Ultra-luxury cruise operator Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours is reporting strong interest in its first-ever dedicated Japan voyages on board Scenic Eclipse for 2023 as guests enjoy the opportunity to lift the veil on the nation’s fascinating culture.
Best known for its exploration cruises to the Arctic and Antarctic regions, Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours have put together an immersive Japanese programme rich in nature, history and tradition. Guests will visit the region’s bustling metropolises such as Tokyo and Kyoto, as well as peaceful places like Hachinohe’s enchanting coastline and the natural limestone sculptures of Akiyoshidai Quasi-National Park. The variety of the itineraries allow guests to immerse themselves in the diversity of this unique country.
“This is our debut Japan season and, so far, the response has been excellent”, said Nichola Absalom, director of global brand and marketing at Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours. “Because our ultra-luxury discovery yacht, Scenic Eclipse, is limited to just 220 guests, we are able to access ports and regions that open up a whole range of incredible experiences.
“Visiting Japan independently can seem daunting but with the knowledge and expertise of our on-board crew, the carefully balanced itineraries, and the six-star luxury of Scenic Eclipse, you can relax and enjoy the experience.
“We have handpicked a selection of itineraries that showcase the very different sides of the country; from an expedition voyage visiting the remote volcanic islands around the Pacific Ring of Fire, perfect for those interested in nature and scenery, to the culturally enriched voyages along the east and west coasts of Japan, with a curated programme of excursions and adventures led by experts in their field.
“Cruising is the perfect way to see the best of Japan. With its long coastlines, sophisticated infrastructure and 25 UNESCO Sites that can be reached from the coast. Whether you want to visit Kyoto’s Golden Temple, learn about Geisha life, and take part in a tea ceremony, visit Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park, hike the Mt Esan volcano or see the silver mines of Sado Island, a voyage on board Scenic Eclipse has an impressive portfolio of included excursions as part of its Freechoice and Enrich programmes.”
On-board guests can enjoy up to 10 included dining experiences including both western and Asian fusion with a dedicated sushi bar, night market at Koko’s with an authentic Teppanyaki grill, and fine dining at Lumiere’s with its elegant champagne bar.
Itineraries now available with Super Early bird fares with savings up to 20 per cent include:
12-day Cultural Wonders of Japan
This sailing takes guests from Otaru to Seoul (South Korea) visiting some of the most incredible places Japan has to offer, including Hakodate, Aomori, Sado Island, Kanazawa, Maizuru, Sakaiminato, Hagi (all Japan) and Busan (South Korea).
Highlights of the itinerary include:
- Discover the secrets of the ancient Samurai and explore Aomori, which holds one of the world’s largest and best-preserved archaeological sites.
- Spend the evening in an historical building overlooking the Kanazawa Castle, and experience a Kagami-biraki, a ceremony unique to Japan which sees the lid of a round Sake barrel broken open with a wooden spoon before the Sake, a Japanese alcoholic delicacy, is enjoyed by all.
- Visit the volcanic heights of Mount Daisen, known locally as ‘mini-Fuji’, and explore the streets of Sakaiminato, which inspired legendary manga artist, Shigeru Mizuki.
- View the Grand Shine of Izumo, one of Japan’s most important shrines.
Prices start from £10,015, departing on 3 June 2023.
15-day Natural Wonders of Japan
Sail up the east coast of Japan, seeing the contrast between futuristic Tokyo, bright with neon, and the wild remote nature of Hokkaido, considered Japan’s last frontier. Along the way, learn of the history of the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes.
Itinerary highlights include:
Nimble exploration yacht Scenic Eclipse can access Shimizu, considered one of Japan’s most beautiful ports that dates back to the Nara Period (710-784). Shimizu is blessed with stunning natural scenery such as the Shiraito Falls flowing in thin white streams from the foothills of Mount Fuji, and rich Japanese culture and history reflected throughout the bright red buildings and gold accents.
Uncover Samurai history in Sendai, the ‘Green City by the Sea’. Here, you’ll learn more of Date Masamune, one of Japan’s most powerful feudal lords in the 1600s, his pure black outfits were the inspiration behind Darth Vader’s armour.
Spot the graceful, red-crowned crane in Kushiro, found in Japan’s largest marshland where the Scenic Discovery Team will walk you through the pristine wildlife habitats.
Prices start from £11,557, departing on 30 June 2023.
Scenic Eclipse is a discovery yacht designed to deliver the ultimate six-star ultra-luxury cruise experience. After each day’s excursion and exploration, guests are welcomed back to the ship to savour culinary delights at one of the 10 onboard dining experiences. The spa and dedicated wellbeing space, as well as bars and lounges, ensure all guests can enjoy uninterrupted ultra-luxury at every moment on this once-in-a-lifetime cruise.
To truly make the most of your Scenic Eclipse experience, you can combine two cruises together or combine with one of Scenic’s land journeys for the ultimate experience. Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours has all the options available to help you tailor your trip to the depth and length you require to enable you to explore and enjoy the delights of your destination to the full.
For more information or to book, visit sceniceclipse.com or contact your local travel agent.
