Itinerary

Day 1 Osaka, Japan

Upon arrival, enjoy a private transfer to your hotel in Osaka, where you'll settle in for a comfortable two-night stay.

Day 2 Osaka, Japan

Osaka at lesiure

Day 3 Osaka, Japan - Embark cruise

After check-out, a private transfer will take you to Osaka Port to embark your Seabourn cruise and begin your journey.

Osaka, Japan's vibrant second city, is a dynamic blend of modern energy and historical charm. Known for its delicious street food, lively nightlife, and warm hospitality, Osaka is also home to iconic sights like Osaka Castle, the bustling Dotonbori district, and the serene Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine. Whether you're shopping in Shinsaibashi, exploring ancient temples, or tasting takoyaki by the canal, Osaka offers an authentic and unforgettable slice of Japanese culture.

Day 4 Kochi, Japan

Japan's Shikoku island is a popular place of pilgrimage among Japanese Buddhists. Kochi has three of the 88 temples on the route. Chikurinji Temple, with its five-story pagoda, is one of them. Located on Mount Godaisan, it also features an adjacent botanical garden. The town is most famous for its castle, originally built in the early 17th century, but largely rebuilt following a fire in the mid-18th century. It is one of only 12 existing feudal-period castles in Japan. South of the town, Katsurahama beach is a popular destination, although swimming is not allowed due to strong currents. A picturesque shrine located on a high point overlooking the sea is the perfect postcard image of rural Japan. The beach is also a good spot to enjoy Katsuo no Tataki, the traditional local dish of lightly grilled and seasoned bonito tuna.

Day 5 Scenic Cruising Kanmon Strait

Day 6 Sokcho, South Korea

Sokcho, South Korea, is a picturesque coastal city where nature and tradition meet. Nestled between the East Sea and Seoraksan National Park, Sokcho offers stunning mountain landscapes, pristine beaches, and vibrant seafood markets. Wander through the charming Abai Village, soak in a seaside hot spring, or hike the scenic trails of Seoraksan. With its blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and relaxed atmosphere, Sokcho is a refreshing escape and a gateway to Korea's wild northeast.

Day 7 At Sea

Day 8 Kanazawa, Japan

One of Japan's best-preserved cities, Kanazawa escaped war damage and natural disasters to reward visitors with a wealth of architecture as an important clan castle town from the mid-17th century until the middle of the 19th. The mighty Kanazawa Castle did not survive intact, but its famous Ishikawa Gate, the Sunjikken Longhouse and lavish Kenrokuen Garden hint at the grandeur. Of special note are the surviving Higashi Geisha District and Samurai District streets. The Temple area holds the Myoryuji Temple with its hidden passages and secret doors giving it the nickname the Ninja Temple. The Oyamajinja Shrine is a later addition, its three-story gate with impressive stained glass windows reveal a Dutch influence. Museums worth exploring include the Kanazawa Yasue Gold Leaf Museum, with examples of the arts and crafts using the pure gold decoration for which the region is famous. Another museum celebrates the Buddhist philosopher D. T. Suzuki, credited with introducing Zen philosophy to the West, and a striking 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art. Nearby Mt. Utatsu is renowned for its Three Shrines. VIEW CRUISES

Day 9 Niigata, Japan

Niigata, Japan, is a coastal city known for its pristine landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and some of the country's finest sake. Set between the Sea of Japan and the Japanese Alps, Niigata offers beautiful waterfront views, peaceful rice fields, and scenic mountain backdrops. Explore traditional markets, visit historic temples, and savour fresh seafood and world-renowned rice. As a gateway to Sado Island and a centre of sake brewing, Niigata invites you to experience the quieter, more authentic side of Japan.

Day 10 Akita, Japan

Akita, Japan, is a serene gateway to Japan's rugged northern wilderness, celebrated for its rich cultural traditions and natural beauty. Set amidst forested hills and framed by the Sea of Japan, Akita is famed for its exquisite kiritanpo (rice-paste skewers), historic samurai districts, and seasonal highlights like the fiery Namahage festival. Stroll through charming temples, soak in soothing hot springs, and wander the peaceful streets lined with Edo-period architecture. With its blend of authentic cuisine, timeless heritage, and scenic tranquility, Akita offers a quietly captivating glimpse into Japan's northeastern heartland.

Day 11 Aomori, Japan

Located on the northernmost harbor of Japan's main island of Honshu, Aomori is the traditional departure point for Hokkaido Island. It is famous for its summer Nebuta Matsuri festival, and has a museum that recaptures the colour and pageantry for those who visit in other seasons. Explore the earliest prehistoric cultures of Japan at the Sannai Maruyama archaeological site, or visit the Aomori Museum of Art for a look at more contemporary works. Nearby Hirosaki boasts a 17th Century castle. Visit either the Auga or the Furukawa public fish market, where you can create your own version of a donburi rice bowl with pristinely fresh local seafood.

Day 12 Hakodate, Japan

This important port on Japan's northern Hokkaido Island was the first to be opened to European and American trade. The result of this is a trove of Western-style buildings in the suburb of Motomachi that gives the impression of a movie set. The bell of the distinctive Haristo Greek Orthodox church is designated one of Japan's official treasured –100 soundscapes.– Hokkaido is famous for its hot springs, much beloved by the Japanese. Yunokawa Hot Spring enjoys a commanding view of the sea, and its botanical garden is home to the Japanese macaques called 'snow monkeys' because of their habit of soaking in the hot springs during the northern winter. Goryokaku is a 150-year old star fortress that holds the Magistrate's Office, an excellent example of traditional Japanese architecture. Get a panoramic view from the observation platform atop the Goryokaku Tower.

Day 13 Miyako, Japan

Miyako, part of Japan's Okinawa Islands, is a tropical paradise known for its white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs. Often called "Miyako Blue," the island's seas are perfect for snorkeling, diving, and soaking in serene coastal beauty. Beyond the beach, enjoy local specialties like Miyako soba and mangoes, or explore traditional island crafts. With its laid-back vibe and stunning natural scenery, Miyako offers a blissful escape into subtropical Japan.

Day 14 At Sea

Day 14 At Sea

Day 15 Yokohama (Tokyo), Japan

Yokohama, Japan's vibrant port city just south of Tokyo, blends modern sophistication with rich maritime history. Known for its scenic waterfront, bustling Chinatown - the largest in Japan - and striking architecture like the Landmark Tower, Yokohama offers a dynamic mix of culture, shopping, and cuisine. Stroll through the futuristic Minato Mirai district, explore historic red brick warehouses, or relax in traditional gardens. With its cosmopolitan charm and oceanfront appeal, Yokohama is a lively gateway to both urban Japan and coastal tranquillity.  

After disembarking, enjoy a private transfer to Tokyo airport for your departure flight home.

Terms and Conditions

Terms and Conditions apply: All prices are quoted in Australian dollars, based on per person double occupancy unless stated otherwise, and inclusive of all taxes and discounts. All prices & itineraries are current as of 17 July 2025 & subject to change without notice. Prices are subject to change due to availability, currency fluctuations, fuel price, and tax increases. Price includes any stated bonus nights, upgrades & package savings, if applicable. All passports, visas, travel permits, and vaccinations are the responsibility of the travelling passenger to secure prior to travel. Airfares are capacity controlled and are subject to change at any time without notice, based in economy class from Sydney and are subject to the carriers' flight schedules and conditions. Seasonal and flight routing surcharges may apply. Airfares are based on the lowest available fare, which comes with strict conditions i.e., non-refundable, or non-changeable. Please ask your consultant for pricing on flexible fare options that allow cancellations and/or amendments at a fee. Please call us for prices from other airports. Travel packages advertised may include multiple products provided by several suppliers to provide a travel itinerary. Each component of the package will be treated independent of each other, and the specific terms & conditions of each product supplier will apply. Hotels may charge resort fees, or a security bond not included or mentioned in this package, payable direct upon check-in. We reserve the right to correct errors without penalty.