Japan & South Korea In Depth

Summary

Arrive in the diverse and charismatic city of Tokyo today. Japan’s capital is a thrilling metropolis dotted with endlessly fascinating neighbourhoods.

Your Cruise Voyage 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 before dinner, from the inviting Sky Bar and outdoor Vitality pool on Deck 10 to the indulgent Senses Spa# on Deck 6 and the Observation Lounge and Terrace on Deck 5. Toast to the begin of this once-in-a-lifetime journey looking out to the twinkling lights of Tokyo as we depart port.

Please book your flight to arrive into Tokyo prior to 02:00 PM.

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.

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

This morning, you’ll arrive at the 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

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

This morning, you will arrive at the port of Uno, the gateway to the garden city of Okayama, the second-largest city in the Chugoku region. Okayama is home to the stunning Korakuen Garden, which was commissioned by a feudal lord in 1687 as a place to receive guests. Choose to spend your day strolling immaculately manicured gardens, admiring historic architecture or contemplating thought-provoking art.

Return to your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht this evening and unwind with a cocktail in one of the all-inclusive eight bars and lounges.

Freechoice:
Kurashiki Historic District: Explore Kurashiki, a former port town with white-walled storehouses and charming canals. Visit the 200-year-old Ohashi House and the Kurashiki Folkcraft Museum, featuring over 800 traditional crafts.

Pottery and Sword Making Traditions of Bizen: Discover Bizen City, famed for its ancient crafts. Visit a Bizen ware pottery kiln, meet artisans, and tour the Bizen Osafune Sword Museum, showcasing traditional Japanese swords and live demonstrations by skilled artisans.

Naoshima Island of Art: Experience Naoshima’s modern art scene. Visit the Benesse House and Museum, the Art House Project, and the Naoshima New Museum, all blending art, architecture, and nature.

Summary

Overnight your Discovery Yacht will have arrived at Takamatsu, the capital of Kagawa. Gazing upon the Seto Inland Sea, the port of Takamatsu is the gateway to the sea’s many stunning islands. From here you can travel along the longest road bridge in the world, the Seto Ohashi Bridge.

Explore the ruins of the waterfront Takamatsu Castle, wander the tranquil Ritsurin Koen garden, built by feudal lords in the Edo Period, and enjoy the local specialty of ‘sanuki udon’ noodles, famed for its delightful texture.

With an overnight stay in Takamatsu, you have ample opportunity to explore.

Freechoice:
Iconic Scenery of Takamatsu: Visit Ritsurin Garden, known for its stunning pine trees. Then explore Yashima Temple and enjoy panoramic views of Takamatsu city and the Seto Inland Sea.

Traditional Buildings of Shikoku and Bonsai Farm: Tour Shikoku Mura, an open-air museum of traditional buildings, and visit a Bonsai farm in Kinashi.

Marugame Castle and Seto Bridge View: Explore Marugame Castle, one of Japan’s twelve remaining original castles, and then drive to Seto Bridge for a photo stop.

Ritsurin Garden and Bonsai Nursery with Udon Lunch: Tour Ritsurin Garden, a 185-acre cultural site, followed by Yashima Temple for breathtaking views. Enjoy a local udon lunch before visiting a Bonsai farm.

Summary

Wake this morning to vibrant Takamatsu beckoning you from the sophisticated spaces of Scenic Eclipse II.

Close by is the picturesque island of Ogijima, which captivates with its serenity. You may have the opportunity to walk to the lighthouse and explore the labyrinthine laneways of the traditional village. Ogijima’s sister island, Megijima is also accessed by a ferry from Takamatsu. The forested mountains of the island are enshrined in folklore and nicknamed ‘Ogre Island’ on account of a local legend. Stroll the atmospheric village, take in the sea air, and glimpse the Seto Inland Sea from the mountaintop.

Freechoice:
Iconic Scenery of Takamatsu: Visit Ritsurin Garden, known for its stunning pine trees. Then explore Yashima Temple and enjoy panoramic views of Takamatsu city and the Seto Inland Sea.

Traditional Buildings of Shikoku and Bonsai Farm: Tour Shikoku Mura, an open-air museum of traditional buildings, and visit a Bonsai farm in Kinashi.

Marugame Castle and Seto Bridge View: Explore Marugame Castle, one of Japan’s twelve remaining original castles, and then drive to Seto Bridge for a photo stop.

Ritsurin Garden and Bonsai Nursery with Udon Lunch: Tour Ritsurin Garden, a 185-acre cultural site, followed by Yashima Temple for breathtaking views. Enjoy a local udon lunch before visiting a Bonsai farm.

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 journey 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.

Itsukushima Shrine and Zen Meditation at Daishoin: Explore Miyajima Island’s Itsukushima Shrine before tranquil Zen meditation at Daishoin Temple.

Local Sweets Cooking Class: 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 foot.

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

Admire the South Korean port of Sokcho from your verandah and start planning the day ahead. Sokcho’s pretty beach and location as the gateway to Seoraksan National Park make it a lively tourist hub.

As you stroll around the city, perhaps sample incredibly fresh seafood at the Sokcho Central Market. Then make your way to the Lighthouse Observatory or head to the Seoraksan National Park.

As the lights of Sokcho fade into the distance, find the perfect spot on the Observation Terrace to farewell your first South Korean port with a glass of Champagne or your favourite cocktail in hand.

Freechoice:
Mt. Seorak, Temple & Market: Explore the World Heritage-listed Biosphere Mt. Seorak. Then dive into Sokcho Market to savor local flavors.

Sokcho City Highlights: Visit Sokcho Museum and the Displaced Civilians Folk Village. See a Poongmool performance and learn about Abai Village, home to North Korean refugees, and its famous Gaetbae boat ride. Take the unique Abai Ferry ride across Sokcho Harbor.

Unsettled Peace of Korea: Experience the Goseong Unification Observatory for views of North Korea’s Geumgangsan Mountain. Visit the DMZ Museum to witness Korea’s path toward peace and reunification.

Summary

Today reveals the artful and natural beauty of P’ohang on the eastern side of the Yongil Gulf. Hwanho Park has an incredible rollercoaster-like Space Walk, a walkable sculpture with photogenic views.

Deep dive into P’ohang’s history as a steel-making city at the Museum of Steel Art. Be sure to snap a photo of the remarkable The Hand of Mutual Shake bronze sculpture at Homigot Sunrise Plaza.

Return to exchange stories of the day with your fellow Scenic Eclipse II guests over a drink in the Scenic Lounge Bar, before relishing a perfectly refined French meal at Lumière.

Freechoice:
Museum without walls, Gyeongju: Gyeongju, once the Shilla Kingdom's capital, is known for its rich cultural heritage. Visit Bulguksa Temple, rebuilt in 751, and explore Gyeongju National Museum. Discover Daereungwon Tomb Complex and Cheonmachong Tomb, which yielded over 11,000 historical items.

Pohang Space Walk & Market: Experience the Space Walk in Hwanho Park with stunning views. Visit Yeongildae Beach and Yeongiljeong Pavilion, offering ocean vistas. Conclude with Jukdo Market, one of the largest traditional markets in Gyeongsangbuk-do, known for its seafood.

UNESCO World Heritage of Korea: Explore Yangdong Village and Oksan Seowon, World Heritage sites showcasing Korea’s traditional culture and history.

Summary

As you sail toward the South Korean port of Busan, unwind on the Senses Pool Deck or simply catch up on world events with a newspaper.

Arriving in Busan this morning, disembark to revel in the seaside city’s urban beaches, laidback atmosphere and street food culture. As South Korea’s second-largest city, Busan has a vibrant, international energy that blends contemporary and traditional life.

This evening, as Busan fades into the distance, you may choose to spend the evening in the privacy of your spacious ultra-luxury suite or enjoying your Discovery Yacht’s entertainment program in the state-of-the-art theatre.

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.

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

Summary

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 and Peace Park.

Freechoice:
Panoramic Nagasaki: Take in a breathtaking panoramic view of the city from the Mt. Inasa Observatory. Visit Nagasaki Peace Park, dedicated to world peace.

Atomic Bomb Museum & Peace Park: Experience the Atomic Bomb Museum and Nagasaki Peace Park on a guided walking tour and by tram.

City Tram Ride & Walking Tour of Atomic Bomb Museum and Peace Park: Explore Nagasaki's iconic landmarks and powerful reminders of nuclear history on a walking tour, complemented by a scenic tram ride through the city.

Historical Nagasaki: Immerse yourself in Nagasaki’s rich history at the Museum of History and Culture, step into the past at Dejima, and find inspiration at the serene Nagasaki Peace Park.

Summary

Enjoy another day in beautiful and bustling Nagasaki, a city where vibrant history meets modern energy, offering picturesque landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and a lively urban atmosphere. 

Beyond World War II, explore a deeper past at the Nagasaki Museum of History and Culture and the Suwa-jinja shrine.?

Alternatively, you can join the tour (cruise and walk) to Hashima, an intriguing island with a storied past, where you can explore abandoned buildings and learn about its unique history. 

Summary

Relish a morning coffee on your private verandah as you admire the dramatic landscape of Kagoshima. At the southern tip of Kyushu, the Mount Sakurajima volcano rises sharply 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.

Freechoice:
Highlights of Kagoshima: Travel by ferry to Sakurajima island to view spectacular lava fields. Visit Sengan-en, a serene landscape garden.

Chiran Samurai Residence & Peace Museum: Visit the well-preserved residences and gardens of the Samurai and the Chiran Peace Memorial Museum.

Ibusuki Sand Bath Experience: Discover one of Japan's most celebrated hot springs for a sand bath experience.

Makurazaki Dashi Workshop: Tour the Bonito Flakes Factory. Enjoy a workshop before a tasting.

Kagoshima City History: Visit Sengan-en and delve into the history of Kagoshima at the Reimeikan museum.

Satsuma Ware and Gold Mine Shochu: This tour showcases two of Kagoshima's specialties, shochu and satsuma-yaki.

Summary

Take advantage of Scenic Eclipse II'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 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 Gardens: 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

Celebrate the final day of your Cruise Voyage with a Champagne breakfast on your elegant verandah. Today’s journey uncovers the thrilling city of Osaka, Japan’s third-largest metropolis after Tokyo and Yokohama.

Wander the busy streets to pull the thread of what makes this exciting hub so absorbing. Spend the afternoon visiting the beautiful Sumiyoshi Taisha Shinto shrine and historic Shitennoji, which is one of Japan’s oldest temples.

As evening envelops the city, encounter Osaka’s bustling nightlife. Or return to the elevated indulgence of your Discovery Yacht to share a meal with your new friends on your last night on board.

Freechoice:
Ancient Capital of Nara, World Heritage Site: Visit Kasuga Taisha Shrine, founded in 768 A.D., and explore Todaiji Temple, home to the world’s largest Buddha. Stroll through Nara Park, where over 1,000 sacred deer roam freely.

Highlights of Osaka:See Osaka Castle and Sumiyoshi Shrine, two of the city’s main landmarks.
Note: Osaka Castle involves steep stairs and limited elevator access.

Kyoto Arashiyama by Rickshaw with Japanese Lunch: Enjoy a rickshaw ride through Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and visit Tenryuji Temple, a World Heritage site, before lunch.

Views of Osaka: Tour Shitennoji Temple, then head to Umeda Sky Building for panoramic city views.

Summary

You’ll disembark Scenic Eclipse after breakfast. Farewell the crew and fellow guests, taking with you memories of a truly unforgettable ultra-luxury experience on board The World's First Discovery

Please book your flight to depart out of Osaka 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.