Grand Circle Japan

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.

Toba is celebrated for its deep connection to the sea, particularly through its pearl diving heritage. The city is home to the Toba Sea-Folk Museum which showcases traditional fishing gear and boats, illuminating the maritime lifestyle that has defined the area for centuries. The local pearl industry, pioneered by Kokichi Mikimoto, has also left a lasting impact, with visitors able to explore Pearl Island where this revolutionary developed cultured pearls.

Aside from its marine attractions, Toba offers stunning views across Ise-Shima National Park, renowned for its rugged coastlines and sacred Shinto shrines. The area's natural beauty and tranquil settings provide a perfect backdrop for leisurely exploration or enjoying the freshest seafood straight from the waters of Ise Bay.

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.

Osaka's Tempozan Cruise Terminal is located about 15 km (9 miles) from Osaka city center, a 30-minute drive. Kyoto is roughly 60 km (37 miles) away.

If you're planning on exploring Osaka begin your visit with the iconic Osaka Castle, surrounded by lush gardens perfect for a leisurely stroll. Nearby, the Umeda Sky Building provides stunning panoramic views from its Floating Garden Observatory. For a taste of local cuisine, head to Dotonbori, a lively district renowned for its street food, neon lights, and the famous Glico running man sign. Don't miss Kuromon Ichiba Market, where you can sample fresh seafood and other local delicacies. Cap off your day with a visit to the tranquil Shitenno-ji Temple, one of Japan's oldest Buddhist temples, offering a serene escape in the heart of the city.

Begin your visit with a trip to Kochi Castle, one of Japan’s few original castles, offering panoramic views of the city. Head to Katsurahama Beach, famous for its scenic views and the statue of Sakamoto Ryoma, a revered samurai and national hero. For a taste of local cuisine, try Katsuo no Tataki, a seared bonito dish. Visit the Makino Botanical Garden to enjoy a diverse array of plants and tranquil walking paths.

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

The Kanmon Straits, a narrow passage between Japan's Honshu and Kyushu islands are steeped in history and natural beauty. This strategic waterway, bridged overhead and tunneled beneath, connects the Sea of Japan with the Inland Sea. Some 700 ships pass through it on a daily basis and underground tunnels allow both cars and pedestrians to walk between the two ports. Japan’s largest fireworks display also takes place over the strait every August, drawing more than a million sky gazers to watch the spectacular.

The strait has long played an important role in Japanese maritime history; the Shimonoseki Campaign - a series of military engagements with the US and other navies that took place here in the 1860s - ended Japanese feudal rule over the region, thus opening Japan to the West and transforming it into an international trading hub.

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.

Nagasaki, situated on the northwest coast of Kyushu, Japan, holds a profound historical significance, famously known for being the site of the second atomic bomb drop during World War II. Today, the city is a symbol of peace and resilience, with the Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum providing moving insights into the events and aftermath of 1945.

Beyond its historical sites, Nagasaki enchants with its unique blend of Japanese and Western cultural influences, seen in its architecture and local cuisine. Glover Garden showcases exquisite colonial-period homes, offering views over the picturesque harbour. The city's steep slopes and narrow streets add a charming layer to its scenic tram rides, making Nagasaki a captivating destination full of history and beauty.

Love Sabatini’s? (Or really good Italian dinners?) You’ll be happy to hear this popular specialty restaurant has returned to its roots. Think traditional Italian comfort cuisine. Our new menu embraces the old: tried-and-true family recipes our chefs brought with them from Italy, plus exquisite Italian wines and cocktails. You can even enjoy some shareable plates exclusively at Sabatini’s Trattoria.

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.

Revitalize and refresh body, mind and soul onboard Diamond Princess - from rejuvenating spa treatments and the tranquility of a top-deck retreat reserved just for adults to our state-of-the-art fitness centers, you’ll find all the elements to come back new.

Akita is the capital of Akita Prefecture, which is renowned for Akita dogs, high-quality rice and sake, and lively folk festivals. Among the area's main attractions are its natural beauty of mountains and the sea, hot springs and the town of Kakunodate, which preserves one of Japan's most interesting samurai districts. Ships will dock at the Akita Port Cruise Terminal.

Top Things to Do in Akita:

• visit the Kakunodate Samurai District
• sample sake at a local brewery
• visit Lake Tazawa, Japan's deepest lake
• take in the view from Mt. Kanpuzan

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.

Nagasaki, situated on the northwest coast of Kyushu, Japan, holds a profound historical significance, famously known for being the site of the second atomic bomb drop during World War II. Today, the city is a symbol of peace and resilience, with the Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum providing moving insights into the events and aftermath of 1945.

Beyond its historical sites, Nagasaki enchants with its unique blend of Japanese and Western cultural influences, seen in its architecture and local cuisine. Glover Garden showcases exquisite colonial-period homes, offering views over the picturesque harbour. The city's steep slopes and narrow streets add a charming layer to its scenic tram rides, making Nagasaki a captivating destination full of history and beauty.

Savour fresh sashimi at Kai Sushi, enjoy street performers in the dazzling Atrium, or catch a lavish show in the theatre. How about immersing yourself in a traditional Japanese bathing experience at the Izumi Japanese Bath, the largest at sea?

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.