Grand Japan Cherry Blossoms Cruise

Day 1 - Tokyo

Arrive: Sat 06 March 2027 / Depart: Sat 06 March 2027 at 15:00

Yokohama and Edo began life as sleepy fishing villages. That changed in the early 17th century after Tokugawa Ieyasu became Shogun. Edo became the center of political power in Japan, a position the city retained even after the restoration of Imperial rule in 1866. Contemporary Tokyo may be the most astonishing city on earth. It's a paradoxical mix of ancient tradition and postmodern culture. The Ginza - an international shopping mecca - stands near the serene grounds of the Imperial Palace, and the hyper-speed of 21st century consumerism is mysteriously reconciled with the elegance and serenity of traditional culture. Tokyo provides the traveler with a dizzying experience. With the Meiji Restoration of 1868, Edo was renamed Tokyo, the "Eastern Capital," to distinguish it from the old imperial capital at Kyoto, the "Western Capital."

Day 2 - Toba, Japan

Arrive: Sun 07 March 2027 at 07:00 / Depart: Sun 07 March 2027 at 17:00

Toba, located at the northeastern end of the Shima-hanto Peninsula in Mie, flourished as the castle town of the Kuki family who ruled this region from the 16th century. It was also a landing spot for visitors on the sea route to Ise-jingu Shrine and belongs to Ise-Shima National Park.

Day 3 - Kochi, Japan

Arrive: Mon 08 March 2027 at 09:00 / Depart: Mon 08 March 2027 at 19:00

Kochi sits on the broad alluvial plain facing Urado Bay. This city in Shikoku takes its name from the great feudal castle that sits at its very heart. Completed in 1611, Kochi Castle was the seat of Yamauchi Kazutoyo, a noted warrior who supported Tokugawa Ieyasu in his successful quest to become Shogun. Tosa Province and Kochi Castle were Yamauchi's reward for faithful service. There is an historical irony here: 250 years later, a Kochi native son - a former low-ranked samurai and now ronin named Sakamoto Ryoma - played a pivotal role in bringing the Tokugawa Shogunate to an end and restoring the Emperor of Japan to political prominence. The prize once awarded for faithful service had become a hotbed of support for the Meiji Restoration. Kochi is one of the wettest places in Japan - and a frequent target for cyclonic storms or typhoons. Southeast of the city, warm oceans currents washing against the Aki Mountains create a subtropical landscape of hibiscus, palm and ficus at Muroto-Anan Quasi-National Park.

Day 4 - At Sea

Day 5 - Busan, South Korea

Arrive: Wed 10 March 2027 / Depart: Wed 10 March 2027 at 16:00

The second largest city in South Korea, Busan is your gateway to a fascinating land whose culture is a unique amalgam of old and new. Modern high-rise towers dwarf ancient Buddhist temples. The city's bustling business district offers a stark contrast to the serene grounds of Yongdusan Park. In short, Busan is a microcosm of South Korea, a nation whose startling economic success often obscures one of Asia's most sophisticated and venerable cultures. Busan was the scene of bitter fighting during the Korean War. The United Nations Memorial Cemetery marks the final resting place for the troops from 16 nations who gave their lives during the conflict.

Day 6 - Nagasaki

Arrive: Thu 11 March 2027 at 07:00 / Depart: Thu 11 March 2027 at 16:00

For most travelers, Nagasaki is a symbol of the horror and the inhumanity of war. An estimated 75,000 people perished in 1945 when the city became the second target of a nuclear attack. Today, Nagasaki's Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum draw visitors from around the world. But this beautiful city on Kyushu offers other sights. Often described as the San Francisco of Japan, the city occupies verdant hills surrounded by a deep-water bay. For three centuries, Nagasaki was Japan's sole window on the world. The city is also celebrated as the setting for Puccini's opera "Madame Butterfly."

Day 7 - Kagoshima

Arrive: Fri 12 March 2027 at 07:00 / Depart: Fri 12 March 2027 at 16:00

From the 12th century to the Meiji Restoration of 1868, Kagoshima was the chief stronghold of the mighty Shimazu clan. The city lies at the top of the Satsuma Peninsula, a mountainous, geothermal wonderland of hot springs and geysers. The area is also rich in modern Japanese history: Saigo Takamori and the Satsuma samurai were leaders of the Meiji Restoration that toppled the shogun and restored the Emperor to power in 1868. In 1877, dissatisfied with the direction of the new government, Saigo led the Satsuma Rebellion, which ended in his death and the final defeat of the samurai. The symbol of Kagoshima is Sakura Jima - the volcanic island that sits just offshore. The volcano has erupted over 30 times in recorded history.

Day 8 - Matsuyama

Arrive: Sat 13 March 2027 at 10:00 / Depart: Sat 13 March 2027 at 19:00

Matsuyama, Japan, is a peaceful haven where you can indulge in the healing waters of hot springs, satisfy your sweet tooth with amazing Japanese confections, and discover the area's rich literary tradition. The largest city on the island of Shikoku, Matsuyama developed around its celebrated 17th-century castle. Lined with cherry trees, this extensive fortress is a museum of historic relics from weaponry to armor, calligraphy and art. It also offers phenomenal views of the city and the Seto Inland Sea from its hilltop perch. Another city hotspot is Dogo Onsen, Japan's oldest hot springs. Known throughout Japan as a popular setting in the late author Natsume Soseki's famed novel, Botchan, Dogo Onsen features an elegant and inviting public bathhouse where many a visitor renews their spirit. Matsuyama is also the birthplace of Masaoka Shiki, considered the "Father of Modern Japanese Haiku Poetry," and there are several monuments to the haiku located throughout the city. From the hospitality at the hot springs to the renowned Matsuyama tarts and botchan dango (rice dumplings in bean paste), you won't want to leave this port!

Day 9 - Miyazaki, Japan

Arrive: Sun 14 March 2027 at 07:00 / Depart: Sun 14 March 2027 at 16:00

Boasting the second warmest temperatures in Japan, Miyazaki offers a playground of outdoor activities that take full advantage of its balmy breezes and aquamarine waters. A resort atmosphere permeates Miyazaki, fragranced by blooms from local botanical gardens. Emerald green golf courses, some of the best surfing in Japan, and a zoo with the largest number of flamingos in captivity in all of Japan add to the festive atmosphere. A Peace Tower, built with stones from throughout Asia anchors the city and Heiwadai Park and is one of the most noted landmarks. Visit Haniwa Gardens where over 400 replica haniwa (burial statues) make for wonderful photo opportunities, and see Miyazaki's history and culture on display at The Miyazaki Prefectural Museum of Nature and History, located on the same grounds as the picturesque Miyazaki Shrine. For a change of pace, stop into the Miyazaki Science Center where an animatronics "Dr. Cosmo" welcomes you to this hands-on museum. Looking for a little adventure? Try a side trip to Aoshima, a small island just off the coast of Miyazaki City, and enjoy the charming Aoshima Shrine and over 400 species of subtropical plants. The options are endless in Miyazaki to soak up local color…or just soak up the sun!

Day 10 - Kobe

Arrive: Mon 15 March 2027 at 09:00 / Depart: Mon 15 March 2027 at 23:00

The Port of Kobe is a Japanese maritime port in Kobe, Hy?go in the greater Osaka area, backgrounded by the Hanshin Industrial Region.

Day 11 - At Sea

Day 12 - Tokyo

Arrive: Wed 17 March 2027 at 06:30 / Depart: Wed 17 March 2027 at 19:00

Yokohama and Edo began life as sleepy fishing villages. That changed in the early 17th century after Tokugawa Ieyasu became Shogun. Edo became the center of political power in Japan, a position the city retained even after the restoration of Imperial rule in 1866. Contemporary Tokyo may be the most astonishing city on earth. It's a paradoxical mix of ancient tradition and postmodern culture. The Ginza - an international shopping mecca - stands near the serene grounds of the Imperial Palace, and the hyper-speed of 21st century consumerism is mysteriously reconciled with the elegance and serenity of traditional culture. Tokyo provides the traveler with a dizzying experience. With the Meiji Restoration of 1868, Edo was renamed Tokyo, the "Eastern Capital," to distinguish it from the old imperial capital at Kyoto, the "Western Capital."

Day 13 - Nagoya

Arrive: Thu 18 March 2027 / Depart: Thu 18 March 2027 at 15:00

Nagoya, capital of Japan’s Aichi Prefecture, is a manufacturing and shipping hub in central Honshu. The city’s Naka ward is home to museums and pachinko (gambling machine) parlors. Naka also includes the Sakae entertainment district, with attractions like the Sky-Boat Ferris wheel, which is attached to a mall.

Day 14 - Kobe

Arrive: Fri 19 March 2027 at 08:00 / Depart: Fri 19 March 2027 at 23:00

The Port of Kobe is a Japanese maritime port in Kobe, Hy?go in the greater Osaka area, backgrounded by the Hanshin Industrial Region.

Day 15 - Tokushima, Japan

Arrive: Sat 20 March 2027 at 08:00 / Depart: Sat 20 March 2027 at 18:00

Tokushima is the capital city of Tokushima Prefecture on Shikoku island in Japan. As of June 1, 2019, the city had an estimated population of 255,439 and a population density of 1,335 persons per km². Its total area is 191.39 km².

Day 16 - Kochi, Japan

Arrive: Sun 21 March 2027 at 07:00 / Depart: Sun 21 March 2027 at 17:00

Kochi sits on the broad alluvial plain facing Urado Bay. This city in Shikoku takes its name from the great feudal castle that sits at its very heart. Completed in 1611, Kochi Castle was the seat of Yamauchi Kazutoyo, a noted warrior who supported Tokugawa Ieyasu in his successful quest to become Shogun. Tosa Province and Kochi Castle were Yamauchi's reward for faithful service. There is an historical irony here: 250 years later, a Kochi native son - a former low-ranked samurai and now ronin named Sakamoto Ryoma - played a pivotal role in bringing the Tokugawa Shogunate to an end and restoring the Emperor of Japan to political prominence. The prize once awarded for faithful service had become a hotbed of support for the Meiji Restoration. Kochi is one of the wettest places in Japan - and a frequent target for cyclonic storms or typhoons. Southeast of the city, warm oceans currents washing against the Aki Mountains create a subtropical landscape of hibiscus, palm and ficus at Muroto-Anan Quasi-National Park.

Day 17 - At Sea

Day 18 - Nagasaki

Arrive: Tue 23 March 2027 at 08:00 / Depart: Tue 23 March 2027 at 16:00

For most travelers, Nagasaki is a symbol of the horror and the inhumanity of war. An estimated 75,000 people perished in 1945 when the city became the second target of a nuclear attack. Today, Nagasaki's Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum draw visitors from around the world. But this beautiful city on Kyushu offers other sights. Often described as the San Francisco of Japan, the city occupies verdant hills surrounded by a deep-water bay. For three centuries, Nagasaki was Japan's sole window on the world. The city is also celebrated as the setting for Puccini's opera "Madame Butterfly."

Day 19 - Busan, South Korea

Arrive: Wed 24 March 2027 at 07:00 / Depart: Wed 24 March 2027 at 16:00

The second largest city in South Korea, Busan is your gateway to a fascinating land whose culture is a unique amalgam of old and new. Modern high-rise towers dwarf ancient Buddhist temples. The city's bustling business district offers a stark contrast to the serene grounds of Yongdusan Park. In short, Busan is a microcosm of South Korea, a nation whose startling economic success often obscures one of Asia's most sophisticated and venerable cultures. Busan was the scene of bitter fighting during the Korean War. The United Nations Memorial Cemetery marks the final resting place for the troops from 16 nations who gave their lives during the conflict.

Day 20 - Kanmon Straits Scenic Cruising

Day 21 - Hiroshima

Arrive: Fri 26 March 2027 at 07:00 / Depart: Fri 26 March 2027 at 21:00

On August 6, 1945, human history was irrevocably altered when the American bomber Enola Gay dropped an atomic bomb on Hiroshima. The bomb was code-named "Little Boy," but its detonation left half the city in ruins and aflame. Today, Hiroshima is a monument not only to the destructive forces harnessed by men but also to the indomitable will of the human spirit to overcome tragedy. At the heart of the city lies Peace Memorial Park and the Atomic Bomb Dome. The gutted walls of the city's old Industry Promotion Hall and the skeletal frame that supported its copper dome, vaporized in the blast, are instantly recognizable symbols of Hiroshima. Travelers to Hiroshima will discover a more serene note at nearby Miyajima Island. One of the top-three scenic spots of Japan, the island is home to ancient Itsukushima Shrine, a designated National Treasure.

Day 22 - Beppu

Arrive: Sat 27 March 2027 at 09:00 / Depart: Sat 27 March 2027 at 17:00

Ominous steam rises from the Japanese island of Kyushu where Beppu lies in wait. But not to worry - this legendary tourist town is renowned for its healing geothermal waters and spas. Overlooking Beppu Bay to its east and protected from the west by dramatic mountain peaks, this exotic city is blanketed with misty turquoise waters and elegant Japanese foliage. Its main attraction is the "Hells of Beppu," a collection of nine stunning onsen, or hot springs, some of which feature geysers and colorful waters in shades from white to copper to sapphire. The springs' names, including Kamado-Jigoku (Boiling Hell) and Oniyama-Jigoku (Demon Mountain Hell), are somewhat misleading as all of the hot springs are breathtakingly beautiful rather than frightening - though your nose may cower and crinkle at the sulfurous odor they emit!

Day 23 - At Sea

Day 24 - Tokyo

Arrive: Mon 29 March 2027 at 06:30 / Depart: Mon 29 March 2027

Yokohama and Edo began life as sleepy fishing villages. That changed in the early 17th century after Tokugawa Ieyasu became Shogun. Edo became the center of political power in Japan, a position the city retained even after the restoration of Imperial rule in 1866. Contemporary Tokyo may be the most astonishing city on earth. It's a paradoxical mix of ancient tradition and postmodern culture. The Ginza - an international shopping mecca - stands near the serene grounds of the Imperial Palace, and the hyper-speed of 21st century consumerism is mysteriously reconciled with the elegance and serenity of traditional culture. Tokyo provides the traveler with a dizzying experience. With the Meiji Restoration of 1868, Edo was renamed Tokyo, the "Eastern Capital," to distinguish it from the old imperial capital at Kyoto, the "Western Capital."