Japan by Land & Sea - A - March 2026

Fly overnight to the fast-paced city of Osaka. On arrival you will transfer to Kyoto, a city imbued with old world Japan. The rest of the day is yours to relax or begin exploring.

Japan's capital for over 1,000 years, Kyoto is a treasure trove of history and timeless culture. Your explorations will include Kyoto's landmark sites - beautiful Kinkaku-ji also known as the Golden Pavilion, Kiyomizu temple, the Zen Garden of Ryoan-ji, the pathways of vermilion red torii gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine, the gardens of Tenryu-ji, Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and Tagetsukyo Bridge. Enjoy a traditional Sukiyaki (hotpot) lunch and authentic sake tasting.

Board a shinkansen (bullet train) bound for Nagano. On arrival, visit the 7th-century Zenko-ji before enjoying lunch at a local restaurant. Then, travel to Jigokudani Monkey Park, walking through the forest to reach the hot spring pool where a troop of Japanese macaques, or 'snow monkeys', often bathe in the warm waters. Afterwards, head to your ryokan accommodation, where you can try out the Japanese tradition of onsen – hot spring baths – and experience a more traditional side of Japanese life and dine a kaiseki dinner.

Today, you'll travel to the foot of the iconic Mount Fuji! Your first stop will be Oishi Park, for spectacular views of Fuji over Lake Kawaguchi (weather dependent). In the afternoon, arrive in Hakone and board a mini cruise on Lake Ashi, then fly up to the heights of Mount Komagatake by cable car for more unforgettable views of the lake and Fuji. Continue to Tokyo.

Tokyo may seem a thoroughly modern cityscape at first glance but look beyond the soaring towers and neon signs and you'll find deeply rooted tradition and peaceful pockets of the past. Start at vibrant Senso-ji, the city's oldest temple before ascending Tokyo Skytree for magical views. Enjoy a sushi making masterclass before dining on your creations for lunch. Make a photo stop at the world-famous Shibuya Crossing then explore Meiji Jingu Shrine.

After breakfast transfer to Tokyo's cruise terminal to board your cruise. The rest of the day is free to explore the ship's facilities and settle in. Throughout your cruise, when your ship comes into port, there will be a range of excursions available to help you explore each destination. These excursions are at your own expense and are bookable on your cruise reservation.

Spend the day ported in Tokyo, the perfect opportunity to explore the amenities of your ship.

Make the most of your cruise ship facilities today – you could relax by the pool, try out the restaurants and bars, and enjoy the range of activities and shows.

Today you can visit the historic city of Hakodate, famous for its star-shaped fort. Soar up to the observation deck by gondola or wander the streets to browse the market or taste a kaisen-don, a seafood rice bowl.

Arrive at the characterful city of Sakata, a major port during the Edo Period. A place full of tradition and plenty to see, pop by the beautifully preserved merchant houses or visit the Somaro Teahouse.

Port at Toyama to enjoy spectacular alpine views, and taste some of the city's abundant and absolutely delicious seafood. There's plenty of rich, cultural heritage to discover too.

A major player in Japan's maritime history, the coastal city of Maizuru is today's stop. Surrounded by lush bays and undulating mountains, try the fresh local crab or consider exploring the scenic Tango Peninsula

Port at Sakaiminato. This small fishing town is the birthplace of anime legend Shigeru Mizuki, so is a pilgrimage site for manga lovers, as well as being surrounded by spectacular nature.

Arrive in South Korea! Port in the bustling Busan, a city that boasts mountains, beaches, and hot springs and is full of small-town charm.

Head back to Japan, porting at Nagasaki. Nagasaki is best known for the events of the 9th of August 1945 but there is so much more to it. Backed by rolling hills and forested islands, with unspoilt beaches, European-style architecture, and ancient roots, it is a delight to explore.

On the north coast of the island of Fukuoka, Kitakyushu is the gateway to plentiful natural beauty, historic sights, and some wonderful local food

Arrive at Hiroshima. Best known as the first city in the world to feel the power of the atomic bomb in 1945, Hiroshima has emerged from the ashes as a cosmopolitan and peaceful place. Visit the tranquil Peace Park to reflect on the past.

Stop at Takamatsu, a city best known for Ritsurin, one of Japan's finest formal gardens, designed for feudal lords in 1745. Takamatsu also gives access to art destinations like Naoshima Island.

Spend the day ported in Kobe. You can spend your final day aboard the cruise ship exploring Kobe, a city famous for its flavourful beef, or fill the day with all of your favourite activities onboard.

Disembark the Azamara Pursuit, where you will be met and transferred to your hotel in Osaka.

Fly to Australia, arriving home the same or following day.