Autumn in
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Aboard the Spirit of Oceanus October 27–November 10, 2006 Optional Post-Trip Extension to Nikko w November 10–13, 2006
Dear National Trust Traveler, Japan’s natural beauty is most striking in autumn, when the entire island is wreathed in a profusion of fall color. Discover the nation’s dramatic landscapes, centuries-old Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines, shogunate castles, and renowned gardens on this memorable 15-day adventure.
Embark the gracious Spirit of Oceanus, chartered exclusively for our group, for a seven-night cruise through the Inland Sea and the Sea of Japan. Explore the 18thcentury storehouses of Kurashiki; pause to reflect on hope and rebirth at Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park and Museum; view the “Garden of Six Qualities” at Kanazawa; and witness the famous Shinto shrine at Izumo. In Korea, marvel at the World Heritage Site of Gyeongju, the seat of the Shilla dynasty. Admire Miyajima Island’s famous floating scarlet torii gate, and tour the traditional arts center and samurai quarter of Hagi. Witness the enduring craft of pottery making and delve into the intricate, time-honored ritual of a Japanese tea ceremony. Throughout our journey, savor the enticing flavors of Japanese cuisine and enjoy exceptional service at top Western-style hotels in Tokyo and Kyoto, as well as the many luxuries on board the ship. A comprehensive lecture program with Asian Studies experts Sue Fawn Chung and Peter Berton, and historical archaeologist W. Wayne Farris, will enhance our understanding of Japan’s complex history and architectural achievements. We are sharing this program with travelers from MIT, USC, and the Archaeological Institute of America. Join us this fall and experience the rich culture, intriguing history, and ephemeral grace of Japan in autumn, aboard the Spirit of Oceanus. Sincerely, Scott Gerloff Director, National Trust Tours P.S. Since cabin space is limited, we encourage you to reserve early.
© Ulana Switucha / Alamy
Our journey begins in the exhilarating modern capital of Tokyo. Study the city’s fascinating past, from the days of Tokugawa shoguns to postwar reconstruction. Continue by high-speed bullet train to Kyoto to explore ancient wooden temples, breathtaking gardens, and historic monuments. From Kyoto, we sojourn to Nara, where Japan’s first capital was established in the 8th century, and to the imposing feudal castle town of Himeji.
Young bride in traditional wedding kimono.
Los Angeles/Tokyo
Friday & Saturday, October 27-28 Depart the U.S. for Tokyo on the recommended group flight or independently. Arriving in Tokyo on Saturday afternoon, transfer to the Imperial Hotel, ideally located near the famous Ginza district and the Imperial Palace grounds. IMPERIAL HOTEL (MEALS ALOFT)
Tokyo
Sunday, October 29 This morning, tour the Edo-Tokyo Museum, where exhibits cover Tokyo’s fascinating, 400-year history—from the days of the Tokugawa shoguns to postwar reconstruction. The afternoon is at leisure to relax or explore the city. Gather this evening for a festive welcome reception. IMPERIAL HOTEL (B, R)
Tokyo/Kyoto
Monday, October 30
In the morning, visit Tokyo’s National Museum, known for its remarkable collection of precious kimonos, samurai armor, antique lacquerware, woodblock prints, ancient scrolls, and archaeological artifacts. This afternoon, travel by highspeed bullet train to Kyoto, the imperial capital of Japan. Spared from the bombs of World War II, Kyoto retains hundreds
© Inmagine
© Evstratova Irina / ShutterStock
Kinkaku-ji, a Zen temple covered in gold leaf.
of antiquated wooden temples, shrines, and monuments bearing witness to the city’s illustrious past. KYOTO HOTEL OKURA (B, L)
Kyoto
Tuesday, October 31 Begin the day at Ryoan-ji, Japan’s most famous Zen rock garden. Considered by many to be the quintessence of Zen garden art, its white gravel forms are said to contain the secret to enlightenment. Continue to nearby Kinkaku-ji (Temple of the Golden Pavilion), a 14th-century sanctuary dedicated to the Buddhist goddess of mercy, and Nijo Castle, the exquisitely decorated seat of Tokugawa shoguns. After lunch, spend the afternoon at leisure before gathering for a special dinner. KYOTO HOTEL OKURA (B, L, D)
Kyoto
Wednesday, November 1 This morning’s program offers several delightful options. Learn about Zen Buddhism at a lovely shrine with a guest lecture on the life and training of a Buddhist priest, followed by a traditional tea ceremony and hands-on workshops on ikebana (flower arrangement) and calligraphy. Or, choose to visit a beautifully restored machiya (classical Japanese home) in the city center, followed by expert-led, interactive workshops in Noh theater and dancing, and the martial arts of kendo (swordplay) and kyudo (archery).
Traditional Japanese oilpaper umbrella.
Alternatively, join a specially-arranged trip to the tranquil Koko-dera Moss Temple of Saiho-ji, where more than 100 varieties of moss carpet the grounds. The afternoon is at leisure to explore the many treasures of Kyoto. KYOTO HOTEL OKURA (B, L)
Kyoto/Nara/Kyoto
Thursday, November 2
Depart Kyoto for the historic city of Nara. Japan’s first “permanent” capital was established at Nara in 710 A.D., and the city blossomed as a cultural and political center. In the 700s, when Emperor Shomu ordered the construction of Todai-ji, he commissioned a statue of the Great Buddha, which, at 437 tons, is still the largest bronze sculpture in Japan today. After lunch at a local restaurant, drive to the outskirts of Nara for an exploration of dazzling Horyu-ji, Japan’s oldest surviving Buddhist temple, housing many impressive sculptures. Spend the evening at leisure and enjoy dinner on your own. KYOTO HOTEL OKURA (B, L)
Kyoto/Himeji/Embark Spirit of Oceanus Friday, November 3
After a morning on your own in Kyoto, transfer to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Himeji. Dating from 1580, impressive Himeji Castle, known as the “White Egret” for
its graceful white form, is Japan’s most grand feudal building and a masterwork of wood construction. Depart Himeji and board the Spirit of Oceanus, our home for the next seven nights. SPIRIT OF OCEANUS (B, D)
Kurashiki/At Sea
Saturday, November 4
This morning, go ashore in the enchanting town of Kurashiki. A prosperous community of rice growers in feudal times, its black-tiled rice warehouses have now been converted into shops, teahouses, and museums. Return to the ship for lunch and an afternoon of cruising on the Inland Sea. Tonight our captain hosts a festive welcome reception and dinner aboard ship. SPIRIT OF OCEANUS (B, L, R, D)
Hiroshima & Miyajima
Sunday, November 5
Call at Hiroshima to tour the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, a powerful reminder of the atomic blast that brought about the end of World War II and ushered in the nuclear age. Continue to Shukkei-en, a serene stroll garden dotted with teahouses and surrounding a central pond. Originally built in the 17th century, it is now a poignant symbol of the city’s incredible postwar reconstruction. This afternoon, journey by Zodiac to Miyajima Island, which beckons visitors with its beautiful floating scarlet torii gate—the largest in Japan—leading to the 6th-century
© Inmagine
Traditional Japanese tea ceremony.
Itsukushima Shinto shrine. Commoners were once forbidden to set foot on this holy island and could approach only by boat. SPIRIT OF OCEANUS (B, L, D)
Hagi
Monday, November 6 Go ashore in Hagi and walk through the legendary samurai quarter. Visit Tokoji, with its striking display of 500 stone lanterns honoring the graves of the ruling Mori clan lords. Hagi is also noted for its distinctive rough-textured pottery, which has a milky glaze. Meet a local ceramicist for a demonstration at a centuries-old kiln. SPIRIT OF OCEANUS (B, L, D)
Busan & Gyeongju, South Korea Tuesday, November 7
Call at Busan, South Korea’s bustling southern port city. Transfer by coach to the open-air museum of Gyeongju, cradle of the Shilla kingdom and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander amid the excavated monuments, burial tombs, and temples of the once-powerful dynasty that ruled Korea for 1,000 years. Savor the aromas and tastes of a traditional Korean barbecue lunch, then explore the stone terraces of Pulguksa Temple, the crowning glory of Shilla artistry and architecture. Finally, visit the excellent National Museum, where gold adornments, stone sculpture, and pottery from recent excavations are showcased in one of the best collections in the country. SPIRIT OF OCEANUS (B, L, D)
White Egret Castle, Himeji.
virgin forest, Izumo Taisha is dedicated to Okuninushi, the god of happiness in marriage. Return to the ship for lunch and a relaxing afternoon of cruising. SPIRIT OF OCEANUS (B, L, D)
Kanazawa
Thursday, November 9 In Japanese culture, six qualities define the perfect garden: spaciousness, artistic merit, majesty, abundant water, extensive views, and seclusion. All are manifested in the Kenrokuen Garden, or “Garden of Six Qualities.” After a stroll through the grounds, relish a typical Japanese lunch, followed by a visit to a local workshop to observe the delicate process of hand-painting silk for kimonos. SPIRIT OF OCEANUS (B, L, D)
Disembark Spirit of Oceanus/Niigata/Tokyo/U.S. Friday, November 10
Disembark the Spirit of Oceanus in Niigata and transfer by bullet train to Tokyo, then to the Narita International Airport for flights home. Re-cross the International Date Line and “gain” one day, arriving in the U.S. on Friday morning. (B; MEALS ALOFT)
Optional Post-Trip Extension to Nikko November 10–13, 2006
North of Tokyo lies the revered Shinto and Buddhist pilgrimage destination of Nikko, renowned for Japan’s most lavishly decorated shrine complex and magnificent mountain scenery that is particularly exquisite when dressed in the rich colors of autumn. Immerse yourself in traditional Japan during a two-night stay at an authentic ryokan (Japanesestyle inn), where service is elevated to an art form. Enjoy an onsen (hot springs bath) in one of the small towns nearby, and spend one night in Nikko itself, with time to explore the World Heritagelisted Tosho-gu shrine, mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu, founder of the Tokugawa shogunate. Details will be included in the confirmation mailing you will receive from High Country Passage.
Extension program rates: $2,795 per person, double occupancy. Add $495 for singles.
Izumo, Japan
Wednesday, November 8 Today we anchor off Izumo and venture to Japan’s oldest and largest Shinto shrine. A striking complex of buildings nestled in a Japanese artists consider realism less important than capturing the soul of the subject expressively.
Japan’s temple gardens are renowned for their beauty and tranquility.
Study Leaders
Program Information
Sue Fawn Chung is an Associate Professor of History at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, where she teaches both Japanese and Chinese history. An award-winning educator, accomplished author, and prominent expert in Asian Studies and Asian American Studies, Dr. Chung has also produced and consulted on numerous international films, documentaries, and museum exhibits related to Asian art and history. She received her Bachelor’s degree from UCLA, her Master’s degree from Harvard University, and a Ph.D. from the University of California, Berkeley.
Airfare: International and U.S. domestic airfare is not included in the program rates. A roundtrip group fare from Los Angeles to Tokyo is available for $915 per person. This fare is based on prices quoted in October 2005, and is subject to change. Our tour operator is happy to assist you in making all of your air travel arrangements.
program of lectures, shore excursions, and special events • All on-tour train and coach transportation • Gratuities to porters, guides, drivers, waiters, and ship crew for all group activities • Port charges • Transfers and baggage handling between airports, piers, and hotels for those using or meeting group flights • Pre-tour information, including a reading list
Included: Seven nights aboard the luxurious Spirit of Oceanus • Two nights at the Imperial Hotel in Tokyo • Four nights at the Kyoto Hotel Okura in Kyoto • All meals as indicated in the itinerary, including welcome and farewell receptions • Bottled water on coaches throughout the tour • Comprehensive
Not Included: International and domestic round-trip airfare • Accident/baggage/ cancellation insurance • Immunizations • Passport and visa fees • Airport security fees imposed by the government or airline • Transfers to and from airports for individuals not using or meeting group flights • Meals and beverages other than those specified as included in the itinerary • Laundry, room service, telephone and fax charges, excess baggage charges, personal expenses, and other items not specifically mentioned as included • Expenses incurred by High Country Passage in making individual travel arrangements in conjunction with this tour
W. Wayne Farris is the Soshitsu Sen XV Distinguished Professor of Traditional Japanese Culture and History at the University of Hawaii at Manoa. He is a world-renowned authority on ancient Japanese history and historical archaeology, and has lived, taught, and traveled extensively in Japan. Dr. Farris is a member of the American Advisory Committee of the Japan Foundation, and an award-winning author and educator. He received his Ph.D. from Harvard University.
What to Expect: The weather will generally be mild, with rain showers possible. Average temperatures range from lows in the 50s Fahrenheit to highs in the mid-60s Fahrenheit. You will need to climb into and out of Zodiacs for excursions ashore, where staff and crew will be on hand to assist. While ashore, we travel in deluxe, air-conditioned coaches. © Inmagine
Peter Berton is Professor Emeritus of International Relations at the University of Southern California, where for 30 years he was Coordinator for the Asia/Pacific Regional Studies Program. He has taught at Stanford and UCLA, in Japan, England, and Germany. He has held research positions at Harvard, Columbia, and Tokyo Universities as well as at the International Research Center for Japanese Studies in Kyoto. He is also a widely published author. Dr. Berton received his Ph.D. from Columbia University.
The largest bronze statue of Buddha in Japan is in Nara.
Cover: © Lonely Planet Images Back cover: Miyajima’s floating scarlet torii. © Inmagine Mail panel: A close-up of a geisha hand and a fan. © Radu Razvan / ShutterStock
© Radu Razvan / Dreamstime.com
Japanese lanterns.
HOT TUB
603
601
606
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602
Sun Deck
511 509 507 505
BISTRO GYM E WC
512 510 508 506
427 425 423 421
CLUB LOUNGE LIBRARY
EXPLORER LOUNGE
Spirit of Oceanus OWNER’S SUITE
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BRIDGE
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605
Sports Deck
419 417 415
428 426 424 422 420 418 416 414
347 345 343 341 339
WC
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Club Deck
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348 346 344 342 340 338 336 334 332 330
Oceanus Deck
The Spirit of Oceanus is a comfortable 120-passenger expedition ship refurbished in 2004. Its 60 spacious outside staterooms feature either two twin beds or one king bed, ocean views, a separate seating area, picture window or porthole, en suite bathroom with marble vanity and sink, generous storage space (either walk-in closet or wardrobe), safe, refrigerator, individual climate and audio controls, and TV/VCR. All luxury suites have sliding glass doors that open onto private teak balconies. Public areas include a restaurant that accommodates all passengers at one seating for meals, two lounges, library, heated pool, and an elevator providing access to all passenger decks. A fleet of Zodiacs is used for some shore excursions.
Program Rates, per person Double
Single
Superior
$7,990
$11,985
Majestic
$8,490
$12,735
Premium
$8,790
$13,185
Classic
$9,390
$14,085
Explorer
$10,490
N/A
Grand Titan
$11,490
N/A
Owner’s Suite
$13,190
N/A
(Average 215 sq. ft., Main or Oceanus Decks)
(Average 240 sq. ft., Main or Oceanus Decks) 261 259 257 255 E
262 260 258 256 254 252 250
WC
DINING ROOM
WC
Main Deck
(Average 235 sq. ft., Club Deck)
(Average 250 sq. ft., Oceanus Deck)
(Average 277 sq. ft., Sports Deck)
(Average 353 sq. ft., Sun Deck)
(437 sq. ft., private sun deck)
Terms and Conditions
Autumn in Japan
Reservations and Payments: A deposit of $1,000 per person is required to reserve space for the program. Please make your check payable to National Trust Tours and mail it with the completed reservation form to the National Trust for Historic Preservation Study Tours, c/o Bank of America, P.O. Box 320, Washington, D.C. 20055-0320. MasterCard and Visa are also accepted. Final payment is due June 27, 2006, 120 days before departure.
Aboard the Spirit of Oceanus
Cancellation and Refunds: Deposits are refundable, less a $250 per person handling charge, if a written notice of cancellation is received by the National Trust for Historic Preservation by June 27, 2006, 120 days before departure. • Cancellations made within 120 days of departure are subject to full forfeiture of all money paid unless the tour is full and your space is resold (in which case only the $250 handling fee will apply). An application for cancellation insurance will be mailed with your confirmation. For your protection, cancellation insurance is strongly recommended. • Cancellation on day of departure or after tour departs: no refund. • Cancellation of program by the National Trust for Historic Preservation: full refund except for airline cancellation penalty incurred by purchasing a non-refundable domestic ticket to the tour departure city and return. • No refund for unused portions of this tour.
October 27–November 10, 2006 Since space is limited, please reserve early. Call 1 (800) 944-6847 to reserve by phone, or send your completed reservation form and deposit to National Trust for Historic Preservation Tours, c/o Bank of America, P.O. Box 320, Washington, D.C. 20055-0320. Enclosed is a check for $_________ ($1,000 per person), payable to the National Trust for Historic Preservation, to reserve ________ place(s) on the Autumn in Japan tour aboard the Spirit of Oceanus. or Please charge the deposit of $1,000 per person to my: [ ] VISA [ ] MasterCard
Health: Participants must be physically fit and in active good health. We consider this a moderately strenuous program that is at times physically demanding and busy. Daily programs can involve up to one mile of walking, often on uneven terrain where stairs are unavailable or do not have handrails. By forwarding the deposit for passage, the passenger certifies that he/she does not have any physical or other condition or disability that would create a hazard for him/herself or other passengers. If you have any doubt about your ability to participate fully due to health conditions or disabilities, contact the National Trust at (800) 944-6847 or (202) 588-6300.
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Insurance: The National Trust for Historic Preservation strongly recommends that all tour participants purchase Trip Cancellation, Emergency Medical Evacuation, Baggage, Accident and Medical insurance for their tour. Upon our receipt of your initial tour deposit, a comprehensive travel insurance plan, underwritten by the Monumental General Casualty Company, will be made available to you. This insurance offers an important, time-sensitive feature regarding pre-existing medical conditions: Trip Cancellation and Medical insurance gives you full coverage for pre-existing medical conditions (even for immediate family and travel companions) provided (1) you purchase the insurance within 15 days of the date of your confirmation letter from National Trust Tours; (2) you insure all prepaid trip costs that are subject to cancellation penalties or restrictions; and (3) you are not disabled from travel at the time you pay your premium. Please call Travel Insurance Services at (800) 937-1387 if you have questions regarding the offering.
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A Note About Costs: The tour cost is based upon rates in effect in November 2005. While we will do everything possible to maintain the listed price, it is subject to change without notice to reflect fluctuations in exchange rates, tariffs or fuel charges. Responsibility: The National Trust for Historic Preservation and High Country Passage (HCP) act only as agents for the passenger with respect to transportation carriers and hotels, and exercise every care possible. However, we can assume no liability for injury, damage, delay, loss, accident or irregularity in connection with the services of any airplane, ship, motorcoach, train, or other conveyance used in carrying out the arrangements of the tour. We cannot accept responsibility for losses or additional expenses due to delay or changes in air or other services, sickness, weather, strike, war, quarantine, acts of God, or other causes beyond our control. All such losses or expenses will have to be borne by the passenger, as tour rates provide arrangements only for the time stated.
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Cabin preference: 1st choice
2nd choice
Bed preference in hotels: [ ] Two beds [ ] One bed If this is a reservation for one person, please complete the following: [ ] I prefer single accommodations. [ ] I plan to share accommodations with: [ ] Please arrange a share for me (not guaranteed). I am a [ ] non-smoker [ ] smoker.
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The price of the program is based on tariffs and rates in effect at the time of publication and is subject to change. Baggage is carried at the owner’s risk entirely. It is understood that the ticket when issued shall constitute the sole contract between the passenger and the airline concerned. The airlines concerned are not to be held responsible for any act, omission, or event during the time passengers are not on board their plane or conveyance. Neither the National Trust for Historic Preservation nor HCP accepts liability for the carrier’s cancellation penalty incurred by the purchase of a non-refundable ticket connected with the tour.
I/We have read the terms and conditions for the trip and agree to them.
Mission Statement: The National Trust for Historic Preservation is a private, nonprofit membership organization dedicated to saving historic places and revitalizing America’s communities. For more information, visit the Trust’s web site at www.nationaltrust.org.
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Autumn in
Japan Aboard Aboard the the Spirit Spirit of of Oceanus Oceanus
October October 27–November 27–November 10, 10, 2006 2006
Highlights VENTURE to ancient Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines, and shogunate castles.
LEARN about the timeless customs of monks and samurai. EXPERIENCE the intricate ritual of a tea ceremony. DISCOVER Japan’s ephemeral beauty in autumn.