Zen Oriental Journeys | Japan: Journey to Japan

Japanese Geisha look at Rock Garden at Kennin-ji Temple, Japan

Japan - Journey to Japan

1 November to 22 November 2024

Japan is a nation uniquely in touch with its past. At ancient shrines and in the heart of historic cities, its rich cultural heritage lives on as something not just to be admired from afar, but actively appreciated. From the transformative travel experience of participating in yamabushi— the mountain ascetic tradition—to hands-on practise at a seat of esoteric Buddhism, take in the spirit of Japan and its people with all five senses. Japan may be a small group of islands, but it is home to striking scenery and diverse landscapes. Volcanoes rise from the sea, crater lakes reflect the emerald green of ancient forests, rugged mountains stretch across two-thirds of the country, and stunning Zen gardens paint the country as bold and beautiful as a work of art.

Zen Oriental Journeys appoints tour managers and leaders who have significant experience in management at senior education department levels and are experienced in professional tour leadership. Journey to Japan will be led from Australia by Pamela Stuart. Pamela has a Master of Education (Studies of Asia) Degree and has worked in the Asia literacy field for more than 30 years as the WA Asia Education Foundation State Advisor, the AEF’s Australian Curriculum Strategy Manager, and as a writer of Asia-focussed digital resources. In these roles, Pamela has led a wide range of study tours to India, Vietnam, Cambodia, Japan, Malaysia, Indonesia and China. She has led and number of Zen Oriental Journeys’ programs including our recent Momijigari: Journey to Japan. She is recently retired as Principal Consultant, Curriculum Support, for the Department of Education WA.

Testimonial from our Journey to Japan in Nov 2023

"Thanks again for organising such a superb tour of Japan. It will be fondly remembered for a long time. I've got to admit that it was nothing like what I expected and far exceeded my expectations. Such a great balance of heritage sites, markets, food, people, locations, free time and experiences. I can't think of too much to change and am very grateful to you for encouraging me to go and also for your support and assistance throughout the trip."

Please note:

We included a visit to the house of the potter Kanjiro Kawai in Kyoto. Due to unprecedented growth of visitors, group visits have been suspended. We are trying to see if they can accept a small group and do it a couple of times but if not, you can visit in your free time. We have not included the entrance ticket in the price (About AUD 9.00)

Departure date: 1 November 2024
Duration: 22 days
Hotels: TBA

PRICING:

Price per person twin share (Land only): AUD 11610.00
Single Supplement: AUD 2678.00

Airfare: From Australia TBA when available for booking

FINAL PAYMENT & CLOSE OF BOOKING: 3 SEP 2024

Prices may fluctuate due to changes in charges, taxes and currency. Prices and flights are correct at time of preparing this program and are subject to availability at time of booking. Special conditions and seasonal surcharges to airfares and package prices may apply depending on date of travel. Flight times are subject to change by the airline. Please visit: http://www.smartraveller.gov.au or ring 1300 139 281 for information on current Government travel advice.

Bookings will be processed in order of receipt. Any bookings after this date will be accepted subject to visa processing, flight availability, land content and room availability. Such booking must be paid in full after confirmation of your acceptance in the tour. Special conditions and additional charges to airfares and package prices may apply depending on date of booking.