Traveling with the Michael Shermer's Skeptic Society to South Japan
Neon-lit cities, jagged skyscrapers; paths running under vermilion torii gates that lead to sublime Shinto shrines; ancient forests; exquisite gardens; smoking volcanoes; centuries-old Buddhist temples: it’s no wonder that Japan tops a travel wish list. Explore the southern part of the Land of the Rising Sun on our 11-night South Japan cruise around the Seto Inland Sea and East Sea (Sea of Japan), including the western end of Honshu island, Kyushu and Yakushima islands, with a short hop to South Korea. From poignant memorials in Hiroshima and Nagasaki to friendly cities and colourful gardens, experience this varied region on board our boutique expedition ship and discover a country that stirs the emotions.
On the Cruise Norway SH Minerva.
Dear Phil, Rosemary, and Tom:
Japan is a land of contrasts. It is one of the largest economies of the world, ultramodern and technologically advanced. And yet, it cherishes and preserves its ancient traditions, customs and architecture. Modern, glittering, dynamic cities coexist with centuries-old Buddhist temples, sublime Shinto shrines, feudal castles, and samurai estates. Throughout this voyage to the Inland Sea and Japan’s southern islands, we will experience these contradictory aspects of Japan as they are reflected in the art, architecture, and culture of its towns, cities, and gardens.
The traditional aspect is seen in the architecture and adornments of the Buddhist and Shinto shrines we visit in Miyajimi and Nagasaki, in the castles of Himeji, Hagi, Matsue, and Uwajima, and in the open-air museum of Shikoku Mur. And this ancient aesthetic literally comes alive in the exquisitely designed and maintained gardens of Koraku-en and Sengan-en. The modernist impulse is evident not only in the great cities we visit, but also in the works of avant-garde artists on display in the Adachi Museum in Sakaiminato, in Isamu Noguchi’s studio in Takamatsu, and in the vibrant art scene on the island of Naoshima.
Joining us on the voyage is Admiral James Stavridis, former Supreme Allied Commander of NATO, and NBC News Chief International Security Analyst. At various stages throughout the trip, he will speak on a wide range of historical and cultural topics with a focus on Japan’s role on the international stage. The rise of China to superpower status after World War II has made Japan an increasingly important factor in United States policy in East Asia. He will help you understand the central issues that will drive American military and security policy in the Pacific in the 21st century.
As a nation of sprawling islands, Japan is best explored by sea, and we have the ideal vessel for the task, the Swan Hellenic Minerva, a state-of-the-art, new-generation expedition cruise ship built in Finland and launched in 2021. Accommodating only 152 guests in superb staterooms and balcony suites, Minerva features elegant common areas and the most modern mechanical and environmentally conscious technology.
Thanks for joining us on this extraordinary Springtime Voyage to Classic Japan.
Best wishes,
Dr. Michael Shermer
Executive Director, Skeptics Society
