West Japan: Hiroshima + Art Island 2024 | 10 Days |

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West Japan: Hiroshima + Art Island

10 days 8 nights
from
RESERVE ONLINE RESERVE
2024
Fukuoka, Hagi, Yamaguchi, Miyajima, Hiroshima, Kotohira, Kurashiki, Naoshima, Hyogo, Arima

A Journey to Culture, Art, and Peace

The intimate ocean breeze of West Japan
Guides our journey along Seto Inland Sea 
Visit a White Heron castle perched upon a hilltop
A bright vermillion beacon on the ocean draws us in 
Ferry to an art island with works by Ando and Kusama
The deep touching spirit of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial
Reflected by the majestic and tranquil sea 

tour-map

Highlights

  • Yamaguchi | The root of modern Japan
    • Akiyoshi Cave: Explore ever changing beauty in the largest limestone cave in Japan
    • Ruriko-ji Temple: Visit one of the oldest five-storied pagodas
    • Iwakuni Kintai Wooden Bridge: Walk across an intimate marvel
    • Saikotei: Wear kimonos and stroll in Zen gardens
  • Hiroshima | Travel to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites
    • Itsukushima Shrine: Take in the best views of the famous "Floating Torii Gate" of Miyajima
    • Visit Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, a profound and moving experience
  • Kagawa/Ehime | Remarkable oceanside views of Seto Inland Sea
    • One of the best ways to enjoy Seto Inland Sea is by biking Shimanami Kaido Expressway. Join our optional bike tour or relax in a local coffee shop
    • Ascend the steps of Kotohira-gu Shrine for a breathtaking view of the Sanuki Plains
  • Naoshima Island | Tour works & sculptures on Japan's "Island of Art," designed by famous architect Ando Tadao
  • Hyogo | Home to Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and national treasure
    • Learn about the samurai era lifestyle in Himeji, one of the best-preserved castles remaining
    • Relax in Arima overnight, one of the three ancient hot springs

Itinerary

Open All Days
USA/Canada aircraft-icon
Arrive in Fukuoka International Airport (FUK) 2
4 mi
, 15 mins

Fukuoka
Welcome to ! For guests within our pickup timeframe, a Supera representative will greet you at the arrival airport. Have a wonderful journey with us!

 

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Chicken Hot Pot Set (Mizutaki)
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Grand Hyatt Fukuoka
Hotel Nikko Fukuoka
Hotel Okura Fukuoka
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88 mi
, 2 hrs

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25 mi
, 1 hr
15 mins

Yuda Onsen
Akiyoshi Cave Entrance
Akiyoshi Cave Entrance
Streets of Hagi
Streets of Hagi

Yamaguchi

  • Mekari Park:
    Enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the Straits of Shimonoseki, dividing Kyushu from the rest of Japan.
  • Akiyoshi Cave:
    Witness the ever-changing beauty of the largest limestone cave in Japan.
  • Hagi:
    Stroll through an old castle town known for its Hagi-yaki pottery and the birthplace of the forerunners who promoted modernization of Japan.
  • Yuda Onsen:
    Rest your tired feet in the famous hot spring foot baths of Yuda Onsen.
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Hotel Buffet
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Burdock Udon Noodles
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Tiger Pufferfish Kaiseki Banquet
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Yuda Onsen Yuberu Hotel Matsumasa (Yuda Hot Spring)
Yuda Onsen 2
58 mi
, 1.5 hrs

Yamaguchi bus.png
28 mi
, 45 mins

Miyajima/Hiroshima
Ruriko Temple Pagoda
Ruriko Temple Pagoda
Iwakuni Kintaikyo Bridge
Iwakuni Kintaikyo Bridge
Yamaguchi
  • Saikotei Museum & Zen Gardens:
    Wear a kimono while taking a stroll through the Japanese-style Zen Garden. The Saikotei Museum houses a wealth of Japanese history and culture not to be missed by any visitor.
  • Ruriko Temple Pagoda:
    Discover one of the oldest and most beautiful five-storied pagodas in Japan.
  • Iwakuni Kintaikyo Wooden Bridge:
    Travel across one of the most tremendous engineering feats of its time. The wooden bridge stretches over 570 feet and was built without a single nail. 
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Japanese Breakfast
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Iwakuni Style Sushi Set
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Buffet Dinner
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Sheraton Grand Hiroshima Hotel
Rihga Royal Hotel Hiroshima
Miyajima 2
17 mi
, 1 hr
15 mins

Hiroshima
Floating Torii Gates
Floating Torii Gates
Hiroshima Peace Park Memorial
Hiroshima Peace Park Memorial

Miyajima

  • Floating Torii Gate and Itsukushima Shrine
    Take a ferry across the Seto Inland Sea to Miyajima for an up-close view of the iconic floating Torii Gate and the sacred Itsukushima Shrine.
  • Miyajima Ropeway:
    To enjoy magnificent views of the Seto Inland Sea from Mt. Misen, a holy mountain on Miyajima, hop aboard the cable car for a stunning view of the vast sea and sky before you.

Hiroshima

  • Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park:
    “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.”—George Santayana. Encounter history at a profound memorial including the Hypocenter, A-Bomb Dome, and the Museum, dedicated to the preservation of peace. 
  • Free Time:
    Hiroshima's small-town feel makes it an ideal place to experience local cuisine independently (with the help of our suggestions of course!).
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Hotel Buffet
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Miyajima Oyster Set
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Not included - Explore with our helpful maps & suggestions
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Sheraton Grand Hiroshima Hotel
Rihga Royal Hotel Hiroshima
Hiroshima 2
68 mi
, 1 hr
45 mins

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95 mi
, 2 hrs

Kagawa
Shimanami Kaido Expressway Tatara Observatory
Shimanami Kaido Expressway Tatara Observatory
Kotohira-gu Shrine
Kotohira-gu Shrine

Ikuchijima

  • Shimanami Kaido Expressway: 
    Travel across the Seto Inland Sea on a seaside bike tour or visit the Kosanji Temple, a Buddhist temple built to resemble many of Japan's most famous temples.

Kagawa

  • Kotohira-gu Shrine:
    Ascend 1,368 stone steps for an excellent bird's eye view of the Sanuki Plain at your feet. A visit here is considered a must-do for many Japanese people. 

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Hotel Buffet
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Seto Inland Sea Seafood
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Kaiseki Banquet
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Kotohira Grand Hotel Sakuranoshou (Konpira Hot Spring)
Yumoto Konpira Onsen Hananoyu Kobaitei
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24 mi
, 1 hr

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View Great Seto Bridge from Mt. Washu Observatory
View Great Seto Bridge from Mt. Washu Observatory
Kurashiki Bikan
Kurashiki Bikan

Kagawa

  • Great Seto Bridge Memorial Park:
    Get a close-up view of the world's longest two-tiered bridge. Spanning over eight miles, this monumental engineering feat is comprised of six consecutive bridges connecting five islands in the Seto Inland Sea.
    *Tour departing on Mar 22 will not visit Seto Ohashi Commemorative Hall due to the closure. 

Kurashiki

  • Mt. Washu Observatory:
    Cross the Great Seto Bridge to Mt. Washuzan Lookout Point for spectacular views of the Seto Inland Sea and the Great Seto Bridge. 
  • Free time:
    Experience the historic town of Kurashiki Bikan area in Kurashiki. The city offers a blend of the traditional Edo-period and modern Western influence against the backdrop of beautiful canals. Take some time and browse through local boutiques and cafes in the historical quarter or travel down the canal on a boat.
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Hotel Buffet
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Handpicked Local Specialties
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Japanese Western Cuisine
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Kurashiki Kokusai International Hotel
Kurashiki 2
15 mi
, 45 mins

Uno 3
3 mi
, 15 mins

Naoshima 2
3 mi
, 15 mins

Uno 3
15 mi
, 45 mins

Kurashiki
Yayoi Kusama Pumpkin
Yayoi Kusama Pumpkin
Naoshima
Naoshima

Naoshima

  • Art House Project:
    Visit a fascinating art installation in Naoshima's Honmura district - a collection of seven reclaimed homes repurposed into surprising works of art.
  • Chichu Art Museum:
    Designed by acclaimed Japanese architect, Mr. Tadao Ando, this unique art museum is constructed mostly underground to avoid disrupting beautiful natural scenery of the surrounding Seto Inland Sea.
  • Lee Ufan Museum:
    One of the more recent additions to Naoshima, this small, contemplative gallery features works by the Korean contemporary artist Lee Ufan.
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Hotel Buffet
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Handpicked Local Specialties
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Handpicked Local Specialties
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Kurashiki Kokusai International Hotel
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65 mi
, 1.5 hrs

Himeji 2
40 mi
, 1 hr
15 mins

Arima Onsen
Himeji Castle
Himeji Castle
Walking Down Hot Spring Street in Arima
Walking Down Hot Spring Street in Arima

Himeji

  • Himeji Castle:
    Explore the grounds of one of the best-preserved castles and one of Japan's national treasures. (In the case of closure, we will visit Okayama Korakuen Garden, one of the three great gardens of Japan.)

Arima Onsen

  • Arima is one of Japan's top three hot spring towns and also one of its oldest. Enjoy a quintessential Japanese experience here with its luxurious tatami-floored rooms, breathtaking scenery, and indulgent, relaxing hot springs.
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Hotel Buffet
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Conger Eel Kettle Rice (Kamameshi)
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Kaiseki Banquet
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Arima Grand Hotel
Arima Onsen Gekkouen Kourokan
Arima Onsen 2
50 mi
, 1 hr
15 mins

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Your Next Destination

Osaka

  • In the morning, we leave Arima Hot Spring together and disband in Kansai Airport (KIX). For guests with extended stays, please contact us for details.
 
A great journey always feels short, let’s look forward to seeing each other again!
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Hotel Buffet

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  • Deposit:A deposit of per person is due within 5 days of reservation confirmation to secure your space on tour.
  • Balance:Due days before tour departure.
  • Flights:We are happy to arrange air tickets with the best balance between price and flight quality. If you are purchasing your own flights, please book flights scheduled to arrive/depart within the times listed below. If you are arriving/departing on the same day as our tour but outside timeframes, we may still be able to arrange service - please contact us for transfer options. Please be aware missed portions of the itinerary will not be refunded. Prior to issuing tickets, please reconfirm with us to avoid unexpected expenses.
  • Please review the Terms & Conditions before you book.
  • Is This Trip Right for Me?
    • Please see the Itinerary for activity levels and details.
    • Accessibility: Due to the nature of the itinerary, this tour is not suitable for wheelchairs.
    • Age + Health: Our tour welcomes guests aged 2 and above. No upper age limit applies, but please consider your physical capacity. If you have limited mobility, you will need to travel with a companion
    • Dietary Restrictions: Following our tradition of encouraging our guests to “savor the world,” we arrange delicious local menus, but many restaurants cannot meet custom preferences. If you have a serious meal restriction (i.e., fatal allergy, vegetarian, etc.), please let us know before booking and we can check if it can be accommodated.
    • In case you cannot continue the tour for safety reasons or disrupt the group's experience during the trip, you may be asked to leave at your own expense. We will assist in arranging a cancellation. If you have any questions or special needs, kindly notify us beforehand and we'll gladly assist in determining if the trip suits you. In some cases, private group charter options may also be available.
    • Transportation:
      On our private bus, a limited number of seats near the front will be reserved for guests who are prone to motion sickness. Other seats will be rotated periodically.
  • Accommodations:
    • Most reserved rooms are TWIN (2 bed) rooms. Please let us know if you require a DOUBLE (1 large bed) for the entirety of the tour - we will try our best to accommodate. For most hot spring hotels, we will use tatami rooms featuring futon mat bedding.
    • If you have special requirements, please inform us at time of booking so we may make arrangements as soon as possible.
    • For guest privacy and security considerations, we do not have single sharing arrangements.
  • Visas:
    • Please be aware once a visa is processed by Supera, we will not be able to provide a refund under any circumstances.
  • Passports:
    • Please provide a copy of your passport at sign up; we recommend having a copy of your passport with you in case of emergencies.
    • Your passport must have at least 6 months of validity remaining and two blank “Visa” pages.
  • Luggage Handling:
    • We include porterage service where available, but please note porters will not be available in most ryokan and some hotels.
  • Flights and Luggage:
    • Some airlines charge a fee for pre-assigned seats. If so, we will let you know the details at time of booking.
    • If you are booking your own tickets, we recommend reserving at least 3 hours connecting time between international airports.
    • Luggage allowances will vary based on the rules for each airline. Excess baggage fees are the responsibility of the traveler.

Stays of a Lifetime

Don't be too tired to remember your trip!
A hotel is not merely a place to rest your head. We hand-pick each one to give you comfort, great views, unique experiences, and above all, memorability. We carefully consider locations to let your mind, body, and spirit wander freely while feeling at home.


Fukuoka :

Grand Hyatt Fukuoka

Directly connected to Canal City Hakata, one of the biggest commercial complexes in the city, the Grand Hyatt Fukuoka is right in the heart of the city and is within walking distance to many attractions, including Hakata Train Station. The large luxurious rooms ensure you will have a comfortable stay in Fukouka.

Grand Room    
34 m² (366 ft²)
110 x 200 cm * 2 Bed    
180 x 200 cm * 1 Bed
Arranged with Grand Room + Rollaway Bed (95 x 200 cm)

Fukuoka :

Hotel Nikko Fukuoka

Located next to major shopping and entertainment venues in the heart of Fukuoka, Hotel Nikko Fukuoka is just 5 minutes from Fukuoka Airport via subway. Japan Rail and local subway lines are accessible in nearby Hakata Station, which is just a 3-minute walk.

Superior Room    
29.5 m² (318 ft²)
120 x 200 cm * 2 Bed    
180 x 200 cm * 1 Bed
Arranged with Luxury Room 35 m² (337 ft²) + Rollaway Bed (120 x 188 cm)

Fukuoka :

Hotel Okura Fukuoka

Conveniently located in the commercial and shopping district of the Kyushu Tenjin area, this 5-star hotel combines historic charm, modern amenities, and impeccable service. It is hands down in the best location of Fukuoka.

Standard Room    
28 m² (301 ft²)
122 x 195 cm * 2 Bed    
195 x 209 cm * 1 Bed
Arranged with Standard Room + Rollaway Bed (110 x 195 cm)
Due to smaller size, we do not recommend use of Double Room 25 m² (269 ft²)

Yamaguchi :

Yuda Onsen Yuberu Hotel Matsumasa

Situated in the center of Yuda Onsen Resort, Matsumasa offers exceptional convenience, hospitality, and comfort. During your stay, try the “hand onsen” and take a dip in the famous open-air bath that is 100% sourced directly from the earth. 

Japanese Room in East Building    
10 tatami mats
100 x 200 cm * 2 Bed    
N/A
Arranged with Japanese Room + extra Futon (100 x 200 cm)
Arranged with Futon in Japanese Room

Hiroshima :

Sheraton Grand Hiroshima Hotel

Centrally located in Hiroshima, this 4-star hotel is located within walking distance from the Japan Rail Hiroshima Station, which offers direct access to the bullet train and bus stations. Spacious rooms, modern amenities, and the Sheraton Sweet Sleeper Bed are just a few of the special touches you can expect from a Sheraton.

Deluxe Room    
35 m² (377 ft²)
120 x 200 cm * 2 Bed    
200 x 230 cm * 1 Bed
Arranged with Deluxe Room + Rollaway Bed (100 x 180 cm)
Twin rooms subject to availability

Hiroshima :

Rihga Royal Hotel Hiroshima

Nestled in the heart of Hiroshima city, that boasts of two World Heritage Sites - Genbaku Dome (the Atomic Bomb Dome) and Itsukushima Shrine, and within walking distance from Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Hiroshima Castle. This hotel is at a perfect location for Hiroshima sightseeing.

Standard Room    
34 m² (366 ft²)
120 x 200 cm * 2 Bed    
180 x 200 cm * 1 Bed
Arranged with Standard Room + Rollaway Bed (90 x 200 cm)
Due to smaller size, we do not recommend use of Double Room 31m² (334ft²)

Kagawa :

Kotohira Grand Hotel Sakuranoshou

Located at the foot of Konpira Shrine, this is one of the best Ryokan hotels in Japan. This hotel is not only within walking distance to the Konpira Shrine and the Kabuki Theater, but its open-air bath is also strategically positioned to overlook Mt. Zozu. The female guests are in for a treat! Ladies can indulge in “Hana-buro,” an open-air bath filled with fragrant rose petals.

Japanese Western Room with Open-Air Bath    
10 tatami mats
100 x 200 cm * 2 Bed    
N/A
Arranged with Japanese Western Room with Open-Air Bath + Rollaway Bed (120 x 200 cm)

Kagawa :

Yumoto Konpira Onsen Hananoyu Kobaitei

Located in Konpira Onsen, one of Japan’s top 100 must-visit hot springs, it is a 10-minute walk to the famous Kotohira-gū Shrine . There are up to 15 types of hot spring pools in the hotel; the hot spring pools are sprinkled with fresh flower petals, and you can smell the flowers and experience the fun of hot springs at the same time, which is a major feature of the hotel.

Japanese Room    
10 tatami mats
100 x 200 cm * 2 Bed    
N/A
Arranged with Japanese Room + extra Futon (100 x 200 cm)
Arranged with Futon in Japanese Room

Okayama :

Kurashiki Kokusai International Hotel

Located in the city center, this hotel is just a short stroll to the Kurashiki bikan old quarter. It is also adjacent to the Ohara Museum of Art, and the hotel itself is a part of the museum attracting many international art enthusiasts.

Deluxe Twin    
34.3 m² (369 ft²)
125 x 195 cm * 2 Bed    
N/A
Arranged with Deluxe Twin + Rollaway Bed (98 x 195 cm)
Standard Room in Main Building    
21.8 m² (235 ft²)
110 x 195 cm * 2 Bed    
N/A
Arranged with Triple Room 28.1 m² (302 ft²) w/ Single Bed (110 x 195 cm)

Hyogo :

Arima Grand Hotel

One of the three most famous hot springs in Japan, Arima Grand Onsen is situated on a hillside overlooking the town of Arima. Continuing the centuries old tradition of natural hot baths, this ryokan’s spring water is said to be rich in iron and provides many health benefits to past Emperors and current guests alike.

Japanese Western Room in Central Building    
35 m² (377 ft²)
120 x 210 cm * 2 Bed    
N/A
Arranged with Japanese Western Room + Sofa Bed (95 x 195 cm)

Hyogo :

Arima Onsen Gekkouen Kourokan

Arima Onsen Gekkoen Korokan is located in the mountainous Rokko area. You can enjoy the breath-taking nature view of surrounding mountains and rivers. There are two types of hot spring in the hotel: Kinsen, brown with iron deposits and Ginsen which contains radium and carbonate.

Each of them has its own uniqueness and provides many benefits to health. Let's dip into the hot spring and overlook the different scenery of four seasons.

Japanese Room    
12 tatami mats
100 x 200 cm * 2 Bed    
N/A
Arranged with Japanese Room + extra Futon (100 x 200 cm)
Arranged with Futon in Japanese Room
Thomas I.
(04/25/2018) Thomas I.

Our family recently returned from a Super Value Tours 9 day vacation to West Japan. The tour group was led by Mr Colin Wu, who was amiable and knowledgeable of the history and customs of the areas visited.

The tour exceeded all of our expectations. Hotels ranged from 5 star hotels to Onsen Hotels. The meals featured the specialties of the different regions and included puffer fish, eel, oysters and noodles. We were also treated to a French fusion cuisine dinner.
One day we were scheduled to ride a ropeway to the top of the mountain. However because of the winds and the weather, the ropeway was closed. We were surprised and delighted to receive a rebate for the cancelled ride.
The trip included visits to 3 UNESCO World heritage sites. At the conclusion of the trip everyone in our family said they would like to return to Japan on another Super Value Tour. I would highly recommend this travel organization.

 

Maria J.
(07/06/2019) Maria J.

We just returned from our West Japan trip yesterday. I wanted to let you know that we had an amazing time! Thanks again for your kind assistance with our past 3 trips to Asia. We are hoping to go to Hokkaido later this year and will be in touch!

Linda M.
(07/29/2019) Linda M.

My traveling companion and I compared about 9 different tour companies before picking Super Value tours for Japan. We put two tours back-to-back, Classic Japan and Western Japan and had a terrific time!

I highly recommend Super Value Tours if you are planning on traveling any place they go! I am looking forward to them expanding their horizons to other countries! Many thanks for exceeding expectations!

James T.
(11/21/2017) James T.

....The tour group was led by Mr Colin Wu, who was amiable and knowledgeable of the history and customs of the areas visited. The tour exceeded all of our expectations. Hotels ranged from 5 star hotels to Onsen Hotels. The meals featured the specialties of the different regions and included puffer fish, eel, oysters and noodles. We were also treated to a French fusion cuisine dinner.....The trip included visits to 3 UNESCO World heritage sites. At the conclusion of the trip everyone in our family said they would like to return to Japan on another Super Value Tour [now Supera tours]....