Day 1
Australia to Tokyo
Depart Australia on an overnight flight to Tokyo.
One of the World’s most cutting-edge capitals, Tokyo is a city of contrasts. Famous for its cutting edge modernity, neon-lit landscape and towering skyscrapers it is also home to sprawling parklands, peaceful shrines and temples and lovingly tended gardens. Despite its love affair with manga pop culture, fashion, high-tech trends and conspicuous consumption, below the surface is a city that has its roots in an ancient heritage.
Join us to experience the thrill of Tokyo.
Day 2
Tokyo
Arrive early in the morning. Drop off your bags at your hotel, right in the heart of Tokyo’s dynamic business, shopping and entertainment centre. Free day to settle in and relax.
Wander through the nearby gardens and catch your first look at the cherry blossoms.
Accommodation: Hilton Hotel
Day 3
Tokyo
Today begins with a unique insight into the world of Sumo, visiting a Sumo training “stable” to watch how these built sportsman refine their technique and build up their strength. Afterwards, you can sample some of their diet at the nearby Hananomai restaurant.
For a change of pace, stop-off at the Imperial Palace to walk around its stunning outer grounds and surrounding moats and to admire its intricate architectural features. This is the primary residence of the current reigning Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko.
Tucked away from the frenetic modern city is a large forested area within which you will find the Meiji Shrine. Watch a traditional Shinto blessing and be purified yourself (should you need it). Enjoy a fascinating dance by the Miko (Shrine maidens) clad in beautiful robes of red and white.
This evening enjoy a fantastic and entertaining teppanyaki feast.
Day 4
Tokyo - Mt Fuji
Today leave Tokyo behind for Mt Fuji, driving through countryside with volcanoes to one side and the Pacific Ocean to the other. Weather permitting, travel to Mt Fuji’s 5th station from which there are panoramic views enhanced by the spring cherry blossoms. Descend to Fuji Five Lakes which act as natural reflecting pools for the mountain’s perfect cone – a photographer’s dream.
Return to the hotel in the late afternoon. You may wish to gather a group of colleagues tonight for some karaoke.
Accommodation: Hilton Hotel
Day 5
Tokyo
You will immediately see the contrast of old and new when you visit Hamarikyu garden. Built as a feudal lord’s Tokyo residence and duck hunting grounds during the Edo Period (1603-1867), its tranquil ponds reflect the towering skyscrapers that surround it.
From here board a ferry to cruise along the Sumida River, with some of the city’s best vistas, and disembark at Asakusa to experience the back streets of Tokyo’s old town by rickshaw. To get a birdseye view of Tokyo, ascend to the observation deck of Tokyo Skytree, the world’s second tallest building at a staggering 634 metres. A fantastic panoramic photo opportunity!
The evening is free for you to embrace the buzz that is Tokyo. Perhaps a visit to Shibuya Crossing, the city’s version of Times Square.
Accommodation: Hilton Hotel
Day 6
Tokyo - Kyoto
Travel to Kyoto by bullet train to join the main conference group.
End of arrangements
Please note that this itinerary and costs may be subject to change.