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The Chairman's Voyage: Japan's Southern Islands & Cultural Heritage

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 Cruise Length
17 Days
 Cruise Starts
Taipei
 Cruise Finishes
Tokyo
17 Day The Chairman's Voyage: Japan's Southern Islands & Cultural Heritage Itinerary (Scenic)
Countries Explored: Taiwan, Japan, South Korea
Cruise Line
Scenic
Ship
Passengers
228
Crew
176
Launched
2023
Cruise Code
901A-1

Overview

Discover the verdant, Pacific-fringed beauty and fascinating culture of Japan’s southern islands on a 17-day luxury voyage on board Scenic Eclipse from Taipei to Tokyo. Explore the exquisite natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of Japan’s southern coastlines as you discover diverse destinations sailing on the 6-star ultra-luxury Scenic Eclipse. From the Yaeyama Islands in Japan’s remote south to the Mt Fuji-dominated port of Shimizu on bustling Honshu, revel in lush landscapes, forested mountains, and inviting, crystalline waters. Sail into captivating harbours, where you’ll uncover local...read more life and ancient customs, sample delicious culinary traditions, and admire historic feudal castles and religious monuments.

Over 17 thrilling days, meet long-lived locals in Okinawa, learn about the impact of war on Hiroshima, and learn fascinating stories of the female pearl divers of Toba. Sailing in unsurpassed ultra-luxury on board Scenic Eclipse where your days will be elegantly underscored by bespoke hospitality and enriching experiences every step of the way.

Itinerary

Your ultra-luxury exploration of Japan’s southern islands begins today in the historical Taiwanese city of Keelung (Taipei). Be warmly greeted on board Scenic Eclipse II with a glass of Champagne. Then, take some time to settle into your luxurious verandah suite, test out the Scenic Slumber bed and pick the perfect pillow from the plush pillow menu. Your personal butler will be on hand to assist you if you have any questions. Make your way up to the Sky Bar on Deck 10 for a sail away cocktail with stunning views.

Please book your flight to arrive into Taipei prior to 02:00 PM. (D)

This morning, wake-up to find Ishigaki Island beckoning from your balcony in a dazzling spectrum of blue-green hues. Part of the Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park, the island is home to Japan’s southernmost city and is the gateway to the captivating Yaeyama Islands.

Enjoy a relaxed and delicious breakfast in the privacy of your ultra-luxury suite or share the inspiring views with your fellow guests at the Yacht Club. You may choose to revel in the sun, sea and vibrant coral reef of the island’s southern coastline; take a gentle hike to the north-east Hirakubo Peninsula or stroll the fascinating city centre. Then, back on board, relish a refined and elegant meal at French fine dining and Champagne bar, Lumière. (B/L/D)

Spend the morning indulging your body and reviving your mind in the 550sqm Senses Spa, unwinding in the expert hands of dedicated spa practitioners. This afternoon, feel restored and ready to plunge into the gem-like waters of Zamami Island in the Kerama Island group.

This evening, join newly made friends in the impeccable Scenic Lounge Bar to compare trip notes and relive the day’s experiences over a selection of all-inclusive premium beverages, including more than 100 varieties of whiskeys. (B/L/D)

Rich with tradition and fascinating history, Okinawa has a captivating heritage enhanced by its breathtaking Pacific-hemmed beauty. Explore the prefectural capital of Naha to discover this former epicentre of the Ryukyu Kingdom. You may visit Kokusai Street to shop for mementos and absorb the vibrant local culture, or perhaps learn more about the Shuri Castle and the historic precinct.

Alternatively, enjoy a swim in the shimmering ocean before retreating to the inviting sanctuary and impeccable amenities of your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht. Enjoy your elegantly appointed suite while you prepare for an engaging private teppanyaki experience at Night Market @ Koko’s, or any of the other up to 10 on board dining experiences this evening. (B/L/D)

Awaken to the luxurious haven of your 6-star suite to watch the sun dance across the crystalline waters of World Heritage-listed site Amami Oshima. The largest island in the Satsunan chain, Amami Oshima is an unspoiled haven for a diverse eco-system of endemic flora and fauna.

As we sail onwards, dedicate your afternoon to wellness with a mindful practice in the Senses Spa located on Deck 7. Exhale in the sauna or plunge into a temperature-controlled pool to invigorate your senses as you gaze upon the expanse of the ocean beyond. (B/L/D)

Relish a morning coffee on your private verandah as you admire the dramatic landscape of Kagoshima on your journey toward the city. At the southern tip of Kyushu, Mount Sakurajima volcano rises dramatically from the ocean, keeping watch over Kagoshima and painting a handsome and attention-stealing backdrop.

Unearth the feudal history and explore the palm-lined streets of Kagoshima or opt to spend the day on board, appreciating the stunning aspects of Sakurajima from the elegant Sky Bar. Take in the sun in a secluded cabana, revive with a dip in the Vitality Pool, and sip your favourite cocktail from the bar. (B/L/D)

This morning you will again greet the Land of the Rising Sun as you arrive early at the beautiful city of Nagasaki on the island of Kyushu.

While Nagasaki has a long and prosperous history of international trade, its modern history has largely been overshadowed by World War II. The second site to suffer the catastrophic effects of the atomic bomb, the city has been rebuilt and reforged with resilience and optimism. Unravel that journey of rebirth at one of the many moving museums and memorials, such as Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum, Peace Park, and National Peace Memorial Hall. You’ll also revel in a deeper past at the Nagasaki Museum of History and Culture and the Suwa-jinja shrine.

Later this afternoon, enjoy a cocktail from the Sky Bar on Deck 10 as we sail under the Megami Bridge. Tonight Scenic Eclipse remains in Nagasaki before sailing to Hashima Island in the morning. (B/L/D)

Today your journey unveils the magnetic beauty of Jeju Island. A destination sure to pique the interest of nature-lovers, this is the largest island in South Korea and well-loved in the region for its enchanting sunrises and sunsets, magical coastlines, idyllic waterfalls and the majestic Hallasan Mountain.

Immerse yourself within the shimmering shallows of the turquoise ocean or explore the local culture at one of the many museums. Back onboard, find the perfect position at one of the sophisticated restaurants and bars or the Observation Deck for an unrivalled view of the dazzling Jeju sunset, which pairs perfectly with a cocktail in hand. For quieter viewing, have your butler deliver your favourite wine to your suite and take in the majestic glow on your secluded verandah. (B/L/D)

Bask in the unrivalled ultra-luxury of your Discovery Yacht this morning. With only up to 228 guests, Scenic Eclipse offers an exceptionally intimate cruising experience, with ample spaces to reflect on your unforgettable journey so far and plan your exploration of Kitakyushu today.

Watch the Pacific slip by from the supreme comfort of the Observation Deck as you arrive into port this afternoon. The northernmost city of Kyushu, Kitakyushu has long been a significant hub of international trade. An enthralling medley of traditional culture and industry, the city is an important gateway between the islands of Kyushu and Honshu. (B/L/D)

Arriving into port this morning, your day may begin with a moment of reflection on a visit to Hiroshima. Perhaps one of the most significant sites of modern warfare, this city ravaged by the atomic bomb during World War II has risen to become a living symbol of peace and rebirth. Enrobed in sombre history, inspiring perspective, and striking natural beauty, Hiroshima is a destination you will long remember. Visit the Peace Memorial Park and World Heritage listed Atomic Bomb Dome, where you can absorb the importance of Hiroshima’s history and admire the city’s determination to endure and overcome.

Return aboard in time for a long, leisurely lunch at one of the refined and relaxed eateries, such as Azure Bar & Café or the Yacht Club, as you journey toward the small island of Miyajima this afternoon. Well-loved for its serene, water hemmed views, Miyajima (which translates to ‘Shrine Island’ in Japanese) is known for its Itsukushima shrine and enormous torii gate, which, at high tide, appears to float above the water. (B/L/D)

Salute the sun as it rises over the water this morning during a yoga class at PURE: Yoga & Pilates Studio or, perhaps, opt for a lie-in amid the Egyptian cotton sheets of our signature Scenic Slumber Beds. Relish the ultra-luxury of your suite with a bespoke breakfast delivered to your verandah by your butler before spending the day discovering the unrelenting beauty of mountainous Matsuyama on the island of Shikoku.

Return to Scenic Eclipse in time for a sundowner and enjoy your favourite cocktail, prepared to perfection by our world-class bar staff. (B/L/D)

Take advantage of Scenic Eclipse's unique open bridge policy to appreciate the sunrise alongside the crew, enjoying unrivalled access to the ship's ultimate viewing area. Learn about the supreme technical abilities of The World’s First Discovery YachtTM as you approach Kochi on Shikoku Island.

Return to your Discovery Yacht and settle into one of the nine bars and lounges on board, where you might try a new premium wine from the extensive and elegant list curated by Scenic’s Master of Wine. Or toast another day of wonder in the singular luxury of your exquisitely appointed suite with a beverage from the all-inclusive minibar. (B/L/D)

Arrive this morning in the harbour city of Kobe on the island of Honshu. Compact and condensed between the sea and the Rokko mountain range, Kobe has a long history of maritime trade. Yet, despite its centuries-old role as a significant port, beautiful Kobe is a modern-looking city, having been completely rebuilt following a devastating earthquake in 1995. You may choose to explore on your own to learn more about this event at the Earthquake Museum.

If you prefer to spend the afternoon in the ultra-luxury of your Discovery Yacht, retreat for a touch of tranquillity at the expansive Senses Spa and indulge in a massage or treatment^, or refresh with a haircut at the salon. (B/L/D)

Position yourself on a plush sofa at the Yacht Club or on your spacious, ocean-view verandah to watch the coastal city of Shingu slowly reveal itself as you savour a lavish breakfast. Contemplate a leisurely start to the day with an enlivening swim at the Vitality Pool or prepare to explore the lush landscape of Wakayama’s southern city.

After a day deep-diving into Shingu’s richly layered offerings, return to your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht for an evening of leisure in your beautifully appointed suite. Delight in 6-star culinary experiences before joining fellow passengers for a musical performance in the state-of-the-art theatre. (B/L/D)

Awaken today in the pretty, pearlescent Toba on the Shima Peninsula in Mie Prefecture. This small city is enrobed by the Ise-Shima National Park and rotates through a seasonal spectrum of colours from the soft pink of cherry blossoms in spring, to the vivid greens of summer vegetation, and the red-and-gold hues of autumn. Toba is perhaps best-known for its oyster and pearling industries, particularly its female pearl divers, or ‘ama’.

Spend another indulgent evening on board Scenic Eclipse watching the ocean darken with nightfall as you enjoy a cocktail at the Observation Deck or Panorama Bar. (B/L/D)

This morning, request breakfast to be served on your 6-star suite, and have your camera on-hand to photograph your sail toward the small but stunning town of Shimizu.

Discover rich Japanese culture and history at nearby shrines, stroll the centre of town to immerse in local life, and admire the World Heritage-Listed site and highest peak in Japan, mighty Mount Fuji.

Return to your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht to dine with new friends at one of the 10 all-inclusive exquisite culinary experiences on board. Toast to new memories, share your experiences, and celebrate your last night on Scenic Eclipse. (B/L/D)

Today you'll arrive in the fascinating, futuristic and bustling city of Tokyo. The final day of your exceptional journey demands a sense of occasion with a Champagne breakfast served in your suite. Disembark 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 cruise will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information. (B)

Life Onboard Scenic Eclipse II

Luxury Meets Discovery
Luxury Meets Discovery

Designed to deliver the ultimate experience of a lifetime the Scenic Eclipse II takes ocean cruising to a whole new level. Read more

On board Inclusions
On board Inclusions

Intimate and luxurious, with every amenity you could wish for, the Scenic Eclipse fleet has been designed with you in mind. Read more

Onshore Inclusions
Onshore Inclusions

Taking you beyond exploration to all-inclusive discovery is our fleet of Zodiacs, tandem kayaks, e-bikes, snorkel gear and snowshoes. Read more

All-Inclusive Dining
All-Inclusive Dining

Dining on board Scenic Eclipse promises to be a sensory delight. With an unrivalled choice of up to 10 dining experiences. Read more

All-Inclusive Beverages
All-Inclusive Beverages

Unlimited complimentary beverages*, full mini-bar restocked daily, still and sparkling water in-suite and an extensive range of specialty teas and coffees. Read more

Scenic Sixth Star Experience
Scenic Sixth Star Experience

Helicopter and submarine excursions, par for the course. Read more

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Brochure

Eclipse Australia & The Pacific

Scenic Eclipse Australia & The Pacific (2024-25)

Join us for the voyage of a lifetime, through the most pristine destinations in Australia and the South Pacific. Delve into the heart of remarkable landscapes and idyllic islands, where exclusive itineraries and unparalleled experiences await. From the colourful underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef to enjoying drinks on remote white sand beaches,...more every moment of these meticulously crafted voyages will leave you in awe.

Availability Click on prices below to view cabin upgrades and details

Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Scenic. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Scenic. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

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