Circumnavigation of Japan: Cultures & Traditions

Summary

Arrive in Yokosuka, a vibrant port city south of Tokyo, known for its maritime heritage and stunning coastal views. Home to the famous Yokosuka Naval Base, the city blends traditional Japanese culture with global influences.

Your journey of wonder begins as soon as you step on board Scenic Eclipse II. You’ll be warmly greeted by the crew and shown to your luxurious verandah suite. Take some time to settle in, meet your butler and pick the perfect pillow from the plush pillow menu.

Explore your luxurious Discovery Yacht and toast to the beginning of this once-in-a-lifetime journey looking out to the twinkling lights of Yokosuka as we depart port.

Please book your flight to arrive into Tokyo prior to 12:00 PM.

Summary

Enjoy the stunning views as you sail into the seaside town of Oarai on the beautiful Ibaraki coastline. Be sure to take a photo of the Oarai Isosaki-Jinja Shrine and its much-photographed Kamiiso-no Torii gate that dramatically frames the Pacific Ocean beyond. Seafood lovers will relish a wander through the Nakaminato Fish Market and enjoy the day’s catch expertly prepared at a nearby restaurant.

Unwind from your day of discovery with a sundowner from the unrivalled selection of premium beverages at the Sky Bar, simply watching the world pass by.

Freechoice:
Fukuroda Falls Nature Excursion: Visit Fukuroda Falls, one of the most famous waterfalls in Japan, and photograph the spectacular valley views at the Ryujin Suspension Bridge.

Highlights of Ibaraki: Explore Kairakuen Garden, one of the “Three Celebrated Gardens of Japan” and renowned for its plums and other seasonal flowers. Next, visit Nakaminato fish market and the Oarai-isomae Shrine with its beautiful ocean torii gate.

Mito City and Tokugawa Museum: Explore Kairakuen Garden, renowned for its seasonal flowers. Next, visit the Kodokan, a clan school established to educate the samurai class. Finally, step into shogunate history at the Tokugawa Museum.

Summary

Awake to an early arrival into the city of Sendai and enjoy breakfast served by your butler on your luxurious suite’s verandah as you prepare for a morning of cultural encounters.

The tree-lined regional city of Sendai is one of the country’s 15 largest and was founded in the 1600s by Date Masamune, a powerful feudal lord. Immerse yourself in rich samurai history at the well-preserved historical sites. Afterwards, return to the ultra-luxury of your Discovery Yacht after lunch for a leisurely onward sail.

Freechoice:
Hiraizumi World Heritage Sites: Explore World Heritage-listed Hiraizumi and its spiritual highlights: Chusonji Temple and Motsuji Temple.

History of Sendai: Delve into the history of Sendai with visits to Zuihoden Mausoleum, Sendai Castle and Osaki Hachimangu Shrine.

Matsushima Cruising: Cruise Matsushima Bay, renowned as one of the most scenic spots in Japan. Then visit Zuiganji temple, completed in 1609.

Reconstruction of Ishinomaki: Take a guided tour of Ishinomaki and visit the Higashi Matsushima City 3.11 Disaster Recovery Memorial Museum to learn about the reconstruction efforts following the 2011 Tohoku earthquake.

Summary

Immerse in the unrivalled luxury of your Discovery Yacht today as you sail onwards. Begin the morning with some self-care and enjoy a meditation session at PURE: Yoga & Pilates Studio. Alternatively, work up a sweat in the POWER: Gym. Add to your wellbeing ritual in the Vitality pool and share a nourishing lunch at Yacht Club before arriving in Hakodate in the early afternoon.

Located on the southern tip of the island of Hokkaido, the harbour city is loved for its distinct seasons, star-shaped Goryokaku Fort, and trendy Hakodate Bay Area with its historic, red-brick warehouses.

Freechoice:
Goryokaku and Bay Area: Visit Goryokaku, a star shaped, Western style citadel built in the last years of the Edo Period.

Highlights of Hakodate: Visit the historic Fort Goryokaku Park, scale Mt. Hakodate for sweeping views of the city and walk through the Motomachi District.

Strolling Around Motomachi District: Stroll the streets of the Motomachi District. See historic churches such as the Gothic-style Motomachi Roman Catholic Church.

Onuma Quasi National Park: Enjoy the island hopping and the natural beauty of Onuma Park. The lakes are dotted with 126 islets connected by 18 bridges and are surrounded by dense forest.

Summary

Appreciate the superior surroundings of your ultra-luxury suite this morning with a leisurely lie in before arriving in Akita. Forested mountains meet the Sea of Japan at this idyllic coastline of the Tohoku region on the island of Honshu. Bestowed with incredible natural beauty, hot springs, and a tenderly preserved samurai district, Akita distils the essence of Japan’s culture and landscapes in one arresting destination.

Tonight, perhaps enjoy a refined and elegant dinner at French fine dining and Champagne bar, Lumière recounting stories of adventure with new found friends.

Freechoice:
Historical Akita: Visit central Akita for a glimpse into the history and tradition of the area.

Scenery of Lake Tazawa and Sake Brewery: Travel to Lake Tazawa, the deepest lake in Japan. After lunch, head to Suzuki sake brewery.

Namahage Tradition of Oga Peninsula: Discover Namahage Museum’s collection of traditional masks and costumes. Learn more at the nearby Oga Shinzan Folklore Museum. Visit Mt Kanpuzan Observatory for views of Oga Peninsula's coast.

Kakunodate Samurai Residence District with Japanese Lunch: Explore the samurai era in Kakunodate, a town steeped in tradition. Visit Ishiguro Residence, Aoyagi Samurai Manor Museum and after lunch, stroll the quaint samurai quarter.

Summary

Greet the seaside city of Niigata with a coffee on the Observation Terrace this morning. This agricultural city is encircled by terraced rice fields and produces some of the country’s best rice and sake, thanks to the area’s high snowfall that flushes the fields with pristine water come spring.

Continue enjoying the city’s signature drink on board Scenic Eclipse II. Our all-inclusive philosophy means you can enjoy the included finest selection of premium beverages+ all day, every day.

Freechoice:
Rice and Sake Making Tradition of Niigata: Visit a historic rice farm and then a local sake brewery and learn why Niigata is home to some of Japan’s best sake.

Discover Historic Shibata: Step into history at Shibata Castle. Wander Shimizuen Garden, the Ashigaru-nagaya foot soldier's residence, and Aumont Sake Brewery.

Niigata City History Museum and Geisha Experience: Tour Niigata’s “Minatopia” Museum, Hakusan Shrine, and Dutch-style gardens. Enjoy a Furumachi Geiko performance, a tradition spanning over 200 years, paired with Japanese tea.

Industries of Niigata with Japanese Lunch: Discover Niigata’s industrial past, visit the TOJIRO knife factory, and enjoy a traditional meal at a local restaurant.

Summary

Welcome to Sado Island. Experience the magic of this hidden treasure, where time slows down, tradition embraces tranquillity, and every moment offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the essence of Japan. Enjoy one of the Freechoice options, each promising a unique and memorable experience.

In the evening back on board, dine at one of the impeccable restaurants, then join fellow guests for an after-dinner drink in the Scenic Lounge & Bar. Alternatively, bid farewell to Sado Island while sipping your favourite whiskey in the private sanctuary of your luxurious verandah.

Freechoice:
Sado Gold Mine: Explore the historic Sado Gold Mine, vital to the Tokugawa Shogunate's finances. Learn how Edo-era miners worked and see “koban” gold coins.

Ogi Exploration on E-Bike: Ride along Sado’s scenic coastline on an E-bike, visiting Yajima-iriguchi, Ogi Folk Museum, and Shukunegi Village.

Shukunegi Village and Tarai Bune Boat: Visit historic Shukunegi Village, a former shipbuilders’ hub, and the Ogi Folk Museum to explore maritime history.

Shukunegi Village and Taiko Drum Workshop: Learn Taiko drumming at Kodo’s Tatakokan workshop and watch a masterful performance. Visit Shukunegi Village and the Ogi Folk Museum to experience Sado’s rich cultural and maritime heritage.

Summary

Arrive early in the artful city of Kanazawa today. Enjoy a relaxed breakfast in your ultra-luxury suite or meet your fellow guests at the Yacht Club.

An epicentre of elegant traditional crafts, Kanazawa will delight appreciators of fine art. Here you’ll find traditional and modern artisans working with ceramics, embroidery and kaga yuzen silk dyeing in the many workshops, stores and museums.

Return to an intimate dinner served in your beautifully appointed ultra-luxury suite by your butler or join your new friends to share memories of your journey so far at one of the up to 10 all-inclusive dining experiences.

Freechoice:
Highlights of Kanazawa: Visit Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s top three gardens, and the Higashichaya district, known for its preserved geisha culture and historic charm.

Tastes of Kanazawa: Explore Yamato Koji Park to learn about soy sauce and miso fermentation. Relax with matcha tea and sweets at Gyokusen - a teahouse in Kanazawa Castle Park.

Cooking Local Cuisine: Shop at Omicho Market, Kanazawa’s “Kitchen,” and cook Jibuni, a local dish simmered in dashi and soy sauce.

Geisha District and Gold Leaf Art: Tour Higashichaya District, home to geisha tea houses, then craft gold leaf chopsticks at a workshop, showcasing Kanazawa’s 400-year tradition.

Shirakawago World Heritage Site and Washi Making: Explore one of the most scenic World Heritage sites in Japan, Shirakawago village, where approximately 90 thatched farmhouses are surrounded by pine tree covered mountains, before taking part in the art of Japanese paper making at Gokayama.

Summary

Watch Sakaiminato’s sentinel-like Mount Daisen reveal itself through the lens of the Observation Lounge’s Swarovksi telescope as you arrive this morning.

Located in Tottori Prefecture, Sakaiminato and sister town Yonago are bestowed with enchanting scenery, lively centres and enjoyable activities. Throughout Sakaiminato, characters from one of Japan’s most loved manga comics, GeGeGe no Kitaro, appear everywhere. The hometown of author Mizuki Shigeru, Sakaiminato proudly emblazons every free space with the character’s likeness. You can learn more about the child-like obsession at the Mizuki Shigeru Museum.

Farewell the twinkling lights of Sakaiminato as you relish a perfectly cooked steak at Elements.

Freechoice:
Adachi Museum of Art and Gardens and Yushien Japanese Garden: Visit Adachi Museum, featuring modern Japanese art and Japan’s top-rated garden, offering year-round seasonal views. Explore Yushien Garden on Daikonshima Island.

Matsue Castle and Samurai District Walk: Tour Matsue Castle, built in 1611, and its feudal artifacts. Cruise along the castle moat, then visit a preserved samurai residence.

Matsue Castle and Mingei Craft Movement: Explore Matsue Castle and Abe Eishiro Memorial Hall to learn about the Mingei Craft Movement and try making washi paper.

Mt. Daisen Nature Walk with Lunch: Enjoy a relaxing walk on Mt. Daisen with a guide and visit the sacred Daisen Shrine. Conclude with lunch at a local restaurant.

Summary

Let the day unfurl in relaxation as you awake in your 6-Star ultra-luxury suite and choose one of the many incredible experiences on board your Discovery Yacht. As you sail toward the South Korean port of Busan, spend the morning rejuvenating in the expansive Senses Spa#, partake in an Aerial Yoga class, unwind on the Senses Vitality Pool Deck or simply catch up on world events with a newspaper.

Arriving in Busan in time for lunch, disembark to revel in the seaside city’s urban beaches, laidback atmosphere and tempting street food culture.

Freechoice:
Gamcheon Culture Village and Markets: Explore the vibrant Gamcheon Culture Village, renowned for its colourful houses, murals, and sculptures. Continue to Jagalchi Market, Korea’s largest seafood market.

Past & Present of Busan: Visit Haedong Yonggung Temple, perched on a seaside cliff. Then drive to Korea’s second-highest building.

Introduction to Busan: Visit the UN Memorial Cemetery. Continue to Busan Museum, then Jagalchi Fish Market and Gukje Market.

Beomeosa Temple and Tea with Monk: Travel to Beomeosa Temple for a special tea ceremony with a monk and experience a truly serene cultural journey.

Handcraft Experience & Yongdusan Park: Create your own hanji paper doll at a traditional Korean paper workshop and then visit mountain top Yongdusan Park.

Summary

Nestled between rolling hills and the vast Kanmon Straits, Shimonoseki captivates with its picturesque charm. This historic port town, with its unique heritage shaped by 700 years of samurai rule, effortlessly blends modernity with an enchanting essence of the past. Wander through the iconic traditional market, famous for its fugu stands, and immerse yourself in local culture.

Freechoice:
Akiyoshidai Plateau and Stalactite Cave: Explore the Akiyoshidai Plateau’s stunning karst landscapes and descend into Akiyoshido, a vast limestone cave with intricate stalactite formations.

Chofu Samurai Town Walking: Stroll through Chofu Samurai Town, pivotal to the Meiji Restoration, with preserved samurai homes, Kozan-ji Temple, and the Shimonoseki City Museum of History.

Views of Kanmon Strait and Mojiko Retro: Admire the Kanmon Bridge at Mekari No.2 Observatory, learn about the Battle of Dannoura, and visit Mojiko Retro’s early 20th-century architecture. Enjoy views from the Mojiko Retro Observatory and free time to explore.

Summary

Your day begins at the small island of Miyajima, which translates to ‘Shrine Island’ in Japanese. Miyajima is famous for its Itsukushima shrine and enormous torii gate which, at high tide, appears to float above the water.

Enjoy lunch on board as you sail towards Hiroshima. Another city ravaged by the atomic bomb during WWII, Hiroshima has risen to become a living symbol of peace and rebirth. Visit the Peace Memorial Park and World Heritage-listed Atomic Bomb Dome, where you can reflect on the sombre history and admire the city’s determination to endure and overcome.

Freechoice:
Hiroshima and Miyajima Full day with Japanese Lunch: Take a ferry to Miyajima Island, home to the Itsukushima Shrine. Visit Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Park, Museum, and the Atomic Bomb Dome.

Local Sweets Cooking Class by Foot: Learn to make momiji manju, a traditional maple leaf-shaped confection, then explore Itsukushima Shrine.

Simose Art Museum: Visit the 2023-opened Simose Art Museum, showcasing Shigeru Ban’s visual arts and Seto Inland Sea views.

Miyajima Walking Tour: Explore Itsukushima Shrine and its floating Torii Gate on this walking tour.

Panoramic Hiroshima: Tour Peace Memorial Park, Museum, and the World Heritage-listed Atomic Bomb Dome before relaxing at Hiroshima’s serene Shukkeien Garden.

Peace Memorial Park and Museum: Reflect on Hiroshima's WWII history at Peace Memorial Park and Museum.

Summary

History buffs will want to write home Hiroshima. Despite being devastated in 1945, this Japanese city is known to all for its commitment peace – its ruin on the 6th August 1945 led to the end of the war and today, the Peace Memorial (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) , is a constant reminder of the destruction that war brings. A walk in the leafy boulevards of Peace Memorial Park brings quiet contemplation. The Flames of Peace – set in the park’s central feature pond – burn brightly and will continue to do so until all the nuclear bombs I the world have been destroyed. There are many other inspiring messages of hope around the city too; the Children’s’ Peace Monument just north of the park is a homage to little Sadako Sasaki, who was just two in 1945. When she developed leukemia in 1956, she believed that if she folded 1,000 paper cranes – a symbol of longevity and happiness in Japan – she would recover. Sadly she died before she finished her task but her classmates finished the rest. It is impossible to ignore the events of 1945 in Hiroshima, but this is far from a depressing place. The great efforts that have been made in rebuilding of the city over the years have given Hiroshima a vibrant, eclectic edge, with the downtown shopping area and street food stalls being well worth a visit. The proximity to Miyajima and its iconic, impressive, Torii gate should not be overlooked either. If you are lucky enough to visit during the unpredictable and short-lived Sakura (cherry blossom) season, then the extraordinary sight of the delicate pink blossom floating across the water to the red gate, means you can consider yourself one of the luckiest people on the planet.

Summary

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

A place to unearth traditional Japanese culture, the small city of Kochi is a path less travelled for many, making it ripe for your discovery. Walk the streets downtown to observe daily life, explore Kochi Castle, visit Chikurinji Temple at Godaisan Mountain, or perhaps stroll the promenade at Katsurahama Beach.

Freechoice:
Chikurinji Temple and Makino Botanical Garden: Visit the serene 8th-century Chikurinji Temple, a renowned pilgrimage site, and explore the beautiful Makino Botanical Garden on Mt. Godai.

Ryugado Cave and Ekingura Museum: Discover the stunning Ryugado limestone cave, followed by a visit to the Ekingura Museum to admire avant-garde artwork.

Niyodo River, Washi Paper Making Workshop: Enjoy scenic views of the Niyodo River before learning traditional paper-making techniques in a hands-on Washi workshop.

History of Kochi - Katsurahama and Kochi Castle: Explore Kochi Castle, one of Japan’s original castles, and enjoy the breathtaking coastal views at Katsurahama.

Summary

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. Despite this, 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#.

Freechoice:
Cultural Gems of Ancient Kyoto:  Discover Kyoto's rich heritage with a visit to the Golden Pavilion, a 14th-century marvel adorned in gold leaf, and Nijo Castle, a World Heritage site showcasing Momoyama architecture.

Craftsmanship of Kobe: Explore the artistry of Japanese woodworking at the Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum, then visit the Sawanotsuru Sake Museum.

Himeji Castle & Kokoen Garden: Visit Himeji Castle, a World Heritage site famed for its white elegance and historical preservation. Enjoy the tranquil Kokoen Garden, featuring nine themed gardens.

Summary

At midday, you’ll arrive at 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, 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’.

Discover more about this tradition on Mikimoto Pearl Island, where you can learn all about the cultivation of pearls in the museum, watch ama demonstrations, and shop for exquisite mementos.

Freechoice:
Ise Shrine Pilgrimage: Visit Japan's most sacred Shinto shrine, Ise Shrine. Cross the Ujibashi Bridge into the tranquil sacred precincts.

Ise Shima Skyline Scenic Route and Futami Okitama Shrine: Enjoy stunning views of Ise Bay along the Ise Shima Skyline. Visit Futami Okitama Shrine, known for the iconic “Couple Rocks”.

Ago Bay View and Mikimoto Pearl Island:  Admire the beauty of Ago Bay from Yokoyama Observatory. Explore Mikimoto Pearl Island, birthplace of cultured pearls.

Ama Culture of Toba with Lunch: Visit the Toba Sea-Folk Museum, showcasing fishing tools, boats, and local traditions. Then meet a traditional lady diver for lunch and enjoy fresh, locally prepared seafood.

Summary

Set against the majesty of Mount Fuji, Shimizu is considered one of Japan’s most beautiful ports. With a history dating back to the Nara Period of the 8th century and endowed with stunning natural scenery, Shimizu is brimming with inspiring sights. 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 vistas of the mighty Mount Fuji.

Return to your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht to dine with new friends and toast to new memories as you celebrate your last night on your Discovery Yacht.

Freechoice:
Kunozan Toshogu Shrine & Mt.Fuji: Visit Nihondaira Park and enjoy panoramic views of Mt. Fuji. Board an aerial ropeway up the mountainside to the Kunozan Toshogu Shrine, the burial place of the first Tokugawa shogun.

Mt. Fuji, Shrine and Nature: Soak up the beauty of Shiraito Falls, ranked among the most beautiful in Japan. Visit Mt Fuji World Heritage Centre and Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine.

Ukiyoe Art Museum & Miho-no-Matsubara: View more than 1,300 Ukiyo-e exhibits at the Tokaido Hiroshige Art Museum then relax with a cup of tea at Miyuki-tei, a traditional teahouse.

Summary

Today you'll arrive in the fascinating, futuristic and bustling city of Tokyo. This is the final day of your Cruise Voyage so enjoy a Champagne breakfast served in your suite.

Disembark after breakfast as you farewell the crew and take away memories of a truly unforgettable journey discovering Japan’s coastline.

Please book your flight to depart out of Tokyo after 12:00 PM.

#Spa treatments at additional cost. +All drinks on board, including those stocked in your mini bar, are included, except for a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, Champagnes and spirits. Specialty restaurants require a reservation, enquire on board.

^Helicopter and submersible is not in operation in Japan.

The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the voyage will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.