The first destination of this tour is the beautiful Himeji Castle.  Due to its clear white colored exterior, the castle is also known as the "white heron castle" because of its resemblance to the white heron.  The entire castle ground spans to approximately 568 acres and is equipped with eye-catching moats that surround and protect the castle. After the castle, the tour will then visit the Kokoen Garden which is approximately 8.5 acres in size with nine different gardens. The garden features ponds and springs against the backdrop of the World Cultural Heritage Himeji Castle. After having lunch at a local restaurant, the tour will drive to the Nadagiku Sake Brewery for sake tasting as well as a visit to its facility. Carrying over the 100 years of tradition, the brewery and their fine sakes are sure to touch all the five senses. Afterward, board your coach and return to the pier.

Please note: This tour includes approximately 2.5 hours of walking with a number of steps to negotiate. There are approximately 200 steps at the Himeji Castle. Shoes must be removed to enter Himeji Castle and the steps inside the castle are very steep. Those guests with mobility concerns are cautioned to evaluate their personal level of ability and stamina. Casual clothing and comfortable, flat walking shoes are recommended. Bring local currency for shopping.

Explore Japan's third largest city, Osaka, on this intriguing half-day tour. One of the gateways to ancient Japan for traders from China, Korea and the Asian continent, Osaka played a vital role in the introduction of new technologies in ceramics, forging, construction, and engineering. Today, this modern port city combines historical and cultural attractions with all the delights of a Japanese urban marvel. Following a 60-minute drive, see the impressive landmark, Osaka Castle. One of Japan's most famous castles, it played a major role in the unification of Japan during the 16th century. Built on a plot of land almost 1 mile square, the castle compound contains 13 structures, designated as Important Cultural Assets by the Japanese government. The central castle building is 5 stories on the outside and 8 stories on the inside, built atop a massive stone foundation that protected its occupants from sword-bearing attackers. Of particular interest are the tower's ornamental ride-end roof tiles, and bas-reliefs carved in the shape of crouching tigers, all gilded with gold. An engaging museum occupies the interior of the building, tracing the history of the castle from the late 1500s to the present day, and housing Osaka's most significant historical and cultural artifacts. After a guide tour of the castle, proceed to the Shitennoji Temple which was constructed over 1,400 years ago to commemorate the victory of the war and to provide relief and settlement the king. Today, the Shitennoji Temple remains as one of the oldest architectural styles that are preserved today in Japan.  

Please note: This tour includes approximately 3 hours of walking with a number of steps to negotiate. Photography and video are not permitted inside Osaka Castle (3rd & 4th floors). Those guests with mobility concerns are cautioned to evaluate their personal level of ability and stamina.  From the parking to Osaka Castle is approximately a 15-minute walk.

Explore three of Kyoto's marquee attractions: the impressive Golden Pavilion, Sanjusangendo and formidable Nijo Castle, a quintessential example of Momoyama architecture, which flourished 400 years ago. Depart from the pier and drive inland toward Kyoto, an immensely historical city renowned for spectacular architecture, which includes thousands of Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines. Your first visit is Sanjusangendo, which is the popular name for Rengeo-in, a temple in eastern Kyoto which is famous for its 1001 statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. The temple was founded in 1164 and rebuilt a century later after original structure had been destroyed in a fire. The temple hall, measuring 394 feet (120 meters), is the longest Japanese wooden structure. Next is Nijo Castle, a fortification of cypress wood built in 1603 as the residence of the Tokugawa clan. An esteemed UNESCO World Heritage Site, the castle is protected by a moat, stone walls, and ingenious nightingale floors, which chirp like a bird when walked upon to alert the guards of potential intruders. Despite its defensive elements, the castle was primarily a home. It's adorned with wooden carvings, artistically painted sliding doors and expansive tatami rooms, decorated in the traditional style at the time. After having lunch, you will be headed to Kyoto's most famous landmark, Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion). Built by Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu as a villa in 1397, the 3-story home was converted to a temple by Yoshimitsu's son. The Golden Pavilion follows the Shinden style of the Heian Period by being positioned at the edge of a tranquil pond. It has delicately curving roofs, with the walls and eaves of the second and third stories covered in shimmering gold leaf. View the exterior of the pavilion and walk through the peaceful gardens, marveling at the mirror reflection of the temple on the still pond.

Please note: This tour includes approximately 3 hours of walking with a number of steps to negotiate. There are 30 steps at the Kinkakuji Temple. Those guests with mobility concerns are cautioned to evaluate their personal level of ability and stamina. Casual clothing and comfortable, flat walking shoes are recommended. Bring local currency for shopping. Photography and video are not permitted inside Nijo Castle (Ninomaru Palace) and Sanjusangendo. Shoes must be removed to enter Nijo Castle and Sanjusangendo. Nijo Castle is under a 20-year restoration project therefore some parts of castle may be closed. The order of sites visited may vary.

The tour will begin with a visit to Ikuta Shrine located in the Sannomiya District.  This shrine which dates back to 201 A.D. is one of the oldest shrines in the country.  To the Japanese, this shrine is known to bring wellness in marriage. Afterward, the tour will continue to the Nada District, Japan's top sake producing region. You will visit one of the most well-known Sake Brewery Museums where guests can get a feel of the "heart of Japan" through the art of sake. Sake tasting will be held as well as the tour of its production facility. Afterwards, you will be welcomed at the Teppanyaki Restaurant to get a taste of the famous Kobe local beef.  

Please note: Bring local currency and wear comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen and a hat.

This tour will be all about the internationally acclaimed Kobe Beef. From the pier, the coach will bring you directly to the restaurant for dinner to experience this prestigious delicacy.  The Kobe beef is renowned for its mouth-watering flavor, tenderness, and high amount of intramuscular fat, giving the meat a marbled appearance. It is often cited that the cows are given beer to induce appetite, massaged daily, and given the utmost treatment in its raising.   Overall, a must-try experience in its most authentic form at its heartland of Hyogo Prefecture. Afterward, return to your coach and back to your cruise ship.

Please note: Bring local currency.

The tour will begin with a visit to the 7-story-tall Fukuyama Castle.  The castle suffered extensive damage during World War II, where most of the castle was destroyed. It was rebuilt in 1966 which is the structure that remains today.  Within the museum, you can see artwork from the Fukuyama area as well as modern and contemporary Japanese artwork.  Afterward, the tour will visit Myooin Temple which is designated as a Japanese National Treasure. Myooin Temple was founded by Kobo-Daishi or Kukai and it is said that its main hall was built in 1321. You will also find a 5-storied Pagoda which was built is 1348. Afterwards, drive back to the pier and finish off with a guided walking tour of the picturesque port town of Tomonoura.

Please note: Wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes, sunscreen, and a hat. Bring local currency.

Onomichi, a quaint town that sits on many slopes is in the eastern part of Hiroshima Prefecture. As one of the highlights of Onomichi, the tour will first visit the Jodoji Temple of Shingon Buddhism. This temple has a main hall and a 2-story pagoda that has been designated as one of the National Treasures of Japan. Next, the tour will travel to Senkoji Ropeway to ride up to the Senkoji Park Observatory. From the observatory, you will be able to appreciate the breathtaking view of the small picturesque town of Onomichi.  After seeing Senkoji Temple, you will walk to Neko no Hosomichi or 'Cat Alley.' This area was given its name as there are many Fukuishi Cat stones. These stones were painted as cats by local artist, Shunji Sonoyama and have been popular for cat lovers. Little fortune-stone-cats are found all over the alley to welcome you.

Please note: Wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes, sunscreen, and a hat. Bring local currency. This tour is not available for the guests with mobility concerns. The walking trail from Senkoji Park to the bus stop though the Cat Alley is more than ¾ of a mile (1km) at 245 feet (75 meters) elevation. This is a one-way walk so all the guests are required to walk with the guide all the way back to the parking lot. There are more than 500 steps in Senkoji and the Cat Alley area and some parts of the slope may be a sharp descent.

 

Indulge in the Zen way with this visit to Shinshoji Zen Museum and Gardens. Here is the perfect place to learn about the Culture of Zen that streams all throughout its architecture, design, and lifestyle. This temple and its garden was constructed in 1965 to provide a Zen experience. There are several halls and one is a 350 years old building brought over from Shiga Prefecture. Throughout this visit, you will partake in a class experience introducing you to the Zen way. You will also be able to stroll through the Temple and its garden while getting a better understanding of the details in the designs seen throughout the property. Afterwards, drive back to the pier and finish off with a guided walking tour of the picturesque port town of Tomonoura.

Please note: Wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes, sunscreen, and a hat. Bring local currency. During Zen meditation class, guests are required to take off shoes and sit on a floor pillow. No chairs will be provided. Zen meditation itself is approximately 20-30 minutes of sitting.

Today, the local guide will take you on a tour in Nagasaki, the second city destroyed by an A-bomb in World War II.  Your first stop will be at Atomic Bomb Museum, which tells about the aftermath of the bombing.  You will see over 900 artifacts indicative of the city’s devastation, as well as displays on modern nuclear technology and concerns Next, your guide will take you to the Peace Memorial Park, commemorating the city’s destruction by the plutonium bomb dropped on August 9, 1945. Although Fat Man, the name given to the second bomb dropped on Japan, missed its target by over a mile and a half, it leveled nearly half the city. The park’s main attraction is its collection of statues and sculptures donated by countries and groups all over the world. This includes the massive Peace Memorial Statue depicting a man with his right arm pointing to the sky to indicate the continued threat of nuclear destruction.  Continue to Dejima Island which was built during the Edo Period to accommodate Portuguese Christian missionaries and prevent the propagation of their religion. It was also once the residential quarters of the Dutch, the only foreigners allowed to trade in Japan during the Sakoku (isolation) Period of 200 years, until Japan reopened to the world.

Please note: Wear comfortable walking shoes.

This half day option will offer you the opportunity to make a special souvenir from Yakushima on your own. You will receive the sticks of Yakusugi and make them to chopsticks using sandpaper. This will give you a special experience which can only be offered in Yakushima. In this activity, you will be sanding chopsticks by yourself to the size you like, and you will keep these special chopsticks to take home with you. You will also visit Yakusugi Museum dedicated to Yakusugi, the cedar trees.  This museum has unique exhibits to explain the vegetation of Yakusugi as well as the history of Yakushima. You will get the idea of how people have lived with Yakusugi in the past, and how these precious trees are protected.

Please note: Wear comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen and a hat and bring rain gear and local currency. Guests are required to take off their shoes at the Yakusugi Museum. Each guests will have one set of chopsticks.  The venue for the chopsticks experience is on the 2nd floor with no elevator/escalator.

This tour is recommended for the guests who want to see the old Cedar trees without walking! The coach will take you up to Kigensugi Cedar which has a trunk circumference of 26.5 feet (8.1 meters) and a height of 64 feet (19.5 meters), and an estimated age of more than 3,000 years. You will also visit Yakusugi Museum dedicated to Yakusugi, the cedar trees. This museum has unique exhibits to explain the vegetation of Yakusugi as well as the history of Yakushima. You will get the idea of how people have lived with Yakusugi in the past, and how these precious trees are protected.

Please note: Wear comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen and a hat and bring rain gear and local currency. Guests are required to take off their shoes at the Yakusugi Museum. At Kigensugi cedar, the guests can see the tree from the parking but also walk closer. To get close to the tree, there are approx. 50 steps to negotiate.

A 70-minute drive will bring you to the island of Yakushima which became Japan’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993. Yakushima is famous in botanical circles for introducing a great many garden plants, including dwarf plants which have evolved to grow smaller than their mainland cousins. You will spend time here on a nature walk to Yakusugi Land located at an elevation of 3,281 feet (1,000 meters). It is a nature park populated by a number of the Island’s ancient cedar trees, such as the 1,800-year-old Buddhasugi, Futagosugi, and Sennensugi. There are 4 walking routes in Yakusugi land and you will also walk for 1.25 miles (2km) on the mountain trail. While walking, you will see a very clear stream running through the forest, and the unique plant life on the island. Also, there will be a good chance to see wildlife such as the Yaku Monkey and Yaku Deer from the coach.

Please note: Wear comfortable walking or hiking shoes, sunscreen and a hat and bring rain gear and local currency.  The Yakusugi land tends to be raining most of the times so please expect the rain during a walk. There are some wooden paths and swinging bridges. Some paths are unpaved and not covered. Lots of steps. This tour is not available for the guests with mobility concerns. The guests will have to walk on the slippery roots and duck under the branches.

A 70-minute drive will bring you to the island of Yakushima which became Japan’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993. Yakushima is famous in botanical circles for introducing a great many garden plants, including dwarf plants which have evolved to grow smaller than their mainland cousins. You will spend time here on a nature walk to Yakusugi Land located at an elevation of 3,281 feet (1,000 meters). It is a nature park populated by a number of the Island’s ancient and revered cedar trees, such as the 1,800-year-old Buddhasugi, Futagosugi, and Sennensugi. There are 4 walking routes in Yakusugi land and you will also walk for a little over a half mile (1.2 km) on the mountain trail. While walking, you will see a very clear stream running through the forest, and the unique plant life on the island. Also, there will be a good chance to see wildlife such as the Yaku Monkey and Yaku Deer from the coach. Next you will visit Yakusugi Museum dedicated to Yakusugi, the cedar trees.  This museum has unique exhibits to explain the vegetation of Yakusugi as well as the history of Yakushima. You will get the idea of how people have lived with Yakusugi in the past, and how these precious trees are protected.

Please note: Wear comfortable walking or hiking shoes, sunscreen and a hat and bring rain gear and local currency. The Yakusugi land tends to be raining most of the times so please expect the rain during a walk. There are some wooden paths and swinging bridges. Some paths are unpaved and not covered. Lots of steps. This tour is not available for the guests with mobility concerns. Guests are required to take off their shoes at the Yakusugi Museum.

Your day will start with Oshimatsumugi Kimono village where you can see local industry and watch the process of making Tsumugi and Kasuri silk-cotton fabrics. You can enjoy a craft complex in a beautiful hillside setting among flowers and many of the plants used in dyeing. Next is to Tanaka Isson Museum and the Amami Park.  Tanaka Isson is a nationally proclaimed artist of Japan who is deeply connected with Amami Island and widely known for his flower and bird paintings. Enjoy his great pieces of artwork as well as the folk museum. You will also have time to stroll around the Amami Park and the observation deck with the great view of the surrounding area.

Please note:  Bring local currency sunscreen, a hat, a towel, and a light jacket and wear comfortable shoes and clothes that are easy to walk in.

The first visit of this tour will be the Shochu Distillery, makers of the Kokuto Shochu a distilled spirit made exclusively in Amami Islands. Shochu is most often distilled nationwide using ingredients such as rice or sweet potato.  However, at the Shochu Distillery in Amami, their Kokuto Shochu is uniquely made from brown sugar. You will experience the state-of-the-art distillation process that goes into the creation of this one of a kind Shochu that is rich in flavor and aroma. To conclude the distillery factory tour, you will have an opportunity to taste the different types of Shochu. You will visit Oshimatsumugi Kimono village for a tour of its dyed silk weaving factory. During this tour, you will also participate in the mud dying process to craft a handkerchief of your own. Souvenirs and textile goods can also be purchased at the gift shop to bring an authentic item back home. Afterward, return to the pier.

Please note:  Bring local currency sunscreen, a hat, a towel, and a light jacket and wear comfortable shoes and clothes that are easy to walk in.  You will be required to take off shoes during dyeing experience and will step into the muddy water for dyeing process. It is highly recommended to wear the slacks which you can roll them up to the knees.

Since Amami Oshima Island is an island where flowers in the deep and dark old-growth forest bloom in profusion throughout the year and where one-of-a-kind plants and animals call home, this island is also known as the “Oriental Galapagos.” Amami Oshima Island is a treasure chest of valuable plants and animals including a mangrove primeval forest. It is Japan’s second largest in terms of area, and is inhabited by the Amami Rabbit, a national protected species, and seeks to be registered as a World Heritage Site. In Mangrove Park, canoeing through the mangroves is popular. This tour is recommended for athletic lovers. You will be required to wear life jacket and do some practice before canoeing and have enough strength to paddle the canoe on your own.On the way to the pier, you will make a photo stop to see the panoramic view of Naze port.

Please note: Bring local currency. sunscreen, a hat, a towel, and a light jacket and wear comfortable shoes and clothes that are easy to walk in. Life jacket will be provided. Guests are required to have enough strength to paddle the canoe on their own. Cameras should be protected from the water and will be the responsibility of the guest. Your feet may get wet in the canoe so it is recommended to wear or bring sandals.

The first destination of this tour is a visit to Tanaka Isson Museum and the Amami Park.  Tanaka Isson is a nationally proclaimed artist of Japan who is deeply connected with Amami Island and widely known for his flower and bird paintings. Enjoy his great pieces of artwork as well as the folk museum. You will also have a time to stroll around the Amami Park and the observation deck with a great view of the surrounding area. Next is to Bashayama Village where you can enjoy lunch including Keihan which is one of the best specialties in Amami. Keihan consists of chicken, egg and various other ingredients placed on rice and covered in chicken broth - it is known as Amami’s soul food. During the lunch time, enjoy local people playing the instrument called Shamisen with a drum accompaniment. After lunch, you will have some free time to stroll on the beautiful beach or Kenmun-Mura where old traditional houses are lined up.  You will be taken to Oshimatsumugi Kimono village where you can see local industry and watch the process of making Tsumugi and Kasuri silk-cotton fabrics. You can enjoy a craft complex in a beautiful hillside setting among flowers and many of the plants used in dyeing. The last stop will be the Shochu Distillery, makers of the Kokuto Shochu a distilled spirit made exclusively in Amami Islands. Shochu is most often distilled nationwide using ingredients such as rice or sweet potato. However, at the Shochu Distillery in Amami, their Kokuto Shochu is uniquely made from brown sugar. You will experience the state-of-the-art distillation process that goes into the creation of its one of a kind Shochu that is rich in flavor and aroma. To conclude the distillery factory tour, you will have an opportunity to taste the different types of Shochu.

Please note: Bring local currency. sunscreen, a hat, a towel, and a light jacket and wear comfortable shoes and clothes that are easy to walk in. This tour includes approximately 3 hours of moderate walking and standing. The order of the sites viewed or visited may vary. 

This unique tour not only gives you the opportunity to observe and learn the secrets of the art of Bingata, a multicolored dyeing process used for silk and vegetable fibers, but also allows you to actively participate in making your own creation. Depart the pier by coach for a short drive to Tembusu Naha, where you will have the opportunity to learn about the history of the art of Bingata, originally produced solely for Okinawa's warrior class since the 15th century. Bingata-dyed fabric has been produced in the Ryukyu Islands for centuries, but is believed that the multi-colored dyeing process was originally introduced from southern China. Discover the secrets of this ancient art as you create your very own piece of Ryukyu Bingata, with a complex pattern of alternating light and dark dyes. At the end of this interactive class, you will be able to take home with you your piece of traditional Bingata as a souvenir of your visit.  Rejoining your coach, you will travel towards the Shurijyo Castle. This vermilion-colored castle was the seat of power during the 500-year reign of the Ryukyu Kindgom. Destroyed in World War II, the Castle was rebuilt in 1992 and is surrounded by beautiful gates that lead to Seiden or Main Hall. Following your visit at the Castle, you will be transferred back to the pier.

Please note: This tour includes approximately 1.5 hours of walking that is considered strenuous at times and there are uneven surfaces and a significant number of steep steps to negotiate. The tour is not available to wheelchair guests and it is not considered suitable for those with mobility concerns. The Bingata dyeing process will leave permanent stains on clothing so casual clothing that you will not mind getting permanently stained is recommended, along with sturdy yet comfortable walking shoes. Shoes must be removed during the visit to the South Hall (Nanden) and main hall of Shurijo Castle. While photography is permitted on the grounds of Shurijo Castle, none is permitted inside. The Shrijo Castle has restoration work being done and some areas may not be accessible. We suggest that you bring local currency for any purchases at the sites. The order of the sites viewed or visit may vary.

You will travel towards the Shuri Castle. This vermilion-colored castle was the seat of power during the 500-year reign of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Destroyed in World War II, the Castle was rebuilt in 1992 and is surrounded by beautiful gates that lead to Seiden or Main Hall.  Following your visit at the Castle, you will be transferred to the local shop where you can have a special coral dyeing experience. There are different shapes of coral's fossil and you will make your own souvenirs with your favorite coral's fossils and colors.

Please note: This tour includes approximately 1.5 hours of walking that is considered strenuous at times and there are uneven surfaces and a significant number of steep steps to negotiate. The tour is not available to wheelchair guests and it is not considered suitable for those with mobility concerns. The coral dyeing process will leave permanent stains on clothing so casual clothing that you will not mind getting permanently stained is recommended, along with sturdy yet comfortable walking shoes. Shoes must be removed during the visit to the South Hall (Nanden) and main hall of Shuri Castle. While photography is permitted on the grounds of Shuri Castle, none is permitted inside. The Shuri Castle has restoration work being done and some areas may not be accessible. Bring local currency for any purchases at the sites. The order of the sites viewed or visit may vary.

Unlike other parts of Japan, Okinawa has its own separate history, having been the independent kingdom of Ryukyu during the 15th century. On this half-day excursion, you will explore the city of Naha, the capital and largest city of Okinawa Prefecture, and former capital of the Ryukyu kings. Leaving the port, you will drive to Shuri Castle, the administrative center and residence of the Ryukyu royal family for over 400 years, until Okinawa became a Japanese prefecture in 1879. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the castle rests on a hill providing outstanding views of Naha and the sea. You will see the lavishly decorated Seiden (Main Hall), and the ornate Shurei Gate. Known as the Gate of Courtesy, it typifies Okinawan architecture and serves as a symbol of modern day Okinawa.  After the castle, you will be escorted to Shikina en Garden, which is known as one of the best Japanese Style Gardens in Okinawa. 

Please note: This tour includes approximately 2.5 hours of walking that is considered strenuous at times and there are uneven surfaces and a significant number of steep steps to negotiate. The tour is not available to wheelchair guests and it is not considered suitable for those with mobility concerns. Shoes must be removed during the visit to the south hall (Nanden) and the main hall of Shurijo Castle. While photography is permitted on the grounds of Shurijo Castle, none is permitted inside. The Shurijo Castle has restoration work being done and some areas may not be accessible. Bring local currency for any purchases at the sites, sunscreen and a hat. The order of the sites viewed or visited may vary.