Tokyo to Vancouver Explorer

Yokohama is the central gateway to exploring Tokyo, a once-humble fishing village that is now one of the world’s biggest, most densely populated cities. You’ll find an eclectic mix of traditional shrines and soaring skyscrapers lining these neon-lit streets. Walk the Rainbow Bridge over Tokyo Bay alongside the Yurikamome Rail Line, a futuristic, operatorless train system. Then, see old Tokyo at the Imperial Palace, an Edo Castle surrounded by moats and gardens perfect for strolling. Cruise to Tokyo and head to iconic Sensoji Buddhist Temple and pass below the massive red paper lantern of the Thunder Gate. Then, unwind in Yoyogi Park, a literal forest in the heart of the city, complete with Zen gardens and a gingko tree forest.

Your cruise begins today! A shared transfer will take you from your hotel to the port.

Hakodate overflows with historic architecture and steamy hot springs . Located along Hokkaido’s southwestern tip, it’s the perfect spot to begin exploring this island’s unique history and culture during your vacation. Cruise to Hakodate and start your day at the morning Hakodate-Asaichi, or Morning Market, and tuck into a hearty kaisendon, a bowl of ultra-fresh sashimi fish over steamed rice. Then, relax with a soak in the Yunokawa hot springs on Hakodate’s outskirts, or check out Goryokaku Fort — the nearby tower lets you take in a bird’s-eye view of the star-shaped design surrounded by a moat. And don’t leave without taking in the million-dollar views of the city from atop Mt. Hakodate.

Aomori is a relatively unexplored city located north of Honshu, Japan’s main island. Visit the Hirosaki Castle during the Cherry Blossom Festival during the springtime. In summer, you can enjoy the spectacular Nebuta Matsuri festival or explore the deep green virgin beech forests. Fall is great for hiking along the Oirase Gorge river or heading to Aoni Onsen, a remote hot spring resort lit only by gas lanterns. If you cruise to Aomori during the winter, you can admire the snow-covered trees, try skiing or snowboarding, or visit one of the city’s museums. End your visit to Aomori, Japan with some delicious seafood and local sake.

The capital of Hokkaido, Sapporo is a gateway to Japan’s northern island of rugged mountains, hot springs and endless winter adventures. Cruise through Odori Park, an oasis that hosts the world-famous Snow Festival in winter, a lilac festival in spring and a beer festival in summer. Learn about Hokkaido’s frontier history at Former Hokkaido Government Office, an exquisite example of American neo-Baroque architecture dating back to 1888. Cruise to Sapporo to immerse yourself in Japanese culture, soak your bones in the steamy springs of Jozankei, and feast on Sapporo’s famous hearty ramen noodle soup defined by salty miso, a fermented soya bean paste.

The International Date Line is the meridian that separates two consecutive calendar days. Of course, since the line is mainly across open ocean, you cant see it. But without the IDL, if you cruised west around the planet youd discover that when you returned home, it would seem as though an extra day had passed. This situation actually happened to Magellans crew when they returned home after their circumnavigation of the earth. If your cruise should take you across this imaginary line, our staff will let you know the exact time one day turns into another – just in case you want to celebrate.

Ranked in the world’s top 5 cities for quality of life, on a clear day you’ll see as far as distant Mount Baker. Find nirvana amongst the ferns and lofty cedars in Stanley Park, taste oysters in Granville Island market, and explore historic Gastown.

Vancouver has plenty to offer beyond its most famous spots. For stunning views and outdoor adventure, Grouse Mountain is a must—perfect for hiking in summer or skiing in winter. Dive into local history and Indigenous culture at the Museum of Anthropology at UBC, which features remarkable First Nations art and architecture. For a peaceful escape, visit the VanDusen Botanical Garden, where beautifully landscaped gardens and themed areas provide a tranquil retreat in the heart of the city.

Your holiday finishes up today in Vancouver. Why not look at extending your stay by adding on some extra nights?