Japan Intensive
Dive deep into Japan, from feudal Samurai towns to tech-driven Tokyo, as you circumnavigate the country with stops at every major port. This voyage has eight maiden calls including less-traveled Hakodate, one of Japan’s first treaty ports in 1854, and Akita, which has been inhabited for thousands of years. Samurai fans will want to visit the ruins of Akita castle (from 733 AD) and Kubota Castle, where a defeated warrior once lived. Another noteworthy stop is the small fishing port of Sakaiminato, known for crab, Bluefin tuna and fertile farmlands. From here you can visit Honshu’s ancient shrines and Bronze Age burial mounds, but above all you’ll want to see Matsue Castle, one of Japan’s few remaining feudal castles.
Throughout this voyage you can join small-group experiences to learn about Japan’s culture and traditions. Become a mini-expert in Shinto shrines, Buddhist temples, Japanese architecture, bonsai, origami, geisha, or the etiquette of sushi. Of course you’ll dine like a king on incredible seafood, Kobe beef, ramen, shabu-shabu, tonkatsu and more. And you’ll be surrounded by gorgeous scenery too, from perfectly tended national forests and gardens to beautiful coastal bays and towering snow-capped peaks.
15 Nights from $8,999* pp
Bonus:
Save up to $7,220 total per stateroom+
US$100 Onbooard Credit per stateroom twin share^
Inclusions:
15 night Japan Intensive cruise onboard Azamara Quest Tokyo return in a Club Oceanview Stateroom
Main meals~ and entertainment onboard
Select alcoholic drinks onboard#
Bottled water, soft drinks, specialty coffee and teas
Self-service laundry
Port charges, government fees and onboard gratuities
Prices:
Club Oceanview from $8,999* pp
Club Veranda from $9,999* pp
Cruise departs 27 Apr 19
Valid until 31 Oct 18
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The world’s largest metropolitan area, Tokyo is an unforgettable experience for everyone. Tour the best ramen and sushi restaurants, visit Akihabara Electric Town to discover cutting-edge gadgets and games, and scale the Tokyo City View—a breathtaking observation deck on the 52nd floor of Mori Tower. For a change of pace, visit the Meiji Shrine to take a serene stroll along the many walking paths.
Spend the day sailing in style aboard your boutique hotel at sea. Indulge in a treatment at Sanctum Spa, stay ship shape with a class at our fitness center, or lounge the day away on our sunny pool deck.
In the evening, savor inspired Italian cuisine at Aqualina, or relish in a classic steakhouse experience at Prime C. Plus, you’ll find plenty of exciting evening entertainment, from thrilling shows at Cabaret Lounge to intimate performances in the Living Room.
Indulge your love of urban convenience and your desire for natural beauty in this city. From tastes to satisfy your cravings to hot springs and history, every spot and every season has something to offer.
ARRIVAL:8AM
DEPART:10PM
Sunny and refreshingly cool in the summer, lively and bustling during festival season and enjoyably sleepy in the way only the best seaside locations can be, this lovely city is worth a closer look.
ARRIVAL:8AM
DEPART:7PM
Bring your appetite to Akita. With its prime location adjacent to the Sea of Japan, seafood lovers will be in heaven. The region is famous for its rice production and the high quality sake brewed from it. Once you're full, take advantage of the city’s outdoor offerings by visiting the Shirakami -Sanchi Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or relax at the Nyuto Hot Springs.
ARRIVAL:8AM
DEPART:2PM
Translated literally, Kanazawa means “marsh of gold,” and the city produces approximately 98% of the gold leaf in Japan (so find a small jar to take home).Discover the 70 temples of Tera-machi, visit the D.T. Suzuki Museum, a peaceful homage to Zen Buddhism, explore the small bustling alleys of the colorful Omichi Market, and be sure to sample the region’s sake, known for its superior quality.
ARRIVAL:9AM
DEPART:6PM
Sakaiminato is the birthplace of Shigeru Mizuki, the creator of GeGeGe no Kitaro, the manga stories that birthed so many of Japan’s favorite comic characters. Take a walk down Shigeru Mizuki Road, a street lined with more than 150 statues of his characters. If you're a Manga fan, be sure to also visit the Shigeru Mizuki Memorial Museum to learn more about Mizuki and his creative characters.
ARRIVAL:8AM
DEPART:5:30PM
Ancient culture and modern life come together seemlessly in South Korea's second-largest city. Buddhist temples can be found in abundance, and each intricate structure is well-worth a visit. For fresh seafood, head to the fish market, where you can sample it raw—just the way locals love. For a true taste of Busan, head to the bustling Gujke Market.
ARRIVAL:9AM
DEPART:10PM
Kitakyushu is best seen from the seaside promenade at Moji Port, with its shops, restaurants, and more. Stop by the Moji Customs Building and tour the art gallery inside, or head to the top of the Mojiko Retro Observation Room for great views of the city. Up for an eclectic adventure? Visit the Toto Toilet Museum. And foodies, be sure to try popular noodle dishes like tonkatsu ramen and yaki-udon.
ARRIVAL:8AM
DEPART:8PM
While it’s impossible to forget that Hiroshima was the site of the first atomic blast on August 6, 1945, this modern city has emerged as a thriving and vibrant port. Even still, no visit would be complete without a trip to the Peace Memorial Park. Step further back in time to visit the castle of Hiroshima-Jo, and be sure to try the city’s most famous dish, okonomiyaki, a delicious savory pancake.
ARRIVAL:8AM
DEPART:6PM
Combine thousands of years of history with fantastic food and you have the vibrant city of Takamatsu, Japan. Explore Tamamo-koen Park to discover ruins, Japanese-style turrets, and more. Then visit a thatched-roof tea house to try matcha, a powdered green tea. Finally, be sure to sample Sanuki udon—a famous noodle dish—after enjoying an afternoon shopping and visiting the new waterfront.
ARRIVAL:5AM
DEPART:8PM
Famous for the beef that bears it name, Kobe is headquarters for many Japanese and international firms, and has long been an important port. It’s also a short bullet-train ride from Kyoto, capital of Japan from the 8th to the 19th century. Explore spectacular shrines and temples and shrines, palaces and castles of shoguns and emperors, and narrow lanes paved in stone and lined with wooden buildings.
ARRIVAL: 8AM
Famous for the beef that bears it name, Kobe is headquarters for many Japanese and international firms, and has long been an important port. It’s also a short bullet-train ride from Kyoto, capital of Japan from the 8th to the 19th century. Explore spectacular shrines and temples and shrines, palaces and castles of shoguns and emperors, and narrow lanes paved in stone and lined with wooden buildings.
DEPART:2PM
Mount Fuji, Japan’s tallest peak, overlooks this beautiful port town. Bustling with activity, the Port of Shimizu is full of commercial highlights you’ll want to experience. A stroll through Miho-no-Matsubara will leave you inspired. Home to more than 30,000 pine trees lining the seashore, it’s no surprise this scenic area has been the subject of many paintings and legends throughout Japanese history.
ARRIVAL:9AM
DEPART:6PM
The world’s largest metropolitan area, Tokyo is an unforgettable experience for everyone. Tour the best ramen and sushi restaurants, visit Akihabara Electric Town to discover cutting-edge gadgets and games, and scale the Tokyo City View—a breathtaking observation deck on the 52nd floor of Mori Tower. For a change of pace, visit the Meiji Shrine to take a serene stroll along the many walking paths.
ARRIVAL:8AM
