THIS JOURNEY WILL examine the fascinating history and culture of Japan, from its beginnings during the Nara period, through the rise and fall of the Shoguns into an era of modernisation and economic power.

Explore the country’s cultural heritage as it is reflected in the tranquillity of the Shinto, the great castles of the Samurai culture, the distinct architecture of the Edo period and today’s modern way of life that exists in the skyscrapers of Shinjuku.

Learn more of the delicate technique of the fine arts, the expressive drama of the Kabuki Theatre and the exquisite elegance of the tea ceremony.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Explore Korakuen – one of Japan’s most important Gardens
• Visit Nikko – a centre of Buddhist and Shinto mountain worship
• Travel on the Shinkansen, Japan’s iconic Bullet Train, to Kanazawa, where it is still possible to get ‘a pre-modern view’ of the country