Kreuzfahrt ab
Yokohama (Tokyo)

Visit the most significant temples in Kamakura, an ancient city that was once the political center of eastern Japan. At the Jodo sect temple Hasedera, you will behold an eleven-headed wooden statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. Each face has a different expression and taken together they symbolize that Kannon hears all prayers. Similarly, Kotokuin temple is renowned for its bronze statue of Buddha. Cast in 1252, the 93-ton statue was housed inside another temple until the 15th century, when a tsunami destroyed the building. The Great Buddha is seated outdoors in the lotus position, his hands positioned in a meditative gesture. You will also explore the Tsurugaoka Hachimangu shrine, which was founded in the 11th century and dedicated to the Shinto god of war. To enter, you will pass through enormous red torii gates that are said to separate the sacred from the profane. The shrine’s lotus ponds and tree-lined lanes couldn’t be more peaceful.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Visit the ancient feudal capital of Kamakura, which first flourished in the 12th century.
• See the eleven-headed statue of Kannon at the Hasedera temple.
• Admire the massive 13th-century statue of Buddha at Kotokuin temple.
• Explore an early Shinto shrine surrounded by serene grounds and lotus ponds.

Discover two traditional and ancient sights that coexist in stark contrast with tall futuristic skyscrapers and bustling city streets. Depart the pier for the drive to the Meiji Shrine, surrounded by a dense forest glade at the very heart of Tokyo. The Meiji Shrine and its large park are dedicated to Emperor Meiji, who saw the transformation of this country from a medieval to a modern state. It was during his reign (1868 - 1912) that Edo became Japan's new capital and was renamed Tokyo. Enter the Shrine through the 40-foot-high Torii gate, one of the largest in Japan. After visiting the shrine, continue to Hama Rikyu Garden, an Edo Period Japanese garden surrounded by the Shiodome district's futuristic skyscrapers; a great example of how Japan is the land of contrasts. The garden was originally built as a feudal lord's Tokyo residence and duck hunting grounds during the Edo Period, but later served as a strolling garden and as an imperial detached palace before eventually being opened to the public in its current form. Hama Rikyu Gardens offer something beautiful at any season, as you'll find golden foliage during the fall, plum blossoms in late winter and cherry blossoms in spring. After enjoying Japanese traditional sites in Tokyo, your coach will bring you back to the port.

Discover Tokyo and two of its traditional sights that coexist in stark contrast with tall futuristic skyscrapers and bustling city streets.

A 1-hour drive takes you to the center of Tokyo, a modern city where the 21st century coexists with the spirit of ancient Japan. Along the way, you’ll see many of the city’s landmarks.

Enjoy a visit Hama Rikyu Garden, an Edo Period Japanese garden surrounded by the Shiodome district’s futuristic skyscrapers; a great example of how Japan is the land of contrasts. The garden was originally built as a feudal lord's Tokyo residence and duck hunting grounds during the Edo Period, but later served as a strolling garden and as an imperial detached palace before eventually being opened to the public in its current form. Hama Rikyu Gardens offer something beautiful at any season, as you’ll find golden foliage during the fall, plum blossoms in late winter and cherry blossoms in spring.

A scenic drive through the city takes you to the Imperial Palace, surrounded by moats and massive stone walls, also in the center of Tokyo. The palace is built on the former site of Edo Castle. It is the residence of Japan’s Imperial Family and is surrounded by a large park area. Although the Palace is not open to the public, from Kokyo Gaien, the large plaza in front of the Imperial Palace, you can view the Nijubashi, two bridges that form an entrance to the inner palace grounds. The stone bridge in front is nicknamed the Eyeglass Bridge for its looks and is one of the most recognized bridges in Japan. You’ll have some free time in the square to explore a bit and take some memorable pictures.

After enjoying the sites in Tokyo, tour will end at Tokyo Station

Discover Tokyo and two of its traditional sights that coexist in stark contrast with tall futuristic skyscrapers and bustling city streets. A 1-hour drive takes you to the center of Tokyo, a modern city where the 21st century coexists with the spirit of ancient Japan. Along the way, you’ll see many of the city’s landmarks.

Enjoy a visit Hama Rikyu Garden, an Edo Period Japanese garden surrounded by the Shiodome district’s futuristic skyscrapers; a great example of how Japan is the land of contrasts. The garden was originally built as a feudal lord's Tokyo residence and duck hunting grounds during the Edo Period, but later served as a strolling garden and as an imperial detached palace before eventually being opened to the public in its current form. Hama Rikyu Gardens offer something beautiful at any season, as you’ll find golden foliage during the fall, plum blossoms in late winter and cherry blossoms in spring.

A scenic drive through the city takes you to the Imperial Palace, surrounded by moats and massive stone walls, also in the center of Tokyo. The palace is built on the former site of Edo Castle. It is the residence of Japan’s Imperial Family and is surrounded by a large park area. Although the Palace is not open to the public, from Kokyo Gaien, the large plaza in front of the Imperial Palace, you can view the Nijubashi, two bridges that form an entrance to the inner palace grounds. The stone bridge in front is nicknamed the Eyeglass Bridge for its looks and is one of the most recognized bridges in Japan. You’ll have some free time in the square to explore a bit and take some memorable pictures.

After enjoying the sites in Tokyo, your coach will bring you to Haneda Airport for your flight back home.

Discover Tokyo and two of its traditional sights that coexist in stark contrast with tall futuristic skyscrapers and bustling city streets.

A 1-hour drive takes you to the center of Tokyo, a modern city where the 21st century coexists with the spirit of ancient Japan. Along the way, you’ll see many of the city’s landmarks.

Enjoy a visit Hama Rikyu Garden, an Edo Period Japanese garden surrounded by the Shiodome district’s futuristic skyscrapers; a great example of how Japan is the land of contrasts. The garden was originally built as a feudal lord's Tokyo residence and duck hunting grounds during the Edo Period, but later served as a strolling garden and as an imperial detached palace before eventually being opened to the public in its current form. Hama Rikyu Gardens offer something beautiful at any season, as you’ll find golden foliage during the fall, plum blossoms in late winter and cherry blossoms in spring.

A scenic drive through the city takes you to the Imperial Palace, surrounded by moats and massive stone walls, also in the center of Tokyo. The palace is built on the former site of Edo Castle. It is the residence of Japan’s Imperial Family and is surrounded by a large park area. Although the Palace is not open to the public, from Kokyo Gaien, the large plaza in front of the Imperial Palace, you can view the Nijubashi, two bridges that form an entrance to the inner palace grounds. The stone bridge in front is nicknamed the Eyeglass Bridge for its looks and is one of the most recognized bridges in Japan. You’ll have some free time in the square to explore a bit and take some memorable pictures.

After enjoying the sites in Tokyo, your coach will bring you to Narita International Airport for your flight back home.

Gain an overall historical understanding of Yokohama, the first port open to foreign trade when Japan ended its isolationist policy in the mid-1800s. While strolling through the traditional garden of Sankeien, you will see a three-story pagoda rising above the verdant foliage, which was planted to mirror the Nara countryside. The pagoda was built in Kyoto in the 1400s and moved to the garden in 1914. Walking through Chinatown will offer a livelier experience as it is the largest in Japan. Hundreds of shops line the maze of streets selling everything from natural herbs to fine jewelry. You can expect the aroma of freshly cooked Chinese dishes to be wafting through the air, as restaurants are among the primary businesses. For a glimpse into Yokohama’s urban redevelopment, you will stop at a waterfront red-brick warehouse that once served as the customs clearing house. It’s now a popular shopping center filled with one-of-a-kind boutiques.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Stroll the winding paths in Sankeien, a serene garden oasis in southern Yokohama.
• Spend free time exploring the countless shops in Japan’s largest Chinatown.
• See a former customs warehouse that has been converted into a high-end shopping area.

Guests with international flights departing after 7:30 p.m. can discover a unique blend of old and new during this scenic, full-day sightseeing excursion to Tokyo with lunch and an airport transfer.

Yokohama, Imperial Palace Plaza, Nijubashi Bridge, Photo Stop

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately one-hour drive to the Imperial Palace Plaza. The palace is located on the original site of Edo Castle, the seat of power for the Tokugawa Shoguns during the Edo Period (1604-1866). A stop is made at the Nijubashi Bridge, a picturesque, two-tiered bridge, for a superb views and photo opportunities of your surrounds.

Torii Gates, Meiji Shrine

Next, re-board your coach and head to the Meiji Shrine. Dedicated to the Emperor Meiji, the father of modern Japan, this beautiful shrine stands in a dense forest glade in the very heart of Tokyo. The setting symbolizes the separation of the spiritual from the worldly. Upon arrival, enter the shrine through the twin, 40-foot-tall (12-metre tall) Torii Gates, one of the largest gates in Japan.

Asakusa, Asakusa Senso-ji Temple, Kaminarimon Gate, Local Restaurant, Lunch

Following your visit, re-board your coach for the drive to Asakusa and a visit to the Asakusa Senso-ji Temple. Founded in the early-7th century, it is the oldest extant temple in Tokyo. Enter through the Kaminarimon Gate, or 'Nitenmon', which is bedecked (weather-permitting) with a huge, red paper lantern. Your guided tour includes a stroll down 'Nakamise-Dori', an alley lined with traditional vendors selling food, souvenirs, and handmade crafts. Following your tour and a brief stop to browse for souvenirs, re-board your coach and proceed for lunch at a local restaurant.

Ginza District, Free Time, Shopping, Haneda Airport

After lunch, your final stop is at the Ginza, one of the most luxurious shopping districts in the world and a great place for window-shopping. The streets of the Ginza District are lined with numerous department stores, boutiques, restaurants, and bars. Upon arrival, approximately one hour is made available to browse the shoppes at your leisure. Leaving the Ginza, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 40-minute transfer to Haneda Airport for check-in and your flight home

Guests with international flights departing after 8 p.m. can discover the splendid beauty and history of Tokyo during this picturesque, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Yokohama, Torii Gates, Meiji Shrine

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximate 70-minute drive to the Meiji Shrine. Dedicated to the Emperor Meiji, the father of modern Japan, this beautiful shrine stands in a dense forest glade in the very heart of Tokyo. The setting symbolizes the separation of the spiritual from the worldly. Enter the shrine through twin, 40-foot-tall (12-metre tall) Torii Gates, one of the largest in Japan.

Asakusa, Asakusa Senso-ji Temple, Kaminarimon Gate

Next, re-board your coach for the drive to Asakusa, and a visit to the Asakusa Senso-ji Temple. Founded in the early-7th century, it is the oldest extant temple in the Tokyo. Enter through the Kaminarimon Gate, or 'Nitenmon', which is bedecked (weather-permitting) with a huge, red paper lantern. Your guided tour includes a stroll down 'Nakamise-Dori', an alley lined with traditional vendors selling food, souvenirs and handmade crafts.

Narita Airport Transfer, Metropolitan Tokyo, Ginza District, City Centre, Airport Transfer

Following your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 70-minute transfer to Narita Airport for your flight home. En route, take a sightseeing drive through metropolitan Tokyo and the Ginza District, and past other landmarks in the city's centre

In-transit guests can discover the splendid beauty and history of Tokyo during this picturesque, full-day sightseeing excursion.

Yokohama, Nijubashi Bridge, Photo Stop, Torii Gates, Meiji Shrine

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximate one-hour drive to the Imperial Palace Plaza. The palace is located on the original site of Edo Castle, the seat of power for the Tokugawa Shoguns during the Edo Period (1604-1866). A stop is made at the Nijubashi Bridge, a picturesque, two-tiered bridge, for a superb photo opportunity of your surroundings. Next, re-board your coach and head to the Meiji Shrine. Dedicated to the Emperor Meiji, the father of modern Japan, this beautiful shrine stands in a dense forest glade in the very heart of Tokyo. The setting symbolizes the separation of the spiritual from the worldly. Enter the shrine through twin, 40-foot-tall (12-metre tall) Torii Gates, one of the largest in Japan.

Lunch, Asakusa, Asakusa Senso-ji Temple, Kaminarimon Gate

Following your visit, re-board your coach and proceed for lunch at a local restaurant. After lunch, re-board your coach for the drive to Asakusa, and a visit to the Asakusa Senso-ji Temple. Founded in the early-7th century, it is the oldest extant temple in the Tokyo. Enter through the Kaminarimon Gate, or 'Nitenmon', which is bedecked (weather-permitting) with a huge, red paper lantern. Your guided tour includes a stroll down 'Nakamise-Dori', an alley lined with traditional vendors selling food, souvenirs and handmade crafts.

Ginza District, Free Time, Shopping

Your tour concludes with a visit to the Ginza, one of the most luxurious shopping districts in the world. The streets of the Ginza District are lined with numerous department stores, boutiques, restaurants and bars. This is a great place for window-shopping. Upon arrival, approximately one hour is made available for browsing the shops at your leisure. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the short drive to the pier.

Tokyo, Cooking Studio, Interactive Japanese Cooking Lesson

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 30 -minute drive to a cooking studio in Tokyo. Upon arrival, meet your chef and begin your Japanese cooking lesson. The focus of today's lesson is tempura, the renowned Japanese food. Introduced to Japan during the 16th century by the Portuguese in Nagasaki, tempura has developed over the centuries into a popular Japanese dish both inside-and-outside of Japan. Tempura can be found in many types of restaurants across the country, where it is commonly served as a main dish, side dish, or as a topping for tendon rice bowls (udon) and soba noodle dishes.

Preparation of Tempura and Side Dishes, Lunch

In addition to tempura, learn about and participate in the preparation of two Japanese seasonal side dishes (rolled omelette, green beans with sesame seeds, or similar). Following your cooking lesson proceed for a lunch consisting of the meal you have helped to prepare, which is served with miso soup, white rice, Japanese tea and mineral water.

Tokyo City View (Observatory)

Next, a photo stop is made at the Tokyo City View located on the 52nd floor at the top of Mori Tower, Roppongi Hills' Tokyo City View observation deck offers a marvelous indoor viewing platform at 250-meter above sea level where you can see the idyllic tech and culturally ambitious cosmopolitan in all its glory. Following your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximate 50-minute drive back to the pier.

Travel to Kamakura, a coastal town that became the political centre of Japan when Minamoto Yoritomo, chose the city as the seat for his new military government in 1185.

The Great Buddha

Depart the pier for the approximate 90-minute drive to Kamakura. Visit the Kotokuin Temple and the giant sitting Buddha cast, that was built in the 13th century. With a height of 43 feet (13 m), it is the second tallest bronze Buddha in Japan, surpassed only by the statue in the Todaiji Temple in Nara. The Buddha was originally located inside a large temple. However, the buildings were destroyed by several typhoons and a tidal wave in the 14th and 15th centuries, so the Buddha now stands in the open air.

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine

Visit Kamakura's most important shrine whose main pavilion was built by Minamoto Yoritomo in 1185 to celebrate the establishment of the Minamoto Shogunate, the first of the Kamakura government. The shrine is dedicated to Hachiman, the patron god of the Minamoto family and of the samurai in general. An uphill walk with approximately 62 steps is required to reach the main hall of the Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine. The main hall stands on a terrace at the top of a wide stairway.

Spend some free time exploring the shops along Komachi-Dori Street where traditional and modern shops stand side by side. Re-board your coach for the drive back to ship.

In-transit guests can discover the scenic splendour and legacy of Yokohama and Kawasaki during this panoramic, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Yokohama, Kawasaki Daishi Temple, Main Hall, Kobo Daishi Statue, Dai-Sanmon Gate

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 30-minute drive to the Kawasaki Daishi Temple. The temple's original structures were destroyed during the war, and its current buildings are modern reconstructions of Heian Period (794-1185) architecture. The Main Hall, constructed of steel and concrete, was built in 1958 and houses a statue of Kobo Daishi, the founder of Japanese Shingon Buddhism. Several of the temple's other large structures, such as the main Dai-Sanmon Gate and an octagonal, five story pagoda, were built in the 1970s and 1980s to commemorate various anniversaries.

Sankeien Garden, Feudal Lord's Residences, Teahouses, Main Hall, Pagoda

Next, re-board your coach and head to the Sankeien Garden. This spacious, Japanese-style garden in southern Yokohama exhibits a number of historic buildings from across Japan. There is a pond, small rivers, flowers and wonderful scrolling trails that make you think you are in Kyoto rather than Yokohama. The garden, built by Hara Sankei, was opened to the public in 1904. Among the historic buildings exhibited in the park are an elegant feudal lord's residence, several teahouses, the Main Hall and a three-storied pagoda of Kyoto's old Tomyoji Temple. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the short drive back to the pier.

Guests with international flights departing after 3:30 p.m. from Haneda Airport can discover the scenic splendour and legacy of Yokohama and Kawasaki during this panoramic, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Yokohama, Sankeien Garden, Feudal Lord's Residences, Teahouses, Main Hall, Pagoda

Depart the pier for the approximate 30 minute drive to the Sankeien Garden. This spacious, Japanese-style garden in southern Yokohama exhibits a number of historic buildings from across Japan. There is a pond, small rivers, flowers and wonderful scrolling trails that make you think you are in Kyoto rather than Yokohama. The garden, built by Hara Sankei, was opened to the public in 1904. Among the historic buildings exhibited in the park are an elegant feudal lord's residence, several teahouses, the Main Hall and a three-storied pagoda of Kyoto's old Tomyoji Temple.

Kawasaki Daishi Temple, Main Hall, Kobo Daishi Statue, Dai-Sanmon Gate

Next, re-board your coach for the drive to the Kawasaki Daishi Temple. The temple's original structures were destroyed during the war, and its current buildings are modern reconstructions of Heian Period (794-1185) architecture. The Main Hall, constructed of steel and concrete, was built in 1958 and houses a statue of Kobo Daishi, the founder of Japanese Shingon Buddhism. Several of the temple's other large structures, such as the main Dai-Sanmon Gate and an octagonal, five story pagoda, were built in the 1970s and 1980s to commemorate various anniversaries.

Kawasaki Daishi Station, Restaurants, Shops, Souvenir Stop, Airport Transfer

A lively temple approach connects the gates of the temple to Kawasaki Daishi Station, and is lined with restaurants and shops selling all kinds of souvenirs and colourful daruma dolls. A stop is made here for an opportunity to purchase a local souvenir of your visit. At the conclusion of your tour, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 1.5-hour drive to Haneda Airport for your flight home.

Explore Yokohama at your leisure during your full-day (8-hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Yokohama at your leisure during your half-day (4-hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Yokohama at your leisure during your full-day (8-hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Yokohama at your leisure during your half-day (4-hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Guests with international flights departing after 4:30 p.m. from Narita Airport can discover the beauty and history of Yokohama during this picturesque, half-day sightseeing excursion and airport transfer.

Yokohama, Sankeien Garden, Feudal Lord’s Residences, Teahouses, Main Hall, Pagoda

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 30-minute drive to the Sankeien Garden. This spacious, Japanese-style garden in southern Yokohama features historic buildings from across Japan, along with a pond, small rivers, flowers, and wonderful scrolling trails that make you think you are in Kyoto rather than Yokohama. Built by Hara Sankei, the Sankeien Garden was opened to the public in 1904. Among the historic buildings exhibited in the park are an elegant feudal lord’s residence, several teahouses, the Main Hall, and a three-storied pagoda of Kyoto's old Tomyoji Temple.

Kawasaki Daishi Temple, Main Hall, Kobo Daishi Statue, Dai-Sanmon Gate

Next, re-board your coach for the drive to the Kawasaki Daishi Temple. The temple's original structures were destroyed during the war, and its current buildings are modern reconstructions of Heian Period (794-1185) architecture. The Main Hall, constructed of steel and concrete, was built in 1958 and houses a statue of Kobo Daishi, the founder of Japanese Shingon Buddhism. Several of the temple's other large structures, such as the main Dai-Sanmon Gate and an octagonal, five story pagoda, were built in the 1970s and 1980s to commemorate various anniversaries.

Kawasaki Daishi Station, Restaurants, Shoppes, Souvenir Stop, Narita International Airport

A lively temple approach connects the gates of the temple to Kawasaki Daishi Station, and is lined with restaurants and shoppes selling all kinds of souvenirs and colourful daruma dolls. A stop is made here for an opportunity to purchase a local souvenir of your visit. At the conclusion of your tour, re-board your coach and commence the approximately two-hour drive to Narita International Airport for check-in and your flight home.

Depart the pier for an approximately 40 minute drive to Tokyo. After a scenic sightseeing comence your self exploration day.

Asakusa Senso-ji Temple

Founded in the early-7th century, it is the oldest extant temple in Tokyo. Enter through the Kaminarimon Gate, or 'Nitenmon', which is bedecked (weather-permitting) with a huge red paper lantern. It is an ancient Buddhist temple and one of it's most significant. Formerly associated with the Tendai sect of Buddhism, it became independent after World War II. Adjacent to the temple is a five storey pagoda as well as many shops with traditional goods. The temple has a titanium tiled roof that maintains the historic image but is stronger and lighter.

Your tour includes a stroll down the Street of Inside Shops, or 'Nakamise-Dori', an alley lined with traditional vendors selling food, souvenirs and handmade crafts. After an explanation from guide you will have free time at Asakusa to enjoy shopping or enjoying local foods or sweets.

Ginza

Your tour concludes with a visit to the Ginza, one of the most luxurious shopping districts in the world. The streets of the Ginza are lined with numerous internationally renowned department stores, boutiques, restaurants and bars. It is considered to be one of the most expensive,elegant and luxurious streets in the world. This is a great place for window-shopping.

Upon arrival, approximately 3 hours is made available for browsing the shops at your leisure, lunch at your own expense before commencing the brief panoramic drive back to the pier.

Explore the highlights and landmarks of Tokyo during a relaxing orientation drive through this bustling city.

Tokyo City Sightseeing

Depart the pier for a scenic sightseeing drive through Tokyo City. Along the way, pass by landmarks that include the Imperial Palace Plaza, National Diet Building and National Guest House, then continue on through the Roppongi area.

Tokyo Tower

Next, a visit is made at the Tokyo Tower. (Not to be confused with the Skytower). At a height of 1,09 2 feet (333 m), the Tokyo Tower is the world's tallest self-supported iron structure, and higher than the Eiffel Tower by approximately 30 feet (about 9 m) and inspired by the Eiffel Tower constructed in lattice that is painted white and international orange to comply with air safety regulations. Built in 1958, the tower's main source of income is from tourism and antenna leasing. Every five years Tokyo Tower is repainted and it takes one year to do so. Foot Town, a four storey building directly under the tower houses museums, restaurant and shops. Upon arrival at the Tokyo Tower, take the elevator up to the 500-foot-high (152m high) observation platform for panoramic vistas overlooking the city.

Following your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximate 30-minute drive back to the pier.