2 for 1 China & Japan

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

• 7 nights of 4-star hotel accommodation in China
• 6 nights of 3-star hotel accommodation in Japan

• 3-night MSC cruise from Shanghai to Tokyo
• Sail aboard the impressive MSC ‘Bellissima’ ship

• Enjoy 22 meals including all meals while cruising

• English-speaking tour guides
• Airline taxes and surcharges

• Transportation by private air-conditioned vehicles
• One-way (economy class) high-speed train or domestic flight from Beijing to Hangzhou

• Return airport transfers

Today depart Australia on your flight to Beijing, China. On arrival, a tour representative will meet you at the airport to transfer you to the hotel.

Please note:
• Some travellers may depart on Day 0.
• Some travellers may have an overnight layover in China with accommodation and transfers provided by the airline.
• Some travellers may have an overnight layover in an Australian city with airport accommodation provided (excluding transfers).

Overnight: Jiangxi Grand Hotel or similar, Beijing

Meals included: In-Flight

After breakfast, your exploration of Beijing begins with a visit to a pearl factory to learn more about the fresh pearl industry. You'll then visit Tiananmen Square, one of the largest public squares in the world, followed by the Imperial Palace in the Forbidden City. The Forbidden City is officially known as the Imperial Palace Museum and was originally constructed by Emperor Yong Le, the third Emperor of the Ming Dynasty. Built between 1406 and 1420, the palace has been burnt down, rebuilt, sacked and renovated countless times. This means that most of the architecture now dates from around the 1700s and beyond.

Optional Tour: The Golden Mask Dynasty - 330 RMB (Paid On Tour)
Tonight, take the opportunity to attend an optional large-scale dramatic musical, ‘The Golden Mask Dynasty’.

Please note:
• Scheduling of attractions and activities may be alternated in Beijing across days 2 to 4.
• There is a daily limit on the number of tickets available for The Forbidden City, therefore entry cannot be guaranteed and is subject to availability. In the event that tickets can not be secured, a visit to The Temple of Heaven will be offered instead.
• The Temple of Heaven, founded in the first half of the 15th century, is a dignified complex of fine cult buildings that are set in gardens and surrounded by historic pine woods. In its overall layout, it symbolises the relationship between earth and heaven which stands at the heart of Chinese cosmogony and also recognises the special role played by the emperors within that relationship.

Overnight: Jiangxi Grand Hotel or similar, Beijing

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast, you'll travel to the Great Wall, stopping on the way to immerse yourself in four thousand years of jade history at a Jade Museum. In Chinese, jade is pronounced as “Yu” so enjoy observing skilled artisans at work as they create their intricate designs.

Afterwards, you'll take a scenic drive through the countryside and mountains to reach China’s most renowned monument, the Great Wall of China. You will visit the original Juyong Pass where the Great Wall meanders through China’s northern mountain ranges from the Yellow Sea to the Gobi Desert, a distance of more than 3500 miles.

Optional Tour: Hutong Pedicab Tour & Dinner - 330 RMB (Paid On Tour)
In the afternoon, take the opportunity to join an optional tour of Beijing’s 700-year-old Hutong area (narrow lanes) by old-fashioned pedicab. You will also visit a local family living in a traditional courtyard-style home to experience the local customs which includes enjoying a delicious home-cooked dinner. The optional tour also includes a visit to Shichahai, a historic scenic area consisting of three lakes (Qianhai which means Front Sea, Houhai which means Back Sea and Xihai which means West Sea). You'll also get to admire surrounding places of historic interest, scenic beauty and remnants of old-style hutong and courtyard local residences.

Please note:
• Scheduling of attractions and activities may be alternated in Beijing across days 2 to 4.
• The old-fashioned pedicab operation may be suspended without prior notice and a replacement optional tour will be offered.

Overnight: Jiangxi Grand Hotel or similar, Beijing

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch

After breakfast, you'll make a stop at Tongrentang to learn about traditional Chinese medicine. Afterwards, you'll then transfer to the railway station for a high-speed train ride to Hangzhou. Upon arrival, a tour representative will meet you to escort you to the hotel.

Please note:
• High-speed train tickets are subject to availability. If train tickets are unavailable, a domestic flight will be provided to Shanghai and a coach transfer to Hangzhou. Train (or flight) tickets will be confirmed in your travel documentation which will arrive 4-6 weeks prior to your departure date.
• If you do not provide your passport details at least 60 days prior to departure, you may not be in the same train carriage (or on the same train) as your companions and other group members.
• If you provide incorrect passport details, you may be required to purchase brand-new tickets at your own expense upon arrival.
• Seating arrangements on high-speed trains consist of a row of two seats and another row of three seats. Due to this, we cannot guarantee you a seat right next to your travel companion on this journey.
• Scheduling of attractions and activities may be alternated in Beijing across days 2 to 4.
• The order of Hangzhou and Suzhou may be swapped due to operational considerations.

Overnight: Fubang International Hotel or similar, Hangzhou

Meals included: Breakfast

Hangzhou is considered the tea capital of China so a visit to a local tea house is a must. Today you'll make a special visit to the Tea House at Meijiawu Tea Village in the hinterland of West Lake Park, considered one of the most important Longjing Tea productions in China. Enjoy the beautiful village scenery while learning about China’s special tea culture and how to appreciate the sophisticated taste and aroma of Longjing Tea. At the Tea House, you'll also learn how to make Longjing Tea including tea leaf picking, frying and tasting.

Afterwards, you'll enjoy a small boat ride on the UNESCO-listed West Lake to admire the ethereal beauty of Hangzhou’s willow-draped islands. You'll then drive to Suzhou and check in to your hotel for the evening (approximately a 2-hour coach ride).

Please note: Scheduling of attractions and activities may be alternated across days 5 to 8.

Overnight: Snowy Sea Hotel or similar, Suzhou

Meals included: Breakfast

Often called the ‘Venice of the East’, Suzhou has a history dating back to 514BC. Here you'll get the chance to visit the famous Lingering Garden, recognised along with other classical Suzhou gardens as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You'll then visit a fascinating silk spinning factory to see China's renowned and exquisite silk production.

Optional Tour: Grand Canal Cruise - 220 RMB (Paid On Tour)
This tour will take you from Shanghai (approximately 1.5 hours by coach) to visit the famous Bund where you can cruise along the Grand Canal to view life along China’s ancient waterway. Shanghai is divided by the Huang Pu River into eastern and western sections, modern high rises are seen on the eastern side while traditional European-style architecture may be seen on the western side. The Bund is a five-block riverfront promenade with many of Shanghai’s banks and trading houses.

Optional Tour: ERA & The Intersection Of Time - 390 RMB (Paid On Tour)
Tonight there is an optional activity to watch a superb and thrilling Chinese acrobatic show called “ERA: The Intersection Of Time” (or similar).

Please note: Scheduling of attractions and activities may be alternated across days 5 to 8.

Overnight: Courtyard Shanghai Jiading or similar, Shanghai

Meals included: Breakfast

This morning, you'll visit the China Art Museum which boasts a collection of approximately 14,000 artworks, mainly of Chinese modern art. Afterwards, you can enjoy free time at leisure or join an optional half-day tour of Shanghai.

Optional Tour: Half-Day Shanghai Tour - 240 RMB (Paid On Tour)
Join a half-day tour of Shanghai including a visit to Yu (Jade) Garden, believed to have been built more than 400 years ago with exquisite architecture that has made the garden one of the highlights of Shanghai. You'll see other attractions including Xintiandi, Old Town and Nanjing Road.

Optional Tour: Huangpu River Night Cruise - 280 RMB (Paid On Tour)
In the evening, take the opportunity to join an optional night cruise on the Huangpu River.

Please note:
• If the China Art Museum is closed or unavailable, a visit to Suzhou Museum will be provided in place of this visit on Day 5 of the tour.
• Scheduling of attractions and activities may be alternated across days 5 to 8.

Overnight: Courtyard Shanghai Jiading or similar, Shanghai

Meals included: Breakfast

(Departs at 17:00)

Today you will transfer to the Port of Baoshan where you will board the MSC ‘Bellissima’ ship for your 3-night cruise to Tokyo, Japan

Overnight: MSC ‘Bellisima’ Ship

Meals included: Breakfast; Dinner

Enjoy an exciting day at sea discovering the best that the MSC ‘Bellisima’ ship has to offer. Get ready to dive into one of our pools, let your hair down at the themed parties, treat yourself to something delicious in one of the amazing restaurants and much more! Head to the ultramodern London Theatre for a Broadway-style, play a game at the full-size bowling alley or make a splash at the Arizona Aquapark.

Overnight: MSC ‘Bellisima’ Ship

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

The choice is yours today as you enjoy a day at leisure cruising onboard the ship. Why not ride the MSC Formula Racer, drop by the TV Studio & Bar or shop at the 96-metre central Galleria Bellissima? When hunger strikes, head to Marketplace Buffet for a range of cuisines and snacks or Sea Pavilion for hot pot creations.

Overnight: MSC ‘Bellisima’ Ship

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

After disembarkation, you'll proceed to Tokyo and discover the city's must-see landmarks on an introductory tour. First, you'll visit the stunning Meiji Shrine which is a Shinto religious site that was dedicated to the Imperial Family in 1926. You'll have the opportunity to walk among the serene gardens surrounding the shrine as you listen to more details about its importance from your guide. You'll then visit the Imperial Palace, the primary residence of the Emperor of Japan. A world away from the hustle and bustle of the city, this calm green oasis covers an impressive 1.15 square kilometres in the central Chiyoda Ward.

In the afternoon, you'll check into the hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure.

Overnight: Hotel Mystays Tachikawa or similar, Tokyo

Meals included: Breakfast

Today you'll enjoy a free day to explore the vibrant metropolis of Tokyo at leisure or take part in an optional sightseeing tour of Hakone, Lake Ashi Cruise and Hakonetozan Cable Car (not included).

Optional Tour: Hakone, Lake Ashi Cruise & Hakonetozan Cable Car Tour – 15,000 JPY
Visit The Hakone Open Air Museum which creates a harmonic balance of nature and art by exhibiting various sculptures on its grounds in combination with views of the surrounding valley and mountains. You'll then enjoy a cruise on Lake Ashi, formed in the caldera of Mount Hakone after the volcano’s last eruption almost 3000 years ago. Today, Lake Ashi is often pictured with Mount Fuji in the background as a symbol of Hakone. Finally, you'll get the chance to ride the famous Hakone Ropeway and enjoy amazing views of Owakudani, a volcanic valley with active sulphur vents and hot springs as well as Mt Fuji and Lake Ashi.

Overnight: Hotel Mystays Tachikawa or similar, Tokyo

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast, you'll start with a drive to Mt Fuji’s 5th Station. Located 2300 metres above sea level, Mt Fuji’s 5th Station offers a commanding view of the Fuji Five Lakes area below as well as shrines, torii gates and souvenir shops. This makes it a popular spot even for those who do not intend on climbing the mountain

Afterwards, you'll continue to Lake Kawaguchiko to admire the scenery while enjoying a short cruise across the lake. The waters are overlooked by surrounding mountains, including Mt Fuji and Komagatake.

Overnight: Route-Inn Grantia Komaki or similar, Aichi

Meals included: Breakfast

This morning you'll visit Kiyomizudera Temple, one of the most celebrated temples in Japan. Added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1994, Kiyomizudera is best known for its wooden stage that juts out from its main hall 13 metres above the hillside. You'll then proceed deep into Kyoto and enjoy free time to explore the ancient capital or take the opportunity to join an optional tour of Kyoto (not included). You'll then leave Kyoto at approximately 17:00 to travel onwards to Osaka. 

Optional Activity: Kyoto Half-Day Sightseeing Tour - 5,500 JPY
The tour includes a stop at Fushimi Inari Shrine, an important Shinto shrine in southern Kyoto. It’s famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates which straddle a network of trails behind its main buildings. The tour continues with a visit to Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), a Zen temple in northern Kyoto that has gold leaf-covered floors on the top two floors. The last stop of the tour is the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, one of Kyoto’s top sights and for good reason as standing amid these soaring stalks of bamboo is like being in another world.

Overnight: Hotel Sobial Osaka Dome or similar, Osaka

Meals included: Breakfast

Today you can relax at the hotel, explore Osaka at your leisure or take part in an optional tour to Hiroshima. 

Optional Activity: Hiroshima Day Trip - 50,000 JPY
This morning you'll transfer to Shin-Osaka train station where your bullet train awaits, climb aboard and marvel at the train’s incredible velocity during a 2-hour ride to Hiroshima. On arrival, you'll continue to Miyajimaguchi by coach (or train) then board a boat travelling to the majestic Miyajima Island, otherwise known as Itsukushima (or Divine Island). You'll disembark and discover the natural and cultural treasures of the UNESCO-listed Island for 45 minutes with your guide. You'll see the shimmering Itsukushima Shrine before enjoying lunch at a local eatery (not included).

Re-board the boat and cruise back to Hiroshima to reflect on the history of the region as you contemplate the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, a historical site near where the atomic bomb exploded. You'll have the chance to see exhibitions that articulate the destruction the bomb caused and marvel at the city’s regenerative recovery. Finally, you'll board a bus to the Atomic Bomb Dome (Genbaku Dome), a skeletal structure that miraculously survived the 1945 attack. Afterwards, you'll return to the train station for the exhilarating return journey to Osaka on the bullet train, where the tour concludes.

Overnight: Hotel Sobial Osaka Dome or similar, Osaka

Meals included: Breakfast

Today you’ll cover 330 kilometres as you drive to the nearby city of Nara and enjoy a half-day sightseeing tour. You'll visit Nara Park, home to hundreds of free-roaming deer which you can feed senbei (crackers) that can be purchased at stalls throughout the park for 150 JPY a pack. Afterwards, you'll continue to the Shizuoka Region and check in at the hotel for an evening of leisure.

Overnight: Hotel MyStays Shimizu or similar, Shizuoka Region

Meals included: Breakfast

This morning you'll transfer to Tokyo Haneda or Narita airport for your return flight home to Australia.

Please note: Some travellers may be required to depart a day later. An additional night's accommodation at an airport hotel in Tokyo and transfers will be provided free of charge. This will not apply to passengers departing before 2am the following day as they will be transferred to the airport the day prior.

Meals included: Breakfast; In-Flight

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 the 30th of August 2024.

This travel offer is priced per person based on a twin share.

Single Traveller Supplement

For solo travellers, a full-priced voucher must be purchased.

Departure Dates

2024

August: 30

Please note: See checkout for live dates and availability.

Departure Cities

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

Departure City Surcharges

Brisbane*, Perth* & Adelaide*: $450 per person.

International Full-Service Airline(s) Used

• Cabin Class: Economy class.

• Airlines: Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, China Southern, Hainan Airlines, China Eastern Airlines, Air China, Sichuan Airlines, Tianjin Airlines, Capital Airlines, Xiamen Airlines plus any codeshare partners (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.

Domestic Airline(s) Used (If used in place of high-speed rail)

• Cabin Class: Economy class.

• Route: Beijing to Shanghai or Hangzhou.

• Airlines: China Southern, Hainan Airlines, China Eastern Airlines, Malaysian Airlines, Air China, Sichuan Airlines, Tianjin Airlines, Capital Airlines, Xiamen Airlines plus any codeshare partners (subject to availability).

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.

Arrive Early in Beijing, China

Unavailable.

Stay Behind in Tokyo, Japan

Unavailable.

Stopover Packages 

Unavailable.

Flight Class Upgrades

Unavailable.

Domestic Flight Information

Baggage allowance per person:

• 1 x 20kg of checked baggage.

• 1 x 7kg of carry-on baggage.

Cruise Arrival & Departure Times

• Shanghai: Departs at 17:00

• Tokyo: Arrives at 05:30

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

MSC ‘Bellissima’ Ship

MSC Bellissima will offer a stunning array of features to rival those of her sister ship, MSC Meraviglia. First of all, innovative MSC for Me technology provides an enhanced onboard experience, connecting you to your fellow guests, the crew and the ship itself. The two-deck inside promenade features a spectacular 260-foot-long LED dome and is lined with places to shop, eat and drink. There are 20 bars and 10 restaurants to choose from, including specialty restaurants. For entertainment, you can enjoy 2 brand new Cirque du Soleil shows designed especially for MSC Bellissima, and relax in the desert-themed Water Park which is an oasis for kids and families.

Galleria Bellissima

This 96-metre central promenade is filled with boutiques, restaurants and tranquil spots for shopping, eating, relaxing and socialising. And in the evening, it comes alive with music, parties and entertainment.

The London Theatre

The London Theatre is an ultramodern reinterpretation of traditional lines. You’d normally have to travel to New York to see top-end shows, but thanks to our Broadway-style theatres you can enjoy superlative entertainment with an international line-up of artists without having to leave the ship. Take your pick from a fabulous programme, there’s sure to be a show you love.

Atmosphere Pool

With around 10 square metres of public space per guest, poolside space on MSC 'Bellissima' is some of the most plentiful to be found at sea. Beautiful lighting, a giant screen and atmospheric design make the main pool area even more alluring after dark.

MSC Aurea Spa

The MSC Aurea Spa on MSC 'Bellissima' is a luxurious Balinese spa offering signature relaxation treatments to revitalise the body and soul. Complete with a thermal area, beauty salon and nail boutique, the MSC Aurea Spa will leave you feeling pampered from head to toe.

Carousel Productions at Sea

Enjoy an all-new entertainment concept blending breathtaking acrobatics, dance and live music to create exclusive original productions specially designed for MSC Meraviglia Class ships. It offers avant-garde artistic and immersive performances combined with innovative technology in a surprising mix of new expressions and experimentation that will make you feel part of the show. On board MSC 'Bellissima', you'll have the unique opportunity to admire two spectacular productions: SWEET, where sweet treats come to life in a candy-filled land, and MYÜT, an emotional journey through magical worlds filled with acrobats and dancers. The shows take place twice a night, six nights a week, only at the Carousel Lounge which is a glamorous, modern, technology-packed venue. Taste the Signature Cocktail while you enjoy a pre-show followed by this unique entertainment experience. 

Currency Used

$ USD.

Cabins/Staterooms

Guests on MSC 'Bellissima' can choose from a variety of comfortable accommodations, including sea-view balcony cabins.

Interior Cabin

• Surface approximately 10-15m².

• Bathroom with shower, vanity area and hairdryer.

• Comfortable double or single beds (on request).

• Interactive TV, telephone, wi-fi connection available (for a fee), safe and minibar.

• ZOE in-cabin Bluetooth speaker.

Oceanview Cabin

• Surface approximately 12-16m².

• Window with sea view.

• Relaxing armchair.

• Bathroom with shower, vanity area with hairdryer.

• Comfortable double or single beds (on request).

• Interactive TV, telephone, wi-fi connection available (for a fee), safe and minibar.

• ZOE in-cabin Bluetooth speaker.

Balcony Cabin

• Surface approximately 12-17m² and balcony approximately 4m².

• Sitting area with single sofa bed.

• Bathroom with shower or bathtub, vanity area with hairdryer.

• Comfortable double or single beds (on request). 

• Interactive TV, telephone, wi-fi connection available (for a fee), safe and minibar.

• ZOE in-cabin Bluetooth speaker. 

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

Accommodation Used

3 & 4-Star Properties (Self-Rated)

• Beijing: Jiangxi Grand Hotel or similar.

• Hangzhou: Fubang International Hotel or similar.

• Suzhou: Snowy Sea Hotel or similar.

​​​​​​​• Shanghai: Courtyard Shanghai Jiading or similar.

​​​​​​​• Tokyo: Hotel Mystays Tachikawa or similar.

​​​​​​​• Aichi: Route-Inn Grantia Komaki or similar.

​​​​​​​• Osaka: Hotel Sobial Osaka Dome or similar.

​​​​​​​• Shizuoka Region: Hotel MyStays Shimizu or similar.

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

Unavailable.

Maximum Room Capacity

2 people.

Child Policy

No children are allowed. Valid for travellers 18 years old and over.

Triple Share

Unavailable.

Bedding Configuration

2x single or 1x double (subject to availability).

Minimum group size 20, maximum group size 44 per vehicle.

Please note: A small group tour is defined as a tour with no more than 20 travellers per vehicle.

Optional Tours/Activities

• The Golden Mask Dynasty - 330 RMB per person.

• Hutong Pedicab Tour & Dinner - 330 RMB per person.

• Grand Canal Cruise - 220 RMB per person.

• ERA & The Intersection of Time - 390 RMB per person.

• Half-Day Shanghai Tour - 240 RMB per person.

• Huangpu River Night Cruise - 280 RMB per person.

• Hakone, Lake Ashi Cruise & Hakonetozan Cable Car Tour - 15,000 JPY.

• Kyoto Half-Day Sightseeing Tour - 5,500 JPY.

• Hiroshima Day Trip - 50,000 JPY.

Please note:

• Prices are based per person, are subject to availability, time permitting and weather conditions, and are payable directly to the tour operator in the currency specified.

• Some tours require minimum numbers to operate.

• Visa fees and requirements.

• Domestic transfers and flights not stated in the deal offer.

• Meals/beverages not stated in the deal offer.

• Highly recommended gratuities/tipping of $12 AUD per person, per day in China and $10 AUD per person, per day in Japan for land tour.

• Mandatory gratuities/tipping of $14 USD per person onboard MSC Cruise.

• Optional activities/tours.

• Personal expenses.

• Travel insurance.

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

China

September is one of the best months for travelling in China. It is noticeably cooler than the main summer months and there are fewer tourists. September marks the beginning of autumn weather in China. The summer heat begins to wane and the weather in the north becomes cooler. In South China, the hot and humid weather continues, but it is gradually replaced by cooler and drier weather by the end of this month.

Japan  

Early September is still considered summer in Japan, whereas late September is autumn. Temperatures are quite high, but generally cooler than sweltering July and August. Average September highs in the major cities of Honshu and Kyushu (Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Fukuoka) are around 81-84° F (27-29° C). Lows are around 70° F (20° C), which means it stays pretty warm overnight.

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

A leisurely level of fitness will be required. Leisurely is described as Light walking, including up multiple stairs, and occasional hiking, may involve uneven surfaces. Able to travel unassisted and get on and off vehicles and small boats. Suitable for most fitness levels and mobility.

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

Payments & Currency On Tour

China

Visa/MasterCard/Amex can only be used at some hotels and is not often accepted in local restaurants and supermarkets. Whilst WeChat and Alipay are commonly used payment platforms in China for most businesses, some travellers can experience issues due to internet accessibility and other technical difficulties. Cash is still widely accepted in China and Japan and most people still use cash on a daily basis. Therefore we recommend taking cash in either RMB or Yen (local currency in China & Japan respectively) or AUD and the tour guides can assist with currency exchange in China and Japan if required. Optional tours and tipping can be paid in local currency or AUD on tour, credit card and Alipay/WeChat are not accepted.

Gratuities/Tipping

Land

Gratuities (tips) are not included for the services of the tour leader (when available) and driver throughout the tour. The highly recommended tip is $12 AUD per person per day in China and $10 AUD per person per day in Japan. This covers the guide/leader and the driver and will be collected on tour.

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. MSC 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 at approximately $14 USD per person per day. 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.

China

A tourist visa for China is a strict requirement if travelling on an Australian Passport. Please note as of today you are required to attend a Chinese Visa Application Service Centre in person to apply for a visa or alternatively, use a registered agent to apply on your behalf. China Visa Application Service Centres can be found in Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Adelaide and Brisbane. You must attend the China Visa Application Service Centre relevant to the state you reside in. Please visit https://www.visaforchina.cn/ for more information. You will be able to start your visa application process once you receive your final travel documentation approximately 6 weeks prior to departure. 

Japan

A tourist visa is not required for Australian or New Zealand citizens visiting Japan for stays of up to 90 days for tourism, business, visiting friends or relatives, etc. that does not include remunerative activities.

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.