Ultimate Japan Circumnavigation

Welcome to the lively harbour town of Otaru. Transfer to Scenic Eclipse where your journey into wonder begins with a warm greeting by the crew as you step on board. Raise your glass this evening and toast the start of your ultra-luxurious cruise. (D)

Superb seafood, riveting modern art and the world's largest virgin beech forest, Aomori is a hidden gem that is starting to find its place on the map. This ultra-modern port was rebuilt after World War II, and is filled with attractions that will reveal a different side of Japan. Just outside of Aomori, the archaeological dig site Sannai Maruyama, the largest and best preserved from the Jomon era (13,000-300 BC) provides a rare look into the nation’s ancient history.

Freechoice: Experience the charm of the Aomori Nebuta Festival at the Nebuta Warasse museum, or visit the Sannai Maruyama Archaeological Site one of the most complete and best preserved Jomon Period villages in Japan. Choose to explore the Hakkodamaru Memorial?Ship, or learn about the Edo Period in Hirosaki. (B/L/D)

Located on the southern tip of the island of Hokkaido, Hakodate was one of the first ports that opened to international trade. The international influence can be traced in the sophisticated architectural styles juxtaposed against the city’s traditional temples. One of the most underrated Japanese cities, Hakodate is well-known for the panoramic views from Mount Hakodate that encompasses the city, the harbour and the mountains in the distance. If you’re feeling adventurous, take the time to taste Hakodate’s signature salty Hakodate Ramen, rumoured to be the first ramen dish in Japan.

Freechoice: Discover the history of Goryokaku, or view the city from above as you ride the cable car up Mount Hakodate. Explore Onuma Quasi-National Park, or walk around the Hakodate Asaichi (Morning Market). Discovery: Hike up the active volcano Mt. Esan. (B/L/D)

Sado is believed to have been inhabited for over 10,000 years, and even finds mention in Japanese creation stories. Sado Island is a miniature Japan, showcasing every kind of coastal landform seen in Japan and a blend of cultures introduced by previous exiles to the island. Explore the Geopark, where the gold and silver mines, the taraibune (tub boat) and the nurtured rice farms are all deeply entrenched in the landscapes. While on the island, keep your eyes peeled for the crested ibis. Previously extinct in Japan, the Japanese Ibis (toki) was reintroduced to Sado Island through a successful breeding program, and several hundred now exist in the wild. Freechoice: Learn the history of the largest gold mine in Japan, Sado Kinzan, or explore the small town of Ogi. (B/L/D)

Exceptional historical sites, traditional cuisine, renowned art museums and refined craftwork. Throughout history Kanazawa, meaning ‘the golden marsh’, has been one Japans most important cities for culture and art. Supplying 99% of Japans gold leaf, Kanazawa is also known to have one of the best and most beautiful landscape gardens in Japan. Spacious and secluded, it forms the green heart of this compact city. Freechoice: Explore the famed Kenrokuen Garden and Kanazawa Castle, or learn the history of the Nagamachi Samurai District. Alternatively, see authentic Japan in this historic village Gokayama. Enrich: Enjoy a walk through the Higahsi Chaya District before having the opportunity to learn about what is involved in becoming a Geisha and the art of Japanese hospitality. (B/L/D)

With a Naval history from 1901, Maizuru was the main port in Japan to receive repatriated soldiers after World War II. Home to the Japanese Navy Base, the closest to North Korea, local fisherman to this day report any suspicious boats who they believe may be North Korean spies.

Taste the citiy’s official dish nikujaga (meat-and-potato stew), dedicated to the legacy of the Imperial Japanese Navy’s Fleet Admiral Togo, who became famous for destroying nearly two-thirds of Russia’s fleet in the Battle of Tsushima. Freechoice: Explore Maizuru’s Amanohashidate sandbar and learn the naval history at Red Brick Park, or see traditional thatched roof farmhouses in Miyama. Alternatively, drive to Kyoto to see the Golden Temple, and choose to visit the Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, Tenryu-ji Temple or Nijo Castle. (B/L/D)

Hagi is best known for its preserved former castle town, being fortunate enough to avoid all major disasters since the Edo Period. Located on the South Western corner of Honshu facing the Sea of Japan, this small town has a fascinating history. Wander through the small streets lined with cross-hatched namako walls and samurai houses, stunning castle ruins and traditional potteries. (B/L/D)

A tapestry of colours rolling across the magnificent natural setting, Busan is where the locals go for a relaxing getaway, thanks to its laid-back atmosphere, urban beaches, and great street food culture. South Korea’s second largest city represents a harmonious relationship between the calm sea, snaking rivers and lush mountains. Freechoice: Visit Tongdosa, one of the most important temples in Korea, or explore the Jagalchi Fish Market. (B/L/D)

Offering great historic insights into Japanese culture, Matsuyama is cradled between gorgeous green mountains and the peaceful Seto Inland Sea. At the heart of city is one of Japan's twelve originally surviving castles, the Bitchu-Matsuyama Castle. Today, walk through the castle and view the displays explaining the history of the castle and the efforts to preserve it. Admire the views over the town from this mountaintop castle. (B/L/D)

Known for the devastating atomic bomb blast that ravaged the city and its inspiring status today as a symbol of peace and rebirth, Hiroshima is a destination steeped in history and outstanding natural beauty. Walking around the Peace Memorial Park is a moving experience, with monuments located throughout the tranquil ‘island’ including the World Heritage listed Atomic Bomb Dome, which survived complete destruction, and made use of nature to reaffirm the value of all life.

Today, visit the Miyajima Island and the floating Torii Gate at the Itsukushima Shrine. This afternoon, walk around the Peace Memorial Park. This is a moving experience, with monuments located throughout the tranquil ‘island’ including the World Heritage listed Atomic Bomb Dome, which survived complete destruction, and made use of nature to reaffirm the value of all life. (B/L/D)

The port of Uno will immediately immerse you in local works of art. Uno is the gateway to Okayama, home to stunning gardens and an imposing castle. Today, walk in one of Japans most beautiful landscape gardens, Koraku-en Garden, constructed in 1687 as a place of entertainment for the ruling family. Explore Okayama Castle, originally built in 1597 before being reconstructed after World War II in 1966. (B/L/D)

Welcome to the bustling Osaka, enjoy a day at leisure. (B/L/D)

Crisscrossed with fast-flowing rivers and mountain trails, Shingu is a small seaside city located in Wakayama's sacred south. Nestling inside verdant mountains, this secret place is a treasure trove of lush greenery and a unique religious culture. Shingu is home to many UNESCO World Heritage sites, including one of the three Kumano Sanzan Shrines connected by the network of Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes, prominently standing out on the riverbanks with its bold red colouring and sweeping roofs. Freechoice: Explore the shrines of Shingu, before the Doro-kyo Gorge, or discover the Sacred Land of Kumano and the Nachi Falls. (B/L/D)

Take your breakfast on your verandah or at the many outdoor dining venues this morning as you sail into Shimizu. You will soon see why it is considered one of Japan’s most beautiful ports, with Mount Fuji dominating the horizon, and history dating back to the Nara Period (710-784). Shimzu is blessed with stunning natural scenery such as the Shiraito Falls flowing in thin white streams from the foothills of Mount Fuji, and rich Japanese culture and history reflected throughout the bright red buildings and gold accents. Freechoice: Open Shizuoka’s treasure box with this excursion to Fujisan Hongu Sengen-taisha Shrine, Shiraito Falls, and Mihono Matsubara, or discover the culture of Shimizu at the Tokaido Hiroshige Art Museum. Alternatively, visit the Fuji Five Lake region, at the hot springs st Qwakudani Geothermal Area followed by a cruise on Lake Ashinoko. (B/L/D)

Welcome to the city that captivates. With some neighbourhoods shining bright with neon lights and filled with futuristic architecture, others boasting glowing lanterns and traditional wooden buildings, and dozens of art galleries and cocktail bars hidden amidst concrete blocks, no two experiences in Tokyo are the same. Previously a small castle town, and now the world’s most populous metropolis, this capital city is always on the move and buzzing with energy. With Scenic Eclipse docked overnight, experience the best of Tokyo by both day and night.

Freechoice: Visit teamLab Borderless, a world of artworks without boundaries, or walk through the fantastic collection of folk architecture. Learn about the Edo Period at the Architectural Museum. Choose to explore the picturesque Shinjuku-Gyoen Gardens, or visit the Imperial Shinto Meiji Shrine before walking across the busiest pedestrian crossing in the world. Alternatively, see one of the most colourful temples, Sensji Temple. Enrich: Experience the Japanese culture with a Saki Drum ceremony, before an exclusive performance. (B/L/D)

Continue exploring Tokyo. (B/L/D)

Known as the green city by the sea, this tree lined regional city was founded in the 1600s by Date Masamune. One of Japan’s most powerful feudal lords, his pure black regaliais rumoured to be the inspiration behind Darth Vader’s armour. Immerse yourself into the samurai history, displayed through the traditional black and gold architectural treasurers and well-preserved historical sites. Freechoice: Cruise on the Matsushima Bay, and walk to the Zuiganji Temple, or visit the Nobiru Museum before exploring Ishinomaki. Choose to relax at the Sakunami Onsen, or admire the Naruko Gorge and Chusonji Temple. (B/L/D)

Relaxation beckons, and with so many choices on board you will be surprised how quickly time passes on board. Choose one of the daily activities, join an entertaining discussion in the theatre or relax in the Senses Spa as you sail to Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, with cities nestled between mountains, and unspoilt primeval forests. (B/L/D)

Welcome to Kushiro, home to Japan’s largest marshland, Kushiro Shitsugen, and some of the most pristine wildlife habitats in the country. Keep an eye out for the rare, graceful, and auspicious red-crowned crane. The most populous city in eastern Hokkaido was previously an industrial port, and came to life thanks to its harbour and its status as the gateway to the National Parks close by. Discovery: Explore the National Park with your Discovery Team. (B/L/D)

Enjoy a relaxed day at sea on board Scenic Eclipse. There is ample time to rejuvenate. Why not choose a class in one of the fitness spaces or try one of the therapy lounges in Senses Spa. (B/L/D)

Abashiri has rolling hills and fields filled with flowers of every hue, although being located on one of the most northerly parts of Japan with very cold winters led to it being used as a penal colony in the days of old. Freechoice: Tour the Abashiri Prison Museum and learn of the historical background of the buildings and ancient prison relics, or choose to visit Hokkaido Museum of Northern Peoples and see galleries dedicated to indigenous cultures, including the Ainu indigenous group. (B/L/D)

Located on the southern tip of Sakhalin Island with a tumultuous history , Korsakov is now a picture of tranquillity. Explore the fascinating town, with Russian and Japanese structures mixed in with modern buildings and museums. (B/L/D)

Disembark from Scenic Eclipse after breakfast as you farewell the crew and take away memories of a truly unforgettable cruise. The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the tour will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information. (B)