Grand Circumnavigation of Japan

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-luxury cruise. Please book your flight to arrive into Sapporo prior to 02:00 PM. (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 seen 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, harbour and 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)

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 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, or learn about the Edo Period in Hirosaki. (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 of Japan's most important cities for culture and art. Supplying 99% of Japan's 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 city'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)

Located in Tottori Prefecture the city lies beneath the dominate feature in the sky to the east, Mt. Daisen also known as ‘mini-Fuji'. Throughout Sakaiminato you will see characters from one of Japan's most beloved manga comics, whose author comes from the town. Images of the main character, Kitaro and various monsters from the series form statue and whose images can be seen emblazoned on everything from trains and buses to vending machines and packaging. Also well-known is the Sakaiminato's bridge due to its steep ramps, which look almost impossible to climb when viewed from different angles.

Freechoice: Visit the volcanic Mount Daisen or enjoy a city tour, learning of the history manga comics. Alternatively explore the samurai district of Matsue or the Grand Shrine of Izumo, one of Japan's most important shrines. (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)

This morning board the KTX bullet train and travel to Busan. 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. 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-luxury cruise. (B/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)

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)

Enjoy breakfast on your verandah or at one of the 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). Shimizu 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 the main highlights of Tokyo, or walk through the fantastic collection of folk architecture at the open air museum. Choose to explore the picturesque Shinjuku-Gyoen and Imperial Gardens, or visit Shinjuku and the Imperial Shinto Meiji Shrine before walking across the busiest pedestrian crossing in the world in Shibuya. Alternatively, try your hands a sushi cooking class.

Enrich: Experience the Japanese culture at a cocktail function with a Shinto ceremony and a sake Kagami-biraki ceremony at a local shrine. (B/L/D)

Spend the day at leisure exploring the various amenities of your luxurious Discovery Yacht. Tempt your palate at one of the dining experiences or unwind in Senses Spa. (B/L/D)

Outstanding natural beauty and shared cultural history await for you in Hachinohe. Located on the main Japanese island of Honshu, Hachinohe's enchanting coastline and natural splendour is known as being an inspiration for countless artists, writers and creatives. Believed to be inhabited since the Jomon Era, some 20,000 years ago, there is a great historical and cultural significance surrounding the area. (B/L/D)

Muroran is a manufacturing town with beautiful scenery and delicious food. Gentle slopes surrounding provide the perfect place to stroll, listening for the chirping birds, murmuring rivers and the fresh scent of flowers. Take the time to taste the curry ramen, known to have an unbelievably delicious and addictive taste. (B/L/D)

Welcome to Otaru. Disembark from Scenic Eclipse after breakfast as you farewell the crew and take away memories of a truly unforgettable cruise. Please book your flight to depart out of Sapporo after 12:00 PM. The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the cruise will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information. (B)