Country Walkers Launches New Asia-Pacific Trips

Like all Country Walkers adventures, the three new trips include the many elements that have recognized the Waterbury, Vermont-based outfitter as one of the top tour operators for 35 years. Like Country Walkers' other journeys, these elements include well-crafted itineraries, exceptional accommodations, local culinary specialties, outstanding veteran guides, and healthful touring at an ideal pace through scenes of natural beauty and cultural wonder with enjoyment assured for all.

Head East with Country Walkers to enjoy:

New Zealand: The South Island - The South Island of New Zealand is a land of contrasts, with golden curving castaway beaches, lush manuka rainforest, snowy summits, rolling hills, windswept coastal headlands, and subtropical forests alive with native birds. Travelers on this 9-day/8-night guided walking adventure proceed at a moderate pace across sections of the Abel Tasman Coast Track and follow the paths of Maori settlers who sought precious pounamu-green nephrite jade amid rushing gorges and emerald valleys. Three departures, February 16, 2015, March 16, 2015 and November 9, 2015; $5,998 per person, double occupancy. This trip is also available as a private departure.

Japan: Kyoto, Nara & The Kumano Kodo - This distinctive 8-day/7-night adventure traverses the Land of the Rising Sun with immersion in natural beauty and ancient and sophisticated culture. Hike at an easy pace through the cypress forests of the Kii Peninsula, pause for a quiet moment in the Todai-ji Temple, revel in the neon nightscapes of Osaka, and witness the splendor of moats, lush gardens and painted ceilings at Nijo Castle in Kyoto. The ancient pilgrimage route of the Kumano Kodo UNESCO World Heritage site passes jizo bodhisattva statues, kami shrines, and cha-ya tea houses, while enjoying meals comprised of organic, local ingredients with the owners of a family-run inn reveal the secrets of rice cultivation and so much more. Two departures reserved for members of Country Walker's Encore loyalty program, September 28 and October 5, 2015; $6,798 per person, double occupancy. This itinerary is also available for Private vacations.

China Family: Beijing, The Great Wall & Southern Provinces - Geared for enjoyment by every generation, this easy-to-moderately paced, guided family adventure explores China's rich and raucous beauty, from the heart of the Forbidden City to remote Sichuan villages. The active, all-ages itinerary plays out over 10-days/9-nights with something for everyone, from traditional Peking duck dinner and morning tai chi in the gardens of a Taoist temple to a bamboo raft trip on the Li River and hands-on yo-yo lessons. Walk a remote stretch of the Great Wall with a local expert on history and culture, take in private calligraphy and kung fu lessons, enjoy the spectacle of traditional Sichuan opera, and many more family-friendly activities throughout. Departure dates available on request' adults and teens from $4,398 per person, double occupancy; children (11 and under) from $3,298 per person, double occupancy; minimum age 6 years old.

For more information or to make reservations for these and other Country Walkers adventures, please contact (800) 464-9255, or visit www.countrywalkers.com