Japan
A 10-Night exploration of Tradition, CULTURAL ART, and Timeless natural Beauty
Japan
STEP INTO SERENITY: DISCOVER THE SOULFUL STRIDE THROUGH JAPAN’S SPIRITUAL TAPESTRY
about this journey
Join Ethos Journeys October 04 – 14, 2024, as we embark on a transformative 10-night journey through the heart and soul of Japan, where ancient traditions harmonize with modern marvels and cultural art.
This immersive exploration will take you from the bustling modern streets of Tokyo to the cultural richness of Kyoto, with stops along the way to experience the splendor of Naoshima Island and the history of Hiroshima.
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“One must learn, if one is to see the beauty in Japan, to like an extraordinarily restrained and delicate loveliness.”
MARY RITTER BEARD • AUTHOR
“Forget yourself. Become one with eternity. Become part of the environment.”
YAYOI KUSAMA • ARTIST
“Japan never considers time together as time wasted. Rather, it is time invested.”
DONALD RICHIE • AUTHOR
“Teaism is a cult founded on the adoration of the beautiful among the sordid facts of everyday existence.”
KAKUZO OKAHURA • ART CRITIC
This is your invitation to connect with the essence of Japan and to absorb the wisdom of its heritage.
Begin your adventure in the pulsating metropolis of Tokyo, where neon lights and historic temples coexist in a captivating dance. Escape to the tranquil landscapes of Hakone and witness the majestic silhouette of Mount Fuji against the horizon. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Okayama’s picturesque gardens and explore Naoshima Island, a haven for contemporary art enthusiasts. Pay homage to resilience in Hiroshima, and then experience the cultural kaleidoscope of Kyoto, where traditional tea ceremonies and centuries-old temples paint a vivid picture of Japan’s rich heritage.
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journey itinerary
Arrival at Narita or Haneda Airport in Tokyo
Upon arrival, make your way to our first hotel in Tokyo. (We will provide various easy options for you to get from the airport to the hotel.)
Upon arrival, settle into your room and join the group for a welcome cocktail and dinner together as we share details of all the exciting experiences we have planned for our time together in Japan.
Accommodation: Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba (3 Nights)
Located at the waterfront in Tokyo with a wonderful view of the Bay Area, with easy access from Tokyo International Airport and all areas within Tokyo. The elegance, serenity, and constantly changing views of the Tokyo skyline will unleash your heart.
Included Meals: None
After breakfast, depart on a full-day tour of Tokyo, where tradition and modernity seamlessly blend into one. Our journey will begin at the iconic Tsukiji Fish Market, a bustling seafood paradise where the freshest catches await. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere as skilled vendors showcase their culinary expertise, offering a sensorial feast for seafood enthusiasts.
Next, indulge in a hands-on sushi-making experience for lunch. Under the guidance of a seasoned sushi chef, unlock the secrets behind crafting sushi rolls and nigiri. It’s not just a meal; it’s a journey into the artistry of Japanese gastronomy.
As the afternoon unfolds, we venture to the historic Asakusa district to discover the Sensoji Temple. Walk through the vermilion gates and the imposing Thunder Gate (Kaminarimon), your entrance into a sacred space dating back to the 7th century. Explore the Nakamise shopping street, lined with traditional stalls offering souvenirs, snacks, and cultural treasures.
Cap off your day in Tokyo with a visit to the towering Tokyo Skytree observatories. Ascend to dizzying heights and witness the cityscape transform beneath you. The panoramic views provide a breathtaking panorama of Tokyo, merging the ancient rooftops of Asakusa with the sleek, modern skyline.
Dinner at leisure.
Accommodation: Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Today our adventure begins with a scenic drive to Hakone, where the Hakone Ropeway (aerial lift) awaits to transport you to elevated realms. As you ascend, take in the views of the surrounding mountains, lush valleys, and the pristine Lake Ashi. The journey itself is an experience, offering a bird’s-eye perspective of Hakone’s natural beauty.
Next on the itinerary is Owakudani, a volcanic valley renowned for its mystical landscapes and geothermal activity. As you explore the area, witness plumes of steam rising from the Earth’s depths, a testament to the region’s volcanic origins.
The highlight of your day trip is the awe-inspiring Mt. Fuji viewing at the 5th station. Ascend to this vantage point and be greeted by the majestic sight of Japan’s iconic peak. The vistas of Mt. Fuji against the backdrop of the surrounding landscapes create a scene that is nothing short of mesmerizing.
Conclude today by returning to Tokyo for dinner at leisure in the city.
Accommodation: Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Luggage Note: Today all large luggage (anything larger than a carry-on) will be sent by ground courier to our next hotel in Okayama as it cannot be transported on the bullet train. Please prepare necessities for one night in a backpack or small bag/duffel until reunited with our luggage tomorrow.
Ease into your Tokyo morning with a leisurely start, savoring the tranquility that lies beneath the city’s bustling exterior. Perhaps begin your day with a stroll through the serene Hamarikyu Gardens, an oasis of calm nestled amidst the urban landscape.
As the clock ticks towards noon, we will make our way to Shinagawa Station, where the sleek bullet train awaits to transport us to Okayama. The seamless transition from Tokyo’s urban embrace to the streamlined efficiency of the Shinkansen promises a journey as smooth as it is swift. Find a window seat and watch the cityscape transform into the scenic beauty of Japan’s countryside during this 3.5 hour ride.
Upon arriving in Okayama, we will let the evening unfold at our own pace.
Accommodation: Hotel Granvia Okayama (3 Nights)
Included Meals: Breakfast
The hotel’s contemporary design, accented with subtle Japanese aesthetics, creates an inviting atmosphere that immediately puts you at ease. The rooms at Hotel Granvia Okayama are a sanctuary of luxury and relaxation. Spacious and thoughtfully appointed, each room’s amenities seamlessly coexist with traditional touches. The panoramic windows offer stunning views of the city or the picturesque landscapes that surround Okayama, providing a tranquil backdrop to your stay.
Today we embark on a full-day tour to Naoshima Island from Okayama, a journey that integrates art, architecture, and natural beauty. Your adventure begins with a scenic train ride from Okayama to Uno Port, where a ferry awaits to transport you to the artistic haven of Naoshima Island.
Upon arrival, delve into the Art House Project, an enchanting open-air museum that transforms traditional Japanese houses into contemporary art installations. As you wander through the narrow streets, each turn reveals a new artistic expression, blending beautifully with the island’s quaint charm.
Continue your exploration with a visit to the Ando Museum, a tribute to the renowned architect Tadao Ando, who has left an indelible mark on Naoshima’s landscape. The museum itself is a work of art, showcasing Ando’s mastery of space and light, providing a unique perspective on the intersection of architecture and nature.
The Chichu Art Museum comes next, an underground masterpiece that harmoniously merges art with the island’s topography. Designed by Ando, the museum houses works by artists like Claude Monet and James Turrell, creating an immersive experience where art and environment become one.
Your journey ends at Benesse House, a unique fusion of art museum and hotel overlooking the Seto Inland Sea. Explore the museum’s collection of contemporary art, carefully curated to complement the island’s serene surroundings. The seamless integration of art, architecture, and nature at Benesse House makes it a testament to the island’s commitment to artistic innovation.
Throughout the day, you will traverse the island via local buses with our private guide and experience the laid-back rhythm of Naoshima. From the moment you step off the ferry to the final train ride back to Okayama, this full-day journey is a symphony of artistic expressions woven into the fabric of Naoshima’s landscapes.
Dinner at leisure in Okayama.
Accommodation: Hotel Granvia Okayama
Included Meals: Breakfast
Today we depart for a poignant and picturesque full-day tour to Hiroshima, a journey of reflection. Begin your day with a train ride to Hiroshima, where you’ll first explore the sobering Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. The A-Bomb Museum stands as a powerful testament to the city’s resilience and commitment to peace. As you wander through the exhibits, the stories unfold, commemorating the events of 1945 and emphasizing the importance of a world without nuclear weapons.
Later, stroll through the Peace Memorial Park, a serene oasis that invites contemplation. The iconic Peace Flame and the Children’s Peace Monument serve as poignant reminders of the city’s dedication to fostering a future free from the ravages of war.
From Hiroshima, embark on a short ferry ride to Miyajima Island, a haven of natural beauty and cultural treasures. The island is renowned for Itsukushima Shrine, an ethereal structure that appears to float on the tranquil waters of the Seto Inland Sea during high tide. Explore the vermillion-lacquered torii gate, a symbol of spiritual transition, and wander through the atmospheric corridors of the shrine.
As the day comes to a close, savor local delicacies on Miyajima, including the famous Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki or freshly grilled oysters. The island’s charming streets and alleys provide a delightful backdrop for leisurely exploration.
Reflect on the day’s journey as you return to Okayama, carrying with you the poignant stories of Hiroshima, the serenity of Miyajima, and a profound appreciation for the resilience of the human spirit.
Accommodation: Hotel Granvia Okayama
Included Meals: Breakfast
Luggage Note: Today all large luggage (anything larger than a carry-on) will be sent by ground courier to our next hotel in Kyoto as it cannot be transported on the bullet train. Please prepare necessities for one night in a backpack or small bag/duffel until reunited with our luggage tomorrow.
After a leisurely morning, take a high-speed adventure as you board the sleek Shinkansen train, whisking you from Okayama to Kyoto in a blur of efficiency and comfort. As the train glides effortlessly along the tracks, you’ll witness the changing landscapes outside your window, a transition from Okayama’s urban embrace to Kyoto’s timeless and historic beauty.
Upon arrival in Kyoto, your afternoon offers the promise of nearby exploration and discovery. The city, steeped in history and tradition, invites you to wander through its enchanting streets.
Spend the evening relaxing or shopping before dinner nearby with the group.
Accommodation: Kyoto Brighton Hotel (3 Nights)
The Kyoto Brighton Hotel is located in a quiet residential area, about a 5-minute walk from the Kyoto Imperial Palace, and is surrounded by historic shrines and temples, as well as many long-established shops that have supported Kyoto’s food culture, such as Japanese sweets, soy sauce, miso, and sake. The guest rooms are comfortable with a soothing color palette and deep space in the style of a Kyoto machiya (traditional townhouse). Because the hotel is located in a quiet residential area, you can spend your stay as calmly as if you were living there. In addition, the original beds designed for ultimate sleeping comfort and the bathrooms with a washing area will soothe the fatigue of your trip.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Today’s journey begins at the iconic Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, a shimmering masterpiece set amidst reflective waters and lush greenery. Explore the meticulously landscaped gardens that surround this architectural gem, basking in the tranquility that defines this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Next, venture to the Fushimi-Inari Shrine, a place where thousands of vermillion torii gates create a mesmerizing path up the sacred Mount Inari. As you ascend, the vibrant gates form a tunnel of spiritual energy, leading you to the summit where panoramic views of Kyoto await. The ethereal atmosphere of Fushimi-Inari Shrine makes it a spiritual sanctuary and a visual feast.
Continue your journey to the historic Kiyomizu-dera, a wooden terrace perched on the hills overlooking Kyoto. The expansive views of the city, framed by cherry blossoms or vibrant autumn foliage depending on the season, create a scene of breathtaking beauty. Explore the temple’s halls and savor the cultural significance that has made Kiyomizu-dera a symbol of Kyoto.
Pause for a delightful lunch at a local eatery, savoring Kyoto’s culinary delights that range from delicate kaiseki to savory street food. The afternoon invites you to explore the narrow alleys and hidden gems of Gion, where each corner reveals a piece of Kyoto’s cultural tapestry.
As the day progresses, immerse yourself in the enchanting ambiance of Gion, Kyoto’s iconic Geisha District. Stroll through the atmospheric streets, where traditional wooden machiya houses stand alongside teahouses and quaint shops. Keep an eye out for the elusive Geishas, whose presence adds a touch of mystique to the historic district.
Conclude your day with a sense of awe and appreciation for Kyoto’s timeless allure.
Accommodation: Kyoto Brighton Hotel
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Embark on a breathtaking journey through the heart of Kyoto’s lush landscapes with the Kibune to Kurama walking tour. This adventure invites you to step off the beaten path and immerse yourself in the natural beauty and spiritual significance that define these charming villages.
Your day begins in Kibune, a picturesque town nestled in the mountains. Traverse through narrow paths lined with traditional ryokans and charming tea houses. One of the highlights is the Kifune Shrine, where vibrant red lanterns illuminate the stone stairways leading to the sacred grounds. Feel the serene ambiance as you stroll along the riverbank, enveloped by the soothing sounds of flowing water.
Reach the village of Kurama, home to the sacred Kurama-dera Temple perched on the mountainside. Ascend the stone steps to the temple, where panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys unfold. Explore the temple’s historic halls, adorned with intricate carvings and artifacts that speak to the rich spiritual heritage of the region.
The walking tour also provides an opportunity to soak in the healing waters of Kurama Onsen, a hot spring that has been revered for centuries for its therapeutic properties. Relax and rejuvenate in the tranquil ambiance of the onsen, surrounded by the natural beauty that defines Kurama.
As the day concludes, descend from the mountains, feeling a profound connection to the landscapes and cultural treasures that have unfolded along the Kibune to Kurama walking tour. This optional adventure is not just a physical journey; it’s a spiritual odyssey through Kyoto’s timeless beauty, where each step brings you closer to the soul of Japan.
Accommodation: Kyoto Brighton Hotel
Included Meals: Breakfast
Luggage Note: Today all large luggage (anything larger than a carry-on) will be sent by ground courier to our next hotel in Tokyo as it cannot be transported on the bullet train. Please prepare necessities for one night in a backpack or small bag/duffel until reunited with our luggage tomorrow.
Embrace the tranquility of your final morning in Kyoto, savoring the essence of this enchanting city before bidding it farewell.
Board the Shinkansen train for a swift and comfortable journey back to Tokyo.
Join the group for a heartfelt farewell dinner, where you can share stories and laughter, reminiscing about the cultural wonders, vibrant experiences, and newfound friendships forged during your Japanese adventure.
Accommodation: Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba (1 Night)
Included Meals: Breakfast
Our tour ends today after breakfast at the hotel in Tokyo.
Make your way to the airport in time for your flight. We will provide options.
Included Meals: Breakfast
also important
International Flights
Please do not book your international flights until the journey has been confirmed and you’ve received the go-ahead from Ethos Journeys.
Check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change anytime. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please get in touch with your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.
Travel Insurance – IMPORTANT
Travel insurance is mandatory on all Ethos Journeys. We require that at a minimum you take a Travel Medical Insurance policy that covers you for travel medical expenses including emergency repatriation for the duration of your journey. However, we strongly advise that you consider a Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) Travel Insurance policy which should be taken as soon as you make your initial deposit.
What is the difference?
Travel Medical Insurance, also known as travel health insurance, is a short-term insurance designed to cover health care costs alone incurred outside of one’s home country. Covered costs could include expenses resulting from hospital room and board, an ambulance ride, emergency room care, surgery, and more. Depending on the particular policy, travel medical insurance may also include coverage for medical evacuation, political evacuation, terrorism, crisis response, natural disaster, accidental death and dismemberment, and/or repatriation of remains, among other benefits.
CFAR Travel Insurance is a short-term insurance which protects your financial investment in a trip—it often includes coverage for lost baggage, trip cancellation, trip interruption, and other losses incurred while traveling. Should your trip be cancelled or interrupted for a covered reason, a CFAR travel insurance policy will reimburse you for the eligible pre-paid and non-refundable portions of your trip. Depending on the policy, CFAR travel insurance will typically also reimburse you for costs resulting from unexpected medical expenses, travel delays and inconveniences, and lost, damaged, or stolen luggage.
Also please note that travelers frequently believe that their credit card company supplies travel insurance, but time and again, learn that only flight costs are covered, or there is a coverage limit. As such, we strongly encourage purchasing comprehensive CFAR insurance where you can obtain excellent coverage.
Transportation
On this journey, we will travel by air-conditioned private van, bullet trains, ferry and public transport at times.
Important Note About Luggage
One thing unique to our Journey to Japan is that each time we take bullet trains between cities, large luggage (anything larger than a carry-on) will be sent ahead by ground courier one day prior to our departure by train. Bullet trains allow luggage by reservation only, and there is very minimal space. To make each section of this journey as smooth as possible, please understand that large bags will be sent on the following schedule:
- Sunday, October 06: Luggage retrieved in Tokyo and sent to Okayama.
- Monday, October 07: Reunited with luggage upon arrival at hotel in Okayama.
- Wednesday, October 09: Luggage retrieved in Okayama and sent to Kyoto.
- Thursday, October 10: Reunited with luggage upon arrival at hotel in Kyoto.
- Saturday, October 12: Luggage retrieved in Kyoto and sent to Tokyo.
- Sunday, October 13: Reunited with luggage upon arrival at hotel in Tokyo.
It will be essential to bring a backpack or small duffel bag that you can use for one night’s worth of clothing and necessities on October 06, October 09, and October 12, when we will be without our large luggage/suitcases each of those nights.
Suggested Packing List
Documents To Print
• Flight Details
• Insurance Information
• Copy of Passport
Essentials
• A small backpack or duffel bag for packing/transporting necessities for the nights you are without your large luggage
• Cash, credit and debit cards
• Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
• Ear plugs
• First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
• Flashlight/torch
• Fleece top/sweater
• Footwear
• Hat
• Locks for bags
• Long pants/jeans
• Moneybelt
• Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)
• Reusable water bottle
• Shirts/t-shirts
• Sleepwear
• Sunglasses
• Toiletries (Preferably biodegradable)
• Windproof rain jacket
Warm Weather
• Sandals/flip-flops
• Shorts/skirts
• Sun hat/bandana
• Swimwear
Laundry
Laundry facilities are offered by hotels for a charge.
Visa and Entry Requirements
All countries require a valid passport (with a minimum of 6 months validity). You will receive a tourist visa upon arrival at the airport.
Spending Money
Every traveler is different, and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travelers may drink more than others, while other travelers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping, and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
Money Exchange
ATMs are found within main cities and generally accept cards on the Visa and Mastercard networks. It is a great idea to travel with both a Visa and Mastercard if possible, as while there is no hard and fast rule, some banks seem to only work with one brand of card.
Cash is recommended for times when ATMs are not accessible. Euros, British Pounds, and US Dollars are easily exchanged for local currency. Please note that you should bring some cash for emergencies, but carrying only cash is a high safety risk. ATM card/s and some money is the ideal mix.
As currency exchange rates can fluctuate often, we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com
Health
There are no specific health requirements for this trip. However, we recommend protection against typhoid, tetanus, infectious hepatitis, and polio. You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit, hand sanitizers / antibacterial wipes as well as any personal medical requirements.
Minimum Age
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied with Ethos Journeys. For minors traveling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
Disclaimer
The information in this trip details document has been prepared and provided in good faith. However, it is subject to change and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at the time of publishing. It may differ slightly from the one in any print materials. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements stemming from past travelers, comments, and our research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal to the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience.
VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days before travel in case any changes affect your plans.
Itinerary Disclaimer
While it is our intention to adhere to the route described, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary, and on occasion, it may be necessary or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region; any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered.
Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and are subject to vary due to local circumstances.
TO READ
Fifty Sounds, by Polly Barton – This is an essential read before you visit Japan, and for people intrigued by Japanese language and culture. It tells of one British woman’s journey to discovering, appreciating, and living the Japanese language while living on a quiet, remote Japanese island.
Hokkaido Highway Blues, by Will Ferguson – Treat yourself to fascinating anecdotes about Japanese folklore, language, history, fashion, food, everything. It’s such a great place to start when getting used to modern Japan. In other words, and quite surprisingly, it is one of the best books on Japanese culture.
A Brief History of Japan: Samurai, Shogun, and Zen, by Jonathan Clements – If you want to learn the truth about Zen, how the Samurai truly worked and behaved, and how exactly Japan paved its own road through Asian history, this is the book you need to dig into. It’s written with wit, wisdom, and playfulness, but packs a real knowledge punch.
Bending Adversity, by David Pilling – Discusses the bubble burst at the start of the ‘90s; it touches on issues of feminism and inequality. It interviews Japan’s most famous writers and artists to get an insider perspective.
Lost Japan, by Alex Kerr – Alex Kerr has a thing for traditional Japan, and as such he has produced one of the very best books on Japanese culture. He has studied its tea ceremonies, kabuki, and bunraku theatres, and is a master calligrapher. In Lost Japan, Kerr takes us on a personal and intimate journey through a life spent uncovering the parts of Japan that are vanishing.
TO WATCH
Drive My Car – If you were to watch just one recent movie about Japan, then make this one. It follows an actor whose wife dies and in dealing with his grief he ends up getting new work and needs a driver to help get him around. That driver is a young 20-year-old woman, and they develop a special relationship over time, and in doing so it helps him. A lot of this movie is set inside a car which may not sound so exciting, but the dialogue between the two is brilliant. Highly recommended.
Hiroshima Mon Amour – Directed by French New Wave filmmaker Alain Resnais and written by acclaimed novelist Marguerite Duras, Hiroshima mon amour is considered one of the best films made about the aftermath of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima.
Jiro Dreams of Sushi – An uplifting documentary about the power of perseverance, Jiro Dreams of Sushi tells the story of Jiro Ono, an 85-year old Tokyo resident considered by many to be the world’s greatest sushi chef.
Tampopo – Described as a Japanese ‘ramen western’, Tampopo is a satirical Japanese comedy about a truck driver who decides to stick around a roadside ramen noodle shop to help the owner improve her recipes.
TERMS & CONDITIONS
You must be 18 years old (except for minors accompanied by a parent or designated responsible adult) and in good health to join one of our tours. Acceptance of your booking is subject to our review of your application. We retain the right to request medical clearance or any other information or to refuse any applicant for any tour at any time for any reason whatsoever, at our sole discretion.
TO RESERVE
A 30% non-refundable* deposit is required to reserve your journey within seven days of submitting your trip registration, with the remaining 70% of the trip cost (including additional extensions or hotel nights) due by 15 May, 2024.
Unless otherwise indicated, all prices are listed in US dollars ($) and are subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances.
* If you are unable to travel and cancel in writing more than 90 days from the trip start date, we will hold 50% of your non-refundable deposit amount for use toward an upcoming trip with Ethos Journeys.
TRAVEL INSURANCE – IMPORTANT & REQUIRED
Travel insurance is mandatory on all Ethos Journeys. We require that at a minimum you take a Travel Medical Insurance policy that covers you for travel medical expenses including emergency repatriation for the duration of your journey. However, we strongly advise that you consider a Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) Travel Insurance policy which should be taken as soon as you make your initial deposit.
What is the difference?
Travel Medical Insurance, also known as travel health insurance, is a short-term insurance designed to cover health care costs alone incurred outside of one’s home country. Covered costs could include expenses resulting from hospital room and board, an ambulance ride, emergency room care, surgery, and more. Depending on the particular policy, travel medical insurance may also include coverage for medical evacuation, political evacuation, terrorism, crisis response, natural disaster, accidental death and dismemberment, and/or repatriation of remains, among other benefits.
CFAR Travel Insurance is a short-term insurance which protects your financial investment in a trip—it often includes coverage for lost baggage, trip cancellation, trip interruption, and other losses incurred while traveling. Should your trip be cancelled or interrupted for a covered reason, a CFAR travel insurance policy will reimburse you for the eligible pre-paid and non-refundable portions of your trip. Depending on the policy, CFAR travel insurance will typically also reimburse you for costs resulting from unexpected medical expenses, travel delays and inconveniences, and lost, damaged, or stolen luggage.
Reality is that for a few hundred dollars (dependent upon age, length of trip, location, etc.), you can usually secure coverage for full refund in the event that you have to cancel a several thousand dollar trip for any reason. This is more important than ever with all the cancellations and travel plan changes we all experienced as a result of Covid-19.
Also please note that travelers frequently believe that their credit card company supplies travel insurance, but time and again, learn that only flight costs are covered, or there is a coverage limit. As such, we strongly encourage purchasing comprehensive CFAR insurance where you can obtain excellent coverage.
REFUNDS & CANCELLATION
All cancellations must be submitted in writing and are refundable on the following basis:
- 61+ days before arrival date – 100% of the refundable portion
- 60 to 31 days before arrival date – 50% of the refundable portion
- 30 to 15 days before arrival date – 25% of the refundable portion, less domestic flight costs
- 14 days or less before arrival date – No refund
CLAIMS & REFUNDS
Refunds are not made for any missed services except for verifiable extenuating circumstances. Please see our Limits on Liability below. For verifiable claims to be considered, they must be received in writing within 30 days of the program’s termination and be accompanied by supporting documentation and/or a statement from the Operating Company verifying the claim. Any adjustment will be based on the actual price of the services involved and not on a per diem basis. Adjustments will not be made for unused sightseeing trips or meals. Ethos Journeys will not accept any liability for any claims not received within 30 days of the termination of your travel program. All claims for days missed while traveling should be made in writing within 30 days of the program’s termination.
For verifiable claims to be considered, they must be submitted to Ethos Journeys in writing along with supporting documentation within 30 days of the traveler’s return date from our planned itinerary. Ethos Journeys will make every effort to rectify situations of services rendered below standard. In this case, any refund would be made based on the actual price of the service(s) in question and not on a per diem basis.
If Ethos Journeys or its contracted partners cannot provide part or all of the travel itinerary, see the Changes section below.
CHANGES
Due to unforeseen circumstances, Ethos Journeys may need to adjust the travel itinerary, which could alter your program’s final price or design. While we make all of your arrangements in good faith, unforeseen circumstances may make it necessary to change hotels, transportation, or tour arrangements before or during your trip. We reserve the right to make itinerary and price changes as deemed necessary. As none of the accommodation, transportation, and tour guide providers are by owned by Ethos Journeys, we cannot be held responsible for such circumstances. We will pass any additional cost (or savings) on to the traveler.
HOTEL CHECK-IN & CHECK-OUT
Hotel check-out time is usually 12:00 PM. Extended check-in/check-out time may be granted, subject to availability and agreement by the participating hotels.
PASSPORTS, VISAS & OTHER TRAVEL DOCUMENTS
Be sure your passport is not close to expiring as some countries refuse valid passports soon to expire – generally, travel within six months of expiration will not be accepted. All travelers are responsible for ensuring that they have valid passports and visas, where necessary. Ethos Journeys cannot be held accountable for information on visa regulations or where local authorities do not obtain or accept passports or visas.
AIR TRANSPORTATION
Ethos Journeys does not book airfare to and from the travel destination. Once the traveler confirms the travel itinerary, he/she is responsible for ensuring correct arrival and departure dates/times. Ethos Journeys will not be liable for mistakes or errors in airfare bookings made by independent third parties. Change fees and/or airfare penalties may apply for travelers who miss flights in the itinerary.
Air transportation can be affected by weather, schedule delays, or cancellations which can affect the design of your itinerary (see Changes above).
LIMITS OF LIABILITY
Ethos Journeys, its employees, officers, directors, successors, agents, and assigns, does not own or operate any entity which is to or does provide goods or services for your trip. It purchases transportation (by aircraft, coach, train, vessel, or otherwise), hotel and other lodging accommodations, restaurants, ground handling, and other services from various independent suppliers. All such persons and entities are independent contractors.
As a result, Ethos Journeys is not liable for any negligent or willful act of any such person, entity, or third person. In addition and without limitation, Ethos Journeys is not responsible for any injury, loss, death, inconvenience, delay, or damage to personal property in connection with the provision of any goods or services, whether resulting from but not limited to acts of God, illness, disease, acts of war, civil unrest, insurrection or revolt, animals, strikes or other labor activities, criminal or terrorist actions of any kind, overbooking or downgrading of services, food poisoning, mechanical or other failures of aircraft or other means of transportation or for the loss of any transportation mechanism to arrive or depart on time.
RISKS
There are certain inherent risks in travel. These include but are not limited to hiking, walking safaris, climbing injuries, altitude sickness, and in all trips, dangers of animals, inaccessibility to medical attention, and difficulty in evacuation from remote locations in the case of a medical emergency. The passenger assumes all such risks concerning these possibilities and is now given notice that hospital and/or health facilities/personnel for treatment of serious medical problems are often unavailable and, further, that evacuation, if available, can be prolonged, complicated, and expensive. We assume no liability regarding the provision of medical care or evacuation services and, at this moment, provide notice that any of our staff or subcontractors who may provide emergency medical care in the field may not have had formal medical or first-aid training and would be acting only as a “good Samaritan.”
TRAVEL ADVISORIES/WARNINGS
The Traveler is responsible for informing about the most current travel advisories and warnings by referring to the U. S. State Department’s travel website at www.travel.state.gov/ or by phone at 1-888-407- 4747. In the event of an active State Department Travel Warning against travel to the specific destination location(s) of the trip, should The Traveler still choose to travel, notwithstanding any travel advisory or warning, The Traveler assumes all risk of personal injury, death or property damage that may arise out of the events like those advised or warned against.
ARBITRATION AGREEMENT
Any controversy or claim arising out of or relating in any way to these Terms and Conditions, to the Limits of Liability Clause, or any information relating in any way to the trip or to the journey itself shall be settled solely and exclusively by binding arbitration Orange County, FL, USA, following the rules of the Arbitration Association then existent.
TRAVELER REPRESENTATION
The Traveler represents that neither he nor she nor anyone traveling with him or her has any physical or other condition or disability that could create a hazard to himself or herself or other tour members. Ethos Journeys reserves the right to decline to accept anyone on a trip. Ethos Journeys reserves the right to remove from the trip, at his or her sole expense, anyone whose condition is such that he or she could create a hazard to himself or others or otherwise impact the enjoyment of other passengers on the trip.
pricing
DOUBLE OCCUPANCY: $6,595 USD per person
SINGLE OCCUPANCY: $7,595 USD PER PERSON
IMPORTANT NOTE: If we reach a minimum of 9 travelers, the above prices will be reduced by $800 USD per person. ($5,795 double | $6,795 single)
![walking tour](https://ethosjourneys.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/walking-tour.jpg)
INCLUDES
- 3 Nights Tokyo Hotel
- 3 Nights Okayama Hotel
- 3 Nights Kyoto Hotel
- 1 Night Tokyo Hotel
- Daily Breakfast & 3 Lunches
- Bullet Trains, Ferries & Private Transportation
- Bilingual Guide Throughout
- All Taxes & Gratuities
DOES NOT INCLUDE
- Round-Trip Flights to Japan
- Arrival Airport Transport
- Alcoholic Beverages
- Optional Tour Experiences
- Personal Expenses
- Travel Insurance (Required)
- Other Services Not Mentioned
NEED ADDITIONAL NIGHTS?
We will be happy to quote and arrange additional hotel nights if you wish to arrive a day early, or depart after the close of our journey.
ready to join an ethos journey?
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