AMEX TAKES DEPARTURES TO JAPAN.(American Express)

Byline: Karen Holt

Really rich customers need special help. Whether high-end cardholders are looking to stretch the $3 million they've budgeted for a vacation home, negotiating for their first jet or shopping for $6,000 handbags, since 1988 American Express Co.'s Departures has helped them navigate opulent waters. Starting in March, the good-life advice will be available to Amex customers who do their big spending in yen. That's when Departures Japan will launch. The quarterly is a joint venture between American Express Publishing Corp., American Express International