All Inclusive Best of Japan

Your Japanese adventure begins in Tokyo – and late March is one of the finest times to be here. The cherry blossoms are at or approaching their peak, the parks and riverside walks transformed into tunnels of pink and white. Check into your 4-star hotel and let the city draw you in – the Meguro River, Shinjuku Gyoen and Ueno Park are all extraordinary at this time of year.

A second full day in one of the world’s great cities in one of its most beautiful seasons. The Tsukiji outer market, the serenity of the Meiji Shrine, the panoramic views from the Tokyo Skytree – or simply more of whatever Tokyo offered you yesterday. Tonight, a last dinner in the city before the ship awaits.

Departs 4:30 PM
Your private transfer delivers you to Yokohama this afternoon, where Celebrity Millennium is waiting. Board, settle in and raise a glass as she departs at 4:30 PM – Tokyo Bay opening up ahead as the journey begins.

A first, peaceful day at sea as Celebrity Millennium heads southwest toward Osaka. The spa, the pool deck, the restaurants – a perfect introduction to life aboard before Kyoto’s extraordinary ports appear tomorrow.

Arrives 8:00 AM
The ship arrives into Osaka – gateway to Kyoto, Japan’s ancient imperial capital. Two days here during peak cherry blossom season is one of the great privileges of this itinerary. Today, the unmissable highlights: Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousands of vermilion torii gates, the gold-leaf perfection of Kinkaku-ji reflected in its mirror pond, the bamboo groves of Arashiyama – all framed in the extraordinary spring blossom that makes late March in Kyoto unlike anywhere else on earth.

Departs 6:00 PM
A second full day to go deeper into Kyoto’s quieter, more contemplative character – the neighbourhood temples that appear without fanfare on side streets, the covered markets of Nishiki, the ancient machiya townhouse cafes of Gion. Or spend the day in Osaka, where the castle gardens are spectacular in blossom season. With departure at 6:00 PM, the day is entirely yours.

Arrives 8:00 AM – Departs 5:00 PM
Kochi is Japan without the crowds – and all the better for it. The relaxed capital of Shikoku Island rewards slow travel. The historic Kochi Castle, dating to the 1600s, is one of Japan’s few original remaining fortresses. Nine hours ashore at your own pace – the region’s signature katsuo no tataki, lightly seared bonito with garlic and ginger, is reason enough to come ashore.

Living like a local is the best way to experience Kochi. No rushing or speeding between excursions is necessary here. Shopping at Sunday Market is a must-do activity for weekenders looking to experience fresh produce and local goods in Kochi, plus there’s an entire shopping district along Harimayabashi Street where travelers can purchase clothing, handcrafted goods, and Japanese artwork. Take a break to see penguins and other marine species at the aquarium on Katsurahama Beach, then stop in at a restaurant to try the region’s signature katsuo no tataki, broiled bonito fish served with onion and garlic. While you’re on an Asia cruise, the small-town vibe of Kochi will make you feel right at home.

A restful day at sea as the ship crosses the Korea Strait toward Busan. The spa, the pool, a long lunch – a welcome pause between two outstanding runs of ports.

Arrives 7:00 AM – Departs 5:00 PM
Busan is South Korea’s second city and one of the most vibrant port cities in Asia. Its dramatic setting – where steep hills plunge directly into the sea – gives it a character entirely distinct from Seoul. The ancient Beomeo-sa Temple, Gamcheon Culture Village’s labyrinth of pastel-painted houses, and the Jagalchi fish market – an experience for every sense. Ten hours to discover it all.

Historically rich Nagasaki features beautiful seaside scenery and fabulous nighttime views from its mountain slopes. Secluded hot springs, fascinating museums, and ornate temples live side by side in this exciting city. Ten natural parks grace the area, and unique festivals can be experienced throughout the year. Walk through streets influenced by both Chinese and European cultures in fascinating Nagasaki.

Sunny Kagoshima lives in the shadow of Sakurajima, an active volcano that last erupted in 2016. Kagoshima balances an air of mystery with a seaside approachability thanks to its location in Southern Japan along the coast and proximity to Sakurajima. In addition to being the capital of the Kagoshima Prefecture in Japan, the city is home to ancient castles and traditional Japanese Gardens that delight locals and visitors alike.

Vacationers on an Asia cruise to Kagoshima, Japan can relax at Ibusuki Onsen, the local hot springs, while adventurous travelers will be awed by the volcano’s peaks after a hike to one of the many observation points. There are plenty of experiences for foodies in Kagoshima, too, like taking a tour of Shochu Brewery for sake tastings or enjoying a traditional Japanese tea ceremony.

A final sea day before the last remarkable port of call. The restaurants, the spa, the open deck as Celebrity Millennium makes her way north along the Japanese coast.

Arrives 7:00 AM – Departs 6:00 PM
On a clear April morning, Mt Fuji is extraordinary – perfectly conical, the snow line still high, rising above a landscape still touched by the last of the spring blossom. Eleven hours ashore opens up the Fuji Five Lakes region for closer views, the ancient Miho no Matsubara pine grove, or simply the pleasure of standing on deck as the ship docks and letting the moment happen.

Arrives 8:00 AM
Celebrity Millennium returns to Tokyo in the early morning – the city’s skyline appearing on the horizon as 12 extraordinary nights at sea draw to a close. For those with time before flying home, the blossoms may still be lingering – Tokyo always rewards one last wander.

Disembark this morning and farewell Celebrity Millennium. Japan in cherry blossom season leaves a deep and lasting impression – and most visitors start planning their return before they have even left.