| | | | | Arrive | Depart |
| 20th20 | MayMay | 202525 | Tokyo, Japan, embark on the Scenic Eclipse II | | |
| Lights, sushi, manga! Sprawling, frenetic, and endlessly fascinating, Japan’s capital is a city of contrasts. Shrines and gardens are pockets of calm between famously crowded streets and soaring office buildings. Mom-and-pop noodle houses share street space with Western-style chain restaurants and exquisite fine dining. Shopping yields lovely folk arts as well as the newest electronics. And nightlife kicks off with karaoke or sake and continues with techno clubs and more. Whether you seek the traditional or the cutting edge, Tokyo will provide it. Arrive in the diverse and charismatic city of Tokyo today. Japan’s capital is a thrilling metropolis dotted with endlessly fascinating neighbourhoods. Your journey of wonder begins as soon as you step on board Scenic Eclipse II. You’ll be warmly greeted by the crew and shown to your luxurious verandah suite. Take some time to settle in, meet your personal butler and pick the perfect pillow from the plush pillow menu. Explore your luxurious Discovery Yacht before dinner, from the inviting Sky Bar and outdoor Vitality Pool on Deck 10 to the indulgent Senses Spa on Deck 6 and the Observation Lounge and Terrace on Deck 5. Toast to the begin of this once-in-a-lifetime journey looking out to the twinkling lights of Tokyo as we depart port. Please book your flight to arrive into Tokyo prior to 02:00 PM. |
| 21st21 | MayMay | 202525 | Shimizu, Japan | | |
| The salt and pepper cone of Japan's most famous natural landmark won’t fail to take your breath away, as it soars into the sky in a vision of spectacular symmetry. Make sure your camera is fully prepared before you dock in Shimizu’s port, where unparalleled views of the extraordinary Mount Fuji’s dramatic peak await. Take your time to soak up one of Japan's most iconic views, before dipping your toes into the rest of what this destination of tranquil temples has to offer. While there’s a bustling fish market, and a charming amusement park waiting close to the port, most new arrivals immediately set off in pursuit of the best views of Mount Fuji, or to see the stunning panorama on offer from the heights of the Kunozan Toshogu Shrine. Take the cable car up to the top, to experience the tranquillity around the forested shrine, and to enjoy its stunning architecture of deep scarlets and gleaming golds. You can also enjoy heart-stopping views out over the Bay of Suruga, and the tea plantations below. This morning, request breakfast to be served on your 6-star suite, and have your camera on-hand to photograph your sail toward the small but stunning town of Shimizu. Backdropped by the majesty of Mount Fuji, you’ll soon understand why Shimizu is considered one of Japan’s most beautiful ports. With a history dating back to the Nara Period (710–784) and endowed with stunning natural scenery, such as the silvery wisps of Shiraito Falls flowing from the Fuji’s foothills, Shimizu is brimming with inspiring sights. Discover rich Japanese culture and history at nearby shrines, stroll the centre of town to immerse in local life, and admire the World Heritage-Listed site and highest peak in Japan, mighty Mount Fuji. Return to your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht to dine with new friends at one of the all-inclusive exquisite culinary experiences on board. |
| 22nd22 | MayMay | 202525 | Toba, Japan | | |
Awaken today in the pretty, pearlescent Toba on the Shima Peninsula in Mie Prefecture. This small city is enrobed by the Ise-Shima National Park and rotates through a seasonal spectrum of colours from the soft pink of cherry blossoms in spring, to the vivid greens of summer vegetation, and the red-and-gold hues of autumn. Toba is perhaps best-known for its oyster and pearling industries, particularly its female pearl divers, or ‘ama’. Discover more about this tradition on Mikimoto Pearl Island, where you can learn all about the cultivation of pearls in the museum, watch ama demonstrations, and shop for exquisite mementos. Spend another indulgent evening on board Scenic Eclipse watching the ocean darken with nightfall as you enjoy a cocktail at the Observation Deck or Panorama Bar. |
| 23rd23 | MayMay | 202525 | Kobe, Japan | | |
| 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. Yet, despite its centuries-old role as a significant port, 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 and indulge in a massage or treatment^, or refresh with a haircut at the salon. |
| 24th24 | MayMay | 202525 | Uno, Japan | | |
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. Choose to spend your day strolling immaculately manicured gardens, admiring historic architecture or contemplating thought-provoking art. Okayama is home to the stunning Korakuen Garden, which was commissioned by a feudal lord in 1687 as a place to receive guests. Styled in the traditional Japanese aesthetic with elegant ponds, bridges and sculptural plants, the Korakuen is ranked as one of the top three landscaped gardens in Japan. It sits across the Asahi River from Okayama Castle; dubbed ‘Crow Castle’ due to its black exterior, visitors can tour the historical exhibits here and take a bizen-yaki pottery class in the castle park studio. Return to your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht this evening and unwind with a cocktail in one of the all-inclusive nine bars and lounges. |
| 25th25 | MayMay | 202525 | Takamatsu, Japan | | |
| 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 you 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. A spectacular feat of engineering, the bridge lays out stunning views of this beautiful archipelago. 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. |
| 26th26 | MayMay | 202525 | Takamatsu, Japan | | |
| 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. Wake this morning to vibrant Takamatsu beckoning you from the sophisticated spaces of Scenic Eclipse. The flat-topped mountain of Yashima was the site of an important battle between rival clans in the 12th century. Yashima’s lofty vantage also treats visitors to breathtaking panoramic vistas and inspires reverence with a traditional temple. Closeby is the picturesque island of Ogijima. This small but beautiful slip of land will captivate with its serenity. You may have the opportunity to walk to the lighthouse and explore the labyrinthine laneways of the traditional village. Ogijima’s sister island, Megijima is also accessed by a ferry from Takamatsu. The forested mountains of the island are enshrined in folklore and nicknamed ‘Ogre Island’ on account of a local legend. Stroll the atmospheric village, take in the sea air, and glimpse the Seto Inland Sea from the mountaintop. |
| 27th27 | MayMay | 202525 | Hiroshima, Japan | | |
| 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. Arriving into port this morning, your day may begin with a moment of reflection on a visit to Hiroshima. Perhaps one of the most significant sites of modern warfare, this city ravaged by the atomic bomb during World War II has risen to become a living symbol of peace and rebirth. Enrobed in sombre history, inspiring perspective, and striking natural beauty, Hiroshima is a destination you will long remember. Visit the Peace Memorial Park and World Heritage listed Atomic Bomb Dome, where you can absorb the importance of Hiroshima’s history and admire the city’s determination to endure and overcome. Return aboard in time for a long, leisurely lunch at one of the refined and relaxed eateries, such as Azure Bar & Café or the Yacht Club, as you journey toward the small island of Miyajima this afternoon. Well-loved for its serene, water hemmed views, Miyajima (which translates to ‘Shrine Island’ in Japanese) is known for its Itsukushima shrine and enormous torii gate, which, at high tide, appears to float above the water. |
| 27th27 | MayMay | 202525 | Itsukushima, Japan | | |
| 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. |
| 28th28 | MayMay | 202525 | At Sea | | |
| 29th29 | MayMay | 202525 | Sokcho, South Korea | | |
| Vibrant urban activity is juxtaposed with dramatic mountain ridges and beautiful beaches in Sokcho, South Korea. Many tourists come to this city of approximately 90,000 residents to visit Seoraksan National Park, home of the highest mountain in Gangwon-doProvince and the third highest mountain in South Korea. The city and mountain range attracts national and internationally visitors year-round, but particularly in autumn, when the foliage is at its height (and considered the most beautiful in Korea). Visitors to Sokcho can also visit hot springs, beaches, or view one of the several well-preserved Buddha statues located in temples throughout the city. This morning, savour breakfast to your exact taste delivered by your butler to your private 6-star suite. Admire the South Korean port of Sokcho approaching from your verandah and start planning the day ahead. A quaint fishing town, Sokcho was part of North Korea until the end of the Korean War in 1945. Today, its pretty beach and location as the gateway to Seoraksan National Park make it a lively tourist hub. Incredibly fresh seafood is another huge attraction here. As you stroll around the city, perhaps sample locally caught specialties at the Sokcho Central Market, where you can enjoy the day’s catch alongside other Korean favourites. To take in the unrelenting beauty of the landscape, make your way to the Lighthouse Observatory or head to the Seoraksan National Park. Inhale the fresh forest air and listen to the tranquil song of gently flowing rivers. As the lights of Sokcho fade into the distance, find the perfect spot on the Observation Terrace to farewell your first South Korean port with a glass of Champagne or your favourite cocktail in hand. |
| 30th30 | MayMay | 202525 | Pohang-si, South Korea | | |
Today your journey reveals the artful and natural beauty of P’ohang on the eastern side of the Yongil Gulf in South Korea. Hwanho Park has an incredible rollercoaster-like Space Walk, a walkable sculpture that lays out a path of fantastic, mind-bending loops and bestows walkers with photogenic views of the harbour and city. Deep dive into P’ohang’s history as a steel-making city with a roam through the Museum of Steel Art. Be sure to snap a photo of the remarkable The Hand of Mutual Shake bronze sculpture at Homigot Sunrise Plaza, which was created in 1999 at the eastern tip of the Korean Peninsula. Return to exchange stories of the day with your fellow Scenic Eclipse guests over a drink in the Scenic Lounge Bar, before relishing a perfectly refined French meal at Lumière. |
| 31st31 | MayMay | 202525 | Busan, South Korea | | |
| White-sand city beaches and hot-spring resorts may not be everyone's first image of Korea, but these are what Koreans flock to Busan for all year. And there are plenty of opportunities for rest, relaxation, retail therapy, and even a touch of glamour every October with the Busan International Film Festival. Busan's beaches are the big summertime draw but there is plenty to be seen year round. Quintessential experiences include taking some rest and relaxation at a local spa and exploring the Beomeosa temple complex. Let the day unfurl in relaxation as you awake in your 6-Star ultra-luxury suite and choose one of the many incredible experiences on board your Discovery Yacht. As you sail toward the South Korean port of Busan, spend the morning rejuvenating in the expansive Senses Spa, partake in an Aerial Yoga class, unwind on the Senses Pool Deck or simply catch up on world events with a newspaper. Arriving in Busan in time for lunch, disembark to revel in the seaside city’s urban beaches, laidback atmosphere and tempting street food culture. As South Korea’s second-largest city, Busan has a vibrant, international energy that blends contemporary and traditional life Tonight, you may choose to spend the evening in the privacy of your spacious ultra-luxury suite or enjoying your Discovery Yacht’s entertainment program in the state-of-the-art theatre. |
| 1st01 | JunJun | 202525 | Nagasaki, Japan | | |
| Nagasaki city has developed into one of the most important port cities in Japan. During Japan’s period of isolation in the 17th century, Nagasaki played a prominent role in foreign trade relation and only a very few ports were open to restricted numbers of foreign traders. Even though Holland was a major country who conducted trading during this period, Dutch people were only allowed to stay in Dejima Island and were not allowed to have contact with the Japanese people. Today, you will still find the strong influence of Dutch and Chinese culture in the city which is very different from all other cities in Japan. In the more recent history, Nagasaki became the second city after Hiroshima to be destroyed by an atomic bomb towards the end of World War II. From the visit to Atomic bomb museum and peace memorial park, people could understand how chaotic the situation was and the agony that the people in the days have experienced from the damage inflicted by the atomic bomb. It continues to appeal to the world with their wish for world peace. This morning you will again greet the Land of the Rising Sun as you arrive early at the beautiful city of Nagasaki on the island of Kyushu. While Nagasaki has a long and prosperous history of international trade, its modern history has largely been overshadowed by World War II. The second site to suffer the catastrophic effects of the atomic bomb, the city has been rebuilt and reforged with resilience and optimism. Unravel that journey of rebirth at one of the many moving museums and memorials, such as Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum, Peace Park, and National Peace Memorial Hall. You’ll also revel in a deeper past at the Nagasaki Museum of History and Culture and the Suwa-jinja shrine. Later this afternoon, enjoy a cocktail from the Sky Bar on Deck 10 as we sail under the Megami Bridge. Tonight Scenic Eclipse remains in Nagasaki before sailing to Hashima Island in the morning. |
| 2nd02 | JunJun | 202525 | Hashima, Japan | | |
This morning, glimpse the passing sea while wrapped in the unparalleled comfort of Scenic’s signature Slumber Bed as we journey to Hashima Island. Relish breakfast on board before exploring this intriguing destination. Dubbed ‘Gunkanjima’, meaning ‘battleship island’, due to its shape, this World Heritage-listed site is, in fact, a historic coal mine. Now uninhabited, the small 480-metre-long and 150-metre-wide island was once home to 5,000 people, making it the most densely populated area ever recorded. Abandoned in 1974, the island’s structures have since deteriorated, imbuing it with a haunting atmosphere. After touring the island, return to the ultra-luxury of your Discovery Yacht for an afternoon of indulgent relaxation in a cabana by the Scandinavian-inspired vitality pools. Come evening, relish an all-inclusive dining experience in one of the up to 10 world-class options on board Scenic Eclipse. |
| 3rd03 | JunJun | 202525 | Kagoshima, Japan | | |
| 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 on your journey toward the city. At the southern tip of Kyushu, Mount Sakurajima volcano rises dramatically 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. |
| 4th04 | JunJun | 202525 | Kochi, Japan | | |
Take advantage of Scenic Eclipse's unique open bridge policy to appreciate the sunrise alongside the crew, enjoying unrivalled access to the ship's ultimate viewing area. Learn about the supreme technical abilities of The World’s First Discovery YachtTM as you approach Kochi on Shikoku Island. A place to unearth traditional Japanese culture, the small city of Kochi is a path less travelled for many, making it ripe for your discovery. Walk the streets downtown to observe daily life; explore Kochi Castle; visit Chikurinji Temple at Godaisan Mountain; or perhaps stroll the promenade at Katsurahama Beach. Return to your Discovery Yacht and settle into one of the nine bars and lounges on board, where you might try a new premium wine from the extensive and elegant list curated by Scenic’s Master of Wine. Or toast another day of wonder in the singular luxury of your exquisitely appointed suite with a beverage from the all-inclusive minibar. |
| 5th05 | JunJun | 202525 | Osaka, Japan | | |
| 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. Celebrate the final day of your inspiring voyage with a Champagne breakfast on your elegant verandah. Today’s journey uncovers the thrilling city of Osaka, Japan’s third-largest metropolis after Tokyo and Yokohama. At once spirited and relaxed, Osaka is a dynamic city best loved for its culinary excellence, exuberant nightlife and vibrant locals. Wander the busy streets to pull the thread of what makes this exciting hub so absorbing, then visit Osaka Castle to marvel at the city’s deep history. Spend the afternoon visiting the beautiful Sumiyoshi Taisha Shinto shrine, dedicated to sea-faring deities, and historic Shitennoji, which is one of Japan’s oldest temples. As evening envelops the city, encounter Osaka’s bustling nightlife. Or return to the elevated indulgence of Scenic Eclipse to share a meal with your new friends on your last night on board. |
| 6th06 | JunJun | 202525 | Osaka, Japan, disembark the Scenic Eclipse II | | |
| 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. You’ll disembark Scenic Eclipse after breakfast. Farewell the crew and fellow guests, taking with you memories of a truly unforgettable ultra-luxury experience on board The World's First Discovery Please book your flight to depart out of Osaka after 12:00 PM. The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the cruise will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information. |
