Japan Intensive Cruise: Sapporo, Sakaiminato & Kobe

Tokyo, Japan's bustling capital, offers an eclectic mix of tradition and modernity. Begin your adventure with a visit to the Asakusa district, home to the ancient Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo's oldest and most significant temple. Nearby, Nakamise Street is perfect for souvenir shopping and sampling traditional snacks.

For a panoramic view of the city, head to the Tokyo Skytree, one of the world's tallest towers. Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest pedestrian intersections, is a must-see for its sheer scale and energy. To experience tranquility, visit the serene Meiji Shrine, nestled in a lush forest in Shibuya. Don't miss trying Tokyo's renowned sushi at Tsukiji Outer Market or exploring the vibrant Harajuku district for trendy fashion and unique cafes.

Tokyo, Japan's bustling capital, offers an eclectic mix of tradition and modernity. Begin your adventure with a visit to the Asakusa district, home to the ancient Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo's oldest and most significant temple. Nearby, Nakamise Street is perfect for souvenir shopping and sampling traditional snacks.

For a panoramic view of the city, head to the Tokyo Skytree, one of the world's tallest towers. Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest pedestrian intersections, is a must-see for its sheer scale and energy. To experience tranquility, visit the serene Meiji Shrine, nestled in a lush forest in Shibuya. Don't miss trying Tokyo's renowned sushi at Tsukiji Outer Market or exploring the vibrant Harajuku district for trendy fashion and unique cafes.

Yokohama Port serves as a gateway for travelers heading to Tokyo, located approximately 30 kms (about 19 miles) north of the port. The journey to Tokyo can take around 30 to 45 minutes by train. The Osanbashi Yokohama International Passenger Terminal is the main docking site for cruise ships. The most efficient way to travel is by train, with the Minatomirai Line directly connecting Yokohama to Shibuya, a major hub in Tokyo. This allows visitors to easily access famous sights such as the Shibuya Crossing, Meiji Shrine, and the vibrant district of Shinjuku. Given the limited time typical of cruise stopovers, planning ahead to prioritize which attractions to visit is advisable.

Sendai, the largest city in Japan’s Tohoku region, is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and lush green spaces. Often called the "City of Trees," Sendai offers a harmonious blend of urban and natural beauty. The city’s iconic Sendai Castle, also known as Aoba Castle, provides stunning views of the city and a glimpse into its feudal past.

The Zuihoden Mausoleum, the resting place of the powerful samurai lord Date Masamune, showcases exquisite craftsmanship and historical significance. Sendai is also famous for its Tanabata Festival, one of Japan’s most celebrated festivals, featuring colourful decorations and lively parades. With its mix of historical sites, cultural festivities, and scenic beauty, Sendai is a fascinating destination in Japan.

Miyako, located on the eastern coast of Honshu in Iwate Prefecture, Japan, is a city known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. The dramatic coastline of Jodogahama Beach, with its pristine white pebbles and clear blue waters, is a major attraction, offering breathtaking views and a peaceful retreat.

Miyako is also home to the Sanriku Fukko National Park, where visitors can explore the rugged landscape and observe diverse wildlife. The city has a deep connection to its maritime roots, evident in its fresh seafood cuisine, with local delicacies like sea urchin and abalone being particularly popular. The Miyako Fish Market is an excellent place to experience the local flavours and vibrant atmosphere.

Hakodate is one of the most popular city destinations in Japan. Here you can experience diverse dynastic architecture, the last Shogun battlefield and enjoy shimmering night views from Mount Hakodate. Located along Hokkaido's southwestern tip, you can immerse yourself in history within the star-shaped walls of Fort Goryokaku and explore the site of famous battles that transformed Japan.

Enjoy a mouth-watering seafood rice bowl (kaisen-don) from the Hakodate Morning Market and then relax with a soak in the Yunokawa hot springs on Hakodate's outskirts.

Otaru, located on the northwest coast of Hokkaido, Japan, is a charming port city known for its well-preserved architecture and scenic canals. The Otaru Canal, lined with historic warehouses, is a popular attraction, especially beautiful when illuminated at night. A stroll along the canal offers a glimpse into the city's past as a bustling trade hub.

The city is also famous for its glassworks, music boxes, and sake distilleries. Visitors can explore the Otaru Music Box Museum and the Kitaichi Glassworks to experience the local craftsmanship. The vibrant Sakaimachi Street, with its array of shops and cafes, is perfect for enjoying local delicacies and shopping for unique souvenirs. With its blend of history, culture, and picturesque scenery, Otaru is a delightful destination in Japan.

Spend the day sailing in style aboard your boutique hotel at sea. Indulge in a treatment at Sanctum Spa, stay ship shape with a class at our fitness center, or lounge the day away on our sunny pool deck. In the evening, savor inspired Italian cuisine at Aqualina, or relish in a classic steakhouse experience at Prime C. Plus, you’ll find plenty of exciting evening entertainment, from thrilling shows at Cabaret Lounge to intimate performances in the Living Room.

Toyama, nestled between the Northern Japan Alps and the Sea of Japan, is renowned for its spectacular natural landscapes and culinary excellence. The city is a gateway to Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, famous for its Snow Wall or "Yuki no Otani" that offers a breathtaking experience especially in spring. Toyama’s coast is also known for its rich seafood, with the Toyama Bay offering some of the freshest sushi in Japan, particularly the revered firefly squid.

In the heart of the city, Toyama Castle Park provides a serene escape with its historic castle, beautifully manicured gardens, and museum detailing the region's feudal past. The park transforms during cherry blossom season, becoming a picturesque spot for enjoying the fleeting beauty of sakura.

The port of Tsuruga has long been a vital gateway for trade and cultural exchange. One of the city’s most poignant historical sites is the Tsuruga Red Brick Warehouse, which now serves as a museum highlighting Tsuruga’s role in welcoming Jewish refugees during World War II. The city is also home to Kehi Jingu Shrine, one of the oldest Shinto shrines in Japan, known for its majestic torii gate. Tsuruga’s waterfront is perfect for leisurely strolls, with beautiful views of the bay.

Sakaiminato, nestled on the western tip of Japan's Tottori Prefecture, serves as a gateway to the enchanting world of Japanese folklore and seafood delicacies. The city is renowned for its association with Mizuki Shigeru, the celebrated manga artist behind "GeGeGe no Kitaro," which is vividly brought to life along the Mizuki Shigeru Road, adorned with over 100 bronze statues of the series' characters.

For culinary adventurers, the Sakaiminato Fish Market offers a fresh glimpse into Japan's vibrant seafood culture, with opportunities to savor local specialties like crab and squid. Nearby, the Adachi Museum of Art, famous for its stunning Japanese gardens and impressive collection of contemporary Japanese paintings, offers a serene retreat for art lovers

Known for its beaches, mountains and temples, Busan is a large port city in South Korea. Enjoy the Haeundae Beach with its Sea Life Aquarium and Folk Square with traditional games such as tug-of-war or head to Gwangalli Beach for bars and views of modern Diamond Bridge.

Top Things to Do in Busan:

• Shop at Centum Shinsegae Department Store; the world’s largest!
• Enjoy the street art and food on a walking tour of the pastel-coloured Gamcheon Village.
• Explore Haedong Yonggungsa Temple and grounds, located at the top of a huge rock rising from the ocean
• Visit the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage area Gyeongju, south east of the city.

Kitakyushu, located on Japan's Kyushu Island, is a vibrant city known for its industrial heritage and scenic beauty. The city boasts the impressive Kokura Castle, a beautifully reconstructed feudal castle surrounded by lush gardens and a tranquil moat. Nearby, the Riverwalk Kitakyushu complex offers shopping, dining, and cultural experiences with views of the Murasaki River.

Kitakyushu is also home to the Mojiko Retro District, a charming area with preserved early 20th-century buildings, museums, and waterfront promenades. The city’s green spaces, such as the Kawachi Fujien Wisteria Garden, famous for its stunning wisteria tunnels, provide a peaceful retreat. With its mix of historical sites, modern amenities, and natural beauty, Kitakyushu offers a diverse range of attractions for visitors.

The unforgettable city that was the first ever target of an atomic bomb, Hiroshima has emerged from its tragedy as a vibrant and thriving community. Now known as the 'City of Peace', it is a bustling metropolis dotted with leafy parks, ancient shrines and traditional castles standing next to modern skyscrapers. Ships will dock at the Port of Hiroshima.

Top Things to Do in Hiroshima:

• walk through the Peach Memorial Park
• visit the UNESCO site, Itsukushima Shrine
• explore the Mazda Museum
• admire the Hiroshima Castle and Gardens

Kyoto, Japan's former imperial capital, is renowned for its classical temples, traditional wooden houses, and beautiful gardens. Begin your exploration at Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of red torii gates. Next, head to Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, a stunning Zen temple whose top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf.

For a taste of traditional culture, visit the Gion district, where you might glimpse geishas in their exquisite kimonos. Don’t forget to indulge in Kyoto’s renowned cuisine, including matcha-flavored treats and kaiseki, a multi-course dining experience.

Kobe is a maritime gateway to one of Japan's most metropolitan cities. Mt. Rokko dominates the skyline - from the summit, you can glimpse one of the best views in all Japan. Of course, Kobe's also famous for breeding Wagyu cows that produce some of the highest-quality beef in the world!

Top Things to Do in Kobe:

• visit historic Himeji Castle, a huge edifice built entirely of wood and tiles
• enjoy a hot spring bath in Arima Onsen
• hang out with the locals at Nankingmachi Square, home to street-style Kobe beef à la carte
  

Kyoto, Japan's former imperial capital, is renowned for its classical temples, traditional wooden houses, and beautiful gardens. Begin your exploration at Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of red torii gates. Next, head to Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, a stunning Zen temple whose top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf.

For a taste of traditional culture, visit the Gion district, where you might glimpse geishas in their exquisite kimonos. Don’t forget to indulge in Kyoto’s renowned cuisine, including matcha-flavored treats and kaiseki, a multi-course dining experience.

Kobe is a maritime gateway to one of Japan's most metropolitan cities. Mt. Rokko dominates the skyline - from the summit, you can glimpse one of the best views in all Japan. Of course, Kobe's also famous for breeding Wagyu cows that produce some of the highest-quality beef in the world!

Top Things to Do in Kobe:

• visit historic Himeji Castle, a huge edifice built entirely of wood and tiles
• enjoy a hot spring bath in Arima Onsen
• hang out with the locals at Nankingmachi Square, home to street-style Kobe beef à la carte