It’s no secret that many Singaporean travellers absolutely adore Japan and its fantastic holiday destinations. From the bustling metropolis of Tokyo to the tranquil hills of Kyoto, many Japan-lovers might think that they’ve seen everything the country has to offer.
That is, until now. The Japan National Tourism Organisation (JNTO) Singapore Office has announced two fully sponsored and guided tours of some of Japan’s must-see hidden gems and destinations will be up for grabs. Sponsored by JAPAN by Japan (JbyJ), these trips will give the lucky travellers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to experience the lesser-known wonders of the beautiful country.
What tours can I go on?
These tours will have a theme: celebrating a loved one’s birthday in Japan. The tour itineraries will be devised around this theme by the participants in tandem with representatives of JbyJ. JbyJ will cover all expenses that are decided to be part of the itinerary, including air tickets, accommodation, transport, and food & beverage.
The JNTO Singapore Office is working with its trusted partners, Hokkaido Airports Co. Ltd, Hiroshima Tourism Association, and San’in Tourism Organisation, to give these tours of Japan a level of authenticity that could only be achieved by local experts.
Tour 1: A Family Trip to Hokkaido in the North
The first tour, held from 3 to 8 September 2023, is designed for a family of up to four (with up to 2 children of age 11 and above). The tour is set right in the middle of the Singapore school holidays, the perfect time for a family to enjoy a lovely holiday together.
Participants will immerse themselves in Hokkaido’s lush, natural paradise, visiting highly recommended locations like Kushiro, Furano, Sapporo, and Chitose. No matter what the participants choose to do on their visit, the iconic northern island is a perfect destination for a family to celebrate their loved ones.
Tour 2: A Cultural Experience Like No Other in Hiroshima and San’in
The second tour is set for November 2023, this time for a lucky couple. They get to travel to Southwestern Japan to visit the beautiful and historic valleys of Hiroshima and San’in. From enjoying intimate activities like creating unique rings at one of Japan’s most sacred places, Izumo, to taking in the stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea, this tour will allow participants to experience Japan’s deep cultural roots.
Other locations featured on this tour are Iwami-Ginzan, Onomichi, and Fukuyama. More details will be revealed in due time, but as of now, we know enough to confirm that this tour will be an unforgettable experience for a celebrating couple.
How Can I Apply?
These tours are only open to residents of Singapore, and each participating group must have at least one Singapore Citizen. Participants must also agree to have their pictures and videos taken to be used for social media, advertisements, and other promotional material.
If your group fits these criteria, hooray! You’re welcome to apply.
The application period for these tours lasts from 2 to 18 June 2023.
Here’s the step-by-step process:
- If you haven’t already, you’ll need to register as a member of JbyJ.
- Once you’ve done that, make a 3-minute video showing why JbyJ should sponsor a trip to Japan for you and your loved ones!
- Be sure to mention who you wish to celebrate on the trip, why you believe Japan is the best destination to do so, and what you and your loved ones would want to do on the trip.
- Once you’ve submitted the video, all you’ll need to do is fill out the application form for the tour you wish to go on. The forms for Hokkaido and Hiroshima/San’in can be found on the JAPAN by Japan website.
Once the forms have been submitted, shortlisted candidates will be contacted via the [email protected] email for an online/in-person interview for the final selection! And If you’re one of the lucky ones selected, you’ll be able to go ahead and plan your itinerary with JbyJ as you prepare for that memorable trip to Japan!
We strongly advise acquiring travel insurance from your preferred insurance company, and do ensure your passport has at least six months of validity before your trip.
For more information, you can visit their Campaign Page on the JAPAN by Japan website.
Visuals courtesy of Hiroshima Tourism Association.
