Tour Leader

Jim Archibald

Jim Archibald 's University majors are English Literature, Political Science and Australian History.

Japan, a small but glimmering jewel, is a nation of over 6,800 islands approximately 8,000km north of Oceania. This Japanese Ed-Venture leads you to the mystic, time-honoured culture of the island nation. We encounter history from ancient period; religions such as Buddhism and Shintoism; the philosophy of the people through visits to world renowned temples and shrines; and old towns full of ancient legends. Together we will share some traditions the Japanese have inherited: the solemn tea ceremony; daintily designed silk kimono garments; and the peaceful Zen gardens, to name a few. A variety of sites including UNESCO World Heritages, have been chosen for this Ed-Venture, all filled with clues to understand the essence of Japan.

Particularly, this time the tour is arranged to coordinate with the cherry blossom viewing period. New planting season starts with cherry blossom. Somewhere during the travel, you will see the flower blooming.

We have excluded some meals (2 lunches and 2 dinners) during the program, to allow participants time to sample local restaurants. Participants are welcomed to view the performing art of Kabuki at an additional fee.

Tour inclusions

• International return economy class air travel with Singapore Airlines.
• Departure taxes applicable to the standard itinerary.
• 10 night accommodation in comfortable hotels with private facilities.
• 1 night at at ryokan-a traditional Japanese inn
• Shinkansen (Bullet Train) from Kyoto to Okayama, Okayama to Hiroshima.
• Daily Japanese and/or Western buffet style breakfasts.
• 9 lunches and 9 dinners.
• Transport, lectures and field trips as indicated.
• Services of a Program Leader and translator/guide.
• Touring by comfortable and modern coach (short distance transfers may include taxi).
• Applicable entry fees and services of local guides.
• Gratuities and service charges.
• Detailed preparatory material.
• Comprehensive travel insurance.
• Domestic flight from Hiroshima to Tokyo including airport taxes.
• 1 night at Ryokan - a traditional Japanese Inn.

Tour exclusions

• Items of a personal nature, such as telephone calls and laundry.
• Optional activities that are suggested during free time (Kabuki theatre)
• 2 lunches and 2 dinners during the program to sample local cuisine.
• Additional premiums will be imposed by the insurer for those participants who are over 60 years and/or with pre-existing medical conditions.

Program Notes

• Prices quoted are ex Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth, Auckland and Christchurch.
• Limited singles may be available on the ferry.

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