Circle Japan with Nebuta Festival

Pricing based on departure date: 27 July 2025

Japan is a study in contrasts: tranquil retreats of profound beauty lay just outside cities where skyscrapers soar over stunning temples and shrines. Neon-bright architecture and pink cherry blossoms vie for attention amid the colourful Harajuku district and traditional kimonos.

ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS

Yokohama

Yokohama is easily accessible from Tokyo, but there's enough to see and do here that it's worth more than a day trip. Visit Minato Marai 21, a popular, modern neighborhood with great shopping and tons of restaurant options. TripAdvisor travelers also recommend stopping at Big Wharf (Osanbashi Pier), a uniquely shaped pier with spectacular views.

Kagoshima

Japans southernmost major city, Kagoshima delivers a memorable mix of unique cuisine, historical attractions and outdoor activities in its temperate weather. Take the short ferry ride from the port to Sakurajima Yogan Nagisa Park and immerse yourself in its natural grandeur ? take a rejuvenating soak in the 100-meter-long natural hot spring, and take in views of the areas most iconic landmark: Sakurajima volcano, nicknamed the Vesuvius of Japan. Then, take in sweeping bayside vistas at Sengan-en, the elegant estate of the Shimadzu samurai clan, and stroll through its cherry blossom-filled gardens. Cruise to Kagoshima and head to Yurigahama Beach, with its bright waters and mysterious sandbar that appears each month in a slightly different spot, depending on the tides.

Busan (Pusan)

Despite its status as Korea's second largest city, Pusan (or Busan) does not neglect the country's obsession with nature. The city's undulating hills result in an unusual mix of forested slopes, rugged beaches, lurching cliffs and hot springs. Pusan's seafood is legendary.

Akita

Akita is a large prefecture at the Sea of Japan coast in the northern Tohoku Region. Prefectural capital is Akita City. Among Akitas main attractions are its natural beauty of mountains and the sea, hot springs and the town of Kakunodate, which preserves one of Japans most interesting samurai districts.

Aomori

Aomori, a prefecture in the northern part of Japan's main island of Honshu, is known for natural landscapes including volcanic mountain ranges. Towada-Hachimantai National Park, near the southern border, has hot springs, autumn foliage in Oirase Gorge, skiing at Mount Hakkoda and lava domes around Lake Towada. Aomori, the capital, is a laid-back port that hosts the Nebuta summer festival.

Your Ship: Diamond Princess

A luxury destination in itself, anticipate the excitement of discovery on this jewel of the sea

Diamond Princess is a treasure trove of exceptional delights waiting to be discovered. Dine on freshly prepared sashimi in Kai Sushi, watch street performers in the dazzling Atrium, or take in a lavish production show in our state-of-the-art theater. And for a unique treat visit the Izumi Japanese Bath, the largest of its kind at sea.

Tokyo/Yokohama, At Sea, Kagoshima, Busan (Pusan), At Sea, Akita, Aomori, At Sea, Hitachinaka, Tokyo/ Yokohama