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 All the tradition, beauty, culture and majesty of Japan are rolled into one in this unforgettable land/air adventure. Welcomed by local dignitaries and the region's hot air balloonists, you'll enjoy balloon flights each morning over rugged hills and deep valleys, viewing the breathtaking Zao, Fungagata and Kunikona mountain ranges. A traditional Japanese meal follows each trip, along with daily opportunities to explore the historic and cultural treasures of the area. You'll witness the amazing balance of modern living and historic tradition, enjoying exquisite foods and traditional pleasures and accommodations. This idyllic setting is home to the Iwadeyama Balloon Festival in which you'll participate, viewing a panorama of unparalled color in the autumn landscape below. Here's what what's in store:
You'll arrive at the Tokyo Four Seasons Hotel and take time to relax in preparation for your foray into the enchanting Japanese culture. You'll start your adventure with afternoon high tea, followed by the first of many splendid, traditional Japanese dinners.
 Your host will meet you at the hotel at 10:00 a.m., and you'll travel by bullet train north to the Sendai province. Once there, you'll be greeted by your pilot and US Team members, and be escorted to your hotel in Iwadeyama. The day will be completed by a gracious reception and dinner with local dignitaries and Japanese balloon team members, providing an unforgettable experience of the legendary warmth and hospitality of this country.
 Each day will begin early with a traditional Japanese breakfast, followed by a breathtaking balloon flight to watch the rising sun as the mist clears. With the hot air balloon festival in full swing, you'll participate in both early morning and afternoon flights. Then to complete your daily adventures, sightseeing tours are arranged in the area of each day's landing. You'll experience firsthand the sites you saw from the sky-from rice fields, tidy flower gardens and tea houses to feudal remains, museums, shrines and sake factories.
 You'll begin again with an early morning balloon flight, followed by travel through rugged mountainsides to the Naruko Kanko Hot Sulphur Springs Hotel. Prepare to relax both mind
and body, as only slippers and a kimono are required to navigate the hotel in a state of utter comfort. You'll luxuriate in your favorite spot at the spa, and then retire to prepare for dinner. Both the restaurants and their cuisine are exquisite, and the number of courses seemingly limitless. It's a day of adventurous pampering, indeed.
You'll take breakfast in the Naruko Hotel, and treat yourself again to the pleasures of the Sulphur Springs and spa. After lunch is served, you'll spend the afternoon touring the region's unexpected delights from drying persimmons to neat, patchwork fields banked with levees. Then you'll join your host for a magnificent Japanese dinner, and turn in for the night at the Naruko Hotel.
 Today you'll return to the Tokyo Four Seasons Hotel and the bustle of sophisticated, urban Japanese life. After taking afternoon high tea, you'll prepare for an evening on the town. You'll enjoy a lavish dinner and peruse the fabled Ginza (Tokyo's Times Square), taking part in Tokyo's colorful nightlife to complete your final day.
You'll awake for a last breakfast at the Tokyo Four Seasons Hotel, and then proceed to Narita Airport for your journey home.
Dates: November 22 - 30, 2007
Price: $1,550 per day per person
Switzerland in Winter - the Alps, the Chateau d'Oex valley and the International Balloon Festival
Switzerland in Summer - Jungfrau and Emmental Regions
France - The Loire Valley
Japan - Sendai Province, Miyagi Prefecture
Brochure Cover (PDF 1.81MB)
Balloon Brochure A (PDF 6.85MB)
Balloon Brochure B (PDF 7.17MB)
1. Tours can be booked for a 5-day minimum.
2. All prices are quotes in U.S. dollars.
3. All reservations are guaranteed with a 20% deposit. The balance is due 60 days prior to departure.
4. Tour price includes: participation in hot air balloon event, hot air balloon flight daily (weather permitting), first class hotels, 2 meals daily (continental breakfast and dinner with wine), sightseeing and ground transportation arranged by our staff.
5. Tour does not include: air transportation to event, passport, airport departure or arrival taxes, rental cars, rental or purchase of any personal items, laundry, valet, alcoholic beverages (in room or out) except those served by USHABT.
6. Participants are required to sign a release of liability at the time of final payment.
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