My trip to China was absolutely amazing! From the bustling streets of Beijing to the stunning landscape of Guilin, every moment was filled with incredible sights and experiences. The local guides were knowledgeable and friendly. It was a perfect mix of history, cutlure, and adventure.
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Ship Cabin
Age Range
1-85 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Beijing, Guilin, Shanghai, Xian
Beijing, Guilin, Shanghai, Xian, Yangtze River, Yangtze River, HB, Chongqing
Japan- an incredibly fascinating country with a culture like no other. The 2 week bike trip was a wonderful way to start to get to know Japan. Of course cycling is the best way to travel anywhere but having guides that explain their beloved country, teach you some of its culture, try to teach you the social skills that the Japanese excel at, getting you to test all the interesting food, giving history lessons and nature lessons, explaining the Shinto or Buddhist religion all the while giving you a great cycling experience makes the entire experience beyond memorable. The choice of the route gave us a good variety places to see. Staying in the Japanese inns ( ryokans) was amazing and definitely a must on any Japan trip. The food is an experience all on its own and if you are a fish lover than you will be in paradise. I really felt that the trip was complete and didn't just focus on one element of Japan so I never felt that I had too much of any one thing which was great. The description of the tour corresponded to what the trip really was and that is always appreciated. In the end, I didn't have too many preconceived notions of what I would be seeing and I can tell you that I was constantly amazed and ended up having enormous respect for the Japanese and their way of life. I thought my own country of Switzerland was well run but Japan wins on that respect. Kudos to the people of Japan and their being so courteous towards us tourists. Weeks later I am still feeling the effects of this trip and it is wonderful. Oh and thanks to Mother Nature for blessing us with the cherry blossoms.
Bicycle toursBeach
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Wonderful trip, ideal if you want a flavour of Japan- visiting a number of fascinating places. Fast paced with lots of walking and train travel. Doni was an excellent tour guide - friendly, caring, organised, spoke impeccable English and was exceptionally knowledgeable; giving us a fantastic insight into the culture, customs and history of Japan.
Train tours
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Guest House, Hotel, Villa
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Tokyo, Osaka, Miyajima, Kyoto, M
Tokyo, Osaka, Miyajima, Kyoto, Matsumoto, Jigokudani, Kanazawa, Hiroshima
This was an excellent trip that we thoroughly enjoyed, giving an insight into contrasting landscapes/areas of Japan and to its culture and food. After initial exploration in and around Kyoto, the four days on the Kumano Kodo trail were quite demanding (particularly because it was so hot on our departure) but we got a fascinating insight into one of the more rural areas, staying in traditional Japanese hotels. A good proportion of the trail itself was in trees with occasional viewpoints and shrines, it also passed through villages and rural settings. The trails are well made and on some days the walking was long, as set out in the trip notes. The traditional Japanese food we ate every day was elaborate and carefully prepared – a bowl of sticky rice and an array of up to around 10 other small dishes of food for each person – at each meal, including breakfast; lunches were bento boxes. There was much fresh seafood by the sea. Travelling on the efficient Japanese public transport was interesting and enjoyable as it is indeed very punctual, but also uncrowded and generally very comfortable. The last couple of days in Tokyo were different again – a short time to get an impression, but as we are not really city people, this was fine.
Trekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Discover the very best of Mongolia, from the bustling capital Ulaanbaatar we journey across the steppe to Kharkhorin. We will encounter ancient Buddhist monasteries and the remarkable diversity of the Gobi Desert; sacred mountains, dinosaur ‘cemeteries’, flaming cliffs, singing sand dunes and spectacular canyons.
Deserts and canyons
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
12-90 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Ulaanbaatar, Gobi Desert, Khusta
Ulaanbaatar, Gobi Desert, Khustain Nuruu National Park, Khongoriin, Flaming Cliffs, Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park, Bayan Gobi, Kharkhorin, Orkhon Valley, Bayanhongor, Ih Bogd Uul
Immerse yourself in the ancient and modern cultures of Japan. Learn the art of the tea ceremony, and stand before the famous Senso-ji Buddhist temple. Tour Matsumoto Castle, known as the “Crow Castle” for its black exterior. Taste legendary Hida beef and sip sake at a local brewery. Delve into Kyoto, the marvelous cultural capital of Japan. Board the Shinkansen “bullet” train to travel to Hiroshima to visit Shrine Island and the Peace Memorial Museum. Absorb the beauty of the Golden Pavilion and the majesty of Nijo Castle. Japan slowly draws you into its eclectic culture and charm, revealing incredible moments every step of the way.
Great trip but with long bumpy off road drives. Accommodation in Gers the first week was very basic, Gers having big gaps for cold air and small animals to enter. Some of the shared showers only had cold water. I slept in my coat a couple of nights in the mountains as only 5 degrees and too cold to face a tepid shower. Food however was a surprise being a non red meat eater, the alternative was chicken with lots of fresh salads, vegetables and some fruits.
Our guide Sara was nice but lacked the skills for a large group. I had no complaints but some of the group had issues which were resolved and avoided at the next stop. Some mis information was given, so we were a little confused.
We managed to arrange with Sara and Explore a trip to the Genghis Khan statue and museum at an extra cost the last day which was worth the detour.
Camel riding in the Gobi was fun and for half hour we paid around £5.
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Tent
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Ulaanbaatar, Yol Valley, Dalanza
Ulaanbaatar, Yol Valley, Dalanzadgad, Baga Gazriin Chuluu, Hustai National Park, Khogno Khan, Erdene Zuu Monastery, Orkhon Valley, Bayanzag
From Beijing’s imperial treasures to the panda-filled charms of Chengdu, the 'Traditional China and Chengdu' tour delivers a 14-day city sightseeing experience tailored for seniors. With all accommodations, transport, and meals included, guests can relax and focus on absorbing China’s history and culture. The easy activity level ensures accessibility, while the tour’s unique selling point is its inclusion of Chengdu—famed for its pandas—adding a memorable wildlife element to the classic Chinese itinerary.
Discover Japan's enchanting culture and mesmerizing landscapes on an unforgettable adventure. Immerse yourself in vibrant Tokyo, visit historic Kyoto, and marvel at the iconic Mt. Fuji. Experience traditional tea ceremonies, explore ancient temples, and relax in hot springs. Enjoy mouth-watering Japanese cuisine, from sushi to ramen, in authentic local settings. Engage in hands-on cultural workshops and witness the captivating beauty of cherry blossoms or autumn leaves. Embrace the spirit of Japan with this ultimate travel experience.
Walking tours
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Discover the heart of China during this 14-day tour, commencing in Shanghai. Head to Beijing, where you'll explore the Forbidden City, Great Wall and historic Hutongs. Journey on to Luoyang to witness the Longmen Caves and the Shaolin Kung Fu Temple, then marvel at Xi'an's Terracotta Warriors. After a flight to Guilin and immersive explorations of Yangshuo and Longsheng, head to Shanghai and explore at your own pace.
Vincent, our tour guide, was absolutely top-notch! Out of my travels to 65 countries, he stands out as one of the best. With his thoroughness, people skills, and great sense of humor, he made the entire experience unforgettable. An amazing experience for us - very well organised tour.
City sightseeing
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Often overlooked for the more familiar golden triangle of Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka, travelling north from Tokyo to Sapporo will reveal many natural and man-made treasures just waiting to be discovered. Explore the natural treasures of North Honshu such as the caldera created Lake Towoda and Oirase Stream, Towada - Hachimantai National Park, Genbikei Gorge and Matsushima Bay – for centuries considered one of Japan’s three most scenic views.
Relish the full Japanese cultural experience of staying in an onsen in Hanamaki and try a variety of hands-on crafts to bring home as mementos. Discover the breath of Japanese history from old postal towns with Samurai warlords, mansions and Endo Castles to ancient Jomon archaeological sites and thousands of years old temples, which rival those of Kyoto. Whether your fancy is tasting chocolate or famous Japanese beer, steak or seafood, this itinerary has it all either as a first-time traveller or return visitor to the wonder that is Japan.
