Over the past 70 years, no country has had a greater impact on Australia than Japan. Our shipments of iron ore and coal to Japan after the war helped fuel the post-war development of both countries. As Japan developed, the mineral exports were joined by grain, cotton, sugar, beef and other agricultural produce.

Japan is still Australia's biggest agricultural export destination. It is our second biggest wheat market, and by far our biggest beef market. It is also right near the top for sugar, cotton and barley.

And farming in Japan is quite unique. Most of the farms are small, but the farmers are well organised into regional and national co-operatives with a lot of marketing and political influence. This structure is slowly changing and new farming entrepeneurs are emerging along with opportunities for innovative Australian exporters.

Our 2010 tour will cover the best farming regions and new technology and will take you to some of the unspoilt, authentic areas while not missing out on the ‘must-see’ sights and experiences — like Tokyo, Mount Fuji, Kyoto,
Hiroshima and the incredible Shinkansen bullet train. The best time to visit Japan is in the spring, when the magnificent cherry blossoms are on display. And that is exactly when we will be there.

We have been able to confirm arrangements about many of our planned farm and general interest visits, but the itinerary is subject to fine-tuning right up until departure.
If you would like to head over before the main group arrives, or stay on to do your own thing, we will do our best to accommodate you. And if you have the chance to book a flight with frequent flyer points, go for your life, we will deduct the flight cost from your tour price. We can also help you arrange any intended ‘add-ons’ to ensure they not only mesh nicely with the main tour — they are offered at very competitive prices.

Itinerary and bookings
The cost of the 13 day tour will include all airfares, first class accommodation, guides and most meals. Final costings will be available in December, 2009.
In the meantime, please express your interest in the tour and please don’t hesitate to call (07 4659 3555) with any questions you might have.

Best regards, Lloyd and Catherine O’Connell, Dave Dowling



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