2027 Japan with Mitsui Cruise

We depart Auckland this morning for our flight to Tokyo – the capital of Japan – a city of marvellous contrasts, its past and present meshing seamlessly. The major gateway into Japan, Tokyo is the logical start for our exploration of northern Japan. On arrival late afternoon, we are met and transferred to our hotel for a two-night stay.

Tokyo is the capital of Japan. At over 12 million people in the official metropolitan area alone, Tokyo is the core of the most populated urban area in the world, Greater Tokyo (which has a population of 35 million people).
This huge, wealthy and fascinating metropolis brings high-tech visions of the future side by side with glimpses of old Japan and has something for everyone. Today we visit Tokyo Tower and Meiji Jingu Shrine before enjoying lunch at a local restaurant. Afterwards, we continue our touring and see Asakusa Kannon Temple and Nakamise Street before returning to our hotel late afternoon. Dinner is included at the hotel this evening.

After a leisurely morning, we visit Hama Rikyu Gardens before enjoying lunch at a local restaurant in the Ginza area. There is some time at leisure before we are transferred this afternoon to Yokohoma port to join our 9-night cruise. Once on board, familiarise yourself with your surroundings, before we meet for dinner this evening.
Ship departs at 5.00pm

A full day at sea for you to enjoy the ship’s facilities.

Miyazaki is a sun-drenched coastal city in southeastern Kyushu, beautifully positioned along Japan’s Pacific coastline. Known for its relaxed atmosphere and tropical charm, the city features palm-lined streets, beautiful beaches and fascinating shrines steeped in Japanese mythology. Explore the scenic beauty of nearby Aoshima and the spectacular Nichinan Coast or simply soak up the laid-back coastal atmosphere. Miyazaki is also renowned for its delicious local cuisine, including Miyazaki beef, chicken nanban, tropical mangoes, citrus fruits and locally produced shochu.
Arrives 9.00am
Departs 6.00pm

Yakushima is a breathtaking mountainous island south of Kyushu, renowned for its ancient cedar forests and pristine natural beauty. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the island is a haven of moss-covered forests, cascading waterfalls, dramatic granite peaks and secluded beaches where sea turtles come ashore to nest. Blessed with abundant rainfall, Yakushima’s lush landscapes offer an unforgettable glimpse of Japan’s wild and untouched side.
Arrives 8.00am
Departs 5.00pm

Nestled along the scenic shores of Wakasa Bay in Fukui Prefecture, Obama offers a charming glimpse into traditional Japanese culture and coastal life. Once an important link to Kyoto via the historic “Saba Kaido” (Mackerel Road), the city has a rich heritage shaped by centuries of trade. Explore beautifully preserved merchant streets, historic temples and shrines, while discovering the region’s renowned food culture and connection to the sea. With its relaxed atmosphere and fascinating history, Obama provides an authentic and rewarding Japanese experience.
Arrives 8.00am
Departs 5.00pm

Set on the shores of Beppu Bay in Oita Prefecture, Beppu is one of Japan’s most famous hot-spring destinations, where clouds of steam rise throughout the city, creating a wonderfully atmospheric setting. Home to one of the country’s greatest concentrations of onsen, Beppu is best known for its colourful “Hells of Beppu”, a collection of unique and spectacular hot-spring pools. Beyond its thermal waters, enjoy beautiful mountain scenery, traditional craft experiences and the opportunity to explore nearby destinations such as Yufuin and Oita.
Arrives 8.00am
Departs 5.00pm

Step into Japan’s fascinating history in Himeji, a charming city in Hyogo Prefecture renowned for its magnificent architecture and cultural heritage. The city is home to Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Japan’s most spectacular and best-preserved castles. Explore the tranquil Koko-en Garden, with its beautifully landscaped traditional gardens, or venture further to discover atmospheric mountain temples. Himeji also offers a taste of local culinary traditions, with specialities including conger eel, oden, Hyogo beef and locally produced sake.
Arrives 8.00am
Departs 6.00pm

Set along the coast of Wakayama Prefecture, Shingu offers a fascinating introduction to the spiritual heritage and natural beauty of Japan’s Kumano region. The city is home to Kumano Hayatama Taisha, one of the revered Kumano Sanzan shrines, and provides access to ancient pilgrimage routes winding through the sacred mountains. Enjoy beautiful river, coastal and forest scenery while discovering the deep spiritual traditions that have shaped the region for centuries. Local flavours include fresh seafood, mehari-zushi, ume plums, sweet mikan citrus and locally grown tea.
Arrives 9.00am
Departs 4.00pm

Sadly, this morning we disembark our ship. We are met by our guide and enjoy a tour of the Japan National Stadium – the main stadium for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games. You’ll get to see areas not usually open to the public, such as the athletes’ locker rooms and the competition area, where you may still feel the energy from the events. Walk around the track of this historic sports venue, and step onto the Olympic podium, constructed of recycled plastic, to get a feel for what the competitors themselves felt. See a wall signed by 300 of these athletes and sit on the same benches where they sat. You can create your own Olympic memories. Afterwards, explore the Japan Olympic Museum. Since opening in September 2019, the Japan Olympic Museum in Tokyo introduced the Japanese Olympic Movement through its immersive multimedia exhibits under the theme of “Know, Learn, Feel, Challenge, and Think,” inviting visitors to experience the “Olympic Spirit.” Early afternoon we head to the airport for our evening flight home.

Arrive Auckland mid morning.