|
Tea
and Japan have been inextricably linked for over 1300 years. Beginning as a
component in Buddhist rituals and then eagerly adopted by the elite classes,
today tea is an essential part of daily life. On this extraordinary
adventure, experience for yourself the colorful and storied history of tea.
With expert guidance from top Japanese tea authorities, visit lavish palaces
and humble temples, ancient historic sites and modern cities,
serene tea gardens and bustling tea factories and
tastes dozens of exquisite teas at the peak of the season.
A few of the special highlights include:
seeing the breath-taking cherry blossoms; Tokyo's Imperial Palace and
gardens; intensive training in the Japanese tea
ceremony; scenic lake cruise; Sen Cha tea gardens and tea factories of
Shizuoka where you can pick your own tea; indulge in special tea meals and
attend focused lectures on tea history culture and production. Socialize
with some of the influential people in the tea industry at exclusive
meetings. Visit the World Tea Museum. Study the intricate
process
of Gyokuro tea making from start to finish. And of course, explore the
stores on Tokyo's main shopping street - the Ginza.
Kyoto is one of the most beautiful cities
in Japan and there we will experience the spirit of the old days. Discover
the ancient art of pottery making in a potter's workshop, rest in a
traditional Ryokan (guest house), dine on the elaborate Kaiseki tea ceremony
meal, wander through sacred temples and study Zen meditation, relax in a
traditional tea house and be dazzled by the Golden
Pavilion. Pay a special visit to the oldest tea garden in all
of
Japan. In the famous tea town of Uji see how Mat Cha
tea is made and taste different examples of freshly made tea. Make a stop
at the ancient kiln to witness the history of Japanese ceramics.
Journey to lively Osaka and take in the
renowned performance of the Buraku - life sized
puppets, famed Osaka Castle and learn its connection to Japanese tea.
Explore
the markets around the Shitennoji Temple - the cradle of Japanese Buddhism.
On the exciting Korea post-tour extension,
discover the story of Korean tea culture. Little known to the West, the art
of Korean tea has just as long and colorful a history as that
of Japan. After a tour of contemporary Seoul, enjoy a feast for the palate
as well as the spirit at a special 16 course dinner including a vibrant
folk-dancing performance. Observe the formal Korean Tea Ceremony on a visit
to an authentic tea house. Learn from the masters at the Icheon pottery
village and make your own tea bowl. Tour the sprawling Boseong tea gardens
and factories with a guided tea tasting. Attend a lecture on Korean tea
history and then bask in luxury at a sea-side tea spa.
This eleven day tour is packed full
of exciting, interesting, and authentic experiences. With the exhilarating
four day Korea post-tour extension, delight in even more memorable
experiences. The exciting itinerary is sure
to delight both novice and experienced tea professional, providing
special memories that will last a lifetime. Due to the unique nature of this tour,
space
is limited, so please make your reservations early.
|