Be enchanted by the stunning beauty and fascinating culture of Japan
Japan is a land of true contrast; rich with centuries-oldtradition, the country has ancient, ornate temples and picturesqueold towns standing alongside the dazzling lights and technicalinnovation of ultra-modern cities, like Tokyo and Osaka.
Japan's unique blend of ancient and modern is one of the maindraws for visitors, who love to explore the modernity of Japanesecity life while also experiencing countless natural wonders andlearning about the country's rich history.
It's a remarkably diverse country just waiting to be discovered,where you can disconnect from the high-tech cities with days spentin serene nature, discovering ancient rituals, shrines andsprings.
Japan is an island nation, made up of four main islands ofHokkaido, Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu, as well as many thousands ofsmaller islands. One of the best ways to explore these isles is ona cruise, where you can marvel at the country's diverse coastlineand soak in amazing views as you travel.
Just in case you need any further persuasion, here are our topfive reasons to visit Japan.
Cherry Blossom
Although Japan is beautiful at any time of year, there isperhaps no better time to visit than during Cherry Blossom season,when the already exquisite landscapes and pretty city streets arefurther enhanced by papery pink blossoms otherwise known asSakura.
This stunning pink explosion is just as captivating to Japaneseresidents as it is to visitors. The ritual of Hanami - or 'flowerviewing' - is an important part of Japanese culture during thespring, when people gather to enjoy each other's company and toappreciate the transient beauty of the spring blossoms. It can beas simple as a stroll in the park, but more often involves picnicswith loved ones under the dazzling pinks of the trees overhead.
On our cruise of Japan in 2025, you'll besailing at the peak of cherry blossom seasons, so you'll haveplenty of opportunity to partake in the ritual of Hanamiyourself.
Japanese cuisine
Sushi, ramen, tempura…many Japanese dishes are known and lovedall over the world, but a trip to Japan offers a chance to tastethe most authentic versions of foods you might have tried before,and to discover local dishes that you might never have heardof.
On our cruise there'll be chances to delve into the localdelicacies of the places you visit, like Takoyaki in Osaka and therenowned seafood of Toyama. You can even discover Japanese food onyour days at sea on board MS Westerdam in pan-Asian restaurant,Tamarind, which has been praised by Condé Nast Traveler for food'that rivals the best restaurants on land'.
Hokkaido, Japan's wild west
Step off your ship on Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island, todiscover a vast haven of natural beauty with six national parkshome to volcanoes, hot springs, and a huge variety of wildlife.Hokkaido is also home to the Ainu, an indigenous population withtheir own distinct culture, history, and cuisine.
You'll spend a day in Hokkaido on our cruise next year, whereyou can visit the Onuma Quasi-National Park with its three tranquillakes, and see cornerstones of Ainu culture here, like thebeautiful attush robes, and taste the region's distinctcuisine.
Big city adventures
One of the reasons Japan is a perennially popular destination isthat it perfectly combines astonishing natural landscapes with thebright lights of its sprawling cities. You'll be wowed by thedazzling urban skylines of Tokyo, the world's largest city, withits sleek towering structures, top-class sushi restaurants, andhuge area of cultural activities, museums, and otherattractions.
On our 13-day tour discovering Japan's modern cities and ancient traditions.You'll travel on the famous high-speed train between Kyoto andTokyo and take part in a traditional tea ceremony in Kyoto. Marvelat the snowcapped Mount Fuji and discover Nara, Japan's firstcapital with its incredible bronze Buddha.
Beautiful natural landscapes
If you tire of the slightly chaotic energy of some of Japan'sbig cities, the good news is that you're never far from trulytranquil rural areas where you can relax and enjoy the beauty ofnature. Of course, the country's most famous and iconic naturalsight is the majestic, snow-capped peak of Mount Fuji. The mount isalso an active volcano and is one of Japan's Three Holy Mountains,along with Mount Haku and Mount Tate.
On this 13-day land tour of Japan departing October2024 and March 2025, you'll have the opportunity to traverse theJapanese Alps between Tokyo and Osaka. Discover local culture inShirakawago, Takayama, and Kanazawa - learning more about the partsof Japan that many visitors miss.
