Wonders of Japan Cruise: Cherry Blossom Season

Upon arrival, transfer to The Ritz-Carlton, Osaka, where you gather for a welcome dinner and Noh performance.

Begin your adventure in Osaka, Japan’s third-largest city. The day’s excursions may include a visit to Kyoto's Golden Pavilion and an exploration of Zen Buddhism, a journey to Nara revealing Japan’s oldest temple, or a scenic drive amid Uji’s iconic cherry trees.

Enjoy the morning at leisure in your hotel, or perhaps join a panoramic tour of Osaka Castle. This afternoon, transfer to your luxurious expedition cruiser.

Wake up in the charming port of Takamatsu, the gateway to Shikoku Island. Your day might feature a boat ride to Shodoshima, the heart of Japan’s olive-growing industry; a visit to the gardens of Shikoku Island’s Ritsurin Park and an exploration of traditional bonsai horticulture in Takamatsu’s Kinashi area; or a ferry ride to Naoshima Island to tour Benesse House and a museum dedicated to Tadao Ando’s architecture.

Today, explore Hiroshima, renowned for its Atomic Bomb Dome and Peace Park. You might arise to split your day between Hiroshima and Miyajima, site of the iconic Torii Gate. Alternatively, spend an immersive day in Hiroshima and meet a storyteller of the World War II atomic bomb attack, or head to Miyajima to hike scenic Mount Misen.

Spend the day in Uwajima, home to Japan’s pearl industry. The day’s excursions may include a visit to a local pearl farm and the samurai-era gardens of Tensha-en, an exploration of Nanraku-en Garden, or a stroll down a cherry tree-lined lane to the old town.

This afternoon, arrive in the port of Karatsu, once an early trading post between Japan and mainland Asia. Once ashore, visit Karatsu Castle, or perhaps head to the city of Imari to tour its celebrated porcelain works.

Disembark in Busan and transfer to Gyeongju, ancient capital of the Silla Dynasty. Here, you might explore Gyeongju’s excavated temples, tombs and pagodas, or visit the Hyundai factory. Alternatively, stay in Busan to take in the seaside Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, the scenic overlook from Nurimaru APEC House and the colorful houses of Gamcheon Culture Village. Return to the ship for a traditional music performance at the pier.

Explore Matsue, a city renowned for its idyllic countryside. The day’s excursions may include visits to Yuushien Garden and Matsue Castle, or a tour of the Adachi Museum of Art. Later, you might also savor a traditional lunch at a ryokan (inn) and visit Yakumo-mura village to learn about the art of Japanese papermaking.

Visit the thriving art center of Kanazawa, known for its pottery and gold-leaf workmanship. Here, you might stroll Kenrokuen Garden, wander Omicho Market and tour the Higashi Chaya-gai district’s well-preserved historic geisha houses. Alternatively, you might hike Kakusenkei Gorge and soak in a soothing onsen (hot spring), visit Kanazawa’s Oumi market and cook with a local chef, or explore the Shogawa River valley. This evening, enjoy an exclusive geisha performance.

Arrive amid Sado Island’s rice paddies, bamboo groves and surf-pounded seacoasts. Today may include an exclusive private performance by the Kodo taiko drummers or tours of Hakusanmaru Exhibition Hall and Ogi Folk Museum.

Enjoy a relaxing day while cruising toward Hokkaido, Japan’s largest and northernmost island.

Arrive in Otaru, a port city known for its canals, sake distilleries, architecture and views of Mount Tengu. Here, you might tour the city and visit a sake distillery. Alternately, you might spend the day discovering nearby Sapporo’s parks, landmarks and market.

Disembark your vessel in Otaru and transfer to the airport in Sapporo for your homebound flight.