Tokyo to Tokyo

Tokyo is a dynamic city where ancient traditions and modern innovation coexist seamlessly. From towering observation decks, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city, spotting the distant silhouette of Mount Fuji on clear days. The city’s efficient transportation system connects its 14 districts, while neon advertisements, arcade sounds, and bustling crowds create an energetic atmosphere. One of Tokyo’s most iconic sights is the Shibuya Crossing, where waves of people move in synchronized patterns, all under the glow of giant neon signs. The city also offers rich cultural experiences, with 7th-century temples, beautiful palaces, and serene shrines nestled among skyscrapers. Enjoy fresh, precisely prepared sushi at local restaurants, or experience a traditional tea ceremony in a quiet teahouse. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom across the city’s parks and gardens, adding a delicate pink hue to the landscape.

Days at sea offer the perfect chance to relax and unwind. Whether you want to visit the gym, enjoy a spa treatment, go whale-watching, catch up on reading, or simply soak up the sun, these peaceful sea days provide a refreshing break between exploring the shore.

Japan's third-biggest city has thrown off its shackles and stepped out of the shadows to light up the sky with glaring neon signs and a larger-than-life outlook. Giant octopuses cling to buildings, and bustling restaurants pack in the crowds in this great and garish place, which is Japan at its most friendly, extroverted, and flavorful. So dive in headfirst to experience an all-out sensory assault of delicious food, shopping cathedrals, and glittering temples. Dotombori Bridge bathes in the multicolored, jewel-like lights of signage-plastered buildings, and the neon lights dance on the canal's waters below. Osaka is known as the nation's kitchen, and the Kuromon Ichiba Market has served as the city's spot to tuck in for almost 200 years. Full of street food stalls - try pufferfish, savory Okonomiyaki pancakes, or ginger and onion-flavored octopus, among the endless feast of exotic flavors. Osaka Castle is another of the city's landmarks, built in the 16th century by Toyotomi Hideyoshi. A modern museum now waits inside, where you can learn about the country's history and why this castle is a symbol of Japanese unity. Be sure to take the elevator up to the observation deck for a panoramic view of Osaka's spread. A colorful park encloses the castle and blooms with an ocean of pale pink cherry blossoms during the season - the elegant black tiers rising from the pink haze below is one of Osaka's most alluring visions. Kyoto's peaceful cultural treasures and temples are also just a short jaunt away on Japan's sleek trains, should you wish to explore further afield.

3 Included Shore Excursions
Introduction to Osaka

• Activity Level - Extensive
• Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking for approximately two miles (about 3.2 kilometers), at times over uneven, cobblestone, and natural surfaces and inclines, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach, 40 steps at the entrance to the Osaka Castle, and 190 steps to access the top floor. 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 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 Osaka 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. Flexibility and understanding are appreciated 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 thank you for your understanding. Operation of this tour is subject to weather conditions. Photography/videography is not permitted on the third and fourth floors of the Osaka Castle. The tour sequence may vary. Space on this tour is very limited; it is suggested you book in advance to avoid disappointment.

The View of Osaka

• Activity Level - Moderate
• Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 0.6 miles (about one kilometer), at times over uneven surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and 30 steps inside the Shitenno-ji Temple; a lift is available at the Umeda Sky Building. 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 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 Osaka 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. Flexibility and understanding are appreciated 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 thank you for your understanding. Operation of this tour is subject to weather conditions. Photography/videography of the Buddha Statue at the Shitenno-ji Temple is strictly prohibited. The tour sequence may vary. Space on this tour is very limited; it is suggested you book in advance to avoid disappointment.

Kyoto On Your Own Exploration

• Activity Level - Moderate
• Please note: The drop-off point is at Kyoto Train Station (subject to change). This tour involves a moderate to extensive amount of walking, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach.  This tour is not guided. Walking in Kyoto is at the discretion of each guest. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing, flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and sun protection are recommended. Photography and videography are prohibited in some temples. Japanese yen is required for any purchases; guests are advised to exchange money at the airport prior to the cruise. The driving distance between the pier and Kyoto is approximately 1/1.5 hours in each direction. Local tour guides may have strong accents, so patience and flexibility are appreciated.

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.

History buffs want to write home about Hiroshima. Despite being devastated in 1945, this Japanese city is known to all for its commitment to peace - its ruin on August 6, 1945, led to the end of the war, and today, the Peace Memorial (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), is a constant reminder of the destruction that war brings. A walk in the leafy boulevards of Peace Memorial Park brings quiet contemplation. The Flame of Peace - set in the park's central feature pond - burns brightly and continues to do so until all the nuclear bombs in the world have been destroyed. There are many other inspiring messages of hope around the city too; the Children's Peace Monument just north of the park is a homage to little Sadako Sasaki, who was just two in 1945. When she developed leukemia in 1956, she believed that if she folded 1,000 paper cranes - a symbol of longevity and happiness in Japan - she would recover. Sadly, she died before she finished her task, but her classmates finished the rest. If you are lucky enough to visit during the unpredictable and short-lived Sakura (cherry blossom) season, then the extraordinary sight of the delicate pink blossom floating across the water to the red gate, means you can consider yourself one of the luckiest people on the planet.

2 Included Shore Excursions
Peace Memorial Park & Museum

• Activity Level - Extensive
• Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking for approximately 1.1 miles (about 1.8 kilometers), at times over uneven, cobblestone, and natural surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and 50-60 steps at the sites visited; a lift is available at the museum. Walking at the Peace Memorial Museum 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 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. Guests must be at least 12 years old to participate in 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 Hiroshima 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. Flexibility and understanding are appreciated 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 thank you for your understanding. Guests see sensitive material, including graphic pictures and displays of atrocities of war, on display in the Peace Memorial Museum. Expect crowds and long lines at the sites visited. Operation of this tour is subject to weather conditions. The tour sequence may vary.

Hiroshima Castle & Garden

• Activity Level - Extensive
• Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking for approximately 1.86 miles (about three kilometers), at times over uneven, cobblestone, and natural surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach, several steps at the Shukkei-en Garden, and 100 steps at the Hiroshima Castle. 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 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 Hiroshima 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. Flexibility and understanding are appreciated 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 thank you for your understanding. Expect crowds and long lines at the sites visited. Operation of this tour is subject to weather conditions. The tour sequence may vary. Space on this tour is very limited; it is suggested you book in advance to avoid disappointment.

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.

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.

4 Included Shore Excursions
Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine & Kyushu National Museum

• Activity Level -  Extensive
• Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking (approximately 3.2km or 2.0miles) with around 120 steps at the 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. Photography is prohibited at the Kyushu National Museum. 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. The tour sequence may vary. Local tour guides may have strong accents, so patience and flexibility are appreciated. Kyushu National Museum is closed on Monday, therefore on Mondays this site be replaced with a visit to Ohori Park.

Introduction to Karatsu

• Activity Level - Minimal
• Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking (approximately 1.0km or 0.6 miles) 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 strong accents, so patience and flexibility are appreciated. Nakazato Taroemon Klin is closed on Wednesday and every 1st, 3rd, and 5th Thursday, therefore it be replaced with a visit of Nakano Tochi Klin (Pottery Workshop).

Ancient & Modern Fukuoka

• Activity Level - Moderate
• Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking (total distance about 2km or 1.2 miles) on unpaved and paved surfaces 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. The tour sequence may vary. Local tour guides may have strong accents, so patience and flexibility are appreciated.
• 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 an 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 strong accents, so patience and flexibility are appreciated.

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 is 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 is replaced by Sin Dong A Fish Market, which offers a similar guest experience.

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.

The capital of the Ishikawa Prefecture, Kanazawa, once rivaled Kyoto and Edo (Tokyo) as a town rich in cultural achievements. Kanazawa escaped destruction during World War II and, accordingly, has been able to preserve many of the old districts in good shape. The city is famous because of Kenrokuen. Located next to Kanazawa Castle, Kenrokuen is classified as “One of the Three Gardens of Japan”. The garden has an artificial pond, and hills and houses are dotted within the 11.4 hectares. It has Japan's oldest fountain using natural water pressure and a teahouse dating back to 1774. Close by is the Higashi Chaya Gai Geisha District, designated a National Cultural Asset and the biggest of the Geisha districts of Kanazawa. Some of the houses not only retain the original structure but are still used as Geisha houses. Some of the streets have traditional shops, creating a nostalgic atmosphere. Kanazawa is also known for its lacquer ware, Kutani-style pottery, gold-leaf workmanship, and delicately painted silk kimonos.

2 Included Shore Excursions
Kenroku-en Garden & Higashi Chaya District

• Activity Level - Moderate
• Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking (approximately 1.3km or 0.8 miles) over paved and unpaved walkways, with around 20 steps at the Kenrokuen Garden 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 shoe,s and sun protection are recommended. 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 strong accents, so patience and flexibility are appreciated.

Exploring Kanazawa

• Activity Level - Moderate
• Please note: This tour involves a moderate to extensive amount of walking (approximately 2 km or 1.3 miles) over paved and unpaved walkways, with around 30 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. Guests have to take off shoes at lunch venue and at the Nagamachi Samurai Residence. 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 strong accents, so patience and flexibility are appreciated.

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.

From fiery festivals to spectacular mountain scenery, soaring temples to castles surrounded by cherry blossom blooms, Aomori is one of Japan's most enchanting destinations. Framed by dark peaks clad with dense forestry, the city enjoys a picturesque location on Japan's main island Honshu. While there are gorgeous, pink-tinted parks, tiered castles and towering Buddha statues to explore, the Aomori prefecture’s capital is perhaps best known for the summer festival of fire that lights it up each year. Lavish illuminated floats fill the streets during Nebuta Matsuri festival, as dancing locals wave flickering lanterns through the night sky - and drummers pound out pulsating rhythms. Nebuta Matsuri has a euphoric and energetic atmosphere which makes it stand out as an unmissable experience compared with some of Japan's more restrained festivals. At other times of the year, places like the stunning Hirosaki Castle bloom with rose-pink cherry blossom, as spring's sunshine clears away winter's plentiful snowfall. The castle's moat, glowing with the pale hue of fallen blossom, is a truly mesmerizing sight to behold. Don't worry if you are too late though, you might be able to catch the pink-flush of the apple blossom - which comes slightly later. Extraordinary prehistoric Jomon period history is waiting to be unearthed at the living archaeological site, Sannai-Maruyama Ruins. Or the untouched wilderness of UNESCO World Heritage Site Shirakami Sanchi is within reach. This sprawling mass of beech trees covers a third of the Shirakami mountain range, and the dense forestry once blanketed most of the northern Japan's land. Visit to scratch the surface of this untamed landscape's beauty and see sprawling waterfalls cascading down mountainsides, in a beautiful off-limits landscape, where black bears roam freely.

3 Included Shore Excursions
Seiryu-ji Temple & Warasse Museum

• Activity Level - Moderate
• Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 0.8 miles (1.28 kilometers), at times over uneven surfaces and inclines, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach, 45 steps at the Seiryu-ji Temple, and 30 steps at Warrase. 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. Japanese yen is required for any purchases: guests are advised to exchange money at the airport prior the cruise. Local tour guides may have strong accents, so patience and flexibility are appreciated.

Aomori Local Crafts & Tradition

• Activity Level - Moderate
• Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 0.4 miles (0.64 kilometers), with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and 15 steps at the Tsugaru Kanayama-yaki Kiln. This tour is suitable for guests with limited mobility, but is not wheelchair-accessible. Lightweight, comfortable clothing, flat, closed-toe walking shoes are recommended. Japanese yen is required for any purchases: guests are advised to exchange money at the airport prior the cruise. Local tour guides may have strong accents, so patience and flexibility are appreciated.

Aomori Art & Archeology

• Activity Level - Moderate
• Please note: This tour involves a moderate to extensive amount of walking for approximately 1.2 miles (2 kilometers) with about 100 steps to negotiate at the Aomori Museum of Art (elevator is available) and a few to get on/off the coach. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or those who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing, flat, closed-toe walking shoes are recommended. Japanese yen is required for any purchases: guests are advised to exchange money at the airport prior the cruise. Local tour guides may have strong accents, so patience and flexibility are appreciated.
• IMPORTANT NOTE: In case of closure of Aomori Museum, the tour operate with alternative program including a visit to Tsugaru Kanayama - Yaki Klin (POTTERY). In this case, the duration is extended to 4.5 hours.

Gaze down over Hakodate, from the heights of its namesake peak - Mount Hakodate - to see the city stretching out spectacularly, with back-to-back twin bays splitting the ocean. Hakodate port was one of the first to open Japan up to the world and to international trade in 1859 - a fact reflected in the architecture, with its influences from the West and beyond. The port area is a redbrick wash of warehouses turned shopping malls, all observed by the onion domes of the city's Russian Orthodox church. Elsewhere, the star-shaped Goryokaku fortress glows with natural colors and a beautiful haze of cherry blossoms during the season. Goryokaku Tower, which rises up beside it, offers a sweeping bird's eye view of the green fortress and mountain backdrop. Buses trundle up the 335-meter incline to the top of Mount Hakodate, but the best way to reach the views is to jump on the ropeway, which swings high above downtown's buildings, over a carpet of pine trees. Head up to the mountain's heights as sunset approaches. With darkness sweeping in, and the lights flickering to life, the panorama is one of Japan's most spectacular. Soak it all in, and look out to the horizon, dotted with the shimmering lights of ships hauling in harvests of the city's renowned squid. The plankton-rich waters attract a delicious variety of feasting sea life to Hakodate's coast, which is then plated up in the city's numerous, skilled restaurants. For an eye-opening, whirring morning, see the freshest produce being doled out at Hakodate Morning Market - amid a cacophony of noise and activity.

2 Included Shore Excursions
Introduction to Hakodate

• Activity Level - Moderate
• Please note: This tour involves a moderate to extensive amount of walking for approximately 1 mile (1.6 kilometers), with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach, 20 steps at the aerial cable car on Mt. Hakodate and up to 40 steps at the Goryokaku Tower. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or those who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing, and carry a sweater or windbreaker for the visit at Mt. Hakodate; you need one if you opt to walk around outside the observatory. Sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses are also recommended. Japanese yen is required for any purchases: guests are advised to exchange money at the airport prior the cruise.  The view from Goryokaku Tower and the Mt, Hakodate observatory is weather permitting. (Hakodate cable car cannot be operated due to the bad weather. In this case, the tour go up/ down to Mt. Hakodate by bus and may partially vary the tour itinerary). Local tour guides may have strong accents, so patience and flexibility are appreciated.

Hakodate Museum & Mount Hakodate

• Activity Level - Moderate
• Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 1 mile (1.6 kilometers), with 40 steps at the aerial cable car on Mt. Hakodate and up to 70 steps at the top of the mountain as well as 40 steps at the museum. This tour is suitable for guests who utilise a wheelchair but must be able to embark and disembark the coach on their own. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing, and bring a sweater or jacket as it may be cool at the summit. Japanese yen is required for any purchases: guests are advised to exchange money at the airport prior the cruise. The view from Goryokaku Tower and the Mt. Hakodate is dependent upon the weather conditions. At Hakodate City Museum of Northern Peoples, no flash photography or food is permitted inside. (Hakodate cable car cannot be operated due to the bad weather. In this case, the tour go up/ down to Mt. Hakodate by bus and may partially vary the tour itinerary). Local tour guides may have strong accents, so patience and flexibility are appreciated.

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.