Philippines to Japan Cultural Discovery Cruise

Arrive in Manila today and immerse yourself in the teeming, sprawling metropolis of the Philippine capital. The city's creative, exciting energy far outshines any imperfections, deeply influencing everything from local art to the culinary landscape. Discover a multitude of sights, with highlights such as the city's museums, Fort Santiago, San Agustin Church, and the fascinating Chinese Cemetery. Make sure to visit Intramuros, the historic Spanish walled town situated right at the city's heart. If time permits, explore these captivating streets and taste traditional Filipino cuisine in all its bold, sweet, sour, and tangy glory.

Alternatively, proceed straight to your floating home for the next several days. Following a seamless check-in, settle into your cabin or stateroom and take some time to enjoy the ship’s luxurious facilities.

Journey to Hundred Islands National Park in the Philippine Lingayen Gulf, where you can explore 124 distinct islands. Admire their fascinating mushroom-like silhouettes, naturally sculpted from ancient seabeds by centuries of fluctuating sea levels. While navigating this vibrant marine environment—waters once sailed by historic Spanish galleons—take note of active conservation initiatives, such as the replanting of giant clams designed to protect the local ecosystem. Make sure to visit Governor's Island to find a scenic viewing deck featuring a statue of St. Joseph. From this exact vantage point, embrace the thrill of soaring directly across the water on a 546-meter island-to-island zipline.

Included Activity:

Island Hopping Tour (4 hours)
Leaving the ship by zodiac to the island, board a traditional motorized outrigger boat (banca) to commence your exclusive island-hopping tour. Cruise through the park's majestic network of islets, passing picturesque locations such as Clave Island and Children’s Island, soaking in the unique seascape. The first major stop is Pilgrimage Island, the spiritual and scenic home of the towering, 55-foot statue of Jesus Christ the Savior. Enjoy the views and capture memorable photographs from this elevated landmark. Experience the area's unique rock formations on a panoramic pass by Cuenco Cave. Continue the scenic cruise, passing by notable islets including Governor’s Island, Mayor’s Island, Romulo Island, Marcos Island, and Cathedral Island. During the tour, stop to swim and snorkel. Local guides will identify the best spots depending on the day. Conclude your island exploration back on Quezon Island, where you can have free time to relax, sunbathe on the white-sand beach, or enjoy additional water recreational activities.

The Philippines' best preserved colonial town, the UNESCO-listed 16th century Vigan City lies an hour south of Salomague port. Vigan's unique fusion architecture blending Philippine, Chinese and European elements has "no parallel in East and Southeast Asia" per UNESCO. Cobblestoned Calle Crisologo is the lively main street of the Mestizo district, with its broad promenade (malecón), horse-drawn carriages and rustic mansions.

Included Activity:

Vigan Historical Walking Tour (4 hours)
A journey through the cultural treasures of Vigan, proudly recognized as one of the New 7 Wonder Cities of the World. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a living museum of Spanish colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and centuries-old traditions. Your tour begins with a visit to the iconic Bantay Church and Bell Tower, a landmark that offers sweeping views of the city and surrounding landscapes. Continue your adventure as you proceed to the heart of Vigan for a leisurely walking tour, discovering the charm of Plaza Salcedo, the elegant St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the famous Calle Crisologo, a picturesque cobblestone street lined with well-preserved Spanish colonial houses and ancestral homes. After a day filled with history and culture, return to the port with unforgettable memories of Vigan’s timeless allure.

Batanes, the Philippines’ northernmost province with capital Basco, was first occupied by Japan in WWII, leaving behind the hand-carved Dipnaysuhuan Tunnel, cut from volcanic rock. Today, Batanes is celebrated for its Ivatan heritage, with a resilient culture shaped by isolation and storms, reflected in its century-old stone houses. Diura Fishing Village showcases this enduring spirit, where traditional Ivatan fishing rituals continue today.

Included Activity:

Heritage and History of Batan (4 hours)
Your journey begins at the Dipnaysuhuan Japanese Tunnel, a historical site from World War II. Next, explore the stunning Rakuh-a-Payaman, also known as "Marlboro Country," with its rolling hills and breathtaking ocean views. Visit the National Museum-Batanes to discover the rich culture of the Ivatan people through various artifacts. Afterward, stroll through Itbud Village, known for its traditional stone houses. Finally, head to Mahatao to see its well-preserved stone dwellings and the San Carlos Borromeo Church, before returning to Basco Port.

A small island with a rustic vibe, Sabtang is one of four main inhabited islands of Batanes and features peaceful sandy beaches backed by verdant cliffs. Browse traditional products like woven baskets and the local berry wine. For a moderate hike, wind your way up occasionally steep, grassy ridges to breathtaking seascapes at the Chamantad-Tinyan Viewpoint. On Morong Beach, photogenic Mahayao Arch is a massive natural rock formation.

Included Activity:

Sabtang Island Cultural Immersion (3.5 hours)
Upon arrival at Sabtang Port, take a short walk to the main road where local tricycles await. Begin your tour with a ride to Savidug Village, followed by a guided walking tour of the iconic Ivatan stone houses. Next, visit the scenic Chamantad Viewpoint to witness the making of traditional Ivatan attire while enjoying coastal views. Light refreshments will be provided. Continue to Morong Beach, where you can relax and stroll along the shore. Afterward, re-board the tricycles for the return to Sabtang Port and board the zodiac for your transfer back to the ship.

Sea days are rarely dull. Take the time to sit back and let the world go by. The ship’s observation decks provide stunning views of the passing ocean. A day at sea gives you the opportunity to mingle with other passengers and share your experiences of this incredible trip or head to the library which is stocked full of reference books. Get an expert’s view in one of the on-board lectures or perhaps perfect your photography skills with invaluable advice from the onboard professional photographers.

Naha is the capital of the Okinawa prefecture, part of an archipelago of more than 160 islands that formed part of the independent Ryukyu Kingdom, ruled by monarchs from the 1400s, until it became part of Japan in 1879. Ryukyu attractions include Shuri Castle, once home to Ryukyu royalty, and Naminouegu shrine. This seaside city also offers one of Japan’s best museums - the Okinawa Prefectural Museum & Art Museum.

Included Activity:

Beauty of Ryukyu Kingdom (4.5 hours)
Depart the port on your motorcoach and head to Shuri Castle, the symbol of Naha. While the Main Hall is under reconstruction after a fire in 2019, the surrounding structures still maintain the castle's atmosphere. Next, visit Seifa Utaki, the spiritual center of Okinawa and a World Heritage Site, where locals come to offer their prayers. The atmosphere is peaceful yet solemn as you approach the sacred site.

Dreamy beaches, mangroves and cerulean seas make up the Amami Islands. The largest, Amami Oshima, was part of the Ryukyu Kingdom before brief US control after WWII. The Tanaka Isson Memorial Museum in Amami Park displays works by the late painter who lived here. Pristine beaches like Tomori have colorful marine life, while in the south, rivers weave round the Mangrove Primeval Forest, and rugged cliffs and giant pebbles hug the Honohoshi Coast.

Included Activity:

Culture of Amami (3.5 hours)
Begin your journey from the port aboard a comfortable tour bus to explore the cultural heritage of Amami. Your first stop is Oshima Tsumugimura, home to the exquisite Oshima Tsumugi kimono fabric, known for its intricate craftsmanship. Learn about the dyeing and weaving process, then enjoy a stroll through the adjacent garden featuring unique subtropical flora. Don’t miss the chance to purchase beautifully crafted Oshima Tsumugi products. Next, visit Amami Park, where you can explore two museum exhibits. The first highlights the traditions and daily life of the Amami Islands, while the second showcases the work of celebrated painter Tanaka Isson, whose art reflects the island’s natural beauty. Experience Amami through his evocative paintings and admire its lush landscapes.

Sakitsu Village, on the Amakusa Islands in western Kumamoto, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site tied to Japan’s Hidden Christian history. Once a secret hub of worship during prohibition, it’s home to Sakitsu Church, known as the “Church of the Sea,” with a European Gothic exterior and rare tatami-mat interior. The village’s story is further told at the Minato-ya Museum, which displays artefacts used to practice the faith in secret.

Included Activity:

Sakitsu Walking Tour (1 hour, 15 mins)
Welcome to Sakitsu Village, a charming fishing community in Amakusa, Kumamoto Prefecture, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its unique blend of Hidden Christianity, Buddhism, and Shinto practices. Upon landing by Zodiac, be greeted by friendly locals offering a welcome drink and a detailed map. Explore the narrow lanes and waterfront decks at your leisure. Don’t miss the three key locations: Sakitsu Church, a striking Gothic-style Catholic church; the nearby Shinto shrine; and the Fuoken Temple, a local Buddhist temple. You can choose to explore independently or join a guided walking tour with an English-speaking local guide, providing deeper insights into the village's unique heritage. Enjoy your visit!

Kagoshima, on the southwest tip of Japan’s Kyushu Island, is home to several glassmakers and potteries where artisans specialize in making Satsuma pottery and delicately cut Kiriko glassware. This city is a mix of classic Japanese architecture, modern high-rises and a spattering of Art Deco buildings. Observation points around the city provide dramatic views of Mount Sakurajima, an active volcano on a nearby island that regularly smokes.

Included Activity:

Sakurajima Volcan (3 hours, 15 mins)
Discover Sakurajima, the iconic active volcano of Kagoshima, with smoke billowing from its top daily. Depart from the port for a short drive to the ferry terminal and board the ferry, enjoying a 15-minute ride across to Sakurajima. Visit the Arimura Lava Observatory, which offers excellent vantage points connected by paved walking paths to observe the volcano and coastline. Return to the Sakurajima ferry terminal and board the ferry for your trip back to the port. Note: there are a maximum of 70 steps up to the top of the Arimura Observatory.

Uwajima, a bustling coastal city, is anchored by the elegant Uwajima Castle, one of twelve Edo-period survivors, with spectacular cityscapes for hikers ascending to its keep. The Tensha-en Garden is a tranquil space with bamboo groves, towering culms and seasonal blooms. In the nearby village of Uchiko, the Old Quarter's streets are lined with well-preserved wooden houses and merchant buildings, frozen in time from the 18th and 19th centuries.

Included Activity:

History of Uwajima (3 hours)
Your excursion begins at Uwajima Castle, notable for its well-preserved donjon and designation as a National Important Cultural Asset. Next, visit the Uwajima City Date Museum, which showcases artifacts from the influential Date clan. The final stop is Tenshaen Garden, a beautiful Japanese circuit-style garden created in 1866, perfect for a peaceful stroll. Good to know: The tour involves about 1 km of walking, mostly on flat gravel paths with some cobblestones, and requires negotiating approximately 250 steps at Uwajima Castle and 30 steps inside the Date Museum.

Hiroshima is a city of peace and resilience. The Hiroshima Peace Park and Museum, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, vividly portrays the aftermath of the atomic bombing. Designed by Kenzō Tange and inaugurated in 1955, the museum serves as a global symbol of peace, featuring a solemn cenotaph bearing the victims' names and the Flame of Peace, lit in 1964. The Genbaku Dome stands as the sole original structure left at the blast site.

Included Activity:

Peace Memorial Park and Museum (In transit Guests) (3.5 hours)
The excursion begins with a transfer to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, where guests will see the Atomic Bomb Dome, the only building left standing near the blast's hypocenter. Next, visit the Memorial Cenotaph, which honors the 220,000 victims. The tour concludes at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, featuring personal belongings, photographs, and stories of the victims. Please note that the tour covers about 4 km (2.5 miles) on partially paved paths, and visitors must follow a one-way route inside Itsukushima Shrine. The museum contains sensitive material, including graphic displays of war.