Dynasties & Rising Suns

Nestled between striking mountains and a picturesque harbor, Kobe offers a blend of cosmopolitan elegance and rich culinary heritage, as the city is renowned globally for its legendary marbled beef. Beyond the parks, museums and restaurants along the waterfront, this port also serves as a gateway to Japan’s most revered cultural treasures. A brief journey transports you to the timeless temples and exquisite Zen gardens of Kyoto, home to numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites. Explore another ancient capital in Nara, where sacred sika deer roam freely across Nara Park, guiding travelers toward the UNESCO-protected Great Buddha housed within the monumental wooden architecture of Todai-ji Temple. In the nearby city of Osaka, the sweeping majesty of Osaka Castle contrasts with the neon-illuminated wonderland of Dotonbori in Japan’s foodie capital.

Begin your immersion into local culture at the remarkably well-preserved Kochi Castle, one of Japan’s few surviving castles from the 17th century. The architectural marvel offers breathtaking views of the thriving cityscape and surrounding grounds, especially stunning during cherry blossom season. Wander alongside fellow explorers through the vibrant Chikurin-ji Temple, a sacred retreat renowned for its tranquil gardens and profound spiritual resonance. Conclude your day of discovery at the scenic shores of Katsurahama Beach, where the rhythmic waves of the Pacific Ocean invite quiet reflection.

Step ashore in the town of Miyanoura to discover the island of Yakushima, a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated as the "Galapagos of the East” due to its ancient forests and rare flora. Dramatic topography from the mountains to the sea fosters a unique biodiversity that invites endless exploration. Journey into the primordial heart of the island to wander the enchanting trails draped in emerald moss at Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine — the stunning landscape that inspired the famous anime film Princess Mononoke. Breathe in the fragrant air as you stand beneath ancient Yakusugi cedars, including the majestic Jomon Sugi that has stood for millennia. This immersive expedition through mist-shrouded rainforests to hidden waterfalls promises an unforgettable encounter with nature’s most pristine and powerful wonders.

The island of Amami Oshima is a pristine UNESCO World Heritage site where untouched subtropical landscapes invite boundless exploration. Navigate by kayak through the island’s expansive, labyrinthine mangrove forests and watch for rare endemic wildlife like the Amami rabbit. Or simply relax on one of the island’s white-sand beaches before going for a swim in waters that shimmer in shades so distinctive they’ve been dubbed “Amami blue.” Beyond its raw natural majesty, the island harbors deep cultural treasures. Immerse yourself in the meticulous artistry of Oshima Tsumugi, a centuries-old, mud-dyed silk-weaving tradition renowned for its profound elegance, or catch a performance of shima-uta, a musical genre featuring falsetto vocal acrobatics that originated here.

Motobu invites you to explore the serene beaches and turquoise waters of the Motobu Peninsula, where Japan’s tropical allure takes center stage. Discover the region’s remarkable marine biodiversity at the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, one of the largest in the world, and stand in awe as whale sharks and manta rays glide gracefully through colossal aquatic habitats. You can also witness marine life in its natural setting by snorkeling Okinawa’s famed coral reefs in search of tropical fish and sea turtles. Beyond this vibrant underwater world, immerse yourself in the authentic island spirit by wandering through traditional Ryukyu villages lined with ancient stone walls and the nearby ruins of Nakijin Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Gliding through the pristine Amakusa archipelago, your arrival at Ushibuka, on the island of Shimoshima, reveals a traditional fishing village with a coastal skyline gracefully defined by the modern curves of the Ushibuka Haiya Bridge, designed by renowned Italian architect Renzo Piano. Beyond the vibrant waterfront, a brief journey transports you to the UNESCO World Heritage village of Sakitsu, where a picturesque Gothic church honors the region’s hidden heritage of Christians who practiced in secret during the Edo period’s ban on the religion. Returning seaward, a scenic boat tour unveils lush, tranquil coves along the The vibrant capital of Okinawa, Naha seamlessly melds the ancient legacy of the Ryukyu Kingdom with modern island energy. Ascend to the scarlet majesty of the reconstructed Shuri Castle, a captivating UNESCO World Heritage site that stands as a proud testament to the island’s regal past. For a moment of quiet reflection, seek out the tranquil beauty of Shikina-en Garden, where elegant wooden pavilions and arched bridges are reflected in placid ponds surrounded by forest. Then immerse yourself in the rhythms of Kokusai-dori, a lively street offering local crafts, traditional dance performances and authentic Okinawan culinary treasures like soba and braised pork belly.

Gliding through the pristine Amakusa archipelago, your arrival at Ushibuka, on the island of Shimoshima, reveals a traditional fishing village with a coastal skyline gracefully defined by the modern curves of the Ushibuka Haiya Bridge, designed by renowned Italian architect Renzo Piano. Beyond the vibrant waterfront, a brief journey transports you to the UNESCO World Heritage village of Sakitsu, where a picturesque Gothic church honors the region’s hidden heritage of Christians who practiced in secret during the Edo period’s ban on the religion. Returning seaward, a scenic boat tour unveils lush, tranquil coves along the The vibrant capital of Okinawa, Naha seamlessly melds the ancient legacy of the Ryukyu Kingdom with modern island energy. Ascend to the scarlet majesty of the reconstructed Shuri Castle, a captivating UNESCO World Heritage site that stands as a proud testament to the island’s regal past. For a moment of quiet reflection, seek out the tranquil beauty of Shikina-en Garden, where elegant wooden pavilions and arched bridges are reflected in placid ponds surrounded by forest. Then immerse yourself in the rhythms of Kokusai-dori, a lively street offering local crafts, traditional dance performances and authentic Okinawan culinary treasures like soba and braised pork belly.

This idyllic island paradise is celebrated worldwide for the mesmerizing spectrum of its signature "Miyako blue" waters. Step ashore to discover the flawless white sands of Yonaha Maehama Beach, consistently ranked among Japan’s finest and most pristine coastlines. Or plunge into the ocean to snorkel through the vibrant coral reefs off Yoshino Beach. Two sweeping architectural gems — Irabu Bridge and Kurima Bridge — connect Miyakojima to nearby islands and offer striking perspectives on the uniquely sculpted topography of the island landscapes and the myriad shades of blue, ranging from deep cobalt to vivid aquamarine, created by the varying depths of the waters and the sandy white seabeds.

In this town and island of the same name, remarkably blue seas meet pristine beaches and lush interior landscapes. Take a glass-bottom boat across Kabira Bay to view colorful coral reefs, giant clams and sea turtles, or head to Tamatorizaki Observatory for scenic vistas of the island and surrounding seas from above. Experience Okinawan culture at Ishigaki Yaima Village, an open-air museum where you can explore traditional Ryukyu homes, enjoy a folkloric performance on the sanjin — a three-stringed lute — and observe the local squirrel monkeys. A quick ferry ride transports you to the untamed mangrove jungles of Iriomote Island or the timeless charm of Taketomi Island, home to a traditional Ryukyu village landscape, quiet lanes of coral sand and cultural experiences like riding a water buffalo cart while being serenaded by a local guide. You might also discover the intricate artistry of traditional Yaeyama textiles or savor the distinct flavors of local Okinawan cuisine.

The bustling port of Keelung is your gateway to Taiwan’s capital of Taipei, where ultramodern architecture juxtaposes beautifully with ancient traditions. Take one of the world’s fastest elevators to the observatory of Taipei 101, an iconic skyscraper piercing the clouds above the mountain scenery that cradles the city. Explore the National Palace Museum, home to a massive collection of imperial treasures, or wander the grand plazas and elegant colonnades of the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall. Take a moment for quiet reflection within the serene Longshan Temple before allowing the enticing aromas of Taipei’s street food culture to draw you in. Sample signature bites such as steamed soup dumplings, pepper pork buns, mango shaved ice and Taiwan’s famous bubble tea.

The East China Sea blends ancient maritime history with breathtaking beauty. Stand on the yacht’s open decks and gaze upon emerald waters that once carried adventurous silk traders. Along the skyline, watch for glimpses of verdant, misty islands rising dramatically from the sea. You might spy playful dolphins in the yacht’s wake and seabirds floating on the ocean breezes as you anticipate the next exciting destination awaiting just beyond the horizon. Please note: Navigation times may change at the Captain’s discretion.

Hong Kong dazzles with contrasts — ascend Victoria Peak for panoramic skyline views and then amble along the Avenue of Stars for an iconic street-level scene. Stroll the vibrant Mong Kok markets, shop in Central’s designer boutiques, or witness living tradition as incense curls through Man Mo Temple. Sail the historic Star Ferry across Victoria Harbour, meander through art-filled Tai Kwun galleries, or seek tranquility in lush Nan Lian Garden. If you linger into the evening, check out the entertainment district of Lan Kwai Fong, and don’t miss the nightly Symphony of Lights. The city’s culinary scene also shines, from bustling dim sum teahouses to Michelin-starred sophistication.