Japan and Korea: Cultural Shores and Northern Landscapes

Days 1-2. Hiroshima

Hiroshima is a city of quiet strength, where modern life sits beside places of remembrance. It is also a gateway to nearby sacred landscapes, with calm coastal scenery and a strong sense of local tradition. It is an opening that sets a thoughtful tone for the voyage

Day 3. Shimonoseki

Shimonoseki sits at a strategic maritime crossing where Honshu and Kyushu face each other across a narrow strait. It is known for sea views and a strong food culture, with layers of history tied to power shifts and coastal trade. The setting feels brisk, salty, and very Japanese

Activities:

Optional

Chofu Samurai Town

3.5 hours

Walk through the town of Chofu, the castle town of the former Chofu domain in the samurai era. The Chofu domain was a subsidiary to the Nagato domain, better known as the “Choshu” domain which was one of the most influential political powers among the feudal domains looking to overthrow the Tokugawa military government which had significantly weakened after more than two centuries in power. After arriving in Chofu by coach, start your walking tour off with a visit to the Chofu Mori residence. The Mori clan was the ruling samurai clan of the Choshu and Chofu domains from the 16th century through the 19th century at the end of samurai rule. This residence belonged to the last head of the clan, 14th domain lord Mori Mototoshi, built in 1903. Although built after the samurai era had already ended, the building features characteristics of a samurai mansion as if to convey the pride of the Mori clan as one of the prolific samurai clans. Next, walk over to the Kozanji temple, the guardian temple of the Chofu Mori clan. The grave of the domain lords of the Mori clan are located here. The temple became the stage of historic events which hold significance within Japanese history. Following your temple visit walk to the Shimonoseki City Museum of History. This museum opened in November 2016, exhibits the history of Shimonoseki, including the end of samurai rule and the Meiji Restoration as a turning point for Japan, through precious historical sources. Good to Know: Guests must be able to walk approximately, approx. 3 hours walking tour at Chofu town, with inclines and steps and extended periods of standing.

Optional

Akiyoshidai Hiking and Akiyoshido Cave

4.5 hours

This immersive tour offers a unique exploration of both the surface and subterranean landscapes of this designated Quasi-National Park. After one hour drive from the port, our visit begins on the surface with a light guided hike across the vast Akiyoshidai Plateau. This landscape is renowned for its captivating and seemingly endless carpet of white limestone pinnacles, known as karren, that dot the emerald-green grass. Your local guide will provide insightful commentary on the unique geological history and ecological significance of this striking karst environment, setting the stage for the dramatic descent to follow. Following the invigorating plateau walk, we proceed directly to the Akiyoshido Cave. Rather than simply walking in, you will access this subterranean marvel via an elevator descent, dramatically dropping approximately 100 meters (330 feet) beneath the plateau's surface. As one of the largest and longest stalactite caves in the world (extending over 10 kilometers in total), Akiyoshido is a cavern of immense scale and complexity. The publicly accessible sightseeing course covers a well-maintained one-kilometer stretch, allowing for a comfortable exploration of its most celebrated features. The cave is famous for its dense, intricately shaped formations, including the Hundred Plates (Hyakumaizara), a stunning series of stepped, terraced flowstones resembling rice paddies and the Golden Pillar (Koganebashira), a colossal column that took millennia to form, rising impressively from the floor to the ceiling. This tour provides a compelling balance of outdoor activity and geological education, offering a professional and memorable deep dive into a world-class natural wonder. Good to Know: This tour involves about 3.5km (2miles) walking on different terrains. Hiking is about 2 km (1.2miles) with maximum 20m (6.5 feet) difference in altitude. Inside cave guests will have to negotiate several steps up or down.

Included

Views of Kanmon Strait and Mojiko Retro

4 hours

Discover the breathtaking beauty where Honshu and Kyushu meet at Kanmon Strait, one of Japan's most scenic waterways. This captivating tour takes you through a journey of spectacular panoramic views, bustling markets, and sacred shrines that showcase the rich maritime heritage of Shimonoseki. You'll experience the perfect blend of natural splendor and cultural treasures as you visit four remarkable destinations, the elevated vantage points of Mekari No. 2 Observatory and Mojiko Retro Observatory Room, the vibrant culinary scene at Karato Market, and the spiritual serenity of Akama Shrine. Your adventure begins at Mekari No. 2 Observatory, perched on the hills overlooking the Kanmon Strait. This observation deck offers unparalleled views of the narrow waterway that separates Japan's main islands, where countless ships navigate daily through these historic waters. Next, you'll ascend to the Mojiko Retro Observatory Room, where sweeping vistas reveal the architectural charm of the restored port district below. From this elevated perspective, you can appreciate how the historic Mojiko area has been lovingly preserved, maintaining its early 20th-century character while serving modern visitors. The tour continues to Karato Market, Shimonoseki's famous seafood paradise where you'll witness the lively atmosphere of Japan's fishing industry. This bustling marketplace offers fresh catches from the surrounding waters, including the region's renowned fugu (pufferfish), providing an authentic taste of local maritime culture. Your final destination is Akama Shrine, a sacred site with over 800 years of history dedicated to Emperor Antoku, who perished in the nearby sea during the historic Battle of Dan-no-ura in 1185. This vermillion shrine complex represents one of Japan's most poignant historical sites, where tragedy and beauty intertwine against the backdrop of the strait's eternal flow. Good to know: This tour involves about 1 km (half a mile) mostly on paved ground. Guests will have to negotiate 60 steps up and down the Akama Jingu.

Day 3. Cruising Kanmon Strait

Sailing through the Kanmon Strait is challenging with strong currents and an S-shaped bend. One of the world’s busiest shipping lanes, the strait cuts a dramatic 38 km (24 mi) channel, narrowing to 700 m (0.4 mi) at its tightest point. The graceful Kanmon Bridge, a 1,068-m (3,504-ft) suspension bridge, spans the waterway between Honshu and Kyushu. Shimonoseki overlooks the strait from Honshu, while Moji district stands watch from Kyushu

Day 4. Busan

Busan is a port city with beaches, hills, and a busy harbour energy. It blends memorial sites and modern neighbourhoods with markets that still feel local and direct. Compared to Japan’s smaller ports, it is louder, bigger, and more urban

Activities:

Optional

UNESCO Treasures of Gyeongju

7.5 hours

Your journey begins with a comfortable departure from the port as you travel inland toward Gyeongju, the ancient capital of the Silla Dynasty and one of Korea’s most culturally significant regions. Your first stop is the magnificent Bulguksa Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage. Site renowned for its serene atmosphere and masterful stone architecture. As you explore the temple grounds, you’ll discover centuries-old pagodas, intricate carvings, and panoramic views that showcase the elegance of traditional Korean Buddhist design. After the temple visit, enjoy a relaxing drive through the scenic countryside before stopping for lunch at a local restaurant. The tour then proceeds to Tumuli Park, home to large grassy burial mounds that house the remains of Silla royalty. Walking among these ancient tombs offers a unique glimpse into Korea’s early history and the sophisticated burial culture that defined the kingdom. The park’s expansive landscape and peaceful pathways make it an engaging and photogenic part of the journey. Next, a short drive brings you to the Gyeongju National Museum, the cultural heart of the city. The museum displays an extraordinary collection of artifacts, including gold crowns, pottery, sculptures, and relics excavated from royal tombs and palace sites. These treasures provide a rich and tangible picture of Silla society, craftsmanship, and beliefs. After immersing yourself in Gyeongju’s history and heritage, you will return to the port with a deeper appreciation for Korea’s ancient past and its lasting cultural legacy. Good to Know: Drive is 1h30 each way This tour requires a total walking distance of approximately 4Km (2.2 miles). The pathways in Tumuli Park are a mix of sand and paved walkways. Bulguksa Temple features both earthen and paved surfaces, but certain areas include numerous steps and fairly steep slopes, which may be challenging for wheelchair users.

Optional

Gamcheon Cultural Village and Local Life

4 hours

Discover the vibrant charm and coastal beauty of Busan on this unforgettable tour. Begin your journey at Gamcheon Culture Village, once a modest hillside community for Korean War refugees, now transformed into a colourful mosaic of street art, murals, and creative spaces thanks to a community-led revival. Wander through its winding alleys filled with charm, history, and artistic energy. Next, head to the scenic Songdo Beach Skywalk, Korea’s longest curved overwater path. Stretching 104 meters over the sea, this glass-bottom walkway offers breathtaking views of the coastline and a thrilling seaside experience. Wrap up your tour at the lively Jagalchi Fish Market, Korea’s largest seafood market and a beloved Busan landmark. Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and flavours of the ocean as you explore bustling stalls filled with freshly caught seafood—and even enjoy a taste of the catch if you’d like. This tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and seaside atmosphere—an ideal way to experience the unique spirit of Busan.

Included

Story Of Busan

3 hrs 50 min

Discover the storied past of South Korea on a tour that traces the nation's journey from independence to modern resilience. This excursion masterfully blends solemn reflection, cultural deep-dive, and the vibrant energy of "Old Busan.“ A Tribute to Courage: UN Memorial Cemetery in Korea. Begin your journey at the UN Memorial Cemetery in Korea (UNMCK), a peaceful and profoundly moving sanctuary. Here, amidst perfectly manicured grounds and soaring tributes, you will explore the complex history of the Korean War, the conflict that tragically followed South Korea's independence in August 1945. The UNMCK is a rare and unique site, honouring the ultimate sacrifice made by UN soldiers from 16 countries and aids from five others. It serves as a powerful testament to global solidarity and a moment for solemn reflection on the cost of freedom. Next, immerse yourself in the enduring spirit of the region at the Busan Museum. Designed to be a magnificent repository of regional identity, the museum goes beyond mere artifacts. Explore a stunning collection of relics and historical art pieces that preserve the unique traditional culture and history of Busan. It’s a compelling narrative that shows how this resilient coastal city evolved through centuries, giving you a comprehensive appreciation for its heritage. Conclude your historical deep-dive with a sensory blast of modern life as you experience the beating heart of "Old Busan" at the legendary Gukje Market. This isn't just a market, it's a sprawling, multi-layered labyrinth and one of Korea’s largest traditional marketplaces. Dive into the electrifying atmosphere where every alleyway is a vibrant tapestry of commerce. You’ll be captivated as Gukje Market seamlessly connects to Bupyeong Market and Kkangtong Market, creating a seemingly endless maze. The market stocks such a dizzying variety of goods, from vintage treasures to cutting-edge Korean fashion and mouth-watering street food, that you can truly "find almost everything you need right here." It's the perfect place to grab a memorable souvenir and feel the authentic, resilient spirit of Busan before returning to your ship.

Days 5-6. Sakaiminato

Sakaiminato has the feel of a working coastal town, shaped by seafood, folklore, and a slower pace. Nearby landscapes shift quickly from shoreline to forested mountains, with gardens and museum spaces that match the region’s quiet aesthetic. It is a softer, more intimate stop after Busan

Activities:

Optional

Dinner and Traditional Folk Song Performance

3 hrs 12 min

Discover the "Land of Gods" on this immersive journey starting from the bustling port of Sakaiminato. This curated experience blends the mystical atmosphere of ancient Shintoism with the refined elegance of traditional Japanese hospitality. Depart the port for Mihonoseki, located at the tip of the Shimane Peninsula to the northeast from Sakaiminato. Our first stop will be to pay a visit to the Miho Shrine, this is the head shrine for all Ebisu shrines across Japan (over 3,000 of them), dedicated primarily to Shinto deity Ebisu and his mother, Mihotsuhime-no-mikoto. Mihonoseki is steeped in mythology as the residence of Ebisu, one of the Seven Lucky Gods. According to tradition, this is also the historical setting for the kuni-yuzuri, or the legendary transfer of the land. The shrine's unique architectural style, known as Miho-zukuri, is a designated Important Cultural Property. A short walk from the shrine and you will arrive at Mihokan, a historic local ryokan and the venue of tonight's dinner and entertainment. Designated as a Tangible Cultural Property of Japan, the main building is historic masterpiece of traditional Japanese architecture. Enter the building and head upstairs and get settled for your meal. Take part in a traditional sake barrel opening ceremony where select participants open a sake barrel by striking the top of the barrel with a hammer, signalling the beginning of the celebration. Dinner is a Japanese set meal featuring the specialties of the region. Be entertained by a performance of traditional music and dance which has been inherited over generations in the Mihonoseki area. The music is played at the Miho Shrine during ritual ceremonies. It features shamisen (Japanese traditional stringed instrument similar to a banjo) and taiko drum along with vocals and dance. Listen and even join the dance to take in the authentic local culture of Miho.

Included

Adachi Museum of Art and Yushi-en Japanese Garden

4.5 hours

Depart from the pier and your first destination is Adachi Museum of Art. Housing an impressive collection dating from 1912 to the present, including works by Yokoyama Taikan, one of the major figures in Japanese modern art, the Adachi Museum of Art, founded in 1980, is known not only for its galleries of pottery, wood carvings and artwork but also for its extraordinary gardens. Considered to be the most beautiful gardens in Japan, it is home to a moss garden, a pond garden, a tea garden and a pine tree garden set off by stark white gravel. Your next stop is Yushi-en Garden. Located on Daikon Island, Yushi-en is a breathtaking garden of over, 40,000 square meters that thrives through all four seasons. Established in 1975 as a private garden, the grounds feature an array of landscape elements from gardens to waterfalls, streams and rock gardens. Yushien's main attraction is its collection of Japanese peony flowers, with over 250 different types that bloom in an array of colors. Good to Know: Some areas of the Adachi Museum of Art are accessible only by stairs. At Yushien Garden guests will walk on gravel path and steppingstones.

Day 7. Maizuru

Maizuru carries naval history and a clear link to the Meiji era, with brick warehouses and a harbour built for strategy. The wider region opens into classic Kyoto area scenery, where refined culture, temples, and historic districts are within reach. It is a day that balances port history with inland elegance

Activities:

Optional

Amanohashidate with Lunch

6 hours

Discover the enchanting beauty of Amanohashidate, one of Japan's three most celebrated scenic views, while exploring the rich textile heritage of the Tango region from your Maizuru port stop. This tour combines spiritual significance and breathtaking natural landscapes. Amanohashidate is a strip of sand bar connecting two ends of the Aso Bay and has been believed to be a creation of the Shinto gods. This pine-covered sand bar stretching across Miyazu Bay creates the famous "bridge to heaven" vista that has inspired poets and artists for over a millennium. An approximate one hour drive from the port takes you to the Chionji temple here we start off the day around Amanohashidate. The temple's founding myth tells deep connection to the sacred sandbar, as the Monju-bosatsu, the Buddha housed in Chionji, tamed the malevolent dragon gods to bring peace and order. Just outside of the temple is the boat landing from which a boat will take you across to the northern end of Amanohashidate. An approximate 12-minute ride will offer a different view of the sandbar. Once arriving at Ichinomiya station, take a brief walk uphill to the cable car station to ascend to Kasamatsu Park for the iconic view of Amanohashidate from up above. You'll understand why this natural wonder captivates visitors when you witness the pine trees seemingly floating between sky and sea. Follow local tradition, the 'Matanozoki', try taking a photo while standing with your back to the view, bending over to look at Amanohashidate through your legs. This upside-down perspective makes the sandbar appear as though it’s a bridge floating up into the sky Take the cable car back down to near sea level and walk down to the Motoise Kono Shrine, an ancient Shinto sanctuary that holds profound spiritual importance as the original home of Amaterasu, the sun goddess, before she was enshrined at Ise Grand Shrine. This 1,300-year-old temple complex allows you to witness traditional Japanese architecture and experience the serene atmosphere of sacred grounds where emperors once worshipped. Your exploration of Amanohashidate concludes here, and after a short drive on the bus you will arrive at the lunch venue for a Japanese-style lunch featuring some local ingredients. Good to know: This tour involves approximately 1.6 km (1 mile) walking overall with steps on flat and mostly paved ground. Some inclination at Kasamatsu Park. Walking at Amanohashidate is about 1 hour.

Included

Kyoto Arashiyama with Buddhist Lunch

6 hrs 55 min

A nearly two hours drive will take us to Kyoto where we will visit one of the most popular and famous sightseeing spots in town. Our first stop will be at the Tenryuji temple in Arashiyama to see a famous Japanese Garden. Arashiyama is famous for its beautiful mountain, river and flowers, and a lot of villas built around the 9th century. Teneryuji temple one of the five great Zen temples of Kyoto, boasts an exceptional Zen-style garden from Japan's Muromachi Period. The temple was established in 1339 by Takauji, the first shogun of the Ashikaga shogunate, in memory of the Emperor Godaigo. Various fires and conflicts in the temple's long history have destroyed all the original buildings, the current structures are restorations from the Meiji Period, over one hundred years ago. Walk tough the famous bamboo grove just next to temple, be amazed by this wonderful green world, with hundreds of bamboo around you. After lunch, you will visit the Fukuda Art Museum, a relatively new cultural attraction that opened in October 2019 in the heart of Saga-Arashiyama. This museum represents a remarkable addition to Kyoto's rich cultural landscape, housing an impressive collection of approximately 2,000 artworks that span from the Edo Period to modern times. The Fukuda Art Museum specializes in Japanese paintings, with a particular focus on works by Kyoto painters. The collection includes around 1,500 primary pieces by major Japanese artists, featuring notable works that have never been publicly displayed and countless pieces that have remained hidden from view for many years. This makes it a unique destination where visitors can discover rare and previously unseen masterpieces of Japanese art.

Optional

History of Maizuru

3 hours

Your half-day exploration begins with visit to Red Brick Park and Museum, which is a cluster of 12 brick warehouses collectively. These buildings designed in the modern architectural style are considered to be some of the most valuable brick structures still standing. In the Meiji Period, 9 buildings were constructed and 3 more were built in the Taisho Period to be used as warehouses by the former navy. Of these 12 buildings, 8 are designated as the Important Cultural Property of Japan under the name, "Former Maizuru Navy Weapon Warehouses." Furthermore, 5 of these buildings are preserved, one of which is open as a museum showcasing the history of Maizuru City. Next visit is Maizuru Repatriation Memorial Museum. After the end of World War II from 1945 and spanning a total of 13 years, the Port of Maizuru welcomed repatriates from former Manchuria and Siberia. This museum narrates the factual history of this repatriation as well as about the internment of the Japanese soldiers and civilians in Siberia. On exhibit are letters written to families from Siberia, everyday items used during the internment, and the replicas of the repatriation ships that arrived at Maizuru Port. Lastly, enjoy the stunning view from Goro Sky Tower. A panorama of the deeply indented shoreline and scattered islands – part of the beauty of Maizuru Bay, which has been chosen as the most scenic spot in the Kinki area – can be enjoyed from the observation tower.

Day 8. Ogi, Sado Island

Sado feels separate from the mainland, with rugged coasts, small harbours, and a strong folk identity. The island is known for traditional arts and seafaring stories, with villages that still look and feel preserved. It is one of the most distinctive cultural stops on the route

Activities:

Included

Shukunegi Village and Taiko Drum Workshop

2.5 hours

This tour invites you to explore the cultural heart of Ogi, beginning with the world-renowned Taiko group, Kodo. Known globally for their awe-inspiring mastery, Kodo offers you a rare opportunity to learn the art of drumming from the best in the field. After a brief lecture on the group's deep historical roots on Sado Island, you’ll step behind the drums under the guidance of former Kodo members. The experience culminates in a live demonstration by your instructors; as they play the same drums you’ve just used, you’ll feel the 'voice of the earth' resonate through your entire body. From the thunder of the drums, we transition to the serene, narrow paths of Shukunegi Village. Once a bustling hub for shipbuilders during the Edo-period gold rush, this preserved historic district still echoes with the atmosphere of the past. To conclude, we’ll visit the Hakusanmaru exhibit, where you can marvel at a full-scale, faithful reconstruction of a 1858 sengokubune (wooden freight ship), a testament to the village's incredible maritime legacy.

Included

Shukunegi Village & Tub Boat Ride

3 hours

Begin your journey on Sado Island’s iconic Tarai-bune, the traditional tub boats of the Ogi coast. Originally adapted from simple washing tubs, these unique vessels were perfected over generations to navigate the area's jagged reefs and narrow inlets. Today, you can ride in one of these "symbols of Sado," steered skillfully with a single oar, just as local fishers have done for centuries to collect seaweed and shellfish. Afterward, we visit Shukunegi Village, a historic port that flourished during the Edo period’s gold mining boom. Wander through a labyrinth of narrow stone paths lined with the homes of master shipbuilders. While their cedar exteriors appear modest, many hide opulent interiors finished in rich lacquer. To conclude the tour, we head uphill to see the Hakusanmaru, a stunning, full-scale replica of a 1858 Sengokubune merchant ship, meticulously reconstructed from original period drawings. Good to Know: Walking during this tour is mostly on paved ground, the walk up from Shukunegi to Ogi Folk Museum is slightly steep uphill.

Optional

Ogi Exploration on E Bike

3 hours

Discover Sado’s rugged coastline with ease on a guided E-bike tour. Starting just a short walk from the pier at Marine Plaza Ogi, you’ll set off on a scenic route that blends natural wonders with deep-rooted history. Your first highlight is Shukunegi, a unique preservation district where the dark-timbered homes of shipowners line the winding alleys. As you follow the coastal road, you’ll cross the striking Chojagabashi Bridge, a white-stone landmark offering breathtaking views of the horizon. The journey concludes with a stop at the serene Mushiya Cove, celebrated for its vibrant emerald waters, before a leisurely return ride to the plaza and a final walk back to your ship.

Day 9. Sakata

Sakata grew rich through trade, and you can still sense that merchant past in its streets and historic buildings. It has a calm, northern mood, with river and coastal light and a feeling of space. The city is grounded, practical, and quietly proud

Activities:

Included

Mt. Haguro Pilgrimage - 2,446 Steps

4 hours

Sakata offers an exceptional opportunity to experience one of Japan's most profound spiritual journeys on Mt. Haguro, the peak symbolizing the Present within the ancient Dewa Sanzan pilgrimage known as the Journey of Rebirth. This remarkable experience will immerse you in a mystical, 2.3km (1.5 miles) ascent through an awe-inspiring ancient cedar forest. The trail is steeped in history, with centuries-old shrines and temples creating an atmosphere of profound tranquility and deep spiritual resonance. The journey starts as you step from the modern realm of the parking lot and enter the sacred domain of Mt. Haguro through the Zuishinmon Gate, serving as the formal entrance for spiritual seekers since the 6th century. Following in the footsteps of centuries of pilgrims, you will undertake the formidable ascent of 2,446 weathered stone steps to the summit. Along the sacred path, you will encounter the magnificent Five-Story Pagoda (Goju-no-to), a designated National Treasure. Standing an impressive 29 meters tall, this distinctive architectural marvel dates back to its restoration in 1608 and serves as a stunning centerpiece amid the towering, ancient cedars. As you reach the summit, marvel at the Sanjin Gosaiden. This grand shrine complex is the central sanctuary where the deities of all three sacred mountains are jointly enshrined. The shrine represents the harmonious and unique fusion of Buddhism and Shinto, known as Shinbutsu-shugo, that has defined the spiritual character of this mountain for over fourteen centuries. Good to Know: This visit includes a climb of 2,446 steps. Because the path follows a continuous route, participants should be comfortable completing the full ascent, as there are no exit points along the way. Steps are uneven and might be slippery.

Optional

Sakata and Kitamae Merchants

3 hrs 15 min

Discover the fascinating world of Japan's historic maritime merchants in Sakata, a coastal city that flourished as a vital trading port during the Edo period. This cultural journey takes you through the legacy of the wealthy Kitamae merchants who shaped the region's prosperity through rice and safflower trade. Your cultural exploration begins at the renowned Homma Museum of Art, established by the influential Homma merchant family. This elegant museum houses an impressive collection of Japanese paintings, ceramics, and historical artifacts that showcase the refined taste and cultural patronage of Sakata's merchant elite. Next, visit the exclusive Sanno Club, a historic restaurant that served as a social hub for wealthy merchants and local dignitaries. This beautifully preserved Meiji-era building offers insights into the sophisticated lifestyle of Japan's business leaders, featuring elegant meeting rooms and traditional architecture that reflect the prosperity of the merchant class. The tour continues to the iconic Sankyo Rice Storehouse, a symbol of Sakata's agricultural wealth. These massive wooden structures, built in the early 20th century, once stored vast quantities of rice for distribution across Japan. Take a stroll along the street where the storehouses stand in take in the iconic scenery. Good to know: Guests will have to walk on uneven ground and negotiate about 50 steps during the tour.

Included

Mt. Haguro Pilgrimage - 600 Steps

3.5 hours

This tour is a simplified version of the tour to Mount Haguro giving guests the opportunity to connect with the mountain's sacred history by combining a partial ceremonial climb with a comfortable transfer to the summit. This experience focuses on Mt. Haguro, which symbolizes the Present in the ancient Dewa Sanzan pilgrimage known as the Journey of Rebirth. The spiritual journey commences as you enter the sacred domain through the Zuishinmon Gate, the traditional entrance for seekers since the 6th century. Here, you will follow a portion of the original pilgrim's path, undertaking a manageable ascent of 313 weathered stone steps. This initial trek leads through the mystical, ancient cedar forest directly to the magnificent Five-Story Pagoda (Goju-no-to), a designated National Treasure. This impressive structure stands 29 meters tall and dates back to its 1608 restoration, serving as a stunning centerpiece amid the towering, centuries-old cedars. After exploring the Pagoda, we will return to the base area and board a comfortable coach for a scenic, direct transfer to the top of Mt. Haguro. This ensures all participants reach the mountain's pinnacle with ease and safety. We will then continue the visit to Sanjin Gosaiden, this grand shrine complex is the central sanctuary where the deities of all three sacred Dewa mountains are jointly enshrined. The site beautifully represents the unique and harmonious blend of Buddhism and Shinto that has defined the spiritual character of this mountain for over fourteen centuries. Good to know: This tour includes a climb of 313 steps up and down. If you feel unable to complete the full ascent, you are welcome to rest midway and rejoin the group as they descend. Please note that stopping early means you will miss part of the visit and commentary.

Day 10. Aomori

Aomori is northern Honshu’s cultural centre, with deep roots that reach back to Japan’s ancient past. It also has a strong festival spirit and a link to the landscapes of the far north. The atmosphere here feels closer to Hokkaido than to the cities further south

Activities:

Included

Cultures of Aomori

3.5 hours

Leaving the port behind your first destination is one of Japan's most significant archaeological treasures. Sannai Maruyama was a large, stable village that flourished during the Jomon period, an era spanning from approximately 3,900 B.C. to 2,200 B.C. This prehistoric Japanese culture is distinguished by its intricate straw-rope pattern earthenware (known as Jomon), sophisticated settlements, and the use of large, pillar-supported longhouses. The site provides a captivating look at a society that thrived for millennia, demonstrating advanced community development, long-distance trade, and ritual practices. As you explore the meticulously preserved excavation sites and expertly replicated structures, you will gain insight into the daily life, architecture, and enduring legacy of this ancient community. The journey continues to Seiryuji Temple, a center of spiritual reverence and home to a truly awe-inspiring monument. Here, you will encounter the Showa Daibutsu, a monumental bronze statue recognized as the largest seated Buddha statue in Japan. Standing at an imposing 70 feet (21.3 meters) tall and weighing 220 tons, this magnificent work embodies the temple's serene atmosphere and scale of devotion. Complementing the Daibutsu is the temple's stunning five-story pagoda. Constructed entirely of local hiba wood, a highly prized evergreen and special product of the Aomori region, this architectural marvel is a testament to traditional Japanese craftsmanship. In Buddhist cosmology, the pagoda's five tiers symbolically represent the five elements of the universe: earth, water, fire, wind, and the void/sky, with the entire structure serving as a representation of the cosmos itself. Good to know: Guests need to negotiate uneven and gravel path at Sannai Maruyama Site. At Seiryuji temple walk from parking lot to the Great Buddha is about 500m (0.3 miles) uphill.

Optional

Castle City of Hirosaki

5 hrs 10 min

Discover the vibrant world of the Tsugaru-han Neputa Mura, a dedicated facility offering an all-season experience of the famous Hirosaki Neputa Festival. This summer festival, designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan, is rooted in the ancient tradition of Nemuri Nagashi, a practice intended to wash away the invisible "sleep demon" that caused drowsiness during the busy farming season. The Neputa Festival features a parade of gigantic festival floats lit up from the inside to show the colourful design based on scenes of historical events and myths among others. The museum also showcases local traditional craftwork as well as musical performances. Local craft products are available at the souvenir shop.Next, you will explore Hirosaki Castle, a National Historic Site; one of only 12 castles in all of Japan to maintain the original main donjon structure dating back from the samurai period. View the castle architecture up close as well as various other structures which constitute the castle premises. Presently, the castle is involved in a monumental, once-in-a-century project to repair its vital stone walls. This historic undertaking has required the entire three-story castle keep to be temporarily relocated several meters from its original position on the stone base to allow access for the repairs. Due to this ongoing refurbishment and the movement of the citadel, entry into the main keep is currently not possible. However, this provides a rare opportunity to witness an extraordinary chapter in the castle's history, observing the complex process of preserving a 400-year-old landmark for future generations. Good to Know: Guests are allowed entry to the garden of select residences, but indoor visit is not included.

Optional

Aomori City Walking

4.5 hours

Take advantage of the convenient location of the port and enjoy walk around central Aomori. Set off from the port and first visit Gyosai Center. A local fish market, where you can enjoy experiencing the local life of Aomori. If you wish, you can enjoy famous Nokke-don on your own, which literally means a rice bowl with toppings, it is a dish that allows you pick seafood toppings from the wide selection to place on top of rice. Walk back to Aomori Station area, and enter Hakkoda-maru Memorial ship. Before the opening of the Seikan Tunnel, ferries were the main mode of transport between Hokkaido and Honshu (mainland Japan). Today, the yellow ferry serves as a memorial to commemorate the ship’s long run. Inside the four-storey ship, you can tour the engine room, learn about the ferry’s encounters and more. A short walk from the memorial ship is A-FACTORY which is a market-style shopping center selling various local products made from locally grown apples, which is one of the primary specialties of Aomori. Take home a piece of Aomori's food culture. Right next to A-Factory is Nebuta Museum WA RASSE. Here, view the huge, Nebuta floats, depicting a mythical god which are the center of the annual Nebuta Festival which takes place in Aomori every August. Made of paper and wire frame, the floats on display took the streets in the festival from the previous year. Learn and get a feel of the energy of the festival. En route back to the port, visit ASPAM which is a triangle-shaped building after the image of the letter “A” from “Aomori”. It is a 76-meter (249 feet) tall building with 15 floors and is the central facility for local information about Aomori. The facility has a wide selection of shops and entertainment, such as local produce shop. Browse through some local products and purchase any to your liking. Good to know: This tour involves about 4km (2.5 miles) walk, mostly flat and paved. Some steps need to be negotiated inside Hakkodamaru Memorial Ship.

Day 11. Otaru

An important port on Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, Otaru retains original architecture and a strong sense of place. Restored warehouses along its canal, lined with Victorian street lamps, now house restaurants and small boutiques selling sake, music boxes, and renowned Otaru glass. The town’s trading story is rooted in herring, with traces still visible from Hokkaido’s first railway line terminal to the Herring Mansion on the outskirts, once owned by wealthy herring fishermen