Two-days cultural trip to Himeji and Kobe

Overview

This year's trip will lead to Himeji, where one of Japan's most beautiful castles is located, and Kobe, where the famous Kobe-Beef originates. As usual, a large Go event will be organized during the trip.

Himeji Castle is also known as the White Heron Castle due to its brilliant white exterior and its resemblance to a bird taking flight. Originally built in the 14th century, the castle complex was significantly expanded during Sengoku period (16th century). Himeji Castle is one of the very few castles in Japan that remained intact for more than 400 years.

Kobe beef is a world-famous delicacy from Japan. Premium quality cattle are raised in a special way, resulting in an unique marbled texture and extreme tenderness.

We will have lunch at a well known but affordable teppanyaki restaurant. A Kobe beef full course meal starts around 4000 JPY while regular steak menus are available for 1000 JPY.

Ikuta Shrine is one of the oldest Shinto shrines in Japan. It was founded in the 3rd century for a festival welcoming back warriors. During the famous Genpei War in late-Heian period (12th century), the land around the Ikuta Shrine was a major strategic point where many battles took place. Tales of these battles are retold in theaters and the autumn festival at the shrine.

The Kitano district is known for its large number of former foreign embassies and residences from the late Meiji and early Taisho eras (around 1900). While some of the houses still serve as residences, many are open as museums, coffee shops and restaurants. Take a stroll in this area and learn about some of the Japanese diplomacy history!

Program and schedule

Wed, July 1st
- 09:00: Departure from front of TTS Center
- noon: Arrival and lunch at Himeji
- 13:00: Friendship match against local players
- 18:00: Welcome reception and dinner (organized by Himeji Go Association)
- 20:00: Accommodation at Hotel Wing Int. (http://himeji.hotelwingjapan.com/)

Thu, July 2nd
- 09:30: Gathering at the hotel lobby
- morning: Visit the Himeji Castle
- 12:00: Set out for Kobe
- 13:00: Lunch (optional Kobe Beef set menu)
- afternoon: Visit the Ikuta shrine, Kitano Ijinkan-gai, and Inoue Go-board factory
- 19:00: Return to Osaka (estimated arrival at TTS Center: 20:00)

Price and payment

20.000 JPY per person (single room or double room)

The price includes:
- Transportation via bus
- Hotel accommodation
- Entrance fee for the Himeji Castle
- Reception dinner at Himeji

Not included:
- Lunch
- Optional entrance fees to various museums in Ijinkan-gai

Payment:
You can either pay it together with the remaining amount for the camp via bank transfer or Paypal latest by June 14th (two weeks before the camp), or via cash on site on June 28th.

In 2013 and 2014, the trip went to Hiroshima and Innoshima, see here.