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Clement’s story of exploration and luxury travel ends in Kyoto, Japan where he visited Setsuji Wada – the Japanese ‘Maki-e’ lacquer artist and the representative of the Namiki company. Clement returned to dunhill with a new a partnership that lasted four decades and a blossoming love for the Orient.
An exotic kaleidoscope of scenes and settings, the iconic images of Japan are just about as spot on as it can get. Think pale-faced geishas, prehistoric temples and mist-adorned valleys; you’re already one step closer to this enthralling traveller’s hotspot.
To celebrate Japan’s ancient culture, we’ve come up with an alluring experience to take you through history. This is a unique, unconventional destination where the fascinating blends of western technology with ancient traditions have turned the country on its head; the land of the rising sun is one of true extremes.
cherry-blossoms
hot springing in arima
Against the backdrop of cherry blossoms and Kamakura architecture, you’ll begin your Japanese journey bathing in Arima Onsen’s hot springs. The oldest hot springs in Japan, Arima’s outdoor spas are entirely natural, complete with mineral ‘blessings’ supposed to relieve and soothe the mind. Get wrinkled to a prune in the deliciously warm waters, allow the cascading waterfalls to massage your back, and be buried in naturally heated sand. Trust us; you’ll feel a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of home.
Set up camp at the refined Hotel Kinzan; your perfect gateway to exploring the hot springs. Formally a beautiful tea-ceremony building, Kinzan is infused with a sense of Japanese tradition, enveloping its guests in a soothing, gentle ambience. Just what you’ve been looking for.
big city life, kyoto
Feeling revitalized and refreshed, it will be on to Kyoto to release your inner culture vulture. Here, staying at the marvellous Hoshinoya – a picturesque retreat fit for a noble – you’ll get to discover this culturally rich on a whirl wind tour of this mesmerizing city.
Marvel at the seductive Sanjusangendo Temple. One of Japan’s National Treasures, built in 1164, this majestic temple houses more than 1,030 standing Buddhist statues in its main hall. The principle image, a seated Thousand-Handed Kannon, was carved by the famous sculptor Tankei, and its beauty is legendary. Then, on to Nijo Castle, which was given its World Heritage Site status on account of its splendid architecture and magnificent interior decoration. A mighty symbol of Tokugawa power in the Kansai region, the castle is a unique example of shoin-zukuri style. Next, take to the beauty of Nara Park. Otherwise known as Deer Park for the twelve hundred deer which inhabit it, be at liberty to roam through groves of cedars, oaks, andromedas and wisteria. And don’t forget Kiyomizu Temple, Heian Jingu Shrine, and Todaiji Temple too.
kyoto's maiko
bushido and geishas
Get to grips with Japanese steel, the Samurai sword, learning from the masters themselves. You’ll discover all there is to know about Bushido – the code of the samurai and the original way of the warrior. And, in the evening, head to Gion, famed for it’s beautiful geiko and maiko entertainers. Set in the middle of the district is Mochizuki, an “Ochaya” salon. Ochaya often turns away casual visitors, but we’ve pried its doors open and can arrange for you to enjoy a sushi dinner alongside a performance by a geisha, her geisha apprentice (maiko) and the accompanying musician (jikata). And if you’re feeling competitive why not try dabble in a traditional game with them – with a translator on hand to ensure the rules are fully explained of course.
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