16 Jul 2015
This December, leave the UK behind and head somewhere new for an alternative Christmas shopping break. Take advantage of the strong British pound against the Japanese yen and visit Kyoto, Japan's cultural capital where visitors are able to step back in time and marvel at the city that was once Japan's capital.
As visitors wander the streets of the beautiful city, they can stop off at some off at one of many independent boutiques selling traditional hand-crafted gifts from the region. With this is mind, holidaymakers will be able to surprise a loved one this year with a traditional hand-made gift from the city, such as beautiful woven textiles, personalised wooden signs and traditional paper fans.
In addition, travellers can also get the best value for money when shopping as they are able to purchase selected items in Japan tax-free from selected tax-free outlets such as department stores. Unlike other countries, in Japan the tax deduction will be given at the time of purchase.
When it comes to the most popular activities in December, a must for all visitors is a trip to Arashiyama Hanatouro in the west of the city. Running from 5pm until 8.30pm between 11-20 December 2015, visitors can enjoy seeing the stunning temples and shrines as they are illuminated by lanterns for special night-time viewings. Visitors can walk the 5km loop taking in the illuminated All Bamboo Forest, Flower Promenade and the Togetsukyo Bridge, foothills and waterfront.
Throughout the month of December, many of Kyoto's iconic central locations will also be beautifully decorated by Christmas lights, creating an atmospheric hub for all visitors.
To enjoy Kyoto this December, packages from the UK include:
11 Night 'Kansai At Christmas' Tour From £2,393 Per Person
InsideJapanTours is offering an 11-night 'Kansai at Christmas' package including four nights in Kyoto, two nights in Kinosaki Onsen, two nights in Mount Koya and three nights in Osaka from £1,637 per person. Price is based on two sharing and includes return flights from London to Osaka on selected dates in December and 11 night's accommodation in hotels, ryokans and traditional Shukubo temple lodgings. Meet and Greet airport transfers, all transport between destinations, a one day private guide in Kyoto and a morning of food shopping followed by a home cooking class is also included. For more information, visit www.insidejapantours.com or call 0117 370 9751.
3 Nights In Kyoto and 4 Nights in Tokyo Package From £2,070 Per Person
Audley Travel is offering a nine-day trip to Tokyo and Kyoto departing on selected dates in December from £2,070 per person. Price includes return UK flights, transfers and mid-range accommodation (4 nights in Tokyo and 3 nights in Kyoto). Further details, contact Audley Travel on 01993 838 200 or visit www.audleytravel.com.
For more information about Kyoto, visit kyoto.travel/en.
-ENDS-
About KCVB
Kyoto Convention and Visitors Bureau is the official partnership for international tourism representation of the City of Kyoto, Japan. Kyoto's diverse history and reputation as Japan's original capital and cultural centre provide a wealth of opportunities for tour operators and travel agents. The city is home to the Imperial Palace whilst also being the only place where 'real' geishas can still be seen, its old temples and Zen gardens interspersed with urban living means that Kyoto is a striking contrast of heritage and modern city. Its location just 25 minutes from Osaka and 2hrs 15 minutes from Tokyo, make it easily accessible from Japan's two main international gateways.
For more information or imagery, please contact:
McCluskey International
Fiona Anderson / Lauren Hill
T: 020 8747 2170
