Luxury Japan Cherry Blossoms

• Return international full-service flights (economy class), departure city surcharges may apply

• 9-night Japan Circumnavigation cruise
• Cruise aboard the elegant ‘Queen Elizabeth’ ocean liner

• 3 nights of 4-star hotel accommodation in Tokyo

• Delight in daily high tea aboard the luxurious Cunard ship
• Enjoy 26 meals, including all meals whilst cruising

• Airport and cruise port and taxes

• Day 1 : Airport to hotel
• Day 3 : Hotel to port
• Day 12: Port to hotel
• Day 13 : Hotel to airport

• Arrive Early: Arrive up to 30 days before your tour starts. (Does not include hotel accommodation, meals or transfers)
• Stay Behind: Return up to 30 days after your tour concludes. (Does not include hotel accommodation, meals or transfers)
• Stopover Packages: Break up the long-haul flight with a stopover at a fantastic location. (See checkout for details)
• Cabin Upgrades: Cabin upgrades are available. (See checkout for details)
• Flight Upgrades: Upgrade to Business Class. (See checkout for details)
• Preferred Airline: Fly with a preferred airline. (See checkout for details)

Please note: Extra charges may apply. See the Important Info section and checkout cart for fees and details.

Today marks the beginning of your enchanting cherry blossom adventure as you depart from Australia (or New Zealand) to Tokyo. Once you have cleared customs and immigration, collect your luggage and head out to meet your transfer to head to your hotel. Once comfortably checked-in, the city Tokyo opens its vibrant tapestry for you to explore and discover with its bustling energy and myriad of attractions. 

Overnight: Hotel Gracery Shinjuku (or similar)

Meals included: In-Flight

Today, enjoy a free day to explore Tokyo at your own pace. Once a sleepy fishing village, Tokyo is now one of Japan's largest ports with ancient traditions and historic sites blending into modern culture. Walk among both neon-glowing skyscrapers and ancient temples before browsing stores showcasing the latest advances in technology. Retreat to one of the tranquil gardens surrounding the Imperial Palace, savour traditional cuisine at a Michelin-starred restaurant, or witness the centuries-old sport of sumo wrestling.

Overnight: Hotel Gracery Shinjuku (or similar)

Meals included: None

Enjoy your morning at leisure. When the time is right, your transfer will be ready to take you to the cruise port.
After checking in, spend the rest of the afternoon exploring the ship.

Overnight: Cunard ‘Queen Elizabeth’

Meals included: Dinner

On board Cunard's Queen Elizabeth, immerse yourself in a world of endless entertainment, luxurious accommodations and a diverse range of dining experiences. The ship's elegant art deco features and sparkling chandeliers seamlessly blend with contemporary attractions, ensuring a truly remarkable holiday experience. Venture to the Games Deck, a distinctive feature among Cunard’s ships, offering al fresco entertainment. Enjoy the great outdoors with games like bowls, deck tennis, and croquet, all set in a lush, shaded garden-like space. Sharpen your putting skills in the golf nets, with guidance from the expert entertainment team, or partake in friendly tournaments for added competition.
Indulge in the cherished Cunard tradition of Afternoon Tea, a daily ritual between 15:30 and 16:30 in the Queens Room. Here, under ambient lighting and amidst ornate furnishings, white-gloved waiters will present an array of delectable treats to your table. For a serene experience, unwind in the elegant conservatory, basking in its tranquil atmosphere. Satisfy your culinary desires at the main restaurant, where your table is reserved for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Exquisite menus, exceptional wines, and impeccable service await. Indulge in nightly entertainment at the Royal Court Theatre, offering a stellar array of choices. With music and dance performances, even mesmerising magic shows, every evening promises a memorable experience. Enjoy dazzling West End-style productions or abridged Shakespeare performances. The ship boasts a hand-picked lineup of talented vocalists, instrumentalists, aerial performers, illusionists, stand-up comedians, and variety entertainers. Experience the epitome of oceanic glamour on Gala Evenings, as fellow guests emerge from their staterooms bedecked in their finest evening wear, reminiscent of a scene from a Hollywood classic. The palpable sense of occasion fills the air, making your journey aboard the Queen Elizabeth truly unforgettable.

Overnight: Cunard ‘Queen Elizabeth’

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Savour the natural landscapes in Japan’s Aomori Prefecture of Honshu, the largest and most populous island of Japan. Aomori sits between the southern end of Mutsu Bay and the fine Hakkoda Mountains. At the heart of the Tohoku region, Aomori charms you with its unique blend of ultramodern architecture and sleepy fairytale castles, amid scented cherry blossoms. Visit the World Heritage Site of the Shirakami Mountains with its majestic forest of beech trees; follow the Oirase River from mystic Lake Towada and explore two national parks at Tsugaru to the west and Shimokita across Mutsu Bay. From red railed wooden bridges to the latest trends on the high street, old and new are yours to discover in Aomori as far back as the ruins of prehistoric Japan.

Overnight: Cunard ‘Queen Elizabeth’

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

On board Cunard's Queen Elizabeth, immerse yourself in a world of endless entertainment, luxurious accommodations and a diverse range of dining experiences. The ship's elegant art deco features and sparkling chandeliers seamlessly blend with contemporary attractions, ensuring a truly remarkable holiday experience. Venture to the Games Deck, a distinctive feature among Cunard’s ships, offering al fresco entertainment. Enjoy the great outdoors with games like bowls, deck tennis, and croquet, all set in a lush, shaded garden-like space. Sharpen your putting skills in the golf nets, with guidance from the expert entertainment team, or partake in friendly tournaments for added competition.
Indulge in the cherished Cunard tradition of Afternoon Tea, a daily ritual between 15:30 and 16:30 in the Queens Room. Here, under ambient lighting and amidst ornate furnishings, white-gloved waiters will present an array of delectable treats to your table. For a serene experience, unwind in the elegant conservatory, basking in its tranquil atmosphere. Satisfy your culinary desires at the main restaurant, where your table is reserved for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Exquisite menus, exceptional wines, and impeccable service await. Indulge in nightly entertainment at the Royal Court Theatre, offering a stellar array of choices. With music and dance performances, even mesmerising magic shows, every evening promises a memorable experience. Enjoy dazzling West End-style productions or abridged Shakespeare performances. The ship boasts a hand-picked lineup of talented vocalists, instrumentalists, aerial performers, illusionists, stand-up comedians, and variety entertainers. Experience the epitome of oceanic glamour on Gala Evenings, as fellow guests emerge from their staterooms bedecked in their finest evening wear, reminiscent of a scene from a Hollywood classic. The palpable sense of occasion fills the air, making your journey aboard the Queen Elizabeth truly unforgettable.

Overnight: Cunard ‘Queen Elizabeth’

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Home of the famous Manga ghost author Mizuki Shigeru, hauntingly beautiful Sakaiminato suggests many fascinating ways to spend time ashore. Begin by visiting Izumo Taisha’s grand shrine to marriage. Enjoy an invigorating outdoor natural spa in the Kaike Onsen hot springs. Or maybe visit one of the many museums and the rare original Japanese Matsue Castle.

Overnight: Cunard ‘Queen Elizabeth’

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Busan is South Korea's second largest city and seaport. A laid-back, metropolitan destination, its pace is slower and its diversity more pronounced than the country's capital city of Seoul. Busan has an intriguing medley of culture and history, beautiful natural settings and exciting adventures. It’s also near South Korea’s cultural capital, Gyeongju, and the fortress of Jinju. Busan cruises will transport visitors into the south-eastern province of South Korea. Here you will find a subtropical climate where hot humid summers are best enjoyed on the beach and cooler springs make for wonderful conditions to explore the city and its natural surroundings. Such is the city’s diverse array of offerings, you can easily enjoy a beach break, a cultural escape or an active getaway in Busan all in one trip. Foodies will also find a special place in the city, with a great range of restaurants and dishes promising a memorable culinary experience. As a coastal city, fresh seafood is a common sight on any menu and there are some fantastic dishes specific to Busan: Dong-nae pajeon is an affordable and popular dish consisting of a seafood and green onion pancake, while daegu tang is a tasty cod and vegetable soup, best enjoyed beachside.

Overnight: Cunard ‘Queen Elizabeth’

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Japan’s first real contact with the West was through Portuguese explorers and Jesuit missionaries, and then Dutch merchants. Apprehensive Shoguns thus closed Japan to foreign trade except at Nagasaki. Stop by Peace Park for a moment of serenity, or visit the Confucian Shrine to see the influence that the Chinese community has on Nagasaki.

Overnight: Cunard ‘Queen Elizabeth’

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

On board Cunard's Queen Elizabeth, immerse yourself in a world of endless entertainment, luxurious accommodations and a diverse range of dining experiences. The ship's elegant art deco features and sparkling chandeliers seamlessly blend with contemporary attractions, ensuring a truly remarkable holiday experience. Venture to the Games Deck, a distinctive feature among Cunard’s ships, offering al fresco entertainment. Enjoy the great outdoors with games like bowls, deck tennis, and croquet, all set in a lush, shaded garden-like space. Sharpen your putting skills in the golf nets, with guidance from the expert entertainment team, or partake in friendly tournaments for added competition.
Indulge in the cherished Cunard tradition of Afternoon Tea, a daily ritual between 15:30 and 16:30 in the Queens Room. Here, under ambient lighting and amidst ornate furnishings, white-gloved waiters will present an array of delectable treats to your table. For a serene experience, unwind in the elegant conservatory, basking in its tranquil atmosphere. Satisfy your culinary desires at the main restaurant, where your table is reserved for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Exquisite menus, exceptional wines, and impeccable service await. Indulge in nightly entertainment at the Royal Court Theatre, offering a stellar array of choices. With music and dance performances, even mesmerising magic shows, every evening promises a memorable experience. Enjoy dazzling West End-style productions or abridged Shakespeare performances. The ship boasts a hand-picked lineup of talented vocalists, instrumentalists, aerial performers, illusionists, stand-up comedians, and variety entertainers. Experience the epitome of oceanic glamour on Gala Evenings, as fellow guests emerge from their staterooms bedecked in their finest evening wear, reminiscent of a scene from a Hollywood classic. The palpable sense of occasion fills the air, making your journey aboard the Queen Elizabeth truly unforgettable.

Overnight: Cunard ‘Queen Elizabeth’

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Shimizu is a bustling modern port with ancient roots and many revered shrines to visit. You’ll no doubt find your gaze repeatedly drawn to the beautiful snow-capped cone of nearby Mount Fuji. A fitting starting point here is Sumpu Castle, where you can contemplate the moats, remaining stone walls and restored buildings dotted around this 400-year-old site. After all, this is the building that, to some degree, put Shimizu on the map. In becoming shogun, or supreme military leader in 1603, Tokugawa Ieyasu established the Tokugawa shogunate which would last until the Meiji Restoration of 1868; this was known as the Edo Period. Tokugawa Ieyasu himself built Sumpu Castle, then retired there in 1605, even though he remained leader of Japan until his death in 1616.
Shimizu is the tuna capital of Japan in terms of the amount caught, making it a popular choice on menus here along with shirasu, or whitebait. A local speciality is sakura shrimp, a small, crunchy variety found in Suruga Bay, and so named because it’s the colour of cherry blossom. If you’re after a memento or two of your day, bamboo products and lacquered goods make perfect souvenirs.

Overnight: Cunard ‘Queen Elizabeth’

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

As your wondrous adventure draws to a close, you will sail back into port, completing your unforgettable journey. After disembarkation, make your way to your pre-arranged transfer to head to your hotel for the night. After checking in, enjoy your last night in this engaging city.

Overnight: Hotel Gracery Shinjuku (or similar)

Meals included: Breakfast

Today, it’s time to say goodbye to Japan as your Cherry Blossom package comes to an end. When the time is right, meet your transfer to head back to the airport to start the journey home

Meals included: In-Flight

Welcome home!
We hope you enjoyed your time in Japan and look forward to having you travel with TripADeal again in the future.

 
After purchase, you will receive a receipt and a Purchase Confirmation, directing you to an online Passenger Information Form. You must complete the Passenger Information Form within 72 hours of purchase. Any special requests, preferences and optional extras MUST be clearly stated in your Passenger Information Form. Any change requested after submitting your Passenger Information Form cannot be guaranteed, is strictly subject to availability and will incur surcharges as outlined in the Schedule of Fees below.
 
On purchasing this Travel Offer, you are bound by the General Terms and Conditions and the specific terms and conditions outlined in this Important Information.
 
Please note: All countries and territories have different entry requirements in relation to vaccinations, quarantine/isolation periods and travel restrictions. Due to the evolving nature, we would ask all of our customers to monitor, meet and adhere to the specific requirements of their intended destination(s) in the lead-up to and immediately before travel, as well as any requirements post-travel upon their return.
 
CANCELLATION POLICY
Tour packages are non-refundable. If your tour package is affected by Covid-19-related travel restrictions and you are unable to travel, you will receive either a free date change (credit that is specific to your original package and purchase value) or an open credit less any non-recoverable supplier fees to the value of your original purchase for use on any other tour or package available via the TripADeal website.
 
Please note: Date change credits are subject to availability and not guaranteed until confirmed by TripADeal, not the tour operator you are due to stay with. We recommend you consider purchasing travel insurance with Covid-19 protection. The standard cancellation policy will apply if you cannot travel because you have tested positive for Covid-19.
 
Please note: All additional charges are payable in AUD (unless otherwise stated). 
 

 
This travel offer is valid for travel on selected dates until the 27th March 2025.
 
This travel offer is priced per person based on a twin share. 
 
Single Traveller Supplement  
For solo travellers, a mandatory single supplement

• Britannia Inside Stateroom: $3,600
• Britannia Oceanview Stateroom: $4,100
• Britannia Balcony Stateroom: $4,500
• Princess Suite: $9,500

Please note: Accommodation for single customers who are travelling on a tour or cruise package may be in a single room, depending on availability. 
 
Departure Dates 
2025 
March: 27
Please note: See checkout for live dates and availability. 
 

Departure Cities  

Sydney, Melbourne, *Brisbane, *Adelaide, Perth or *Auckland. 

 
Departure City Surcharges 
• Sydney, Brisbane & Adelaide: $200 per person.
• Auckland: $500 per person. 
 
International Full-Service Airline(s) Used  
• Cabin Class: Economy Class.
• Airlines: Qantas Airways, Japan Airlines, ANA, Singapore Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, Cathay Pacific, China Airlines, Vietnam Airlines, Virgin Australia, Air New Zealand or code share partners (subject to availability). (subject to availability).
Please note: We cannot accommodate one-way flights. Travellers must take all included flights within the package, and any flights intentionally forfeited will result in later flights being subject to cancellation. 
 
Missed Flights  
If you fail to arrive for your outbound flight, you risk all flight and land arrangements in your destination being automatically cancelled by the airlines and land operator, respectively. Additional fees may apply to reinstate these services. If you miss your flight for whatever reason, please contact us as soon as possible to make arrangements. 
 
Preferred Airline Surcharge  
Cabin Class: Economy Class.
• Qantas: $1260 per person.
• Singapore Airlines: $1260 per person.
Please note: 
• Preferred airlines are subject to availability. If we are unable to fulfil your request, the above extra cost will be refunded.
• On any upgrade purchase, short-haul flights and domestic flight sectors are not guaranteed, subject to aircraft configuration.
• In the event that a purchased stopover package and a purchased preferred airline upgrade are not compatible, you will have the option to receive a refund for the preferred airline upgrade or be offered an alternative stopover city option, e.g if you choose to fly with Singapore Airlines you cannot stopover in Dubai.
• Preferred airline refers to the marketing carrier and could include codeshare partners. 
 
Arrive Early Options  
• Tokyo - $300 per person.
High season dates range up to $700 per person, subject to availability.
Please note:
• This fee does not include extra nights' accommodation, meals or airport transfers.
• You may book a date to arrive early via our website but only a date that is within 30 days of the tour departure date. If you wish to arrive earlier than 30 days before your tour departure date, please call our friendly staff for availability and pricing. Additional costs may apply.
• No flight booking changes or cancellations are permitted after air tickets have been issued.
• Flight changes are subject to availability at the time of booking.
• A high season arrive early can be purchased for up to $700 per person, subject to availability.
• High season surcharges apply to flights departing between the below date ranges (only available for purchase over the phone):
6th December 2024 - 31st January 2025
28th March 2025 - 27th April 2025 
 
Stay Behind Options  
• Tokyo - $300 per person.
High season dates up to $700 per person, subject to availability.
Please note:
• This fee does not include extra nights' accommodation, meals or airport transfers.
• A stay behind can only be booked up to one month after your package end date upon check-out. Should you wish to stay later, please contact us to request availability. Additional costs may apply.
• No flight booking changes or cancellations are permitted after air tickets have been issued.
• Flight changes are subject to availability at the time of booking.
• A high season stay behind can be purchased for up to $700 per person, subject to availability.
• High season surcharges apply to flights departing between the below date ranges (only available for purchase over the phone):
28th March 2025 -27th April 2025
16th June 2025 - 20th July 2025
15th September 2025 - 12th October 2025 
 
Stopover Packages  
* Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Twin share: $900 per person/one way.
Solo Traveller: $1,200 one way.
Includes:
• 2 nights in 4-star accommodation.
• Daily breakfast.
• Return airport transfers.
Please note: 
• When a pre and post-tour stopover is chosen, the same stopover location must be chosen each way, due to the airline used.
• When selecting an Arrive Early or Stay Behind in conjunction with a Stopover Package, the stopover will take place after the departure date you select for your Arrive Early or Stay Behind.
• Stopover packages are subject to availability.
• In the event that a purchased stopover package and a purchased preferred airline upgrade are not compatible, you will have the option to receive a refund for the preferred airline upgrade or be offered an alternative stopover city option, e.g if you choose to fly with Singapore Airlines you cannot stopover in Dubai. 
 
Flight Class Upgrades  
Business: For pricing, please refer to the payment cart at checkout.
Please note:
• Flight upgrades are subject to availability and pricing changes (if we cannot fulfil your request, the upgrade cost will be refunded).
• On any upgrade purchase, short-haul flights and domestic flight sectors are not guaranteed. 
 

Cruise Arrival and Departure times: 

Please keep in mind that the provided cruise arrival and departure times are approximate and will be finalised upon receipt of your cruise tickets.

The ‘Queen Elizabeth’ ship

Onboard 'Queen Elizabeth' immerse yourself in her evocative art deco elegance. This stunning Queen exudes style and has an especially refined feel. Prepare yourself for a truly remarkable voyage.

'Queen Elizabeth' invites you to an uncrowded world where spacious decks set the perfect backdrop for you to savour a flawless Cunard experience. Immerse yourself in endless entertainment, luxurious accommodation and an array of dining choices. Her art deco features and gleaming chandeliers blend with contemporary attractions to ensure a remarkable holiday. Enjoy croquet on her Games Deck, stunning entertainment in her Royal Court Theatre or relax in her elegant conservatory. The choice, as always with Cunard, is yours.

On Board Currency : USD 

Cabins/Staterooms

Britannia Inside 

These well-appointed Britannia Inside staterooms are a haven of comfort and style during your voyage. Your Britannia Inside stateroom includes:

• Cunarder bed configurable to King-size or two Single beds. 
• Bathroom with a walk-in shower. 
• Satellite TV with movie and music channels. 
• Feature vanity and desk with hairdryer.
• UK, USA, European and USB power sockets. 
• Penhaligon's toiletries. 
• Bathrobes and slippers. 
• Tea and coffee-making facilities. 
• Welcome sparkling wine. 
• Complimentary room service menu. 
• A dedicated steward to keep your stateroom in fine order day and night.

 

Britannia Oceanview 

Offering special sea views, these oceanview staterooms provide a private enclave to watch the world go by. Your Britannia Oceanview stateroom includes:

• Lounge area with seating. 
• Cunarder bed configurable to king-size or two single beds. 
• Bathroom with a walk-in shower. 
• Window with sea view. 
• Satellite TV with movie and music channels. 
• Feature vanity and desk with hairdryer. 
• UK, USA, European, and USB power sockets. 
• Penhaligon's toiletries. 
• Bathrobes and slippers.
• Tea and coffee-making facilities. 
• Welcome sparkling wine. 
• Complimentary room service menu. 
• A dedicated steward to keep your stateroom in fine order day and night.

 

Britannia Balcony 

• Drink in sparkling sea views from your own private outdoor space in your Britannia Balcony staterooms. Your Britannia Balcony stateroom includes:
• Private balcony with seating and sea views. 
• Lounge area with seating. 
• Cunarder bed configurable to king-size or two single beds. 
• Bathroom with walk-in shower. 
• Satellite TV with movie and music channels. 
• Feature vanity and desk with hairdryer. 
• UK, USA, European, and USB power sockets. 
• Penhaligon's toiletries. 
• Bathrobes and slippers. 
• Tea and coffee-making facilities. 
• Welcome sparkling wine. 
• Complimentary room service menu. 
• A dedicated steward to keep your stateroom in fine order day and night.

 

Princess Suite

• Delight in a prime location on board with sea views that can be enjoyed from both in and outside your Princess Grill Suite. You’ll find thoughtful features and luxurious amenities, all organised by your dedicated steward to ensure you are always attentively looked after. Each Princess Grill Suite includes:
• Exclusive access to the Princess Grill restaurant, where you can dine any time at your reserved table.
• Private balcony with seating and sea views.
• Spacious lounge area with seating.
• Bedroom area with Cunarder bed configurable to king-size or two single beds. 
• Pillow concierge menu with a variety of types to choose from.
• Bathroom with bath and shower.
• Satellite TV with movie and music channels in lounge and bedroom areas.
• Feature vanity and desk with hairdryer.
• UK, USA and European power sockets.
• Penhaligon's toiletries. 
• Luxury bathrobes and slippers.
• Feature mini-bar with speciality tea and coffee making facilities.
• Complimentary spring water replenished throughout your voyage.
• Daily fresh fruit.
• Mini-bar packages available for purchase.
• Welcome bottle of sparkling wine.
• Complimentary room service menu.
• Dine in-suite from the exquisite Princess Grill menu.
• Exclusive access to the Grills Lounge and outside Grills Terrace.
• Concierge service for on board reservations and shore experiences.
• A dedicated steward to keep your suite in fine order day and night.
• Priority embarkation and disembarkation.

Please note: Cruise timetables are subject to change. Some cruise cabins may have restricted views, based on availability. Cruise cabins booked on a guarantee basis and are assigned by the cruise line prior to departure. Your cruise cabin number will be reflected in your final documents.

Accommodation Used:

4 Star Properties (Self-Rated)

Tokyo, Japan: Hotel Gracery Shinjuku

Please note: Accommodation/rooms offered are based on a lead-in room type and are subject to availability based on seasonality. In the instance a property is not available, a similar standard of accommodation will be provided. Properties will be confirmed and included in your travel pack, which you will receive 4-6 weeks before travel.

 

Extra Nights

Not available

 

Maximum Room Capacity

2 people

Child Policy

• No child discounts. The full price applies to all children travelling with their parents

• Valid for children 1 year-old and over

Please note: Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult 18 years old and over to travel. No unaccompanied minors are allowed.

 

Triple Share

Not available

 

Bedding Configuration

Twin / Double (subject to availability).

Optional Tours/Activities

Please note:

• Some tours or shore excursions require minimum numbers to operate.

• Shore excursions can be booked/reserved directly with the cruise line before travel (subject to availability)

• Shore excursions can also be booked whilst onboard (subject to availability).

• Shore excursion programmes and itineraries may vary depending on local conditions and/or any unforeseen events concerning the timing on the day of the tour. Some excursions are very popular, and therefore availability cannot always be guaranteed, it is advisable to book in advance to avoid disappointment.

• Visa fees and requirements 

• Domestic transfers and flights not stated in the deal offer

• Meals/beverages not stated in the deal offer

• Optional gratuities/tipping 

• Optional activities/tours 

• Personal expenses

• Travel insurance

• Mandatory city tax

TOUR GUIDE VS. TOUR LEADER

Tour Guide: 

Often locals with intimate knowledge of an area, its culture, and history. Their role entails providing commentary, routing the tour, and seeing that people have a good time. They are a licensed, qualified expert who supplies specific information on the history, art, architecture and culture of the city/village/attraction where they are guiding the tour. The guide meets the group at the required place and leaves it at the end of the tour; they do not travel with the group. 

 

Tour Leader:

An experienced person tasked with ensuring the smooth operation of tours, as well as providing practical support to passengers throughout the whole trip. Their role primarily includes assisting with accommodation, transportation between locations, and communication with tour guides at each stop. A tour leader may provide general guidance around a city or village and offer information on the place visited on the bus. However, they are not required to have specific art, architecture, or historical knowledge. They are not allowed to provide a guided tour or commentary of a city/village/attraction once there and, if caught doing so, can be fined. 

Please note: Tour leaders/guides are not a standard inclusion in all travel offers. Tour leaders/guides will only be made available when required to enhance the experience of the destination featured. 

 

CLIMATE & AVERAGE TEMPERATURES

Japan

Spring in Japan is magical! Cherry blossoms, welcoming weather, festivals, seasonal food. A great time to visit the country. The average temperature in March in the country is around 10°C, but the temperatures can differ greatly depending on where you are visiting. The weather and temperatures in Tokyo in March reflect the seasonal changes between winter and spring. It’s not too humid and it doesn’t rain often, and on sunny days it gets pretty warm, while in the evening you may need to wear a jacket or sweater.

  

South Korea

Spring in South Korea is a mild season with an average temperature ranging between maximum of 15.4°C and minimum of 10.7°C.

 

Please note: The Cherry Blossom can be difficult to predict. Every year is different and there are variations across the country. What’s more, there are multiple sakura varieties, each coming into flower at a slightly different time and lasting for a different period (most stay for around two weeks). Therefore we cannot guarantee the trees will be blooming in locations visited on this itinerary.

 

FLIGHTS

Seat Selection & Frequent Flyer Points:

We do not arrange seat selection. It is essential to highlight that some airlines do not allow pre-selected seats. We strongly suggest you contact the airline directly with seating allocation requirements and/or arrive at the airport earlier to arrange your seating. While we do not add frequent flyer member details to bookings, you can do this directly with the airline once you have your flight information.

 

Passport Validity:

Customers must provide valid passport details either at the time of purchase or no later than 45 days before the departure date. Failure to do so may result in the cancellation of the booking. Customers will be responsible for any costs and fees incurred in this instance.

 

CRUISE

Embarkation / Disembarkation:

• Begins approximately 2 hours after docking.

• Due to security reasons, all guests must be on board 2 hours before sailing.

• Itineraries are subject to change at any time without notice.

• Check your specific sailing for exact departure and arrival times. All times are local to the port.

Please note: Strict Covid-19 terms may also apply regarding proof of insurance covering Covid-19 and/or vaccination. Please refer to the cruise lines’ terms and conditions for further information before boarding.

 

Cruise Loyalty Discounts:

Please note: Travellers must contact the cruise line directly upon receiving their travel documents in order to request any membership benefits they may be entitled to.

 

COACH TOUR

Meals:

For meals not included, the tour leader (when available) will offer assistance with reservations, suggestions and directions to local restaurants. It is your responsibility to notify us of any dietary requests/requirements. Please note: We will do our best to meet your requests/requirements; however, we cannot guarantee that we will always be able to.

 

Luggage:

You will be responsible for all your personal belongings whilst on tour. You must carry your own luggage from the vehicle to the hotel room and back to the vehicle. The driver will assist with the uploading and unloading of bags from the vehicle.

 

OTHER

Mobility:

If you require wheelchair access please contact our friendly sales and service team to inquire on your behalf.

 

Fitness Level Required:

An Easy / Low level of fitness will be required.

Easy / Low is described as Light walking on well-maintained surfaces, occasional climbing of stairs and ability to get on and off vehicles without assistance and stand for a minimum of 30 minutes in hot/humid conditions. A general level of fitness and mobility.

Please note: If you have any concerns, please consult your healthcare provider prior to purchase/travel.

 

Yellow Fever:

A valid international certificate of vaccination against Yellow Fever is required in many countries. You may need to present this on arrival at the airport or border crossing. Some countries will refuse entry if you are unable to present your certificate. It's also common for your home country to request a Yellow Fever certificate upon arrival.

You must check with your doctor well before leaving home about the Yellow Fever requirements for the countries you'll be visiting.

 

Gratuities / Tipping:

Please note: Tipping for services provided is always a matter of personal discretion; however, please be aware that many locals consider tipping part of their normal remuneration, and they may approach you for payment; there's no need to be intimidated by the request.

 

Cruise

Gratuities (tips) are not included for the cruise staff's services throughout this tour's cruise component. Cunard is an internationally registered company & operates to US & European standards, both of which have an economy driven by a tipping culture. Gratuities are expected on your cruise and will be charged to your onboard account as follows:

• Britannia Staterooms (Inside, Ocean View & Balcony rooms): $14.50 USD per person per day.

Please note: If you have any questions regarding the gratuities on your cruise, please speak to the guest services staff onboard the ship.

 

Sightseeing:

Please note: If entry to a site is affected by changes in operating hours or public holiday closures, your itinerary, where possible, may be adjusted, or a similar activity will be offered in its place (subject to availability).

 

Shopping:

Shopping overseas can be a daunting and confusing experience, especially when there is a language barrier. Please be very cautious when foreign currencies and prices are involved. If paying by credit card, please pay close attention to the amount you are being charged and keep all your receipts. 

Do not make any purchases you are not comfortable with or feel pressured into. If you are uncertain or need assistance with the language barrier, please seek assistance from your Tour Guide/Leader.

Please refer to our Terms and Conditions regarding shopping for further information.

Japan

Australian passport holders are visa-exempt for a stay of up to 90 days when travelling as a tourist.

 

South Korea

Australian passport holders no longer need to apply for a Korean Electronic Travel Authorisation (K-ETA), under a temporary exemption in place until 31 December 2024. Be sure to keep an eye on your visa requirements for entry into South Korea after this date for your 2025 departure.

Important: 

• Please start arranging your visa three weeks before departure to account for any delays due to consulate operating hours.

• Visa rules may have changed since Covid-19. Some countries and airlines may require you to obtain an additional visa before arrival. Please check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering.

 

Please note: 

• Passengers who are not Australian citizens must also check with the respective consulate or visa agency to determine what their visa requirements are and what personal identification is required.

• It is also important to note that some areas of employment, such as journalism, government authorities and charity organisations, may have additional restrictions in applying for visas. This may, in turn, affect the type of application required.

Embarking on your next trip is exciting, and while you hope the unexpected does not happen, it is best to be prepared. We strongly recommend you take out travel insurance when making your booking. Whether it’s a potential medical emergency, a flight cancellation, a delayed suitcase, or an unforeseen event, it's important to ensure you're adequately protected. For more information or advice visit https://www.tripadeal.com.au/travel-insurance

Voluntary Changes

This includes booking changes requested by you, including but not limited to those changes requiring an airline ticket or a Purchase Confirmation reissue.

• Changes - $100 AUD per booking and any additional charges applied by the airline/cruise company/accommodation/other travel providers.

 

Name Changes Due To Passenger Error

• If the incorrect name has been provided, charges of $100 AUD per booking and any additional charges applied by the airline/cruise company/accommodation/other travel providers.

 

Supplier Fees

In the event the tour package you have purchased is unable to proceed, and/or a travel Supplier is unable to fulfil the tour due to external circumstances (Limitation of Liability e.g. a Force Majeure event), there may be a fee or amount of money that is withheld by our Suppliers and is unrecoverable. This may be due to non-refundable airline tickets, cancellation penalties with cruise cabins or unrecoverable payments with our land/accommodation partners. If refunds are not available from Suppliers, we will endeavour to obtain a travel credit on the best terms available and communicate these outcomes to you. In the event we are unable to obtain a refund or travel service credit, or part thereof, this cost is passed on to the customer as a Supplier Fee.