Avanti Introduces New FIT Destinations, Itineraries in Japan

Avanti Destinations, a wholesale tour operator, has added two new FIT destinations to its Japan lineup: Shizuoka and Tohuku. 

The information about these regions, as well as many other Japanese cities to visit, is included in a 46-page e-brochure, “Japan: A World Apart,” that Avanti has published for travel advisors. The digital pamphlet also includes selling tips and customizable vacation details. 

“Japan is our number one selling country in Asia,” said Avanti CEO Paul Barry. “Most of our bookings are focused on Tokyo and Kyoto, so the objective of this e-brochure is to show travel advisors how many other fascinating places and experiences the country offers.” 

Since Avanti sells through travel advisors, not directly to customers, the company specializes in helping advisors customize itineraries. The Japan e-brochure is designed both to educate advisors and for advisors to pass along to clients so they can have a broader understanding of what they can experience in Japan and all the country has to offer, especially in cities that are less well-known to travelers. 

This online packet includes information about the four seasons in Japan, different experiences in each region, and Japan’s train system, as well as videos and resources from the Japan National Tourism Organization, such as maps and guides. 

“Even in the high seasons of sakura in the spring when the cherry trees are in full bloom and the fall when trees change to vivid colors, it is possible to find many places with far fewer tourists, where your FIT clients can have a wide choice of authentic encounters with the many facets of Japan’s culture,” Barry said. “These bookable experiences include having a private dinner with a geisha, hot spring (onsen)-hopping in Kinosaki, visiting the snow monkeys in Yudanaka, hiking along the shrine-dotted Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route, or trying your hand at traditional crafts in Kanazawa. Even in Toyko we suggest places and experiences that most travelers miss.” 

Other experiences offered by Avanti include a guided snorkeling tour in Okinawa, sushi-making in Tokyo, and a street food culture tour in Osaka.