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Inspirational, innovative and intriguing, Japan has always been a favorite Tauck destination, where gilded temples and glittering skyscrapers reign over streets steeped in history and tradition. In the port city of Osaka, life unfolds in contrasts. Board a high-speed train for sights frozen in time, from a floating shrine to the poignant Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, lit by an eternal flame. Visit a castle that has stood the test of time and mingle with the locals on a canal-lined street. In Kyoto, golden pavilions and a nightingale castle honor royal times, and cultural arts keep customs like Origami, tea and Maiko dancing alive. Old Japan is chronicled in tranquil Nara, gardens grace Samurai residences in Kanazawa, and "praying hands" hold up homes and spirits in historic mountain villages. And while modern bullet trains speed through country landscapes, the pace slows down to reveal the Essence of Japan... in a ryokan, in art-filled open-air museums, at a sake brewery, a sushi lunch and music and dance performances, Tauck Style. Join us for a Japan travel experience to remember.
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Welcome to Honshu Island
Tauck's Japan travel days begin at The St. Regis Osaka at 6:30 PM. A transfer is included from Osaka's Kansai Airport to The St. Regis Osaka, located in the heart of the Champs Élyseés of Osaka. Spend two nights enjoying one of the most prestigious neighborhoods of this ancient port city, surrounded by natural beauty and cultural grace. Join us for a welcome reception and dinner tonight.
The St. Regis Osaka
Poignant visit to Hiroshima
It's all aboard the super-fast Nozomi Super Express (speeds up to 186 mph) for a visit to Hiroshima. A ferry takes you to Miyajima Island (holy site of Shinto) for a walk to view the oft-photographed Itsukushima Shrine and its "floating" torii gate. Have lunch on the island and return by ferry to Hiroshima for a visit to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, where the first atomic bomb fell on August 6, 1945; today it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your visit is poignant, the story described in words, pictures and artifacts – and optimistic hope in the peace flame that burns outside the museum. Dine tonight at your hotel.
Pleasures of Osaka and on to Kyoto
City sightseeing this morning includes two of Osaka's most popular landmark sights. Once the largest castle in Japan when it was first built in the 1580s by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, magnificent Osaka Castle has been destroyed – and restored – several times, with its most extensive refurbishment completed in 1997. A guided tour reveals its massive stone walls, gold-leaf trim, copper roof and panoramic views, including a fascinating on-site museum that chronicles its tumultuous history. Running alongside a canal of the same name, Dotonbori Street pulses with lively energy, from its shops to its dining venues; enjoy a stroll and lunch at a local restaurant before your Japan travel continues on to enchanting Kyoto this afternoon for a four-night stay.
Kyoto Hotel Okura
Centuries unfold in enchanting Kyoto
Enjoy a full day of Japan travel delights in historic Kyoto, founded in the 7th century and an early capital of Japan. Visit Kinkaku-ji Temple this morning; this Golden Pavilion was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and astounds with gold-leaf gilding on its top two stories. Continue on to Nijo Castle for an inside visit – shoes off. Best known for its ornate interiors and nightingale floors, it was built of Japanese cypress by the first Tokugawa shogun in 1603 and is a wonderful example of Momoyama architecture. Following time to explore as you wish, have dinner on your own tonight; Kyoto offers many fine restaurants to choose from.
Origami, tea and a Maiko performance
Kyoto abounds with a rich legacy of ancient treasures, cultural gems and natural beauty that spans the centuries. "Take the plunge," Kyoto-style, today on a visit to Kiyomizu Temple; the expression comes from the views you will see from the cliff-top verandah off the main hall. Try your hand at Origami, the traditional Japanese art of paper folding, when you visit a private home for a tea ceremony (shoes off again!). The afternoon is free to enjoy as you wish, along with lunch on your own. Join us for a special dinner tonight featuring a Maiko (Geisha in training) performance, reflecting the true essence of Japanese culture.
Temples of tranquil Nara
Tour Kyoto's Sanjusangendo Temple this morning, home to 1,001 wooden cypress statues of Kannon-Bosatsu dating back to the 13th century. Then embark on an excursion to Nara, where you'll savor an unforgettable glimpse of old Japan on visits to ancient temples, shrines and gardens and during lunch at a Japanese restaurant. See the Daibutsu (Great Buddha) at the Todai-ji Temple in Nara Park; at more than 50 feet high, the huge statue is the largest bronze Buddha in all of Japan. Stroll the wooded grounds of the vermilion-colored Kasuga Grand Shrine, adorned with some 3,000 stone and bronze lanterns, before returning to Kyoto, where you'll have dinner on your own tonight.
Garden charm on the Noto Peninsula
It's all aboard the Thunderbird train for a rail journey to Kanazawa on the Noto Peninsula, home to winding cobblestone streets, Samurai residences, Geisha houses, museums, gardens, and a flower-filled open-air market. After lunch at a local restaurant, visit the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art in Kanazawa, then stroll through Kenroku-en Garden, among the country's top three gardens; translated, its name means "a refined garden incorporating six attributes: spaciousness, careful arrangement, seclusion, antiquity, elaborate use of water and scenic charm." Continue on to Wakura Onsen, a hot spring resort on Nanao Bay, and spend tonight at a ryokan (inn), where the dress code is a traditional kimono, mats double as chairs, and dinner features regional specialties.
Kagaya Hotel
Shirakawa-go and a mountain resort
Travel to Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is well-known for its villages of thatched gassho-zukuri (praying hands) farmhouses. Visit a private 300-year-old family home (shoes off!) and explore the historic village of Ogimachi, the largest village with 59 intact gassho houses. See the Miboro Dam en route to your mountain resort in the 16th-century town of Takayama.
Hotel Associa Takayama Resort
A little history and sake in Takayama
Takayama is renowned for its artisans and woodworkers (whose traditions go back to the 9th century), its remarkably preserved Edo-period merchants' shops and houses, its sake, and its quaint village streets best explored on foot. A walking tour with a local guide visits the farmers morning market, the Festival Float Museum and the historic Takayama Jinya, a government building dating from 1692. There are more than 2,000 different brands of sake produced throughout Japan – taste a representative sampling today when you visit a local sake brewery. The remainder of the day is free. Dine as you please for lunch and dinner.
Through the Japanese Alps to Hakone
Today your Japan travel adventure takes you on a remarkable drive across Honshu from Takayama through the breathtaking Japanese Alps – which divide the island in two – to Fuji-Hakone National Park and on to Hakone on the Pacific coast. Rice farms dominate the valleys, while lush forests blanket the mountains. En route, visit the Itchiku Kubota Museum, showcasing Japanese textiles and exquisite kimonos dyed using the centuries-old tsujighana technique. Arrive for an overnight in the hilly hot springs town of Hakone; enjoy dinner at your resort.
Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort & Spa
Fuji-Hakone National Park & on to Tokyo
Weather permitting, get a glimpse of Mt. Fuji as you travel by gondola on the Hakone Ropeway over the mountains, and ride a funicular back down for a cruise on Lake Ashi. After lunch, visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum to view sculpture from the post-Rodin period and art by Pablo Picasso, Renoir and Miro. Continue your Japan travel adventure by journeying to Tokyo for a three-night stay at Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo – named the 2012 "Top Hotel in Japan" by the readers of Travel + Leisure.
Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo
Discover Tokyo sights, past and present
Discover the heart and soul of Tokyo today – a complex blend of ancient traditions and dynamic modern city, you'll explore its many contrasts and learn a little about Tokyo's past and present. Guided city sightseeing includes the Edo Tokyo Museum, which reveals more about the historical heritage of Edo (Tokyo); Asakusa Kannon Temple and the Nakamise Shopping Arcade, one of the oldest shopping centers in Tokyo. Lunch at a local restaurant is followed by an exhilarating Taiko performance. Taiko means "drum," and it's an art form all to itself – rhythm, melody, and movement are woven together into a musical experience that will be long remembered. The rest of the day in Tokyo is free to spend as you please; enjoy dinner on your own tonight.
A taste of Japanese history & culture in Tokyo
Your Tokyo sightseeing today includes a visit to the Imperial Palace Plaza and Meiji Shrine (shoes off!) honoring the spirits of the Emperor Meiji and his Empress Shoken with eternal serenity and tranquil manicured gardens. As a special treat, see a live performance showcasing age-old Shinto music with the ancient Kagura dance. Sushi making is an art here; see how it's done at a culinary demonstration, followed by lunch, then spend the afternoon as you wish. Your journey ends with a flourish at our farewell reception and dinner at the hotel tonight.
Sayonara... as your Japan travel ends
Tauck's Japan travel days end at Tokyo's Narita Airport. Fly home anytime. An airport transfer is included from Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo to Narita International Airport. Allow a minimum of 3 hours for flight check-in.
Small Group Departures – Select small group departures, averaging 24 Tauck guests, are priced from $9990 per person double; specific dates apply – select "Small Group" in the pull-down menu above for complete pricing.
Special Solo Traveler Savings – on select special departures you save $400 on the single room price; specific dates apply – select "Singles Departures" in the pull-down menu above for complete pricing.
Note: Tour of October 19 will stay at Four Seasons Tokyo at Marunouchi on nights 11 – 13.
Let Tauck reserve your flights
Traveling with Tauck ensures more than a memorable travel experience; it also enables you to take advantage of additional "do it for you" travel services that take the hassle out of arranging them yourself! As an added service, we can make flight arrangements for your journey, if your travels originate in the United States, offering you a number of welcome advantages. With Tauck, you can:
What's more, if you purchase Tauck's Guest Protection, you'll receive a refund should you need to cancel your flights due to covered reasons. Another great reason to buy your air from Tauck!
Tauck Guests enjoy complimentary Internet access in guest rooms!
Enjoying Osaka's most coveted address on Midosuji Avenue, the Champs Élysées of Osaka, The St. Regis Osaka opened its doors in 2010 and is the first international luxury hotel to open in the city in 13 years. Guest rooms welcome with a flat-screen HD TV with satellite and cable channels, Pioneer Blu-ray DVD/CD player, down comforter, 300-thread-count sheets and a pillow menu, expresso machine, fully stocked minibar, complimentary bottled water, in-room safe, individual climate control, a rainforest shower and separate soaking bathtub, bathrobes and slippers and a hairdryer. The Exercise Room is equipped with everything required for a satisfying workout, including TechnoGym, treadmills, bikes, weight training and free weights. If relaxation is more appealing, you'll find out it at IRIDIUM offering spa treatments and views of the Osaka skyline. Enjoy light fare at The St. Regis Terrace, northern Italian cuisine at La Veduta, distinctive French flavors in the bistro atmosphere of Rue d'Or or try a specialty cocktail like a "Shogun Mary" at The St. Regis Bar.
Conveniently located in the heart of the city, the Kyoto Hotel Okura has been awarded four "red pavilions," the highest rating in Kyoto, by the Michelin Guide. Guest rooms welcome with such appreciated amenities as satellite TV, minibar, bathrobes and slippers and a tea set. After a busy day, enjoy a swim in the indoor pool or take advantage of the Fitness Club facilities. Indulge in authentic Kyoto cuisine at Irifune, with views of a traditional Japanese garden, try the Chinese menu at Toh-Lee, Italian specialties at L'Olivo Felice, or stop at Panetteria Okura to pick up a bakery treat.
The Kagaya Hotel provides the ambiance of the traditional Japanese ryokan-style lodging experience that combines both luxury and simplicity. The award-winning Onsen (baths heated by volcanic hot springs) are a uniquely Japanese experience. The Kagaya Hotel's facilities and high level of service have made it a favorite of Japan's royal family.
Nestled within the Takayama Highlands and surrounded by splendid vistas of the Japanese Alps, the Hotel Associa Takayama Resort offers guests modern amenities conveniently close to the rich history of Takayama itself. Comfortable guest rooms are larger than the Japanese average. The hotel boasts a natural hot spring bath with indoor and outdoor bathing pools, tennis courts, and even a mahjong room. Dine on French cuisine at the Rosiere restaurant or sample a variety of traditional Japanese fare at the hotel's other three restaurants. Savor locally brewed Hida sakes at the Estmare.
Located in the midst of the resort region of Hakone, an area noted for its natural hot springs, the Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort & Spa extends a warm welcome to travelers seeking a natural experience in the green foothills of the Fuji Hakone Izu National Park. Generously sized guest rooms, highlighted by contemporary design, offer balconies or sun rooms, 32-inch TV with cable / satellite channels and DVD player, marble bath, coffee maker, hairdryer, safe and Japanese cotton robes. The Spa Izumi and Onsen Halone feature separate soothing hot springs baths for men and women. The Dining Room, a provincial restaurant with an open kitchen and relaxing views, features authentic French and Japanese cuisine. The Living Room, with its delightful outdoor terrace, serves a wide selection of coffees and teas, snacks and light meals during the day and cocktails in the evening.
A "tower of contemporary luxury" in the center of the city awaits you at the Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo, where you'll find a stunning panorama surrounding you, no matter where you look. A sense of space, created by expansive glass walls, pervades guest rooms that are among the largest in all of Japan. The hotel's defining style, reflected in each guest room, is that of futuristic luxury, enhanced with specially made fabrics and textiles that reflect the Japanese reverence for nature. Each offers an in-room interactive entertainment system providing integration of personal electronics such as iPod, MP3 and laptops, 45-inch LCD TV receiving over 50 channels, 450-thread-count Egyptian cotton sheets and plush terry bathrobes plus Japanese kimono-style robes, high-tech in-room safe with built-in charger and more to ensure a pleasant, comfortable stay. Cycle "through the sky" 38 floors above the city in the state-of-the-art Fitness Centre or indulge in a bit of pampering calm in the Spa in the Sky. If tea is your thing, you'll find Nirvana in the Sense Tea Corner, offering more than 20 different types in a relaxed and serene atmosphere, while the Mandarin Bar entices with signature cocktails as well as spirits to suit any taste. Dining options range from fine "Edo-mae" sushi at Sushi Sora, casual dining with an Italian flair at Ventaglio to Michelin-star Chinese cuisine and amazing city views at Sense and fine dining at Signature, which has earned a Michelin star for its contemporary French menu. The readers of Travel + Leisure placed the Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo on the list of the 500 World's Best hotels and voted it the #1 hotel in Japan.
Many Tauck travelers prefer arriving at their destination a day before
their Tauck journey begins, or often extend a stay at the end of their
trip. As a service, Tauck will make hotel reservations before and after
your journey.
There are bound to be questions when travelling. Information on everything from weather to internet connections can be found below.
Tour prices are per person in U.S. dollars.All hotel accommodations, entertainment, special dinners, motor coach transportation, sightseeing, porterage, admissions, the services of the Tauck Director, local guides and drivers are included. Transportation from Kansai airport or Itami airport in Osaka to the St. Regis hotel Osaka is included, regardless of the time you check in to the hotel, provided you have furnished us with accurate flight arrival information at least three weeks prior to the start of your tour. Transportation from the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Tokyo to Tokyo International airport (Narita) is also included when you check out of the hotel. Transfers to and from airports may be shared with other Tauck guests.
The tour price includes all hotel accommodations with private baths. Our standard is to provide the best available accommodations without sacrificing value. Although the quality may differ slightly from one hotel to another, our commitment to your comfort is unwavering. Two-bedded rooms are reserved in most hotels. Triples are usually two-bedded rooms plus a rollaway cot and are not recommended for comfort.
Essence of Japan is conducted by a Tauck Director who remains with the group throughout the tour. Your Tauck Director is a professional, fully trained employee of Tauck. In addition, a bilingual local guide assists in each city.
Most meals are included as specified in the itinerary. This tour provides a variety of dining experiences, including buffets, à-la-carte dining and set menus. Whenever possible, we will try to honor special dietary requests.
All customary gratuities for hotel and restaurant staff, local guides and drivers are included.
Special Luggage Restrictions for this Tour
As there is very little space on Japanese trains for luggage, pack lightly and use small suitcases. For your stay at the Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort & Spa on Day 10 and at the Kagaya Hotel on Day 7, you will need to pack all essential clothing and personal care items in an overnight bag; the rest of your luggage will be transported to the next hotel by luggage truck.
Checked Luggage – General
Due to space restrictions, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one suitcase per person weighing no more than 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm).
Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and luggage exceeding airline standards for size or weight may result in expensive overage fees or other consequences.
Airlines are free to revise luggage policies without notice, and certain airlines have different baggage allowances for different classes of service. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies.
Please be sure to attach your Tauck luggage tag to your suitcase before leaving home!
Carry-on Luggage - General
Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel or for many on-tour flights. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.
For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and that you bring only those items you need handy during the day such as make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or on the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may be inaccessible during daytime travel.
Your Tauck Director will assist you with information on free-time activities based on honest opinion and guidance, but they will not sell you anything. This means better value and a more relaxed, pleasant experience for you.
If you are a U.S. citizen traveling internationally, you will need a passport valid for six months beyond the completion of your Tauck journey for entry into Japan; however, you do not need a visa for the short duration of this tour.
If you are a citizen of another country traveling internationally, you should contact a consulate or embassy of Japan to determine what travel documentation is required.
Please note that longer stays abroad for any purpose may require additional travel documentation.
We recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen.
To avoid jet lag and possible flight delays, you may wish to make hotel arrangements for the nights preceding or following your tour. As a service, we will book additional nights for you on a space-available basis using special rates only available through us. Hotel room charges will be added to the tour cost. Airport transfers are included for these bookings as described above in Inclusive Prices. If you wish to spend additional nights, please consult Extend Your Trip in the Accommodations section above on this webpage and discuss it with your reservations sales consultant or travel agent when you book your tour.
Although every effort is made to handle your luggage carefully, we cannot be responsible, assume liability or accept claims for loss or damage to luggage and personal effects due to breakage, theft, or fair wear and tear through hotel, airline and group carrier handling. It is important for your own self-interest and protection that you make certain you have adequate insurance to cover these eventualities. Please refer to the Tauck Travel Protection Product section below for more information.
Lost luggage is an unfortunate possibility in today's world of airline travel. We suggest that you:
Your Tauck Director will assist you with airline and other carrier communications, but has no inside contacts to guarantee or expedite recovery of lost luggage. All recovery costs, including the communication costs, are your responsibility. Check your travel protection details for covered expenses.
Personal expenses such as phone calls, room service, alcoholic and other beverages not specifically included, laundry, dry cleaning, airline excess luggage charges, vaccinations, visa fees and services, airport arrival and departure taxes, individual train and airport transfers (when applicable), and other optional or incidental extras are not included and may be significant.
The customary gratuity to the Tauck Director is not included. We ask that gratuities be extended on a voluntary, individual basis and not as a group.
Journey start and end times are provided at the time of booking. The tour begins at 6:30 PM at The St. Regis Osaka on the first day of the tour. You or your booking agent will be advised of any change to this schedule. When making flight arrangements, allow sufficient time to claim luggage and clear customs in order to join the tour on time. Each carrier and each airport has different rules regarding how early you must arrive for flight check in. Please contact your individual carrier for this information.
We pledge to make every effort to operate your tour as advertised. We reserve the right to alter or curtail the itinerary, or substitute sightseeing, hotels, and/or conveyances as deemed necessary. Any savings realized by these changes will be refunded to you. Any resultant added expense will be covered by us. Although not expected, prices on this website may be modified due to unexpected significant external factors not forecast at the time of publication.
Museum visits and personal shopping time may be disrupted due to unforeseen circumstances or the many religious, state and civic holidays locally observed.You may wish to log on to Wikipedia to view a list of holidays by country by clicking here.
Occasionally, we will use photographs and/or video taken by fellow guests or your Tauck Director on your tour for print, Internet and other promotional purposes. If you prefer that your image not be used in any marketing activities, please notify your Tauck Director at the start of your tour.
Membership will be granted to all persons. We reserve the right to terminate the tour of any person who is abusive of others or whose behavior disrupts the tour.
We recommend that you contact your bank in advance of departing on this tour to determine whether you will be able to use your ATM and credit cards while traveling. When contacting your bank, notify them of your travel dates so that they will anticipate charges being made outside of your hometown and do not suspend your cards for what may appear to them to be "suspicious" charges. We also recommend that you make a photocopy of the front and back sides of your ATM and credit cards to leave behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your cards are misplaced, lost or stolen.
We understand and appreciate the value of instant communication when we travel; it keeps us in touch with friends and family, and it's a reassurance in the event of an emergency. However, the use of cell phones can be disruptive to a tour and to other guests who are enjoying their vacation. As a courtesy to others, we ask that you refrain from using your cell phone while on the motor coach, during group functions, when sightseeing and when your Tauck Director is addressing the group as a whole. There will be many opportunities to make and receive calls at times when it does not affect others.
Unless your cellular carrier is an inbound roaming partner of either DoCoMo or Vodafone Japan, then your cell phone is considered incompatible and will not work in Japan. Please contact your cell phone carrier to determine limitations and services that exist for your service.
To enjoy this active tour, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances, often over unpaved and uneven surfaces. Some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. The amount of walking you do, however, is at your discretion. We recommend that you pack sturdy, comfortable walking shoes that have already been broken-in to appreciate fully what Japan has to offer.
Some sites have limited motor coach access and often involve walking some distance from the motor coach parking to the site itself. Due to the ancient nature of several of the sites you will visit, stairs, walkways and garden paths are sometimes uneven, irregular, steep and/or slippery. If you join us for the visit to the fish market, you should be aware that there are crowds of people and fast-moving carts and forklifts. Quite often, you will be asked to remove your shoes to gain entry into the temples, shrines and historical residences along your journey.
PLEASE NOTE: We regret that this Tauck itinerary cannot accommodate wheelchairs or motorized scooters. Likewise, we regret that we're unable to provide individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other personal needs. The responsibility of the Tauck Director who accompanies your trip is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest. Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it.
While drinking water is generally safe at all our hotels, bottled water will be available wherever the local water is not fit to drink. We also provide bottled water on the motor coaches.
Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.
If you have a medical condition that might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify us as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.
If you are a resident of the U.S. traveling internationally, no vaccinations are currently required for travel to Japan. For complete vaccination and inoculation information, contact your physician, the public health service in your area, or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia. The Travelers' Health Section of the CDC operates a 24-hour "Travelers' Health Hotline" at 800-232-4636 (toll-free in the U.S.). You may also log on to the CDC website by clicking here.
If you are a resident of another country traveling internationally, please contact an embassy or consulate of each of the countries on the itinerary to determine what vaccinations may be required for you to visit.
Age Recommendations – Children 5 years of age or older at the time of travel are welcome on this Tauck journey. Based upon our experience with family travelers, for each itinerary we have a minimum recommended age to encourage comfort and enjoyment for all of our guests. All children must be accompanied on activities by a parent or guardian. At least one guest in the traveling party must be 21 years of age or older in order to make a reservation.
Babysitting ― Our journeys are designed for adults and children to share the wonder of discovery together. If you require babysitting services, your Tauck Director will put you in contact with the appropriate hotel staff with whom you may make babysitting arrangements. There is usually an additional fee for these services. Many hotels do offer on-site babysitting services; however, babysitting services may not be available at all of our hotels. Please note that our Tauck Directors are not responsible for providing babysitting services.
Safety and Welfare Responsibility ― We welcome the participation of child travelers on our exciting excursions. If you are traveling with a child on a Tauck journey, you have the sole responsibility for ensuring that that the child with whom you are traveling follows all rules of safety throughout the tour. By traveling with us, you release Tauck, Inc. and our partners of all liability for any risks and/or injuries to the child with whom you are traveling.
Special Travel Documentation for Children
Authorization for Travel
If you travel into or out of the U.S. with children under the age of 18, you should be aware of the following: because of increasing incidents of child abductions in disputed custody cases and because children are at risk as possible victims of child pornography, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) strongly recommends that unless the child is accompanied by both parents, you should have a notarized note from the child's other parent (or, in the case of a child traveling with grandparents, uncles or aunts, sisters or brothers, or friends, a note signed by both parents) stating that the parent(s) not traveling acknowledge that the parent(s), family members, etc. who are traveling into or out of the U.S. with the child have permission to do so. While CBP may not ask to see this documentation, if they do ask, and you do not have it, you may be detained until the circumstances of the child traveling without both parents can be fully assessed.
If there is no second parent with legal claims to the child (parent deceased, sole custody, etc.), other relevant paperwork, such as a court decision, birth certificate naming only one parent, or a death certificate, will be useful.
Many other countries also share this concern for children who travel without both parents. To ensure smooth travel, we require you to comply with the travel regulations of each country visited. This information may be obtained from a country's consulate or embassy.
Authorization for Emergency Medical Treatment
In the unlikely event of a medical emergency, a medical facility will require permission from the child's parents to provide treatment. Therefore, we strongly suggest that you bring along a letter from both parents (including other pertinent documents as cited above) authorizing emergency medical treatment for their child.
Children who are U.S. citizens must have a passport valid for at least six months beyond the completion of the journey.
We are not responsible for the disruption of travel caused by the improper documentation of any guest, including children traveling without both parents. While there is no definitive format or standard, click here to view a sample letter for guardians or one parent traveling with a child.
If you are traveling from the U.S., the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires that your name, as it appears on your domestic or international airline ticket, must precisely match your name as it appears on the government-issued photo ID (i.e., passport or driver's license) that you present during security screening. The ID name must also match any additional airline data, such as frequent-flyer information. For example, if you present your driver's license to security and it says John T. Smith, your ticket must also say John T. Smith, not John Thomas Smith, Jack Smith, or any other variant. Your date-of-birth and gender information provided to the airline must also match your passport.
If you make your air travel arrangements through us, please ensure that the name you provide us precisely matches your name as shown on the identification you will use while traveling. If you make your own airline reservations, please ensure that the airline has the correct information.
For more information on the TSA's requirements, please visit their website by clicking here.
If you are traveling from an airport outside the jurisdiction of the U.S., you will need to determine what travel documentation and identification is required for that particular airport.
Due to heightened security regulations, certain items such as a metal nail file, pocketknife, cigarette lighter, or tweezers, and some liquid, gel, or aerosol items may not be permitted in your carry-on luggage. Please call your airline prior to departure to obtain current information on non-permissible carry-on items and recommended airport check-in times.
Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – we've partnered with New Headings who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Click here to visit their site.
Your journey is designed with leisure in mind. Dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is adaptable and allows for layering. Generally, during the day, casual, comfortable, cotton clothing is recommended. Cool weather at higher elevations or at night will require warmer, layered clothing. We recommend that you pack lightly for your trip to Japan, as there is very little room for luggage aboard the trains and you will pack an overnight bag for your stay at the Kagaya Hotel on Day 7 and at the Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort & Spa on Day 10. The balance of your luggage will be transported by luggage truck and there will be no access to the remainder of your luggage for those two nights. A small bag with wheels that you can comfortably manage on your own without assistance is strongly suggested.
We recommend that you dress smartly. Jeans and capri pants are suitable for casual dining and sightseeing. However, shorts are rarely seen outside of hiking or sport venues, unless they are longer-length Bermuda shorts. Most women wear cropped length pants and they do not, as a rule, wear t-shirts. Most wear a conservative top that may be sleeveless but is not low-cut, and many Japanese women wear heels even with casual clothes.
Shoes that are easily removed are essential, as it is customary to remove shoes when entering temples, shrines, private homes and certain restaurants. Clean socks and hosiery are also required to avoid unnecessary embarrassment.
Japan's top French restaurants usually require jackets and ties. The older generation considers it inappropriate for women to wear dresses without hose or tops without sleeves.
Bring packets of pocket-sized tissue and handkerchiefs, as tissue and paper towels are often not found in lavatories.
We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor's prescription or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you, a list of the generic names of your medication, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed.
Following is a list of recommended items to pack for your journey to Japan:
All hotels and motor coaches used on this tour are air-conditioned for your comfort.
The official currency for the Japan is the Japanese Yen (JPY).
Travelers' checks and major international credit cards are accepted by leading banks, hotels, ryokan (Japanese inns) and stores in major cities. However, when traveling outside of major cities it is best to obtain local currency first. Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs) are commonly available in large urban areas throughout Japan; however, many do not accept foreign credit cards or cash cards and their service hours are very often restricted. We advise you to contact the institution that issued your card to determine where you would be able to use your card. Foreign credit, debit and cash cards can be used at Post Office ATMs in locations throughout Japan. Post offices where this service is available display stickers indicating which cards are accepted. Cards from the Cirrus, Plus, Maestro and Visa Electron networks can be used. Accepted credit cards include Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Diners Club.
You may obtain the most current exchange rates for all national currencies by checking your local newspaper or by logging on to oanda.com by clicking here.
Each country we visit has its own customs clearing process. You should familiarize yourself with Japan's specific required customs declarations before you travel. In general, you are not permitted to bring live plants, fresh fruits and other produce items into most countries. You may find additional information by visiting VisaHQ.com by clicking here.
If you are a U.S. resident traveling internationally who will be returning to the U.S. at the end of the tour, you are entitled to a duty-free exemption based on the total value of merchandise purchase abroad, as long as you physically bring them with you. There are limits to the amount of alcohol that can be a part of this exemption. Certain restrictions apply to unaccompanied goods mailed from abroad to the U.S. Please call your local customs office or consult the U.S. government's customs regulations as contained in their publication entitled Know Before You Go.
If you are a resident of another country traveling internationally, please refer to your own country's rules and regulations regarding customs and duty-free shopping to ensure compliance upon your return.
Many countries levy Value Added Taxes (VAT) on consumer goods and services. (The tax rate may be higher for luxury items and lower for basic goods.) As a rule, if you are not a resident of the country (or of the country's intergovernmental economic community, e.g., the European Union) in which the purchase is made, you may be entitled to a VAT refund and should inquire about the refund policy where you shop.
The electrical current throughout Japan is 100 V, AC. There are two kinds of frequencies in use: 50 Hertz in eastern Japan (Tokyo) and 60 Hertz in western Japan (Kyoto). If your electrical devices do not meet these standards, you may need to bring the appropriate converters and adapters.
Complimentary basic Internet where available in hotel rooms; service levels are not guaranteed. We recommend that you consider three other types of Internet access while in Tokyo or any other part of Japan:
Japan is 9 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (or Greenwich Mean Time). Japan does not observe Daylight Savings Time. To determine current time in major cities around the world, we suggest that you log on to the Internet website, timeanddate.com, by clicking here.
The highest overland elevation is 4,455 ft (1,358 m) while traveling through the "Alps of Japan" on Day 10. The highest overnight elevation is 2,157 ft (657 m) at the Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort & Spa.
The weather throughout the Japan's four main islands is generally temperate, with four distinct seasons. The weather can get very hot during the summer months, particularly in the South. May, June and July are the wettest months, and June, July and August are hotter and more humid.
To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website, noaa.gov, by clicking here.
To help expedite your booking, please have the following information ready before you call us:
For reservations, call 800-788-7885 or contact your travel agent to book today!
Tauck Reservation Sales Counselors are available:
Monday through Friday 6 am - 8 pmSaturday 9 am - 5 pmSunday 12 pm - 5 pm (Eastern Time)
Monday through Friday 6 am - 8 pmSaturday 9 am - 5 pmSunday 12 pm - 5 pm (Eastern Time)
Deposit Date
Upon your request, we will hold space tentatively for you and give a "Deposit Due Date," by which a deposit must be received or space is automatically released. Your deposit is $600 per person.
Special RequestsWe will be happy to advise hotels of any special requests, provided we receive them at time of booking. We regret that requests cannot be guaranteed.
Final Payment is due at Tauck's Norwalk, CT office 60 days before departure. Any bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice.
Final Documents, which may include airline tickets, when applicable, are sent by first class mail upon receipt of final payment. They include joining instructions, hotel lists, tour itinerary, clothing suggestions, luggage tags and other pertinent information. We recommend overnight mailing service for any reservation that is made within 30 days of the tour departure date to ensure timely delivery. The additional expense will be added to your tour cost.
Tauck's Guest Protection
Guests booking a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing cancellation protection from Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Travel Protection Plan is available to all travelers, with the exception of residents of Puerto Rico.
Under Tauck's all-inclusive Guest Protection, you can cancel your tour for any covered reason up to the day before departure and receive a money-back refund (except in Extreme Circumstances*) on the land tour cost, based on your original method of payment. The following conditions apply:
Section I Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck: Should you have to cancel your journey for any reason, Tauck's Cancellation Waiver reduces the regular cancellation fees outlined herein, provided we are notified of cancellation before your journey departs. Certain terms and restrictions apply (see below*).
Section II – Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by Transamerica Casualty Insurance Company. Should you have to cancel your trip due to illness, injury, death or other covered reason, any cancellation or airline penalties not refunded by Tauck under Section I's Cancellation Waiver would be reimbursable under Section II. This Protection also provides 24-hour emergency assistance services as well as:
The cost of Tauck's Guest Protection is $555.00 per person.
This protection provides insurance coverage that applies only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.
Travel insurance is underwritten by: Transamerica Casualty Insurance Company, Columbus, OH; NAIC #10952, (all states except as otherwise noted) under Policy/Certificate Form series TAHC5000. In CA, HI, NE, NH, PA, TN and TX Policy/Certificate Form series TAHC5100 and TAHC5200. In IL, IN, KS, LA, OH, OR, VT, WA and WY Policy Form #'s TAHC5100IPS and TAHC5200IPS. Certain coverages are under series TAHC6000 and TAHC7000. 26325543
The Guest Protection plan waives cancellation fees outlined, provided we are notified of cancellation before your tour departs. Tour cancellation fees are waived regardless of reason, without written notice, and Tauck will refund land tour cost.
This optional Guest Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included with initial payment. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your tour reservation. Guest Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Cost is not refundable under any circumstances. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.
*Extreme Circumstances: In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.
If You Have to Cancel
Cancellations Fees – Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. Therefore, the following fees apply.
Guests choosing to purchase Tauck's Guest Protection will incur cancellation penalties of $555.00 per person regardless of cancellation date prior to tour departure date.
Guests choosing not to purchase Tauck's Guest Protection will incur cancellation penalties per person as follows:
Time of cancellation will be when notice is received in our Norwalk, CT office.
In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control, Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation terms outlined herein.
Tour Interruption Fees – If you have to interrupt your tour en route, you may be entitled to a refund of land tour costs if it exceeds 24 hours; certain restrictions apply. Such refunds are based upon the number of overnights missed less $40 per day for unused transportation and other fixed expenses.
Partial Room Cancellation – A person who cancels or leaves a tour while a roommate remains constitutes a cancellation of one type of accommodation and rebooking of another type of accommodation. The price charged the remaining person is the new, higher price for the new accommodation.
Click here to download our complete Description of Coverage.
Airfare may be purchased through us for travel originating in the United States. By using our air services, you agree that we, in purchasing, selling or otherwise arranging air transportation, are acting only as your agent and are not liable or responsible for any accident, death, personal injury, illness, property damage, delay or other loss or expense of any nature whatsoever arising directly or indirectly out of any act of God, or any actions or omissions (including any failure to provide services) or default of, any carrier. All carriers are independent contractors and are not owned, managed, controlled or operated by us. Your airline ticket constitutes a contract between yourself and the airline only, even if purchased through us. We are not liable for, and do not assume responsibility or accept claims with regard to seat assignments, schedule changes, flight changes, cancellations, claims for a refund or reimbursement of airline ticket fees, or any other loss incurred by you for any reason whatsoever (including, without limitation to, bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization or similar relief from creditors). We must handle ticketing for our special fares, which are subject to availability and cannot be guaranteed until reserved. Our air services can only be purchased in conjunction with a one of our tours. Tickets or e-ticket numbers will be mailed with final documents. If you cancel or change your air booking before or after departure, all airline cancellation and change fees will apply.
Overall Rating:
Five stars for Kit Loose, the tips in his booklet, his back-stories, and his music. The local guides, Mickey and Co Co were added much. The St. Regis, Osaka, Hyatt Regency Hakone, and the Mandarin were exceptional. We'll remember the Japanese cuisine, their art, and the cleanliness of their cities and courtesy of the people.
Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely
Learning about the fabulously polite Japanese culture from our Tauck tour director was fascinating. We saw the back roads of Japan not just the tourist spots you would expect. The Alps are spectacular and the Geisha performance was unforgettable.
Holly Worthington
We had a hoot in the group drumming session!
Our two weeks in Japan featured being taken care of in the inimitable Tauck way: great hotels, good food, comfortable travel, superb guides. The tour included several amazing surprises like the Itchiku Kubota Museum that left us speechless. We even got to try out a couple of new things, and who doesn't love A5 Waigu beef! Highly recommended!
The Itchiku Kubota Museum where we saw the results of his exquisite craftsmanship and artistic eye. Everyone in the group left in an elevated state.
It was wonderful. We had the best guide. Very thorough and kind. Helpful and funny.
Saw a lot of Japan. Not too much English spoken there. However people are very kind and considerate.
Beautiful Japanese Alps and Gardens.
Loved doing the hands on things. Like drum lessons, tea ceremony, sushi making and origami.
Thank you for sharing your comments regarding your experience in Japan. We look forward to having you on another tour with us in the future!
-The Tauck Guest Relations Team
Norma B
Great trip to Japan.Got to experience new culture and traditions.The Japanese people are the nicest we've met on any of our trips. A trip of a lifetime!
Riding the bullet train and a visit to Hiroshima.
It was full of meaningful experiences: Shinto ceremony, tea ceremony, origami lessons, cooking lessons, Sumo wrestling exhibition, Geisha, a drumming class. Our tour guide gave us many insights into the culture and history that helped us understand the Japanese perspectives and sensitivities. Educational,Enjoyable and inspiring
We visited a rice farm and were able to actually plant some rice. We heard from the farmer about the challenges of rice farming in modern times and to witness his enthusiasm for keeping the ancient agricultural traditions alive.
Japan with Tauck was a bit different than our first trip 45 years ago, on our own, while my ship was in Yokouska Naval shipyard for repairs. This time our every need was anticipated, prepared for and addressed. Our guide was constantly evaluating our upcoming plans to assure our time spent was most enjoyable, regardless of earthquakes or weather.
The outdoor museum at Hakone was one of the best tour visits, but the most memorable moment was experiencing an earthquake on the 38th floor of our hotel.
My two week tour of Japan was wonderful. This was my tenth Tauck tour and one of the best. Memorable, informative, scenic and surprising! We had an excellent guide. The Japanese people are friendly and helpful.
I loved the sumo wrestler demonstration!
This was a great tour. There were many wonderful sights and experiences. The tour director was excellent. My wife and I especially enjoyed the open air museum, kimono museum, geisha evening, sumo exhibition and the scenery in the countryside. Experiences such as the drum lessons and sushi making certainly added to the trip.
Margo Lyn
The trip was particularly interesting because Japan is a very different culture than the West. I appreciate the attention to detail that the people at Tauck put into planning the details. I particularly appreciated the guide in Osaka, he was very well informed, enjoyed his job and imparted his enthusiasm.
Loved the Outdoor Sculpture museum, the Kimono museum,
I need to mention that we had a problem when with our ticket when we arrived at the Narita airport. The person who helped us was unbelievable, so helpful and patient. He couldn't have been any better than he was and with his help things were cleared up. It is great to have a person of his quality.
Our trip was really entitled "Essence of Japan" - - but it was characterized by excellence. From our Tauck Tour Director to our local Japan guides, to our accommodations and dining, to the "Extras" that characterize Tauck Tours - - this was a truly excellent introduction to Japan.
There were more than one - - but all involved our active participation. These included an origami class, a sumo wrestling demonstration, a sushi class, a Geisha performance, a trip to a rice farm, and a taiko drumming class and demonstration! Lots of interesting shrines and temples, but these "active" activities for us were the best!
We are so glad you enjoyed the variety of activities on this amazing journey! Thank you for choosing Tauck.
Trying to get a true flavor of a really foreign country -- different alphabet, manners, history -- is tough in 6 months, let alone two weeks. But Tauck did an amazingly good job. We were presented with a wide variety of experiences, well explained and well planned, while traveling in comfort and security. A winner.
Hard to beat a clear view of Mt. Fuji, but the Hiroshima experience will stay etched in my mind.
My wife and I went on the Tauck "Essence of Japan " in April 2015. We have travelled on 3 previous Tauck tours to India, Russia and China so we felt we knew what to expect from a Tauck trip. What we experienced was very different from those prior trips. Tauck does not provide enough space to say all that was wrong such as poor hotel selection....
The group we traveled with was a very well educated and friendly group that in most cases had done many trips with Tauck. I liked walking though Takayama but wished the group was smaller. 35 people was too many. I liked the drum lessons we did. The train to Hiroshima was memorable. Very much liked walking the streets of Kyoto with my wife.
Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?No
I am sorry you were disappointed with the hotels on this journey. I have passed along your comments to our Operations' team for review.
The St. Regis in Osaka was marvelous and (except for the Hyatt) it was all down hill from there. The room at the Okura Hotel in Kyoto smelled of cigarette smoke and was shabby; the Associa in Takayama was far out of town, had no bar and the staff was not friendly; Four Seasons in Tokyo was the worst with a king bed and a cot. It was unacceptable!
Seeing Mt. Fuji
We are sorry you were disappointed with some of the hotels. I have passed along your comments to our Operations Manager for further review. Thank you for taking the time to write this review.
Knowledge from local tour guides was great. Learnt about the Japanese way of life,enjoyed the food and culture.
I would suggest Tauck looked into hygiene on the buses.That is passing on flu's etc to other passengers maybe make everyone were masks if they come on board with flu symptoms, THIS WAS NOT DONE OF OUR TRIP BY YOUR TOUR DIRECTOR
The hotel in the community of Wakura Onsen.
We are glad you enjoyed the food and culture in Japan. We spoke to our Operations' team and they said that the motor coaches in Japan meet our strict standards for cleanliness. However, we will look into having more hand sanitizers available to prevent the spreading of germs. thank you for travelling with Tauck!
Japan is filled with surprises. The tour takes an unusual route through the Japanese Alps to provide the hot springs onsen experiences as well as the typical big cities and traditional sights that must be seen, e.g., the golden pagoda and many Shinto shrines. We found that our free time sorties provided biggest insights into this charming country.
Many "most memorable" moments including Kagaya ryokan, eating where the sumo wrestlers bulk up, shopping for kimono, geisha entertainers, and the silly contests devised to keep us occupied as the coach kept rolling along.
This was a trip of a life time! I learned and experience the culture, history, food, and the arts. Japan is a clean and beautiful country. And the people are so kind and helpful. Our tour director Bill, was organized and made sure everything ran smoothly. He has a wonderful sense of humor, told funny stories & made our long bus rides tolerable.
Many memorable moments: Hiroshima-UNESCO site, onsen bath with a view of the city of Takayama, Kagaya Hotel-a Japanese ryokan-style hotel where we experienced wearing a yukata & sleeping on the floor, Shirakawa-go-UNESCO site of a village with the traditional thatched-roof houses, colorful fall foliage in the Japan Alps & Taiko drum lesson.
Pros :
The trip is an excellent balance of sightseeing , cultural immersion and art. The itinerary is well chosen , and even if for some guest the Ryokan was "too authentic " ,I believe it is an interesting experience. Two excellent Japanese local tour guides.
Unusualy poor Tauck TD , unlike any other tour taken.
The experience overall ,combined with the good choice of hotels and sites.
Tour hit all the significant highlights of Japan. Even Japanese people with whom we discussed our trip, were impressed by the breadth of sites we visited.
Tour Director and local guides were a wealth of information and went out of their way to satisfy everyone's wishes and requirements.
Would like to return when the cherry blossoms are in bloom!
Visiting Kyoto, because it is more of the traditional (old) Japan that we were looking for. We experienced the remnants of a typhoon the day we visited the Gion district, but we loved it anyway and plan to return to spend more time in Kyoto.
We also spent an extra week in Tokyo and, much to our surprise, we spent two of those days in Ueno Park!!
It was the essence -- and it was wonderful. Japan is a country that I feel everyone needs to visit and experience. It is unique in every way. The guide is very knowledgeable, transportation from one place to the other is easy with Tauck. There needs to be more time in Tokyo -- Fish Market, Shibyu Crossing, etc.
The sights visited and guides on the tour are for the most part very interesting. The Associa hotel in Takayama is not a top class hotel and the hotel in Kyoto is well located but needs refurbishing. Far too many Japanese only meals. Except for breakfast food was poor and very disappointing. Food on Tauck China tour was much better.
Overall a good opportunity to see highlights of Japan.
Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Maybe
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback with us. We are pleased that you enjoyed your over trip but most apologetic that some aspects of this tour fell below your expecations. Your comments will be shared with our management and addressed appropriately. We thank you for your patronage and do hope you will travel with us again.
Ranks among the favorites of our Tauck tours. The country is beautiful, safe and clean. In addition to temples, shrines and museums, we had a tea ceremony; had origami, Taiko
drum & sushi making lessons, rode the bullet train and more. We enjoyed the onsen baths and witnessed an ancient Shinto blessing ceremony. Our Guide Kit Loose was excellent.
Too many wonderful moments from which to choose. We loved Kyoto and the beautiful Kagaya resort on the west coast and the Hakone
Hyatt in the east. Hiroshima was an emotional experience that we won't forget.
St. Regis, Hyatt & Mandarin Oriental are outstanding: a perfect balance of Japanese & western influences as related to atmosphere, food & gracious service. Kagaya offers a unique cultural experience with traditional Japanese service/ambiance. Rooms at Okura & Associa lack ventilation/need refurbishing. Meals range from very good to disappointing.
Cherry blossoms, geisha evening, Hiroshima, Mt. Fuji, Festival Float Museum, Kubota Museum, Hakone Open Air Museum, natural beauty of Japan.
Insight/information provided by both local Japanese guides.
Enthusiasm of Tauck program director.
Mandarin Oriental Tokyo!
People watching!!!
Suggestion: Extend your time in Tokyo & visit Tokyo DisneySea!
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback. We are pleased you enjoyed your over journey and but disappointed that some aspects fell below your expectations. Rest assured, we will immediately look into your comments and will take any and all corrective actions. Thank you for your patronage and we do hope that you'll travel with us again.
Every Day was a perfect day with a variety of experiences. The tour is so well thought out and perfectly paced. The accommodations were varied and wonderful from top hotels to those with with hot springs baths. I loved the variety of lessons from oragami folding to cooking class to drumming. I liked menus from traditional Japanese fare to western.
There were many. I loved Kyoto as more of old Japan is visible. Found Kagaya with hot mineral bath surprisingly wonderful.At home thought I wouldn't partake;tour director's and daughter's enthusiasm changed my mind - went twice!
The Kanazawa Kenrokuen (gardens) were magical would have liked more time there; gardens are a strong interest of mine.
Tauck had booked my air travel for me, but nobody met me at the airport. I did not have enough Japanese yen for a taxi. I can not speak or read Japanese. I was a woman traveling alone in a strange country. Nobody answered the emergency after hours contact phone number. To date I have not received as much as an apology from Tauck!
My arrival-alone and unmet.
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your feedback. We are most apolegetic that you were not met at the airport upon arrival. One of our Guest Relations Specialists will contact you to discuss this matter.
Though everything on the tour was interesting and/or wonderful with great guides and a great group, we felt rushed through most of the best places without enough time to fully "take it all in", like having an extra half hour after the tours to experience the beautiful Japanese gardens, temples, Mt. Fuji. We spent more time over mediocre lunches.
Toss up: Mt. Fuji and gardens, conveyor belt sushi diner, Mitsukoshi food court, Itchiku Kubota Art Museum, onsens (spas).
The trip provided us with a very thorough description of Japan, it's people, it's traditions, it's food, it's history. We discovered a country of very proud and ceremonial people. Our guide, Kit Loose was very passionate and shared with us his love for Japan, as well as the Osaka/Kyoto local guide Mickey, always with a big smile.
It is difficult to identify one only moment: may be the dinner in Kyoto with the Myko and the Geiko where a world of images that we have seen in movies and read in novels became real and we were part of it.
We are thrille dyou enjoyed your journey to this wonderful part of the world!
Myron Nadel
My third Tauck tour was perfect as were the others. Tour Director, Kit Loose, was knowledgeable, fun, and attentive keeping a special eye out for those traveling alone. He (like the other directors before) made sure that vegetarian food was always available and even assisted my meeting professional acquaintances during off hours.
All moments were enjoyable and educational, but the wow factor when seeing each hotel may have been the most striking.
We are delighted you enjoyed your over journey to this facinating area and we thank you for taking the time to share your feedback with us.
Simply magnificent! The history, the culture, the values of these fabulous people were captured vividly by Tauck, its director and the two guides. The atmosphere of the places, temples and shrines filled our expectations with great positivity. The grace of the tea party, experience with geishas and also work with origami brought us much joy.
Let say some most memorable moments:
Miyajima Island, Hiroshima, Kyoto and its Kinkakuji Temple, Nara and its Sanjusangendo Temple and its collection of 1.001 statues of Kannon, Itchiku Kubota Museum in Takayama, Mt. Fuji and Tokyo.
Thank you so much for your feedback and we are delighted you enjoyed your overall journey!
We should have travelled to Japan 20 years ago when it was not so commercial & westernized! That being said, the country, especially the alps & the local people are simply beautiful! Kit is extremely knowledgeable & professional as were the local guides. Too many 'dinners on your own' & contirved places to visit. Too many people on the trip!!!!!
Seeing Mt Fuji, seeing a Geiko in Hakone and staying in the Japanese ryokan-style hotel all gave us a flavor of Japan. The St. Regis, Mandarin and Hyatt were excellent!
We are most apologetic that some aspects of this journey fell below your expectations. One of our Guest Relations will contact you shortly to discuss this matter in more detail.
This has to be one of Tauck's best trips. The title of this trip says it all. The variety and the events captured the true essence of Japan. The lodging accommodations, food, and the Tauck Director were over the top/excellent. The trip had great pace and flow.
We are definitely planning another Tauck trip soon.
Seeing, hearing, and experiencing the local and cultural life of Japanese people. We saw temples, shrines, kimonos, & museums. We had onsen bath experiences, drumming demonstrations and participation, saw a maiko (Geisha in training) performance, origami, tea ceremonies, and rode the "bullet train".
We are so very pleased you enjoyed this journey!
In our 2nd tour to Japan (2005 & non-Tauck), we found that we had an opportunity to experience a wide variety of what makes Japan unique. The itinerary provided an easy entry into a different culture (Osaka), then to countryside/mountains, ancient and finally, insane Tokyo + incredible experiences. Tour Director (Kit Loose) made it perfect!
The Shinto blessing ceremony at the shrine in Tokyo.
Dear Mr. Kaplan,
We are very happy to learn that you enjoyed your journey and we thank you for your feedback.
Edel K.
Meg Morrison
This was a wonderful trip. We had so many opportunities to experience the culture and history of Japan. Our leader prepared us each day for what we would be doing and informed us of appropriate etiquette for visiting the shrines, temples, and onsens. The pacing of the trip allowed us to have some afternoons on our own to explore or rest up.
The ryokan experience was really special. I loved dressing up in yukata and eating with chop sticks. Soaking in the hot tubs were an opportunity to mingle with Japanese visitors. I also thought the day we went to the cooking school and made our own sushi was one of those especially unique Tauck experiences.
Stuart and Jan
The Tauck "Essence of Japan" Tour provided us with an immersion into the culture, beauty and deeper understanding of the lovely people of this fascinating country. Although we had visited Japan before, the unique experiences provided by Tauck, with the consummate guidance and co-ordination by the Tour Director were beyond our expectations.
The following three moments were equally memorable:
1. The drive through the "Japanese Alps" from Takayama to Hakone.
2. The live performance of Shinto music and ancient Kagura dance at the Meiji Shrine in Tokyo.
3. Early morning tranquility of the Sea of Japan.
Fantastic in depth itinerary. We couldn't have asked for a more. Everything from the first day to last was well planned so that we experienced the Japanese culture and it's rich history. Fast paced days with lots of walking and some long bus rides. Our tour director was amazing as were our two local guides.
Hard press to pick a most memorable moment. I would have to say my interaction with the Japanese people but the visit to the Ryokan Spa was a real treat.
So glad you loved your trip! It is truly an amazing part of the world that shouldn't be missed. Thanks for sharing your wonderful experience and we hope you'll travel with us again.
this was the trip of a lifetime. Tauck took us on so many different activities that tourists would not normally see. It was more than the "essence" of Japan.
the taiko drumming class and the sushi making at the cooking school
From Tokyo to a Ryokan and especially Hiroshima, the Essence of Japan still sticks in my mind and I can't forget our Tour Director!
A night at the Ryokan and Hiroshima
C Mary
Due to the quake in March you were forced to postpone my trip, but is was more than well worth the wait. The most amazing, knowledgeable and entertaining director ever (Kit Loose), and great local guides (Chiya-san and Machiko-san) who knew the 'little' details of things that make it so much more interesting. Anyone who stayed away because of fear after the quake, etc, really missed out, it was all safe and clear.
Special thanks to Kit for handling the yukata problem I had.
There were so many moments. How to chose one?
The tangerine given to me by the grandmother sitting across from me on the train; making it to the top of Matsumoto Castle; azuka bean and black sesame ice cream.
But the most memorable was helping elementary students on a field trip with their English conversation assignment. They had to ask if they could speak with you and then ask the questions in their workbook and write my answers. They were so fun and we all laughed together.
Our tour director, Kit Loose, was outstanding, witty, and helpful throughout the tour. It really helped that he understood the Japanese culture and spoke Japanese.
There was a balance of touring and free time. Our visits to the museums, shrines, temples, and drives through the Japanese Alps, and introduction to the various styles of Japanese cuisine made for a memorable trip.
With the "Wow factor" in Kyoto, I really can't fathom why the 2012 tour is starting in Osaka.
Learning origami and calligraphy. Visiting the Hiroshima Museum. Visiting the Itchiku Kubota (Kimono)Art Museum and the outdoor sculpture museum! Meeting a Maiko.
Exquisitely organized incorporating the best tourist sites, the arts, and the economical/political arena of the Japanese people. Kit, our guide, was knowledgeable, personable, and super organized besides just being fun and down to earth. The two, local guides were seasoned and at the top of their careers. Well done, Tauck!
Hiroshima was the most memorable site we visited. An historical and significant page in US's history, it is a moving war memorial captured by the people who "woke the sleeping dragon."
Bill Dix
Tauck did a wonderful job in making the trip perfect. The guide, Kit, was great as were the hotels where we stayed. Our highlight were meeting and seeing the Japanese along with their traditions. Loved the children.
One of the most memorable experiences was the farewell dinner with the invited Geisha.
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Itinerary Subject To Change
Longitude Books has been recommending reading lists, maps, and travel guides to Tauck guests for many years. Our reading lists are custom-designed to complement specific Tauck destinations.
To view this tour's reading list or to purchase a selection, please click on the following link:
Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – and depending on the destination, what to pack might include footwear, sunglasses, binoculars, hats, etc. We've partnered with New Headings who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Just click the link below and check out all of the great suggestions to make what you pack that much easier!
The tour was superb and we highly recommend it... it did give you a taste of the 'Essence of Japan' with a great Tauck Director and an outstanding local guide. The opportunities to experience the 'Onsen', wear a Yukata and stay one night in a traditional Japanese hotel were not to be missed...
Malcolm & Jenette Galloway, Australia
The tour was superb and we highly recommend it... it did give you a taste of the 'Essence of Japan' with a great Tauck Director and an outstanding local guide. The opportunities to experience the 'Onsen', wear a Yukata and stay one night in a traditional Japanese hotel were not to be missed...
Malcolm & Jenette Galloway, Australia
Tell us a little about yourself and we'll make sure you get the most relevant information.
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Hi Everyone, Today I have for you another inspired recipe from my trip to Baton Rouge. On my trip we went to a wonderful little Bistro that served up the yummiest food. Bistro Byronz has a menu with the most unusual treats, such as its homemade chips with Blue Cheese dressing, talk about oh my […]
Baked Blackened Shrimp #BRFoodieFAM
Baked Pickles with Ranch Dressing #FarmtoJar
Baked Maple Glazed Bacon
Simply Balanced Easy Bake Pasta
Asparagus,Tomato and Dill Egg Bake
Pizza Muffins – SRC
Hey, hey hey!!! Happy Monday to you! I am writing this post wayyyyyyyyyy in advance because I got my dates messed up for my Secret Recipe Club reveal day, it's a good thing I'm early and not late! I have to tell you I'm pretty excited for today's recipe. It's so cute, so tasty and a big hit with […]
Roasted Root Vegetables
Hi Everyone, One thing I like about this time of year are the vegetables. Yes vegetables! In the spring its berries, berries and more berries but in the winter it is root vegetables! They last a long time, some are sweet and others have the most distinctive flavor like fennel, and whats best they […]

subset: commoncrawl


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From a Jamaican Gully Town to Jamaica, Queens, Young Money's Drake and Lil Wayne have the mixtape circuit in a tizzy right now. Drake's Wayne-featured "Miss Me" — which we told you about months ago — is a must-have for mixtape DJs right now. It may be the biggest new song to hit the circuit in weeks.
Added by G5 NEWS on May 29, 2010 at 1:05pm — No Comments
Added by G5 NEWS on May 29, 2010 at 1:00pm — No Comments
The O.D.: A Mixtape Daily Exclusive T.I. said he isn't dissing mixtape DJs or making a disparaging statement about the mixtape circuit by naming his new street project F--- a Mixtape. Rather, the King of the South said, he's actually going up against people who tried to discourage him from making a mixtape at this point in his multiplatinum, Grammy-winning career.
Added by G5 NEWS on May 29, 2010 at 12:38pm — No Comments
50 Cent lost a lot of weight for his upcoming movie "Things Fall Apart". In the movie 50 Cent plays a football player diagnosed with cancer. He dropped from 214 pounds to an astonishing 160 with a liquid diet and three-hour-a-day treadmill walks for nine weeks.
Added by G5 NEWS on May 29, 2010 at 12:33pm — 2 Comments
Added by G5 NEWS on May 29, 2010 at 12:30pm — No Comments
Added by Janey Godley on May 28, 2010 at 7:29pm — No Comments
Rihanna is currently playing around with Matt Kemp of the L.A. Dodgers, but in case it doesn't work out men out there interested in scoring a chance with her one day should listen up.The singer tells Scotland's Daily Record newspaper that its all about humour and any man that wants to be a man of hers has got to be able to make her laugh. "Definitely a guy with a sense of humour because I love to laugh. Someone who doesn't take themselves…
Added by G5 NEWS on May 24, 2010 at 12:00pm — 4 Comments
Rapper Lil Kim has joined Jay-Z's management company, Roc Nation, and Kim's fellow Brooklynite will executive produce the album as well. A number of sources have reported the news, including gossip blogger Perez Hilton. No formal announcement has been made even though one is expected shortly.
Added by G5 NEWS on May 24, 2010 at 11:00am — No Comments
A man who shot and killed an up-and-coming rapper at the Beverly Center last year was acquitted of murder Friday in a case that focused in part on the victim's violence-laced gangsta rap lyrics. Aubrey Berry, 24, was hugged by his defense attorney as the last of the not guilty verdicts was read in a downtown Los Angeles courtroom. Friends and family of rapper Dolla, whose real name was Roderick Anthony Burton II, wailed and sobbed in the…
If the Notorious B.I.G. were alive today, he would've turned 38 years old on Friday (May 21). But he's not, and most likely -- if he's looking down upon his friends -- it's likely that he'd love to see his Junior M.A.F.I.A. crew still working together like they did while he was alive.
Added by G5 NEWS on May 23, 2010 at 8:30am — No Comments
IJUMAA Newspaper REPORTS:- Kile kilio cha muda mrefu cha wasanii kulalamikia kulizwa na mdosi katika usambazaji wa kazi zao kinaelekea kutatuliwa, na watatuzi si wengine bali ni vijana wadogo ambao ndiyo wakurugenzi wa site ya wajanja ya G5 Click. Blogu hiyo ambayo ni namba moja nchini kuanzia layout, ripoti za muziki wa kiwanja na ndani ya nchi, wametangaza kuwa hivi sasa wanajipanga ili waweze kusambaza…
Added by WE ARE G5 on May 22, 2010 at 5:30pm — No Comments
XXL Teen extra Awards inazidi kuleta mzozo, categories ni nyingi na kila moja inavutia ila kuna moja ipo interesting kwa namna yake, hii ni Music Website of the Year ambayo imepewa herufi D. Katika category hiyo, vichwa kadhaa vimesimamishwa, DJ Choka (D2), Bongo5 (D3), DJ Fetty (D4), Babkubwa…
Added by WE ARE G5 on May 22, 2010 at 5:30pm — No Comments
As it was exclusively announced by G5 CLICK on CLOUDS FM during an interview on XXL (Extra Extra Large) with B12 and Fetty, G5 CLICK ENTERTAINMENT COMPANY is Gonne start selling & distributing Bongo
music, Movies & Videos, Artwork, Ringtones, E-Books and Tickets
through it's social network website (www.G5click.com).
This service will be available to people all over the world…
Added by WE ARE G5 on May 22, 2010 at 5:06pm — No Comments
Kama ilivyotangazwa kwenye kipindi cha XXL cha Clouds FM, wafuatao ndio waliochagulia kushindana katika tuzo za TEEN XTRA AWARDS 2010 na makundi yao.. G5 click ni moja ya waliochaguawa kushiriki katika awards hizi katika kundi la BEST MUSIC WEBSITE OF YEAR.. Unaweza kupiga kura yako kupitia mtandao wa…
Added by WE ARE G5 on May 22, 2010 at 5:00pm — No Comments
YUNG NELLY kutuka G5 Entertainment ameachia nyimbo inayoitwa I'M A G5
iliyofanyika studio za FISHCRAB chini ya producer LAMAR.. ( www.thisislamar.com )…
Added by WE ARE G5 on May 22, 2010 at 5:00pm — No Comments
"It was all a dream, I used to read Word Up magazine. Salt-N-Peppa and Heavy D up in the limousine. Hanging pictures on my wall, every Saturday Rap Attack Mr Magic Marley Marl" -- Notorious B.I.G.
Added by G5 NEWS on May 21, 2010 at 7:30pm — No Comments
Added by Janey Godley on May 21, 2010 at 6:30pm — No Comments
Justin Bieber nominated for a BET Award? Seems like an odd match, but the teen superstar is in fact nominated for Best New Artist at the upcoming awards show. Biebs will face off against Young Money, Wale, Melanie Fiona and Nicki Minaj. "He makes the type of music our audience likes," Stephen Hill,…
Added by G5 NEWS on May 20, 2010 at 4:30pm — No Comments
It's that time of year again. The nominees for the 2010 BET Awards were announced today (May 18) in New York City and Jay-Z received the most nods. Jigga is in the running in four categories including Best Male Hip-Hop Artist, Best Collaboration for "Empire State of Mind" with Alicia Keys, Video of the Year for "Run This Town" and "Empire State of Mind," and Viewer's Choice. He was…
Added by G5 CLICK NEWS on May 20, 2010 at 12:04pm — No Comments
Keri Hilson made her first trip to South Africa. After an exhausting 32 hour trip, Keri visited Robben Island where Nelson Mandela spent most of his 27 years in prison. Afterwards she visited the Origins Centre and got to see the first human remains that were found in Ethiopia. Which confirmed for her that mankind comes from Africa.


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The Washington Youth & Families Fund is a ground-breaking public-private partnership dedicated to making youth and family homelessness rare, brief and one time. With funding from 25 public and private partners, we support 88 organizations throughout Washington State with grantmaking, capacity building, and policy guidance.
Support Services
Our service grants support two models of funding:
- The Moderate-Needs Family Model emphasizes activities that promote employment opportunities and children's services, as well as case management support.
- The High-Needs Family Model focuses on permanent supportive housing with intensive services for homeless families with multiple barriers to housing.
Systems Innovation
We make targeted investments to change the way public systems, services (housing, counselling, and training), and communities work together to prevent and end homelessness. See Systems Change for our key strategies.
Funding Availability
See Current Opportunities for information about funding availability for support services and systems innovation.


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-50 for sniper
-50 for sniper
... and what's his mouse sensitivity?
72's the best sensitivity for ME.. but dude it honestly depends on the person. Theres
no like exact sensitivity to make people pros..
idk, idk, idk! 60?
One thing you should never do is change you sensitivity because you will find yourself having to learn how to snipe all over again.. Just stick with one sensitivity and play with it forever.
Professionals in KSF use 0-15. I'm using 10. At first, it'll be hard to turn around but once you get use to it, you'll think its fast. I use 10 sensitivity for sniping and spraying and occasionally i think its a 65 sensitivity.
Razer deathadder
automatic sensitivity default boosting by 25x
in-game sensitivity 99 (it feels faster than 100)
computer built sensitivity at max
i move roughly 1 inch for 360 turn
Last edited by Loupy; 07-18-2010 at 01:27 PM.
a 1000 dpi mouse and 55 sensitivity works great for me :D
Every sniper varies, but if you want a direct answer, i would say 72.


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http://www.drvc.org/joomla/einnahme-levitra-10-mg/ cheap canadian no prescription.Submitted by Lynn Holforty on October 12, 2012
On Saturday, November 10, 2012 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dr. Diana Hulse will conduct a workshop on becoming effective group leaders and members. The workshop will be held in Fairfield University's Dolan School of Business Dining Room.
Much of the work we do in our world happens in groups; it is hard to imagine activities that do not include interactions with others to complete tasks, solve problems, address problematic aspects in one's life, or acquire information. We are sometimes leaders of groups; most often we are members of groups. In this workshop, participants will be introduced to a conceptual framework to consider across the broad application of group work. Concepts of voice, meaning, mutual construction of knowledge, and transfer of learning provide a means for understanding how and why groups work. Through short lecture, small group discussion, demonstrations, and reflection, participants will gain tools for making the broad application of group work a productive and satisfying reality.
Dr. Diana Hulse, professor and chair of the Counselor Education Department at Fairfield University, received her master's and doctoral degrees from Indiana University. She has co-authored two books and numerous refereed publications. In 2012 she received the Alpha Sigma Nu Graduate Teacher of the Year Award at Fairfield University. Dr. Hulse has been a counselor educator at Ball State University, the University of Maine, and the University of New Orleans. She is a National Certified Counselor and a Licensed Professional Counselor in Connecticut.
There is no cost to attend the workshop, but space is limited.
To register:
Email the following information to firstname.lastname@example.com:
Phone number
If you are interested in receiving .4CT Department of Ed. CEUs or 4 NBCC Continuing Ed credits.
The registration deadline is November 1, 2012.
The workshop is sponsored by Gamma Lambda Chi, Fairfield University's chapter of Chi Sigma Iota, The Connecticut Counseling Association (CCA).
Tiny URL for this post: http://www.drvc.org/joomla/cialis-20-mg-indonesia/ where to get pct.


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One of Blueway Adventure's shuttle trailers parked in front of the new Robert Clark Park and Blueways access point.
- Filed Under
When the city cuts the ribbon on the new Robert Clark Park and Blueway access point off of Tiny Town Road Saturday, it will be easier than it's ever been for recreational paddlers to access Clarksville's network of creeks and rivers.
But it also may be harder than ever for novice paddlers to get paddling equipment after the the only mobile outfitter of canoes and kayaks in Clarksville, a company that has shuttled more than 1,300 aquatic adventurers within city limits over the last year and a half, was barred from using city parks by the Parks & Recreation Department.
The city says it wanted to work ...


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Originally posted by Journey
I speak the truth- quit for a month and then tell me you do not feel better. And so willl everyone else around you.
Beautiful MD.
anyone can get caught up in bad habits, but to actually think it's "cool" is disappointing to me
Originally posted by MickeyDee
therefore the nagging stops!!!
Originally posted by LadyV
I am a bit disappointed now....there are a couple of people in this thread that I had always thought of as well informed and intelligent, I liked to read their posts....anyone can get caught up in bad habits, but to actually think it's "cool" is disappointing to me......it's kind of a let down when you find out like you've been duped or something ::::sigh:::::shk:
Originally posted by optimus fett
in fact....native american indians were the coolest ever....they were always smoking that peace pipe thingy......do deny smoking is to deny being cool and peace!!
Originally posted by optimus fett
in fact rant....i am probably cooler than you......because iam just sparking up a big cuban!!!....sooooo cool!


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Dillon Rossi was just your average country boy when he won a modeling contest held by Max Ryder. The prize? A fishing trip complete with endless fucking!
More Galleries from Cocky Boys Click to see all 333 Galleries
There are 3 comments on this gallery
ducksoup September 29, 2012 - 08:22:02 (See all My Comments)
Dillon is so sexy!!! Love pic#10 with that cock in his mouth!Reply
bike10 September 27, 2012 - 16:48:24 (See all My Comments)
Nice fish pole to catch your load.Reply
rhodie September 25, 2012 - 15:47:50 (See all My Comments)
I like the dude with the darker hairReply


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"Leave Britney Alone!" guy gets 15 more minutes - VIDEO
44 Blue says it's had an eye on Crocker for over a year but decided to scoop him up when he got massive play last week. If it ever gets a green light, 19-year-old Crocker's program will be reality-style, about his life in Tennessee with his grandparents.
Crocker's famous video is after the jump, and here is where you can see Seth Green's spoof of Crocker.


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National Interagency Fire Center brings in two large planes to combat fires
By On Your Side Newsroom. CREATED Jul 24, 2014
The increase of wildfires across Idaho has prompted the National Interagency Fire Center to bring in two C-130 Hercules planes from Wyoming to combat the fires.
Lt. Col Bryan Allen explained that, "This time of the year you get fires breaking out quickly like the ones the other day near Boise and we can use these planes when crews get overwhelmed."
The C-130's are able to do large airdrops and were active in fighting the Mack Fire today.
- Latest


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The Saving Water, Saving Energy blog provides news, resources and analysis on water, energy, and climate change issues with an emphasis on the inextricable connections between water and energy, also know as the Water-Energy Nexus.
Click below to view blogs updated by the River Network staff.
Our Partners are some of the smartest, wittiest and most interesting people we know...and we're not just saying that. Check out what some of them have to say via their blogs.
Thanks to the wonderful folks at the Alliance for Water Efficiency I learned this morning that Congress recently acted on major water efficiency legislation in the House and Senate, including the introduction of a new federal program that would provide $50 million dollars in funding for a water-efficiency and conservation rebate program.
As the Alliance for Water Efficiency explained in an email:
The Water Advanced Technologies for Efficient Resource Use Act was introduced by Reps. Holt (NJ) and Miller (CA) in the House on May 12, 2009, and provides for $50 million dollars in funding for state and local rebate and incentive programs that encourage the early adoption of water efficient products and services. Additionally, the bill authorizes WaterSense as a permanent EPA program, expands the scope of products covered under the program, and directs the federal government to purchase water efficient products and services. The bill, H.R. 2368, has been referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce as well as the Committees on Oversight and Government Reform and Armed Services.
The Water Infrastructure Financing Act, which passed the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee on May 14, 2009 with overwhelming bipartisan support, contains authorization for EPA's WaterSense program and provides for up to $10 million dollars in funding for the program. In addition, the bill authorizes both the Clean Water and the Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (SRF), expanding eligibility for funding for storm water management projects, water efficiency or conservation projects and reuse and recycling projects. The bill, S. 1005, has been referred to the full Senate for action.
Over the last few months, the Alliance for Water Efficiency has been tracking Federal legislation that deals with water efficiency. For more information on the aforementioned bills, as well as continued updates on new legislation, check out the A4WE Legislative Watch page.
This is great news for river and watershed groups seeking to protect our freshwater resources by minimizing human water demands. Establishing WaterSense as a permanent program illustrates a long term commitment to using water more efficiently. While water legislation occasionally receives bipartisan support, try sending a letter, making a phone call or staging a demonstration to make sure your representative in Congress understands how important sustainable water supplies are.


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There might be another baby on the way for Bey!
Page Six reports that multiple sources have told the publication Beyonce is expecting her second child with hubby, Jay-Z.
Rumors began to circulate when photos from her World Tour went viral showcasing, what looks like, a pretty decent size baby bump on the singer.
There are even reports that the Beyonce's Givenchy dress was specially designed to conceal her growing midsection at last week's Met Gala.
Bey's reps have yet to comment on the pregnancy rumors ... but the singer recently said that she'd love to give Blue Ivey a sibling.
In a recent interview, the 31-year-old told ABC's Amy Robach "I would like more children. I think my daughter needs some company. I definitely love being a big sister."
Do you think Beyonce is pregnant? Sound off below!
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