14-NT Japan’s Crafts & Cherry Blossoms
from R178,694 pps
Cruise on board Seabourn Encore from Yokohama to Tokyo for 14 nights.
Discover the wonders of Japan on an unforgettable voyage that weaves together cultural treasures and breathtaking landscapes. Wander through Tokyo’s dynamic cityscape, explore Kyoto’s storied temples, and witness the serene beauty of cherry blossoms in full bloom. Along the way, engage with traditional artisans and age-old customs, all while indulging in Seabourn’s world-class luxury and attentive service. Experience the perfect balance of innovation and heritage on this extraordinary journey.
Cruise Itinerary
Yokohama Embark: 30 March 2026
Yokohama is an exciting city filled with Japanese charm and culture, and is less than 30 minutes’ train ride from Tokyo, so there’s an opportunity to sample two of Japan’s greatest urban centres.
Located directly south of the capital Tokyo and set beside the waters of Tokyo Bay, Japan’s second city is enveloped in the modern and forward-thinking ideology of the country, proving to be a fantastic base for those who wish to immerse themselves in the diverse identity of Japan.
There is no better way of capturing the culture of a new city than sampling the cuisine. A number of small and cosy seafood eateries, with kaki furai, or deep-fried oysters, being a particular favourite. Shabu-shabu restaurants are all-you-can-eat establishments allowing you to sample a vast array of Japanese food – perfect if you are unfamiliar with the local cuisine and would like to try lots of dishes. A number of fantastic sushi bars serve the very best of Japan’s most iconic culinary treat.
Kyoto (Kobe) In Port: 1 April 2026
Kobe is the starting point for excursions to the cultural fountainheads of Classical Japan. Ride the bullet train to the classical pavilions and castles of Kyoto. Until 1868, Kyoto was the capital of Japan, filled with elegant timber buildings and, perhaps more than any other Japanese city, imbued with Kami, the divine spirit. You'll sense it everywhere, for there are hundreds of Shinto shrines and over a thousand Buddhist temples.
Kyoto (Kobe) In Port: 2 April 2026
Kobe is the starting point for excursions to the cultural fountainheads of Classical Japan. Ride the bullet train to the classical pavilions and castles of Kyoto. Until 1868, Kyoto was the capital of Japan, filled with elegant timber buildings and, perhaps more than any other Japanese city, imbued with Kami, the divine spirit. You'll sense it everywhere, for there are hundreds of Shinto shrines and over a thousand Buddhist temples.
Hiroshima In Port: 4 April 2026
Containing moving peace monuments to the end of World War II, Hiroshima is a modern city which has grown from the destruction, forward-looking, yet with deeply traditional roots. It is an immensely fascinating city. There is more to discover in Hiroshima than its evocative Atomic Bomb Dome - there's the landscaped Shukkeien Garden, the Mazda Museum and okonomiyaki, a batter and cabbage pancake topped with octopus, shrimp or pork.
Kanmon Strait Cruise by: 5 April 2026
A visit to Kanmon Straits is an opportunity to experience one of the Japan's most incredible waterways. This expansive channel connects two of Japan's four main islands, Honshu and Kyushu. The best views of the surrounding scenery are from above. Hop on a helicopter ride or visit Mt. Hinoyama in Shimonoseki on the north side of the strait.
Fukuoaka, Japan In Port: 5 April 2026
Fukuoka is the capital of the province of the same name. It sits on the north shore pf Kyushu, the most southerly of Japan's islands, home to beaches, modern malls and ancient temples.
Busan, South Korea In Port: 6 April 2026
South Korea's second largest city after Seoul, Busan likes its attractions to be gargantuan! Head to the world's largest department store, Centum City, or spend the day relaxing on Haeundae Beach Korea's largest. If a more cultural experience beckons, admire the pagodas, gates, temple halls, and shrines of Beomeosa Temple.
Nagasaki In Port: 8 April 2026
On Nagasaki cruises you can look forward to rich cosmopolitan atmosphere and the beautiful seaside scenery.Standing over the Nakashima River is Japans first Chinese-style stone bridge, the Spectacle Bridge, which reflects as ovals on the surface of the water. It is said that bridges here were only built on roads that led to temples, ornate structures that still adorn many of the streets.Etched in the memory of Nagasaki is the 1945 atomic bomb that destroyed much of the city. Today it still lingers in poignant reminders, such as Peace Park and the A-Bomb Museum, all part of our Nagasaki cruise shore excursions.
Kagoshima In Port: 8 April 2026
Located on the southern tip of Kyushu, Kagoshima provides spectacular scenery - from rugged mountains and rivers to bubbling hot springs, as well as a wide variety of flora and fauna.
Mount Sakurajima dominates the skyline above Kagoshima City and is said to change its colours seven times during the course of a day. A 15 minute ferry ride will take you to Sakurajima Island where you can view the volcano’s vast lava fields that were caused by three major past eruptions. The most violent eruption occurred in 1914 when a lava flow of over three billion tonnes destroyed numerous villages.
Miyazaki In Port: 9 April 2026
Uncover the charm of Japan’s southern coast when you visit Hososhima, a gateway to the scenic wonders and cultural richness of Miyazaki. Explore rugged coastal cliffs, serene shrines, and lush subtropical landscapes that tell stories of ancient mythology. Visit the famed Udo Shrine, dramatically set in a seaside cave, or stroll through vibrant local markets offering fresh seafood and regional delicacies. Whether you're drawn to spiritual heritage, natural beauty, or warm local hospitality, Hososhima offers a uniquely authentic slice of Japan—all in a day.
Toba In Port: 11 April 2026
Nestled along the serene shores of Ise Bay, Toba invites you to experience Japan’s deep-rooted connection to the sea. Famed as the home of the legendary Ama divers—women who free-dive for pearls and seafood—this coastal town offers a unique glimpse into centuries-old maritime traditions. Explore the fascinating Mikimoto Pearl Island, discover the spiritual serenity of nearby Ise Grand Shrine, or savour fresh seafood delicacies in charming local markets. Toba is a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural legacy, and oceanic wonder—an enriching stop on your journey through Japan.
Mount Fuji (Shimizu), Japan In Port: 12 April 2026
In the shadow of Mount Fuji, Shimizu is one of the most beautiful ports in Japan. Walk through the pine groves of Miho, home to a 650-year-old Japanese black pine, or enjoy spectacular views of Mount Fuji from the lush, forested hill of Nihondaira.
Tokyo Disembark: 13 April 2026
The second largest city in Japan is Yokohama, a rapidly developing and exciting city filled with Japanese charm and culture. In 1854 Yokohama became the first port opened to foreign trade in the country so there is an interesting maritime and international flavour to the city. It is one of the most accessible cities in Japan and is less than half an hour from Tokyo by train. You will find much to do and see during your Yokohama cruise, from discovering landmarks and exploring museums to sampling tasty Japanese cuisine and shopping till you drop in one of the city’s expansive malls.
Seabourn EncoreSeabourn
Seabourn Encore
Seabourn Encore is as strikingly beautiful and as excitingly innovative as any Seabourn has ever debuted. She crowns a fleet that is already the newest, most modern and most acclaimed in the ultra-luxury segment. Modelled on the award-winning trio of ships introduced with Seabourn Odyssey, Seabourn Encore represents another welcome stage in the evolution of small-ship cruising, which Seabourn pioneered and has consistently expanded and enriched.
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