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 multi-course 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 – 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 14: 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 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.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
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. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
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.
(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
