Oceania Cruises
A place where ancient traditions fuse with modern life, embark on this unforgettable through timeless Japan onboard Oceania Nautica. Unveiling iconic sights and thought-provoking landmarks, uncover the rich tapestry of Japan’s heritage, history and natural beauty, all whilst indulging in unparalleled luxury onboard your elegant Oceania ship.
Depart from Tokyo’s futuristic skyline, where pockets of centuries-old customs remain treasured amid city life. This remarkable voyage reveals every side of Japan, from its bustling cities to the tranquillity of its hillside towns, offering a complete cultural immersion for those eager to experience this captivating and coveted destination. Serene temples and historic palaces lie waiting to be discovered, neon-lit city streetscapes and futuristic attractions captivate wide-eyed visitors, and cherry blossoms bloom throughout where this idyllic paradise becomes a reality, and more.
Sleek and charming, Oceania Nautica blends sophistication with a contemporary flair to curate an elegant ambience that embodies the most treasured elements of a luxurious cruise. Onboard, step into your most lavish imagination and experience faraway places that you have only ever dreamt of. A sanctuary at sea, cultivating an atmosphere as tranquil as the landscapes she sails through, Oceania Nautica offers the opportunity to indulge in a variety of exclusive spa experiences or beauty treatments. Escape to this private retreat to relax and unwind after the explorations of the day.
Day 1
Joining together past and future, Tokyo dazzles with its mix of timeless history and space-age technology, of strict tradition and avant garde fashion, of bewildering crowds and moments of utter serenity. Visit Asakusa for the bright lights, street fairs, and Senso-ji Temple; Tsukiji for the largest open-air fish market in the world with on-demand sushi; and the Imperial Palace’s East Garden for some calm amongst the chaos of the city centre.
Day 2
A centre of modern commerce, though large areas of the ancient city were destroyed during the War, Nagoya’s streets are still steeped with history. Visit the Shogun castle which marks the centre of town and golden orca statues are dotted around as symbols of the city. Founded more than 1900 years ago, Atsuta-jingū is one of Japan’s most sacred Shintō shrines. Sprawling across a large area of forest, flanked by towering cypress trees, it’s a peaceful place to stroll, observing worshippers going about their business.
Day 3
Visit the breathtaking temples and shrines of Japan's old imperial capital, Kyoto. Explore ancient Nara, the cradle of Japanese arts, literature and crafts, with its magnificent shrines and temples that predate even Kyoto's. Stroll through Nara Park, famed for its deer and impressive Kasuga Grand Shrine. Then travel on to Osaka and its famed castle, offering a lesson in Japanese history and culture. In Kobe, visit historic Himeji Castle, a huge edifice built entirely of wood and tile.
Day 4
Whilst not a typical Japanese city, being small and compact, Kochi has gained a well-deserved reputation for its exuberant and easy-going spirit and vibrant food scene. The well-preserved hilltop castle has stood for over 400 years, the views from the top floor of the keep, with intricate details of the roofs that fan out below, are not to be missed. Wander the serene grounds of 1300-year-old Chikurinji Temple, appreciating views of maple trees which frame its impressive vermillion pagoda and explore its moss-covered paths.
Day 5
After a few days of city streets, take some respite in Kagoshima’s more natural connections. Visit the exquisite Iso-Teien Garden and its villa and enjoy its gorgeous views before a short ferry ride to smoking Sakurajima for a close-up view of the volcano and its lava fields. Or journey into the countryside to Chiran and its well-preserved streets lined with samurai homes. Take a breath in the beautiful landscape of Lake Ikeda and the stunning vistas of the Satsuma Peninsula.
Day 6
Despite its synonymity with the dropping of the atomic bomb, paradoxically, Nagasaki is a vibrant and charming city begging to be explored far beyond the bomb museums, monuments, and memorials. Travel to Arita, home of magnificent ceramics which continues a 400-year-old tradition. Experience feudal Japan and the natural wonders of Shimabara Peninsula with its volcanoes and hot springs. Upon the memorials of the atomic bomb, vibrant festivals and picturesque landscapes emerge, making Nagasaki a city of contrasts and leave you with a lasting impression.
Day 7
A quick jump over the sea means a visit to South Korea’s home of majestic mountains, glistening beaches, and fantastic seafood. As rugged mountains slice through the urban landscape, Busan is one of the great unheralded cities in Asia, a rollicking port town with something for all tastes.
Day 8
Returning to Japan with a visit to one of its most diverse cities. Without the hustle of larger cities, Fukuoka has curated a different, lower-key kind of allure. Walkable streets are filled with a mix of immersive attractions and dining culture that ties the entire city together. Ancient temples are complimented by beautiful beaches; notable art galleries showcase the unique cultural presence of the region and famous open-air food stalls serve some of the most renowned food in Japan. Fukuoka has something interesting for every traveller.
Day 9
Discover Hiroshima, a symbol of resistance and rebirth. The City of Peace with a rich historic past that extends beyond the 1945 events and possessing a vibrant city life, wonderful local cuisine, as well as gorgeous surroundings, being set in the immaculate waters of Hiroshima Bay. The Shukkei-en Garden is the epitome of a Japanese Garden; an escape from the city, a charming place to walk around or relax and lose track of time for a few hours. Journey to the exquisite sacred island of Miyajima to see the extraordinary Itsukushima Shrine – very few scenes are as heavily associated with Japan as the torii gate at Itsukushima Shrine.
At Sea
Whilst sailing through Japan's intricate coastlines, spend the day enjoying the many amenities of your ultimate-luxury boutique hotel at sea. Indulge in a treatment at the spa, keep active at the fitness centre, or unwind on the sun-soaked pool deck, or even take a swing on the card tables. Later, tantalise your tastebuds in one of the exquisite restaurants before taking a seat for sophisticated evening entertainment. Once returned to your luxury cabin, unwind and end the day with a truly enviable tan!
Day 11
Behold the dazzling lights as you cruise back into Tokyo, concluding your epic voyage around Japan. Explore all the remaining sights and sounds (or just relax in a serene temple and reflect on the unforgettable memories) before returning home to the UK.