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Day 1: Tokyo, Japan Dense and delightful, there’s nowhere else like Japan’s kinetic capital, a city where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with a relentless pursuit of the future’s sharpest edge. Before boarding the ship, you will be able to explore Tokyo. You can see the city from above, as elevators rocket you up to towering viewing platforms, from which you can survey a vast urban ocean, interspersed with sky-scraping needles, and see as far as the distant loom of Mount Fuji on clear days. Futuristic transport seamlessly links Tokyo’s 14 districts, while the glow of flashing advertisement boards, clanks of arcade machines, and waves of humanity flowing along its streets add to the sense of mesmerizing, dizzying, and glorious sensory overload. In the evening, we'll board our luxury cruise ship, the Silver Moon, and set sail on our ultimate Japanese adventure. Day 2: Day at Sea Today, we'll spend the day at sea sailing to our next destination, Kobe. A day at sea on a Silversea luxury cruise ship in Japan is a dreamy escape filled with relaxation and indulgence. As the ship glides through the tranquil waters, we'll immerse ourselves in serenity and unwind in the lap of luxury aboard the Silver Moon. We can lounge by the pool, basking in the warm sun and enjoying refreshing drinks served by attentive staff. As the ship sails towards our next destination, we'll take advantage of the panoramic views from the deck, capturing breathtaking vistas of the vast ocean and distant islands. Throughout the day, we'll be able to indulge in gourmet dining experiences, as we savor delectable cuisine prepared by world-class chefs and paired with exquisite wines. Days 3 : Kobe, Japan In the morning, we’ll arrive in the vibrant port city of Kobe. The Japanese city of Kobe needs no introduction. The name is synonymous with its homegrown superstar. beautifully set between the mountains and the sea. Known worldwide for its famous Kobe beef, this cosmopolitan city offers far more than its celebrated cuisine. With a rich port history and a blend of cultures from around the world, Kobe has developed one of Japan’s most diverse and exciting culinary scenes, from exceptionally fresh seafood and sushi to artisan bakeries and renowned sake traditions. Today, we’ll explore this elegant city and discover its fascinating heritage, shaped by centuries of trade and its strategic location between Osaka and Kyoto. Kobe has played an important role throughout Japanese history and has been celebrated in classic literary works for generations. We’ll also have the opportunity to experience some of the region’s treasured landmarks, including the magnificent Himeji Castle, widely regarded as Japan’s most beautiful feudal castle. Surrounded by graceful architecture, scenic beauty, and rich traditions, Kobe offers a memorable glimpse into the heart of Japan. In the afternoon, we’ll return to our ship and continue sailing toward our next destination. NOTE: Other excursions can be booked through the Silversea website. Days 4: Kobe, Japan As one of Japan’s most important international ports, Kobe has long welcomed influences from around the world, creating a uniquely diverse atmosphere reflected in its architecture, culture, and exceptional culinary scene. Fresh seafood, exquisite sushi, artisan bakeries, and the region’s renowned sake all play an important role in the city’s rich gastronomic identity. Visitors can stroll through lively waterfront districts, peaceful shrines, and charming neighborhoods while discovering the refined spirit that makes Kobe so captivating. NOTE: Other excursions can be booked through the Silversea website. Day 5: Kochi, Japan Today, we’ll arrive in the charming city of Kochi, located on the southern coast of Shikoku Island and facing the vast Pacific Ocean. Rich in history, natural beauty, and culinary tradition, Kochi offers a delightful glimpse into a more tranquil side of Japan. Our half-day excursion will begin with a visit to Kochi Castle, one of only twelve original castles remaining in Japan. Distinguished by its elegant black and white tiered roofs, this beautifully preserved landmark dates back to the early 17th century. We’ll step inside to explore its authentic wooden interiors and feudal-era architecture, before ascending for sweeping views over the city, surrounding mountains, and lush countryside. Next, we’ll continue to the Makino Botanical Garden, a peaceful sanctuary named after renowned botanist Dr. Tomitaro Makino, often called the father of Japanese botany. Here, we’ll stroll through beautifully landscaped pathways and greenhouses showcasing a wide variety of native and exotic plants, offering a serene setting for relaxation and reflection. As we travel through Kochi, we’ll also gain an appreciation for the region’s spiritual heritage, with forested hillsides nearby forming part of the historic Shikoku Pilgrimage route, one of Japan’s most revered sacred journeys. Kochi is equally celebrated for its local cuisine, particularly katsuo no tataki — lightly seared skipjack tuna — as well as its long-standing sake-brewing tradition, both treasured symbols of the region’s vibrant culture. We’ll return to our ship in the afternoon. NOTE: Other excursions can be booked through the Silversea website. Day 6: Hiroshima, Japan Today, we'll arrive in the resilient city of Hiroshima. In the morning, we'll visit the heart of the city, stopping to view the skeletal remains of the former Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall in Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. The hall's hollowed dome, appropriately called the Atomic Bomb Dome, was intentionally left in ruins as a stark visual reminder of the bomb's destruction. It was the only building that was left standing close to the hypocenter of the bomb's blast. The beautifully landscaped grounds are full of heart-wrenching memorials that pay tribute to the victims of the atomic bombing. The Cenotaph stands as a solemn reminder, while the Peace Flame burns brightly, symbolizing our collective hope for a peaceful world. We'll also explore the museum which exhibits the history of Hiroshima and the day of the nuclear bomb. NOTE: Other excursions can be booked through Silversea website. Day 7: Day at Sea Today will be a relaxing day at sea, offering the perfect opportunity to unwind and enjoy the many comforts of life on board. After our recent days of exploration ashore, this is a wonderful time to slow the pace and simply enjoy the journey. You may wish to visit the spa, keep active in the fitness centre, enjoy a quiet moment with a good book, or simply relax on deck while taking in the endless ocean views. Keep watch for passing marine life, including whales and seabirds, or savour the sunshine as we sail across these tranquil waters. These peaceful sea days provide the perfect balance to our enriching days ashore, allowing time to rest, recharge, and fully appreciate the pleasure of ocean travel. Day 8: Busan, South Korea Today, we’ll arrive in Busan, South Korea’s dynamic coastal city, where mountains, beaches, and urban life come together in striking harmony. Energetic and colourful, Busan is a place of contrasts and creativity, shaped by both tradition and modern coastal living. Our exploration may include the dramatic Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, set on rugged cliffs above the East Sea, offering sweeping ocean views and a serene spiritual atmosphere. We may also visit Beomeosa Temple, a historic sanctuary founded in AD 678 on the slopes of Mount Geumjeongsan. We’ll discover the vibrant Gamcheon Culture Village, a hillside maze of painted homes, murals, and artistic spaces that has transformed into one of Busan’s most imaginative neighbourhoods. Along the coast, Busan’s beaches offer a relaxed rhythm of life — from the wide sands of Haeundae Beach to the glowing night views of Gwangalli Beach and its illuminated Gwangan Bridge. Today, we’ll experience a city where culture, creativity, and the sea meet in perfect balance. NOTE: Other excursions can be booked through the Silversea website. Day 9: Day at Sea Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side. Day 10: Kanazawa, Japan The capital of the Ishikawa Prefecture, Kanazawa once rivalled Kyoto and Edo (Tokyo) as a town rich in cultural achievements. Kanazawa escaped destruction during World War II and has been able to preserve many of the old districts. We’ll leave in the morning for a scenic drive to the Kenroku-en Garden, the celebrated "Great Garden of Japan," in the shadow of Kanazawa Castle. After admiring the garden, we’ll continue to Higashi Chaya Geisha District. Proceed to Higashi Chaya Geisha District. A Chaya, meaning teahouse, is an exclusive type of restaurant where guests are entertained by geisha who perform song and dance. Here, we’ll enjoy some free time to explore the living tapestry of the district, where the past and present seamlessly intertwine, catching glimpses of elegant geishas gracefully gliding by, their colorful kimonos adding a touch of mystique to the atmosphere. The sight of geishas going about their daily routines, along with the city's atmospheric tea houses and quaint shops showcasing exquisite handicrafts are a true testament to the preservation of Kanazawa's rich cultural traditions. In the afternoon, we'll transfer back to the ship. NOTE: Other excursions can be booked through Silversea website. Day 11: Day at Sea Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side. Day 12: Aomori, Japan Today, we’ll arrive in Aomori, a land of wild beauty and ancient heritage at the northern edge of Honshu. Deeply rooted in nature and tradition, this region reveals Japan in its most untouched and elemental form. Our journey may include the extraordinary Shirakami-Sanchi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to one of the world’s last remaining ancient beech forests. Often called the “forest of gods,” this vast wilderness remains remarkably pristine, where moss-covered trails, cascading streams, and bird-filled silence create an atmosphere of pure tranquillity. We may also step back in time at a reconstructed Jomon village, where prehistoric dwellings and exhibits offer a glimpse into Japan’s earliest known civilisation, dating back over 8,000 years. Aomori is also alive with cultural energy, especially during the spectacular Nebuta Matsuri festival. Each August, the city comes alive with illuminated floats, powerful drumming, and traditional music in a vibrant celebration of light and movement. The Nebuta Museum preserves this spirit year-round, sharing the stories behind this iconic event. Today, we’ll experience a place where ancient forests, deep history, and living traditions come together in unforgettable harmony. NOTE: Other excursions can be booked through the Silversea website. Day 13: Hakodate (Hokkaido), Japan Today, we’ll arrive in Hakodate, a captivating port city where ocean, mountains, and history come together in a spectacular coastal panorama. Set between twin bays and framed by forested peaks, Hakodate offers some of Japan’s most striking views and a rich blend of East-meets-West heritage. Our journey may begin with Mount Hakodate, where we ascend by ropeway above the city’s rooftops and pine-covered slopes. From the summit, sweeping vistas reveal the elegant curve of the coastline, glowing city lights, and the shimmering sea dotted with fishing boats. At sunset, this view becomes especially magical as Hakodate slowly transforms into a sea of light. We may also explore the historic port district, where redbrick warehouses have been beautifully repurposed into shops and cafés, standing alongside the distinctive onion domes of the Russian Orthodox Church — a reminder of Hakodate’s early role as one of Japan’s first international trading ports. Another highlight is the star-shaped Goryokaku Fort, particularly stunning in spring when cherry blossoms frame its unique design. From nearby Goryokaku Tower, we’ll enjoy a panoramic view of the fortress and the surrounding cityscape. Hakodate is also a city of exceptional seafood, where the rich plankton-filled waters yield some of Japan’s finest catches. A visit to the bustling Morning Market offers a lively glimpse into daily life, filled with fresh produce, local energy, and coastal flavors. NOTE: Other excursions can be booked through the Silversea website. Day 14: Day at Sea Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side. Day 15: Tokyo, Japan Today, we'll end our tour with our arrival in Tokyo. Sadly, this is our last day in Japan and aboard the Silver Moon Luxury Ship. We hope that you are taking home great memories of sights, experiences, and new travel friends.
Tokyo | Kyoto | Geishas | Kimono | Ryokan (Japanese Inn) | Ikebana | Bonsai | Tea Ceremony | Cuisine | Shopping | Books & Movies |