Timeless Japan

DAYS 1-2: WELCOME TO TIMELESS JAPAN!
After an overnight flight, arrive in Tokyo and transfer to your hotel in Asakusa, one of the city’s oldest and most atmospheric neighborhoods. This evening, gather for a welcome dinner and your first introduction to Japan. D

DAY 3: EXPLORING TOKYO
Spend the day discovering the many sides of Tokyo as you step back in time in the Asakusa neighborhood. View the lanterns of Senso-ji, browse the lively stalls of Nakamise Street, and enjoy seasonal cherry blossoms along Sumida Park. Continue to the historic grounds of the Tokyo Imperial Palace to enjoy its Double Bridge and cherry blossom-lined paths. After a visit to Meiji Shrine, return to our hotel and enjoy an evening to explore Asakusa, where glowing lights, traditional streets, temples, and local markets with countless dining options have welcomed visitors for centuries. B, L

DAY 4: KYOTO
Journey by bullet train to Kyoto, renowned as the nation’s cultural and historical heart. Visit Kinkaku-ji, a 14th-century temple and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Also known as the “Golden Pavilion,” this temple is covered in gold leaf and reflects on the adjacent lake. Next, wander the historic streets of Gion, Kyoto’s legendary geisha district, on a guided tour. Here, we’ll enjoy a private geisha performance accompanied by a special lunch. Continue to the hillside terraces of Kiyomizu-dera, a temple where sweeping views stretch across the rooftops of Kyoto. Later, relax aboard the high-speed Shinkansen train for your return to Tokyo. B, L, D

DAY 5: TOKYO/MS WESTERDAM
Start your morning at the iconic Tokyo Skytree, one of the tallest towers in the world. Rising 2,080 feet above the city, the tower offers breathtaking panoramic views stretching across Tokyo and, on clear days, even as far as Mount Fuji. Enjoy a group lunch before boarding our home for the remainder of the tour, Holland America’s MS Westerdam. After settling in on the ship, your adventure will be up to you as you consider optional excursions to book. B, L, D

DAY 6: DAY AT SEA
Enjoy a relaxing day at sea. Attend cultural lectures, savor world-class cuisine, or unwind on deck as we sail along Japan’s scenic coastline. B, L, D

DAY 7: OSAKA
Visit a city that is vibrant, welcoming, and bursting with energy: Osaka, often called “Japan’s Kitchen” for its bold flavors and legendary food scene. Stroll through the neon-lit Dotonbori district, where street food stalls line the canal. Choose to step back in time at Osaka Castle, a striking symbol of the city’s samurai past, or venture out to explore serene temples that offer a peaceful contrast to the city’s lively streets. B, L, D

DAY 8: KOCHI
Discover the coastal city of Kochi, where tradition and seaside landscapes blend effortlessly. This city offers many options to discover, such as a visit to the 17th-century Kochi Castle. As one of Japan’s few original castles, wooden interiors and panoramic views bring the samurai era to life. Wander through lively markets filled with regional specialties. Along the shores of Katsurahama Beach, take in sweeping ocean views that feel worlds away from Japan’s larger cities. B, L, D

DAY 9: HIROSHIMA
Located in the southwest of Japan, Hiroshima is set within a striking natural landscape of mountains, sea, and rivers. Hiroshima offers a powerful experience at the Peace Memorial Park, and the Atomic Bomb Dome remains a solemn reminder of history. In addition to the memorials to the events of World War II, you have the option to visit an array of shrines and temples, as well as the city’s reconstructed castle, which was originally founded in the 16th century. Explore the historic Shukkei-en Garden, commissioned in 1620, or travel to the island of Miyajima, where one of Japan’s most iconic sights, the floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine, rises from the sea. B, L, D

DAY 10: KANMON STRAIT
Today, we will cruise the Kanmon Strait, a narrow waterway that separates the islands of Honshu and Kyushu. Sail past local fishing boats, the impressive Kanmon Bridge stretching overhead, and coastal cities that have connected trade, culture, and travelers for centuries. Enjoy a relaxing day aboard the MS Westerdam as you gain a unique perspective of Japan from the water. B, L, D

DAY 11: BUSAN, SOUTH KOREA
Visit Busan, South Korea’s vibrant coastal gem. Options include strolling along Haeundae Beach or exploring the bustling Jagalchi Fish Market, alive with the sights and smells of fresh seafood. You may also wander through Gamcheon Culture Village, where colorful houses cascade down the hillside, or find quiet reflection at the serene Beomeosa Temple. B, L, D

DAY 12: SAKAIMINATO
Arrive in Sakaiminato, a charming coastal town known for its maritime heritage and playful connection to Japanese folklore. Browse small shops filled with local seafood and regional specialties, or enjoy views of fishing boats and the Sea of Japan from the harbor. Book an excursion to visit the Adachi Museum of Art in Yasugi, one of the finest modern gardens in Japan and a collection of pottery, wood carvings, and paintings dating from 1912 to present day. B, L, D

DAY 13: TSURUGA
This morning, we’ll arrive in Tsuruga, a historic port town along the Sea of Japan that has long served as a gateway for trade and cultural exchange. Stroll along the scenic waterfront or visit the peaceful Kehi Shrine, known for its impressive vermilion torii gate and centuries-old traditions. Along the way, discover local markets and small shops while enjoying views of the surrounding mountains and coastline that make this area of Japan so picturesque. B, L, D

DAY 14: TOYAMA
Toyama is a coastal city set between the spring-fed waters of Toyama Bay and the dramatic peaks of the Japanese Alps. Shore excursions offer the opportunity to journey to the countryside, where you can witness ancient villages, thatched-roof farmhouses, and the incredible snow corridor. Take the railway up to Mount Tateyama, the highest mountain in the range, or explore the grounds of Toyama Castle, once home to feudal lords of the region. Along the waterfront, you may enjoy views of fishing boats returning with the bay’s famous seafood, long prized for its freshness and flavor. B, L, D

DAY 15: SAKATA
Uncover the historic port city of Sakata, once prosperous from the rice trade during the Edo period. You may choose to discover the beautifully preserved Sankyo Soko Rice Storehouses, where traditional wooden buildings reflect the city’s merchant heritage. Or visit the elegant Honma Museum of Art, set within tranquil gardens overlooking the harbor. Often nicknamed the “Fruit Kingdom” due to the growing conditions, you may enjoy a visit to the market to sample ruby red cherries and mouthwatering French pears. B, L, D

DAY 16: AOMORI
Explore Aomori, a lively port city at the northern tip of Honshu known for its rich traditions and scenic coastal setting. Choose to travel to the vibrant Nebuta-no-Ie Warasse Museum, where colorful floats celebrate the famous Aomori Nebuta Festival. You may also wonder at the Showa Daibutsu, known as the Big Buddha; a 70-foot-tall, 220-ton landmark that stands on Kuwabara Hill as the city’s symbol of wisdom, kindness, and inner power. Stroll along the harbor and browse the bustling Aomori Gyosai Center. B, L, D

DAY 17: HAKODATE
Hakodate, one of Japan’s most scenic harbor cities, is known for its unique blend of Japanese and Western influences. Choose to stroll through historic Motomachi, where churches and former consulates reflect the city’s early days as an international port. For sweeping views, travel up Mount Hakodate, where the sparkling harbor and city lights create one of Japan’s most memorable panoramic viewpoints. B, L, D

DAY 18: DAY AT SEA
Enjoy a relaxing day at sea. B, L, D

DAY 19: TOKYO/TRAVEL HOME
This morning, arrive back in Tokyo, where we’ll transfer to the airport for our return flight home. Depart Japan with new experiences and fond memories. B

Depart:
March 24, 2027
Return:
April 11, 2027

Quality Accommodations:
Nights 2-4: Prostyle Ryokan Asakusa, Tokyo
Nights 5-18: MS Westerdam

Arrival Time
Available approximately 90 days prior to departure.

Departure Time
Available approximately 90 days prior to departure.

Airport Transportation / Vehicle Parking
Complimentary airport shuttle service is included with all pre- and post-tour hotel stays.

Guests booking a pre-or post-night may also take advantage of complimentary parking for the duration of the tour. Please notify us in advance if you plan to use this service.

Walking Distance
To fully enjoy this journey, a good level of mobility is required. This tour includes extended periods of walking, often on uneven terrain, stairs, and in areas where motorcoach access is limited.

Guests should be comfortable walking at a steady pace for up to one mile at a time, with a total of three to four miles throughout the day. You should also be able to board and exit the motorcoach multiple times daily without assistance.

In addition, many airports in both the United States and Asia require significant walking between terminals and gates.

Due to the nature of the destinations we visit, including historic districts and off-the-beaten-path locations, this tour is not suitable for walkers or wheelchairs.

Average Temps
High of 68°F, low of 41°F

Currency

Japanese Yen

Time Zones
GMT +9

Hotel Amenities
During the land portion of the tour, hotels feature Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and in-room amenities such as a hair dryer. Properties also offer on-site dining, lounge spaces, and additional services such as currency exchange.

Onboard the MS Westerdam, guests have access to an exercise facility, spa services, swimming pool, and a variety of dining venues. Laundry services are available for an additional fee.

Additional Information
You will receive a series of three mailings to help you prepare for your journey, beginning shortly after your reservation is confirmed.

A valid U.S. passport is required for travel.

Japan operates on 100V electricity with Type A outlets. Most North American two-prong devices will function without a converter. A simple adapter is recommended for three-prong plugs.

Dress throughout the land portion of the tour is casual. Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and layered clothing are recommended due to varying temperatures.

For your cruise, “country club” casual attire is recommended for most evenings. Select evenings may include optional formal dining experiences. For these, men may wish to bring a dress shirt and jacket, and women a dress, skirt and blouse, or pantsuit. Casual dining options are always available.

Optional shore excursions may be reserved directly through Holland America. Once your booking is confirmed, please contact our office to obtain your booking number and begin planning your onboard experiences.

Travel Protection
Travel protection is available. Please visit CountryTravelDiscoveries.com/TravelProtectionPlan for details.