NOT INCLUDED Additional/optional costs may include: optional single supplement, optional upgrade to Veranda Suite (with balcony) or higher, optional travel insurance, meals not included in the itinerary (pre- and post-cruise), optional activities not included in the itinerary, optional Tour Director's gratuities, and personal expenses. Please note: Since this journey is run by a third party, Silversea Cruises, Sights and Soul Travels' alumna certificates and cancellation vouchers are not valid |  Tour Director: Marta Jochym Japan is a captivating blend of ancient traditions and dazzling modernity, and this extraordinary voyage is designed to showcase the very best of this remarkable country. Sailing aboard Silversea Silver Moon luxury cruise, we’ll embark on an unforgettable journey through Japan’s vibrant cities, serene landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, all while enjoying the unparalleled elegance and world-class service of Silversea. Our adventure begins in the dynamic city of Tokyo, where centuries-old shrines and tranquil gardens exist harmoniously alongside futuristic skyscrapers and neon-lit streets. Here, we’ll savor exceptional Japanese cuisine, experience the beauty of traditional tea ceremonies, and immerse ourselves in the energy of one of the world’s most fascinating capitals. From Tokyo, we’ll sail to Kobe, a sophisticated port city renowned for its cosmopolitan charm, scenic harbor views, and world-famous Kobe beef. Continuing to Kochi, we’ll discover a more traditional side of Japan, with its historic castle, lively markets, and warm local hospitality. Our voyage then brings us to Hiroshima, where poignant memorials and the beautiful Peace Memorial Park stand as powerful symbols of resilience and hope. From there, we journey beyond Japan’s shores to Busan, South Korea, a vibrant coastal city where bustling fish markets, colorful neighborhoods, and serene Buddhist temples create an unforgettable cultural experience. Returning to Japan, we arrive in Kanazawa, one of the country’s best-preserved historic cities. Wander through charming samurai districts, admire traditional teahouses, and visit the celebrated Kenrokuen Garden, considered one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan. Next, we sail north to Aomori, a gateway to Japan’s natural beauty and rich artistic traditions, where dramatic landscapes and fascinating cultural treasures await. Our final stop is Hakodate on the island of Hokkaido, famed for its fresh seafood, historic architecture, and the spectacular panoramic views from Mount Hakodate, especially breathtaking at sunset. As our voyage returns to Tokyo, A luxury Japan Silversea cruise provides a harmonious blend of cultural immersion, reflecting on the unforgettable experiences we’ve shared — from vibrant cities and ancient traditions to breathtaking scenery and culinary delights. Throughout the journey, Silversea provides the perfect balance of cultural immersion and refined luxury, with spacious suites, exceptional dining, personalized service, and panoramic ocean views. This remarkable Japan and South Korea cruise promises unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for the beauty, history, and elegance of these extraordinary destinations.  |
THE SILVERSEA MOON LUXURY CRUISE With the Japan Silversea Moon luxury cruise, we are continuing the newest chapter for Sights and Soul Travels: luxury cruises for destinations that lend themselves to touring from the sea. We can't help but be excited about this offering! It will allow a select and very fortunate group of women to embark on this port-to-port luxury cruise that will immerse us in the captivating culture and unparalleled elegance of Japan. On arrival in Tokyo, you will book a private transfer to the port. Here, you will meet your Tour Director and the rest of the Sights and Soul tour group for a festive welcome gathering. We will board the Silversea Moon luxury cruise ship and settle into our suites. The high-quality service onboard Silversea Moon imparts an all-encompassing sense of well-being from the moment we board and set sail. This is relaxation at its most distilled: we will be welcomed into the supreme luxury by a team of butlers, trained to very high standards, who will guide each of us through every aspect of our cruise. They are there to ensure that all our needs are taken care of before we even need to ask. A polite, professional, and friendly butler makes the difference between a great cruise and an amazing one. From unpacking your suitcase at the beginning of your voyage to shining your shoes and making your restaurant reservations, your butler will be happy to serve you. He or she will make sure that your room is always in pristine condition, provide white tablecloth in-suite service, and guarantee that your customized, in-suite bar is always full. From drawing a scented bath to ensuring that your every desire is fulfilled, the Silversea butler service can't be beat. But perhaps the greatest gift of the butler service is knowing that they are always there when you need them and mysteriously disappear when you don’t. Throughout the cruise, we will enjoy the 24-hour gourmet dining options inclusive of all alcoholic beverages, classy entertainment, and lectures on the history, culture, and of this unique country, and several shore excursions every day. It simply doesn’t get any better than this. All you have to do is relax and enjoy the mesmerizing beauty and culture of Japan. Indulge in a glass or a bottle of champagne, wine, beer, or spirits on the house. Your butler will also ensure that you have enough water, juices, and soft drinks in the public bars as well as in your suite. Silversea promises to keep your mini-bar full of your favorite drinks and alcoholic beverages. Your butler will replenish them daily, but if you want a little extra, just ask! No wish is too big or too small. You’ll wonder how you ever managed before! We'll enjoy our meals as a group in one of the eight fine dining restaurants onboard, or you can choose to have any meal in the comfort of your own suite. The Silversea Moon's restaurant menus are curated to be a deep-dive gourmet immersion beyond anything you have ever experienced aboard a cruise ship. Each gourmet dining option offers unforgettable food and atmosphere, creating long-lasting culinary memories. Setting sail on Silversea promises peace of mind from start to finish. That means no worrying about tipping the butlers or staff. The Silversea Moon's crew-to-guest ratio of nearly 1:1 ensures flawless service without ever needing to think about who should get a tip, how much, or when. It’s all included! Yes, really. Silversea believes that not having to deal with tipping helps make your luxury cruise even more stress-free. With the Silversea Moon and this carefully curated itinerary, we will have the fullest experience of visiting Japan. Added to that are superlative service, extreme comfort, gourmet dining, and, of course, the wonderful company of other like-minded, intelligent, and funny women traveling companions. We guarantee that this is the one adventure that you will never forget. Tokyo | Kyoto | Geishas | Kimono | Ryokan (Japanese Inn) | Ikebana | Bonsai | Tea Ceremony | Cuisine | Shopping | Books & Movies |