Page 13 - AAA Central Penn – Discoveries AAA Now! – July/August 2018

TRAVEL AGENCY
Japan: ‘The Land of the Rising Sun’
TM
AAA
The Far East is an exotic, mystical land that entices travelers with a colorful kaleidoscope of historical and cultural treasures. Japan, with its sublime beauty, centuries-old traditions and modern-day influences around the world, truly presents a fascinating tapestry of life.
Join AAA Member Choice Vacations on a Cultural Treasures of Japan journey through this intriguing country of geishas, temples and gardens to explore ancient and modern Japanese culture.
Begin the exploration in the electrifying city of Tokyo. A traditional kaiseki-style meal will set the stage for a festive welcome and eagerly anticipated stay with much to see and experience.
On the agenda for the following day is a visit
to Asakusa, Tokyo’s oldest geisha district. Then, turn to the tranquility of the famous Buddhist temple Senso-ji. During your free time, explore the Nakamise Shopping Arcade and Tokyo’s old town, Yanaka Ginza, where quaint shops and vendors pushing local cuisine transport you to a different time altogether.
The next morning, stroll through the grounds
of the Imperial Palace, the Kokyo Gaien National Gardens and see the Niju Bridge and Sakurada Gate, the well-known symbol of the Imperial Palace. Then head to the top of Tokyo Tower. On a clear day, you might even catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji. Later,
amid a lush forest outside of Tokyo, find peace and harmony at Meiji Shrine.
A new day brings us to the lakeshore resort of Hakone, which sits in the shadow of Mount Fuji. Then, enjoy a cruise on Lake Ashi with incredible views of the mountain before stopping in the charming town of Moto-Hakone. Climb aboard Hakone Ropeway, an aerial cable car that ascends Mount Hakone, for spectacular views of Mount Fuji.
Magnificent Matsumoto Castle is one of the highlights on the following day. Later, you’ll
step back in time in the rural Edo-period town of Takayama, nestled in the Japanese Alps, and visit one of Japan’s last family-owned sake breweries. The ancient cultures of Takayama come alive
the next day in the town’s historic district. Stroll along winding streets where the town’s traditional charms are preserved in its inns and homes. Feel the energy of bustling open-air markets that date back more than 600 years.
Then it’s on to the village of Shirakawa-go. Hidden away in the mountains, this village is known for its gassho-zukuri-style thatched-roof housing. Then, it’s over to the Samurai district where you
will enter the former home of Nomuras, a wealthy Samurai family who served the ruling Maeda family. At Kenroku-En (Garden of Six Qualities) delve into the ancient craft of gold leaf-making during a hands-on lesson in decorating your own bento box.
One of the final highlights of the trip will be Kyoto, Japan’s former imperial capital, which boasts 2,000 temples and shrines. Visit Kinkakuji, the Golden Pavilion, and stroll through the Gion district, where you may spot women in traditional dress along the narrow lanes of teahouses. All aboard the Shinkansen bullet train to Hiroshima. Upon arrival, board a ferry for a trip to Miyajima Island, where the Itsukushima Shrine appears to float on water.
On the final day of the journey, explore Kyoto and immerse yourself in Japanese culture with a kaiseki farewell dinner and geisha show before sadly saying sayonara to beautiful Japan.
Note: Sights on this tour also will include the geisha quarters of Kanazawa, the Hagashi Tea District;
the Hiroshima Peace Memorial; Tsukiji, the world’s largest fish market; Owakudani crater; Fushimi Inari Taisha; Nijo Castle (UNESCO site); and Marumasu- Nishimuraya for a lesson in the art of stenciling.
By Judie Karhan
CULTURAL
TREASURES
OF JAPAN
JANUARY 27 - FEBRUARY 9, 2019
$6,549
per person, double occupancy
Book and deposit by July 27, 2018 and receive $50 off per person! (Must be a AAA member.)
HIGHLIGHTS:
Tokyo • Asakusa & Yanaka Ginza •
Tea Ceremony • Hakone • Lake Ashi Cruise • Matsumoto Castle • Takayama • Hida Beef Dinner and Sake Tasting • Shirakawa-go • Kanazawa • Kyoto • Bullet Train • Hiroshima • Geisha Show
Travel
For more information and to make reservations, call 800-717-4222.
INCLUDED FEATURES:
• Free parking with round-trip transfers to Philadelphia International Airport
• Round-trip airfare – Philadelphia, PA to Tokyo, Japan/Kyoto, Japan
• Round-trip transfers – airport/hotel
• Twelve nights hotel accommodations
• Sightseeing as stated in itinerary by luxury coach • Services of a Professional AAA Member Choice
Vacations driver/guide
• Meals: 12 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 7 dinners
• All local taxes, hotel service charges & porterage
for one suitcase per person
• Welcome reception
• Services of a Discoveries Journey Manager
Rates are subject to availability at time of booking and include taxes, fees and fuel charges which are subject to change. All pricing and included features are based on a minimum of 15 passengers.
JULY/AUGUST 2018
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Now!