Enjoy a 13-day voyage from South Korea to Japan. Departing Incheon near Seoul, we spend a relaxing day at sea before reaching Busan, much loved by Koreans for its setting and magnificent temple of Beomeo-sa. Sailing onwards to Japan, we stop at Nagasaki, now a vibrant and charming city, and call in at Fukuoka, renowned for its cuisine. Our next port of call is Sakaiminato, followed by Kanazawa, home to the exceptionally beautiful garden of Kenrokuen. Heading north up the coast we stop at Sakata followed by Aomori, with its striking art gallery, and proceed to Hakodate, in the shadow of the mountain of the same name, before finishing the cruise at Tokyo.

Move with a sense of awe as you explore the exquisite natural beauty of Asia. Its deep historical richness and mix of mountains and sea, ancient and modern, ensure grand discovery and endless adventure.

Asia

Book a new cruise before August 30, 2025, and you’ll receive an amazing saving of up to $3,000 per suite – including on our sumptuous Sapphire Suite category – plus up to $1,500 USD As You Wish credit to spend on flights or onboard treats.

New bookings made before August 30, 2025, will receive an exclusive saving of up to $3,000 per suite.



Enjoy up to $1,500 As You Wish credit to use on flights or treat yourself to exciting excursions and soothing spa treatments.



We will apply your saving and As You Wish credit automatically, so all you have to do is relax and enjoy yourself.

See the world in style with the added double bonus of our incredible Save & Indulge offer. Book a new cruise by August 30, 2025, and you could 

 to use on flights or treat yourself to rejuvenating spa treatments, unforgettable shore excursions, and shopping at sea in one of our fabulous boutiques.

This fantastic double offer includes our sumptuous Sapphire Suites, which comes with the option of a veranda. Revel in the spaciousness; you’ll enjoy a separate living room with sofa and dining area, walk-in wardrobe, and a choice of bathroom with a huge shower or a shower and bath. Special touches include afternoon canapés, binoculars, a coffee maker, and complimentary laundry, dry cleaning, and pressing services.

This amazing double offer is available on a wide range of sailings in 2025, 2026, and 2027, making it even easier for you to explore every corner of the world from the comfort of Crystal.

Time is running out, book now.



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SAVE & INDULGE

Book a new cruise before August 30, 2025, and you’ll receive an amazing saving of up to $5,000 AUD per suite – including on our sumptuous Sapphire Suite category – plus up to $1,500 USD As You Wish credit to spend on flights or onboard treats.

New bookings made before August 30, 2025, will receive an exclusive saving of up to $5,000 AUD per suite.



Enjoy up to $1,500 USD As You Wish credit to use on flights or treat yourself to exciting excursions and soothing spa treatments.



Book a new cruise before August 30, 2025, and you’ll receive an amazing saving of up to $5,000 CAD per suite – including on our sumptuous Sapphire Suite category – plus up to $1,500 USD As You Wish credit to spend on flights or onboard treats.

New bookings made before August 30, 2025, will receive an exclusive saving of up to $5,000 CAD per suite.



Book a new cruise before August 30, 2025, and you’ll receive an amazing saving of up to €3,000 per suite – including on our sumptuous Sapphire Suite category – plus up to $1,500 USD As You Wish credit to spend on flights or onboard treats.

New bookings made before August 30, 2025, will receive an exclusive saving of up to €3,000 per suite.



Book a new cruise before August 30, 2025, and you’ll receive an amazing saving of up to £3,000 per suite – including on our sumptuous Sapphire Suite category – plus up to $1,500 USD As You Wish credit to spend on flights or onboard treats.

New bookings made before August 30, 2025, will receive an exclusive saving of up to £3,000

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Bob Smolik

Bob Smolik is a veteran American diplomat and scholar offering an expert perspective on the history, culture, and current affairs. 

Pauline Chakmakjian

Pauline Chakmakjian is the author of the beautifully illustrated The Sphinxing Rabbit trilogy published by Markosia and a destination and special interest speaker on a variety of subjects including Japanese art, history and culture.

Jim Rowe

Dr. Jim Rowe is a cultural anthropologist who has lived and taught virtually his entire adult life internationally. 

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Grand Journey

Blessed with parks and markets to stroll through, it&#39;s hard to resist stretching your legs in South Korea&#39;s third-largest city. As you go, savor hot and crunchy deep-fried chicken, dakgangjeong, or a spicy skewer of fish cakes in a warming broth, eomuk, from the street-food stalls in Sinpo Market. Step through the great gate of the only official Chinatown in Korea and discover how its community helped create the country&#39;s national dish at the eponymous Jajangmyeon Museum. Delight in the clouds of cherry blossom that grace Jayu Freedom Park in spring. You won&#39;t tire of Incheon but dynamic Seoul is temptingly close by Metro. You might like to prepare your senses for an onrush of blinking neon lights and blasting K-pop music in the capital, yet there are calm historic corners to be found amid the soaring skyscrapers. Bongeunsa Temple, with its Buddhist shrines, and Deoksugung Palace, for the changing of the guard, are among the must-sees.

Busan, South Korea&#39;s second-largest city, is a dynamic blend of vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and bustling urban life. Situated on the southeastern coast, Busan is so much more than a sum of its parts; it&#39;s a captivating mix of historic charm, modernity, and stunning, natural beauty. The city is famous for its beautiful beaches, such as local favorite Haeundae Beach, perfect for long strolls along the promenade or the more nostalgic Dadaepo Beach, where golden sands meet the turquoise sea. South Korea is still emerging as a traveler destination and as such, much of this beautiful country remains unspoiled. The city&#39;s history comes alive at places like the Beomeosa Temple, a Buddhist sanctuary founded in 678 AD, and the historic Gamcheon Culture Village, known for its colorful houses and artsy alleys. Or, if you are looking for a glimpse into Busan&#39;s maritime heritage, head to Jagalchi, one of Korea&#39;s largest fish markets. Experience bustling fish auctions and savor the freshest seafood dishes at the surrounding eateries.

Enjoy a scenic drive through Busan City en route to the revered Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, one of the most iconic Buddhist temples in Busan.Founded in 1376 and beautifully restored in 1970, this temple is perched dramatically on a massive rock formation emerging from the ocean. The site features a collection of temples along the shoreline, complemented by numerous statues and sculptures. The rhythmic sound of the East Sea waves, paired with the melodic chanting of sutras, creates an enchanting atmosphere, enhancing the allure of this architectural marvel.Continue the journey with a drive along the picturesque Haeundae Beach, leading to the Oryukdo Skywalk. This striking structure, opened in 2013, is situated in the Seungdumal area, a geographical marker dividing the East Sea and the South Sea. The iron-and-glass skywalk, suspended 115 feet (35 meters) above a coastal cliff, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline, the expansive sea, and, on clear days, distant Daemado Island.

Experience the serenity of Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, perched above the East Sea, followed by a breathtaking walk on the glass-bottomed Oryukdo Skywalk, offering panoramic views of Busan&#39;s stunning coastline.

Temple by the Sea & Skywalk

Enjoy a scenic drive to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple. Uniquely positioned along Korea&#39;s coastline rather than in the mountains, this revered site is one of South Korea&#39;s three sacred temples associated with the Goddess of Buddha.Founded in 1376 by the esteemed Buddhist teacher Naong during the Goryeo Dynasty, the temple was destroyed during the Japanese invasion and later rebuilt by Monk Ungang of Tongdo Temple in the 1930s. In 1970, the main sanctuary was meticulously reconstructed, reflecting traditional color schemes. Descend 108 steps to approach the water&#39;s edge, where stunning views of the main temple building await.Continue the tour in the serene Ahopsan Forest in Gijang-gun. This pristine forest, untouched by public access for over 400 years, is renowned for its lush environment and rich biodiversity, including bamboo habitats, red pines, hinoki cypress, and oak trees. Protected as a green belt and water source conservation area, Ahopsan Forest also gained fame as a filming location for the popular Netflix seriesThe King: Eternal Monarch.

Explore the traditional, modern, and natural beauty of Gijang county during this half-day sightseeing, with visits to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple and the Ahopsan Forest.

Exploring Gijang County

Dive deep into the vibrant and colorful world of Gamcheon Culture Village in this 'Local Insights' tour, guided by a native resident.This immersive experience provides a deep dive into the history, culture, and daily life of this vibrant hillside community. Originally a post-war refugee settlement, Gamcheon Culture Village underwent a remarkable transformation in 2009. The initiative, themed “Dreaming of Machu Picchu in Busan”, turned the former slum into a colorful and artistic enclave, adorned with pastel-colored houses and street art created by local artists. The village now offers a unique visual feast of creative expression and artistic charm.Following the village exploration, visit the bustling Busan Fish Market, renowned for its extensive selection of shellfish. The market&#39;s lively atmosphere, with its impressive display of seafood, the sea air, and the sounds of local vendors, provides an authentic taste of Busan&#39;s maritime culture.Conclude with a visit to Gukje Market, Busan&#39;s largest and most central marketplace. Established by Korean War refugee descendants, this market features six distinct districts offering a diverse range of goods.

Experience the life of Busan locals with an immersive trip to Gamcheon Culture Village. Then, dive into Busan&#39;s maritime culture at the lively Fish Market and explore the diverse Gukje Market, capturing the essence of this dynamic city.

Local Insight: Immersive Experience in Gamcheon Culture Village

Begin the journey with a visit to the Oryukdo Skywalk, a glass bridge perched at the edge of Oryukdo Island. This striking structure offers an exhilarating experience as it extends over the sea, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding waters and the iconic Oryukdo and Igidae Park. The six rocky islets of Oryukdo, stretching south-southeast from Seungdumal, mark the division between the East Sea and the South Sea, creating a dramatic backdrop for this adventure.Following this, embark on an eco-conscious exploration of Busan&#39;s Igidae Coastal Road with a guided Coastal Trek and Plogging activity. This scenic trail, renowned for its stunning views of the East Sea and rugged cliffs, offers a unique opportunity to combine outdoor adventure with environmental stewardship. Participants engage in plogging—collecting litter while trekking—to help maintain the pristine beauty of this natural landscape.This experience is enriched by knowledgeable guides who offer insights into the local ecosystem, flora, and fauna, while also highlighting the cultural significance of the area. With several stops at scenic viewpoints, the tour provides moments to capture the breathtaking scenery. This journey reflects a commitment to sustainable tourism, blending the joy of exploration with a positive environmental impact.

Embark on an eco-friendly Coastal Trek and Plogging activity along Busan&#39;s stunning Igidae Coastal Road, blending scenic hiking with environmental stewardship.

Coastal Trek and Plogging

This exclusive arrangement is designed to allow you the chance to customize your time ashore in the comfort and privacy of your own vehicle. With your private vehicle and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore according to your own interests and sightsee at your own pace.

Enjoy the freedom to plan your day at your own pace with a private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide.

Half-Day Private Car & English-Speaking Guide - Busan

Full-Day Private Car & English-Speaking Guide - Busan

Half-Day Private Van & English-Speaking Guide - Busan

Full-Day Private Van & English-Speaking Guide - Busan

Journey into the vibrant city of Busan, exploration the highlights of the city.A visit to the United Nations Memorial Cemetery, the only cemetery in the world dedicated to UN soldiers, honoring those from 16 countries who fell during the Korean War (1950-1953). Set within 135,000 square meters of serene parkland, this memorial site preserves the resting place of 2,300 soldiers amidst notable features such as the Memorial Service Hall, Memorabilia Hall, Turkish and Greek Monuments, and a British Commonwealth Monument.Continue with a visit to the Oryukdo Skywalk, a breathtaking glass-bottomed walkway perched 35 meters above the sea. This architectural marvel offers unparalleled views of the dramatic coastline and the shimmering ocean below, providing a unique perspective on Busan&#39;s natural beauty.Next, immerse in local culture at the bustling harbor-side fish market, where fresh catches are artfully displayed, creating a lively atmosphere filled with the sights and sounds of this maritime city.Conclude with a visit to Gukje Market, Busan&#39;s largest central marketplace, established by Korean War refugees descendants.

Become acquainted with Busan&#39;s rich heritage, beginning with the solemn United Nations Memorial Cemetery. Experience the thrill of the Oryukdo Skywalk, take in the vibrant atmosphere of the bustling fish market, and wander through Gukje Market, capturing the essence of this dynamic maritime city.

Introduction to Busan

Discover the heart of Busan on this Culinary Journey.The journey begins with an immersion into the vibrant atmosphere of Busan&#39;s bustling harbor-side fish market, which extends into the heart of downtown. As one of the city&#39;s most authentic experiences, the market offers an impressive array of fresh seafood, with a particularly extensive shellfish section. The early morning catch is attractively displayed on ice, filling the air with the scent of the sea and the lively calls of market vendors.Following this, proceed to a local market for an opportunity to have a Korean shopping experience. This visit provides an insightful glimpse into local grocery shopping traditions.The experience culminates at the esteemed Cooking Institute, where an interactive culinary lesson awaits. Master the art of preparing traditional Korean dishes such as bulgogi, a grilled marinated beef dish, or bibimbap, Koreas signature rice dish. Conclude by savoring the meal crafted during the lesson.

Discover the secrets of Busan food with a fish market visit, a Korean shopping experience at a local market, and an immersive culinary lesson at the esteemed Cooking Institute. Savor traditional dishes and bring home a taste of Korea.

Busan Culinary Journey

Journey through South Korea&#39;s ancient heritage with a scenic drive from the pier to Gyeongju, a city steeped in history and culture. Once the capital of the Shilla Kingdom and the heart of Korea&#39;s unification in 676 A.D., Gyeongju, known as the 'museum without walls', has been recognized by UNESCO as one of the world&#39;s most historically significant sites.Explore the renowned Bulguksa Temple, nestled on the western slope of Mt. Tohamsan. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a testament to the architectural brilliance of the Shilla era and the profound Buddhist faith of the time. The original stone bridges, stairways, and pagodas stand as enduring symbols of Korea&#39;s spiritual legacy.Following a traditional Bulgogi lunch at a local restaurant, visit the Gyeongju National Museum, home to Shilla-era treasures, including gold crowns, pottery, Buddhist artifacts, and the legendary Emille Bell.Conclude with a visit to Tumuli Park, where the royal tombs of the Shilla dynasty, including the famed Chonmachong (Flying Horse Tomb), offer a glimpse into Korea&#39;s regal past.

Discover South Korea&#39;s ancient heritage in UNESCO&#39;s site Gyeongju, the 'museum without walls'. Explore the Bulguksa Temple, marvel at Shilla-era treasures in the Gyeongju National Museum, and visit the royal tombs of Tumuli Park, all whilst having a taste of a Korean-style lunch.

UNESCO Heritage Sites of Gyeongju

Enjoy a scenic drive to Beomeosa Temple, one of Busan&#39;s most significant and historic temples, nestled on the edge of Mt. Geumjeongsan. Founded in 678 by monk Ui Sang, Beomeosa Temple was magnificently renovated in 1713, showcasing exquisite Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910) architecture. Highlights include the 9th-century Iljumun Gate, a three-story pagoda with four pillars, seven palace wings, pavilions, three gates, and eleven hermitages, all set amidst serene wisteria woods and valleys, designated as a natural monument.Following the temple visit, an exclusive opportunity awaits for Crystal Cruises guests, engaging in meditation with a resident monk over a cup of tea.The journey continues with a drive along Haeundae Beach to the APEC House, an architectural landmark built for the 2005 APEC Summit at the tip of Dongbaek Island.Lunch will then take place at Hanjeongsik, with a traditional Korean feast before exploring the lively Busan Fish Market, renowned for its extensive shellfish offerings and vibrant market atmosphere.The tour concludes with a visit to Gukje Market, Busan&#39;s largest market, established by Korean War refugee descendants. Divided into six districts, this bustling marketplace provides a diverse array of goods.

Discover Busan&#39;s heritage with a visit to Beomeosa Temple&#39;s serene grounds and engaging in meditation with a resident monk. Drive along Haeundae Beach to the APEC House in Dongbaek Island, have lunch at Hanjeongsik, and explore the Busan Fish Market and Gukje Market, showcasing the city&#39;s dynamic essence.

Enriching Busan: Mong Tea Experiences & APEC House and Markets

Nagasaki is a thriving city on Kyushu Island&#39;s northwestern shores. As Japan&#39;s only access to the West, it flourished during a period of national isolation in the 16th century and continues to be influenced by the ideas and technology of other cultures. Must-see attractions include Japan&#39;s oldest gothic-style wooden church and the inspirational Peace Park. Also of particular note is the stately Glover Mansion, an impressive hideaway which was the legendary setting of Puccini&#39;s opera, Madame Butterfly. A harmonious blend of ancient and modern influences will be yours to enjoy during your sojourn in Nagasaki.

Begin the tour with a visit to Dejima, formerly an artificial island in Nagasaki Bay, established in 1636 to accommodate Portuguese residents. Although Dejima is no longer an island due to land reclamation in the 20th century, many historical structures remain or are being meticulously reconstructed.Proceed to Nagasaki Peace Park, an 8.6 acre (3.4 hectare) sanctuary dedicated to world peace. The park features a prominent fountain and an array of statues and sculptures donated by nations and artists globally, each symbolizing a commitment to peace.Conclude the tour at Glover Garden, where a Western-style residence from the Meiji period has been meticulously reconstructed. This site provides insight into the lifestyle of foreign merchants and Japan&#39;s modernization era, when Nagasaki thrived as a prominent trading port.

Discover Nagasaki&#39;s rich history and beauty with a visit to Dejima&#39;s historic island,the serene Nagasaki Peace Park dedicated to global harmony, and Glover Garden, showcasing Western influences from Japan&#39;s Meiji era. Experience history, peace, and cultural transformation.

Highlights of Nagasaki

Explore two poignant sites in Nagasaki that vividly recall the enduring threat of nuclear devastation. Known for its charming amphitheater-like layout with winding streets and tiered houses, Nagasaki combines natural beauty with hot springs and active volcanoes. Despite its modern appearance, rebuilt since 1945, the city retains historic buildings, secluded gardens, and temples.Begin with a visit to the Atomic Bomb Museum, featuring over 900 artifacts that illustrate the city&#39;s devastation and highlight modern nuclear technology and concerns. The museum presents a candid portrayal of the atomic bomb&#39;s impact and its aftermath, aiming to promote the abolition of nuclear weapons.Next, visit Nagasaki Peace Park, dedicated to the victims of the plutonium bomb dropped on August 9, 1945. The park, which suffered extensive damage despite the bomb missing its intended target, features a collection of statues and sculptures from around the world. Notable is the Peace Memorial Statue, symbolizing the ongoing threat of nuclear destruction.

Experience Nagasaki&#39;s history at the Atomic Bomb Museum, with its powerful artifacts and narratives, and reflect at Nagasaki Peace Park, where global sculptures and the Peace Memorial Statue honor victims and advocate for a world free of nuclear threat.

Ground Zero & The Atomic Bomb Museum

Embark on a scenic drive to Inasayama Natural Park, situated on Inasayama Hill. This renowned location offers breathtaking views of sunsets and nightscapes. Weather permitting, vistas may extend to Unzen, Amakusa, and Gotoh Islands. Ascend the hillside aboard the popular slope car, which transports guests to the upper level of Mount Inasa. From this vantage point, proceed to the observatory at the summit to enjoy nearly 360-degree panoramic views of Nagasaki and its ever-changing seasonal landscapes.Following the visit to Inasayama, proceed with a drive through Nagasaki, featuring notable landmarks such as Dejima, Chinatown, and Urakami Cathedral. This tour provides a comprehensive exploration of the city&#39;s historic and cultural highlights.

Experience breathtaking panoramas from Inasayama Natural Park&#39;s summit, followed by a scenic drive through Nagasaki&#39;s historic sites like Dejima, Chinatown, and Urakami Cathedral. Enjoy a journey through captivating landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

Panoramic Nagasaki

Half-Day Private Car & English-Speaking Guide - Nagasaki

Full-Day Private Car & English-Speaking Guide - Nagasaki

Half-Day Private Van & English-Speaking Guide - Nagasaki

Full-Day Private Van & English-Speaking Guide - Nagasaki

Embark on a full-day journey from the bustling city center of Nagasaki to explore the serene and historic regions of Unzen and Shimabara.Begin with a scenic drive through the picturesque countryside to Unzen Hell, a renowned hot spring resort formed by a magma reservoir beneath a nearby bay. Unzen Hell holds significant geological and historical importance. Between 1627 and 1632, Christians were martyred in these springs by order of Matsukura Shigemasa, the first lord of Shimabara, to suppress the spread of Christianity. As you stroll along the boardwalk winding through the boiling geothermal springs, witness firsthand the dramatic landscape that inspired its evocative name.After a delightful lunch at a local restaurant, visitShimabara Castle, a white-walled, five-tiered fortress originally constructed in the 17th century. The castle&#39;s museum offers insight into Japan&#39;s early Christian struggles and the Shimabara Rebellion. Stroll through the castle grounds, adorned with cherry blossom trees, before returning to the ship.

Embark on a full-day journey from the bustling city center of Nagasaki to explore the serene and historic regions of Unzen and Shimabara, a famous hot spring resort and a historic castle town correspondingly.

Unzen & Shimabara

Experience a full-day excursion to Arita, renowned globally as the birthplace of exquisite Japanese ceramics.Begin the tour at China On The Park, showcasing the works of Fukagawa Seiji, founded by Chuji Fukagawa in 1897. This theme park features a gallery displaying a comprehensive collection of Fukagawa Seiji&#39;s porcelain, renowned for its clear white and vibrant blue hues. The Paris Exposition vase from 1900, prominently displayed, is a notable highlight.Next, visit Sueyama Shrine, a protector of Arita&#39;s pottery heritage. The precincts, often referred to as an open-air museum, include rare porcelain torii gates and guardian dogs.Enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch before returning to Nagasaki, and conclude the day with a visit to Nagasaki Peace Park, situated near the atomic bomb blast epicenter of August 1945.

Explore Arita, the heart of Japanese ceramics, starting with Fukagawa Seiji&#39;s stunning porcelain at China On The Park. Then, pay a visit to the Nagasaki Peace Park.

Arita & Nagasaki

Visitors from the sea have long been welcomed at this port on Kyushu Island in Japan&#39;s lush, subtropical south. Set as close to Taiwan as to Tokyo, it&#39;s brimming with pan-Asian flavors and there are plenty of ways to savor them. One of the best is at a yatai, the enticing street-food stalls that, some say, Fukuoka has more of than the whole of Japan. See them by lantern light when the sun goes down on the waterfront at Nakasu Island River, and succumb to a ladle or two of meaty Hakata pork broth with slurpable ramen noodles. For a more refined authentic taste, delve into Fukuoka&#39;s Edo-era history at the ruins of its 17th-century castle, or, in Shofukuji, Japan&#39;s first Zen temple, founded in the 12th century, with its wooden pagoda and golden statues of Buddha. Look to the future, too, at Canal City, the five-storey mega mall complete with its own waterway.

Facing the Sea of Japan on the north coast of Honshu Island, Sakaiminato is the main fishing port for western Japan so, as you&#39;d expect, you can try some of the finest seafood in the country here. Vibrant displays of glistening bluefin tuna and red queen crab are laid out in the bustling fish market next to Yumeminato Tower. Nearby, there are species of another kind: Shigeru Road is lined with about 150 bronze statues of monsters and ghosts created by acclaimed manga artist Shigeru Mizuki, who was born here. For more classic Japanese culture head just west of town to handsome Matsue-jo castle, which dates from 1611 and is only one of a handful of its kind remaining in Japan (a gentle boat trip around the moat is a lovely way to see it). Sakaiminato is also a good base for hiking through the Daisen Oki National Park, which surrounds the striking (and dormant) volcano Mount Daisen.

This serene garden city packs a punch for samurai heritage and immaculately preserved Edo-era architecture – and surprisingly uncrowded 17th-century neighborhoods. Here you will encounter geishas hosting tea ceremonies behind screen-walled houses, and artisans producing Kutani pottery, kaga-yuzen dyed silk, and lacquerware in workshops dating back to when wealth, power, and arts patronage defined this city-seat of the influential Maeda clan. In Kenroku-en, the family&#39;s castle grounds, explore one of Japan&#39;s most exquisite gardens, with ponds and fountains linked by bridges and fringed by walkways overhung with trees and plants that erupt into seasonal bloom. Carefully curated beauty is replicated in kaiseki, Japan&#39;s classical multi-course fine-dining experience, here taking in such regional delicacies as sesame tofu, Noto beef and the Ishikawa sake made from the crystal-clear waters from the mountains.

Sakata on the northwest coast of Honshu Island wears its past with pride. This busy little town was a major port city during the Edo Period in the 17th to 19th centuries, profiting from the shipment of Shonai rice from the surrounding area – today rice, and its offshoot sake, are still some of the region&#39;s main resources and you can visit the old warehouses and even a museum dedicated to this humble grain. In the town center, tour the beautifully preserved residence of the Honmas, a vastly wealthy family of merchants, resplendent with gables and shoji screens. About a mile north, the Honma Museum of Art is housed in the family&#39;s splendid holiday villa, which sits in serene, landscaped gardens. Other past glories of Sakata include Somaro, a restored high-class teahouse with gardens, tea rooms and dance performances by apprentice geishas. Mount Chokai and Chokai Quasi-National Park, meanwhile, make for a glorious outdoor excursion.

With its apple orchards, cherry trees and backdrop of the Hakkoda Mountains, this city on the northern tip of Honshu island is a gateway to some of Japan&#39;s most beautiful landscapes. About 30 miles south is UNESCO World Heritage Site Shirakami Sanchi, a mountainous area with the last of East Asia&#39; virgin beech forests. Walking trails here lead to waterfalls and lakes, and you may spot golden eagles, black woodpeckers, Japanese macaques and even shy black bears as you go. Some 40 miles southeast, deep-blue Lake Towada is serenely breathtaking and offers gentle activities from walking to canoeing and boat rides. The Aomori area also enjoys a vibrant contemporary arts scene, from the gleaming white Aomori Museum of Art, complete with a colossal dog statue by Yoshitomo Nara, to the Hirosaki Museum of Contemporary Art, strikingly set in a former brewery, and Towada Art Center with eye-popping sculpture.

When Japan ended two centuries of self-imposed silence, Hakodate, was one of the first ports to open to the outside world. That was in 1859 – fast-forward to today and you&#39;ll find a modern metropolis capitalising on its prime location at the southern edge of Hakkaido, just across the water from Honshu. Yet this city values its heritage, especially the impressive 19th- and 20th-century buildings that blend Japanese and Western styles in the Motomachi district, such as the grandiose Old Public Hall of Hakodate and the Former British Consulate, where you can sip tea looking out at a rose garden. Flavors are more authentic at the Morning Market, where chefs from the surrounding cafés pluck fresh seafood from the stalls – try ikameshi (rice-filled squid). And those snow monkeys you see photos of bathing in steaming mineral waters – they&#39;re here in the botanical garden. To put it all in perspective, trek up the well-kept paths to the 334m summit of Mount Hakodate.

Japan&#39;s capital, Tokyo, and its bustling port of Yokohama form a vast urban complex that boasts a unique combination of energy and orderliness. Fusing the vitality of a modern metropolis with the stately elegance of yesteryear, Tokyo is truly unique. From the timeless beauty of the Meiji Shrine to the glittering Ginza district and impressive Tokyo Tower, this international giant is a complex blend of East and West. Houses of wood and paper stand beside towering steel skyscrapers, while kimono-clad women stroll beside teenagers who have created a fashion all their own. The timeless Imperial Palace bears testament to Japan&#39;s enduring traditions. Despite encroaching urban development, it continues to exist in a verdant parkland of isolation. Images of the vibrant metropolis of Tokyo, which is home to more than 11 million people, will create memories of a lifetime.

Conrad Tokyo

Perched on floors 28–37 of the Shiodome skyscraper, Conrad Tokyo commands sweeping views of Tokyo Bay and Hamarikyu Gardens. Situated adjacent to Shiodome Station and steps from Ginza, this distinguished urban retreat features Mizuki Spa’s panoramic Hinoki bath, a 25-metre indoor pool, a fitness centre, and several esteemed restaurants such as China Blue, Collage and Kazahana.

Conrad Seoul

Imperial Hotel Tokyo

Four Seasons Hotel Seoul

From bustling fish markets and bonsai trees, to bubbling hot springs and bullet trains, Japan is a destination like no other. Time travel through its unique history as you learn about its ancient rituals and dine on futuristic foodie innovations. Old and new collide in an unmissable way on our tour of Tokyo and Hakone.Top Highlights:<ul><li>Zoom into Tokyo on the famously fast Bullet Train.</li><li>Float above volcanic landscapes on The Hakone Ropeway aerial tramway.</li><li>Experience the traditional ritual of kimono dressing and the importance of tea ceremonies.</li><li>Sail across sapphire waters – and spot Mt. Fuji – on Lake Ashi.</li></ul>

From bustling fish markets and bonsai trees, to bubbling hot springs and bullet trains, Japan is a destination like no other. Time travel through its unique history as you learn about its ancient rituals and dine on futuristic foodie innovations. Old and new collide in an unmissable way on our tour of Tokyo and Hakone. Top Highlights:<ul><li>Zoom into Tokyo on the famously fast Bullet Train.</li><li>Float above volcanic landscapes on The Hakone Ropeway aerial tramway.</li><li>Experience the traditional ritual of kimono dressing and the importance of tea ceremonies.</li><li>Sail across sapphire waters &#8211; and spot Mt. Fuji &#8211; on Lake Ashi.</li></ul>

HIGHLIGHTS OF TOKYO AND HAKONE

Roundtrip Tokyo

Incheon (Seoul) to Tokyo

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