OVERVIEW            

Japan is a country rich is artistic and cultural heritage and on this day tour you will be immersed some defining elements of these. Take an Aikido lesson, a martial art developed in order for practitioners to defend themselves while also protecting their attacker from injury. Take a Japanese calligraphy lesson before enjoying a stint at a sword museum, where you will learn about the significance of these weapons in a historical and spiritual context. Head into commercial district of Ginza where you will enjoy elements of traditional Japan including an old shogunate garden and cup of green tea amid a modern landscape. This culturally enriched tour culminates in Akihabara, "Electric Town", Tokyo's pop culture hub. 

PROGRAM DETAILS

Today will start with a lesson in Aikido. More than just a martial art, Aikido also blends philosophy and religious principles.

Aikido is not about the use of force, but of using your opponent's force and momentum against them, thus one does not have to necessarily be physically strong to be adept in the art.

Next, we have a lesson in shuji, Japanese calligraphy. Whilst kanji (Japanese pictographs) may look like a bunch of nice looking squiggles to the untrained eye, each stroke has a proper way to begin and end and there is a correct order and path to follow.  The slightest lapse in concentration will show in one's work.

Time to put down the pen and take up the sword as we head to a sword museum in Shibuya. Japanese katana swords are world famous and no good samurai would go out without his. They were considered extensions of a samurai's soul, and were often given names.

After lunch, it's time to test Japan's top tipple as we head to a sake brewery. We will learn about the wide range of different types of sake, how it is made and of course how it should be drunk!

Onwards to Ginza, Tokyo's premier shopping and dining area, for a stroll through an old shogunate garden where we can sip a cup of matcha whilst enjoying the view.

Last but certainly not least we will visit to Akihabara, Tokyo's pop culture mecca where we can visit toy shops and anime stores.

PRICING: in JPY per person

Rates are valid until 31 December 2012

Our services include:

• Meals as mentioned (B= Breakfast, L= Lunch, D= Dinner).
• English speaking instructor
• Entrance fees for mentioned visits

Our services do not include:

• Other meals than mentioned
• Other services than mentioned
• International and Domestic Flights
• Laundry, telephone calls and expenditure of a personal nature
• Travel insurance