DAY 1- Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo is one of the world’s most fascinating cities, blending ancient traditions with cutting-edge modern life. The vibrant Ginza, a global shopping hub, sits close to the peaceful Imperial Palace. Here, the fast pace of modern living is balanced by the elegance and calm of traditional culture, creating an unforgettable and truly unique experience for visitors.
DAY 2- Nagoya, Japan
Perched on Honshu’s central coast, Nagoya is the fourth largest urban center in Japan. It is also a perfect illustration of the Japanese national story. Japan’s colorful history and love for tradition are embodied in the mighty donjons of Nagoya Castle, built by the first Tokugawa shogun. Two celebrated shrines – one Shinto, the other Buddhist – are found in the city center. Yet Nagoya also embodies Japan’s love of modernity and its thirst for technological innovation.
DAY 3- Osaka (for Kyoto), Japan
For centuries, Osaka was Japan’s cultural and commercial gateway to Asia – the point of entry both for trade goods and, most importantly, cultural influences that shaped Japanese society. Modern Osaka is home to monuments from Japan’s past including Toyotomi’s immense castle and the Sumiyoshi Shrine. The city is also your gateway to Kyoto, Japan’s ancient imperial capital and the nation’s cultural and spiritual center.
DAY 4- Kochi, Japan
Kochi sits on the broad alluvial plain facing Urado Bay. This city in Shikoku takes its name from the great feudal castle that sits at its very heart. Kochi is one of the wettest places in Japan – and a frequent target for cyclonic storms or typhoons. Southeast of the city, warm oceans currents washing against the Aki Mountains create a subtropical landscape of hibiscus, palm and ficus at Muroto-Anan Quasi-National Park.
DAY 5- Hiroshima, Japan
Today, Hiroshima stands as a powerful symbol not only of the destructive forces created by humanity but also of the resilience and determination to rebuild and move forward. At the heart of the city lies Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, home to the iconic Atomic Bomb Dome. The preserved ruins of the former Industry Promotion Hall, with its skeletal dome structure left standing after the blast, serve as a striking and enduring reminder of the city’s past.
Travelers to Hiroshima will discover a more serene note at nearby Miyajima Island. One of the top-three scenic spots of Japan, the island is home to ancient Itsukushima Shrine, a designated National Treasure.
DAY 6- Kanmon Straits, Japan
DAY 7- Busan, South Korea
Busan, the country’s second-largest city, is a vibrant gateway to South Korea, where modern skyscrapers stand ancient Buddhist temples. The lively business districts contrast with peaceful spots like Yongdusan Park, capturing the blend of old and new that defines the nation’s culture.
Busan also played a significant role in the Korean War. Today, the United Nations Memorial Cemetery honours soldiers from 16 nations who lost their lives during the conflict.
DAY 8- Nagasaki, Japan
Today, Nagasaki attracts visitors from around the world to its Nagasaki Peace Park and Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum.
Yet this scenic city on Kyushu has much more to offer. Often compared to San Francisco, it is set among lush hills overlooking a deep natural harbour. For centuries, Nagasaki served as Japan’s main gateway to the outside world and is also known as the setting for “Madame Butterfly” by Giacomo Puccini.
DAY 9- At Sea
DAY 10- Shimizu, Japan
A captivating mix of natural beauty and rich heritage, Shimizu invites exploration with its blend of modern energy and ancient shrines. Overlooking the region is the iconic Mount Fuji, Japan’s most sacred peak towering at over 12,000 ft above sea level and a UNESCO-recognised source of artistic inspiration, results in an unforgettable highlight of any visit.
DAY 11- Tokyo, Japan
DAY 12-Toba, Japan
Toba which is located at the northeastern tip of the Shima Peninsula, prospered as a castle town under the rule of the Kuki family from the 16th century. It also served as a key landing point for travellers that are en route to the sacred Ise Grand Shrine and today forms part of Ise-Shima National Park.
DAY 13-Kanmon Straits, Japan
DAY 14- Jeju, South Korea
Lying off the southern coast of South Korea, Jeju-do is the country’s warmest and wettest region. The island is especially beautiful in spring, when canola flowers bloom in vibrant yellow and the landscape turns lush green. Each season brings its own charm—from the aqua-blue seas and golden beaches of summer to the rich browns and oranges of autumn—creating a constantly changing and colourful natural setting.
DAY 15- Nagasaki, Japan
DAY 16- At Sea
DAY 17- Tokyo
Unfortunately, this is where your once in a lifetime cruise of Japan will end. From here you will make your journey home back to Dublin
