Tokyo to Tokyo

Tokyo is a city like no other, where ancient traditions blend effortlessly with cutting-edge innovation. Ride high-speed elevators to towering observation decks for sweeping views of the city’s endless skyline, where glass towers pierce the sky. On clear days, spot the iconic cone of Mount Fuji on the horizon. Tokyo’s 14 districts are linked by a fast, precise transportation system, making it easy to explore the city's lively streets. Bright neon signs, the sound of arcade machines, and the constant movement of people create a thrilling and unforgettable energy.

Be sure to experience Shibuya Crossing, one of Tokyo’s most famous sights, where crowds of commuters flood the intersection under the glow of giant screens and neon lights. Throughout the city, discover centuries-old temples, peaceful shrines, and grand palaces hidden among modern skyscrapers. Taste Japan’s world-renowned cuisine, from expertly crafted sushi to delicate seafood dishes. Step into a traditional teahouse for an elegant tea ceremony or join locals singing in lively karaoke bars. In spring, Tokyo’s parks and gardens transform into a sea of pink with the arrival of cherry blossoms, offering a magical backdrop to this vibrant city.

Days at sea offer the perfect chance to relax, recharge, and enjoy activities at your own pace. Spend time at the gym, unwind with a spa treatment, watch for whales from the deck, catch up on reading, or simply soak up the sun. These peaceful sea days provide a refreshing balance to the excitement of busy days spent exploring ashore.

The Japanese city of Kobe needs no introduction. The name is synonymous with its homegrown superstar. Not the stunning shrines, cherry trees heavy with blossom during sakura, or the effervescent city buzzing with life 24/7. Of course, the focus is on a much more grassroots hero — its eponymous beef. The delicacy might have put the city on the map, but there is far more to Kobe than its meat. Naturally, Kobe wears its cuisine as a badge of honor. Its port history has given it a gastronomy that is quite different from its neighbors. Seafood and sushi is naturally some of the freshest and most diverse you can find, but Kobe's multi-cultural nature (the city is home to 98 different nationalities) means that it has one of the most diverse gastronomic cultures in Japan. Bread and bakeries are also an (unexpected) delicacy. Additionally, Sake is taken very seriously - Kobe even has its own museum dedicated to the national spirit. Historically, Kobe has always been a key city for Japan. Renamed in 1889, it was known as Owada no Tomari during the Nara Period (710-784 C.E.). Kobe's location on the calm Inland Sea between Osaka and Kyoto has proven to be pivotal in Japanese history; it is mentioned in famous literary works such as The Tale of Genji (from approximately the late 9th century) and the Taiheiki (14th century). The city and region are home to many attractions including the Himeji Castle (widely considered to be Japan's most beautiful feudal castle), a short ride away.

2 Included Shore Excursions
Glimpses of Kobe

• Activity Level - Moderate

Kyoto on Your Own Exploration

• Activity Level - Moderate

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind, and catch up with what you've been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale-watching, catching up on your reading, or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shoreside.

One of Japan's most southerly major cities, Kagoshima is dominated by the imposing Sakurajima volcano's cone - a legendary active volcano that broods, churns, and puffs out ash nearby. A pretty old-time ferry chugs across the still waters to the gently sloping foothills of the volcano's cone, and it's easy to imagine where the comparisons with its sister city Naples materialized, as you sail the glorious sweeping Kinko Bay, below beaming sunshine, towards the immense volcanic spectacle. This is certainly no historic relic, and the volcano remains revered and feared, with the most dramatic recent eruption taking place in 1914, and spewing out a new bridge of land into the sea. Make the most of the geothermal activity in the area by indulging in a stress-simmering black sand bath. Incredibly relaxing, you'll be submerged in the warm sand, as you feel your muscles relaxing in the heat, and rejuvenating blood pumping around your body. Enjoy a privileged view of the iconic volcano's loom from the terraced garden of Senganen Garden. Built in 1658, this elegant, traditional garden has belonged to the Shimadzu family for 350 years. Wander the gardens - which bloom with Japan's renowned cherry tree blossoms and feature tiny bridges looping over ponds and rock pools - before sitting back and sipping a wholesome green matcha latte. Elsewhere, museums offer Feudal Era and Satsuma Province history, as well as insights into the Kamikaze squadrons of World War II. Lake Ikeda is also close by, so be sure to keep an eye out for the legendary Issie monster.

2 Included Shore Excursions
Landscapes of Kagoshima

• Activity Level - Moderate

Views of Kagoshima

• Activity Level - Moderate (Accessibility - Moderate Mobility Issues)

Utterly devastated in just a few seconds, Nagasaki was the target of the second US atomic bomb, as World War II moved toward its horrifying conclusion. More than 50,000 were killed, and the stories here are harrowing and poignant. The fact that Nagasaki still stands at all, and has embarked on a new mission to promote global peace with a message of hope, is a testament to the people of this extraordinary place, however. The scars the city wears never heal, but the color, culture, and creativity of Nagasaki may surprise you. Of course, the events of August 9th, 1945 are unavoidable, and the Atomic Bomb Museum pulls no punches in its rendering of the story. Hear from survivors, known as "Hibakushas", who speak at the center, sharing tales of sadness, hope, and resilience. The Memorial Hall is a glass structure of meditation and messages of peace left by visitors from every corner of the world. Nagasaki Peace Park honors the victims, while the Hypocenter Park marks the explosion's epicenter. Suwa Shrine stands just 800 meters away, and you can see the iconic, one-legged torii which was photographed, miraculously still standing amid the sea of devastation. Look out for the temple's scarred trees, which somehow survived the blast too. Look out over the city, nestled in the undulations of the valley - as you reach the top of Mount Inasa - which actually served to protect and shelter Nagasaki from even more destruction. Up here, you can't help but consider the city's journey - as it spreads out before you. A ropeway or a bus helps you reach this spectacular vantage point, to observe the harbor glittering and glistening peacefully.

2 Included Shore Excursions
Peace Memorial Park & Mt. Inasa

• Activity Level - Minimal (Accessibility - Moderate Mobility Issues)
• Please note: This tour involves a minimal to moderate amount of walking for approximately 0.4 miles(0.7 km) and a few steps to negotiate at the visited sites and to get on/off the bus. This tour is suitable for guests with limited mobility and those who utilise a foldable wheelchair. Motorized wheelchairs/scooters cannot be accommodated in the coach. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing, and bring sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses from the ship. The tour sequence may vary. Japanese yen is required for any purchases: guests are advised to exchange money at the airport prior the cruise. Local tour guides may have a strong accent, so flexibility is recommended.

Historical Nagasaki

• Activity Level - Moderate
• Please note: This tour involves a moderate to moderate amount of walking and standing for approximately 0.35 miles (about 600 meters) with about 20 steps at the visited sites and a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach. This tour not is suitable for guests with limited mobility or those who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are required to take off shoes at Nagasaki Museum of History and Culture part of the Nagasaki Magistrate's Office. Please note there is no visit to the Atomic Museum on this tour. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing. Japanese yen is required for any purchases: guests are advised to exchange money at the airport prior the cruise. Tour sequence may vary. Local tour guides may have a strong accent, so flexibility is recommended..

A tapestry of kaleidoscopic colors, intense seafood flavors, and urban beach bliss, Busan rolls across a glorious natural setting on the Korean Peninsula's southeast. One of the biggest and busiest ports in the world, 3.5 million people call South Korea's second city home, and the amiable locals help to lend the city its quirky, offbeat outlook. A spacious, playful, and cosmopolitan place, Busan is a lively, livable city, cradled by lush mountains and endless ocean scenery. Haedong Yonggung Temple nestles on a dramatic cliffside, just above the crumbling rocks and crashing waves of the East Sea. Dating back to 1376, the temple's multi-story pagoda is adorned with lions - each representing a different emotion. Elsewhere, lanterns glitter in the night sky around Mount Geumjeongsan, freshly released from the beautiful Beomeosa Temple, which was established in AD 678. The hillside shantytown of Gamcheon Culture Village has completed an improbable transformation, blossoming from a sea of makeshift homes for Korean war refugees, into a colorful explosion of creativity and curiosity. Local artists have been let loose to create interactive installations, and the entire area is now an expansive canvas for expression. Lose yourself among vibrant alleyways of flamingo-pink, lemon-yellow, and baby-blue painted facades in this unique area. Sample bibimbap, fiery-hot beef, and rice, from street food vendors, before relaxing on one of South Korea's best beaches - Haeundae's banana bend of sand. Metallic skyscrapers offer an unusual backdrop to this pristine expanse of golden powder and are mirrored by elaborate sandcastles and sculptures during the annual sand festival - when spontaneous water fights and firework displays also take place. Gwangalli Beach is another urban option, laying out spectacular views of the reaching Gwangan Bridge - the country's second largest bridge. At night, 16,000 bulbs bathe this "engineering marvel in color."

2 Included Shore Excursions
Introduction to Busan

• Activity Level - Moderate
• Please note: This tour requires an extensive amount of walking for approximately 1.86 miles (about three kilometers), at times over uneven and natural surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach; lifts are available at the Busan Museum. Walking at the Gukje Market is at the discretion of each guest. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection, a sweater or light jacket, bottled water, and local currency or credit cards for purchases from the ship. Guests must be at least 12 years old to participate on this tour; minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over 18 years old. Guests must be at least 18 years old to be served alcoholic beverages. The Busan Museum is closed on Mondays; in the event this excursion takes place on a Monday, a visit to the Oryukdo Skywalk is substituted. The tour sequence may vary. Jagalchi Fish Market is closed on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of each month. On these dates it can be replaced by Sin Dong A Fish Market, which offers a similar guest experience.

Gamcheon Cultural Village & Local Market

• Activity Level - Extensive
• Please note: This tour requires an extensive amount of walking for approximately 2.5 miles (about four kilometers), at times over uneven and natural surfaces and steep inclines, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and 200 steps at the Gamcheon Cultural Village. Walking at the Gukje Market is at the discretion of each guest. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection, a sweater or light jacket, bottled water, and local currency or credit cards for purchases from the ship. Guests must be at least 12 years old to participate on this tour; minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over 18 years old. Guests must be at least 18 years old to be served alcoholic beverages. The tour sequence may vary. Jagalchi Fish Market is closed on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of each month. On these dates it can be replaced by Sin Dong A Fish Market, which offers a similar guest experience.

Boasting Japan's heady cocktail of hot springs, gourmet food, abundant nature, and spiritual history, Kyushu Island has all the advantages of the mainland, while enjoying its own identity. The island is the third largest of Japan's five island provinces and prides itself on having everything you could expect from the Land of the Rising Sun. The capital of the island, Fukuoka, is Japan in a bite-sized morsel. As one of the country's most strategic ports - it is closer to Seoul than Tokyo - the city has enjoyed a somewhat prestigious status over the years, including two unsuccessful Mongol invasion attempts in the 13th century. Some scholars suggest that the city is also the first place the Imperial Family set foot, although actual proof of this is scarce. What is certain however is that it was once the home of the samurai, with many samurai-related spots found all over the city. A trip to the Kyushu National Museum allow budding actors to try on traditional costumes and channel their inner feudal lord, while local shrines, tranquil Zen gardens, and castle ruins all offer a chance to relive the city's glory days. The city itself is made up of two smaller towns (Fukuoka and Hakata), and despite unification in 1889, Hakata is still considered the center. A 2018 survey ranked the city number 22 on the "world's most livable cities" list, due to its excellent shopping, outstanding food, excellent transport links, good museums, "feeling of openness", green spaces, and friendly, safe, environment.

3 Included Shore Excursions
Introduction to Karatsu

• Activity Level - Minimal
• Please note: This tour involves moderate amount of walking (approximately 1.0km or 0.6miles) with around 60 steps at the various sites and a few to negotiate to get on/off the coach. This tour is not suitable for guests with guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing, flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. Shoes must be removed when entering Former Takatori House and Nakazato Taroemon Kiln. Although credit cards are mainly accepted, Japanese yen is required for any purchases: guests are advised to exchange money at the airport prior to the cruise. The tour sequence may vary. Local tour guides may have a strong accent, so flexibility is recommended. Nakazato Taroemon Klin is closed on Wednesday and every 1st, 3rd and 5th Thursday, therefore it can be replaced with a visit of Nakano Tochi Klin (Pottery Workshop).

Ancient & Modern Fukuoka

• Activity Level - Moderate
• Please note: This tour involves extensive amount of walking (total distance about 2km or 1.2miles) on unpaved and paved surface with approximately 100 steps at the shrine and a few to negotiate to get on/off the coach. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing, flat, closed-toe walking shoes are recommended. The view from the Fukuoka Tower depends on the weather. Due to the popularity of sights visited, some crowding may be anticipated. Although credit cards are mainly accepted, Japanese yen is required for any purchases: guests are advised to exchange money at the airport prior to the cruise. Local tour guides may have a strong accent, so flexibility is recommended..
• IMPORTANT NOTE:
• Daizafu Tenmangu's main hall is undergoing major renovations from May 2023 until around 2026. However, a unique temporary offering hall with grass and trees on its roof was built to serve visitors during the renovation period.

Hakata Walking Exploration

• Activity Level - Extensive
• Please note: This tour involves extensive amount of walking (total distance about 3km or 1.86 miles) on paved, inclined streets and some steps at the various sites and a few to negotiate to get on/off the coach. This tour is not suitable for guests with guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair.  Lightweight, comfortable clothing, flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and sun protection are recommended. The tour also includes a subway ride. Although credit cards are mainly accepted, Japanese yen is required for any purchases; guests are advised to exchange money at the airport prior to the cruise. The tour sequence may vary. Local tour guides may have a strong accent, so flexibility is recommended.

Sail through the eye of a needle while cutting through this fabled passage of Japanese water, separating Kyushu from the country's largest island, Honshu. The two islands brush up against each other here, parted only by the scenic S-bend of water. Sail below the mighty span of sweeping suspension bridges like Kanmonkyo Bridge, while transiting this hugely important and strategic thread, which links the Sea of Japan with the Inland Sea. The natural bottleneck here has instigated historic battles on and around these waters over the centuries, tilting the history of Japan and the region back and forth. Learn of rich maritime heritage and historic agreements - like the Treaty of Shimonoseki, which was inked on these shores. Nowadays, the passage is a peaceful, pleasant affair to cruise through. Ferries and pleasure boats crisscross the two shorelines, where a mere 700 meters of blue water separates the islands at their closest point, and tunnels - including a pedestrian route - seamlessly connect the cities of Shimonoseki and Kitakyushu. There's always something going on throughout the year, whether it's Kitakyushu city blooming with renowned cherry blossoms in spring, or the strait's waters lighting up during the firework festival - when each island celebrates and collaborates in a vibrant dual display. Equal parts scenic and storied, this is one of Japan's most beautiful and intriguing stretches of water and a fascinating passage through history.

The lantern-lit hot springs of Beppu, known for its eight scorching “Hells”, is a town that's prettier than a picture. The town is found in a particularly volcanically active part of Japan (hence the abundance of hot springs, or in Japanese, onsens). The viewing pools have evocative names; think Sea Hell, Blood Pond Hell, and Tornado Hell. While the names might seem a little off-putting, the reality is stunning; sulfur laced air and vast spectrums of blues and reds, depending on the mineralization of the earth. As if the gorgeous palette of colors at the onsen was not enough, Beppu is also world famous for its Sakura, or cherry blossom season. More than 2,000 cherry trees near the base of the ropeway to Mount Tsurumi make for one of Beppu's most impressive hanami (flower viewing) spots. If not lucky enough to be in the area during Sakura, from May to June rhododendrons color the mountain. The view from this 1,375-meter mountain is beyond impressive, allowing you to see all the way to the Kuju Mountains, Chugoku, and Shikoku. If brave enough to climb to the top, the stone Buddhas that were carved into the mountainside during the Heian Period (794-1185) are a worthy reward! As with much of Japan, duality is ever present. Modernity sits very comfortably beside ancient buildings. While Beppu's biggest pull is by far the hot springs and the thermal baths, nearby. Yufuin has a wealth of art museums, cafes, and boutiques, catering to trendsetters and urbanites alike.

2 Included Shore Excursions
Beppu Jigokumeguri - Hell Experience

• Activity Level - Moderate
• Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 0.43 miles (about 0.7 kilometers), at times over uneven and slippery surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and at the sites visited. Walking at each of the hot springs is at the discretion of each guest. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection, a sweater or light jacket, small towel, bottled water, and Japanese Yen or credit cards for purchases from the ship. Although credit cards are mostly accepted, Japanese yen is required for any purchases; guests are advised to exchange money at the airport prior to the cruise. Proper attire is required to enter temples and shrines; shorts and bare shoulders are not permitted. Guests must be at least 12 years old to participate on this tour; minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over 18 years old. Guests must be at least 20 years old to be served alcoholic beverages. Infrastructure in Beppu may be basic, and local conditions may be challenging; coaches, guides, hotels, restaurants, equipment, and services are the best-available in the area, but may not be up to the standards of those found on other ports. Therefore, flexibility and understanding are recommended when visiting unique, less-touristic destinations. The cost of providing a tour programme in this area is proportionately more expensive than in neighboring regions, as vehicles and guides are brought in from the whole region. This may be reflected in the prices of the tours, and your understanding is appreciated. Guests opting to soak their feet in the hot springs at the Umi Jigoku Foot Spa are required to bring a small towel to dry off their feet. Operation of this tour is subject to weather conditions. The tour sequence may vary. osaka

Usuki Village & Stone Buddhas Site

• Activity Level - Extensive
• Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking for approximately 1.5 miles (about 2.4 kilometers), at times over uneven, cobblestone, and natural surfaces and inclines, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach, 80 steps at the Usuki Castle, and 120 steps at the Usuki Stone Buddhas. This tour is not suitable for guests prone to motion sickness, guests with limited mobility, and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection, a sweater or light jacket, bottled water, and Japanese Yen or credit cards for purchases from the ship. Although credit cards are mostly accepted, Japanese Yen is required for any purchases; guests are advised to exchange money at the airport prior to the cruise. Proper attire is required to enter temples and shrines; shorts and bare shoulders are not permitted. Guests must be at least 12 years old to participate on this tour; minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over 18 years old. Guests must be at least 20 years old to be served alcoholic beverages. Infrastructure in Beppu may be basic, and local conditions may be challenging; coaches, guides, hotels, restaurants, equipment, and services are the best-available in the area, but may not be up to the standards of those found on other ports. Therefore, flexibility and understanding are recommended when visiting unique, less-touristic destinations. The cost of providing a tour programme in this area is proportionately more expensive than in neighboring regions, as vehicles and guides are brought in from the whole region. This may be reflected in the prices of the tours, and your understanding is appreciated. Operation of this tour is subject to weather conditions. The driving time between the pier and sites visited is approximately one hour in each direction. The tour sequence may vary.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind, and catch up with what you've been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale-watching, catching up on your reading, or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shoreside.

After breakfast, bid farewell to your fellow travelers as you disembark today. Then, head to the airport for your flight home.