Discovery Tour: Authentic Arts and Holistic Wellbeing in Japan
March 15 - 27, 2027
Exclusive small group size: 10 3 spaces left
Trip Leader - Deirdre Butler | In-Country Expert - Yoshiko Oda
Welcome to a journey through the landscapes, traditions, and spirituality that define the Japanese heart. Moving through Nara, Kyoto, Shiga, Fukui, and Kanazawa, this 13-day exploration delves beneath the surface to touch the essence of Japan.
We trace the ancient temples of Nara, the tranquil Zen and courtly arts of Kyoto, and the life-giving waters of Lake Biwa. Journeying through the spiritual forests and rich craft heritage of Fukui, we conclude in the storied elegance of Kanazawa. From the nurturing thermal energy of historic hot springs to the local flavors and customs rooted in each soil, you will encounter a culture where life, craft, and nature are inextricably intertwined. Carefully curated to weave this narrative, this journey is an invitation to find new perspectives—an opportunity for personal awakening.
Shoko Kyakka "Watch your feet" - ancient Zen tradition
Accommodations range from select boutique hotels offering modern Western comforts to authentic traditional guesthouses tucked away in off-the-beaten-path villages.
This trip is designed for the moderately active walker. Anticipate about 6,000 - 10,000 steps per day as we explore temples, shrines, gardens and cities on foot. Packing light is essential due to limited luggage space on our private minibuses. Agility is needed for train travel and navigating the stairs in hotels that may not have elevators. A wealth of Japanese culinary experiences await where meals can not be substituted. The availability of western dishes will be limited. Vegan, and strict vegetarian diets (no fish), can not be accommodated due to the pervasiveness of the fish-based stock dashi. Please connect with us before booking if you are unsure whether we can meet your dietary needs.
This trip starts and finishes in different locations. It all begins when we meet at our hotel in Nara for our welcome dinner, and ends after breakfast at our hotel in Kanazawa. Both cities are readily accessible by train. In-country travel suggestions will be provided to registered trip participants.
Ichigo ichie "One time, one encounter" - Sen no Rikyū
What's Included:
12 nights in shared twin/ double accommodation (single supplements are limited)
2 nights exclusive traditional hot-springs ryokan
All entry tickets to the temples, shrines and castles as detailed
Private Zen and the Way of Tea experience with Zen monk, Seizan Toda
Private Nishiki Textile Koho Tatsumura Studio Visit
Calligraphy Workshop
Art Mounting Studio Visit
Washi Paper Making Workshop
Private Hisatsune Yuzen Silk Dying Workshop
All on-trip transportation using trains, taxis and private minibuses
Luggage transfer service from Nara to Kyoto
All meals - 12 breakfast, 10 lunches, 12 dinners
Water with all meals. Welcome and farewell drink at the start and end of our trip.
Pre - trip bulletins prior to departure with more detailed and specific information to help you prepare for your tour
What's Not Included:
International airfare and in-country travel pre- and post- trip
Personal expenses
Tips for trip leaders at your discretion
