and are also known as the “five jewels.” It takes about an hour to walk round the five lakes.
Following our visit here we will continue to our comfortable hotel by Lake Kussharo, near Teshikaga.
Day 9
Location: Notsuke Peninsula
Accommodation Name: hotel by Lake Kussharo
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
We depart today on a full day excursion to the Notsuke Peninsula, whose shape is said to resemble a shrimp’s bent back and has been formed by sea currents moving the sand and earth that has been flushed out of the Shibetsu-gawa River. Stretched like a fine thread between the Nemuro Straits and Notsuke Bay, it is made up of fields and marshes and at 28 kilometres is Japan’s largest branching sandbank. It is accessed by the Flower Road, named for the profusion of wildflowers that grow here in the summer months, including a community of Ramanas rose (Rosa rugosa). We will also see the woods of withered trees known as Todowara (fir straw) Woods, the result of fir trees which were washed by seawater until they withered. Their trunks and roots take on a skeletal appearance and stand exposed in clumps in the green marsh. There are also woods called Mizunara (beech trees) and Narawara (oak straw), which were formed by beeches and oaks that were blown and withered by strong winds. There is a wooden path here that takes 20 minutes to walk along giving good views of the woodland. We also visit the Notsuke Peninsula Nature Centre, long established as a rest house, which provides background information.
We return to our hotel.
Day 10
Location: Sapporo
Accommodation Name: hotel in Sapporo
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast we will transfer to Kushiro Airport, with a visit en route to Lake Mashu, a comma-shaped caldera lake which along with Lake Baikal in Siberia is one of the world’s most transparent lakes, though frequently covered in a mysterious fog. It was revered by the indigenous Ainu people as the ‘lake of gold’.
We depart on an early afternoon flight to Sapporo, where on arrival we will have an introductory sightseeing tour of the city and visits to Nijo Market, known for its huge range of freshly caught seafood, and Sapporo Beer Museum, the only one in Japan.
We then transfer to our hotel here in Sapporo.
Day 11
Location: Shikotsu-Toya National Park
Accommodation Name: hotel in Sapporo
Meals Included: Breakfast
A day among spectacular volcanic lakeland scenery in the Shikotsu-Toya National Park begins with a boat cruise on Lake Shikotsu, a caldera lake formed over 30,000 years ago by volcanic activity. With a maximum depth of 360m it is the second deepest lake in Japan, so deep that it rarely freezes over. Lake Okotanpe by contrast is relatively small and was formed when the lava flow of Mt Eniwa-dake dammed the Okotanpe River, following the formation of the Lake Shikotsu caldera. This is a very atmospheric lake, described as ’one of Hokkaido’s three most mysterious lakes’.
We continue to Jozankei for another uniquely Japanese experience as we visit the Onsen, the naturally occurring hot springs used for bathing and relaxation. Please be aware that is it customary to bathe naked and as such there are separate pools for men and women, and of course you may opt out of this activity should you wish. We also visit the Iwato Kannondo, a 120m long cave in which have been placed 33 different statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, filling the space with spiritual power.
We return to our hotel in Sapporo.
Day 12
Location: Sapporo
Accommodation Name: hotel in Sapporo
Meals Included: Breakfast
We will spend today touring Sapporo, including Odori Park, a flower-filled oasis which extends for 1500m through the city centre; the Hokkaido University Botanic Garden, which retains sections of virgin forest and contains some 4,000 varieties of plants collected from all over Hokkaido; and Yurigahara Park, noted in June for its lilies from all over the world, including the Rosy Lily (Lilium rubellum) and the Candlestick Lily (L. dauricum).
We continue to Otaru, the Venice of Japan, to see the Otaru Canal, constructed in 1923 and now a popular photo-stop with its stone-built warehouses lining the canal side. On our return to the hotel we will have some time in the Sakaimachi Shopping Street, an opportunity perhaps for some final souvenir shopping.
Day 13
Location: Sapporo
Accommodation Name: hotel in Sapporo
Meals Included: Breakfast
Sadly our tour ends today and after checking out of the hotel we transfer to Sapporo Airport for our onward flight to London.
Day 14
Location: London
Arrive in London.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Accommodation is included as part of the tour package.
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Meals as per the itinerary
Meals are provided according to the itinerary.
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Comfortable coach travel throughout
Coach transportation is included for comfortable travel throughout the tour.
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All visits as outlined in the itinerary
All visits mentioned in the itinerary are included in the tour package.
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Services of a professional tour manager
A professional tour manager will be available throughout the tour.
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Pre-flight executive airport lounge access
Access to an executive airport lounge before the flight is included.
What's Not Included
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Personal expenses
Personal expenses are not included in the tour package.
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Travel insurance
Travel insurance is not included and should be arranged separately.
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Optional activities
Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.
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International flights
International flights to and from the destination are not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel comfortably throughout the tour with coach transportation included.
Accommodation
Accommodation details are not provided in the tour information.
Check out our Q&As
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What type of transportation is used during the tour?
The tour includes comfortable coach travel throughout, and there are also journeys on the Shinkansen or Bullet Train for certain segments.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Meals are included as per the itinerary, although specific details about which meals are provided each day are not listed.
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Is there a tour manager available during the trip?
Yes, the services of a professional tour manager are included in the tour package.
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What is the significance of the gardens visited on the tour?
The tour visits some of Japan's most renowned gardens, including Kairakuen and Kenrokuen, which are ranked among Japan's three finest landscape gardens. These gardens are known for their historical significance and stunning beauty.
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What unique experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes unique experiences such as a journey on the Shinkansen or Bullet Train, a visit to the Ashikaga Flower Park during the wisteria bloom, and a visit to an Onsen, which is a traditional Japanese hot spring.
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What natural attractions are part of the itinerary?
The itinerary includes visits to natural attractions such as Lake Saroma, the Shiretoko Peninsula, and the Notsuke Peninsula, which are known for their unspoilt natural beauty and diverse flora and fauna.
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Are there any cultural activities included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes cultural activities such as a stroll around Higashi Chaya, the Geisha District of Kanazawa, and a visit to the Iwato Kannondo cave with its statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy.
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Will I receive more details of the holiday before I travel?
You will receive detailed joining instructions around 10 days prior to you departure, but you are of course welcome to contact us at any time should you have any queries.
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What facilities do your coaches have?
Generally, our coaches have reclining seats, air-conditioning and toilets, however this cannot always be guaranteed as sometimes we have to use smaller vehicles. Toilets are recommended for emergency use only and regular comfort stops will be made throughout your holiday while travelling around.
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Do I have to go on the included excursions?
Absolutely not. You are more than welcome to spend the day at your hotel or exploring independently should you wish. All we ask is that you inform your Tour Manager, so they are not left waiting for you to join the group.
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Is there time to relax?
Although our itineraries may seem jam-packed, boasting access to some of the most exclusive sites across the UK and beyond, a Brightwater Holiday is just that: a holiday. Each trip will counter in more than enough free-time for you to explore places at your own leisure. And with most nights and the majority of meals being included in our tour prices, you can relax in hand-picked accommodation.
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Do I need to be an expert?
Absolutely not! Although some of our tours are specifically focused on one thing, all you need to enjoy a Brightwater holiday is interest and bags of enthusiasm! Even on our most specialist tours, we take travellers from all skill levels, from experts to beginners.
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How fit or active do I need to be for one of your holidays?
You need to be able to get on and off the coach unassisted, and most – but not all – coaches have a kneel facility that lowers the front step for ease of boarding
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Do you have self-drive holidays?
Yes, we do – tailored to your exact requirements!
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What’s the luggage allowance on your coaches?
There’s no fixed limit, but we generally say one large suitcase to go in the luggage compartment and a smaller bag that you can take onto the coach with you. For flight-inclusive holidays, we include a luggage allowance of at least 20kg.
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Where are your departure points?
UK garden holidays generally depart from London, with additional pick-ups depending on the route of the coach, while holidays to Scotland depart from Glasgow, Edinburgh and Perth, with Dundee, Inverness and Aberdeen sometimes included. All Eurostar holidays depart from London St. Pancras and flight-inclusive holidays depart from one or more of the main London airports, with regional flights .
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What about the company that will be kept?
For single travellers, those with a companion or even those travelling in a larger group, you'll find that the signature of any Brightwater Holiday is the company. You won't ever be travelling with a group of strangers, instead, you'll find yourself surrounded by like-minded people with a strong shared interest who will soon become your firm friends.
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What is a Brightwater Holiday?
Bursting with enthralling, educational and enlightening itineraries, a Brightwater Holiday, by its very nature, is packed with bucket-list-worthy destinations, behind the scenes passes and expert-led experiences. From creating bespoke quality garden and special interest tours for groups and individuals alike, we have made it our business to make our guests' travel dreams come true.
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Why is there a single supplement?
Unfortunately, single room supplements are charges that are often imposed on us as a company when we book rooms for group holidays. However, most hotels do charge less for single occupancy, and we always pass this saving on to our solo travellers in the form of a modest single supplement.
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How much are your optional excursions?
Prices start from as little as £20, but please contact our friendly team for questions about specific itineraries or excursions.
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Can I pre-book my coach seats?
Yes, you can. In the case of front seats, guests with limited mobility are given priority. Please get in touch with our friendly team to discuss any requirements you may have.
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How to get there? Easy!
With a Brightwater Holiday, the journey is just as important as the destination and we make getting you to your tour start point easy. From organising group flights and individual travel plans, to offering accessible local departure and pick-up points, we go out of our way to ensure that your journey is as convenient and hassle-free as it can be.
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Do I need to have travel insurance?
Travel insurance is required for all overseas holidays and is also strongly recommended for UK holidays – primarily to protect yourself against cancellation charges should you be unable to travel.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Brightwater Holidays allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform brightwater holidays, 25 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Brightwater Holidays requires a minimum deposit of 15% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of brightwater holidays charges.
At 40 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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