Essence of Japan & South Korea

Your journey begins in Busan, where you’ll board your luxury Emerald yacht and set sail along the stunning coasts of Korea en route to Japan. With its bustling markets, historic temples, vibrant neighbourhoods, and serene beaches, Busan offers a warm introduction to the rich culture and unforgettable experiences that await on your voyage. Please book your flight to arrive into Busan prior to 02:00 PM.

Experience Hagi, a riverside city on the picturesque Abu-gawa delta, framed by mountains and natural beauty. The city’s historic Shizuki Park features remnants of a 17th-century castle, while the old town invites leisurely walks along streets lined with traditional samurai residences and preserved merchant homes. Cultural sites include engaging museums and workshops showcasing Hagi-yaki pottery, offering a hands-on glimpse into the city’s artistic heritage.

Discover Fukuoka, Kyushu’s dynamic capital and well-known culinary hub, where ancient shrines meet modern vibrancy. Explore the serene Ohori Park with its tranquil lake, bustling Tenjin canal city, and the famous Yatai street food stalls, showcasing Fukuoka’s unique blend of tradition, culture, and flavour.

Arrive in Kitakyushu, Kyushu’s northern gateway, where urban energy meets historic charm.  Admire Kokura Castle and its serene gardens, the retro streets of Mojiko Port, and the dazzling night views from Mt. Sarakura, capturing the city’s rich history and striking beauty. Nestled between mountains and sea, this vibrant city blends tradition and modernity for an unforgettable day.

Hiroshima is a profoundly significant city, shaped by its history and defined by its enduring message of peace and resilience. The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum, including the iconic Atomic Bomb Dome, stand as powerful reminders of the past and invite reflection on the importance of peace. Alongside this, Hiroshima Castle and the serene Shukkeien Garden reveal layers of heritage and refined landscape design. Tree-lined avenues, riverside paths, and lively neighbourhoods complete a city that balances remembrance with a vibrant, forward-looking atmosphere.

This morning, you will arrive at the port of Uno, the gateway to the garden city of Okayama, the second-largest city in the Chugoku region. Okayama is home to the stunning Korakuen Garden, which was commissioned by a feudal lord in 1687 as a place to receive guests. Choose to spend your day strolling immaculately manicured gardens, admiring historic architecture or contemplating thought-provoking art. 

Welcome to Kobe on Japan’s main island of Honshu, a major international port city framed by ocean views and mountain peaks. With a long history as one of Japan’s key gateways for global trade and cultural exchange, Kobe blends rich maritime heritage with a vibrant, modern identity.

Rebuilt and revitalised following the 1995 earthquake, the city today showcases a distinctive mix of history, culture, and international flair, offering an ideal setting for exploration and indulgence.

Arrive in Kumano, a region steeped in spiritual history and natural beauty. Sacred sites such as the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trails, ancient shrines, and tranquil forests have inspired travellers for centuries. With its serene rivers, coastal vistas, and rich cultural heritage, Kumano offers a peaceful and unforgettable stop on your journey.

Set against the majesty of Mount Fuji, Shimizu is considered one of Japan’s most beautiful ports. With a history dating back to the Nara Period and framed by stunning natural landscapes, Shimizu offers a wealth of inspiring sights. Discover rich Japanese culture and nearby shrines, stroll through the town to immerse yourself in local life, and enjoy the renowned views toward Mount Fuji on clear days, when the iconic peak rises dramatically above the horizon.

Your luxurious yacht journey comes to an end in Tokyo, Japan’s dynamic capital where soaring skyscrapers stand beside centuries-old temples and lively streets buzz with energy. From here, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight home or onward travels, carrying with you unforgettable memories of your extraordinary voyage through Japan.  Please book your flight to depart out of Tokyo after 12:00 PM. This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such, Emerald Cruises cannot guarantee the cruise will be operated unaltered from the itinerary stated above.