Japan Cruise

LAND TOUR PORTION

Monday, October 3: Depart USA
We depart home for our overnight flight to Japan to begin our amazing adventure.

Tuesday, October 4: Arrive in Japan
On this evening, we will arrive in Osaka and head to magical Kyoto. Kyoto Hotel Okura is our home for the next 3 nights.

Wednesday, October 5: Kyoto
We have a full day at leisure to relax and prepare for our next 14 exciting days!

Thursday, October 6: Kyoto
Today you will sightsee to some of Kyoto’s greatest attractions — including stunning 410-year-old Nijō Castle, site of two lavish palaces and several beautiful gardens, and the stunning Sanju Sangendo shrine. Savor lunch at a local restaurant followed by the unforgettable Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion) and Arashiyama strolling. Dine in a traditional Japanese restaurant with a Maiko show, sure to be a highlight. (B,L,D)

Friday, October 7: Tokyo
Head to Nara to visit the impressive Todaiji Temple (Great Buddha) and breathtaking Kasuga Taisha Shrine before boarding the famous bullet train to Tokyo for an evening at leisure. Enjoy dinner at the hotel’s restaurant. For three nights we will stay at the Grand Nikko Daiba Hotel Tokyo. (B,L,D)

Saturday, October 8: Tokyo
This is Tokyo, one of the most thrilling cities on earth. An introductory sightseeing tour takes you to the Meiji Shrine, Sensoji Temple and Nakamise Shopping Street, followed by a drive through the iconic Ginza District. The afternoon and evening are yours to take in even more of Tokyo’s countless attractions at your own pace. (B)

Sunday, October 9: Tokyo
Embark on a captivating journey to Hakone, a destination renowned for its scenic beauty and cultural attractions. Immerse yourself in the world of art at the Hakone Open Air Museum. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before you embark on a picturesque cruise across Lake Ashi, taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Your journey to Togendai promises awe-inspiring landscapes. Ascend to new heights aboard the Hakone Ropeway, offering panoramic vistas of the region. Your destination: Owakudani Station, where adventure awaits. Explore the Owakudani Valley at your own pace. Descend from Owakudani Station via the Hakone Ropeway, reveling in the changing landscapes as you make your way to Souunzan Station. As your day in Hakone draws to a close, board your transfer for a leisurely drive back to Tokyo. (B,L)

Monday, October 10: Yokohama
After breakfast, visit Tokyo Skytree Tembo Deck at 1,148 feet, for a remarkable city skyline view before joining the Diamond Princess.  We set sail at 4pm. (B,L,D)

***CONTINUE BELOW ON OCTOBER 11 FOR THE CRUISE.

CRUISE PORTION

Saturday, October 8: Depart USA
Depart home for the overnight flight for your Japan cruise.

Sunday, October 9: Arrive in Japan
Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel for leisure time and overnight in Yokohama. 

Monday, October 10: Yokohama
After breakfast, transfer to the Diamond Princess for our exciting upcoming cruise, we set sail at 4pm. (B,L,D)

***EVERYONE (CRUISETOUR PEOPLE AND CRUISE ONLY PEOPLE) COMES TOGETHER FROM HERE ON.

Tuesday, October 11: At Sea
Relax at sea this day. Take time to explore the many onboard activities. From cooking demonstrations to dance classes, trivia contests and more, you are sure to find something entertaining to do. Or if you prefer, enjoy the sights and relax with a good book or watch a movie under the stars. (B,L,D)

Wednesday, October 12: Akita
A key city in the Tohoku region since medieval times, Akita was once a castle town of the Satake clan, but today is a vibrant, prosperous city that seamlessly honors its past but embraces its young energetic spirit. Noted for its art community, there are several fine museums to explore, the Akita City Folklore Museum and the Kakunodate Samurai District, a living museum that showcases the samurai way of life. Surrounding the city, fertile farmland and rice fields produce some of the best sake in the country and nature lovers won't know which way to turn – including majestic mountain ranges. (B,L,D)

Thursday, October 13: Toyama (Fushiki)
Located in the heart of coastal Japan, Toyama welcomes visitors with dramatic scenery, colorful crafts and engaging local sites. Popular attractions include the Zuiryuji Temple of elegant architecture, trolley train into the Kurobe Gorge, and the UNESCO World Heritage Gokayama Villages. Or go to Nosaku where you can make your own sake cup out of tin with the original craft casting method. Afterwards, take your cup to the Wakatsuru Sake and Whiskey distillery and have a taste of the Toyama original beverage. (B,L,D)

Friday, October 14: Tsuruga
The serene calm of this largest city in the Wakasa region of Japan is one steeped in culture and poetic tales. The plethora of artisan crafts from lacquerware to washi (Japanese paper) keep the traditions of cultural beauty alive today. The area is home to, where white-sand beaches fringe magnificent pines, and five sparkling, small lakes with colors ranging from turquoise blue to jade green. Museums abound including the moving Port of Humanity Museum that honors the humanitarian work of Chiune Sugihara, credited with saving as many as 6,000 souls from the Nazis. Whether your interests lie in natural scenery, authentic experiences or historic sites, you will enjoy a day spent on these captivating shores. (B,L,D) 

Saturday, October 15: Sakaiminato
Wedged between sea, sky and mountains, this small fishing port has been esteemed for centuries for its superb seafood. West of the city lies  one of the oldest and holiest shrines, in the east is one of the four most scenic mountains in all Japan. The town of Matsue boasts the celebrated "Black Castle," a six-story, black-walled castle that home to a clan of the mighty Tokugawa dynasty that ruled Japan for over 250 years. The Yokai, approximately 100 bronze statues of supernatural characters as imagined by a famed manga comic have delight visitors. (B,L,D)

Sunday, October 16: Busan, South Korea
The second largest city in South Korea, Busan is your gateway to a fascinating land whose culture is a unique amalgam of old and new. Modern high-rise towers dwarf ancient Buddhist temples. The city's bustling business district offers a stark contrast to the serene grounds of Yongdusan Park. In short, Busan is a microcosm of South Korea, a nation whose startling economic success often obscures one of Asia's most sophisticated and venerable cultures.
Busan was the scene of bitter fighting during the Korean War. The United Nations Memorial Cemetery marks the final resting place for the troops from 16 nations who gave their lives during the conflict. (B,L,D)

Monday, October 17: Nagasaki
For most travelers, Nagasaki is a symbol of the horror and the inhumanity of war. An estimated 75,000 people perished in 1945 when the city became the second target of a nuclear attack. Today, Nagasaki's Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum draw visitors from around the world. But this beautiful city on Kyushu offers other sights. Often described as the San Francisco of Japan, the city occupies verdant hills surrounded by a deep-water bay. (B,L,D)

Tuesday, October 18: At Sea
The day is yours to enjoy! Customize your cruise experience with taking a class on dancing, cooking, ceramics, photography and more. You have the freedom to choose from an endless selection of activities tailored to suit your unique optional onboard experience. (B,L,D) 

Wednesday, October 19: Tokyo-Return Home
Upon disembarking our beautiful ship, we will transfer to the airport for our flight home. We leave with beautiful photos, amazing memories and new friends! (B)

Included Highlights: 

• Fully-escorted tour with Travel Leaders/Destinations Unlimited’s Lori Nietert
• Airport transfers
• Baggage handling
• CRUISETOUR: 6-night hotel, 9-night ship accommodations
• CRUISE ONLY: 1-night hotel, 9-night ship accommodations
• CRUISETOUR: 37 meals: 14 Breakfast (B), 12 Lunches (L), 11 dinners (D)
• CRUISE ONLY: 28 meals: 10 Breakfast (B), 9 Lunches (L), 9 dinners (D)
• Shipboard entertainment
• Wifi onboard ($174.93 per person value)
• Beverage Package onboard ($2025 per person value)
• Crew tips & gratuity onboard ($162 per person value)
• Taxes, fees and port expenses onboard ($348 per person value)
• Room Service delivery while onboard
• Unlimited Juice Bar onboard
• 2 fitness classes onboard
• 2 premium desserts onboard

Not Included:

• Airfare (Available November 2025)
• Shore excursions
• Passport
• Personal items
• Meals or beverages not listed in itinerary
• Tips and Gratuities on land or on excursions
• Travel Insurance

Contact Lori Nietert today to receive a brochure on this tour!  Lori@duagency.com or 319-393-1359

Group Tour Disclosures