Japan Intensive: Kobe, Takamatsu & Tokyo Cruise

Day 1 - Kobe

Arrive: Sat 03 April 2027

Famous for the beef that bears it name, Kobe is headquarters for numerous Japanese and international firms, and has long been an important port. It is also a short bullet train ride from Kyoto, ancient capital of Japan from the 8th to the 19th century. Here vestiges of the past are easier to find than in many of Japan's modern, high-tech cities: countless temples and shrines, the palaces and castles of shoguns and emperors, and narrow lanes paved in stone and lined with wooden buildings housing shops and restaurants that have been serving travelers for centuries.

Day 2 - Kobe

Depart: Sun 04 April 2027 at 18:00

Famous for the beef that bears it name, Kobe is headquarters for numerous Japanese and international firms, and has long been an important port. It is also a short bullet train ride from Kyoto, ancient capital of Japan from the 8th to the 19th century. Here vestiges of the past are easier to find than in many of Japan's modern, high-tech cities: countless temples and shrines, the palaces and castles of shoguns and emperors, and narrow lanes paved in stone and lined with wooden buildings housing shops and restaurants that have been serving travelers for centuries.

Day 3 - Hiroshima

Arrive: Mon 05 April 2027 / Depart: Mon 05 April 2027

This "city of water and peace" is built in one of the most sheltered harbors on the Seto Inland Sea and is much more than the painful past it both honors and defies. Reflect and ring the bell of peace at Peace Memorial Park, then ferry to the holy island of Miyajima, famed for its Itsukushima Shrine and floating torii.

Day 4 - Yeosu, South Korea

Arrive: Tue 06 April 2027 / Depart: Tue 06 April 2027

Warm oceanic climate. Island dotted coast. Brilliant night lights. Nestled between verdant mountains, Yeosu has small town charm with big city potential. This hidden gem on the southern coast of South Korea is on the verge of becoming a world-class vacation destination.

Day 5 - Nagasaki

Arrive: Wed 07 April 2027 / Depart: Wed 07 April 2027

Historically rich Nagasaki features beautiful seaside scenery and fabulous nighttime views from its mountain slopes. Secluded hot springs, fascinating museums, and ornate temples live side by side in this exciting city. Ten natural parks grace the area, and unique festivals can be experienced throughout the year. Walk through streets influenced by both Chinese and European cultures in fascinating Nagasaki.

Day 6 - Kagoshima, Japan

Arrive: Thu 08 April 2027 / Depart: Thu 08 April 2027

Discover the natural beauty of seaside Kagoshima, a city surrounded by beautiful mountain backdrops and dozens of local hot springs. While nearly all visitors make their way to see the volcanic heights of Mt. Sakurajima, attractions such as the historic village of Chiran and the Kagoshima Botanical Garden prove equally compelling places to stop and take a deep breath.

Day 7 - At Sea

Day 8 - Takamatsu, Japan

Arrive: Sat 10 April 2027 / Depart: Sat 10 April 2027

On the Seto Inland Sea, looking out over the Sanuki mountain range, sits the island of Shikoku and the old castle town of Takamatsu, Japan. Now a vibrant city, Takamatsu has been an economic hub of the region since the Edo period. To get a sense of its history, visit Tamamo-koen Park. The 16th century Takamatsu Castle had been destroyed, but there’s still plenty to explore: ruins, water moats, and classic Japanese-style yagura or turrets.

Day 9 - Nagoya

Arrive: Sun 11 April 2027 / Depart: Sun 11 April 2027

Day 10 - Tokyo

Arrive: Mon 12 April 2027 at 08:00 / Depart: Mon 12 April 2027

It’s hard to imagine Tokyo as a tiny fishing village named Edo. Tokyo is now the largest metropolitan area in the world, an exciting city with a seemingly unlimited choice of shopping, restaurants, museums, temples, and gardens to visit.