Harvest Horizons: Japan's Coastal Charms

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.

Make yourself at home with delightful daily diversions that add to our fleet’s private yacht-like atmosphere. Embrace this moment and indulge – spending the day pampering yourself in the spa or soaking in a Pure Pampering ℠ bath drawn by your attentive suite host. Meditate upon the vast views that surround you from a yoga mat, the ship’s bow, or your private veranda.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

Sakata, nestled in the Yamagata Prefecture of Japan, seamlessly blends historical elegance with natural beauty. This coastal city is historically significant for its role as a prosperous port during the Edo period, a heritage that is still palpable in the preserved merchant houses and old storehouses, now converted into museums and galleries. One notable site is the Sankyo Warehouse, which offers a glimpse into Sakata's past trading prowess.

Surrounding the city, the beauty of the Mogami River and nearby Mount Chokai enhances Sakata's scenic landscape. The local cuisine, particularly seafood, reflects the city’s coastal location and is a must-try for visitors. Additionally, the annual Sakata Fireworks Festival lights up the summer sky, combining traditional and contemporary Japanese culture in a spectacular display.

Honshu's northernmost city is full of picturesque historic temples, museums, and close to incredible nature like Mt. Hakkoda. In the spring and summer, Aomori bursts to life with cherry blossom festivals and the fiery Nebuta Festival every August. Ships dock at the Shin-Chuo wharf.

Top Things to Do in Aomori:

• visit the Hirosaki Castle town
• take the aerial tramway up Mt. Hakkoda
• see the grand buddha at Seiryuu-ji Temple
• visit the Nebuta Warasse Museum
• cruise on Lake Towada

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.

Miyako-Jima is celebrated for its spectacular coastal landscapes and warm subtropical climate. This island is ringed with some of the most beautiful coral reefs in the world, offering unparalleled opportunities for snorkelling and diving. The clear, turquoise waters of beaches like Sunayama Beach and Yonaha Maehama Beach are ideal for those seeking relaxation and stunning ocean vistas.

The island also boasts a rich cultural heritage, evident in traditional events like the Paantu festival, where locals smear mud on each other for good luck and purification. For those interested in history and craftsmanship, the Miyakojima City Museum and local distilleries producing Awamori, a traditional Ryukyuan alcoholic beverage, provide insightful experiences.

Hirara, situated on Miyako Island in Japan, offers a quaint and scenic entry point for cruise visitors. The port is conveniently located and provides easy access to the town's attractions. The city is bustling with activity, featuring traditional markets where visitors can taste local delicacies such as Miyako Soba and tropical fruits.

The Miyakojima City Museum also provides insights into the island's history and culture. Visit the stunning nearby beaches of Maehama Beach and Yoshino Beach, renowned for their crystal-clear waters and excellent snorkelling conditions.

Each Seabourn ship offers a choice of dining venues to suit your mood of the moment. All dining venues are complimentary, and nearly all are open-seating, inviting you to dine where, when, and with whom you wish. Complimentary fine wines are poured with lunch and dinner, and there is never an extra charge for any dining choice. You can even enjoy a meal in your suite or on your veranda.

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.