Aboard the Diamond Princess
Active pace with longer touring days. Expect intermittent walking at a moderate pace for 2–3 hours over a variety of terrain, including cobblestones, hills and uneven pavements. Must be able to negotiate stairs of varying heights, sometimes without handrails. Can tolerate periods of standing during guided tours and be able to climb in/out of various modes of transportation. Some days may include 5–7 km of walking over the course of the day.
Hop on your flight to Japan and begin your journey through the Land of the Rising Sun.
Upon arrival in Tokyo, you’ll be warmly greeted and transferred to your centrally located hotel. This evening, enjoy a Welcome Dinner at a local restaurant and meet your fellow travellers
Today we explore Japan’s energetic capital. Highlights include a peaceful stroll through the Imperial Palace East Garden, followed by a hands-on sushi-making class with a local chef. Continue to Asakusa Kannon Temple, Tokyo’s oldest, and shop along historic Nakamise Street. Then ascend the Tokyo Skytree, the tallest tower in Japan, for sweeping city views. We’ll also pass through the chic Ginza district before returning to our hotel.
This morning, visit the Meiji Shrine, a serene Shinto sanctuary nestled in a forested park, followed by the famed Shibuya Crossing, the world’s busiest pedestrian intersection. Later, we transfer to the port of Yokohama to board the Diamond Princess, your floating resort for the cruise portion of this unforgettable journey.
A relaxing day at sea to settle in and enjoy the ship’s many amenities as we sail north along Japan’s coastline.
At the northern tip of Honshu, Aomori is famed for its apple orchards and vibrant autumn foliage. Don’t miss the unique architecture of the Nebuta Warasse Museum, dedicated to the region’s famous summer festival.
A charming coastal town known for its samurai heritage and sake breweries. Explore historic merchant houses and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Hiyoriyama Park, especially striking during fall colours.
Step back in time in Kanazawa, home to one of Japan’s top three landscape gardens, Kenroku-en. The well-preserved samurai and geisha districts make this city a cultural treasure.
Gateway to the scenic Matsue Castle and Izumo Shrine, this port offers insights into ancient Japan and is also known for its connection to manga artist Shigeru Mizuki.
Our one stop in South Korea, Busan is a dynamic port city known for its vibrant markets, such as Jagalchi Fish Market, and seaside temples like the stunning Haedong Yonggungsa.
A city of resilience and peace, Nagasaki offers a poignant visit to the Atomic Bomb Museum and Peace Park, alongside serene temples and European-influenced architecture.
Located at the foot of Sakurajima Volcano, this southern city boasts lush gardens like Sengan-en, and spectacular views of the volcanic landscape, especially vibrant with fall foliage.
Famed for its dramatic hot springs or “hells”, Beppu is a geothermal wonderland. Enjoy the scenery and perhaps dip your feet in a relaxing onsen (hot spring bath).
A relaxed coastal town with samurai roots, Kochi features the impressive Kochi Castle and the bustling Hirome Market, perfect for sampling local flavours.
From Osaka, take an optional excursion to Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan. Visit magnificent temples like Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) or stroll through the atmospheric Gion district, home of the geisha.
Enjoy a final full day aboard the Diamond Princess. Take part in cultural programs, enjoy the onboard spa, or simply relax and take in the sea views.
Weather permitting, enjoy breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji, Japan’s most iconic peak. Visit Miho no Matsubara, a scenic pine grove with Mt. Fuji as a majestic backdrop.
After breakfast, disembark and return to Tokyo. Enjoy a free afternoon to relax or explore the city at your leisure. Tonight, we gather for a Farewell Dinner to celebrate our journey.
Enjoy a morning at leisure before your transfer to the airport and return flight to Canada, filled with memories of Japan’s beauty, culture, and warmth
You may cancel your tour up to 60 days prior to departure (90 days prior for tours requiring a visa, cruises or rail journeys) for any reason, and receive a full refund of your deposit / payment (less the $75 administration fee).
Cancellation & trip interruption insurance included!
Included in the cost of your tour is our Cancellation Insurance Policy, which provides coverage in case of emergency injury or illness (including Covid), right up to your date of departure (terms and conditions apply).
Our Manulife Out-of-Country Health Insurance Plan covers expenses related to Trip Interruption in case of emergency injury or illness. For tours within Canada, Senior Discovery Tours will cover such expenses (terms and conditions apply to all policies).
