Timeless Japan

DAYS 1-2: WELCOME TO JAPAN!

After your overnight flight arrives in Tokyo, transfer to your hotel in Asakusa, one of Tokyo’s most historic neighborhoods. Gather tonight for a welcome dinner at the hotel. 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 your 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 14 th -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, enjoy a private geisha performance accompanied by a special CTD 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 NOORDAM

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 your home for the remainder of the tour, Holland America’s Noordam. After settling in on the ship, your adventure will be up to you as you consider optional excursions to book. Your CTD Tour Director will be available for consultation throughout your cruise. B, L, D

DAY 6: SHIMIZU

Discover Shimizu, widely regarded as one of Japan’s most beautiful ports. Enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, at the Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine. Wander the grounds of Sumpu Castle, explore a tea plantation, or dine at a local restaurant tasting the ports famed tuna haul. 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: DAY AT SEA

Enjoy a relaxing day at sea. Attend cultural lectures, savor world-class cuisine, or unwind on deck as you sail along Japan’s scenic coastline. 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 16 th 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, 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 Noordam 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: MAIZURU

This morning, arrive in Maizuru, offering a slower pace filled with rich naval history. Visit Maizuru Red Brick Park, where twelve beautifully restored red-brick warehouses, once part of the Imperial Japanese Navy, still stand. Journey to Ine no Funaya, a charming fishing village famous for its traditional wooden boathouses built on the water. Discover local markets and small shops, surrounding islands, and dramatic coastline in this historic port. B, L, D

DAY 14: KANAZAWA

Discover Kanazawa, Japan’s former center of samurai culture. Explore the Higashi Chaya District, where traditional wooden teahouses line picturesque streets, or stroll the renowned Kenrokuen Gardens. Learn about the artistry of Noh theater at the Kanazawa Noh Museum, or immerse yourself in hands- on experiences featuring gold leaf, Kutani porcelain, Kaga embroidery, and other time-honored local handicrafts. B, L, D

DAY 15: DAY AT SEA

B, L, D

DAY 16: 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 the 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 17: MIYAKO

Discover Miyako along Japan’s rugged Sanriku Coast, renowned for its dramatic landscapes and natural beauty. Shore excursions offer the chance to cruise the waters of Jodogahama Bay or venture to Ryusendo Cave, one of Japan’s largest limestone cave systems. Take in sweeping coastal vistas at Sanriku Fukko National Park, browse the local seafood market, or learn about traditional Nanbu ironware and regional sake. B, L, D

DAY 18: HITACHINAKA

Explore Hitachinaka, filled with beautiful gardens, historic shrines, and coastal scenery. Stroll Hitachi Seaside Park, renowned for its seasonal display of colorful flowers, or visit the sacred Oarai Isosaki Shrine perched above the Pacific Ocean. Choose to visit Kairakuen Garden, considered one of Japan’s Three Great Gardens, witness the towering Fukuroda Falls, or hear from a master sake brewer at the oldest brewery in Japan. B, L, D

DAY 19: TOKYO/TRAVEL HOME

This morning, arrive back in Tokyo, where you will transfer to the airport for your return flight home. Depart Japan with new experiences and fond memories. B

QUALITY ACCOMMODATIONS

Nights 2-4: Prostyle Ryokan Asakusa, Tokyo, Japan
Nights 5-18: MS Noordam

Dates:

Sep 22-Oct 10, 2027
Mar 22-Apr 9, 2028

Price Per Person:

See table below
Land only pricing available

Pricing Table:

Depart/Return:

The West Coast (call for other cities)

Inclusions:

Round-trip airfare from the U.S.
Professional, English speaking Tour Director
Welcome Dinner and meals as indicated (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner)
Fees and tips for included attractions and meals
Luggage handling at most hotels
24-hour emergency call service

Arrival Time

Available approximately 90 days prior to departure.

Departure Time

Available approximately 90 days prior to departure.

Airport Transportation / Vehicle Parking

Our pre- and post-tour hotel offers complimentary shuttle service to and from the airport. Vehicle parking during the tour is not included. If you need parking, please contact us in advance, and we will be happy to discuss available options.

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 Noordam, 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 Excursions are available for purchase on the Holland America website. Once you have made your booking with Country Travel Discoveries, contact our office to inquire about your Holland America Booking Number to begin adding excursions to your cruise itinerary.

Travel Protection

Yes, view Travel Protection Information.