Japan Circumnavigation

Tokyo, Japan's bustling capital, offers an eclectic mix of tradition and modernity. Begin your adventure with a visit to the Asakusa district, home to the ancient Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo's oldest and most significant temple. Nearby, Nakamise Street is perfect for souvenir shopping and sampling traditional snacks.

For a panoramic view of the city, head to the Tokyo Skytree, one of the world's tallest towers. Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest pedestrian intersections, is a must-see for its sheer scale and energy. To experience tranquility, visit the serene Meiji Shrine, nestled in a lush forest in Shibuya. Don't miss trying Tokyo's renowned sushi at Tsukiji Outer Market or exploring the vibrant Harajuku district for trendy fashion and unique cafes.

Yokohama Port serves as a gateway for travelers heading to Tokyo, located approximately 30 kms (about 19 miles) north of the port. The journey to Tokyo can take around 30 to 45 minutes by train. The Osanbashi Yokohama International Passenger Terminal is the main docking site for cruise ships. The most efficient way to travel is by train, with the Minatomirai Line directly connecting Yokohama to Shibuya, a major hub in Tokyo. This allows visitors to easily access famous sights such as the Shibuya Crossing, Meiji Shrine, and the vibrant district of Shinjuku. Given the limited time typical of cruise stopovers, planning ahead to prioritize which attractions to visit is advisable.

Whichever ship you decide on you can choose from a refreshing variety of pools and whirlpools - each heated to just the right temperature. Queen Elizabeth offers two spacious outdoor pools as well as a hydrotherapy pool in her spa.

Overlooking Beppu Bay to its east and dramatic mountain peaks to the west, Beppu is blanketed with misty turquoise waters and elegant Japanese foliage. Its main attraction is the 'Hells of Beppu,' a collection of 8 onsen, or hot springs, some of which feature geysers and colourful waters ranging from white to copper to sapphire. Ships will dock at the port of Beppu.

Top Things to Do in Beppu:

• soak in one of the many onsen
• take a cable car ride to Mount Tsurumi
• view the 8 'Hells of Beppu'
• visit the Mt. Takasaki Monkey Park

Whether you're an absolute beginner or simply keen to perfect your steps you'll love the opportunity to join the variety of dance classes on offer. Available on voyages of 7 nights or more, classes are lead by coupled instructors and include ballroom as well as Latin and line dance. And when evening falls, what better way to showcase your new moves than in the chandeliered grandeur of the Queens Room?

Taipei City stands as a vibrant metropolis set against the backdrop of towering mountains, offering a unique blend of urban energy and natural beauty. Its iconic Taipei 101, once the world's tallest building, provides panoramic views of the sprawling cityscape. The bustling night markets, such as Shilin and Raohe, offer an array of local delicacies, showcasing Taipei's rich culinary heritage.

Culture and history intertwine at the National Palace Museum, housing an extensive collection of Chinese imperial art that spans millennia. For a peaceful retreat, the nearby hot springs of Beitou invite visitors to relax in their therapeutic waters. Taipei is a city that constantly surprises, combining tradition with modernity in ways that captivate the hearts of travellers.

In Keelung, cruise ships dock at the Keelung Port, which serves as the gateway to Taipei, located approximately 25 kilometers (15.5 miles) away. Travel time to Taipei can vary, but it generally takes about 30 to 45 minutes by car, depending on traffic.

For exploring Taipei, travellers have several transportation options including taxis, buses, and trains. The city is renowned for its rich blend of modern and traditional cultures, with must-visit sights like the Taipei 101 skyscraper and the historical Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall. For a convenient and immersive experience, consider joining a guided tour or utilizing the efficient MRT (Metro) system to navigate the city's highlights.

It couldn't be easier to meet people on board. The ship's social host ensures that guests need never feel out of place, enabling solo travellers to make connections at specially hosted coffee gatherings and dinner tables, and also a range of daytime activities. Indeed, before your invitation to the 'Welcome Cocktail Party' arrives, there's every chance you'll already have met the perfect company to share in the excitement.

Okinawa, the jewel of Japan’s Ryukyu Islands, offers a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Start your day with a visit to Shurijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing the island’s rich heritage. Wander through the vibrant streets of Naha, where you can explore traditional markets and sample local delicacies like Okinawan soba and sata andagi (sweet deep-fried buns).

For nature enthusiasts, Okinawa’s stunning beaches and clear turquoise waters are perfect for snorkeling and diving, especially around the Kerama Islands. Don’t miss the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, home to majestic whale sharks and diverse marine life. Wrap up your day with a stroll along Kokusai Street, enjoying the lively atmosphere and picking up unique souvenirs.

Naha Cruise Terminal is located about 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) from the city of Naha, a short 10-minute taxi or bus ride away. The terminal is a great starting point to explore Okinawa’s rich history and vibrant culture, including Shurijo Castle and the lively Kokusai Street. For transportation, taxis and buses are readily available. The Yui Rail monorail is another convenient option, with a station near the terminal that connects to major attractions. This makes it easy for travelers to navigate Naha and enjoy the unique blend of traditional Okinawan and modern Japanese influences.

Discover new ways to learn and grow with the remarkable guest speakers and classes we host on board. During your voyage, you may be joined by some famous faces with fascinating stories to share - perhaps a famous writer, actor or musician or possibly an eminent scientist, explorer or politician.

Tokyo, Japan's bustling capital, offers an eclectic mix of tradition and modernity. Begin your adventure with a visit to the Asakusa district, home to the ancient Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo's oldest and most significant temple. Nearby, Nakamise Street is perfect for souvenir shopping and sampling traditional snacks.

For a panoramic view of the city, head to the Tokyo Skytree, one of the world's tallest towers. Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest pedestrian intersections, is a must-see for its sheer scale and energy. To experience tranquility, visit the serene Meiji Shrine, nestled in a lush forest in Shibuya. Don't miss trying Tokyo's renowned sushi at Tsukiji Outer Market or exploring the vibrant Harajuku district for trendy fashion and unique cafes.

Yokohama Port serves as a gateway for travelers heading to Tokyo, located approximately 30 kms (about 19 miles) north of the port. The journey to Tokyo can take around 30 to 45 minutes by train. The Osanbashi Yokohama International Passenger Terminal is the main docking site for cruise ships. The most efficient way to travel is by train, with the Minatomirai Line directly connecting Yokohama to Shibuya, a major hub in Tokyo. This allows visitors to easily access famous sights such as the Shibuya Crossing, Meiji Shrine, and the vibrant district of Shinjuku. Given the limited time typical of cruise stopovers, planning ahead to prioritize which attractions to visit is advisable.