2025 ALOHA RNL
WISTERIA SAKURA SADO TOUR #5   
  

Nasu/ Aizu / Niigata / Sado / Obuse / Gunma / Tokyo and more!

DATE:
17 Apr (Thu) 2025 ー 29 Apr (Tue) 2025

INCLUDED:
11 Nights / 12 Days • 30 Meals
(Daily Breakfasts, 9 Lunches, 10 Dinners)
Escorted from Honolulu
English-Speaking Local Guide
All Land Tour transportation
Hotel Accommodation
All support of your baggage
Souvenir boxes (included pack in a box)
Heartwarming Service

ITINERARY

Day 1: Thu. Apr 17 –  HONOLULU: Depart Honolulu
Enjoy your journey through the skies and prepare for the wonderful adventure that awaits you in Japan. 

Day 2: Fri. Apr 18 – VILLA FONTAINE GRAND HANEDA AIRPORT  
Welcome to Japan! Upon arrival at either Haneda International Airport, complete the immigration procedures. After checking in at the hotel, take some time to unwind and prepare for the upcoming day. Put your feet up, relax, and get ready for the WISTERIA SAKURA SADO TOUR.

Day 3: Sat. Apr 19 – HOTEL EPINARD NASU (Onsen) or Similar
Today, we set our sights on Nasu Highlands, also known as the "Royal Resort," owing to its reputation as a retreat for members of the imperial family. Our first destination leads us to Mashiko, renowned for its pottery. With origins dating back to 1853, Mashiko-yaki holds the distinction of being recognized as a traditional craft of Japan.Next, we'll head to Shibazakura Park in Ichikai Town, where you'll encounter a breathtaking carpet of pink moss phlox flowers known as shibazakura, painting a stunning pink landscape. From the observation deck, revel in the picturesque view of the river, adorned in beautiful shades of pink, offering a serene and colorful experience in nature. As the day winds down, we'll retreat to a hotel with natural hot springs, allowing you to unwind and rejuvenate in preparation for the adventures that await tomorrow.

Day 4: Sun. Apr 20 – HOTEL LISTEL INAWASHIRO (Onsen)
Today promises a day of experiencing breathtaking landscapes and the lifestyle of samurai. Our first stop will be the majestic To-no-Hetsuri, a site shaped by erosion and weathering, resulting in a stunning landscape. This natural wonder has earned the designation of a National Natural Monument. Continuing our journey, we'll head to Aizu Bukeyashiki, where you can step into the world of samurai culture and lifestyle. This historical district offers insights into the lives of feudal lords and their retainers, giving you a glimpse of the past. Afterward, we'll make our way to a resort hotel near Lake Inawashiro, providing a serene environment for relaxation.

Day 5: Mon. Apr 21 – ANA CROWNE PLAZA HOTEL NIIGATA 
Today marks the beginning of our journey to Niigata, renowned for its rice production. Departing from the hotel, our first stop will be the Riverside cherry blossom along the Kanonji River, which is conveniently located nearby. Here, we'll immerse ourselves in the beauty of cherry blossoms in bloom. Following this, we'll venture to the "Senbei Kingdom," where we'll enjoy shopping and the experience of making traditional Japanese rice crackers. Continuing our exploration, we'll visit "Niigata Furusato Mura," a facility that showcases all the local souvenirs and specialties of the Niigata region. Finally, we'll return to the hotel to relax and prepare for the adventures awaiting us tomorrow.

Day 6: Tue. Apr 22 – SADO RESORT HOTEL AZUMA (Onsen)
Beginning our delightful two-day journey, we'll delve into the captivating history and cherished traditions of Sado Island. Our day kicks off with a Ferry voyage to Sado Island, setting the stage for an exciting adventure. Upon arrival, our initial stop is the Sado Historical Legend Museum, an interactive haven that employs life-sized robots and captivating exhibits to recount the island's historical figures and legends. Continuing, we'll explore the Sado Gold Mine. In the 17th century, it was the largest gold-producing site in the world. The gold from Sado is said to have had a significant impact on the global economy during that time. The Sado Gold Mine is currently working towards achieving UNESCO World Heritage status in the year 2024. As the day winds down, our accommodation awaits—an exquisite onsen resort hotel on Sado Island. If fortunate, we might savor the delectable local treat of red snow crab, a culinary delight.

Day 7: Wed. Apr 23 – SADO RESORT HOTEL AZUMA (Onsen)
The Sado wake-up was a delightful experience. Today, we'll relish a delectable Japanese breakfast before embarking on a unique adventure. Our destination: the southern part of the island, where the enchanting "Tarai-bune" wooden tub boat awaits. Dating back over 200 years, this traditional vessel stands as a cherished symbol of the past. Next, let's explore the Akadomari district with locals. Home to the Hokusetsu Sake Brewery, this area features houses with unique structures specific to Sado Island, some dating back around 150 years. Immerse yourself in the current state and culture of Sado Island, and embark on a one-of-a-kind experience that offers insights into its rich heritage. After arriving at the hotel, make sure to carve out some time to relax and get ready for the exciting adventures that lie ahead tomorrow. If the timing aligns, you might also have the chance to enjoy a private bath with breathtaking views.

Day 8: Thu. Apr 24 – ANA CROWNE PLAZA HOTEL NIIGATA
Today, let's relish more of Sado Island before concluding in Niigata City. Our morning unfolds at Senkaku Bay, where you can marvel at the sea-sculpted wonders. The waves have crafted unique rock formations, making Senkaku Bay a visual delight. Next, we'll visit Meoto Iwa, the Married Couple Rocks. These rocks, appearing to be in an affectionate embrace, symbolize marital harmony and love's enduring bond. Continuing our exploration, we'll venture to Toki no Mori Park. Although around 300 crested ibises (Toki) inhabit the wild, their full integration remains a work in progress. To facilitate their conservation, the park replicates their natural habitat within spacious enclosures. This allows us to observe their natural behaviors like flight and nesting up close. Later, we'll board a jetfoil back to Niigata. Upon reaching the hotel, take time to unwind and prepare for the adventures awaiting tomorrow.
※Notification: Regarding the activities in Sado, we are currently in discussions with the local community. There is a possibility of upgrading and making changes to the final itinerary.

Day 9: Fri. Apr 25  – LOTTE ARAI RESORT (Onsen)
Our morning's first stop is a delightful Strawberry-picking experience, setting the stage for a day of delectable delights. Highly regarded by tour guides who have savored countless strawberry-picking experiences, this farm has earned a reputation for its exceptional strawberries that tantalize the taste buds.After strawberry picking, we'll visit Tsubame Sanjo Local Industry Promotion Center for shopping. Known for metalwork and porcelain, it's a hub of craftsmanship. The center offers a range of items, from cutlery and copperware to durable porcelain and kitchen essentials. Tradition and innovation combine in this collection, with globally popular items..Continuing our journey, we'll make our way to a hotel featuring relaxing hot springs. This serene oasis offers the perfect opportunity to unwind and prepare for the exciting journey that lies ahead.

Day 10: Sat. Apr 26 – MYOGI GREEN HOTEL & TERRACE (Onsen) 
Today's itinerary encompasses a remarkable journey across three distinct locales, traversing Niigata, passing through Nagano, and making our way to Gunma. Our initial stop is Obuse, a charming town famous for chestnuts, the legendary Hokusai, and its vibrant flowers. Don't forget to try the mouthwatering chestnut-flavored ice cream. Obuse's streets are delightful, and the Hokusai Museum is a must-visit, featuring the artist's masterpieces. We're happy to guide interested individuals through this enriching experience. Afterward, we'll head to the Konnyaku Park, offering insights into the production process of this fascinating ingredient. Known as a supporting character in Japanese cuisine, konnyaku appears in dishes like oden and hot pots. Finally, we'll wrap up the day at a resort facility with a rejuvenating hot spring, providing a relaxing way to unwind before returning to the bustling city center.

Day 11: Sun. Apr 27 – ROYAL PINES HOTEL URAWA
Today promises to be a highlight of our journey, offering an experience that will surely leave a lasting impression. Our morning will be spent at the Ashikaga Flower Park, a breathtaking paradise of light and blooms that will capture your heart. This park is renowned for its 160-year-old wisteria and a splendid array of seasonal flowers.Highlighting the experience are vast wisteria trellises covering 600 tatami mats and an 80-meter-long tunnel of white wisteria. With over 350 wisteria plants in bloom, the view is captivating. In 2014, CNN named this park one of the "10 Dream Destinations Worldwide.Following this enchanting experience, we'll make our way to an Aeon Shopping Mall, where you can indulge in shopping and savor a delightful meal.Later, we'll return to the hotel to prepare for tomorrow's adventures and unwind in relaxation.

Day 12: Mon. Apr 28 – ROYAL PINES HOTEL URAWA
Today marks the final day before your return, offering a splendid opportunity to relish Tokyo to the fullest. To kick-start the day, we'll immerse ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Ameyoko, a bustling shopping district known for its diverse range of products and bustling energy. Next, we'll head to the symbol of Japan, the Imperial Palace, home to the Emperor. Throughout the year, the grounds are meticulously maintained, boasting an array of beautiful flowers and natural scenery. Among the highlights, the Nijubashi Bridge stands out as a magnificent spot, harmonizing with the moat, bridges, stone walls, and vast forests, offering a breathtaking view.
As the day draws to a close, we'll return to the hotel. Take this time to neatly pack your belongings and make the necessary preparations for your journey tomorrow.(Lunch and dinner will be at your own expense.)

Day 13: Tue. Apr 29 – TOKYO - HONOLULU

At checkout time the guide will come to tape and tie-up the boxes and take the baggage to the airport.  After check-out we will head to Haneda Airport and board flight # to Honolulu. We will arrive at Honolulu in the same morning. 
(Lunch and dinner will be at your own expense.)

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REMARKS
*Please sign up As soon as possible to HOLD your space!
*Full Payment is due on Mar 4, 2025
*Tour Cost: based on 25-35 maximum full paying tour members.
*Final Tour Cost will depend on the yen rate, taxes & fuel surcharges.
*The tour price is based on double occupancy and a minimum group size of 25 passengers. Fare adjustment may apply for groups of 25 or under.
*The rate is based on tariffs and exchange rates effective 5/30/2025.
*Tour fare is subject to change according to any airfare increase, additional fuel surcharges and fluctuation of the rate of exchange between U.S. and foreign currency.
*In the event of revaluation, the land portion of the tour price may be adjusted prior to your final statement.
*The price is based on 145 yen per 1 USD. If the yen rate deviates from this estimated rate, adjustments will be made accordingly.

COST OF LAND TOUR:
TWIN/ TRIPLE OCCUPANCY: $4,900.00 per person
SINGLE OCCUPANCY (4 single rooms only) $5,750.00 per person
PLUS AIRFARE $1,800.00 (ESTIMATED AIRFARE)

NOTE:
Children under 7 years old will receive a 50% discount on the travel fare when traveling.
Children under 12 years old will receive a 30% discount on the travel fare when traveling.
In both cases mentioned above, if an extra bed is required, it will be charged at the regular rate.

TOUR COST INCLUDES:
11 Nights Hotel accommodations
Daily Breakfasts, 9 Lunches, and 10 Dinners
Admission Fees, Pre-luncheon get-together, Local experienced tour guide from RNL TOURS, LLC

CANCELLATION POLICY:
45 days prior to departure – Full refund
44-30 days prior: 50% cancel fee of the tour price, per person charge
29-15 days prior: 75% cancel fee of the tour price, per person charge
14 days prior or less: 100% cancel fee of the tour price, per person, no refund.

GENERAL CONDITIONS TOUR INCLUDES:
Hotel accommodations, transfers, and sightseeing. Adjustments will be made if there is an increase in fuel surcharges and any fluctuation in exchange rates between US Dollars and Japanese Yen.

AIR TRANSPORTATION:
Air service within tours is included except for people buying the land portion only.
Airfare inclusive rates are based on advanced purchase and may be subject to certain airline restrictions and penalties. Adjustments will be made if there is any increase on taxes.

PASSPORTS:
All clients are reminded that a valid passport is necessary in all cases.
The cost of obtaining these documents will be the responsibility of the traveler.
The organizer assumes no responsibility whatsoever, should a client, for any reason be refused entry into any particular country, and the subsequent costs entailed will have to be met by the traveler in accordance with obligations that the organizer has in virtue of the contracts held with third parties.Passport must be valid within 6 months at time of departure.A photocopy of your passport is required for all tours.

IF THE TOUR OPERATOR CANCELS:
Should RNL Tours, LLC. cancel a departure for any reason, your money will be fully refunded.

CHANGES IN ITINERARIES:
RNL Tours, LLC. will make every effort to operate all tours as disclosed in this document.
However, circumstances may arise which would require an adjustment to the tour. We will however do all that is possible to avoid such changes, but we must reserve the right to make such modifications if they are determined to be necessary

RESPONSIBILITY:
This travel agency and/or its agents, sub-agents, sub-offices and affiliates act only as agents for the owners and contractors providing means of transportation or other services and all tickets and/or vouchers are issued subject to any terms and conditions under which such means of transportation or other services where offered or provided. The issuance and acceptance of such tickets and/or vouchers shall be deemed to be consent to the further conditions that this travel agency, its agents, sub-agents, sub-offices and affiliates shall not become liable or responsible in any way in connections with such means of transportation or other services, or for any loss, injury or damages arising from the default of a tour operator/carrier, lost/damaged baggage, trip cancellation, bad weather, natural disaster or other acts of God.
We reserve the right to cancel any tour 45 days or more prior to departure date.
All rates in this brochure/itinerary are subject to change without notice.