china group tours to japan

China lifts bans on group tours to US, Japan and other key markets

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Reporting by Casey Hall in Shanghai, Sophie Yu in Beijing and Joyce Lee in Seoul; Additional reporting by the Beijing newsroom, Kanishka Singh and David Shepardson in Washington and Doyinsola Oladipo in New York; Editing by Jamie Freed, Edwina Gibbs and Andy Sullivan

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Casey has reported on China's consumer culture from her base in Shanghai for more than a decade, covering what Chinese consumers are buying, and the broader social and economic trends driving those consumption trends. The Australian-born journalist has lived in China since 2007.

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China approves Japan, U.S., other destinations for group tourism

South Korea, Australia, Myanmar, India, Pakistan, Turkey also included in list

TOKYO -- The Chinese government released a new list of destination countries for outbound group tourism, including Japan, South Korea, Australia, the U.S. and the U.K. on Thursday, a move that will give a lift to retailers and other travel-related businesses in those countries.

According to the announcement, the application process for group tours begins Thursday. New countries approved by the Chinese government include India, Pakistan, Qatar, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Lebanon, Turkey and Israel, Mexico, Germany, Finland, the Netherlands, Sweden.

Japanese shy away from foreign trips months after reopening

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China group tours return to Japan but 'explosive spending' unlikely

TOKYO - Chinese group tours are back in Japan but anyone banking on them arriving in droves and splashing around cash like they did before the pandemic is likely to be disappointed.

An ANA Holdings flight on Wednesday evening brings in the first package tour visitors from Beijing since China lifted its pandemic-era restrictions on the trips to Japan and other key markets including the United States.

But hopes that the return of packaged tours will herald big returns for department stores, hotels and restaurants in Japan are clashing with a Chinese economy struggling to post significant growth and Japan’s controversial plans to release treated wastewater from the wrecked Fukushima nuclear plant into the sea.

“Chinese consumer sentiment is cooler than ever, and the desire to save is increasing,” said Sony Financial Group economist Takayuki Miyajima.

Isetan Mitsukoshi is expecting less “explosive buying” at its department stores now that many high-end brands are available within China, a spokesman said.

Sightseeing operator Hato Bus also said it was restarting Chinese-language tours in September but with smaller vehicles.

Inbound tourism has become increasingly important to Japan’s economy, helping drive blistering 6 per cent annualised growth in the second quarter.

Before the pandemic, mainland Chinese – who largely prefer to travel abroad in tour groups – accounted for the biggest number of tourists to Japan. They also spent the most.

But since Japan eased its own pandemic border controls in late 2022, the number of Chinese tourists has only recovered to about 20 per cent of 2019 levels, partly because of China’s delay in adding Japan to a list of approved nations for tour groups.

China also vehemently opposes Japan’s plan to release the Fukushima wastewater starting on Thursday, and many Chinese have taken to social media to express their alarm about the safety of Japanese seafood and produce.

How this will affect tourism, however, remains unclear.

The weaker yen has sparked a rebound in US and European tourists that is exceeding pre-pandemic levels, but with their own currency also weaker, the exchange rate does not appear to be a drawcard for Chinese tourists. Neither is the frenzied shopping that was their hallmark, said CLSA Japan strategist Nicholas Smith.

“There have been changes over the last few years to their ability to buy Japanese products in China, so they don’t actually have to travel to do it,” he added, referring to the proliferation of shops selling these goods in the mainland.

Some Japanese retailers say the Chinese tourists who do visit appear to be more discerning.

Komehyo, a major retailer of second-hand luxury goods, said sales to Chinese visitors have been on the upswing since April, and Isetan Mitsukoshi is seeing a shift from mass cosmetics purchases towards experience-based services.

“Now they are more likely to sit down for a skin consultation and then buy products tailored to their needs,” the spokesman said.

Japan Tourism Agency commissioner Ichiro Takahashi told reporters on Tuesday that Chinese group tourism is expected to gain momentum through the September-October autumn months.

A severe labour crunch, however, may hamstring Japan’s ability to get the most out of this rebound. More than three-quarters of restaurants and hotels reported a shortage of temporary workers in April, according to the most recent survey by researcher Teikoku Databank.

“Even if they want to accept Chinese group tourists, they may not be able to,” said senior economist at Mizuho Research & Technologies Yayoi Sakanaka. REUTERS

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China group tours return to japan but 'explosive spending' unlikely.

By Maki Shiraki, Rocky Swift and Irene Wang

TOKYO (Reuters) -Chinese group tours are back in Japan but anyone banking on them arriving in droves and splashing around cash like they did before the pandemic is likely to be disappointed.

An ANA Holdings flight on Wednesday evening brought in the first package-tour visitors from Beijing since China lifted its pandemic-era restrictions on the trips to Japan and other key markets including the United States.

But hopes the return of packaged tours will herald big returns for department stores, hotels and restaurants in Japan are clashing with a Chinese economy struggling to post significant growth and Japan's controversial plans to release treated wastewater from the wrecked Fukushima nuclear plant into the sea.

"Chinese consumer sentiment is cooler than ever, and the desire to save is increasing," said Sony Financial Group economist Takayuki Miyajima.

Isetan Mitsukoshi is expecting less "explosive buying" at its department stores now that many high-end brands are available within China, a spokesperson said.

Sightseeing operator Hato Bus also said it was restarting Chinese-language tours in September, but with smaller vehicles.

Inbound tourism has become increasingly important to Japan's economy, helping drive blistering 6% annualised growth in the second quarter.

Before the pandemic, mainland Chinese - who largely prefer to travel abroad in tour groups - accounted for the biggest number of tourists to Japan. They also spent the most.

But since Japan eased its own pandemic border controls late last year, the number of Chinese tourists has only recovered to about 20% of 2019 levels, partly because of China's delay in adding Japan to a list of approved nations for tour groups.

China, meanwhile, opposes Japan's plan to release the Fukushima wastewater starting on Thursday, and many Chinese have taken to social media to express their alarm about the safety of Japanese seafood and produce.

How this will affect tourism, however, remains unclear. Sun Lei, one of the organisers of the tour that arrived at Tokyo's Haneda airport on Wednesday, said the tour took less than 24 hours to fill. "They're all very thrilled," she said of the group of more than a dozen.

Beijing teenager Xu Zichang, on his fifth trip to Japan, said he was really keen on sampling new food.

"I'm most looking forward to some fresh food," he said. "I like Japan very much."

EXPERIENCES NOT HAULS

The weaker yen has sparked a rebound in U.S. and European tourists that is exceeding pre-pandemic levels, but with their own currency also weaker, the exchange rate doesn't appear to be a drawcard for Chinese tourists. Neither is the frenzied shopping that was their hallmark, said CLSA Japan strategist Nicholas Smith.

"There have been changes over the last few years to their ability to buy Japanese products in China, so they don't actually have to travel to do it," he added, referring to the proliferation of shops selling these goods in the mainland.

Some Japanese retailers say the Chinese tourists who do visit appear to be more discerning.

Komehyo, a major retailer of second-hand luxury goods, said sales to Chinese visitors have been on the upswing since April, and Isetan Mitsukoshi is seeing a shift from mass cosmetics purchases toward experience-based services.

"Now they are more likely to sit down for a skin consultation and then buy products tailored to their needs," the spokesperson said.

Japan Tourism Agency Commissioner Ichiro Takahashi told reporters on Tuesday that Chinese group tourism is expected to gain momentum through the September-October autumn months.

A severe labour crunch, however, may hamstring Japan's ability to get the most out of this rebound. More than three-quarters of restaurants and hotels reported a shortage of temporary workers in April, according to the most recent survey by researcher Teikoku Databank.

"Even if they want to accept Chinese group tourists, they may not be able to," said Yayoi Sakanaka, a senior economist at Mizuho Research & Technologies.

(Reporting by Maki Shiraki, Rocky Swift and Irene Wang in Tokyo and Sophie Yu in Shanghai; editing by Miral Fahmy)

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Japan welcomes return of Chinese group tours amid labor shortage fear

Japanese businesses welcomed China's announcement on Thursday that Japan-bound group tours will resume following a hiatus due to COVID-19, hoping for the return of bakugai — the term used to describe "explosive" big-budget shopping by Chinese tourists — but some industries expressed concern about labor shortages .

The tours will "increase the number of visitors to Japan and revitalize the economy," said Koji Shibata, president of ANA Holdings Inc., ANA's parent company.

Major department store operator Isetan Mitsukoshi Holdings Ltd. has prepared for a rise in duty-free shopping, having already increased the number of service counters in their shops since the end of fall last year.

Smaller stores in popular tourist spots, such as Tokyo's Asakusa district, were also heartened by the news.

"There are sure to be people who want to do a lot of shopping after not being able to come for years," said Koji Ojima, 51, who runs a souvenir shop on the Nakamise shopping street running to Senso-ji temple.

"It's not a big store, so I'll have to devise measures to allow more customers," he said.

An official of a tourism organization in Japan's northernmost prefecture of Hokkaido said expectations are high that the local economy will get a boost, saying Chinese tourists "are known for spending quite a lot."

In western Japan, Toshiyuki Suzuki, who operates a Japanese-style inn near Nara Park, said his business had previously been badly hit by the lack of reservations from Chinese tourists.

Although preventing the spread of COVID-19 and ensuring there are enough staff are still challenges, the 70-year-old said "hope for a return to liveliness exceeds" the worries.

Seibu Prince Hotels Worldwide Inc., which operates the Prince Hotel brand, said it hoped the influx of Chinese tourists will lead to higher occupancy rates but remained concerned about labor shortages.

The COVID-19 pandemic dealt a heavy blow to the accommodation industry in Japan, causing many employees to quit. A spokesperson said the hotel company would "work on securing people with language skills through various means, including internships."

Despite the optimism across businesses, some experts were skeptical that the resumption of group tours would lead to a surge in Chinese tourists due to the slow recovery of the world's second-largest economy.

Yusaku Nishimura, from the University of International Business and Economics in China, stated that even before the pandemic wreaked havoc, the preferences of Chinese visitors had been shifting from group travel to individual travel and from shopping to unique personal experiences.

The professor, who specializes in the Chinese economy, expressed hope that the resumption of group tours will boost consumption in Japan. However, he noted the impact "may be limited to factors such as the weak yen."

China on Thursday lifted group tour restrictions for Chinese nationals, a measure that had been in place since January 2020.

In February and March, China announced the resumption of overseas group tours for Chinese citizens after a roughly three-year hiatus, but the tours were limited to a total of 60 countries, with Japan excluded from the list.

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Chinese Group Tours to Japan Resume After Ban is Lifted

By Ichiro Ohara / Yomiuri Shimbun Correspondent

1:00 JST, August 20, 2023

GUANGZHO, China — Chinese tourists heading for Japan formed waiting lines at airports in China on Friday, as a ban on group travel came to an end.

Travel agencies in China were flooded with reservations for group trips to Japan as demand among Chinese people begins to recover.

At the Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, a group of 26 tourists who were en-route to Osaka, Kyoto and other areas, waited for their flight departure time. One of them, a 21-year-old third-year university student, said with a smile, “I had waited for three years [to travel] because of the novel coronavirus crisis. I want to see beautiful scenery which can not be seen in China.”

An international travel agency firm in Guangzhou, which organized the trip, said that it received about 500 applications to join the tour group since Aug. 10, when the Chinese government announced an end to the group travel ban. An Official of the company said that Tokyo and Osaka are popular destinations among Chinese who want to travel to Japan.

According to the Japan National Tourism Organization and other sources, there were 9.59 million Chinese tourists who visited Japan in 2019, before the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Visitors from China made up about 30% of all foreign tourists, the highest proportion of visitors to Japan.

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China group tours return to Japan but ‘explosive spending’ unlikely

August 24, 2023 at 13:00 JST

Chinese group tours are back in Japan but anyone banking on them arriving in droves and splashing around cash like they did before the pandemic is likely to be disappointed.

An ANA Holdings flight on Wednesday evening brings in the first package tour visitors from Beijing since China lifted its pandemic-era restrictions on the trips to Japan and other key markets including the United States.

But hopes the return of packaged tours will herald big returns for department stores, hotels and restaurants in Japan are clashing with a Chinese economy struggling to post significant growth and Japan’s controversial plans to release treated wastewater from the wrecked Fukushima nuclear plant into the sea.

“Chinese consumer sentiment is cooler than ever, and the desire to save is increasing,” said Sony Financial Group economist Takayuki Miyajima.

Isetan Mitsukoshi is expecting less “explosive buying” at its department stores now that many high-end brands are available within China, a spokesperson said.

Sightseeing operator Hato Bus also said it was restarting Chinese-language tours in September but with smaller vehicles.

Inbound tourism has become increasingly important to Japan’s economy, helping drive blistering 6% annualized growth in the second quarter.

Before the pandemic, mainland Chinese - who largely prefer to travel abroad in tour groups - accounted for the biggest number of tourists to Japan. They also spent the most.

But since Japan eased its own pandemic border controls late last year, the number of Chinese tourists has only recovered to about 20% of 2019 levels, partly because of China’s delay in adding Japan to a list of approved nations for tour groups.

China also vehemently opposes Japan’s plan to release the Fukushima wastewater starting on Thursday, and many Chinese have taken to social media to express their alarm about the safety of Japanese seafood and produce. How this will affect tourism, however, remains unclear.

The weaker yen has sparked a rebound in U.S. and European tourists that is exceeding pre-pandemic levels, but with their own currency also weaker, the exchange rate doesn’t appear to be a drawcard for Chinese tourists. Neither is the frenzied shopping that was their hallmark, said CLSA Japan strategist Nicholas Smith.

“There have been changes over the last few years to their ability to buy Japanese products in China, so they don’t actually have to travel to do it,” he added, referring to the proliferation of shops selling these goods in the mainland.

Some Japanese retailers say the Chinese tourists who do visit appear to be more discerning.

Komehyo, a major retailer of second-hand luxury goods, said sales to Chinese visitors have been on the upswing since April, and Isetan Mitsukoshi is seeing a shift from mass cosmetics purchases toward experience-based services.

“Now they are more likely to sit down for a skin consultation and then buy products tailored to their needs,” the spokesperson said.

Japan Tourism Agency Commissioner Ichiro Takahashi told reporters on Tuesday that Chinese group tourism is expected to gain momentum through the September-October autumn months.

A severe labor crunch, however, may hamstring Japan’s ability to get the most out of this rebound. More than three-quarters of restaurants and hotels reported a shortage of temporary workers in April, according to the most recent survey by researcher Teikoku Databank.

“Even if they want to accept Chinese group tourists, they may not be able to,” said Yayoi Sakanaka, a senior economist at Mizuho Research & Technologies.

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Japan welcomes return of Chinese group tours amid labor shortage fear

Japanese businesses welcomed China's announcement on Thursday that Japan-bound group tours will resume following a hiatus due to COVID-19, hoping for the return of "bakugai," or "explosive" big-budget shopping by Chinese tourists, but some industries expressed concern about labor shortages.

All Nippon Airways Co. and Japan Airlines Co. said they are considering increasing the number of flights between China and Japan in hopes the resumption of Chinese group tours will boost their profits.

The tours will "increase the number of visitors to Japan and revitalize the economy," said Koji Shibata, president of ANA Holdings Inc., ANA's parent company.

Major department store operator Isetan Mitsukoshi Holdings Ltd. has prepared for a rise in duty-free shopping, having already increased the number of service counters in their shops since the end of fall last year.

Smaller stores in popular tourist spots, such as Tokyo's Asakusa district, were also heartened by the news.

"There are sure to be people who want to do a lot of shopping after not being able to come for years," said Koji Ojima, 51, who runs a souvenir shop on the Nakamise shopping street running to Senso-ji temple.

"It's not a big store, so I'll have to devise measures to allow more customers," he said.

An official of a tourism organization in Japan's northernmost prefecture of Hokkaido said expectations are high that the local economy will get a boost, saying Chinese tourists "are known for spending quite a lot."

In western Japan, Toshiyuki Suzuki, who operates a Japanese-style inn near Nara Park, said his business had previously been badly hit by the lack of reservations from Chinese tourists.

Although preventing the spread of COVID-19 and ensuring enough workforce are still challenges, the 70-year-old said "hope for a return to liveliness exceeds" the worries.

Seibu Prince Hotels Worldwide Inc., which operates the Prince Hotel brand, said it hoped the influx of Chinese tourists will lead to higher occupancy rates but remained concerned about labor shortages.

The COVID-19 pandemic dealt a heavy blow to the accommodation industry in Japan, causing many employees to quit. A spokesperson said the hotel company would "work on securing people with language skills through various means, including internships."

Despite the optimism across businesses, some experts were skeptical that the resumption of group tours would lead to a surge in Chinese tourists due to the slow recovery of the world's second-largest economy.

Yusaku Nishimura, from the University of International Business and Economics in China, stated that even before the pandemic wreaked havoc, the preferences of Chinese visitors had been shifting from group travel to individual travel and from shopping to unique personal experiences.

The professor, who specializes in the Chinese economy, expressed hope that the resumption of group tours will boost consumption in Japan. However, he noted the impact "may be limited to factors such as the weak yen."

China on Thursday lifted group tour restrictions for Chinese nationals, a measure that had been in place since January 2020.

In February and March, China announced the resumption of overseas group tours for Chinese citizens after a roughly three-year hiatus, but the tours were limited to a total of 60 countries, with Japan excluded from the list.

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• East Asia Tours

Japan and China Highlights Tour

• Duration 16 Days
• Tour Type Private & Bespoke
• Tour Style Classic
• ITINERARY SUMMARY
• DETAILED ITINERARY

About This Trip

Itinerary summary.

• DAY PLACE HIGHLIGHTS

Tokyo: Senso-ji Temple, Meiji Jingu Shrine, Harajuku Kyoto: Nijo Castle, Kinkaku-ji Temple, Fushimi-Inari Shrine Hiroshima: Itsukushima Jinja, Hiroshima Castle

Shanghai: The Bund, Yu Garden, Zhujiajiao Water Town Guilin: Li River Cruise, Yangshuo Countryside Tour Xi'an: Terracotta Warriors, Ancient City Wall Beijing: Forbidden City, Great Wall, Temple of Heaven

Day 1: Arrival, Tokyo

On your arrival at Narita International Airport, our airport assistant will then guide you to take the public transportation to get to your hotel. The rest of the day will be free to rest and recover from your journey or explore Japan's capital at your own pace.

Day 2: Tokyo

Get up early to explore the world's biggest fresh fish market - Tsukiji Fish Market (closed on Sundays and some Wednesdays). This is also a great place to try some delicious sushi. Later, you will visit the famous Senso-ji Temple, Meiji Jingu Shrine, and Harajuku nearby. After that, you can stroll along the Shibuya area, where Hachiko Dog Statue is located.

Day 3: Tokyo - Kyoto

This morning, you will travel to Kyoto by express train. Your local private guide in Kyoto will meet you and escort you to your hotel by public transportation. You will visit the distinguished Nijo Castle this afternoon, and then you can enjoy your free time at Gion District. You might encounter some beautiful Geisha at Hanami-koji Street if you are lucky.

Day 4: Kyoto

Enjoy a full-day guided tour by public transportation in Kyoto, including Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Sanjusangendo Hall. Continue by visiting the glittering Kinkaku-ji Temple, and the Fushimi-Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates. 

Day 5: Kyoto - Hiroshima

Enjoy free time on your own in the morning. At noon, you will make your way to take Shinkansen (bullet train) to Hiroshima. Arriving in Hiroshima, you will be met by a local assistant and guided to your hotel. 

Day 6: Hiroshima - Miyajima - Hiroshima

At 9:00 in the morning, your private English-speaking guide will meet you in the lobby of your hotel. You will then be escorted to Miyajima by local train and ferry boat.

After arriving at Miyajima, you will pay a visit to the Itsukushima Jinja, also known as Itsukushima Shrine on the sea when the tide rises at Miyajima. Afterward, you will be escorted back to Hiroshima, and visit the Peace Memorial Park, Atomic Bomb Dome and Hiroshima Castle.

Day 7: Hiroshima - Shanghai

Today you will take public transportation to the airport for your flight to Shanghai. On your arrival in Shanghai, China's most modern city, your Shanghai tour guide will meet you and escort you to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to relax.

Note: You will have a private guide and driver in each city in China.

Day 8: Shanghai

After breakfast, your private guide will pick you up from the hotel lobby at the appointed time to start your city exploration from the Bund and the former French Concession. While walking on the streets full of Western flavor, a vivid picture of this cosmopolitan city in old times may come to mind.

Later, you will visit Yu Garden and stroll around Yuyuan Market, and then visit a silk workshop to see how the small cocoons are transformed into elegant silk. After that, get on the top of Shanghai World Financial Center to enjoy a bird-view of the skyline of the city.

Day 9: Shanghai - Zhujiajiao Water Town - Guilin

After breakfast, firstly head to Zhujiajiaoto visit the well preserved ancient town and enjoy its unique water features by boat before going to the airport for your flight to Guilin. On your arrival in Guilin, the most scenic city in China, your personal guide will meet you and escort you to your hotel.

Day 10: Guilin - Yangshuo

Today, you'll go on a leisurely Li River Cruise, which sails downstream to Yangshuo County. During this journey, enjoy the breathtaking views of peaks and pinnacles, crystal-clear water and picturesque pastoral views of rice paddies and water buffaloes. After disembarkation, transfer to your hotel in Yangshuo. Later, take a countryside tour and feel the laid-back ambiance by a bicycle or a private car at your pleasure.

Day 11: Yangshuo - Guilin - Xi'an

After breakfast, drive back to Guilin to have a relaxing walk along the Banyan Lake and Cedar Lake to taste the pleasant atmosphere of this beautiful city. Later, continue to South China Sea Pearl Museum and Reed Flute Cave, and then go to the airport for your flight to Xi'an. On arrival, be met and transferred to your hotel.

Day 12: Xi'an

The highlight of today is the awe-inspiring Terracotta Warriors. You will have enough time to marvel at the grand array of thousands of life size and lifelike clay soldiers, horses and chariots in life size. After that, you will visit Xi'an Art Ceramics Factory, Muslim Street and the Great Mosque.

Day 13: Xi'an - Beijing

After breakfast, you will be escorted to visit the Ancient City Wall.As a well-preserved ancient fortress, the city wall is so thick that you can cycle on the top to get a better view of both the old and new Xi'an. Later, set off to the railway station for your high-speed train to Beijing. On your arrival in Beijing, a local tour guide will meet you and transfer you to your hotel.

Day 14: Beijing

On this day you will first visit Tiananmen Square. Then, passing through the iconic Tiananmen Gate, you will enter the splendid Forbidden City, China's No.1 palace complex, famous for its grand royal buildings, exquisite ornaments and priceless treasures. When leaving the royal palace, continue to Jingshan Park and climb to the top of the hill to enjoy the best panoramic view of the Forbidden City.

Day 15: Beijing, Great Wall Tour

No Beijing tour is complete without a visit to the Great Wall. Today you will tour the magnificent Mutianyu Great Wall with cable car up and down, the 8th Wonder of the World. Walking on the venerable ramparts, you will be amazed at the unbelievable construction and appealing landscape that surrounds the Wall.

Descending from the Great Wall, you will stop by a jade gallery and then take a leisure stroll along the Sacred Road, a royal path noted for vivid stone statues and afterlife stories.

Day 16: Beijing, Departure

After breakfast, you will visit Beijing's spectacular Temple of Heaven where emperors in ancient times worshiped heaven each year for a national good harvest. Here you can also enjoy watching locals doing their special morning exercises. Later, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to your next destination.

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• 16-Day Japan and China Discovery Tour

Discover world-famous landmarks such as the Great Wall of China and historical cities such as Xi'an and Kyoto, and witness the vibrant cultures of East Asia, as you experience the best of Japan and China on a 16-day leisurely tour (easily adapted to be a 2-week or 3-week tour). It covers iconic cities like Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, Nara, Beijing, Xi'an, and Shanghai. With our carefully-designed itinerary and expert guides, this adventure tour is sure to create unforgettable memories and a comprehensive view of the Far East. Come with us and have the journey of a lifetime!

• Best For: First-timers, families, food enthusiasts, lovers of Asian culture
• Departure date: up to you
• Sample Price: from US$ 6,699 each (2 per room); 4-6 persons, save US$ 400 each!

This is an ideal tour for first-time visitors and families to both Japan and China. Sign up for your favorite part of the tour or simply treat the whole tour as inspiration, designing each element specially for you.

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

Journey Route

Enter into the history of china and japan by visiting unesco sites and discovering their hidden corners., taste the exotic savory flavors of east asia., make your own terracotta warriors after finding out the secrets of the terracotta army., delight in the captivating panorama of tokyo city from the heights of the renowned sky tree tower ., experience the breathtaking scenery of hakone from multiple perspectives., listen to the echoes of history while cycling or walking on the ancient xi'an city wall ., dress in a traditional kimono to truly experience the authentic allure of kyoto., take a leisurely stroll through nara park and interact with over 1,200 tame deer., indulge in ultimate relaxation and serenity at a traditional japanese ryokan (inn) with an onsen (hot spring bath) in hakone., hear untold tales of the bund and ascend shanghai tower for panoramic views., have your own guide and private vehicle during the guided day..

Explore similar itineraries: 16-Day South Korea and Japan Cultural Adventure Tour 16-Day Japan and China Discovery Tour

Itinerary in Detail

We're ready to refine and design your own dream journey based on your preferences! Our team will create a tailor-made Japan and China tour, just for you. The following is to give you an inspirational example of what is the core of Japan and China touring.

Welcome to Japan, a country that uniquely blends ancient traditions with cutting-edge technology. From the bustling streets of Tokyo and tranquil gardens of Kyoto, to flourishing Osaka and the breathtaking cherry blossom season, Japan offers something to delight every traveler.

Savor traditional sushi , ramen , wagyu beef, and hot springs ( onsen ) for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. With expert guides and a tailored itinerary, your Japan tour would be an unforgettable journey.

After your arrival at the airport, your private driver will welcome you with a name board and transfer you to your hotel. You'll have the rest of the day to relax and explore at your own pace.

Experience an unforgettable day exploring Tokyo with your own private guide:

• Begin your adventure with a visit to Meiji Shrine , where you can witness traditional Japanese weddings and pay your respects to Emperor Meiji.
• Take a stroll along picturesque Omotesando shopping street, famous for its broad tree-lined avenue and flagship stores of the world's top fashion brands.
• Visit iconic Senso-ji temple in Asakusa, one of Tokyo's oldest and most famous Buddhist temples. Take in the striking architecture and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this cultural hub.
• Riding the elevator up the magnificent Tokyo Skytree offers you a chance to marvel at the city's awe-inspiring panorama from its high-altitude observation decks.
• Finally, lose yourself in the energetic streets of Shibuya , home to the famous Shibuya Crossing and an abundance of shopping and entertainment options.

Embark on a memorable journey through Tokyo's most iconic attractions:

• Begin by immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Tsukiji Fish Market , renowned for its vast array of seafood and bustling market life.
• Elevate your culinary skills with an authentic sushi-making experience , led by a local sushi chef. Savor the exquisite flavors of your handcrafted sushi during a delightful lunch, while basking in the satisfaction of your newfound talent.
• Unwind and appreciate the tranquil beauty of Hama-rikyu Gardens , one of Tokyo's most stunning traditional Japanese gardens.
• Immerse yourself in the pulse of Japan's dynamic pop culture at an anime-themed cafe ! A delightful escapade into a colorful, animated universe brimming with vibrancy and excitement!
• Embark on an effortless journey to Hakone Yumoto station from Shinjuku station using your Hakone Freepass and Romancecar ticket. Enjoy a relaxing 90-minute direct journey to your destination.
• With the hassle of transportation taken care of, you have the rest of the day to unwind and explore at your own pace. Soak in the beauty of the surrounding nature or indulge in the area's famous hot springs for an ultimate relaxation experience.

Unleash the full potential of your Hakone Freepass and explore all that Hakone has to offer! Enjoy the freedom to get on and off various regional transport at your leisure, with the added benefit of discounted admission to multiple attractions in the region.

• The Hakone pass covers eight different forms of transportation, including trains, buses, cable cars, cableway, and sightseeing cruise, making it easy to see all the major sights of the region.

Alternatively, relax at your hotel and soak in the rejuvenating hot spring bath after a day of travel. Take advantage of the luxurious amenities and soak up the stunning scenery around you.

In the morning, make your way to Odawara station using your Hakone Freepass and use the train ticket to board the Shinkansen to Kyoto.

• On arrival at Kyoto station, make your own way to your hotel using your Shinkansen ticket.
• The rest of the day is free time.

On the seventh day, we would explore the former imperial capital of Kyoto with a knowledgeable local guide and have your own private vehicle to visit some of its World Heritage Sites:

• The day begins with a visit to Kinkakuji Temple , also known as the Golden Pavilion. Originally built as a retirement villa for a shogun, this iconic temple was later converted into a Buddhist temple, making it one of Kyoto's most famous and revered landmarks.
• Don't miss the chance to explore Nijo Castle , an ornamental castle built by the founder of the Edo Shogunate as his Kyoto residence. Surrounded by stunning gardens, this castle's main building was completed in 1603 and is renowned for its unique architecture, decorated sliding doors, and 'chirping' nightingale floors.
• Take a leisurely stroll down Nishiki Market , a narrow, five-block long shopping street lined with over a hundred shops and restaurants. Known as "Kyoto's Kitchen", this vibrant retail market specializes in all things related to food, including fresh seafood, knives, and cookware. There, you can indulge in seasonal delicacies and Kyoto specialties such as Japanese sweets, pickles, dried seafood, and sushi.

Choose from a wide array of traditional kimonos and let local experts style you to perfection. Seize this exceptional opportunity to navigate local terrains in genuine Japanese garb, stirring a deeply transformative travel experience.

Take a serene stroll up to the " Pure Water " Temple , Kiyomizu, for a immersive cultural plunge. Soak in panoramic Kyoto vistas from its nail-free, 13-meter-high Main Hall veranda. Even amid restorations, this quintessential Kyoto marvel stands a breathtaking sight to behold.

Journey from your hotel to the historic city of Nara, under the guidance of a local expert. Nara, a cradle of heritage, was Japan's capital in the 8th century for 74 years. The testament to this glorious era lives on in the myriad of remaining temples and shrines, quietly narrating tales of the past.

• Experience the artistry of Matcha at Kyoto's centuries-old tea house in Uji. Revel in a day interspersed with tradition, history, and exquisite green tea flavors.
• Take a leisurely stroll through Nara Park, also known as Deer Park, where you can interact with over 1,200 tame deer that call the park home.
• Your journey continues to the grandeur of Todai-ji Temple , a marvel of wood that stands as the world's largest, cradling within it Japan's most magnificent Buddha.
• Quench your thirst at a traditional sake brewery , where you can sample different types of sake and discover your favorite.
• On the way back from Nara, visit Fushimi Inari Shrine , which was featured in the movie Memoirs of a Geisha . This shrine is home to over 10,000 red torii gates that form a beautiful path up the mountain behind the temple.

Day 9 of our Japan adventure is your chance to relax or explore Osaka on your own before your private driver takes you to the airport for your flight to Beijing, the capital of China.

Upon arrival in Beijing, your local guide will meet you and transfer you to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.

Ready for Beijing? Let's begin the day trip by visiting the symbol of new China — Tian'anmen Square .

• From there, proceed to the Forbidden City , the largest and best-preserved ancient imperial palace, with a rich 500-year history. While most tour groups only visit the six halls on the central axis, your private guide will help you explore 12 carefully-selected places to fully experience the grandeur and beauty of this historic site.
• Indulge in a delicious lunch of Beijing Roast Duck , where you can watch the chef's exquisite cutting skills, savor the crispy duck skin, and learn the proper way to eat it.
• After lunch, spend a leisurely afternoon exploring the charming hutong alleyways , where you can soak up the local atmosphere and learn about the daily lives of Beijing residents.
• Start the day's touring at the Temple of Heaven , where emperors prayed for a good harvest. Arrive early to witness locals practicing martial arts and engaging in other unique activities that you may not see in your home country.
• In the afternoon, visit Mutianyu , the top-ranked section of the Great Wall on TripAdvisor due to its picturesque scenery and beautifully-restored architecture. Although it is about a 2½-hour drive from downtown Beijing, the stunning views and unforgettable experience make it well worth the journey.
• Marvel at the stunning imperial garden of the Summer Palace , originally the summer retreat of the imperial court and now a peaceful escape from the summer heat.
• Experience China's technological development as you race towards Xi'an on a high-speed train . This is a unique and exciting way to travel and witness the modern advancements of China's transportation system.
• Start your day by uncovering the mysteries of the underground army that dates back to 206 BC at the Terracotta Army Museum . Then, visit a local craftsman's cave dwelling to learn how to make a mini terracotta warrior .
• Return to the city area and visit Xi'an City Wall , which has been guarding the inner city for over 600 years. Walking along the wall provides a stunning view of the city, or you can rent a bike to cycle around the 14 km (9-mile) wall for a unique leisurely experience.
• Explore more of Xi'an's rich history at Small Wild Goose Pagoda, Xi'an Museum and Big Wild Goose Pagoda , then head to the Muslim Quarter to wander through the alleys and savor the local Muslim cuisine.
• In the afternoon, your guide will take you to the airport for your flight to Shanghai. Upon arrival, your Shanghai guide will meet you and escort you to your hotel, where you can rest and recharge for the next day's adventures.
• Experience more than just taking a few selfies on the Bund during our In-Depth Bund Culture Discovery Tour, where you will travel back in time to the golden age of the Bund in the 1920s.
• Explore some of the old Bund buildings and listen to their fascinating stories. Then, ascend the tallest building in China, Shanghai Tower , where you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of Shanghai and witness the vastness of the largest city in China.

On the last day of this itinerary, your private car, driver, and guide will be awaiting you at your hotel lobby, ensuring a timely arrival at the airport.

As you sit back and relax, they will provide check-in assistance and escort you to the correct security gate. Experience stress-free travel and a delightful journey home as they cater to your every need.

Ideas for Making This Trip Uniquely Yours

Special experiences can be added to brighten a honeymoon trip, a family vacation, a birthday, or satisfy personal interests.

Hand-Picked Hotels

We have selected hotels with different styles and for different budgets. Let us know your preferences and we will help you find the right one.

Tour Price:

• The price is based on a private tour for 2 people during the low season.
• The price varies based on program, travel date, number of people.
• We could also price a tour including both 4-star and 5-star hotels for you.
• We accept payments in multiple currencies (GBP, AUD, CAD, EUR...).

Price Includes:

• Privately-driven air-conditioned vehicle with ample space (except where stated)
• English-speaking local guide for the sightseeing
• Attraction tickets and itinerary activities
• Accommodation for all nights
• Flights/trains between itinerary cities
• Hotel breakfasts and itinerary lunches/dinners
• 24/7 helpline while touring
• Governmental taxes

Price Excludes:

• International flights not mentioned in the itinerary
• Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
• Overweight luggage more than 20 kg per person
• Visa fee, if applicable
• Tips for guides and drivers
• Personal expenses

Tour code: ah-ea-1

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China group tours return to japan but 'explosive spending' unlikely.

By Maki Shiraki, Rocky Swift and Irene Wang

TOKYO (Reuters) -Chinese group tours are back in Japan but anyone banking on them arriving in droves and splashing around cash like they did before the pandemic is likely to be disappointed.

An ANA Holdings flight on Wednesday evening brought in the first package-tour visitors from Beijing since China lifted its pandemic-era restrictions on the trips to Japan and other key markets including the United States.

But hopes the return of packaged tours will herald big returns for department stores, hotels and restaurants in Japan are clashing with a Chinese economy struggling to post significant growth and Japan's controversial plans to release treated wastewater from the wrecked Fukushima nuclear plant into the sea.

"Chinese consumer sentiment is cooler than ever, and the desire to save is increasing," said Sony Financial Group economist Takayuki Miyajima.

Isetan Mitsukoshi is expecting less "explosive buying" at its department stores now that many high-end brands are available within China, a spokesperson said.

Sightseeing operator Hato Bus also said it was restarting Chinese-language tours in September, but with smaller vehicles.

Inbound tourism has become increasingly important to Japan's economy, helping drive blistering 6% annualised growth in the second quarter.

Before the pandemic, mainland Chinese - who largely prefer to travel abroad in tour groups - accounted for the biggest number of tourists to Japan. They also spent the most.

But since Japan eased its own pandemic border controls late last year, the number of Chinese tourists has only recovered to about 20% of 2019 levels, partly because of China's delay in adding Japan to a list of approved nations for tour groups.

China, meanwhile, opposes Japan's plan to release the Fukushima wastewater starting on Thursday, and many Chinese have taken to social media to express their alarm about the safety of Japanese seafood and produce.

How this will affect tourism, however, remains unclear. Sun Lei, one of the organisers of the tour that arrived at Tokyo's Haneda airport on Wednesday, said the tour took less than 24 hours to fill. "They're all very thrilled," she said of the group of more than a dozen.

Beijing teenager Xu Zichang, on his fifth trip to Japan, said he was really keen on sampling new food.

"I'm most looking forward to some fresh food," he said. "I like Japan very much."

EXPERIENCES NOT HAULS

The weaker yen has sparked a rebound in U.S. and European tourists that is exceeding pre-pandemic levels, but with their own currency also weaker, the exchange rate doesn't appear to be a drawcard for Chinese tourists. Neither is the frenzied shopping that was their hallmark, said CLSA Japan strategist Nicholas Smith.

"There have been changes over the last few years to their ability to buy Japanese products in China, so they don't actually have to travel to do it," he added, referring to the proliferation of shops selling these goods in the mainland.

Some Japanese retailers say the Chinese tourists who do visit appear to be more discerning.

Komehyo, a major retailer of second-hand luxury goods, said sales to Chinese visitors have been on the upswing since April, and Isetan Mitsukoshi is seeing a shift from mass cosmetics purchases toward experience-based services.

"Now they are more likely to sit down for a skin consultation and then buy products tailored to their needs," the spokesperson said.

Japan Tourism Agency Commissioner Ichiro Takahashi told reporters on Tuesday that Chinese group tourism is expected to gain momentum through the September-October autumn months.

A severe labour crunch, however, may hamstring Japan's ability to get the most out of this rebound. More than three-quarters of restaurants and hotels reported a shortage of temporary workers in April, according to the most recent survey by researcher Teikoku Databank.

"Even if they want to accept Chinese group tourists, they may not be able to," said Yayoi Sakanaka, a senior economist at Mizuho Research & Technologies.

(Reporting by Maki Shiraki, Rocky Swift and Irene Wang in Tokyo and Sophie Yu in Shanghai; editing by Miral Fahmy)

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China Tours

Laurus Travel’s China tours feature outstanding guides, personalized service, small group size, quality cuisine and luxury accommodations. Whether you are a senior looking for an escorted tour of China or a family with children planning a private China vacation, you can count on us for an incredible experience. A China tour with Laurus Travel is an active cultural experience filled with fun and learning, delivered by a team of caring, competent and knowledgeable professionals. Rated A+ by the BBB, Laurus Travel has been recommended in every edition of Frommer’s China. Read what our customers have to say about Laurus Travel ; you will be impressed.

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China Tours Q&A

What is the best way to travel around china.

The best way to travel around China is by high-speed rail. China is a large country with an area over 9.6 million square kilometres. This land area means no country in the world is larger than China except Russia and Canada. The size of China makes it necessary for the country to have a mode of transportation that is fast, comfortable, punctual, affordable and also environmentally friendly for the public to move around. The high-speed rail network fits the bill.  People who visit China for the first time are always surprised by China’s extensive super-modern high-speed rail system. China owns the largest high-speed rail system in the world with an operating network in excess of 40,000 kilometres. This stands over three times the high-speed rail distance in the entire European Union. Today, almost every major Chinese tourist city is accessible via high-speed train.

Which tour agency or company is best for China?

Each tour company has its own strengths and weaknesses. No tour agency, whether they focus on China or any other destination, can be the right choice for every consumer. In the case of Laurus Travel, we are a boutique tour operator offering mid-level to luxury tours in a small group environment. We compete on value, not primarily on price. Laurus Travel is not a good fit for independent-minded travellers or consumers with a very tight budget. The majority of our guests are retired white-collar professionals including many university professors, physicians, attorneys, accountants and engineers.

Which Laurus Travel China tour should I choose?

If you have never been to China, your decision in choosing a China tour should be primarily based on your budget and time available. It simply doesn’t happen with us that you somehow ended up going on a wrong tour. Our China tours are all culture and history oriented with a strong emphasis on guide service and good food, among other things. If you are fit, friendly and eager to learn, you will have a great time travelling with Laurus Travel.

How fit should I be?

Our China tours are active and involve much walking and stair climbing. If you are unable to walk 5km/3mi a day or require assistance with your luggage, you will find our China tours too challenging.

What’s the best time to visit China?

Weather-wise and in general, the best time would be spring (March, April, May) and autumn (September, October, November). Teachers and families with school-age children often travel China in summer out of necessity. Anyone travelling to China in July and August should be prepared for high heat and humidity; however, in some parts of China, such as Tibet, Inner Mongolia and Xinjiang, summer is the most pleasant season.

What are the public holidays to avoid?

The most important public holiday in China is the Lunar New Year commonly known as Spring Festival . It’s the Chinese equivalent of Christmas holiday in the West. This is a time when every Chinese seems to be on the move. Airports and train stations are packed while tour guides, drivers and hotel employees all prefer to be home with their loved ones. This holiday is based on Chinese lunar calendar and can fall in January or February on Gregorian calendar. This holiday generally lasts for two weeks.

The Qingming Festival (tomb sweeping holiday, a time to pay tribute to ancestors) in April is combined with a weekend. Air and train tickets are always in short supply during this time.

May Day holiday used to be a week-long holiday, coinciding with Japan’s Golden Week. But today it’s just a long weekend. That said, major tourist sites do get crowded during this holiday.

Duanwu became a statutory holiday in 2008, although as a traditional holiday it has been around for well over two millennia. Duanwu Festival, which is celebrated according to Chinese lunar calendar, can fall in May or June.

The Mid-autumn Festival (usually falling in middle or late September) is another major public holiday. It is similar to Thanksgiving in North America in spirit, but instead of thanking the Almighty, Chinese families would gather for a dinner feast moon watching.

The National Day holiday (October 1-5) is definitely one to avoid if possible. This is the holiday that sees nerve-wracking overcrowding almost anywhere you want to visit.

Should I get Chinese currency before arrival?

Buying Chinese currency outside China is not recommended. The best exchange rate is always in China. Obtaining Chinese money through a local bank at the airport is advised. Or, you can use a bank card (credit card works also but the associated cost is much higher) issued in your own country to withdraw local cash from ATM terminals on arrival. As far as exchange rate goes, the best choice is a local bank . Automated teller machines come second. Stay away from independent currency dealers if possible.

What vaccination or inoculation certificates should I bring?

If you book a tour with us, we’ll give the latest information upon receipt of your deposit. At the moment, we are not aware of any such requirements other than those related to COVID-19. That said, we strongly recommend that you keep your hepatitis vaccination updated. You may also want to check out the website(s) maintained by your national health authorities or speak to your family physician for more advice.

How do I apply for my China visa?

Guests taking our China tours can count on us for assistance with their China visa application. The cost varies depending on your nationality. Please visit https://laurustravel.com/general-information/visa/ for details.

China tours – Victoria Harbour, Hong Kong

Reviews on Laurus Travel China Tours

You can find many consumer reviews on Laurus Travel and our China tours on the Internet including on TripAdvisor. One thing you should keep in mind, though, when searching for consumer reviews on Laurus Travel is that the majority of our guests are seniors who are less active in the domain of social media. On this front, we are at a disadvantage compared with our peers peddling cheaper tours to a younger audience.

[ read more ]

• China resumes group tours to more destinations including US, Japan

Chinese tourists pose for a group photo at Merlion Park in Singapore on Feb. 7, 2023. [Photo/Xinhua]

• China on Thursday announced the resumption of group tours to dozens of more overseas destinations, including Japan, Britain, the United States and Australia.

Starting Aug. 10, travel agencies and online tourism service providers in China can resume offering group tours to a longer list of countries and regions, according to a circular from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

Relevant airline ticket and hotel booking services will also be resumed.

Since China previously initiated a pilot program to revive travel agencies' outbound group travel services, "the operations of the outbound tourism market have been stable and orderly, playing a positive role in promoting tourism exchanges and cooperation," the circular noted.

China's outbound group travel market was halted in early 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As the country has optimized its epidemic response, so measures have been taken to lift restrictions on Chinese people's overseas trips and promote cross-border personnel exchanges.

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Xinhua | May 15, 2024

An aerial drone photo taken on April 13, 2024 shows the Silver Shadow cruise ship, operated by the Royal Caribbean Group, docking at Tianjin International Cruise Home Port in north China's Tianjin Municipality. (Xinhua)

China on Wednesday enforced a policy allowing visa-free entry of foreign tourist groups aboard cruise ships via all cruise ship ports along the country's coastline.

Tourist groups each consisting of two foreigners or more, and organized or received by Chinese travel agencies, can enter China visa free on board cruise ships via the cruise ports in 13 Chinese cities, including Shanghai, Tianjin, Guangzhou, Sanya, and others, according to the National Immigration Administration (NIA).

The tourists can stay in China for no longer than 15 days. While in China, they can visit coastal provinces, municipalities and autonomous regions as well as Beijing, according to an NIA statement.

Additionally, the NIA announced that seven cruise ports, namely Dalian, Lianyungang, Wenzhou, Zhoushan, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Beihai, have been designated as visa-free transit ports for nationals from 54 countries.

This move facilitates the transit and departure of foreign travelers from these ports via cruise ships under China's visa-free transit policy, the statement noted.

To make cruise entry and exit procedures more convenient, the NIA has introduced a range of measures focusing on facilitating clearance for foreign cruise passengers, crew landing, and cruise maintenance, among other services, according to Mao Xu, a senior NIA official.

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Ukraine war latest: Russia's troops 'partially pushed back' from key town, Ukraine claims - as Putin's offensive 'appears to slow'

The Ukrainian president has cancelled visits to Spain and Portugal after Moscow's forces began a new offensive in the northeast of the country. Submit your question on the war for our experts to answer in the box below.

Wednesday 15 May 2024 21:46, UK

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• Ukraine 'partially pushes back' Russian troops from Kharkiv town
• Russian offensive in Ukraine 'going to plan', Putin says
• Analysts say Russian offensive 'appears to have slowed'
• Situation there 'extremely difficult'
• Zelenskyy postpones all foreign visits due to 'situation in Kharkiv'
• US announces $2bn in extra aid for Ukraine
• Russia downs missiles launched at Crimea
• Analysis:  Putin's 'baffling' reshuffle explained
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Vladimir Putin has landed in Beijing for a two-day state visit to China, in what marks a significant show of unity between the two allies.

He was greeted by Chinese officials as he stepped off the plane in the early hours of the morning local time.

Mr Putin and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping are not expected to announce any major deals during his visit - but the trip is a sign of the two countries' deepening "no limits" partnership.

Ahead of the visit, the Kremlin said Mr Putin and Mr Xi will "have a detailed discussion on the entire range of issues related to the comprehensive partnership and strategic cooperation and determine the new directions for further development of cooperation between Russia and China".

We're pausing our live coverage for the day - thanks for following along.

We'll mark any major moments in the blog in the meantime, and will resume our rolling updates tomorrow. 

 By Ivor Bennett , Moscow correspondent 

You've heard of the transatlantic Special Relationship. 

This is the "no limits" partnership - a term coined when Vladimir Putin visited Beijing in February 2022.

It was just days before he ordered the full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

A lot's changed for Russia since then, of course. It’s now an international pariah. One thing that hasn’t changed, though, is China’s support.

Why? For one, Presidents Xi and Putin share a similar outlook. Both oppose external "interference" in domestic affairs, and long for a "multipolar" world.

There are economic benefits for both, too. But this is not an equal partnership. The power lies with Beijing.

"Because of the war, Russia is in desperate need of any kind of partnership", said Alexandra Prokopenko, a Berlin-based fellow at the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center, adding that Beijing had provided "a real lifeline" for Moscow.

"China is not only a market for Russian oil and gas, which is the major source of the currency for the Russian budget, but also China’s become a very important source of imports to Russia," she said.

Putin won't like being the junior partner, but it’s a role he’s clearly willing to accept, given the benefits.

Last year, trade between the two nations soared to $240 billion - an increase of more than 25%.

Cheap energy flows one way; cars and telephones come back. But the West fears that's not all Russia’s importing.

The US and others believe Chinese products and dual-use goods, like machine tools and microelectronics, are also fuelling the Kremlin's war machine, by filling critical gaps in its military-industrial.

China denies supplying any actual weaponry, and maintains a neutral stance on Ukraine.

But the assertions have done little to dampen suspicions with US secretary of state Antony Blinken reiterating his "deep concern" today.

Putin's entourage might also raise eyebrows. He’ll be accompanied by his new defence minister, Andrei Belousov, with Putin widely expected to push for more support for Russia's militarised economy.

But despite the "no limits" characterisation of the relationship, analysts say it does have boundaries.

"China knows red lines," Prokopenko said, referring to Washington’s concerns over the extent of Beijing's support.

In her view, the partnership between Xi and Putin should be viewed "as part of a big, big game between the US and China".

In that sense, then, this visit is likely to be more symbolic than anything else. It's the first foreign trip of Putin's new presidential term and signals his priorities.

But in terms of the optics - two strongmen leaders defying Western pressure - one of them is clearly stronger than the other.

These images show Vladimir Putin chairing a security council meeting. 

Former defence minister and new secretary of the council Sergei Shoigu was in attendance - pictured in the first image next to chief of the general staff Valery Gerasimov.

Earlier today, Volodymyr Zelenskyy postponed all foreign trips due to the situation in the Kharviv region.

Russia has also claimed to have taken three more settlements in the country - two of which are in the Kharkiv region.

The offensive by Moscow started at the end of last week, and today our military analyst Michael Clarke says Russia has already achieved some of what it intended to do. 

He says by targeting the Kharkiv region Moscow's main goal is to "draw Ukrianian forces from elsewhere". 

"The Russians are trying to stretch the Ukrainian forces all the way round the front.

"If the Russians get to the village of Lyptsi then they can put Kharkiv under artillery barrage, because it is within range of normal artillery weapons.

"More importantly, the village of Vovchansk, may mark the beginning of a bigger offensive that could go southwards or maybe eastwards to link up with other forces."

Despite fierce fighting in Vovchansk, Clarke says the Ukrainians have slowed Russian advances down, by redirecting their best units from the south.

"Parts of their best brigades have been sent north to stem the tide," he says.

"But the Russians have already achieved what they wanted, which is to draw off some of the best troops and equipment which are fighting in Chavis Yar down in the south, which really mattered to the Ukrainians."

Watch Clarke's full analysis here:

Finland will change its legislation to allow thousands of reservists to patrol the country's border with Russia, should there be a sudden wave of migrants. 

"With the changed security situation, we need to complement existing methods with new ways to maintain border security," defence minister Antti Hakkanen said in a statement.

Finland, which joined NATO in April last year, has accused Moscow of weaponising migration against the Nordic nation, which the Kremlin denies. 

Finland shut its 1,340km-long border with Russia late last year amid a growing number of arrivals from countries such as Syria and Somalia via Russia.

Away from Kharkiv, and Ukraine has denied Russian claims of progress in the Zaporizhzhia region. 

The Ukrainian military dismissed reports that Moscow's forces had taken control of the village of Robotyne in the southern part of the region. 

"This information is not true," military spokesman Dmytro Pletenchuk was quoted by Ukrinform agency as saying.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy has condemned the assassination attempt on Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico. 

Russia's offensive in northern Kharkiv has been the focus of much of the reporting on the war in Ukraine over recent days.

Sky News military analyst Michael Clarke has said the aim of Moscow is to draw Ukraine's forces to that area from the south, thus stretching the country's military resources.

And the latest analysis from US thinktank the Institute for the Study of War suggests that the pace of the offensive "appears to have slowed over the past 24 hours".

The group's experts said the pattern of Russian offensive activity in the area was consistent with assessments that Vladimir Putin's forces are prioritising the creation of a "buffer zone" in the international border area over a deeper penetration of Kharkiv Oblast.

It said several Ukrainian military officials reported yesterday that they believed the situation in Kharkiv Oblast was slowly stabilising.

"Drone footage purportedly from Vovchansk shows Russian foot mobile infantry operating within the settlement in small squad-sized assault groups, consistent with Ukrainian reports," the analysis added.

Two people have been killed after a Russian air attack on infrastructure in the Ukrainian city of Dnipro, the regional governor has said.

Serhiy Lysak said on  Telegram that there were a number of people who had been injured, but gave no other details.

Dnipro is Ukraine's fourth-largest city, it sits on the Dnipro River  and is around 300 miles from Kyiv.

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An 8-Day Cycling Adventure From Tokyo to Kyoto

By Tom Vanderbilt

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

I pulled into the tiny hamlet of Hirase, in Japan ’s Gifu prefecture, at the peak of the day’s heat. I’d just climbed several thousand feet through Hakusan National Park, on a twisting, waterfall-lined road, before eventually descending into the shimmering fantasy landscape of Shirakawa-go, an almost Tolkien-esque small village—and UNESCO heritage site —comprised of centuries-old thatched, peaked-roof farmhouses in the gassho-zukuri style. Replenishing myself with a black-sesame ice cream cone, I made the last push towards my destination. My cycling computer eventually told me “destination reached,” but all I could see was a succession of closed businesses lining a small street. Seeking shade, I flopped against a security gate.

Gearing up to text the ride leader that I was lost, I suddenly saw, in the distance, two cyclists from my group. One, a Dane living in London and a veteran of the trip, escorted me precisely 100 feet to the entrance of a traditional house, half hidden from the street by trees. This was Tosuke-no-yu Fujiya , a traditional ryokan with hot springs; a lacquered-wood and shoji -screen retreat that resists the march of time (and the all-seeing eye of Google Maps.) We were too early for check-in, so we made our way, clad in cycling kit, towards the nearby Shō River. Scrambling barefoot across rocks, we plunged into the clear, bracing mountain water.

I have often found, on a trip, that it is not the perfectly scripted moment that endures in the memory, but that juncture where something has gone awry. Something that might require a touch of fortitude, of inventiveness—of halting conversation with locals—to resolve. Something that momentarily takes us out of our comfort zone. “Only through shadows can we see the beauty of a lighted room,” writes Junichiro Tanizaki in his classic In Praise of Shadows . Something of that spirit exists in RAID Cycling , the outfitter with which I have booked an eight-day expedition, by bike, from Tokyo to Kyoto . “I like it a little more rough around the edges,” as Brad Sauber, RAID’s founder and a longtime participant in the world of luxury bike trips, describes the ride. “I like to bring people to really remote areas—maybe there aren’t five-star hotels. Or maybe some might be, but I don’t want five nights of five-star hotels.”

Biking across the Wagatani Suspension Bridge in the Ishikawa Prefecture

Two decades ago, Sauber was in Japan, on his honeymoon , when inspiration struck, through the window of the Shinkansen. “I remember seeing these amazing little roads, with hardly any traffic,” he says. “I thought, there’s gotta be a way to ride a bike here.” Working at the time for Rapha Travel, the adventure division of the noted clothing brand, he spent 15 days driving the country’s backroads, stitching together a pioneering long-distance cycling route, stumbling upon little-known hotels like the ryokan in Hirase. Even keen cyclists in Japan thought the idea of a multi-day trip from Tokyo to Kyoto “was crazy,” he says. Undaunted, he pushed forward, launching the trip in 2015. Just finding willing hotels was a challenge. “The concept of showing up with 15 foreigners on bikes, with four or five vehicles, just completely blew their minds,” he says.

Sauber launched RAID after Rapha closed its travel division in 2018. His new Japan trips were just up and running when the pandemic struck, forcing a three-year suspension. I am on only the second outing after the country’s reopening, joined by some 16 other cyclists, as well as RAID’s four-person Japanese crew, and Sauber himself. After a night in Tokyo’s Shibuya neighborhood, we take a train to Sumiecho, a suburban area in Tokyo where, in one of the country’s pristine public restrooms—and before its bemused attendant—we change into our cycling kit.

From here, we head into the mountains of Higashi-Ōme. A few things become apparent immediately. One, Japanese roads are top notch. Cyclists typically warn those behind them of the presence of potholes, or random debris in the road; our group had little to do. The one piece of trash I saw in the road stood out for its shocking indelicacy. Second, Japanese drivers are polite—not as polite as Japanese shopkeepers, but generally solicitous of cyclists (still, I recommend using a taillight like Garmin’s Varia , which warns of cars approaching from behind—useful in the country’s many dim tunnels). Third, on 90-degree-plus days, Japanese vending machines—which one finds in the most unexpected places—are your friend.

Sarah James

Caitlin Morton

Jahnavi Bhatt

Alex Erdekian

The days went by in a flurry of impressions, gleaned over the handlebars. There was the babble of snow monkeys in the trees near Kofu (a town that grows those extravagantly expensive fruits that are given as gifts). There were elegantly spired, tightly-packed Buddhist cemeteries in the midst of almost iridescent green rice paddies. There were mountain peaks densely packed with cypress and marked by absolute stillness, save for the piercing cries of Japanese Golden Eagles. There were restorative bowls of soba noodles at family-run roadside restaurants, elaborate kaiseki meals eaten wearing summer yukata robes, and Japanese snacks at the RAID rest stops. There were “shortcuts” down eerily abandoned country roads. There were memorable stays in new-to-me cities like Takayama (dubbed “mini-Kyoto,” without the crowds), where, in the sleek Hotel Wood , you find yourself immersed in the onsen with the same people you’ve been riding with, except you’re all now naked.

But there’s little room for shame on this trip: On another night, in the town of Kaga, we find ourselves in a small karaoke bar called Swing Club, singing Bon Jovi full-throat. Sauber discovered the place years ago and has been returning ever since. When we walk in, swelling the bar’s population, the septuagenarian proprietress—a former classical dancer in the Bon Odori tradition, wearing a leopard-print blouse—beams at him warmly. He doesn’t recall her name. “I have these experiences all over the world,” he tells me. “It’s not about names. It’s about interactions.”

The 5th-century Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine in Takayama

So beguiling is this whole trip that several guests, joined by their partners, would be sticking around to do RAID’s other Japan itinerary, a less strenuous trip through the Southern Islands. Sauber says that in general, while some cycling experience is suggested, it’s also a chance for participants—typically already thrust out of their comfort zone by being in Japan—to expand their sense of self. Among the clients on that trip, he notes, is a 70-year-old woman, bringing her e-bike. “She’s super adventurous, she’s traveled all over,” he says. “RAID is about pushing people’s limits, stretching that elastic—creating an experience that actually challenges people.”

RAID Cycling leads trips in countries across the globe, including Japan. Rates for the 8-day Tokyo to Kyoto trip start at $6800, which includes lodging, transport and support during the trip, and all meals.

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