Japan: A Cultural Odyssey
1 September - 14 September 2024 (13 days)
Associate Professor of Korean History, Oxford University
Price does not include international flights.
Join us on a captivating journey through Japan’s rich art and culture, spanning from its ancient origins to its modern achievements. Discover how Japan’s unique heritage is reflected in its serene temples, majestic castles, elegant architecture and vibrant urban life. Experience the beauty and diversity of Japan’s fine arts, from the intricate carvings of Nikko to the expressive drama of Kabuki. Delight in the exquisite elegance of the tea ceremony and the sumptuous cuisine of a traditional ryokan.
Our itinerary includes a three-night stay in Tokyo, where you will explore the iconic sights of the Imperial Palace and the futuristic skyscrapers of Shinjuku, as well as the charming “shitamachi” area, where the old Edo culture still thrives. You will also enjoy a day trip to Nikko, home to the stunning Tōshō-gū Shrine complex, a masterpiece of Japanese craftsmanship. Next, you will visit the sacred Shinto shrine at Kamakura and the scenic Hakone region, where you will admire the majestic Mt Fuji.
You will then board Japan’s iconic Bullet Train and travel to Hiroshima, where you will witness the sobering legacy of the atomic bomb at the Atomic Dome and Memorial Peace Park. From there, you will take a boat to the enchanting island of Miyajima, where you will spend a night in a traditional ryokan and marvel at the famous floating torii gate. Finally, you will arrive in Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan, where you will immerse yourself in its splendid temples, gardens, palaces and markets.
Highlights
- Enjoy a night relaxing and dining in a traditional Ryokan
- Visit Kōraku-en, one of the three most famous gardens in Japan
- Learn more of the delicate technique of the fine arts, the expressive drama of Kabuki theatre and the elegance of the tea ceremony
