23-day itinerary:
Days 1–2: Arrive in Osaka, Transfer to Kyoto
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.
Included: Dinner
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Day 3: Discover the Treasures of 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.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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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.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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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 multi-course kaiseki dinner.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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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.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Day 7: Tokyo Highlights & Sushi Making
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.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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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.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Day 9: Cruise – Sendai (Ishinomaki)
Dock near Sendai, known as the ‘City of Trees’. Surrounded by mountains and sea, this lively city offers rich culture, cuisine, and beautiful natural landscapes including volcanoes and hot springs.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Day 10: Cruise – Hakodate
Explore the historic charm of Hakodate, home to the star-shaped Goryokaku Fort. Ride the gondola up Mount Hakodate for panoramic views or enjoy local seafood delights like the famous kaisen-don.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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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.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Day 12: Cruise – Akita
Step into Japan’s samurai past in Akita. Visit Kakunodate’s preserved samurai district or unwind in nearby hot springs and sample some of the region’s acclaimed sake.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Day 13: Cruise – Kanazawa
In Kanazawa, explore the elegant Kenrokuen Garden – one of Japan’s finest, and the fascinating 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Day 14: Cruise – Busan, South Korea
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.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Day 15: Cruise – Nagasaki
Back in Japan, explore Nagasaki’s compelling history, coastal scenery, and multicultural charm. Visit the Peace Park or discover the European-influenced architecture and historic churches.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Day 16: Cruise – Kagoshima
Dock in Kagoshima, framed by the active Sakurajima volcano. This southern city is rich in history, natural beauty, and delicious regional cuisine.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Day 17: Cruise – Hiroshima
Arrive in Hiroshima, a city of peace and resilience. Consider a visit to Peace Memorial Park and Museum to reflect on its past, or explore its vibrant modern streets.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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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.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Day 19: Cruise – Kyoto (via Osaka Port)
Return to Osaka, gateway to Kyoto. Revisit ancient temples, savour local street food, or enjoy a final taste of Japan’s timeless traditions.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Day 20: Cruise – Nagoya
Nagoya blends industry and tradition. Visit its impressive castle, enjoy green gardens, or dive into the city’s rich heritage of craftsmanship and technology.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Day 21: Cruise – Mount Fuji (Shimizu)
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.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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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.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Day 23: Return to the UK
Transfer to the airport for your flight back to the UK, arriving the same or following day.
Included: Breakfast