8 Days Southern Japan Tour | Autumn

  • From Osaka To Osaka
  • Updated
Southern Japan Tour | Autumn
Hiroshima | A-Bomb Dome
Southern Japan Tour | Autumn
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
Southern Japan Tour | Autumn
Hiroshima | Miyajima
Southern Japan Tour | Autumn
Hiroshima | Itsukushima Shrine
Southern Japan Tour | Autumn
Hyogo | Himeji Castle
Southern Japan Tour | Autumn
Miyazaki | Takachiho Gorge
Southern Japan Tour | Autumn
Kagawa | Ritsurin Park
Southern Japan Tour | Autumn
Tokushima | Awaodori Kaikan
Southern Japan Tour | Autumn
Osaka | Dotonbori
Southern Japan Tour | Autumn
Hiroshimayaki
Southern Japan Tour | Autumn
Hot Spring

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Tour Descriptions

Ditch the ordinary and join us on Southern Japan Tour through Kyushu and Shikoku, the scenic islands of Japan filled with mystery and adventure. Start your vacation in Osaka and travel through the southern islands while seeing the best temples, nature spots, and castles. A perfect trip for someone who wants to see more than just Tokyo and Kyoto, our Southern Japan Tour is geared for a great time.
Itinerary

Osaka | Arrive in Japan & Check-in Hotel

10/12/2023

Vischio Kyoto Hotel By GRANVIA ( Western Style )

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  • Trip Advisor Rating
Vischio Kyoto Hotel By GRANVIA

Located in Higashikujo Nishisannocho, the Hotel Vischio Kyoto is a comfortable hotel to relax during your Japan tour featuring numerous Kyoto landmarks nearby. Higashi Honganji Temple and Sanjusangendo Temple are within walking distance, as is the convenient Kujo Station.

Near by.......
-Kyoto Tower
-Toji Temple
-Nijō Castle

View Hotel Detail

Welcome to Japan! We will have transportation services to take you to your hotel. Please refer to your tour app for more information.
Rest at the hotel and be ready to start your exciting tour tomorrow.

**INFORMATION**
From KIX Airport to downtown hotel in Osaka - about 70 mins (Bus)
From ITM Airport to downtown hotel in Osaka - about 30 mins (Bus)

Himeji | UNESCO Certified White Heron Castle

10/13/2023 Breakfast Lunch
Featured Destinations & Experiences

Rihga Royal Hotel Hiroshima ( Western Style )

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  • Trip Advisor Rating
Rihga Royal Hotel Hiroshima

Rihga Royal Hotel Hiroshima is located in the heart of Hiroshima's Downtown. The Hotel offers beautiful view of Hiroshima City. Hotel offers many modern facilities and services like the gym, hot springs, and spa (these are extra charges). Many famous sight see spots are within walking distance such as Hiroshima Castle, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, and Atomic Bomb Dome.

Near by....
-Amusement district
Nagarekawa in 5 mins by car
Hondori Shopping Area in 5 mins by walk

-Museum
Mazda Museum in 10 mins by car
Peace Park Museum in 10 mins by walk

View Hotel Detail

[ Hyogo Prefecture ] Himeji Castle | Koko-en | Check into the hotel

Today, we will travel west to the Himeji prefecture to visit the magnificent Himeji Castle. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993, it is considered one of Japan’s three premier castle. Nicknamed the White Heron Castle due to the castle’s brilliant white walls, the castle maintains almost all of its original structures since its construction in the early 1600’s. After overcoming war, natural disasters, and going through restorative work, enjoy exploring around the stunning castle grounds.

In Hiroshima, Okonomiyaki (Japanese style savory pancakes) has been a popular dish since before the World War. We will serve you this local favorite for today's dinner.


Hiroshima | the Iconic Floating Shrine of Japan

10/14/2023 Breakfast Lunch

Rihga Royal Hotel Kokura ( Western Style )

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  • Trip Advisor Rating
Rihga Royal Hotel Kokura

Conveniently situated right next to JR Kokura Station in Kitakyushu, this high-rise urban hotel comprises 30 floors and ascends majestically 433 feet (132 meters) high. RIHGA Hotel Kokura is equipped with the highest-quality facilities and technology, making it an ideal venue for business and community events.

View Hotel Detail

Today, we will make our way to Hiroshima for a visit to several iconic sites. A visit to Hiroshima is not complete without a visit to the iconic A-Bomb Dome, the only surviving building from the aftermath of World War Two's atomic bombing. Surrounding the magnificent A-Bomb Dome is the Peace Memorial Park where travelers can see and read about the history of the war. The A-Bomb Dome has been preserved as a reminder of the tragedy for future generations and to symbolize its wishes for everlasting peace. Walk along the park with your tour guide to see famous attractions like Sadako’s statue and the Freedom Bell. Then we will go into the Peace Memorial Museum.

In the afternoon, our Japan Tour will head to Miyajima, an island south of Hiroshima known for its Itsukushima Shrine, or floating torii gate. During high tide, the torii gate looks as though it is floating in water, creating a unique sight, considered one of Japan’s three most beautiful sights. Miyajima is also known for its mouthwatering momiji manju (maple leaf shaped cake with red beans) and delicious oysters which you can enjoy while your tour group explores scenic island.


Nagasaki | The Marvelous Dutch-Inspired Glover Garden

10/15/2023 Breakfast Lunch

Our day begins in Nagasaki where we will be visiting several historically significant locations. The first stop will be the Nagasaki Peace Memorial Park, a symbol of peace and a testament to the horrors of war. The Peace Statue sits at the epicenter of the blast from the atomic bomb dropped on the city. The right hand points up to symbolize the atomic bomb while the left hand points towards future peace. The statue's bent right leg symbolizes meditation, while the bent left leg represents the need to stand up against war. The closed eyes are to offer prayers and respect for the victims' souls lost in the devastation blast.

From there, our vacation will head to Glover Garden which exhibits Western style mansions. After viewing these gorgeous mansions, we will continue with our foreign influences to the Oura Catholic Church. The Oura Catholic Church is Japan’s oldest standing Catholic church. We will then take a bullet train to Kumamoto and proceed to the hotel.


Takachiho | the Myths come alive at Takachiho Gorge

10/16/2023 Breakfast Dinner
or similar

Suginoi Hotel ( Japanese Style )

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  • Trip Advisor Rating
Suginoi Hotel

Suginoi Hotel offer a wide arrange of entertainment for all the guests. It has a huge outdoor pool with hot tubs, an indoor wave pool, karaoke room, bowling alley, and arcade center. For relaxation there is a coffee bar, spa, restaurants, outdoor/ indoor hot springs, shops, beauty and hair salon. This hotel is perfect for all the family to enjoy.

Near by..........
-Lake
Kagurame Lake in 25 mins by taxi

-Aquarium
Aquarium Umitamago in 20 mins by taxi

View Hotel Detail

Your Japan tour will make its way to the fabled lands of Takachiho. Our first stop of the day will be the Tunnel Station which houses the Kagura Shuzo Brewery. Sample the local sake and shop for potential gifts at this unique destination. The group will explore the Awano Iwato Shrine as we make our way through Takachiho Gorge. The gorge is said to be the hiding spot of the Sun Goddess, Amaterasu, when Susano-o, the God of Storms, was terrorizing her. The natural greenery in contrast with the volcanic rock that forms the gorge makes for a magnificent scenery.

At the Takachiho Gorge, guests can either enjoy the river ride along the water, which is often recommended if you want an up close view of the waterfalls and cliffs.


Dogo | The Real World Inspiration for "Spirited Away"

10/17/2023 Breakfast

Daiwa Roynet Hotel Matsuyama ( Western Style )

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  • Trip Advisor Rating
Daiwa Roynet Hotel Matsuyama

The Daiwa Roynet Hotel Matsuyama is the perfect getaway while exploring the city of Matsuyama. Situated around great sites and with plenty of great amenities available, find comfort and pleasure during your stay. There is complimentary wi-fi available in all rooms and public areas, so you can stay connected even while on vacation!

Near by.......
-Saka no Ue no Kumo Museum
-Matsuyama Castle
-Ninomaru Historical Garden

View Hotel Detail

Embark on a memorable journey to Yufuin, a quaint hot spring town nestled in the picturesque mountains of Kyushu. Here, you'll marvel at the serene beauty of Kinrin Lake, named after the golden scales of the mystical fish that are said to inhabit its waters. Then, the tour continuses to experience the extraordinary natural phenomenon of Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell), one of Beppu's most famous "hells", known for its cobalt blue hot spring waters.

Moving on, we’ll take a ferry over to neighboring Shikoku for a visit to Dogo Onsen, which is said to have over 3,000 years of history. The onsen is also widely known for welcoming the imperial family as guests and has a room called Yushinden on reserve exclusively for their use. Dogo Onsen's impressive wooden structure served as a model for the famous film Spirited Away.

Upon arrival to Dogo Onsen, we will walk around the old fashion hot spring shopping arcade that will bring you a somewhat retro experience. You can find a mechanical clock tower that performs every half an hour, a foot bath, and many orange related items as this area is known as the biggest producer of oranges in Japan.


Takamatsu & Tokushima | The best of Shikoku with Autumn Folidge

10/18/2023 Breakfast Lunch

Sheraton Miyako Osaka Hotel ( Western Style )

  • Expedia Rating
  • Trip Advisor Rating
Sheraton Miyako Osaka Hotel

Nearby......
(Department stores and Kabuki theater)
Kami-honmachi YUFURA Next to the Hotel
kintetsu department store Next to the Hotel
Shinkabukiza (Kami-honmachi YUFURA at 6~8F)

Airport Limousine Bus (to and from between the Hotel and Kansai International / Itami Airport )

View Hotel Detail

Our Cherry Blossom tour will begin the day by heading towards Osaka. Traveling East, our vacation brings us to an interesting Udon Making workshop to learn how to carefully prepare Udon noodles. While ramen is enjoyed around Japan, Udon is a popular thick noodled dish famous in the Southern regions of Japan. Learn first-hand the ways to prepare this delicious Japanese cuisine during your Takayama tour.

Next, we will visit the famous Ritsurin Garden. Michelin Green Guide graded the garden three stars and is a great place to take photos, especially from the highest point that overlooks the entire garden.

After soaking in some natural beauty, the tour will make its way through Tokushima. We will stop at the Awa-odori Museum, a museum dedicated to the prefecture dance of Tokushima. An annual festival where thousands of spectators will flock to the area to watch the dance being performed during Obon season. Here, we’ll learn about the history as well as learn some parts of the dance.


Osaka | Tour Disbands & Depart from Japan

10/19/2023 Breakfast

Your pleasant and memorable Japan tour ends today. The tour will disband after breakfast. Fly home with cherished memories or enjoy your extended stay in Japan.

**INFORMATION**
From downtown hotel in Osaka to KIX Airport - about 70 mins (Bus)
From downtown hotel in Osaka to ITM Airport - about 30 mins (Bus)

▪Important Notice▪
*JDT Recommends Experiences are not included with your tour package.
*Group Tour Participants (Not applicable to Private Tours) - Your group may be joined with other groups during the tour. If so, your tour guide and bus may be changed during your tour.
*Any special request(s) must be submitted when booking your tour (meals, accommodations, etc.). Note: Not all requests can be fulfilled.
*Itinerary, hotels, and meals are subject to change or cancellation without notice. No refund will be owed for any changes or cancellations if the tour still occurs.
*This tour includes 1.5~2 hours of walking on sightseeing days. Tour Participants are expected to be of moderate fitness, keep up with the pace of the group, and can climb stairs with no difficulty.
*B : Breakfast   L : Lunch   D : Dinner
*Please be advised that Maiko performances are not available on their designated days off or on days when special Maiko events are taking place.

Tour Departure and Prices 1) Price per person.   2) Airfare is not included.  

Start Twin Share Note
$4298
$3898
Quo Rsv
$4298
$3898
Quo Rsv




8 DAYS

7 nights accommodation


12 MEALS

7 breakfasts
4 lunches
1 dinners


TRANSPORT

All transport shown
Southern Japan Tour Map

Tour Includes


6 nights Western and 1 night Japanese-style hotel with hot-springs

Daily Breakfast-Buffets, 4 Lunches, and 1 Dinners included

All ground transportation in Japan during the tour

Complimentary Airport Transfers (see details)

Admission Fees, Tax & Gratuities at all included Destinations

Full time service of licensed English speaking tour guide & separate bus driver

Japan Deluxe Tours Handbook and Tour Goods Package

Free Wi-Fi in Bus & Most hotels

Not Included
  • - Airfare
  • - Travel Insurance
  • - Optional Excursions

Travel Highlights


A day exploring the Hiroshima Peace Park and A-Bomb Dome

A trip to the famous Floating Torii gates of Itsukushima Shrine

Dogo Onsen, a 3,000 year old hot-springs, where former royalty has stayed

Nagasaki's unique Dutch inspired Glover Garden and Oura Church

Time exploring Takachiho Gorge, where Japan's myths and legends originate

A delicious Udon Lunch in Takamatsu

Brave the mystifying wonders of Beppu's Tour of Hell

Kumamoto History & views of the magnificent Japanese Castle

Important Information


The maximum number of participants will not exceed 26 people during your Japan tour. Your group may be joined with other tour groups during the tour. Please note that your bus and tour guide may be changed if other groups join the tour.

Single travelers are required to pay a single supplement in order to guarantee single room accommodation.

We request one suitcase, one carry-on bag, and an overnight bag per person. The tote bag we provide can be used to hold any small merchandise/souvenirs purchased during your tour. When you check out, bring your luggage to the lobby and the bus driver will assist in loading it onto the bus. When you arrive at the next hotel, the bus driver will unload your luggage for you to bring to your room.

Please note: The maximum weight of a checked in bag is typically 20 Kilograms or 44 Pounds. You will be traveling with your luggage except during the bullet train ride (if applicable).

All hotel rooms come with a full bathroom and room amenities free of charge unless stated otherwise.

All motor coaches come equipped with air-conditioning, plenty of space, comfortable seats, and Wi-Fi.

All of our tours begin in either Tokyo or Osaka/Kyoto. When beginning or ending a tour in Tokyo, please book flights to or from Narita International Airport or Haneda International Airport. For tours beginning or ending in Osaka/Kyoto, please book flights to or from Kansai International Airport or Itami Airport.

We recommend you do not book your flights until the tour status changes from Book Now to Guaranteed Departure. You can also contact us if you would like for Japan Deluxe Tour's to arrange your flights.

Traveling and visiting sights in Japan includes a good amount of walking. To fully enjoy the tour, please be prepared to keep up with the pace of the group, climb stairs with no difficulty, and wear comfortable shoes for all day use.

Guests with tattoos may not be able to use the hot-springs or onsens while in Japan. We apologize if you are unable to enjoy this experience during your stay.

We understand sometimes unanticipated situations may arise before or even during your Japan tour. In order to best assist you when things don't go as planned, Japan Deluxe Tours recommends purchasing travel insurance offered through Travel Guard® Insurance.

Travel Guard® Insurance offers coverage for: Trip Cancellation, Trip Interruption, Travel Delay, Baggage Delay, Medical Expense (deductible required), Emergency Medical Transportation, and an Exclusive Family Protection Plan: One child 16 or under will receive coverage at no additional cost for every adult that purchase a protection plan. Every Travel Guard policy includes 24-hour emergency travel assistance services for emergencies or last-minute travel changes, such as re-booking flights, hotel reservations or ground transportation, tracking lost luggage, and more!
For more information about coverage, view our Travel Insurance Page.

travel guard logo

Please notify us before your tour starts if you have any dietary restrictions or requirements we should be aware about. Japan Deluxe Tours can provide Vegetarian meals for guests, and we will do our best to cater to any serious allergies or dietary restrictions. We will not be able to substitute or change meals after your tour begins.

Day
Day 1
10/12/2023

Osaka | Arrive in Japan & Check-in Hotel

10/12/2023

Welcome to Japan! We will have transportation services to take you to your hotel. Please refer to your tour app for more information.
Rest at the hotel and be ready to start your exciting tour tomorrow.

**INFORMATION**
From KIX Airport to downtown hotel in Osaka - about 70 mins (Bus)
From ITM Airport to downtown hotel in Osaka - about 30 mins (Bus)

Day 2
10/13/2023

Himeji | UNESCO Certified White Heron Castle

10/13/2023 Breakfast Lunch
[ Hyogo Prefecture ] Himeji Castle | Koko-en | Check into the hotel

Today, we will travel west to the Himeji prefecture to visit the magnificent Himeji Castle. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993, it is considered one of Japan’s three premier castle. Nicknamed the White Heron Castle due to the castle’s brilliant white walls, the castle maintains almost all of its original structures since its construction in the early 1600’s. After overcoming war, natural disasters, and going through restorative work, enjoy exploring around the stunning castle grounds.

In Hiroshima, Okonomiyaki (Japanese style savory pancakes) has been a popular dish since before the World War. We will serve you this local favorite for today's dinner.


Rihga Royal Hotel Hiroshima or similar

Day 3
10/14/2023

Hiroshima | the Iconic Floating Shrine of Japan

10/14/2023 Breakfast Lunch

Today, we will make our way to Hiroshima for a visit to several iconic sites. A visit to Hiroshima is not complete without a visit to the iconic A-Bomb Dome, the only surviving building from the aftermath of World War Two's atomic bombing. Surrounding the magnificent A-Bomb Dome is the Peace Memorial Park where travelers can see and read about the history of the war. The A-Bomb Dome has been preserved as a reminder of the tragedy for future generations and to symbolize its wishes for everlasting peace. Walk along the park with your tour guide to see famous attractions like Sadako’s statue and the Freedom Bell. Then we will go into the Peace Memorial Museum.

In the afternoon, our Japan Tour will head to Miyajima, an island south of Hiroshima known for its Itsukushima Shrine, or floating torii gate. During high tide, the torii gate looks as though it is floating in water, creating a unique sight, considered one of Japan’s three most beautiful sights. Miyajima is also known for its mouthwatering momiji manju (maple leaf shaped cake with red beans) and delicious oysters which you can enjoy while your tour group explores scenic island.


Rihga Royal Hotel Kokura or similar

Day 4
10/15/2023

Nagasaki | The Marvelous Dutch-Inspired Glover Garden

10/15/2023 Breakfast Lunch

Our day begins in Nagasaki where we will be visiting several historically significant locations. The first stop will be the Nagasaki Peace Memorial Park, a symbol of peace and a testament to the horrors of war. The Peace Statue sits at the epicenter of the blast from the atomic bomb dropped on the city. The right hand points up to symbolize the atomic bomb while the left hand points towards future peace. The statue's bent right leg symbolizes meditation, while the bent left leg represents the need to stand up against war. The closed eyes are to offer prayers and respect for the victims' souls lost in the devastation blast.

From there, our vacation will head to Glover Garden which exhibits Western style mansions. After viewing these gorgeous mansions, we will continue with our foreign influences to the Oura Catholic Church. The Oura Catholic Church is Japan’s oldest standing Catholic church. We will then take a bullet train to Kumamoto and proceed to the hotel.


Candeo Hotels Kumamoto Shinshigai or similar

Day 5
10/16/2023

Takachiho | the Myths come alive at Takachiho Gorge

10/16/2023 Breakfast Dinner

Your Japan tour will make its way to the fabled lands of Takachiho. Our first stop of the day will be the Tunnel Station which houses the Kagura Shuzo Brewery. Sample the local sake and shop for potential gifts at this unique destination. The group will explore the Awano Iwato Shrine as we make our way through Takachiho Gorge. The gorge is said to be the hiding spot of the Sun Goddess, Amaterasu, when Susano-o, the God of Storms, was terrorizing her. The natural greenery in contrast with the volcanic rock that forms the gorge makes for a magnificent scenery.

At the Takachiho Gorge, guests can either enjoy the river ride along the water, which is often recommended if you want an up close view of the waterfalls and cliffs.


Suginoi Hotel or similar

Day 6
10/17/2023

Dogo | The Real World Inspiration for "Spirited Away"

10/17/2023 Breakfast

Embark on a memorable journey to Yufuin, a quaint hot spring town nestled in the picturesque mountains of Kyushu. Here, you'll marvel at the serene beauty of Kinrin Lake, named after the golden scales of the mystical fish that are said to inhabit its waters. Then, the tour continuses to experience the extraordinary natural phenomenon of Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell), one of Beppu's most famous "hells", known for its cobalt blue hot spring waters.

Moving on, we’ll take a ferry over to neighboring Shikoku for a visit to Dogo Onsen, which is said to have over 3,000 years of history. The onsen is also widely known for welcoming the imperial family as guests and has a room called Yushinden on reserve exclusively for their use. Dogo Onsen's impressive wooden structure served as a model for the famous film Spirited Away.

Upon arrival to Dogo Onsen, we will walk around the old fashion hot spring shopping arcade that will bring you a somewhat retro experience. You can find a mechanical clock tower that performs every half an hour, a foot bath, and many orange related items as this area is known as the biggest producer of oranges in Japan.


Daiwa Roynet Hotel Matsuyama or similar

Day 7
10/18/2023

Takamatsu & Tokushima | The best of Shikoku with Autumn Folidge

10/18/2023 Breakfast Lunch

Our Cherry Blossom tour will begin the day by heading towards Osaka. Traveling East, our vacation brings us to an interesting Udon Making workshop to learn how to carefully prepare Udon noodles. While ramen is enjoyed around Japan, Udon is a popular thick noodled dish famous in the Southern regions of Japan. Learn first-hand the ways to prepare this delicious Japanese cuisine during your Takayama tour.

Next, we will visit the famous Ritsurin Garden. Michelin Green Guide graded the garden three stars and is a great place to take photos, especially from the highest point that overlooks the entire garden.

After soaking in some natural beauty, the tour will make its way through Tokushima. We will stop at the Awa-odori Museum, a museum dedicated to the prefecture dance of Tokushima. An annual festival where thousands of spectators will flock to the area to watch the dance being performed during Obon season. Here, we’ll learn about the history as well as learn some parts of the dance.


Sheraton Miyako Osaka Hotel or similar

Day 8
10/19/2023

Osaka | Tour Disbands & Depart from Japan

10/19/2023 Breakfast

Your pleasant and memorable Japan tour ends today. The tour will disband after breakfast. Fly home with cherished memories or enjoy your extended stay in Japan.

**INFORMATION**
From downtown hotel in Osaka to KIX Airport - about 70 mins (Bus)
From downtown hotel in Osaka to ITM Airport - about 30 mins (Bus)

Dining Experience

Okonomiyaki

Okonomiyaki

Okonomiyaki (Japanese style pancakes or pizza) has been a popular dish in Hiroshima. It is primarily made from flour, eggs, cabbage mixed and is cooked on a hot plate.

See Details >
Udon

Udon

Udon are Japanese thick noodles made from wheat flour. The thickness of the udon noodle varies by type of udon but udons in general are the thickest types of noodles in Japan.

See Details >
Nagasaki Champon Ramen

Champon

Champon is a noodle dish that originated in Nagasaki. The dish was created with the intent to provide cheap and filling meals for Chinese students studying in Japan during the Meiji period.

See Details >

Cultural Experience

Hot Spring

Hot Spring

Natural hot springs (onsen) are numerous and highly popular across Japan. There are many types of hot springs, distinguished by the minerals dissolved in the water.

See Details >
Japanese Style Hotel with Tatami mat

Japanese Style Hotel

Ryokan is Japanese style hotel which has natural onsen (spa) water that have rejuvenated people for hundreds of years. Moreover, it has tatami floors, futon beds and traditional Japanese cuisine.

See Details >
Awaodori Dancing

Awaodori Dance

With a live performance and a workshop, immerse in this exciting Japanese tradition. Learn, participate, and appreciate this vibrant cultural activity firsthand.

See Details >

Riding Experience

ferry

Ferry

A short ferry trip is a good opportunity to relax and perhaps strike up a conversation with your fellow travellers.

See Details >


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Tour Standard

  • All ground transportation
  • All admission fees as listed
  • Gratuities & Local Taxes
  • Round-trip airport transfers
  • licensed tour guide throughout
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