Japan 2008/2009 - (Page 11) Hidden Treasures of Japan 15 DAYS/14 NIGHTS, KYOTO TO KOBE, INCLUDING LAND TOUR — OR — 12 DAYS/11 NIGHTS, CRUISE ONLY ROUND TRIP FROM KOBE Feel the weave of a tatami mat on your stockinged feet as you slip off your shoes upon entering a Japanese home. Sip warm matcha from a bowl in an ancient chadô, or tea ceremony. Marvel at the ever-changing canvas of a pond of koi swimming through dappled sunlight, or at the tangible presence of a long-deceased samurai in a wooden fortress, centuries old. Join us as we sail round trip from Kobe on an ocean voyage, exploring Japan’s rich historical and cultural tapestry in the same way its earliest influences did — by ship. As long as you’ve come this far, you should not miss some of the ancient treasures of Japan that are just a few hours inland from the sea — the capital in 1450, is world famous for its stone Zen garden and considered by many to be the single greatest masterpiece of Japanese culture. The brilliant Kinkakuji (Temple of the Golden Pavilion) is named for the gold leaf on Japanese lacquer that covers the temple’s entire second and third floors. BLD DAY 4 NARA / KObE Stand at the foot of Todaiji Temple’s mighty bronze Buddha, the Daibutsu — the largest HIDDEN TREASURES OF JAPAN bronze statue in the world — and look up. The seated giant weighs 550 tons and incorporates 290 pounds of gold. Horyuji Temple, founded in 607, is the oldest intact temple complex in Japan, and houses the world’s oldest wooden buildings. This UNESCO World Heritage Site holds more than 2,300 items considered of historical importance, including a vast collection of Buddhist art. Transfer to Kobe and check into your deluxe hotel. BL Nara. This is why more than half our guests start with our land tour. DAY 1 OSAKA / KYOTO Arrive in mystical and historic cities of Kyoto and DAY 3 KYOTO Nijo Castle has thick stone outer walls, a moat, hidden rooms where the shogun’s samurai could observe visitors and corridors constructed with “nightingale floors” that squeak as you walk over them, warning of your approach. Visit Kiyomizu Temple, dedicated to the 11-faced Buddhist deity, Kannon. Built on stilts, this UNESCO World Heritage site boasts a spectacular view of the city. BL Osaka, where you’ll be met and transferred to Kyoto. Check into your deluxe hotel. DAY 2 KYOTO Spend the day exploring what the Japanese call Nihon no Furasato (the Heart of Japan). The capital of Japan for over 11 centuries, Kyoto remains a living museum of Japan’s artistic and cultural heritage. The Ryoanji (Peaceful Dragon) Temple, founded DAY 5 KObE Perched between the coast and the mountains, Kobe is one of the most livable and attractive cities in Japan. www.cruisewest.com JAPAN 11 http://www.cruisewest.com
Table of Contents Feed for the Digital Edition of Japan 2008/2009 Japan 2008/2009 Contents Japan Why Cruise West? Cruise West's Spirit of Oceanus Exploration Leaders Hidden Treasures of Japan + Kyoto Land Tour About Your Ship Peace of Mind Plan Frequently Asked Questions Other Spirit of Oceanus Destinations Japan 2008/2009 Japan 2008/2009 - Japan 2008/2009 (Page Cover1) Japan 2008/2009 - Japan 2008/2009 (Page Cover2) Japan 2008/2009 - Contents (Page 1) Japan 2008/2009 - Japan (Page 2) Japan 2008/2009 - Japan (Page 3) Japan 2008/2009 - Why Cruise West? (Page 4) Japan 2008/2009 - Why Cruise West? (Page 5) Japan 2008/2009 - Cruise West's Spirit of Oceanus (Page 6) Japan 2008/2009 - Cruise West's Spirit of Oceanus (Page 7) Japan 2008/2009 - Exploration Leaders (Page 8) Japan 2008/2009 - Exploration Leaders (Page 9) Japan 2008/2009 - Hidden Treasures of Japan + Kyoto Land Tour (Page 10) Japan 2008/2009 - Hidden Treasures of Japan + Kyoto Land Tour (Page 11) Japan 2008/2009 - Hidden Treasures of Japan + Kyoto Land Tour (Page 12) Japan 2008/2009 - Hidden Treasures of Japan + Kyoto Land Tour (Page 13) Japan 2008/2009 - Hidden Treasures of Japan + Kyoto Land Tour (Page 14) Japan 2008/2009 - Hidden Treasures of Japan + Kyoto Land Tour (Page 15) Japan 2008/2009 - About Your Ship (Page 16) Japan 2008/2009 - About Your Ship (Page 17) Japan 2008/2009 - Peace of Mind Plan (Page 18) Japan 2008/2009 - Frequently Asked Questions (Page 19) Japan 2008/2009 - Other Spirit of Oceanus Destinations (Page 20) Japan 2008/2009 - Other Spirit of Oceanus Destinations (Page 21) Japan 2008/2009 - Other Spirit of Oceanus Destinations (Page Cover4)
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