2026 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 three-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.

This morning, we visit a sumo training centre in Tokyo to observe the morning practice. We spend approximately two hours watching the sumo wrestlers train and observe the rules and regulations of sumo. It’s a rare chance for visitors to glimpse this exclusive world, and a fascinating window into a Japanese tradition. We then visit Hama Rikyu Gardens before enjoying lunch at a local restaurant in the Ginza area. The afternoon is free to relax, or you may like to continue exploring on your own. We meet for dinner later this evening.

There are many places to enjoy stunning views of Mt. Fuji, but few are as picturesque an area as Lake Kawaguchiko. The biggest and most accessible of Fuji’s five lakes, Kawaguchiko has a wealth of natural resources, with stunning autumn leaves, cherry blossoms and flower festivals galore. Our itinerary takes you on a leisurely exploration of some great sights in the Lake Kawaguchiko area, including the Mt. Fuji Ropeway, Saiko Iyashi no Sato Historical Village and Oishi Park (time permitting) – with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the view of Mt. Fuji. We spend two nights in Kawaguchiko.

Today we enjoy sightseeing in the Mt. Fuji area. Mount Fuji is Japan’s highest mountain at 3,776 m (12,389 ft). The perfect volcanic cone dominates the area of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, and the area has recently been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site as “Fujisan, sacred place and source of artistic inspiration”.
We travel up to the “5th Station”, halfway up the mountain at 2,300m. This spot is a preparation point for those climbing the mountain, and has shops, lodgings and facilities. From here we visit Ichiku Kubota Art Museum, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, followed by a visit to the eight ponds of Oshino Hakkai – renowned for their mineral-rich spring water, before we return to our hotel in Kawaguchiko.

This morning we will be dropped at Mishima Station and board the world famous Shinkansen to Osaka, and then transferred by coach to Kobe Port. We board Mitsui Ocean Fuji at 1pm.

Fukuoka is a bustling city on Kyushu Island, known for its ancient temples, beaches, and modern shopping malls. It’s a gateway to Asia with a rich cultural scene.

While Fukuoka itself does not have a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is in proximity to several sites in Kyushu, including the Sacred Island of Okinoshima and Associated Sites in the Munakata Region.

South Korea’s second-largest city and busiest port, Busan blends modern urban life with traditional Korean culture and stunning coastal scenery.

Shore Excursion – Busan Temple by the Sea & International Market : 4 hours
Discover two vibrant sides of Busan—its spiritual serenity and bustling commerce—on this 4-hour cultural excursion. Begin at Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, dramatically perched on a rocky coastline overlooking the East Sea. Unlike most temples nestled in the mountains, this seaside sanctuary offers a rare and breathtaking fusion of Buddhist tradition and ocean views. Stroll past stone lanterns, zodiac statues, and ornate pagodas as waves crash below, creating a tranquil yet powerful atmosphere. Then head into the heart of the city to explore Gukje Market, one of Korea’s largest and most historic marketplaces. Originally established during the Korean War, the market now thrives with hundreds of stalls offering everything from local street food and souvenirs to textiles and electronics. Guests can browse, sample, and soak in the lively energy of Busan’s commercial heritage. This tour offers a well-paced blend of reflection and exploration, ideal for guests seeking both cultural depth and urban flavour.

Yatsushiro is a quiet riverside town known for traditional crafts, seasonal blooms, and cultural festivals. Shore Excursion – Hitoyoshi Castle & Kuma River Cruise: 4.5 hours
Embark on a balanced journey through history and nature during this 4.5-hour guided excursion in Yatsushiro. Begin at the Hitoyoshi Castle History Museum, where guests can explore exhibits detailing the legacy of the Sagara clan and the castle’s role in regional defense. Artifacts, models, and interactive displays bring the feudal era to life, offering insight into the area’s samurai heritage. Continue with a Kuma River Cruise, gliding along one of Japan’s most scenic waterways. Known for its clear waters and gentle rapids, the river offers both relaxation and adventure as guests take in the lush landscapes and riverside charm. This excursion blends cultural discovery with natural beauty—ideal for guests seeking a moderate-paced exploration of Yatsushiro’s highlights.

Ibusuki is renowned for its unique sand bathing experience, where visitors are buried in naturally heated sand for relaxation.

Shore Excursion – Historic Ibusuki: 4 hours
Embark on a meaningful exploration of southern Kagoshima during this 4-hour guided excursion. Begin at the Chiran Tokko Peace Hall, a solemn museum dedicated to the young kamikaze pilots of World War II. Through preserved letters, photographs, and exhibits, guests gain a poignant understanding of sacrifice and remembrance. Continue to the Chiran Samurai Residence, a beautifully preserved district where Edo-period homes and gardens evoke the refined lifestyle of samurai families. Guests can stroll through stone paths, admire traditional architecture, and experience the tranquil atmosphere of this historic quarter. This excursion blends reflection and heritage—ideal for guests seeking both cultural depth and historical perspective in Ibusuki.

Amami’s blend of Ryukyu and mainland Japanese culture creates a laid-back, nature-rich island experience. Shore Excursion – Amami Park & Cape Ayamaru Discovery: 4.5 hours
Embark on a balanced journey through culture and coastal scenery during this 4.5-hour guided excursion in Naze. Begin at Amami Park, a cultural complex celebrating the natural beauty and traditions of the Amami Islands. Guests can explore exhibits on local flora, fauna, and crafts, as well as admire works by Amami-born artist Isson Tanaka, whose vivid paintings capture the islands’ tropical spirit. Continue to Cape Ayamaru, a dramatic headland offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. Guests can stroll along walking paths, enjoy the sea breeze, and take in the striking contrast of turquoise waters and rugged coastline. This excursion blends cultural enrichment with natural beauty—ideal for guests seeking a moderate-paced exploration of Naze’s highlights.

Where firearms were first introduced to Japan, Tanegashima now leads in space exploration and science. Tanegashima is known for space exploration and samurai history. It was the first site of European contact with firearms in Japan.

Shore Excursion – Tanegashima Space Exploration: 4.5 hours
Embark on a fascinating journey into Japan’s aerospace frontier during this 4.5-hour guided excursion. Visit the Tanegashima Space Center, the nation’s largest rocket-launch facility, where guests will explore the Space Science and Technology Center. Exhibits showcase Japan’s achievements in satellite launches, rocket engineering, and space exploration, with models, interactive displays, and multimedia presentations bringing the science to life. Guests can learn about the history of Japan’s space program, view launch pads from observation points, and gain insight into the cutting-edge technology that connects Tanegashima to the stars. This excursion blends scientific discovery with coastal scenery—ideal for guests seeking a moderate-paced exploration of Japan’s gateway to space.

Mitsui Ocean Fuji sets sail from Tanegashima to Kobe, charting a course through sparkling seas and unforgettable moments. Spend the day making the most of the ship’s outstanding facilities, activities and dining options while onboard.

Today we arrive back in port, and sadly it’s time to bid farewell to your newly formed friends, both passengers and staff. On disembarkation you will be driven to Osaka Airport (ITM), stopping for some free time at a traditional shopping area, before checking in for your flight to Narita and then onward connection back to New Zealand

Arrive Auckland mid morning.