Japan – Kyoto Weekend:

Dates:	Friday, April 2 to Monday, April 5
Price:	RMB 11,950 p.p.
	Single supplement: RMB 2,290
	Child w/o bed: RMB 8,950
Deposit:	Due by March 1
Balance:	Due by March 15
(Prices exclude airport taxes and optional excursions to Nara or the Himeiji Castle)

Onsens, Kimonos, Shinto shrines, tea ceremonies – all are alluring images of Japan, and Kyoto is undoubtedly where tradition and culture is at its best. Kyoto was the capital of Japan for more than 1000 years and is endowed with beautiful temples, castles and gardens. On this trip, we will visit some of the highlights as well as have free time to walk through many of the historical areas.

DAY 1
Fly from Shanghai to Kansai Airport. Upon arrival, we will drive about two hours to Kyoto and check into the Kyoto Royal Hotel and Spa for three nights. In the afternoon, we will visit the beautiful Kiyomizu Temple. Besides its outstanding architecture, it is also one of the best places to view the cherry blossoms and to get a panoramic view of Kyoto. Afterwards, we will visit the “pottery street” (a specialty in Kyoto), which is lined with many old houses, shops and galleries. The walk ends near Heian Shrine where we will make a quick visit. This evening, we will be treated to a welcome dinner.

DAY 2 
This morning, we will visit the gorgeous Ginkakuji, commonly known as the “Silver Pavilion.” From here, we will take the famous Philosopher Walk - a quiet & meditative pathway that winds its way along a lovely tree-lined canal. After lunch, we will go to the medieval Nijo castle, which was the seat of Japanese power for many centuries. Then, we will watch a kimono show in the Nishijin Textile Center and, of course, we will get a chance to shop.

DAY 3
Today, we will have our own leisure time. There are many possible options – visit more of the city’s outstanding gardens, museums & temples, or take an optional full day excursion to Nara, the oldest capital of Japan, or plan an optional full day excursion to Himeiji Castle (rated by many as the most outstanding castle in Japan).

DAY 4
The morning is free until the two-hour transfer back to Kansai Airport for the early evening flight back to Shanghai.