Japan: Discovery Tour

Offering a unique window into the landscape, waters, history and culture of Japan, this premier test trip will be a unique and exclusive opportunity to experience rowing and culture in an exotic destination. Attendance is by invitation only. 

It is the longest trip that Rowing The World has ever offered, spanning two full weeks. As a test tour, we want to maximize the diversity of rowing locations and also experience thoroughly some of the most iconic sites and activities that Japan has to offer. This trip is also the most expensive we have ever offered and not simply due to the duration. Another of our trips matches it on a per day rate, but most are lower. It will be the most luxurious trip we have ever run, with an extensive team of guides and translators every day, along with a large number of rowing guides in each location. Many of the hotels are high end luxury hotels or boutique hotels with distinctive charm. The food will be spectacular, although quite a few meals are not included in the price in order to give you maximum flexibility. Transportation by private coach or bullet train is included, as we move amongst the top highlights of central Japan.  

We believe that this is the first commercial rowing tour to take place in Japan. In 2011, the World Rowing Tour, run by an enthusiastic group of volunteers, circumnavigated Lake Biwa. Most Japanese rowers have no idea that rowing travel exists. Extensive work has taken place to research potential locations, find local rowing partners, and lay the foundation of how a rowing tour works. We understand that the excitement is building among Japanese rowers. Local tourism groups are supportive as we introduce a new type of adventure travel, including to regions which are in the shadow of famous sites, yet have much to offer the curious traveller and rower. We may even make the news!  

This trip has personal significance for Ruth. We are making a pilgrimage to Yokohama, where her great-grandfather is buried. Her grandfather was born here and was a rower! In a way, Ruth will be rowing into family on this trip, as described in her blog post. https://thethoughtfulrower.com/rowing-into-family-in-japan/  

Trip Details

Included