Tokyo, Japan

Traditions of Japan

Bonsai, Kimonos, Calligraphy and Origami Appreciate the beauty of Japanese traditions with a visit to a bonsai museum and exploration of various arts. Bonsai is the 1,000-year-old art of cultivating small trees that mimic the shape and scale of full-size trees. Travel to the Shunkaen Bonsai Museum, founded by renowned bonsai artist Kunio Kobayashi. This living museum displays a collection of 2,000 bonsai-related artifacts, including several 500-year-old bonsai. After your visit, continue your discovery of Japanese culture. Try on a kimono, a traditional garment now worn only on special occasions, or practice the ancient art of calligraphy with brush and sumi (ink). You can also try your hand at origami, mastering the basics of folding paper into intricate shapes or animals such as paper cranes. After your cultural immersion, you will board your motor coach and return to your awaiting ship. * Moderate - Walking portions may be long and somewhat challenging with occasional step-ups, stairs and inclines. Total time walking or standing normally ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours.