LAND OF THE RISING SUN May 5 to 19, 2019 a program of the stanford alumni association
With dramatic coastlines dotted with sacred temples, celebrated gardens and cutting-edge architecture, the island nation of Japan is wonderfully suited for exploration by small ship. On one of our most popular voyages, we explore Japan aboard the intimate Caledonian Sky and venture beyond the major cities to call upon a fascinating variety of off-the-beaten-path locales, including historic towns, famous art centers and remote islands. Enrich the trip with a full menu of excursion options available during our cruise, as well as three optional post-trip extensions. Join Stanford faculty leader Thomas Fingar, MA 69, PhD 77, on this riveting and rewarding voyage in the Land of the Rising Sun! BRETT S. THOMPSON, 83, DIRECTOR, STANFORD TRAVEL/STUDY Highlights VIEW one of Japan s most celebrated landscape gardens in Kanazawa and a magical bamboo forest in Kyoto. DISCOVER the rural countryside of Shikoku Island and the taiko drum traditions and fishing hamlets of remote Sado Island. HEAR about the life and training of a geisha, attend a tea ceremony in Kanazawa and visit a master artist s kiln in Hagi. LEARN about the crafts and processes of Japan and South Korea, from traditional ceramics to the cultivation of exquisite pearls. COVER: MIYAJIMA ISLAND
Stanford Faculty Leader Thomas was a great asset to our Travel/Study trip always available and engaged and he obviously loves to teach. SANDRA MARY FIEDLER, BARBOUR, 73, NEW BANGKOK ZEALAND TO BY BALI, PRIVATE 2016 AIR, 2011 THOMAS FINGAR, MA 69, PHD 77, an adjunct professor at Stanford s Walter H. Shorenstein Asia-Pacific Research Center, also held a number of positions at Stanford between 1975 and 1986 before moving to the State Department as chief of the China Division. He headed the State Department s Office of Analysis for East Asia and the Pacific from 1989 to 1994. During the remainder of his 23-year career in Washington he had global portfolios (all countries) that included two appointments as Assistant Secretary of State for Intelligence and Research and positions with the National Intelligence Council. Fingar returned to Stanford in 2009. His lectures on this program will include such topics as Japan today, Japan and its neighbors and Japanese- U.S. relations. Oksenberg-Rohlen Distinguished Fellow, Freeman Spogli Institute for International Studies, 2010 2015 Deputy director, National Intelligence for Analysis, and director, National Intelligence Council, 2005 2008 Numerous U.S. State Department positions, 1986 2005 Editor, Uneasy Partnerships: China s Engagement with Japan, the Koreas, and Russia in the Era of Reform, Stanford University Press, 2017 BA, government and history, 1968, Cornell University MA, 1969, and PhD, 1977, political science, Stanford University Study Leaders In addition to Thomas Fingar, we will be joined by two literary scholars from Harvard Alumni Association Travels, Werner Sollors and Alide Cagidemetrio, as well as archaeologist Michelle Damian from the Archaeological Institute of America. SIGN UP ONLINE: alumni.stanford.edu/trip?japan2019 OR BY PHONE: (650) 725-1093
Sea of S OUTH K OREA Japan Sado Island J APAN Ulsan Hagi Miyajima Matsue Hiroshima Uwajima Osaka Kyoto Kobe Kanazawa Tokyo Otaru Sapporo Noboribetsu Hakodate Pacific Ocean KINKAKU-JI (GOLDEN Itinerary SUNDAY & MONDAY, MAY 5 & 6 DEPART U.S. / OSAKA, JAPAN / KYOTO Depart the U.S. on overnight flights to Osaka, crossing the international date line en route and arriving on Monday. Transfer to our hotel in Kyoto, ideally located in the heart of the city. Enjoy free time to explore the city center or join an optional tour of the Sanjusangendo temple, which contains 1,001 statues of Kannon, goddess of mercy. KYOTO HOTEL OKURA TUESDAY, MAY 7 KYOTO Today explore Tenryu-ji Temple and its lovely gardens and learn about Zen Buddhism. Then stroll through the adjacent Sagano Bamboo Grove, with its dense stands of tall green bamboo offering wonderful photographic opportunities. This evening enjoy a specially arranged presentation by a former geisha and a maiko (apprentice geisha) and join fellow travelers for a festive welcome reception and dinner. KYOTO HOTEL OKURA (B,L,D) WEDNESDAY, MAY 8 KYOTO / SHIGARAKI Travel this morning to the Miho Museum, built into a mountain slope near Shigaraki in Shiga prefecture and considered one of the master achievements of famed American architect I.M. Pei with its innovative skylights and windows that create a shifting pattern of light and shadow. Return to Kyoto for an afternoon visit to the UNESCO World Heritage-designated Kinkaku-ji (Temple of the Golden Pavilion), whose shimmering central pavilion is covered in bright gold leaf. The evening is at leisure, with organized dinner options available at an additional cost. KYOTO HOTEL OKURA (B,L) THURSDAY, MAY 9 KYOTO / NARA / KOBE / EMBARK Today head for the historic and beautiful city of Nara, capital of Japan for only 74 years (710 784), but during a significant time when Buddhism became firmly established within Japan. Some of the country s most magnificent temples and works of art were built and created here. Visit the UNESCO World Heritagedesignated Todai-ji, famous for its monolithic seated bronze statue of the Great Buddha. Also explore the wisteria-draped grounds of the Kasuga Taisha Shrine before continuing to Kobe where our ship awaits us. CALEDONIAN SKY (B,L,D) FRIDAY, MAY 10 AT SEA / HIROSHIMA Relax on board and admire the scenery as we cruise through Japan s Inland Sea, dotted with tiny islands. Call at Hiroshima this afternoon and visit the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, which documents the atomic explosion that ravaged the city in 1945. Today s thriving modern city is a testament to Japan s post-war recovery and resilience. Next, opt to visit either the historic Shukkei-en garden or take a tour of the Mazda Museum and the company s auto manufacturing facility. CALEDONIAN SKY (B,L,D) SATURDAY, MAY 11 MIYAJIMA Cruise to neighboring Miyajima Island, anchoring offshore and boarding Zodiacs to access the island. Visit the 6th-century Itsukushima Shinto Shrine with its iconic vermilion torii (gateway) that appears to float on the sea at high tide, and enjoy free time for hiking, visiting tiny temples and strolling the picturesque streets of the town. CALEDONIAN SKY (B,L,D) SUNDAY, MAY 12 UWAJIMA Make a call at Uwajima on Shikoku Island to visit some of Japan s rural countryside a landscape of fishing hamlets and farm villages nestled along rugged coastlines. Stop at a farm to observe how pearls are cultivated, see terraced fields rising in tiers up steep hillsides and explore a beautifully preserved merchant town that recalls Japan s traditional past. CALEDONIAN SKY (B,L,D) MONDAY, MAY 13 HAGI Learn about Japan s medieval heritage at Hagi with its wellpreserved samurai and merchant quarters and a ceramics tradition nearly 400 years old. Stop at the kiln of a master artisan to learn how the highly acclaimed Hagiyaki ceramics are made. Walk on the grounds of Toko-ji, where hundreds of moss-covered stone lanterns guard the historic graves of five Mori lords. Return to our ship and cruise across the Korea Strait overnight to South Korea. CALEDONIAN SKY (B,L,D) TUESDAY, MAY 14 ULSAN, SOUTH KOREA From the South Korean port of Ulsan, drive inland to the UNESCO World Heritage city of Gyeongju, ancient capital of the Silla Kingdom, which lasted for more than 1,000 years (57 B.C.E. 935 C.E.). Visit Bulguksa, one of South Korea s most beautiful Buddhist temples, with intricate paintings inside and out and a pair of 6th-century pagodas. After a lunch of Korean specialties and a performance
PAVILION), KYOTO TAIKO DRUMMING of Korean folkloric music, explore the royal tombs in Tumuli Park and visit the Gyeongju National Museum, devoted largely to Silla artifacts. CALEDONIAN SKY (B,L,D) WEDNESDAY, MAY 15 MATSUE, JAPAN After a morning crossing back across the Korea Strait, arrive at the port of Sakaiminato and drive to nearby charming Matsue for lunch. Continue with options to either visit one of the few surviving castles in Japan, built in 1611, or stroll through Matsue s historic samurai quarter and visit the Lafcadio Hearn Museum, named after a beloved 19th-century author from Ireland who wrote many books about Japan as Yakumo Kaizumi, the Japanese name he took after his naturalization. Drive through lush countryside to visit the Adachi Museum of Art that features a collection of contemporary Japanese works set in exquisite, highly manicured traditional gardens. CALEDONIAN SKY (B,L,D) THURSDAY, MAY 16 KANAZAWA Today call at the artistic center of Kanazawa to visit Kenrokuen, considered to be the finest landscape garden in Japan. Enjoy a tea ceremony at a classic teahouse and time at leisure to explore Kanazawa s historic neighborhoods, as well as artisan shops and museums dedicated to the city s renowned cultural pursuits, including silk dyeing, ceramics, and the production of gold leaf and lacquerware. CALEDONIAN SKY (B,L,D) FRIDAY, MAY 17 SADO ISLAND This morning visit remote Sado Island, home base for the taiko drumming group, Kodo ( heartbeat ). Attend a handson drumming workshop, a short performance by several of the resident drummers and a guest lecture on this ancient art form. Also take a guided walking tour through the picturesque fishing village of Shukunegi, where more than 100 traditional Edo-period houses line the narrow streets. Return to our ship for lunch on board and an afternoon of cruising. CALEDONIAN SKY (B,L,D) SATURDAY, MAY 18 HAKODATE Dock this morning in Hakodate on the south coast of the island of Hokkaido. Visit the local market featuring fresh seafood and other local specialties, and later take a cable car up Mount Hakodate Optional Post-trip Extensions MAY 19 TO 20 (1 NIGHT) I OTARU / SAPPORO Explore Otaru s beautifully preserved historic port and canal area, then transfer to Sapporo for a stroll through Moerenuma Park and a beer tasting at a local brewery. MAY 19 TO 22 (3 NIGHTS) II OTARU / SAPPORO / TOKYO Partake in the Otaru extension above, then fly directly to Tokyo for a two-night stay. Visit the Meiji Shrine, Nezu Museum, Imperial Palace Plaza, Sensō-ji Temple, the basement food floor of a Japanese department store and the new location of Tokyo s fish market. End with a nighttime panoramic bus tour. MAY 19 TO 23 (4 NIGHTS) III OTARU / NOBORIBETSU / SAPPORO Explore Otaru s beautifully preserved historic port and canal area, then stop at a whisky distillery for a tour and tasting before continuing to Noboribetsu s famous onsen (or hot springs), with its unique for panoramic views of the city and port. After our last afternoon of cruising, gather for a farewell reception and dinner on board our ship. CALEDONIAN SKY (B,L,D) SUNDAY, MAY 19 OTARU / DISEMBARK / U.S. Disembark this morning in Otaru on Hokkaido and transfer to Sapporo s New Chitose Airport for flights home, arriving back in the U.S. the same day, or join one of the optional post-tour extensions. (B) volcanic landscapes and therapeutic baths. Spend two nights in a modern ryokan hotel featuring Western-style beds and private hot spring baths in every room, and enjoy a day trip to Lake Toya. Conclude with two nights in Sapporo, with a full day to explore the city. Additional details and pricing for the optional extensions will be sent to confirmed participants.
SUN DECK STANDARD SUITE Caledonian Sky Program Cost * The Caledonian Sky is a 114-passenger premier expedition ship that was refurbished in 2012. Every cabin has an ocean view, en suite bathroom with walk-in shower and/or bathtub, spacious wardrobe or walk-in closet, safe, mini-bar, individually controlled air conditioner, flat-screen television and sitting area with sofa. Beds can be configured as one queen-sized bed or two twin beds. The ship s public amenities include a dining room, two lounges with bar service, small library and gym, sun deck with comfortable lounge chairs, hairdresser, laundry service and gift shop. An elevator services all passenger cabin decks. The Caledonian Sky s chefs prepare quality international meals, predominantly Western-style, served at a single open seating. A friendly crew provides exceptional personalized service, with more than a 1:2 crew-to-passenger ratio. The ship features advanced satellite navigation and communication equipment, roll stabilizers and a fleet of Zodiac landing craft for shore excursions. Rates are per person, based on double or single occupancy. DOUBLE SINGLE CATEGORY RATE RATE** A. STANDARD SUITE (FORWARD) $10,995 Castle Deck, 244 sq. ft. with 2 portholes, shower B. STANDARD SUITE $12,495 $18,795 Castle Deck, 244 sq. ft. with 2 4 portholes, shower C. SUPERIOR SUITE $13,995 $20,995 Caledonian Deck, 232 sq. ft. with large window, shower, bathtub (except #329, #330 and #331, shower only) D. PREMIUM SUITE $14,495 Promenade Deck, 217 sq. ft. with large window, shower (except #431 and #432, with bathtub, shower) E. DELUXE BALCONY SUITE $14,995 Bridge Deck, 215 sq. ft. plus 45-sq.-ft. private balcony, sliding glass door, walk-in wardrobe, bathtub, shower F. PREMIUM BALCONY SUITE $15,995 Promenade Deck, 217 sq. ft. plus 60-sq.-ft. private balcony, sliding glass door, walk-in wardrobe, shower G. OWNER S CORNER BALCONY SUITE $16,995 Promenade Deck, 243 sq. ft. plus 60-sq.-ft. private balcony, sliding glass door, 2 portholes, walk-in wardrobe, shower *Association nonmembers add $300 per person. **Single accommodations may be limited to as few as 4 cabins. Built: 1991 / Refurbished: 2012 / Weight: 4,200 tons / Length: 297 feet / Beam: 50 feet / Draft: 14 feet / Cruising Speed: 11 knots / Registry: Bahamas
Information Terms & Conditions DATES May 5 to 19, 2019 (15 days) SIZE This program can accommodate a total of 94 participants, including travelers from Stanford, Harvard, the Archaeological Institute of America and the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Single accommodations are extremely limited; please call for availability. INCLUDED 3 nights of deluxe hotel accommodations 10-night cruise aboard the Caledonian Sky 13 breakfasts, 12 lunches and 11 dinners Welcome and farewell receptions Gratuities to guides, drivers and ship crew for all group activities All tours and shore excursions as described in the itinerary Transfers and baggage handling on program arrival and departure days Port fees and embarkation taxes Minimal medical, accident and evacuation insurance Educational program with lecture series and pre-departure materials, including recommended reading list, a selected book, map and travel information Services of our professional tour manager to assist you throughout the program NOT INCLUDED International and U.S. domestic airfare Passport and visa fees Immunization costs Meals and beverages other than those specified as included Independent and private transfers Trip-cancellation/interruption and baggage insurance Excessbaggage charges Personal items such as internet access, telephone and fax calls, laundry and gratuities for nongroup services AIR ARRANGEMENTS You are responsible for booking and purchasing airfare to the start location and from the end location of the program. These air purchases are NOT included in the program cost. To assist you in making these independent arrangements, we will send you details with your confirmation materials on when to arrive and depart. WHAT TO EXPECT We consider this to be a moderately strenuous program that is at times physically demanding and busy. Participants must be physically fit, active and in good health. Daily excursions involve up to one mile of walking at a time, often on uneven terrain. In many instances such as in historic temples, elevators are unavailable, stairs may not have handrails and paths may be rocky or uneven. Participants will be required to remove shoes while visiting temples, shrines and several other sites. Participants should feel comfortable walking on a rocking ship and able to climb into and out of Zodiacs for one excursion ashore (there will be staff and crew members on hand to assist). We welcome travelers 15 years of age and older on this program. Deposit & Final Payment A $1,000-per-person deposit is required to reserve space for this program. A $200-per-person deposit is required to hold space for each of the optional post-trip extensions. Sign up online at alumni. stanford.edu/trip?japan2019 or call the Travel/Study office at (650) 725-1093. Final payment is due 120 days prior to departure. As a condition of participation, all confirmed participants are required to sign a Release of Liability. Cancellations & Refunds Deposits and any payments are refundable, less a $500-perperson cancellation fee, until 120 days prior to departure. After that date, refunds can be made only if the program is sold out and your place(s) can be resold, in which case a $1,000-per-person cancellation fee will apply. Insurance Stanford Travel/Study provides all travelers who are U.S. or Canadian citizens with minimal medical, accident and evacuation coverage under our group-travel insurance policy. Our group policy is intended to provide minimal levels of protection while you are traveling on this program. You may choose to subscribe to optional trip-cancellation and baggage insurance. Information will be provided to travelers with their welcome materials. The product offered includes special benefits if you purchase your policy within 14 days of written confirmation of your participation on the trip. Eligibility We encourage membership in the Stanford Alumni Association as the program cost for nonmembers is $300 more than the members price. A person traveling as a paid guest of a current member will not be charged the nonmember fee. To purchase a membership, visit alumni.stanford.edu/goto/ membership or call (650) 725-0692. Responsibility The Stanford Alumni Association, Stanford University and our operators act only as agents for the passenger with respect to transportation and ship arrangements and exercise every care possible in doing so. However, we can assume no liability for injury, damage, loss, accident, delay or irregularity in connection with the service of any automobile, motor coach, launch or any other conveyance used in carrying out this program or for the acts or defaults of any company or person engaged in conveying the passenger or in carrying out the arrangements of the program. We cannot accept any responsibility for losses or additional expenses due to delay or changes in air or other services, sickness, weather, strike, war, quarantine, force majeure or other causes beyond our control. All such losses or expenses will have to be borne by the passenger as tour rates provide arrangements only for the time stated. We reserve the right to make such alterations to this published itinerary as may be deemed necessary. The right is reserved to cancel any program prior to departure in which case the entire payment will be refunded without further obligation on our part. The right is also reserved to decline to accept or retain any person as a member of the program. No refund will be made for an unused portion of any tour unless arrangements are made in sufficient time to avoid penalties. Baggage is carried at the owner s risk entirely. It is understood that the ship s ticket, when issued, shall constitute the sole contract between the passenger and the cruise company. The airlines concerned are not to be held responsible for any act, omission or event during the time that passengers are not on board their plane or conveyance. Neither the Stanford Alumni Association, Stanford University nor our operators accept liability for any carrier s cancellation penalty incurred by the purchase of a nonrefundable ticket in connection with the tour. Program price is based on rates in effect in October 2018 and is subject to change without notice to reflect fluctuations in exchange rates, tariffs or fuel charges. TELEPHONE (650) 725-1093 EMAIL travelstudy@alumni.stanford.edu California Seller of Travel Program Registration #2048 523-50 COPYRIGHT 2018 STANFORD ALUMNI ASSOCIATION. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. PRINTED ON RECYCLED, FSC-CERTIFIED PAPER IN THE U.S.
LAND OF THE RISING SUN Stanford Travel/Study Frances C. Arrillaga Alumni Center 326 Galvez Street Stanford, CA 94305-6105 (650) 725-1093 Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Stanford Alumni Association May 5 to 19, 2019 alumni.stanford.edu/goto/travelstudy The excellence of the lectures, the careful planning and execution of the details, the Caledonian Sky and crew it all added up to our trip of a lifetime. BARBARA RILEY, 53, JAPAN BY SEA, 2013