Japan & South Korea In Depth

Tokyo, Japan’s busy capital, mixes the ultramodern and the traditional, from neon-lit skyscrapers to historic temples. The opulent Meiji Shinto Shrine is known for its towering gate and surrounding woods. The Imperial Palace sits amid large public gardens. The city’s many museums offer exhibits ranging from classical art (in the Tokyo National Museum) to a reconstructed kabuki theater (in the Edo-Tokyo Museum)

Sprawling, semi-rural Shimizu Ward is dominated by forested coastal mountains, with hiking trails and ropeway rides to dramatic viewpoints above Suruga Bay. Miho Beach Park is popular for swimming and water sports in summer, and there are baseball and soccer fields nearby, plus an aquarium at the Marine Science Center. Busy fisheries supply sushi bars and seafood markets with local specialties like sakura shrimp

Awaken today in the pretty, pearlescent Toba on the Shima Peninsula in Mie Prefecture. This small city is enrobed by the Ise-Shima National Park and rotates through a seasonal spectrum of colours from the soft pink of cherry blossoms in spring, to the vivid greens of summer vegetation, and the red-and-gold hues of autumn. Toba is perhaps best-known for its oyster and pearling industries, particularly its female pearl divers, or ‘ama’.

Discover more about this tradition on Mikimoto Pearl Island, where you can learn all about the cultivation of pearls in the museum, watch ama demonstrations, and shop for exquisite mementos.

Spend another indulgent evening on board Scenic Eclipse watching the ocean darken with nightfall as you enjoy a cocktail at the Observation Deck or Panorama Bar.

Arrive this morning in the harbour city of Kobe on the island of Honshu. Compact and condensed between the sea and the Rokko mountain range, Kobe has a long history of maritime trade. Yet, despite its centuries-old role as a significant port, beautiful Kobe is a modern-looking city, having been completely rebuilt following a devastating earthquake in 1995. You may choose to explore on your own to learn more about this event at the Earthquake Museum.

If you prefer to spend the afternoon in the ultra-luxury of your Discovery Yacht, retreat for a touch of tranquillity at the expansive Senses Spa and indulge in a massage or treatment^, or refresh with a haircut at the salon.

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. Choose to spend your day strolling immaculately manicured gardens, admiring historic architecture or contemplating thought-provoking art.

Okayama is home to the stunning Korakuen Garden, which was commissioned by a feudal lord in 1687 as a place to receive guests. Styled in the traditional Japanese aesthetic with elegant ponds, bridges and sculptural plants, the Korakuen is ranked as one of the top three landscaped gardens in Japan. It sits across the Asahi River from Okayama Castle; dubbed ‘Crow Castle’ due to its black exterior, visitors can tour the historical exhibits here and take a bizen-yaki pottery class in the castle park studio.

Return to your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht this evening and unwind with a cocktail in one of the all-inclusive nine bars and lounges.

Overnight you will have arrived at Takamatsu, the capital of Kagawa. Gazing upon the Seto Inland Sea, the port of Takamatsu is the gateway to the sea’s many stunning islands. From here you can travel along the longest road bridge in the world, the Seto Ohashi Bridge. A spectacular feat of engineering, the bridge lays out stunning views of this beautiful archipelago.

Explore the ruins of the waterfront Takamatsu Castle, wander the tranquil Ritsurin Koen garden, built by feudal lords in the Edo Period, and enjoy the local specialty of ‘sanuki udon’ noodles, famed for its delightful texture.

With an overnight stay in Takamatsu, you have ample opportunity to explore.

Wake this morning to vibrant Takamatsu beckoning you from the sophisticated spaces of Scenic Eclipse.

The flat-topped mountain of Yashima was the site of an important battle between rival clans in the 12th century. Yashima’s lofty vantage also treats visitors to breathtaking panoramic vistas and inspires reverence with a traditional temple.

Closeby is the picturesque island of Ogijima. This small but beautiful slip of land will captivate with its serenity. You may have the opportunity to walk to the lighthouse and explore the labyrinthine laneways of the traditional village. Ogijima’s sister island, Megijima is also accessed by a ferry from Takamatsu. The forested mountains of the island are enshrined in folklore and nicknamed ‘Ogre Island’ on account of a local legend. Stroll the atmospheric village, take in the sea air, and glimpse the Seto Inland Sea from the mountaintop.

Arriving into port this morning, your day may begin with a moment of reflection on a visit to Hiroshima. Perhaps one of the most significant sites of modern warfare, this city ravaged by the atomic bomb during World War II has risen to become a living symbol of peace and rebirth. Enrobed in sombre history, inspiring perspective, and striking natural beauty, Hiroshima is a destination you will long remember. Visit the Peace Memorial Park and World Heritage listed Atomic Bomb Dome, where you can absorb the importance of Hiroshima’s history and admire the city’s determination to endure and overcome.

Return aboard in time for a long, leisurely lunch at one of the refined and relaxed eateries, such as Azure Bar & Café or the Yacht Club, as you journey toward the small island of Miyajima this afternoon. Well-loved for its serene, water hemmed views, Miyajima (which translates to ‘Shrine Island’ in Japanese) is known for its Itsukushima shrine and enormous torii gate, which, at high tide, appears to float above the water.

Today is yours to do as much or as little as you want. Perhaps you’d like to take things slowly, starting with breakfast brought to your suite by your private butler, enjoyed on the verandah as you admire the ocean. Or you could start the day with an invigorating workout in the gym or a class in the Yoga & Pilates studio.

Take some time to explore the ship, from the Sky Bar and outdoor pool on Deck 10 to the tranquil and expansive 550m2 Senses Spa on Deck 6 with its steam rooms, saunas and plunge pool. Stop for a coffee or a cocktail at one of the nine bars and lounges on board or curl up with a good book in the library of the Observation Lounge. Check the daily program to see what lectures or discussions the Discovery Team are running and learn more about upcoming ports or activities on offer.

This evening, make a reservation for an all-inclusive private dining experience at authentic teppanyaki grill Night Market @ Koko’s, or perhaps relish incredibly fresh seafood at Elements.

This morning, savour breakfast to your exact taste delivered by your butler to your private 6-star suite. Admire the South Korean port of Sokcho approaching from your verandah and start planning the day ahead. A quaint fishing town, Sokcho was part of North Korea until the end of the Korean War in 1945. Today, its pretty beach and location as the gateway to Seoraksan National Park make it a lively tourist hub.

Incredibly fresh seafood is another huge attraction here. As you stroll around the city, perhaps sample locally caught specialties at the Sokcho Central Market, where you can enjoy the day’s catch alongside other Korean favourites.

To take in the unrelenting beauty of the landscape, make your way to the Lighthouse Observatory or head to the Seoraksan National Park. Inhale the fresh forest air and listen to the tranquil song of gently flowing rivers.

As the lights of Sokcho fade into the distance, find the perfect spot on the Observation Terrace to farewell your first South Korean port with a glass of Champagne or your favourite cocktail in hand.

Today your journey reveals the artful and natural beauty of P’ohang on the eastern side of the Yongil Gulf in South Korea. Hwanho Park has an incredible rollercoaster-like Space Walk, a walkable sculpture that lays out a path of fantastic, mind-bending loops and bestows walkers with photogenic views of the harbour and city.

Deep dive into P’ohang’s history as a steel-making city with a roam through the Museum of Steel Art. Be sure to snap a photo of the remarkable The Hand of Mutual Shake bronze sculpture at Homigot Sunrise Plaza, which was created in 1999 at the eastern tip of the Korean Peninsula.

Return to exchange stories of the day with your fellow Scenic Eclipse guests over a drink in the Scenic Lounge Bar, before relishing a perfectly refined French meal at Lumière.

Let the day unfurl in relaxation as you awake in your 6-Star ultra-luxury suite and choose one of the many incredible experiences on board your Discovery Yacht. As you sail toward the South Korean port of Busan, spend the morning rejuvenating in the expansive Senses Spa, partake in an Aerial Yoga class, unwind on the Senses Pool Deck or simply catch up on world events with a newspaper.

Arriving in Busan in time for lunch, disembark to revel in the seaside city’s urban beaches, laidback atmosphere and tempting street food culture. As South Korea’s second-largest city, Busan has a vibrant, international energy that blends contemporary and traditional life

Tonight, you may choose to spend the evening in the privacy of your spacious ultra-luxury suite or enjoying your Discovery Yacht’s entertainment program in the state-of-the-art theatre.

This morning you will again greet the Land of the Rising Sun as you arrive early at the beautiful city of Nagasaki on the island of Kyushu.

While Nagasaki has a long and prosperous history of international trade, its modern history has largely been overshadowed by World War II. The second site to suffer the catastrophic effects of the atomic bomb, the city has been rebuilt and reforged with resilience and optimism.

Unravel that journey of rebirth at one of the many moving museums and memorials, such as Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum, Peace Park, and National Peace Memorial Hall. You’ll also revel in a deeper past at the Nagasaki Museum of History and Culture and the Suwa-jinja shrine.

Later this afternoon, enjoy a cocktail from the Sky Bar on Deck 10 as we sail under the Megami Bridge. Tonight Scenic Eclipse remains in Nagasaki before sailing to Hashima Island in the morning.

This morning, glimpse the passing sea while wrapped in the unparalleled comfort of Scenic’s signature Slumber Bed as we journey to Hashima Island. Relish breakfast on board before exploring this intriguing destination.

Dubbed ‘Gunkanjima’, meaning ‘battleship island’, due to its shape, this World Heritage-listed site is, in fact, a historic coal mine. Now uninhabited, the small 480-metre-long and 150-metre-wide island was once home to 5,000 people, making it the most densely populated area ever recorded. Abandoned in 1974, the island’s structures have since deteriorated, imbuing it with a haunting atmosphere.

After touring the island, return to the ultra-luxury of your Discovery Yacht for an afternoon of indulgent relaxation in a cabana by the Scandinavian-inspired vitality pools. Come evening, relish an all-inclusive dining experience in one of the up to 10 world-class options on board Scenic Eclipse.

Relish a morning coffee on your private verandah as you admire the dramatic landscape of Kagoshima on your journey toward the city. At the southern tip of Kyushu, Mount Sakurajima volcano rises dramatically from the ocean, keeping watch over Kagoshima and painting a handsome and attention-stealing backdrop.

Unearth the feudal history and explore the palm-lined streets of Kagoshima or opt to spend the day on board, appreciating the stunning aspects of Sakurajima from the elegant Sky Bar. Take in the sun in a secluded cabana, revive with a dip in the Vitality Pool, and sip your favourite cocktail from the bar.

Take advantage of Scenic Eclipse’s unique open bridge policy to appreciate the sunrise alongside the crew, enjoying unrivalled access to the ship’s ultimate viewing area. Learn about the supreme technical abilities of The World’s First Discovery YachtTM as you approach Kochi on Shikoku Island.

A place to unearth traditional Japanese culture, the small city of Kochi is a path less travelled for many, making it ripe for your discovery. Walk the streets downtown to observe daily life; explore Kochi Castle; visit Chikurinji Temple at Godaisan Mountain; or perhaps stroll the promenade at Katsurahama Beach.

Return to your Discovery Yacht and settle into one of the nine bars and lounges on board, where you might try a new premium wine from the extensive and elegant list curated by Scenic’s Master of Wine. Or toast another day of wonder in the singular luxury of your exquisitely appointed suite with a beverage from the all-inclusive minibar.

Celebrate the final day of your inspiring voyage with a Champagne breakfast on your elegant verandah. Today’s journey uncovers the thrilling city of Osaka, Japan’s third-largest metropolis after Tokyo and Yokohama.

At once spirited and relaxed, Osaka is a dynamic city best loved for its culinary excellence, exuberant nightlife and vibrant locals. Wander the busy streets to pull the thread of what makes this exciting hub so absorbing, then visit Osaka Castle to marvel at the city’s deep history. Spend the afternoon visiting the beautiful Sumiyoshi Taisha Shinto shrine, dedicated to sea-faring deities, and historic Shitennoji, which is one of Japan’s oldest temples.

As evening envelops the city, encounter Osaka’s bustling nightlife. Or return to the elevated indulgence of Scenic Eclipse to share a meal with your new friends on your last night on board.

You’ll disembark Scenic Eclipse after breakfast. Farewell the crew and fellow guests, taking with you memories of a truly unforgettable ultra-luxury experience on board The World’s First Discovery