DOCSLIB.ORG

Japan: Castles, Armor & the Art of the Samurai

Total Page：16

File Type：pdf, Size：1020Kb

Download full-text PDF Read full-text

Load more

MUSEUM TRAVEL ALLIANCE Japan: Castles, Armor & the Art of the Samurai May 30–June 9, 2019 MUSEUM TRAVEL ALLIANCE Dear Travelers and Friends, Japan has one of the oldest, richest, and most complex aesthetic traditions in the world– a tradition that is inextricably connected to the legacy of the samurai. Join the Museum Travel Alliance for a journey that explores the history, spiritual practices, and warrior arts of Japan. As we travel together, we will visit castles, museums, and temples that tell a fascinating story of Japanese military, political, and artistic history. We begin in Tokyo, where we discover the still-vital world of traditional swordsmithing with a visit to the studio of a master sword polisher. We also get an inside look at two authentic Japanese martial arts, sumo and kendo, as we tour training centers to observe practice drills and discuss these rich traditions with senseis and practitioners. Explorations of nearby temples will reveal connections between spiritual practice and martial and aesthetic traditions, and visits to museums will provide numerous opportunities to experience the spectacular creations of Japanese artists throughout the centuries. In Kyoto, we visit ancient Zen temples and Shinto shrines, set off by the natural beauty of mountains, foothills, and forests. This journey from Tokyo to KyotoRUSSIA will reveal some of the most astounding works of art, architecture, and arms and armor on Earth. Throughout this trip, led by a curator who is an authority in arms and armor, you will meet talented craftspeople and experts in the arts. And you will enjoy traveling in the congenial company of members from a number of museums and cultural institutions. Sincerely, CHINA Jim Friedlander President, Museum Travel Alliance Pacific Teshima HIGHLIGHTS Ocean GO behind the scenes with a master sword polisher and maker OBSERVE the morning ritual training of sumo wrestlers on an intimate visit Sea of Nikko Japan Tokyo stunning Kokoen Garden, comprising DISCOVER Kamakura nine different walled gardens and featuring waterfalls, JAPAN koi ponds, running streams, and reconstructions of Edo- period samurai mansions Kyoto Himeji Nara ENJOY a quintessentially Japanese experience aboard Osaka the Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo to Kyoto WITNESS a kendo demonstration at the country’s oldest martial arts center PARTICIPATE in a tea ceremony at the temple founded by the monk who introduced Zen Buddhism East China to Japan Sea Japan: Castles, Armor & the Art of the Samurai May 30–June 9, 2019 sword makers such as Nobuyoshi, Rai, and Taima, and includes sword fittings, armor, and historical documents. Spend the balance of the day exploring the famous Ginza district. Dinner is at leisure. B,L MONDAY, JUNE 3: TOKYO / KAMAKURA / TOKYO Following breakfast, transfer to Kamakura, the former de facto capital of Japan and the seat of the 13th-century shogunate. First visit Kotoku-in Temple to view the Daibutsu, the second largest bronze Buddha in Japan. Continue to Engaku-ji, an important Zen temple, and to Hachimangu, a shrine dedicated to the Shinto god of samurai. Of the Five Great Zen Temples in Kamakura, RUSSIA visit Kencho-jis, which is ranked first and considered the oldest. B,L TUESDAY, JUNE 4: TOKYO / KYOTO Witness a morning training session by practitioners of Ceremony at the Kasuga Shrine, Nara, photo by Duane Moore Japan’s national sport, sumo, on a private visit. Then board the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Kyoto. Upon CHINA arrival, discover the magnificent Sanjusangendo Temple, An optional prelude in Tokyo is offered May 28-31, 2019. constructed in 1164. It is known for its Hall of Thirty- Three Bays, a long wooden structure housing 1,001 large THURSDAY, MAY 30: DEPARTURE wooden statues of Kannon, the Goddess of Mercy. Before Depart on a flight to Tokyo, Japan. dinner attend a private taiko (drumming) ceremony. B,L,D FRIDAY,Teshim MAYa 31: TOKYO, JAPAN Pacific Upon arrival this afternoon, transfer to the Conrad Hotel. WEDNESDAY, JUNE 5: KYOTO / NARA / KYOTO Ocean The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure. In the early Transfer to Nara for a full-day exploration of the area. evening, enjoy a welcome dinner at the hotel. D Visit Kasuga Shrine to admire the National Treasure and Important Cultural Property-class swords and armor SATURDAY, JUNE 1: TOKYO / NIKKO / TOKYO displayed in the shrine’s treasure house. After lunch, Depart Tokyo for a full-day excursion to the prefecture of visit the studio of master sword maker Sadatoshi Gassan Nikko, birthplace of Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa (pending schedule). Return to Kyoto to spend the Sea of Nikko shogunate. Visit Toshogu, Ieyasu’s lavishly decorated remainder of the day at leisure. B,L Japan Tokyo Shinto shrine and mausoleum. Tour Futarasan Shrine, Kamakura founded in the 8th century by the monk who introduced JAPAN Buddhism to Nikko and home to Japan’s longest sword. Also visit the temple of Rinno-ji to view magnificent Kyoto wooden statues of local mountain deities. Return to Tokyo Himeji Nara in the late afternoon. B,L,D Osaka SUNDAY, JUNE 2: TOKYO Begin the day with a lecture, followed by a visit to the workshop of sword polisher Tatsuya Fujishiro (pending schedule), who will provide an exclusive demonstration of the art of sword polishing and instruct guests in the viewing and handling of Japanese blades. After lunch, visit East China the Japanese Sword Museum, which honors renowned Sea Shinkansen, photo by Richard Fisher ACCOMMODATIONS THURSDAY, JUNE 6: KYOTO Visit the rock garden at the Zen temple complex of CONRAD TOKYO HOTEL Ryoan-ji and the UNESCO-recognized site of Kinkaku-ji. Contemporary luxury hotel located near the Ginza district After lunch, enjoy a specially arranged visit to Byōdō’in, with expansive views of the city’s dramatic skyline. Dining National Treasure and UNESCO World Heritage Site. options include several restaurants featuring modern Discover the unique Shinto shrine of Fushimi Inari, Japanese and French cuisine as well as an elegant bar and composed of thousands of vermilion Torii gates, and visit lounge. Amenities include a spa, fitness center offering yoga classes, sauna and steam rooms, and an indoor Kennin-ji, founded by the Buddhist monk who introduced swimming pool. both Zen Buddhism and tea cultivation to Japan. Take in a tea ceremony followed by some independent HYATT REGENCY KYOTO exploration—perhaps in the well-known geisha districts of A five-star luxury hotel, the Hyatt Regency is located in the Pontocho or Gion. B,L historic heart of Kyoto, close to the main city landmarks and the Gion district. FRIDAY, JUNE 7: KYOTO Explore Nijo Castle, a UNESCO-listed masterpiece from IMPERIAL HOTEL OSAKA the feudal era, before visiting the Kyoto National Museum The Imperial Hotel is centrally located in downtown Osaka to view its treasures of Japanese art and history. Founded overlooking the picturesque Okawa River. Facilities include in 1897, it is housed in a building designed by Taniguchi a spa and fitness center, swimming pool, and an array of Yoshio, also known for his redesign of New York’s Museum restaurants and cafés featuring various cuisines. of Modern Art. Continue to lively Nishiki Market for lunch at leisure. In the afternoon, head to the foothills of the Higashiyama mountains to visit the Nanzen-ji Temple complex, one of the most important Zen temples in Japan. Attend a demonstration of the traditional martial art of kendo at the Butokuden, Japan’s oldest martial arts center. Our farewell dinner is this evening. B,D SATURDAY, JUNE 8: KYOTO / HIMEJI / OSAKA Depart for the city of Himeji, home to Japan’s most famous fortress: the dazzling white Himeji Castle. Following lunch, stroll in the adjacent Kokoen Garden, comprising nine different gardens, before transferring to Osaka and the Imperial Hotel Osaka. Dinner is at leisure. B,L SUNDAY, JUNE 9: OSAKA / RETURN After breakfast, transfer to the airport for flights home. B Conrad Tokyo Hotel DISCLAIMER: The itinerary is subject to change at the discretion of The Museum Travel Alliance. For complete PROGRAM RATE details, please carefully read the terms and conditions at $12,399 per person, double occupancy https://museumtravelalliance.com/faq.php $14,499 single rate RATE INCLUDES n Nine nights accommodations as per itinerary n Meals as indicated in the itinerary (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner); bottled water, local beer, and coffee/tea with all meals; house wine at dinners n Airport/hotel/airport group transfers for all participants on suggested flights n Escorted sightseeing by private motor coach; entrance fees for included visits n Enrichment program of lectures and special events n Taxes, service, and porterage charges; gratuities to local guides and drivers NOT INCLUDED IN RATE International airfare; passport/visa fees; meals not specified; alcoholic beverages other than noted in inclusions; personal items and expenses; airport transfers other than for those on suggested flights; excess baggage; optional prelude in Tokyo; trip insurance; any other items not specifically mentioned as included. Futarasan Shrine, Toshogu, Tokyo, photo by Patrick Nosbaum Torii gates, Shinto shrine, Kyoto, photo by Jon Curnow THE MUSEUM TRAVEL ALLIANCE JAPAN: CASTLES, ARMOR & THE ART OF THE SAMURAI n MAY 30–JUNE 9, 2019 RESERVATION FORM To reserve a place, please call The Museum Travel Alliance at 212-324-1893 or 855-533-0033, fax: 212-344-7493; or complete and return this form with your deposit of $1,000 per person (of which $500 is non-refundable for administrative fees) payable
Recommended publications
  • Himeji Castle, Hyōgo

    Himeji Castle, Hyōgo

    Himeji Castle, Hyōgo Location: Hyōgo Prefecture Date: Original construction dates from 1333, but the current structure was built between 1580-1610 Patron: Toyotomi Hideyoshi and enlarged c 1610 by Ikeda Terumasa. Scale: 140m (east-west axis) x 125m (north-south axis). 91m above sea level. Stone wall of the main keep 15m high; the main keep is 31.5m high. There are 27 towers, 11 wells and 21 gates. Scope of work: WAR; Architecture beyond the European tradition. Materials: primarily wood and stone Style/Period: Renritsu/Azuchi–Momoyama Art History in Schools CIO | Registered Charity No. 1164651 | www.arthistoryinschools.org.uk Himeji Castle, Hyōgo Introduction Japan’s most magnificent castle, a Unesco World Heritage Site and one of only a handful of original castles remaining. Nicknamed the ‘White Egret Castle’ for its spectacular white exterior and striking shape emerging from the plain. Himeji is a hill castle, that takes advantage of the surrounding geography to enhance its defensive qualities. There are three moats to obstruct the enemy and 15m sloping stone walls make approaching the base of the castle very difficult. Formal elements Viewed externally, there is a five-storey main tenshu (keep) and three smaller keeps, all surrounded by moats and defensive walls. These walls are punctuated with rectangular openings (‘sama’) for firing arrows and circular and triangular openings for guns. These ‘sama’ are at different heights to allow for the warrior to be standing, kneeling or lying down. The main keep’s walls also feature narrow openings that allowed defenders to pour boiling water or oil on to anyone trying to scale the walls.
  • Geography & Climate

    Geography & Climate

    Web Japan http://web-japan.org/ GEOGRAPHY AND CLIMATE A country of diverse topography and climate characterized by peninsulas and inlets and Geography offshore islands (like the Goto archipelago and the islands of Tsushima and Iki, which are part of that prefecture). There are also A Pacific Island Country accidented areas of the coast with many Japan is an island country forming an arc in inlets and steep cliffs caused by the the Pacific Ocean to the east of the Asian submersion of part of the former coastline due continent. The land comprises four large to changes in the Earth’s crust. islands named (in decreasing order of size) A warm ocean current known as the Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu, and Shikoku, Kuroshio (or Japan Current) flows together with many smaller islands. The northeastward along the southern part of the Pacific Ocean lies to the east while the Sea of Japanese archipelago, and a branch of it, Japan and the East China Sea separate known as the Tsushima Current, flows into Japan from the Asian continent. the Sea of Japan along the west side of the In terms of latitude, Japan coincides country. From the north, a cold current known approximately with the Mediterranean Sea as the Oyashio (or Chishima Current) flows and with the city of Los Angeles in North south along Japan’s east coast, and a branch America. Paris and London have latitudes of it, called the Liman Current, enters the Sea somewhat to the north of the northern tip of of Japan from the north. The mixing of these Hokkaido.

  • Inland Sea of Ja An

    Ancient traditions of the Inland Sea of Ja an Kyoto ◆ Hiroshima ◆ Miyajima ◆ Matsue ◆ Himeji ◆ Osaka A voyage aboard the Exclusively Chartered Small Ship Five-Star M.S. L’AUSTRAL April 30 to May 10, 2017 Dear Bryn Mawr Alumnae/i and Friends, Konnichiwa! Experience the timeless splendor of Japan and South Korea by sea and on land, the best way to see the richness of this beautiful region. During this custom-designed nine-night itinerary enjoy two nights on land and seven nights cruising while you explore enthralling ports steeped in the traditions of ancient Buddhist shoguns and Samurai warriors, and admire landscapes dotted with Shinto shrines, imperial castles and meticulous Japanese gardens. Spend two nights in the enchanting city of Kyoto, its serene landscape brimming with fragrant cherry blossom trees. It was the imperial capital of Japan from A.D. 794 until the mid-19th century and has been the cultural capital of this island nation for more than 1000 years. See its historic UNESCO World Heritage-designated monuments, visit the opulent temples of Ry ¯oan-ji and Kinkaku-ji, the imperial Nij ¯o Castle and stroll through the iconic red-orange torii gates and temple grounds of the Fushimi Inari Shrine. On board the exclusively chartered, Five-Star small ship M.S. L’AUSTRAL, featuring only 110 ocean-view Suites and Staterooms, cruise for seven nights from Himeji, Japan, along the coast of the tranquil Inland Sea and South Korea, and visit captivating port calls that showcase fi ve UNESCO World Heritage sites. See the impressive 14th-century Himeji Castle complex, the oldest surviving feudal structure of medieval Japan; walk through the poignant Peace Memorial Park and Museum in Hiroshima following President Obama’s recent historic visit; and tour picturesque Itsukushima Shrine in Miyajima with its awe-inspiring Great Torii Gate.
  • Himeji Castle 1601-09 1333-46, Then Rebuilt 1601-09, with Additional Fortifications 1617-19

    Himeji Castle 1601-09 1333-46, Then Rebuilt 1601-09, with Additional Fortifications 1617-19

    Himeji Castle 1601-09 1333-46, then rebuilt 1601-09, with additional fortifications 1617-19 Key Facts: • In a nutshell: practical defensive castle offering complex systems of defence in depth • Site: Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan • Size: 31m high, 140m long, 125m wide, on a 45m natural hill. • Materials: stone podium; clay, sand and rice glue walls; tiled roof • UNESCO World Cultural and Heritage Site. 1. ART HISTORICAL TERMS AND CONCEPTS The castle at Himeji is an iconic image of Japan and one of the finest examples of fortress architecture in the world. It stands at the centre of Himeji city, a strategic point along the route to the western provinces of Honshu (the main island of Japan). The castle was built atop a natural 45-meter hill called Himeyama, and its main donjon (tower) rises an additional 31 meters including a 15 metre stone foundation. It is a highly efficient and practical military machine offering complex systems of defence in depth. www.arthistoryinschools.org.uk © 2018 Art History in Schools CIO | Registered Charity No. 116451 arthistoryinschools @ahischarity @arthistoryinschools Cruickshank writes “..as with so much essentially functional Japanese architecture, the hill-top fortress possesses a delicacy of detail, fineness of form, and picturesqueness of profile that, from a distance, makes it look more like a fairy-tale palace.”1 From afar, the graceful rooflines of its white towers resemble a flock of herons in flight, suggesting the castle's proper name—"Egret Castle" (Shirasagi). The castle was first completed in 1346 but when the Shogun Togukawa rose to power in 1600 following the battle of Sekigahara, he rewarded his son-in-law Ikeda Terumasa (1564-1613) with the fiefdom of Harima (modern-day Hyogo prefecture) and the castle was completely rebuilt and enlarged between 1601 and 1609.
  • The Tohoku Traveler Was Created As a Public Service for the Members of the Misawa Community

    The Tohoku Traveler Was Created As a Public Service for the Members of the Misawa Community

    TOHOKUTOHOKU TRAVELERTRAVELER “.....each day is a journey, and the journey itself home” Basho 1997 TOHOKU TRAVELER STAFF It is important to first acknowledge the members of the Yokota Officers’ Spouses’ Club and anyone else associated with the publication of their original “Travelogue.” Considerable information in Misawa Air Base’s “Tohoku Traveler” is based on that publication. Some of these individuals are: P.W. Edwards Pat Nolan Teresa Negley V.L. Paulson-Cody Diana Hall Edie Leavengood D. Lyell Cheryl Raggia Leda Marshall Melody Hostetler Vicki Collins However, an even amount of credit must also be given to the many volunteers and Misawa Air Base Family Support Flight staff members. Their numerous articles and assistance were instrumental in creating Misawa Air Base’s regionally unique “Tohoku Traveler.” They are: EDITING/COORDINATING STAFF Tohoku Traveler Coordinator Mark Johnson Editors Debra Haas, Dottie Trevelyan, Julie Johnson Layout Staff Laurel Vincent, Sandi Snyder, Mark Johnson Photo Manager/Support Mark Johnson, Cherie Thurlby, Keith Dodson, Amber Jordon Technical Support Brian Orban, Donna Sellers Cover Art Wendy White Computer Specialist Laurel Vincent, Kristen Howell Publisher Family Support Flight, Misawa Air Base, APO AP 96319 Printer U.S. Army Printing and Publication Center, Korea WRITERS Becky Stamper Helen Sudbecks Laurel Vincent Marion Speranzo Debra Haas Lisa Anderson Jennifer Boritski Dottie Trevelyan Corren Van Dyke Julie Johnson Sandra Snyder Mark Johnson Anne Bowers Deborah Wajdowicz Karen Boerman Satoko Duncan James Gibbons Jody Rhone Stacy Hillsgrove Yuriko Thiem Wanda Giles Tom Zabel Hiraku Maita Larry Fuller Joe Johnson Special Note: The Misawa Family Support Flight would like to thank the 35 th Services Squadron’s Travel Time office for allowing the use of material in its “Tohoku Guide” while creating this publication.
  • 2021 Cherry Blossoms°

    2021 Cherry Blossoms°

    © tropicalife.net 2021 CHERRY BLOSSOMS° GUARANTEED! ULTIMATE TOKAIDO ROAD RISK FREE! WITH MIYAJIMA & HIROSHIMA TOUR #1 Cancel for Any Reason by 10/30/20! Luxury hot spring onsen experience with gourmet Kaiseki Dinners No Penalties & No Cancellation Fees! in Hakone & Miyajima! Travel to Tokyo and return from Osaka! 9 Nights / 11 Days • 19 Meals (9 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 4 Dinners) • Escorted from Honolulu COMPLETE English-Speaking Local Guide • April 02 – 12, 2021 • Tour Manager: Lana Ige PACKAGES! Includes Roundtrip Airfare from Honolulu, 9 Nights Hotel, 19 Meals, Tips for Local Tour OVERVIEW: Guides and Bus Drivers, All Taxes & Fees The Tokaido (East Sea Road) was the most important of the Five Routes of the Edo period — connecting Edo (modern-day Tokyo) to Kyoto in Japan. Unlike the inland and less heavily traveled Nakasendo, the Tokaido traveled along the sea coast of eastern Honshu, hence the route’s name. DELTA COACH SEATING $4888* VISIT: DELTA COMFORT+® SEATING Tokyo • Mt. Fuji • Hakone • Miyajima • Hiroshima • Okayama • Kurashiki • Himeji • Kyoto • Nara • Osaka $5288* In addition to up to 3" of extra legroom, Delta Comfort+® seating offers a dedicated overhead bin TOUR HIGHLIGHTS: space just for your items. With Delta Comfort+® Meiji Shrine • Asakusa Sensoji Temple • Nakamise Shopping • Ameyoko Shopping • Mt. Fuji • Lake Ashi Cruise you’re invited to board early so that you can settle Hakone Ropeway • Shinkansen Bullet Train Ride • Ferry to Miyajima Island • Itsukushima Shrine in and enjoy the ride. Peace Memorial Park • A-Bomb Museum • A-Bomb Dome • Children’s Memorial • Kurashiki Bikan-Area Himeji Castle • Kiyomizu Temple • Heian Jingu Shrine • Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion) Fushimi Inari Shrine • Todaiji Temple • Nara Deer Park • AEON Mall HANDS-ON ACTIVITIES: Sushi-Making Class • Yuzen Table Mat Dyeing • Japanese Tea Ceremony DELTA ONE® UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITES: BUSINESS CLASS SEATING Mt.
  • Study of Japanese Sword from a Viewpoint of Steel Strength

    Study of Japanese Sword from a Viewpoint of Steel Strength

    G Model JALCOM-26946; No. of Pages 5 ARTICLE IN PRESS Journal of Alloys and Compounds xxx (2012) xxx–xxx Contents lists available at SciVerse ScienceDirect Journal of Alloys and Compounds jou rnal homepage: www.elsevier.com/locate/jallcom Study of Japanese sword from a viewpoint of steel strength a,∗ a a b b Muneo Yaso , Toshifumi Takaiwa , Yoshihiro Minagi , Tsuyoshi Kanaizumi , Kunichika Kubota , c c c Taisuke Hayashi , Shigekazu Morito , Takuya Ohba a Wakoh Museum, Japan b Hitachi Metals, Ltd., Yasugi Works, Metallurgical Research Laboratory, Japan c Shimane University, Japan a r t i c l e i n f o a b s t r a c t Article history: Two Japanese swords produced by 70 years ago and 600 years ago were investigated. Four-point bending Received 30 September 2011 test has been performed to estimate the strength of sharp edge of Japanese sword for the first time. Received in revised form 19 June 2012 The strength of sharp edge with fine lath martensite microstructure was evaluated, taking the specimen Accepted 21 June 2012 geometry of bending test into consideration. The strength of modern sword is estimated as high as Available online xxx approximately 4500 MPa (by four point bend test) and is considered to be a great value along with high hardness, which is comparable with the value of high performance tool steels. The fracture surface showed Keywords: that the crack propagation behavior is smooth around sharp edge and ductile like the zigzag morphology Japanese sword from wavy pattern region into the core region. Lath martensite © 2012 Elsevier B.V.
  • The Future of Japan's Tourism

    The Future of Japan's Tourism

    The future of Japan’s tourism: Path for sustainable growth towards 2020 McKinsey Japan and Travel, Transport and Logistics Practice October 2016 Authored by: André Andonian Tasuku Kuwabara Naomi Yamakawa Ryo Ishida Cover image: The famous torii gate of the Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima. The future of Japan’s tourism: Path for sustainable growth towards 2020 Preface Japan's tourism industry is on the verge of becoming a major economic engine for the country. In 2020, Japan will host the Olympic and Paralympic Games and enjoy a global platform for its people, culture, and landmarks. Recently, tourism has been positioned as an engine to solve social challenges in Japan and support economic growth. The March 2015 McKinsey Global Institute report, The Future of Japan: Reigniting Productivity and Growth, described how Japan has the potential to more than double its annual GDP growth, to 3 percent, by increasing productivity. This insight is also applicable to tourism, and this report investigates the challenges and potential impact of several initiatives aimed at addressing obstacles to realizing its inbound tourism goals. This report is the result of collaboration between McKinsey’s Japan office and the firm’s global Travel, Transport and Logistics Practice. The research team consisted of Shogo Akimoto, Shohei Ishigami, Minami Maeda, and Yusuke Shimada. We are grateful for the advice and input of many McKinsey colleagues, including Urs Binggeli, Alex Dichter, Masahiro Komatsubara, Diaan-Yi Lin, and Cheryl SH Lim, all of whom provided insight on travel and tourism. For advice on retail and digital, we relied on Tomohiko Funaishi, Ken Kajii, Paul McInerney, and Okaryo Sho.
  • MUSEUMS and ART GALLERIES PAGE 1 / 10

    MUSEUMS and ART GALLERIES PAGE 1 / 10

    MUSEUMS and ART GALLERIES PAGE 1 / 10 PG-801 MUSEUMS and ART 10th Fl., Tokyo Kotsu Kaikan Bldg., 2-10-1, Yurakucho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-0006 GALLERIES Tel. (03)3201-3331 In Japan, there are more than 1,500 museums and art galleries Notes: and their numbers are increasing year by year. 1) Admission fees will be higher than indicated when special exhibi- The present leaflet, however, mainly introduces those found tions are held. in and around such major tourist centers as Tokyo, Kyoto and 2) The museums are closed temporarily during changes of exhibi- Osaka, which are easily accessible to visitors. Regarding similar tions. institutions in other districts, only those comparatively well 3) The museums are generally closed from Dec. 28 to Jan. 4. favored by visitors from abroad have been listed. 4) “Open:” shows opening hour and closing hour, but ticket win- Listed are art galleries, folk history museums, treasure houses dows are usually closed 30 minutes before closing time. and folk art museums. Major science museums and those of a 5) At most museums, identification labels for objects and pam- unique nature are also introduced. phlets are written in Japanese. These institutions are arranged geographically from north to 6) Telephone numbers in parentheses are the area codes for long- south and are classified roughly by district and city according to distance calls. their location. 7) Mon. (Tue)* = Closed on Mon. however, when Mon. falls on a The information contained in this leaflet is based on current national holiday, the museum is open and it is closed on the fol- data as of July 2007.
  • Himeji/Hiroshima

    Himeji/Hiroshima

    歴 史 REKISHI Introductory tour for anyone visiting Japan for the rst time Fully Escorted Tour Package Golden Route of Japan Japan is an intriguing mix of opposites-old and new as well as east and west. Being one of the most modern of countries, it retains at the same time its ancient traditions and an awareness with Hiroshima of thousands of years of history. “The Golden Route of Japan with Hiroshima” includes all must see sights and experiences between Tokyo and Osaka, Hiroshima. With centrally located rst class hotels in each city and a Ryokan stay experience; this is a trip you will never forget. Prices are per person, land only based on double $2,798 occupancy. (Single Supplement USD 780) Please visit our website for more information. CST 2045303-40 Fully Escorted Tour Package ...............................................................Golden Route............................................................... of Japan with Hiroshima.......................................... Perfect Itinerary in perfect weather. All must see sights in one itinerary, Megalopolis of Tokyo to Hiroshima via Mt. Fuji, Hakone National Park, Nara and Kyoto, ancient capitol of Japan. Your experience includes Bullet train, Green Tea Ceremony, Sumida River Cruise, Ninja show and more. This is the perfect itinerary for people wanting to see everything in limit- ed time. ........................................................................................................................................................................ Includes 7 nights Accommodations

  • Of Japan of Japan

    ANCIENT TRADITIONS OF THE INLAND SEA OF JAPAN Kyoto u Hiroshima u Miyajima u Matsue u Himeji u Osaka including Gyeongju, South Korea Aboard the Exclusively Chartered Small Ship Five-Star Le Soléal May 19 to 30, 2020 Dear Northwestern University alumni and friends, From the ethereal temples, jewel box pagodas and shogun castles of Kyoto, to the latticed merchant houses of Hagi’s samurai district, Japan’s ancient cities hold an enigmatic fusion of spiritual symbolism mixed with Eastern and Western cultural influences. This unique, custom‑designed 10‑night itinerary provides unparalleled access to the region’s vast architectural riches, bountiful landscapes and venerable heritage. Spend three nights in Japan’s spiritual and cultural capital, Kyoto, home to a sublime concentration of UNESCO World Heritage‑designated historic monuments, including the celebrated temples of Kiyomizu‑dera, Ryoan‑ji and Kinkaku‑ji and the imposing Nijo Castle. Cruise for seven nights along the tranquil coast of the Inland Sea and to South Korea on board the exclusively chartered, Five‑Star small ship Le Soléal—featuring only 110 ocean‑view Suites and Staterooms. Enjoy excursions to seven UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the 17th‑century Himeji Castle, Japan’s largest surviving feudal complex; Hiroshima’s poignant Genbaku Dome Peace Memorial; Miyajima’s Itsukushima Shrine; and in Gyeongju, South Korea, the ancient Silla Kingdom Royal Burial Mounds and the glorious Bulguksa Temple, the embodiment of Buddhist utopia on Earth. Experience Japan’s spiritual engagement with nature, which finds expression in a panoply of luxuriant strolling gardens where the sense of calm is absolute.
  • Japanese Swords As Symbols of Historical Amnesia: Touken Ranbu and the Sword Boom in Popular Media

    Japanese Swords As Symbols of Historical Amnesia: Touken Ranbu and the Sword Boom in Popular Media

    Volume 19 | Issue 7 | Number 1 | Article ID 5564 | Apr 01, 2021 The Asia-Pacific Journal | Japan Focus Japanese Swords as Symbols of Historical Amnesia: Touken Ranbu and the Sword Boom in Popular Media Kohki Watabe Abstract: This essay analyses the Japanese revisionism, nationalism, symbolism of sword boom in popular media in the 21st Japanese swords, Touken Ranbu century, situating Touken Ranbu, an online video game franchise, within its wider political and historical context. In the first two decades of the 21st century, government, commercial, Introduction and semi-public institutions, such as museums, extensively deployed positive depictions of In the 2010s, Japan's media culture witnessed a Japanese swords in popular media, including phenomenon that could be termed a Japanese anime, manga, TV, and films in public relations sword boom, evident in forms from manga and campaigns. As a historical ideological icon, anime to video games and films. The swords have been used to signify class in the transmedia popularity of sword iconography Edo period (1603-1868) and to justify the has influenced public relations strategies of Japanese Empire’s expansion into Asia during companies and governments and encouraged the Asia-Pacific War (1931-1945). Bycollaborations among public and private emphasizing the object's symbolism andsectors. Arguably, the most notable example of aestheticism, the sword boom of the 21st this phenomenon is a video game called Touken century is following a similar trajectory. Ranbu and its transmedia franchise. Taken Popular representations of swords in media together, these trends represent a fascination culture selectively feature historical episodes with the trope of the sword: some that are deemed politically uncontroversial and representations are historically grounded while beneficial for promoting a sense of national others are radically decontextualized; some pride.