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True sushi is an artform, a foodie reflection of the cultural values of respect for nature, craftsmanship, and community. Supervised by a sushi chef, take part in a sushi making class in Tokyo picking up basic sushi skills before sitting down with your fellow travellers to dine on the results.
A rare glimpse into Japan's geisha culture, sit down to a traditional Kyoto-style dinner with entertainment from a maiko. An apprentice geisha, the maiko will show off a variety of traditional skills, from dancing and singing to making conversation and leading games.
Comfortable, reliable, efficient, punctual and fast, Japan's extensive rail network is world renowned, so what better way to explore? Riding a bullet train, known as shinkansen locally, is an essential Japan experience, whizzing up to 320 kilometres an hour to get you from city to city.
Encompassing all of Japan's iconic highlights, a few hidden gems, and a quick stop in South Korea, this Cruise & Tour package combines immersive cultural experiences with the comfort and luxury of a Princess cruise. From timeless temples and serene gardens to bustling modern cities and natural wonders, this journey offers a rich introduction to Japan's history, culture, and landscapes.
Fly overnight to the lively, fast-paced city of Osaka. On arrival, you will transfer to the ancient city of Kyoto. Depending on your time of arrival, the rest of the day is at leisure to start soaking up the local culture.
Spend the day discovering the treasures of the timeless city of Kyoto, Japan's ancient capital. Begin with a wander through the beautiful Kiyomizu temple complex, from where you'll get beautiful views over the city. Lunch will be a traditional sukiyaki (hotpot) before an exploration of brewing techniques and the cultural significance of sake plus a tasting experience. Then, climb the forested slopes of Fushimi Inari Shrine, passing through the many vermilion red torii gates.
Zoom across the country on high-speed trains, passing through scenic countryside. Arrive in Kanazawa and wander the atmospheric Higashi Chaya District, one of Japan's best-preserved geisha quarters. Take part in a gold leaf experience, a local, traditional craft, and visit a samurai residence for a glimpse of life as a member of the imperial warrior class.
Begin the day in the tranquil surroundings of Kenroku-en, one of Japan's Three Great Gardens, and the Ohi Museum. Transfer by road to Takayama, a beautiful, laidback town nestled in the western foothills of the Japanese Alps. This afternoon, visit two lovely museums – Kusakabe Folk Museum and Festival Floats Exhibition Hall – and stroll Kami-sannomachi, the old town.
Browse the wares of Takayama's morning market, one of Japan's oldest, before visiting the fascinating Takayama Jinya and the Hida Folk Village, an open-air museum of traditional rural architecture. Travel by road to Yudanaka, a hot spring town at the foot of the Japanese Alps, where you'll stay in a traditional ryokan and enjoy a kaiseki dinner.
Walk through the forest of the Jigokudani Monkey Park to reach the famous hot spring pool where a troop of Japanese macaques, snow monkeys, like to bathe. Later visit Zenko-ji, an age-old Buddhist temple then transfer to Tokyo, Japan's bold and bright capital.
Tokyo may seem a thoroughly modern cityscape at first glance but look beyond the soaring towers and neon signs and you'll find deeply rooted tradition and peaceful pockets of the past. Start at vibrant Senso-ji, the city's oldest temple, and Nakamise Shopping Street, before ascending Tokyo Skytree for magical views. Enjoy a sushi making masterclass before dining on your creations for lunch. Afterwards, visit the Imperial Palace, Meiji Jingu Shrine, Takeshita Street and make a photo stop at the world-famous Shibuya Crossing.
Transfer to Tokyo's cruise port to board your Princess cruise ship. Settle into your cabin and explore the ship's facilities. Throughout your cruise, when your ship comes into port, there will be a range of excursions available to help you explore each destination. These excursions are at your own expense and are bookable on your cruise reservation.
Arrive at the city of Nagoya. Built around its magnificent castle and a fascinating history, Nagoya has long been a centre of industry, so as well as fascinating museums around manufacturing and technology, there are gardens, shrines and delicious food to discover.
Arrive in Osaka, spend the day soaking up the buzz of Japan's second largest city, there is also much to explore here. Or as this is the closest port to Kyoto spend another day exploring among ancient architecture, soaking up a rich, age-old culture or sampling some of the city's culinary delights.
A surfer hang out with a UNESCO Global Geopark coastline, plentiful great outdoors and a magnificent 400-year-old castle, Kochi is a wonderful place to while away a day.
Arrive at Hiroshima. The first city in the world to feel the power of the atomic bomb in 1945, Hiroshima has emerged for the ashes as a cosmopolitan and peaceful place. Consider visiting the tranquil Peace Park to learn about and reflect on the past.
Cruise through the Kanmon Straits, the narrow stretch of water that separates two of Japan's main islands, Honshu and Kyushu.
Hello, South Korea! Port at the bustling city of Busan for a quick taste of another wonderful nation. Boasting mountains, beaches, and hot springs, this is a city full of small-town charm.
Head back to Japan, porting at Nagasaki. Like Hiroshima, Nagasaki is best known for the events of the 9th of August 1945 but there is so much more to it. Backed by rolling hills and forested islands, with unspoilt beaches, European-style architecture, and ancient roots, it is a delight to explore.
Arrive at Kagoshima, a city at the southern tip of the island of Kyushu. Watched over by the active Sakurajima volcano and rich in history and delicious food, and surrounded by glorious nature, there is plenty to discover here.
Relax onboard your way – sitting by the pool, enjoying the bars and restaurants, or taking part in a sport or activity.
Port at Shimizu, a city of medieval castle ruins, ancient pine groves and traditional gardens. Here, you are ideally located for viewing Mount Fuji or exploring the series of fascinating cultural sites around its base.
Bid farewell to the Sapphire Princess. Met by a guide, you will be transferred to your hotel in Tokyo where the rest of the day is at leisure, with a farewell dinner at a local restaurant this evening.
The best time to visit Japan is during spring (March to May) when the cherry blossoms are bursting into life and autumn (September to November) when the scenery is ablaze with colour. June and early summer also offer excellent travelling conditions, with warm, pleasant weather and vibrant fresh greenery across much of the country.
Places Visited: UK – Kyoto (3N) – Kanazawa (1N) – Takayama (1N) – Yudanaka (1N) – Tokyo (2N) – Princess Cruise (11N) – Tokyo (1N)
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Dedicated Solo departures are available on selected dates for this tour.
These solos-only departures feature smaller group sizes of up to 18, along with free airport lounge access.
There are no dedicated Solo departures for this year. You can enjoy any of our tours with no Single Supplement on our Happy to Share option or explore the solo departures in other years.
The same great Wendy Wu tour - just with an extra level of comfort. Enjoy relaxed 5-star city hotels, unique properties, and overnight cruises, each selected to deliver an elevated experience. See Upgraded Tour Hotels above for more details.
Extend your holiday or break up your journey with one of our extensions and stopovers. Choose from city breaks or some beach time, or spend more time in your chosen destination.
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