ABTA 40 Years | Mon-Fri: 9am to 5:30pm | Sat: 9am to 5pm | Sun & Bank Holidays: 10am to 4:00pm

Travel Club Elite Logo

0800 707 6229

ENQUIRE NOW

Travel Club Elite Logo

Wendy Wu In Depth Japan

Enquire for Huge Savings

Wendy Wu In Depth Japan

Call free – 0800 707 6229 – or enquire for huge extra savings on Wendy Wu In Depth Japan

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Japan’s captivating history and vibrant culture with this immersive land and sea adventure. Combining the comfort of cruising aboard the Norwegian Jade with the expertly curated experiences of a Wendy Wu Tours land itinerary, this Cruise & Tour experience offers the best of both worlds. Discover the charm of Kyoto, meet the endearing snow monkeys, and set sail around Honshu – Japan’s largest island, with added visits to South Korea and the scenic shores of Kyushu along the way.

Please note that there are a number of variations for the cruise section of this tour, with ports of call included dependent on departure date.

Throughout your cruise, when your ship comes into port, there will be a range of excursions available to help you explore each destination. These excursions are at your own expense and are bookable on your cruise reservation

Days 1-2: Arrive Osaka
Fly overnight to the dynamic city of Osaka. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in Kyoto, where you can relax or begin exploring at your own pace.
(Dinner)

Day 3: Explore Kyoto
Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Japan’s ancient capital. Begin with the dazzling Golden Pavilion, followed by a moment of reflection at the Zen Garden of Ryoan-ji, known as the ‘Temple of the Peaceful Dragon’. Later, stroll through the tranquil Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and across the scenic Togetsukyo Bridge.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 4: Kyoto’s Sacred Sites and Sake
Explore the iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple, perched on a hillside with sweeping city views. Enjoy a traditional sukiyaki hotpot lunch, then dive into the culture of sake with a visit and tasting at the Matsui Shuzou Museum. End the day with a walk through the famous torii gate-lined trails of Fushimi Inari Shrine.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 5: Bullet Train to the Alps
Ride the sleek shinkansen (bullet train) to Nagano in the Japanese Alps. Visit the serene 7th-century Zenkoji Temple, then unwind in your traditional ryokan accommodation with a relaxing soak in an onsen and a kaiseki dinner.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 6: Snow Monkeys & Mount Fuji Views
Travel to Jigokudani Monkey Park to see Japan’s famous snow monkeys. Continue to Lake Kawaguchi and Oishi Park for incredible views of Mount Fuji, then journey on to the vibrant capital, Tokyo.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 7: Explore Tokyo
Start your Tokyo exploration at Senso-ji, the city’s oldest temple, and browse the colourful Nakamise Street. Enjoy a sushi-making class for lunch before seeing the Imperial Palace, Meiji Shrine, and Takeshita Street. Cap off the day with a photo stop at Shibuya Crossing.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 8: Board the Norwegian Jade
After breakfast, transfer to the port to embark on your cruise aboard the Norwegian Jade. Spend the rest of the day settling in and exploring the ship.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 9: Cruise – Sendai*
Today, the ship docks in Ishinomaki. From here, you can explore Sendai, the ‘City of Trees’
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 10: Cruise – Hakodate*
Explore the historic charm of Hakodate. Perhaps take a gondola to the observation deck or wander through the markets
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 11: Cruise – Aomori*
Located in northern Honshu, Aomori offers rugged coastlines, peaceful apple orchards, and the scenic beauty of Lake Towada and Oirase Gorge.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 12: Cruise – Akita*
Akita and its surroundings are known for their rich samurai history which you may wish to explore by visiting Kakunodate. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 13: Cruise – Sakata*
Arrive in Sakata, where you can admire the preserved merchant houses or visit the Somaro Teahouse.
(Breakfast, lunch & dinner)

Day 14: Cruise – Kanazawa*
The ship docks in Kanazawa. While here, you may wish to visit Kenrouken, one of Japan’s Great Gardens or visit the Museum of Contemporary Arts.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 15: Cruise – Busan*
Cross over to South Korea and arrive in Busan, a vibrant coastal city with a unique blend of beaches, mountains, markets, and street food culture.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 16: Cruise – Sasebo*
Port at Sasebo, famous for its beautiful bay that has over 200 rocky islands and islets.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 17: Cruise – Hiroshima*
Arrive in Hiroshima today, where you might consider visiting the Peace Park to learn about the past.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 18: Cruise – Kochi*
Laid-back Kochi is known for its 400-year-old castle, coastal Geopark, and love of surfing. Stroll its lively markets or relax in the great outdoors.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 19: Cruise – Kyoto*
Return to Osaka, gateway to Kyoto. Revisit ancient temples, savour local street food, or enjoy a final taste of Japan’s timeless traditions.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 20: Cruise – Nagoya*
Dock in Nagoya today. Visit its impressive castle, enjoy green gardens, or dive into the city’s rich heritage of craftsmanship and technology.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 21: Cruise – Mount Fuji*
Arrive in Shimizu, perfectly placed for viewing Mount Fuji. Explore nearby cultural sites, stroll along ancient pine groves, or discover castle ruins and traditional gardens.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 22: Disembark in Tokyo
Disembark from the Norwegian Jade and meet your guide for a transfer to your Tokyo hotel. The rest of the day is free to enjoy at your leisure.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 23: Return to the UK
Transfer to the airport for your flight back to the UK, arriving the same or following day.
(Breakfast)

*Throughout your cruise, when your ship comes into port, there will be a range of excursions available to help you explore each destination. These excursions are at your own expense and are bookable on your cruise reservation

Days 1-2: Arrive Osaka
Fly overnight to the dynamic city of Osaka. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in Kyoto, where you can relax or begin exploring at your own pace.
(Dinner)

Day 3: Explore Kyoto
Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Japan’s ancient capital. Begin with the dazzling Golden Pavilion, followed by a moment of reflection at the Zen Garden of Ryoan-ji, known as the ‘Temple of the Peaceful Dragon’. Later, stroll through the tranquil Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and across the scenic Togetsukyo Bridge.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 4: Kyoto’s Sacred Sites and Sake
Explore the iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple, perched on a hillside with sweeping city views. Enjoy a traditional sukiyaki hotpot lunch, then dive into the culture of sake with a visit and tasting at the Matsui Shuzou Museum. End the day with a walk through the famous torii gate-lined trails of Fushimi Inari Shrine.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 5: Bullet Train to the Alps
Ride the sleek shinkansen (bullet train) to Nagano in the Japanese Alps. Visit the serene 7th-century Zenkoji Temple, then unwind in your traditional ryokan accommodation with a relaxing soak in an onsen and a kaiseki dinner.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 6: Snow Monkeys & Mount Fuji Views
Travel to Jigokudani Monkey Park to see Japan’s famous snow monkeys. Continue to Lake Kawaguchi and Oishi Park for incredible views of Mount Fuji, then journey on to the vibrant capital, Tokyo.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 7: Explore Tokyo
Start your Tokyo exploration at Senso-ji, the city’s oldest temple, and browse the colourful Nakamise Street. Enjoy a sushi-making class for lunch before seeing the Imperial Palace, Meiji Shrine, and Takeshita Street. Cap off the day with a photo stop at Shibuya Crossing.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 8: Board the Norwegian Jade
After breakfast, transfer to the port to embark on your cruise aboard the Norwegian Jade. Spend the rest of the day settling in and exploring the ship.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 9: Cruise – Shimizu (Mt Fuji)*
Dock in the port of Shimizu today, from which you can enjoy brilliant views of Mount Fuji.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 10: Cruise – Nagoya*
Call at Japan’s 4th largest city, where you can see the Atsuta Shrine, one of Japan’s most sacred Shinto shrines or try some local delicacies such as miso katsu and grilled eel.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 11: Cruise – Osaka (Kyoto)*
Get the chance to explore Osaka today, or head back to Kyoto for some more time there.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 12: Cruise – Kochi*
The ship arrives in Kochi where you can visit the castle, one of just 12 in Japan that still has its original keep or explore Hirome Market.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 13: Cruise – Hiroshima*
Arrive in Hiroshima today, where you might consider visiting the Peace Park to learn about and reflect on the past.
(Breakfast, lunch & dinner)

Day 14: Cruise – Kagoshima*
Arrive into Kagoshima today, a city sitting in the shadow of Mt Sakurajima, an active volcano.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 15: Cruise – Nagasaki*
Today, visit the city of Nagasaki where you can visit the Atomic Bomb Museum and Peace Park or explore Dejima Wharf, once the only entry point for European traders.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 16: Cruise – Busan*
Cross over to South Korea and arrive in Busan, a vibrant coastal city with a unique blend of beaches, mountains, markets, and street food culture.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 17: Cruise – Kanazawa*
Dock in Kanazawa, a city known for its samurai districts as well as the beautiful Kenroku-en Garden.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 18: Cruise – Akita*
Port in Akita on the northwest coast of Honshu. Here you can visit the town of Kakunodate, a well preserved samurai district or try some of the sake produced here, said to be some of Japan’s finest.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 19: Cruise – Aomori*
Located right at the north of Honshu, Aomori is known for its rugged coastline as well as the scenic Lake Towada and the Oirase Gorge.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 20: Cruise – Hakodate*
Explore the historic charm of Hakodate. Perhaps take a gondola to the observation deck or wander through the markets
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 21: Cruise – Ishinomaki (Sendai)*
Today, the ship docks in Ishinomaki. From here, you can explore Sendai, the ‘City of Trees’
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 22: Disembark in Tokyo
Disembark from the Norwegian Jade and meet your guide for a transfer to your Tokyo hotel. The rest of the day is free to enjoy at your leisure.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 23: Return to the UK
Transfer to the airport for your flight back to the UK, arriving the same or following day.
(Breakfast)

*Throughout your cruise, when your ship comes into port, there will be a range of excursions available to help you explore each destination. These excursions are at your own expense and are bookable on your cruise reservation

Ride the Bullet Train
No trip to Japan is complete without experiencing the iconic Shinkansen. Sit back and enjoy the thrill as you glide through picturesque landscapes at speeds of up to 200 mph aboard the world-renowned bullet train.

Sake Tasting
Step inside a traditional sake brewery and discover the time-honoured techniques behind Japan’s beloved rice wine. Learn about the brewing process and enjoy a few delightful tastings along the way.

Sushi Making
Sushi in Japan is more than just food – it’s an expression of harmony, craftsmanship, and tradition. Under the guidance of a skilled sushi chef, take part in a hands-on class in Tokyo where you’ll learn the basics of sushi making before enjoying your culinary creations with your fellow travellers.

  • International flights and current taxes
  • 4* accommodation
  • 14 night cruise with NCL
  • NCL’s More At Sea™ package
  • All meals: 21 breakfasts, 20 lunches and 21 dinners
  • Domestic transportation
  • Touring with guides and entrance fees

Cruise & Tour
These tours combine the best of the world’s ocean cruises with award-winning touring itineraries to create unforgettable holidays. The fully inclusive touring ethos, where everything is taken care of, is the perfect match for a carefree voyage to the exotic corners of the world.

This tour has a physical rating of 1. A reasonable level of fitness is required. Expect to be on your feet for most of the day walking around sights, often including steps and getting on and off coaches, trains, or boats. Occasional longer walks may be included.

Travel Club Elite sat down with Chris from Wendy Wu Tours to talk through their incredible array of tours to one of the world’s most fascinating destinations – Japan. Chris shares his personal adventures through the Land of the Rising Sun, painting vivid pictures of bustling cities, serene temples, and breath-taking landscapes. From the neon-lit streets of Tokyo to the tranquil gardens of Kyoto, he takes us on a journey through the heart of Japanese culture and history – Read the full view by clicking the link below:

 

Exploring Japan with Wendy Wu Tours – Travel Club Elite

Watch the full version of this review on on our YouTube channel, or listen to the podcast on Spotify, Amazon Music or Apple Podcasts.

Exclusive prices available on request. Our Pricing Policy.

Please call us free on 0800 707 6229 for pricing and availability

Useful Info

Location

Japan, Asia

Board Basis

All Meals

Duration

23 Days

Holiday Type

Cruise & Tour

Need more information?

Get in touch

Provided By

Wendy Wu Tours

Wendy Wu Special Offers

Cruise & Tour Brochure Launch – Save up to £900pp | China & Central Asia Brochure Launch – Save up to £795pp | Early Bird Japan – Book 2028 at 2027 prices | Early Bird – Save up to £600pp | Free Japan Business Class Upgrade | No Regional Flight Supplements | Extra Savings on top from us!

Get A Quote

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
Departure Date(Required)
Consent

Huge & Exclusive Savings, Call Now!

0800 707 6229

Prices subject to Terms and Conditions

Trustpilot

Recommended Collections

Wendy Wu Japan Teaser
Wendy Wu Japan Tours

From the rolling rice fields, traditional tea houses and temples to the snow-capped horizon of Mount Fuji, all Wendy Wu Japan Tours are accompanied from beginning to end by a dedicated, knowledgeable National Escort.

Why Book With Us?

  • 40 Years ABTA membership & experience
  • Free advice
  • Exclusive savings
  • Rated 5* on Trust Pilot
Find Out More

Sign Up to Our Newsletter

Get The Latest Offers

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Download Now

Enter Details To Download

"*" indicates required fields

Name*
Marketing Emails