Natural Wonders of Japan and Taipei

From Minami's neon-lighted Dotombori and historic Tenno-ji to the high-rise class and underground shopping labyrinths of Kita, Osaka is a city that pulses with its own unique rhythm. Though Osaka has no shortage of tourist sites, it is the city itself that is the greatest attraction. Home to some of Japan's best food, most unique fashions, and warmest locals, Osaka does not beg to be explored—it demands it. More than anywhere else in Japan, it rewards the impulsive turn down an interesting side street or the chat with a random stranger. People do not come here to see the city, they come to experience it.Excluded from the formal circles of power and aristocratic culture in 16th-century Edo (Tokyo), Osaka took advantage of its position as Japan's trading center, developing its own art forms such as Bunraku puppet theater and Rakugo comic storytelling. It was in Osaka that feudal Japan's famed Floating World—the dining, theater, and pleasure district—was at its strongest and most inventive. Wealthy merchants and common laborers alike squandered fortunes on culinary delights, turning Osaka into "Japan's Kitchen," a moniker the city still has today. Though the city suffered a blow when the Meiji government canceled all of the samurai class's outstanding debts to the merchants, it was quick to recover. At the turn of the 20th century, it had become Japan's largest and most prosperous city, a center of commerce and manufacturing.Today Osaka remains Japan's iconoclastic metropolis, refusing to fit Tokyo's norms and expectations. Unlike the hordes of Tokyo, Osakans are fiercely independent. As a contrast to the neon and concrete surroundings, the people of Osaka are known as Japan's friendliest and most outgoing. Ask someone on the street for directions in Tokyo and you are lucky to get so much as a glance. Ask someone in Osaka and you get a conversation.The main areas of the city, Kita (north) and Minami (south), are divided by two rivers: the Dojima-gawa and the Tosabori-gawa. Between Kita and Minami is Naka-no-shima, an island and the municipal center of Osaka. Kita (north of Chuo Dori) is Osaka's economic hub and contains Osaka's largest stations: JR Osaka and Hankyu Umeda. The area is crammed with shops, department stores, and restaurants. Nearby are a nightlife district, Kita-shinchi; Naka-no-shima and the Museum of Oriental Ceramics; Osaka-jo (Osaka Castle); and Osaka Koen (Osaka Park). Restaurants, bars, department stores, and boutiques attract Osaka's youth to Minami (south Chuo Dori); theatergoers head to the National Bunraku Theatre and electronics-lovers to Den Den Town. For a glimpse of old Osaka, visit Tenno-ji Temple and Shin Sekai. The main stations are Namba, Shin-sai-bashi, Namba Nankai, and Tenno-ji. There's easy access to the Municipal Museum of Fine Art and Sumiyoshi Taisha (Sumiyoshi Grand Shrine).The bay area, to the west of the city center, is home to the Osaka Aquarium and Universal Studios Japan. The Shinkansen stops at Shin-Osaka, three stops (about five minutes) north of Osaka Station on the Mido-suji subway line. To the north of Shin-Osaka is Senri Expo Park.

At once spirited and relaxed, Osaka is a dynamic city best loved for its culinary excellence, exuberant nightlife and vibrant locals. Board Scenic Eclipse II to begin your Cruise Voyage of wonder and be warmly greeted by the crew and a glass of Champagne as you step onboard your Discovery Yacht. This evening, toast the beginning of your luxurious cruise of exploration from the Observation Deck as you watch Osaka’s lights glitter on the shore.

Please book your flight to arrive into Osaka prior to 02:00 PM.

Located on the calm waters of the Inland Sea, Kobe has served as an important port town for hundreds of years. It was one of the first harbours to accept foreign traders in 1868 when Japan was just emerging from its centuries of isolation. What followed was a surge of Western trade and exports. Today, Kobe is quite multicultural, with expatriates from 98 different nations in residence, providing a cultural diversity most easily visible in restaurants serving every kind of cuisine, including the now world famous Kobe beef. The Great Hanshin Earthquake of 1995 set back Kobe’s development, but not for long. Kobe emerged more vibrant than before - with additional attractions, hotels and urban redevelopment, and only a few remnants of the extensive damage. It is a cosmopolitan place with lively shopping arcades, interesting museums, great restaurants, and a port that is still at the heart of things. Kobe is well known for its nightlife, in an intimate quarter of neon lights, cosy bars and sophisticated nightclubs. It also serves as the gateway to the ancient Japanese capitals of Kyoto and Nara.

Arrive this morning in the harbour city of Kobe on the island of Honshu. Compact and condensed between the sea and the Rokko mountain range, Kobe has a long history of maritime trade. Despite this, beautiful Kobe is a modern-looking city, having been completely rebuilt following a devastating earthquake in 1995. You may choose to explore on your own to learn more about this event at the Earthquake Museum.

If you prefer to spend the afternoon in the ultra-luxury of your Discovery Yacht, retreat for a touch of tranquillity at the expansive Senses Spa#.

Freechoice:
Cultural Gems of Ancient Kyoto: Discover Kyoto's rich heritage with a visit to the Golden Pavilion, a 14th-century marvel adorned in gold leaf, and Nijo Castle, a World Heritage site showcasing Momoyama architecture.

Craftsmanship of Kobe: Explore the artistry of Japanese woodworking at the Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum, then visit the Sawanotsuru Sake Museum.

Himeji Castle & Kokoen Garden: Visit Himeji Castle, a World Heritage site famed for its white elegance and historical preservation. Enjoy the tranquil Kokoen Garden, featuring nine themed gardens.

This morning, you will arrive at the port of Uno, the gateway to the garden city of Okayama, the second-largest city in the Chugoku region. Okayama is home to the stunning Korakuen Garden, which was commissioned by a feudal lord in 1687 as a place to receive guests. Choose to spend your day strolling immaculately manicured gardens, admiring historic architecture or contemplating thought-provoking art.

Return to your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht this evening and unwind with a cocktail in one of the all-inclusive eight bars and lounges.

Freechoice:
Kurashiki Historic District: Explore Kurashiki, a former port town with white-walled storehouses and charming canals. Visit the 200-year-old Ohashi House and the Kurashiki Folkcraft Museum, featuring over 800 traditional crafts.

Pottery and Sword Making Traditions of Bizen: Discover Bizen City, famed for its ancient crafts. Visit a Bizen ware pottery kiln, meet artisans, and tour the Bizen Osafune Sword Museum, showcasing traditional Japanese swords and live demonstrations by skilled artisans.

Naoshima Island of Art: Experience Naoshima’s modern art scene. Visit the Benesse House and Museum, the Art House Project, and the Naoshima New Museum, all blending art, architecture, and nature.

Takamatsu city is the capital of Kagawa prefecture which is Japan’s smallest prefecture. This city is a vibrant blend of natural beauty and cosmopolitan functionality with a population of 420,000 people. The port of Takamatsu used to be the main gateway to Shikoku Island until the opening of the 37km long Seto Ohashi Bridge in 1988. Takamatsu city has flourished along with the Seto Inland Sea since 17th century when Matsudaira family, the relatives of the Tokugawa Shogun, ruled this area. Matsudaira family has completed the famous Japanese “Ritsurin Garden”. It took more than 100 years to complete this spacious garden with 75 hectares of land which features 13 landscaped hills, 6 ponds and many stone arrangements that have been placed in perfect balance in front of a vast green vista of Mt. Shiun. This garden was constructed as a villa of Matsudaira family and it attracts many visitors from all over the world. Furthermore, Takamatsu is a great place to find fresh seafood, its product, and famous Sanuki Udon noodles.

Overnight your Discovery Yacht will have arrived at Takamatsu, the capital of Kagawa. Gazing upon the Seto Inland Sea, the port of Takamatsu is the gateway to the sea’s many stunning islands. From here you can travel along the longest road bridge in the world, the Seto Ohashi Bridge.

Explore the ruins of the waterfront Takamatsu Castle, wander the tranquil Ritsurin Koen garden, built by feudal lords in the Edo Period, and enjoy the local specialty of ‘sanuki udon’ noodles, famed for its delightful texture.

With an overnight stay in Takamatsu, you have ample opportunity to explore.

Freechoice:
Iconic Scenery of Takamatsu: Visit Ritsurin Garden, known for its stunning pine trees. Then explore Yashima Temple and enjoy panoramic views of Takamatsu city and the Seto Inland Sea.

Traditional Buildings of Shikoku and Bonsai Farm: Tour Shikoku Mura, an open-air museum of traditional buildings, and visit a Bonsai farm in Kinashi.

Marugame Castle and Seto Bridge View: Explore Marugame Castle, one of Japan’s twelve remaining original castles, and then drive to Seto Bridge for a photo stop.

Ritsurin Garden and Bonsai Nursery with Udon Lunch: Tour Ritsurin Garden, a 185-acre cultural site, followed by Yashima Temple for breathtaking views. Enjoy a local udon lunch before visiting a Bonsai farm.

Revel in your Discovery Yacht’s spaces from the Senses Spa# to the Observation Lounge this morning en route to the port of Imabari in Ehime Prefecture.

After lunch, Imabari awaits your discovery.The jewel in the city’s crown is Imbari Castle, an Edo Period coastal masterpiece of castle construction so well built it inspired many castles that followed.

Return to your opulent 6-star suite and request your favourite drink to sip as you watch Imabari’s lights fade behind you.

Freechoice:
Imabari Castle and Shimanami Kaido Panoramic: Enjoy a scenic drive on the Shimanami Kaido highway, stopping at Oyamazumi Shrine on Omishima Island to see samurai armor. Conclude with a photo stop at Imabari Castle.

Kurushima Strait Cruise and Views: Take a scenic cruise through Kurushima Strait, observing the fast currents, shipyards, and the iconic Kurushima Strait Bridge. Afterward, visit Mt. Kirozan observatory for stunning views of Seto Inland Sea.

Shimanami Kaido Cycling Across Kurushima Strait Bridge: Cruise to Umashima Island, then cycle across the Kurushima Strait Bridge. Finish at Yoshiumi Terminal and return by boat to Imabari Port.

The small island of Miyajima (“The Shrine Island”) is known for the Floating Torii Gate, which is one of “The Three Most Beautiful Views” of Japan. Built in the water, the Torii Gate leads to the Itsukushima Shrine and at high tide it seems to float. The Torii Gate is one of the most photographed sites in all of Japan. There are many more shrines and paths on Miyajima that are inviting to walk. Mount Misen has a cable car leading partly up to the top with nice views and wild monkeys and deer roaming the trails.

Your day begins at the small island of Miyajima, which translates to ‘Shrine Island’ in Japanese. Miyajima is famous for its Itsukushima shrine and enormous torii gate which, at high tide, appears to float above the water.

Enjoy lunch on board as you journey towards Hiroshima. Another city ravaged by the atomic bomb during WWII, Hiroshima has risen to become a living symbol of peace and rebirth. Visit the Peace Memorial Park and World Heritage-listed Atomic Bomb Dome, where you can reflect on the sombre history and admire the city’s determination to endure and overcome.

Freechoice:
Hiroshima and Miyajima Full day with Japanese Lunch: Take a ferry to Miyajima Island, home to the Itsukushima Shrine. Visit Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Park, Museum, and the Atomic Bomb Dome.

Itsukushima Shrine and Zen Meditation at Daishoin: Explore Miyajima Island’s Itsukushima Shrine before tranquil Zen meditation at Daishoin Temple.

Local Sweets Cooking Class: Learn to make momiji manju, a traditional maple leaf-shaped confection, then explore Itsukushima Shrine.

Simose Art Museum: Visit the 2023-opened Simose Art Museum, showcasing Shigeru Ban’s visual arts and Seto Inland Sea views.

Miyajima Walking Tour:  Explore Itsukushima Shrine and its floating Torii Gate on foot.

Panoramic Hiroshima: Tour Peace Memorial Park, Museum, and the World Heritage-listed Atomic Bomb Dome before relaxing at Hiroshima’s serene Shukkeien Garden.

Peace Memorial Park and Museum: Reflect on Hiroshima's WWII history at Peace Memorial Park and Museum.

History buffs will want to write home Hiroshima. Despite being devastated in 1945, this Japanese city is known to all for its commitment peace – its ruin on the 6th August 1945 led to the end of the war and today, the Peace Memorial (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) , is a constant reminder of the destruction that war brings. A walk in the leafy boulevards of Peace Memorial Park brings quiet contemplation. The Flames of Peace – set in the park’s central feature pond – burn brightly and will continue to do so until all the nuclear bombs I the world have been destroyed. There are many other inspiring messages of hope around the city too; the Children’s’ Peace Monument just north of the park is a homage to little Sadako Sasaki, who was just two in 1945. When she developed leukemia in 1956, she believed that if she folded 1,000 paper cranes – a symbol of longevity and happiness in Japan – she would recover. Sadly she died before she finished her task but her classmates finished the rest. It is impossible to ignore the events of 1945 in Hiroshima, but this is far from a depressing place. The great efforts that have been made in rebuilding of the city over the years have given Hiroshima a vibrant, eclectic edge, with the downtown shopping area and street food stalls being well worth a visit. The proximity to Miyajima and its iconic, impressive, Torii gate should not be overlooked either. If you are lucky enough to visit during the unpredictable and short-lived Sakura (cherry blossom) season, then the extraordinary sight of the delicate pink blossom floating across the water to the red gate, means you can consider yourself one of the luckiest people on the planet.

Greet the sun as it rises over the water this morning during a yoga class at PURE: Yoga & Pilates Studio. Then spend the day discovering the beauty of mountainous Matsuyama on the island of Shikoku.

Set on the edge of the gentle Seto Inland Sea, this city is a historic delight, crowned by the hilltop Bitchu-Matsuyama Castle. One of Japan’s 12 original surviving castles, visitors may ascend Mount Katsuyama via chairlift to admire the complex that includes two keeps, multiple turrets and cherry blossom-fringed grounds.

Freechoice:
Highlights of Matsuyama: Explore Matsuyama Castle atop Mount Katsuyama, visit Isite-ji Temple, and stroll through Dogo Onsen, one of Japan’s oldest hot springs.

Dogo Hot Spring Bath: Bathe at Asuka-no-Yu in Dogo Onsen, famed for 3,000 years of history. Admire its unique Asuka-style architecture and browse Haikara Street shops.

Tobe Ware Pottery: Witness the creation of Tobe’s distinctive blue-patterned porcelain. Tour En-no-sato and Tobe Old Days Life & Art Museum.

Ozu Walking Tour with Lunch: Discover Ozu’s Edo-era charm on a guided tour. Visit historic sites like Garyu Sanso villa, enjoy local shops, and savor a traditional lunch.

Sail into the petite seaside city of Uwajima this morning. Sitting on the Bungo Channel, Uwajima’s pristine waters are perfect for pearling and fishing with the city offering many ways to discover both.

Not far beyond the city limits, tenderly preserved townships nestle into iridescently green mountains that conceal dramatic gorges, such as Nametoko. Inhale the fresh mountain air and keep an eye out for deer, hawks and monkeys.

Enjoy the local specialty of jakoten, dried fish cake, or return to the incredible eateries aboard your Discovery Yacht for lunch. Spend the afternoon unwinding in the elegant Scenic Lounge.

Freechoice:
History of Uwajima:Visit Uwajima Castle, built by Lord Tohdoh Takatora, a well-preserved donjon and national cultural asset. Explore the Uwajima City Date Museum and Tenshaen Garden, a scenic garden created by the Date Clan in 1866.

Pearl Farming and Yusu Terrace Field:Tour the Yusu-Mizugaura terrace fields, an iconic cultural landscape with stunning views. Then, visit Doi Pearl to learn about Uwajima's renowned pearl farming.

Japanese Carpentry Skills and Traditional Festival Dance: Visit Yoshida Fureai Kuniyasu no Sato, a historical Edo-period site. Watch a myadaiku (shrine carpenter) demonstrate his craft at Hoketsuya and visit Tenshaen Garden for a Sansa-odori dance performance.

Kagoshima city is the capital of Kagoshima prefecture and also Kyushu’s southernmost major city. This city is often compared to its Italian sister city Naples, due to its’s similarities such as mild climate and active volcano, Sakurajima. Sakurajima is one of the most renowned active volcanos not only in Japan but also in the whole entire world. This smoking Sakurajima is centred in Kinko Bay and is one of the main symbols of this prefecture. We cannot talk about Sakurajima without the history of continuous eruption. Sakurajima used to be an isolated island; however, the land has banded together with Osumi peninsula from the eruption in 1914. You may have a chance to see the smoke coming from the top of Sakurajima depending on the weather condition. Not only does the scenery of Sakurajima represent the beauty of Kagoshima City but Senganen garden is also symbolic to elegance in the Kagoshima region. This Japanese garden was constructed by a feudal lord, Mitsuhisa Shimazu, as a guest house of the Kagoshima castle which attracts many visitors for its splendid view.

Relish a morning coffee on your private verandah as you admire the dramatic landscape of Kagoshima. At the southern tip of Kyushu, the Mount Sakurajima volcano rises sharply from the ocean, keeping watch over Kagoshima and painting a handsome and attention-stealing backdrop.

Unearth the feudal history and explore the palm-lined streets of Kagoshima or opt to spend the day on board, appreciating the stunning aspects of Sakurajima from the elegant Sky Bar. Take in the sun in a secluded cabana, revive with a dip in the Vitality pool and sip your favourite cocktail from the bar.

Freechoice:
Highlights of Kagoshima: Travel by ferry to Sakurajima Island to view spectacular lava fields. Visit Sengan-en, a serene landscape garden.

Chiran Samurai Residence & Peace Museum: Visit the well-preserved residences and gardens of the Samurai and the Chiran Peace Memorial Museum.

Ibusuki Sand Bath Experience: Discover one of Japan's most celebrated hot springs for a sand bath experience.

Makurazaki Dashi Workshop: Tour the Bonito Flakes Factory. Enjoy a workshop before a tasting.

Kagoshima City History: Visit Sengan-en and delve into the history of Kagoshima at the Reimeikan museum.

Satsuma Ware and Gold Mine Shochu: This tour showcases two of Kagoshima's specialties, shochu and satsuma-yaki.

Awaken to watch the sun dance across the crystalline waters of World Heritage-listed site Amami Oshima. The largest island in the Satsunan chain, Amami Oshima is an unspoiled haven for a diverse eco-system of endemic flora and fauna.

Stroll the soft-sand beaches and swim in the temperate waters of this natural gem. Uncover the immaculate beauty of the protected Kuroshio-no-Mori Mangrove Park. Be sure to take the opportunity to sample the local specialty of Keihan chicken rice, a dish whose origins can be traced back to the Edo period.

Freechoice:
Highlights of Amami: Visit Oshima Tsumugimura and learn the process of how the kimono is made. Travel to Amami Park for exhibits on the history and culture of Amami and the works of artist Tanaka Isson. Stop in at the Cape Ayamaru Observatory.

Amami Nature Walk: Visit the Amami Nature Forest for a 90-minute guided walk along a well-maintained trail through the deep forest and its wildlife.

Mangrove Canoeing: Travel to Amami Mangrove Park for a pleasant canoe ride along a river surrounded by mangroves and visit the Amami-Oshima World Heritage Conservation Center.

Okinawa is rich with tradition and fascinating history. Known as a "Blue Zone" - a place recognised for its long-lived and health-conscious residents; the island has a captivating heritage enhanced by its breathtaking Pacific Island beauty.

Explore the prefectural capital of Naha to discover the former epicentre of the Ryukyu Kingdom. You may visit Kokusai Street to shop for mementos and absorb the vibrant local culture or perhaps learn more about the Shuri Castle and the historic precinct. Alternatively, enjoy a swim in the shimmering ocean before retreating to your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht.

Freechoice:
History of Naha at a Glance: Visit Shuri Castle, the symbol of Naha, and the Okinawa Prefectural Museum for an overview of the history and tradition of the island.

Southern Okinawa Panoramic: Drive by bus to the iconic Shuri Castle compounds which can be seen from afar, and then southeast towards the Niraikanai Bridge for spectacular views.

Gangala Valley Nature Walk: Enjoy a guided 90-minute walk through Gangala Valley, created when a stalactite cave collapsed.

After a restorative night of rest in your luxurious suite and signature Scenic Slumber Bed, wake on your own timetable. The day is yours to spend as you wish. Perhaps ask your butler to bring you breakfast in bed or dine with your new friends at the Yacht Club.

Today, discover Naha further, immersing yourself in its vibrant ambience, especially along Kokusai Dori, known as the "international street," and the charming Makishi Public Market, where you can find an array of vibrant fish, local delicacies, and aromatic spices.

Freechoice:
Battle of Okinawa: Learn about the somber history of Okinawa during WWII and visit the famous Peace Memorial Park and Museum.

Beauty of Ryukyu Kingdom: Immerse yourself in the culture of Naha. Visit some important sites in Ryukyu culture.

Karate Workshop and Shuri Castle: Learn about karate, a world-famous form of martial arts originating in Okinawa.

Gangala Valley Nature Walk: Enjoy a guided 90-minute walk through Gangala Valley, created when a stalactite cave collapsed.

Culture and Traditions of the Ryukyu Kingdom: Visit Shuri Castle, a local art studio and Seifa Utaki, the spiritual centre of Okinawa. Enjoy traditional cuisine at a local restaurant.

This morning, wake up to find Ishigaki Island beckoning beyond your balcony in a dazzling spectrum of blue-green hues. Part of the Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park, the island is home to Japan’s southernmost city and the gateway to the captivating Yaeyama Islands.

Revel in the sun, sea and vibrant coral reef of the island’s southern coastline or stroll the fascinating city centre. Back on board, relax at the Scenic Bar and Lounge then choose from up to 10 dining experiences.

Freechoice:
Banna Park and Ishigaki Stalactite Cave: A half-day tour to the illuminated Ishigaki Stalactite Cave and Banna Park, a vast nature nature park centered around Mt. Banna.

History and Culture of Ishigaki: Discover Torinji, the oldest Buddhist temple in the Yaeyama region and one of the few buildings in Okinawa to survive WWII.

Easy Ishigaki: A relaxed tour of some of the best known sights of Ishigaki, including Yonekoyaki Craft Center.

One of the world’s biggest producers of marble, Hualin is the largest city on the east coast of Taiwan. Sitting on the mountain-fringed plains just south of the Taroko Gorge, it is a great location from which to explore Taroko National Park.

The city of Hualien sits on the east coast of the island of Taiwan, famed for its beautiful coastline. It’s the gateway to Taroko Gorge National Park, one of Taiwan’s most famous sites.

The landscape of Taroko Gorge has been formed by the great forces of nature, from typhoons and earthquakes to millions of years of erosion. Today, it is a patchwork of marble gorges, bright blue rivers and pockets of untouched forest dotted with ancient temples, tumbling waterfalls and hidden caves.

Freechoice:
Taroko Gorge National Park: Explore the Taroko Gorge National Park, visiting Swallow Grotto, admiring the Tunnels of Nine Turns, and crossing the Buluowan Suspension Bridge.

Hualien City Tour: Discover the city’s rich cultural history and stunning views of Hualien Port and the Pacific. Visit Pine Garden, a historic Shinto shrine, and Kang Ten Temple.

Full Day Active Taroko Gorge Highlights: Explore Taroko National Park’s stunning marble canyons and the Liwu River. Hike the Shakadang and Baiyang Waterfall Trails, admire the Buluowan Suspension Bridge, and visit the Eternal Spring Shrine, a memorial to those who died building the Central Cross-Island Highway. 

With the glittering lights of Taipei - a futuristic metropolis of culture and ideas - sparkling nearby, Keelung is the first calling point for many visitors arriving in Taiwan. While this port city essentially serves as Taipei's ocean gateway, you shouldn’t be too hasty in dashing off to Taipei's neon-lit magic – first it’s well worth spending some time exploring the famous glowing night market, which hums with life each evening and is famous for its local seafood.

Today, it is time to farewell Scenic Eclipse II after 17 incredible days on board. Be sure to fit in one last indulgent breakfast at the Yacht Club or ask your butler to bring coffee to your suite so you can take your time packing up.

If you would like to explore more of Taiwan, Scenic can arrange post-cruise accommodation and suggest tours or activities.

Please book your flight to depart out of Taipei after 12:00 PM.

#Spa treatments at additional cost. +All drinks on board, including those stocked in your mini bar, are included, except for a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, Champagnes and spirits. Specialty restaurants require a reservation, enquire on board.  ^Helicopter and submersible is not in operation in Japan.

The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the voyage will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.