Old Buddha statues in temple in Ayutthaya, Thailand

Asia

Name: Splendours of Japan
Brand: Trafalgar
Price: 5480.0 GBP
Availability: InStock
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Destination Guide

As the world leader in travel experiences since 1947, we connect you to the real Asia in a way like no other. This dense and sprawling continent allures visitors seeking an encounter with the exotic. Home to 48 countries and more than half of the world's population, the list of soul-stirring moments and heart-pounding monuments found here is seemingly infinite. Journey with us as we navigate its diverse terrain and varied rituals, sharing in moments that will challenge your beliefs and inspire your outlook. We'll encounter the energetic streets of Tokyo, unwind on the beaches of Thailand, and taste the Imperial era in slices of seasoned crispy skin duck. In Vietnam, we'll witness life at sea surrounded by limestone islands, while in Cambodia, the re-emergence of a soulful culture will stir us to the very core. Art, culture and history collide here in the most unexpected moments, from clambering into a rickshaw to receiving a bowl of Pho noodle soup. Entire days filled with wide-eyed amazement. Travel with us and unlock the infinite possibilities thanks to our exclusive Trafalgar Highlights.

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Novice monk jumping on traditional temple in Myanmar

Asia at a glance

Wander the energetic streets of Tokyo, unwind on the beaches of Thailand, see the limestone islands in Vietnam, climb Mount Fuji in Japan and discover the soulful culture of Cambodia. Join your expert Trafalgar Travel Director as you explore the diverse cuisine, culture and history of this alluring continent.

Countries

Largest country

China

Smallest country

The Maldives

"Every day is an adventure in Asia and I love introducing our guests to the diverse cultures, cuisines and landscapes of this continent."

Tour Director

Admire the iconic Great Wall of China

Feel the enormity of China's Great Wall, stretching as far as the eye can see through luscious green valleys. With some fragments built nearly 3000 years ago, the historical significance of this fortification is not to be missed. Tackle just a small length of this 21,000-kilometre UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Wander through Angkor Wat

Take a journey to the world's largest religious monument and watch the sunrise onto the stillness of the Angkor Wat temple complex. The crumbling mosey portions of the Hindu turned Buddhist structures hold an eerie beauty that will stir you to the very core.
Enjoy some quality 'Me' time in Thailand

Land of smiles, cheap cocktails and expert massages, a trip to Thailand is a chance to unwind. Spend days floating in the Gulf of Thailand and roaming through shopping markets, interrupted only by fragrant Panang curries and fresh coconuts to cool you down.
Sail Halong Bay

Climb aboard a traditional wooden boat and take in the beauty of Vietnam's sea of limestone islands. The dramatic setting of Halong Bay will dazzle as you drift slowly around the emerald waters past many families that call the water home. An essential part of Asia travel packages, it has been named one of the new natural wonders of the world.
Stroll down the busy streets of Tokyo

Home to almost 14-million, the streets of Tokyo buzz with an energy that is hard to resist. Navigate through the swarm of pedestrians at Shibuya Crossing and admire elaborate dress sense in Harajuku. Even those called by empty mountains will find joy in the scenes of Japan's capital.

Our top 5 things to do in Asia

This enormous content offers such a diverse banquet of experiences it can be hard to know where to begin. From the busy streets of Tokyo to the world's largest religious site found in Cambodia, we'll share the very best on our Asia vacation packages.

China
Temple of Heaven

The aptly named Temple of Heaven is a scene straight out of a mythical religious artwork. Stare up at the ceilings in the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests where a patchwork of colour honours the seasons of the year. With construction finishing in the year 1420, this site holds limitless cultural significance.
Cambodia
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum

Pay tribute to the victims of Cambodia's brutal genocide that saw a quarter of its population lost in the early 1970's. The photos of those lost haunt the walls of Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, housed in a building that was once a centre for prison and interrogation.
Japan
Tokyo National Museum

Take an artistic journey along the Silk Road to ancient and medieval days gone by at Tokyo National Museum, the 6th largest art museum in the world. Hosting many of Japan's national treasures and religious artworks with immense cultural significance, allow a whole day to soak up all this monument has to offer.

Best museums in Asia

A tapestry of history, art and modern culture are found peppered across this continent in its endless list of museums. These are just some of the places we'll visit on our Asia escorted tours.

Japan
Sushi

With almost a thousand years of history held in a roll of seaweed, rice and raw fish, don't miss this important part of Japanese culture. Though it's now readily available in most parts of the world, you will find something special about the sushi experience in its homeland.
Vietnam
Pho

Pho has travelled a long way since it originated in the Nam Định province of Vietnam. Slurp down many bowls from lively street vendors and modern cafes, enjoying variations of the hot rice noodle broth covered in herbs. The country of Vietnam summed up in one soupy dish.
China
Peking Duck

Taste the Imperial era in slices of seasoned crispy skin duck. Best wrapped in thin pancakes with hoisin sauce and greens, this Chinese specialty is delicious whether consumed in a busy street market or upmarket restaurant.

Best food in Asia

It's hard to compete with the delicious fragrant dishes that originate across the expanses of Asia. With chopsticks in hand, we'll uncover the very best and learn of the many rituals and traditions woven into this continent's culinary banquet.

What to pack for Asia

Charcoal tablets

Many visit Asia armed with a pharmacy of pills for the chance of illness. Prevention is always better than cure; take a natural daily supplement such as charcoal to ensure nasties are evacuated from your system as quickly as possible.

Cool full-length clothes

Many parts of Asia boast a sunny tropical climate that's perfect for days flopped by a pool or sea. When exploring, it can be somewhat uncomfortable. Pack light, full-length clothes so you can respectfully visit religious sites without sweltering.

Hand sanitizer

During your time in Asia, you might not always have access to soap and water to wash up before eating. Keep hand sanitizer available for clean hands and a happy stomach.

Insect Repellent

A bug spray will be your best protection against mosquitos and any other creepy crawlies that call Asia home. Pack a bottle to avoid unnecessary itch or illness.

Water purification devices

The purification of water has come a long way in recent years. Make your way to a specialist travel shop to discuss bottles, gadgets and tablets that will ensure you stay hydrated without falling ill.

Other things to know before you go

Depending on your nationality, you'll need a valid passport and may also need visas to enter. Please check this well in advance of your trip departure date here. Some countries also require passports to have 3-6 months left on them before the given expiry date, so be sure to double check this before booking your travels.

Our Asia destinations

China

India

Japan

Singapore