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Seven Stars, the Orient Express of Japan ななつ星

• Published on : 06/11/2014
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7 star locomotive

Discover the stunning landscapes of Kyushu in style: Welcome aboard the most luxurious Japanese train.

Opened on October 15th, 2013, the Seven Stars of Kyushu is a luxury train that is reminiscent of its mystical cousin - the Orient Express. Flashy and luxurious, it combines Western chic (pianos, lighting, polished wood) and Japanese refinement (cypress showers and Arita ceramics).

Passengers (maximum of 28), become kings for a time, having the choice of two packages (two to four days) to tour the seven prefectures of Kyushu and indulge in idle observation, comfortably behind the windows of this seven-sta r traveling  hotel .  Aso  volcano, the onsens of Yufuin and Beppu , the sunny coast of Miyazaki and the Bay of Kagoshima ...

For those who wish, it is also possible during the trip to visit some sites on foot.

But this luxury comes at a price, a minimum 700,000 yen per person for four days of travel, and up to 1,250,000  yen for a luxury suite.

This concept of a rail cruise is not new in Japan since Cassiopeia , a luxurious night train, already offers a comfortable trip from Tokyo to Sapporo.

Beware though, reservations for the Seven Stars require booking well in advance. All information is available on the website Seven Stars in Kyushu .

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Seven Stars in Kyushu

The Seven Stars represents what train travel should be: a journey remarkable not just for the distance covered, but for the travel experience itself. This luxury train is comparable to such fabled trains as the Orient Express and the Blue Train in terms of service and sheer splendor. Step into a dedicated lounge, attended to by expertly-trained staff, then settle into your fabulous suite as the train pulls out of Hakata.

The sleeping carriages adjoin the Jupiter and the Blue Moon dining cars, which serve as a gastronomic theater and an observatory onto the ever-changing scenery. The train moves at a leisurely pace, inviting travelers to reflect on the peacefulness of Kyushu. The interior, with subtle but luxurious decor, with accents by local artisans, is just as conducive to relaxation. There are two different journey lengths, a two-day one-night tour, as well as a four-day three-night voyage, and both are designed to showcase the beauty and wonder of this beautiful island.

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Japan’s answer to the orient express.

Riding the Seven Stars - Japan's super-luxury train

Story highlights.

Japan invested more than $34 million into Seven Stars train in Kyushu island

The exclusive luxury train has seven carriages for 30 guests in 14 suites

Kyushu, the most southwesterly of Japan's main islands, is the warmest and most tropically lush

I’m sitting in the lounge car of a train and traveling at a fairly ordinary speed.

But this is no ordinary train: the back end of the carriage is a giant floor-to-ceiling window, like a flickering movie screen on which the passing landscapes are acting out their various parts.

There are volcanoes being majestic, and hills cloaked in forests of cypress trees and bamboo. There are rice fields shimmering with green and a shoreline of bays filled with boats and seaweed farms, which unravels as the train goes past.

Moreover, every landscape has at least a couple of people in it, waving. At me. I wave back – when I remember – but I’m a bit busy. My wine glass is being refilled.

Behind me, by the bar, a gifted violin-and-piano duo is tackling everything from Mozart to Guns ‘n’ Roses, and they’re asking for requests.

And on the table in front of me is a selection of amuse-bouches either wrapped in leaves, or served on delicate porcelain or in bamboo boxes; mouthfuls of locally-sourced beef, wood-smoked fish, pungent sea urchin, plus of course fugu – the fish that needs to be cooked by a highly trained and licensed chef, or you’re dead.

Exclusive and luxurious

I’m in Japan , a country famous for its trains, but generally not the sort that allow their passengers to savor their surroundings like this one does.

Shinkansen, the country’s bullet trains, for example, have a fuselage-like interior which pays little heed to anything in its haste to get from one end of country to the other.

But now Japan Rail Kyushu have invested big money – over $34 million – into a special train with the deliberate aim of going slow.

This chocolate liveried locomotive chugs along the branch lines, truffling out local delicacies and hot springs, and giving locals cause to stop their planting and harvesting in order to stare and wave.

The “Seven Stars in Kyushu ” is Japan’s answer to the Orient Express, with its seven carriages having space for just 30 people in 14 suites; and it is very exclusive, with some 21 applications for every berth.

The interiors around me are examples of the best in Japanese craftsmanship: walls are of rosewood and maple, floors are made from walnut, window coverings are shoji paper screens, sliding glass doors are etched with flowers and birds.

Related article Take a luxury ride on Japan's Shiki-shima

Volcanoes and hot springs

Part of the train’s purpose is to “introduce Kyushu to the world,” according to the Seven Stars company, because Japan’s third largest island is not a first-timer’s destination.

Kyushu is the most southwesterly main island in the chain, which means it is the warmest and most tropically lush, with more than its fair share of volcanoes and spas.

So within a few hours of setting off from capital Fukuoka on our four-day itinerary, we’ve already got into hot water – or more specifically, our feet have, into a mineral water footspa on the station platform at Yufuin, in a valley filled with plumes of rising steam.

The journey here has been up through hill country, ambushing rivers, clattering across iron bridges, scything through rice terracing spiced with hurricane lilies – crimson wildflowers that look like splashes of blood amongst the yellowing harvest.

At the station, we are met by the Seven Stars luxury bus, which is to shadow us throughout our journey, ready to pounce whenever needed. This time it takes us to a tea-house in ornamental gardens where we try “plum pudding” – actually a sort of sorbet with a plum at the center.

Changing landscapes

Fast forward a day, and the landscape has changed completely. The train has rumbled south to the coastal city of Kagoshima, where Mount Sakurajima looms, puffing out clouds of ash.

I can’t believe how calm the locals are, living in the shadow of an active volcano.

This used to be samurai territory and the bus whisks us off to a clan center to learn about how Japan, dominated by shoguns, was almost completely cut off from the outside world until 1867.

Even now, it hasn’t quite abandoned the old ways, for while our first night was spent slumbering in a rural siding on the train, for our second night the bus transfers us to the Gajyoen ryokan, a traditional travelers’ inn in a hot springs resort an hour inland from Kagoshima.

This ryokan turns out to be a rustic collection of low-beamed cottages threaded by cobbled pathways, with dinner prepared over charcoal using ingredients from the garden.

My room has sweet-smelling tatami-matting floors, and I plan to sleep on the balcony overlooking the river until I return from dinner to find that the bed fairies have been at work, magicking a linen-covered futon out onto the sleeping room floor.

I don’t ignore the balcony, however, because this is where I have my own personal onsen.

Luxuriating in my own floating world, contemplating the evening light filtering through the trees, it is easy to see the sense in this change of scene away from the Seven Stars: the proper savoring of hot springs is a very Japanese experience, and not one that should be curtailed by the timetable of even the most handsome of trains.

Related article 11 of the world's most luxurious train journeys

Need to know info:

The Seven Stars offers two itineraries: a two-day option which stays around Fukuoka, or a four-day journey which does a loop of the island.

Both are hugely in demand, so the company selects applications by lottery. The starting price of $4,200 per person (based on two sharing) covers all accommodation, transport, sightseeing, food and drink.

Fukuoka airport has direct flights to Asian capitals such as Singapore, Hong Kong and Shanghai with carriers JAL , Cathay Pacific and ANA , and direct to Europe with KLM to Amsterdam.

For more information about the Onsen Island: Kyushu

Read more about this piece’s author, Andrew Eames .

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Our Japan cherry blossom tours are our most popular tours because we highlight the top places to see sakura, the most renowned flower in the country. Experience Japanese cherry blossom festivals, a cherry blossom dance show performed by geisha, and sakura views from Mt. Fuji, to gardens in Kyoto.

Japan Autumn Leaves Tours

Our Japan autumn leaves tours give you exclusive access to beautiful gardens, temples, shrines, and famous landmarks while enjoying the colorful autumn scenery along the way. We offer Japan tours to rural parts of Japan, historical towns, World Heritage sites, and diverse shopping districts.

Japan Festival Tours

Our Japanese festival tours cover festivals from all seasons. Matsuri (festivals) can range from celebrations to honor a shrine`s deity to joyful seasonal occurrences. Participate in one of the biggest festivals in Japan, the Kyoto Aoi Festival, or check out the Gion Summer Festival on one of our Japan tours.

Top 12 Attractions in Japan

Takayama Festivals

Lavenders in Hokkaido

Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route

Snow Monkeys

Japan Winter Festivals

Awa Odori Dance Festival

Gion Summer Festival

Kyoto Aoi Festival

Shibazakura Festivals

Baby Blue Eye Flowers at Hitachi Seaside Park

Tohoku 3 Great Summer Festivals

Experience the takayama spring & autumn festivals during your trip to japan, one of japan's most beautiful festivals..

Witness the beautiful Takayama Festivals in Japan, not once, but twice a year. We offer a list of Japan tour packages that allow you to experience the lavishly decorated floats, known as yatai, which feature karakuri (mechanical puppets) that dance and move impressively. Whichever season you prefer, we have a Japan tour package reserved for either Takayama Festivals.

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Get lost in the lovely furano flower fields surrounded with lavender flowers, and enjoy views of the spacious fields in biei..

Our Hokkaido lavender tours showcase the best spots to indulge in lavender beauty during its flowering season. Take a Japan trip to Farm Tomita in Furano, known as one of the best places in Japan to see spectacular backdrops of lavender. Our lavender tours will also take you to a small town called Biei, overlapping with picturesque hills, vast fields, and the popular Panorama Road.

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The tateyama kurobe alpine route is an amazing route that goes through the northern japan alps..

Visit the famous and long demanded Alpine Route in Japanese Alps. Requiring varying modes of transportation, this route takes you through mountains and valleys for some of the most scenic views in all of Japan. From high mountain peaks reflected in the surface of calm, crystal lakes to the lower elevations at the Kurobe Dam and the famous site of the snow corridor, this route is sure to be unforgettably beautiful.

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Take delight in viewing elegant wisteria flowers at ashikaga flower park and kawachi fuji garden during your tour to japan..

Wisteria are dream-like flowers that hang like pink and purple chandeliers. On our Japan Wisteria Tours, you will visit places like the Kawachi Fuji Garden and Ashikaga Flower Park. The Kawachi Fuji Garden features picture-worthy flower tunnels you can walk underneath, while the Ashikaga Flower Park is significant for their "Great Wisteria", a famous tree that's over a 150 years old.

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Watch japanese snow monkeys bathe in hot springs at jigokudani snow monkey park on a japan winter tour..

Our snow monkey tours will take you to the Jigokudani Yaenkoen Park, where you can see Japanese Macaque, known as "snow monkeys". Thousands of people come to see the monkeys, whom are native to northern Japan and can be recognized by their red faces and light brown-grey fur. Watching the snow monkeys bathe up close is quite an experience, so don't forget your camera!

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Our japan tours will take you to the best winter festivals in the country, where you can admire giant ice sculptures and unique fairgrounds..

Believe it or not, some of the best festivals that attract millions of visitors each year are located in the coldest parts of Japan. We have arranged tours to travel to the Sapporo Snow Festival, Otaru Snow Light Path, Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival, Asahikawa Winter Festival, and the Sounkyo Ice Waterfall Festival. Experience seeing illuminated ice sculptures on one our tour packages.

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Join a tour that visits japan's largest dance festival, awa odori, and enjoy traditional music accompanied with lots of food in a lively celebration..

Attracting over 1.3 million visitors per year, Awa Odori is the largest dance festival in Japan. We have a Japan tour package showing you the best of Japan, including this famous dance festival. It is also called the "Fool's Dance", which originates from 400 years ago. Many instruments including taiko, shamisen, and flutes are accompanied with the dancers that parade through the city.

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Spend your japan vacation indulging in traditional japanese culture and stunning floats at the gion summer festival..

The Gion Matsuri is Kyoto’s largest annual festival and one of Japan's most famous. We have arranged Japan tour packages that include this 1100 year old celebration, which originally began as a religious ceremony dating back to 869. The main event occurs on July 17th and July 24th, where locals and visitors gather to view two extravagant procession parade floats.

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Book a trip to japan that includes a taste of japanese history at the elegant and popular kyoto aoi festival..

Every May 15th, the Kyoto Aoi Festival features a large parade of over 500 people dressed in Heian Period (794-1185) styled clothing to illustrate a graceful procession. We provide several tours that highlight one of Kyoto's most celebrated festivals. The Kyoto Aoi Matsuri takes you back to the 10th century, where traditional makeup and impressive costumes can be appreciated.

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Admire thousands of ground cherry blossoms at the fuji shibazakura festival & takinoue koen park shibazakura festival during your japan tour..

Known as the ground cherry blossoms, our Shibazakura Festival tours will take you to attractions that are blanketed with vivid shibazakura. See the Fuji Shibazakura Festival, featuring over 800,000 spectacular moss phlox with the great Mt. Fuji in the background. Also visit Takinoue Koen Park, noteworthy for its hillside covered with 100,000 square meters of shibazakura.

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Take your japan tour to the majestic flower gardens at hitachi seaside park, widely known for its hillside of 4.5 million baby blue eye flowers..

Scientifically known as Nemophila, the largest collection of baby blue eye flowers can be seen at the Hitachi Seaside Park. There are over 4.5 million baby blue eyes blooming from mid-April to mid-May, referred as "Nemophila Harmony" during its annual bloom. The Hitachi Seaside Park features vast, gorgeous flower gardens of tulips, poppies, roses, kochia, and more.

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Join the fiery celebration at tohoku's 3 great summer festivals during your japan trip..

Be keen on Tohoku's Three Great Summer Festivals all in one Japan tour package. These summer festivals known as Aomori Nebuta, Akita Kanto, and Sendai Tanabata are lively experiences you don't want to miss. Enjoy magnificent views of lantern-lit floats, high-spirited dancing, music performances, kanto skills, firework displays, thousands of colorful streamers, and more.

View our Japan tours featuring Tohoku 3 Great Summer Festivals

Top 12 places to visit in japan.

1. Hokkaido

Enjoy a tour to japan in hokkaido, renowned for its flower fields and attractions unique to every season..

Hokkaido, Japan has a distinctive change of seasons that only adds to its beauty. The island is renowned for its lavender fields in the summer and winter festivals that attract millions of visitors every year. Our Japan tours to Hokkaido will take you to the flower fields in Furano, the atmospheric Otaru Canal, Hokkaido's biggest entertainment district in Susukino, and to Shiraoi to learn about the Ainu people of Hokkaido. A Japan trip to Hokkaido means trying various fresh foods at the famous Nijo Market, strolling through the heart of Sapporo in Odori Park, and stopping by Hokkaido's most famous hot spring resort in Noboribetsu. Hokkaido is proud to have its four distinct seasonal differences that include a number of events and activities each unique to the season. There is no other place like Hokkaido to enjoy your Japan vacation to the fullest.

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Make your way to the Tohoku region to see the great Towada Lake, visit the prominent Zeuiganji Zen temple, and see one of Japan's three most scenic views during your Japan tour.

Tohoku is known for its great summer festivals, picturesque landscapes, and its long history of samurai. Predominantly mountainous, this region offers broad areas of natural surroundings. A Japan tour to Tohoku involves visiting must-see sites among its six prefectures. Tour to one of Japan's three most scenic views at Matsushina, Tohoku's famous Zuiganji Zen temple, and the lovely Towada Lake. Numerous castles and samurai homes reside in Tohoku, making it an appropriate place to visit and appreciate history. Tohoku is also a suitable backup option when cherry blossom viewing, since the blossoming period takes place a few weeks later than in Kyoto or Tokyo. We offer several tours to see the best of Tohoku in one Japan trip.

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Dive into the fascinating world of Tokyo, where you will visit ancient landmarks and electrifying towns during your tour to Japan.

Populated by over 36 million people, Tokyo is the worlds largest city. It is a metropolis that offers a mixture of both futuristic and traditional qualities. We offer tours to Tokyo that take you to destinations such as the Meiji Shrine, the Tokyo Tower, and the Imperial Palace. Indulge in Japanese history at the interesting Edo-Tokyo Musuem. We have Japan tour packages that will also take you to a popular tourist attraction called Odaiba, a man made island that serves as a shopping and entertainment district. Admire Tokyo's oldest temple built in 645, the colorful Sensoji Temple, also known as the Asakusa Kannon Temple. Find yourself in the lively and colorful Shibuya, renowned for endless dining, shopping, and clubbing. Its trademark is a large intersection featured in a number of films and photos. A Japan trip is not complete without traveling to Japans most distinguished city.

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Travel to an active volcano in Hakone and ride the scenic Hakone Ropeway on one of our Japan tour packages.

Located in the Kanagawa Prefecture, the town of Hakone is mostly a mountainous region part of the Fuji Hakone Izu National Park. Hakone is a famed holiday resort renowned for its variety of popular hot springs. On our Japan tours, you can enjoy a stunning view of Mt. Fuji in Hakone and its natural beauty. Our tours will also take you to Owakudani, a volcano with active steam vents, hot river valleys, and scenic trails. Enjoy a ride on the Hakone Ropeway, where you can view the active volcano zone and excellent views of Mt. Fuji on clear days. Hakone is a popular destination in Japan for travelers looking to enjoy their tour outside of Tokyo. Since Hakone is in the Kanagawa Prefecture, our Japan tour packages will also include the must-see sites in this region.

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5. Mt. Fuji

Check out astonishing views of mt. fuji and all of its natural surroundings when you book a tour to japan..

Take a tour to the highest mountain in Japan, Mt. Fuji, an active volcano standing at 12,380 feet (3,776 meters). Mt. Fuji is not only famous for its majestic cone shape and impressive aura, but also being the subject for distinguished paintings, photos, and literature. It is recognized as an international famous symbol of Japan. Impressive views can be seen from Tokyo and Yokohama on clear days. On the other hand, cloudy days often block visibility of Mt. Fuji, so those who get to experience the clear view of the mountain are considered fortunate. Our Japan tour packages will take you to the Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station, the halfway point on the climb to Mt. Fuji. It is accessible almost any time of the year and is well developed. This is a popular sightseeing spot for thoroughly admiring the grand and awe-inspiring view of Mt. Fuji and its surroundings.

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6. Takayama

Add a traditional touch to your japan tour by visiting rural destinations in takayama and its authentic, historical buildings..

Celebrate at one of Japan's three most beautiful festivals here in Takayama, the Takayama Festivals, held in both spring and autumn. Since Takayama is located in the Japanese Alps, it is preferred among travelers wishing to add a rural destination to their visit to Japan. Takayama has been referred as "Little Kyoto", due to its preserved historical structures and traditional atmosphere. It is also popularly known as Hida-Takayama to refrain from confusion with other places called Takayama. We offer Japan tours to Old Town, where you can view entire streets and structures dating back to the Edo Period (1600-1868). Continue your Japan trip to the Matsumoto Castle, also called "Crow Castle" due to its black exterior. Here you can admire a prime example of original Japanese wooden architecture. Take delight in sightseeing in Takayama on your Japan vacation.

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7. Kanazawa

Tour to kanazawa if you wish to see one of japan's three great gardens and a well-preserved samurai district during your trip to japan..

Capital of the Ishikawa Prefecture, the eminent city of Kanazawa is known for its preserved Edo districts and other historical attractions. Since the construction of the Kanazawa Castle during the rule of powerful feudal lord Maeda Toshiie, the city has prospered with many cultural achievements. Visit one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan, the Kenrokuen Garden, during your tour to Japan. Its name translates to "Garden of the Six Sublimities", qualities that make up the perfect garden according to Chinese landscape theory. Here you can find Japan's oldest fountain and the two meter tall Kotojitoro Lantern, an icon of Kanazawa and Kenrokuen. Some of our tour packages even travel to Kanazawa's Samurai District. Upon arrival, you will catch sight of well-preserved buildings and the former living quarters of samurai. Tour to Japan to enjoy these attractions unique to Kanazawa.

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Say hello to authentic Japanese culture by visiting Japan's most popular temples and shrines, beautiful parks and gardens, and the best summer festivals during a tour to Kyoto.

Kyoto is famous for its numerous Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines, and ravishing gardens. The city served as Japan's capital and was the residence of the Imperial family during 794 to 1868. During your tour to Kyoto, you will get to participate in sake tasting at the Gekkeikan Okura Sake Musuem, visit the famous tunnel of scarlet torii gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine, see the iconic Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavillion), and stroll through the city of geisha in Gion. Continue your trip to the former residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu at Nijo Castle, check out the noteworthy Kiyomizu Temple and its impressive wooden stage, and see what a traditional Zen garden looks like at the Tenryuji Temple. Experience three of Kyoto's world-famous festivals, including the Aoi-matsuri Festival, the Gion-matsuri Festival, and the Jidai-matsuri Festival. Tour to Kyoto for an unforgettable Japan experience.

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Experience visiting the world's largest wooden building and Japan's biggest bronze statue of Buddha when you travel to Japan.

Located less than one hour away from Kyoto and Osaka, the city of Nara is one of Japan's most rewarding destinations. Nara is Japan's first permanent capital, and is second to Kyoto as a cultural legacy with eight Unesco World Heritage Sites. Under the rule of the Imperial family and aristocrats, many temples and shrines were built here, as well as the development of temple towns. Our tours include seeing one of Japan's most significant temples, the Todaiji Temple, home to the famous Daibutsu (Big Buddha). The temple's main hall (Daibutsuden) is the world's largest wooden building, which is where you can also find the giant bronze statue of Buddha. Your trip to Japan will also give you the opportunity to visit the popular Deer Park nearby the temple, filled with over 1,000 deer you can greet and feed. Choose one of our Japan tour packages to experience Nara's historic treasures.

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10. Hiroshima

Travel to the peace memorial park for an awakening experience about war and world peace, as well as the famed "floating" torri gate on the beautiful miyajima island, only in hiroshima..

Hiroshima is located in the Chugoku Region, a major city that is home to over a million residents. After the first atomic bomb dropped, there were predictions that the city would be uninhabitable. However, great endeavors were taken to rebuild Hiroshima and the speculations were proved wrong. During your Japan tour, you can visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and the Atomic Bomb Dome (Genbaku Dome), a must-see exhibition and eye opening experience. You can visit these landmarks of world history at Peace Memorial Park, located in the center of the city. Our Japan tour packages also take you to Itsukushima-jinja, a Shinto shrine located on Miyajima Island. It is famous for its "floating" torii gate and is inscribed as a World Cultural Heritage Site and one of Japan's three most scenic places. Don't miss out on a remarkable tour to Hiroshima.

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11. Shikoku

Journey to shikoku during your japan vacation for a tour full of remarkable sites and impressive coastal views, such as the incredibly scenic drive along the great seto bridge and the shimanami kaido toll road..

Shikoku is home to the Shikoku pilgrimage route, which includes 88 temples and other sacred sites. Shikoku offers many historic locations, breathtaking spots in nature, and traditional festivals. Here on your tour to Japan, you can enjoy scenic views from the Great Seto Bridge and the Shimanami Kaido, passing six small islands to get to Shikoku. Shimanami Kaido is renowned for its beautiful drive along its picturesque toll road. Take a pleasant stroll through Shikoku Mura Village and experience an awe-inspiring masterpiece of Japanese landscape at Ritsurin Park, featuring ponds, pavilions, and a Mt. Shuin backdrop. Shikoku may be the smallest main island of Japan, but offers many spectacular attractions to experience.

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Explore Kyushu during your tour to Japan, where you'll wander through an abandoned island known as Gunkanjima, and visit the site of legend where the Shinto Sun Goddess hid herself in a cave.

Kyushu is the third largest main island of Japan and offers significant landmarks, natural beauty, and vibrant cities. Our Japan tour packages will take you to the best things to see and do in Kyushu. Take a trip to Gunkanjima, translating to "battleship island", a small and abandoned coal mine with the highest recorded population density in the world. You will also visit Glover Garden, an open-air exhibit featuring mansions of former Western residents in Nagasaki. Tour to Takachiho, a town pervaded with Japanese mythology. There you can visit the supposed site of legend of the Sun Goddess Amaterasu, where she hid in a cave distraught from her brother's cruel pranks, causing other gods and goddesses to attempt to lure her out. Takachiho is a "power spot" profound with spiritual energy and religious importance. Nearby, you can see a cascading waterfall at the Takachiho Gorge.

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What our customers say

  4.9 stars based on 659 REVIEWS

My family really enjoyed the tour. I wish that we could have seen all of the nebuta parade.

Billy was great! He was friendly, patient, personable, and works so hard.

Barbara did a great job making sure we understood more about Japan culture and history. Her cards and such made it easy to understand her English and explanations. I would have liked more interaction with her on the tour though - she was more 'go-go-go and then left us be at the locations' and if she wasn't doing a presentation on the bus ride it was silence. Nothing wrong with it, but just an opportunity for her to improve there.

This is an amazing tour company. We got caught in the Microsoft outage which affected thousands of flights and our flights got delayed/ canceled and postponed for 2 days but AJT and Barbara and Katsume helped us tremendously in rebooking hotels for us and were available late into the night to help us have a safe and comfortable trip. I would recommend this company as a top notch tour agency. Our hotels were upscale/ the entire trip was fun and exceptional inspite of 97 deg temperatures many days.

The tour was fantastic. It was well organized and offered a variety of cities and sites to visit.

Japan Cherry Blossom Guide

Cherry blossoms in Japan have been a major attraction for tourists. The most common question people ask is "when is the cherry blossom season?" It is an easy yet difficult answer because it depends on the area we are talking about.

Japan Autumn Leaves Guide

Autumn leaves in Japan are almost as popular as the cherry blossom season. Kōyō is the Japanese word for autumn leaves. Kōyō and momiji (maple leaves) use the same kanji and has been that way since the Heian Period.

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Trip Planning FAQs

The best travel style for you will depend on your personal travel preferences and budget. Group tours are popular because they are more cost-effective than private tours , more hassle-free, and offer the chance for friendship within tour groups. Most of our group tours use a private coach for sightseeing, your driver will take you to the closest parking and you just need to walk to each destination from there. A private coach is a more flexible and a more hassle free way to visit Japan, this allows you to see as much of Japan as stress-free as possible. Private tours are often more costly, but offer full control of the travel pace and the sights you want to see, at the budget you set. If you would like to travel at your own pace, then custom private tours are for you. For a small group of 2 or 3 people, public transportation is the most cost efficient way to travel Japan. However, there is a lot of walking if you travel by public transportation since some attractions are far from the station, you will need extra days to visit the same sites compared to our group tours , and also you will need to able to walk 3-5 miles per day. We can also offer private tours by using private van. If you are looking for a private tour for 2 people with the same quality as our group tours , it will cost almost double the price. The larger the group size, the lower the cost per person.

Japan is a country with more places to see than might be expected of its size. For first-time travelers to Japan, the cities of Tokyo , Hakone , Mount Fuji , Takayama , Kanazawa , Nara , Kyoto , and Hiroshima are most recommended. Tokyo's glittering lights, tall skyscrapers, fine dining, and cultural experiences make it the number one place to visit. Kyoto is a must-see for its ancient temples, shrines, and gardens. It is also one of the best places for a spring cherry blossom tour . First time travelers enjoy Hakone and Mount Fuji's natural beauty, and a tour to see the autumn leaves in fall is especially lovely. Nara is near Kyoto and a top city for temples and beautiful nature. If you have enough time, go to Takayama and Shirakawago for ancient Japan historical sites and an authentic cultural experience, and go to Hiroshima for a walk in the Peace Park, past the A-Bomb Dome. More time means you can visit all the best Japanese cities!

A second trip is the perfect chance to explore a more real, authentic Japan atmosphere. The most recommended destinations for a second-time traveler to Japan are Tohoku , Hokkaido , Kyushu , and Okinawa . Take a trip out of central Honshu to visit the Tohoku region, where you can see the Aomori Nebuta Festival and the Sendai Tanabata fireworks in an exciting summer tour . Venture off the main island to the beautiful nature landscapes up in Hokkaido . Go down into Shikoku to discover the amazing treasures of Naoshima Art Island and the local Awa Odori dance festival of Tokushima . Go further south into Kyushu for the shrine at Takachiho or the Hidden Christian Sites at Nagasaki . Second-time travelers will enjoy a summer vacation in Japan to Okinawa's beautiful, perfect beaches. Japan has endless destinations to appeal to the second time traveler!

The prices will range widely depending on the destinations, duration, and your demands for comfort. Let's take one of the most popular itineraries as an example - a 7-day tour to Tokyo , Hakone , Mt Fuji , Kyoto , Nara and Osaka . For 2 people staying in 4-star accommodations, it will cost about US$3500 per person as a private Japan land tour , using public transportation (bullet train, local train, subway and taxi). If you join in a group tour with a similar itinerary, the trip usually costs about US$2700 per person. No matter how much you want to spend on a trip, as the best Japan tour company, we are always happy to tailor make a private tour itinerary that best fits your needs. In addition, our early bird discount can also help you save more.

The length of the trip will depend on the destinations and how much of Japan you want to see. For a single city vacation package ( Tokyo or Kyoto ), two to three days are required. If you want to visit three to four cities ( Tokyo , Mt Fuji , Kyoto & Nara ), you will need around one week. A 10-day Japan vacation package usually would cover five to six cities ( Tokyo , Mt Fuji , Kyoto , Nara , Osaka & Hiroshima ). For a two-week trip to Japan, you can add Takayama , Shirakawa-go , and Kanazawa to the popular sights in central Japan.

Yes, we do. Our Ultra-Deluxe Luxury Tours include luxury accommodation, private transportation, high-class dining, and exclusive cultural experiences. We also offer Luxury Train Travel Packages for a one-of-a-kind, stylish trip by rail through the amazing landscape of Japan. A Private Jet Journey is another one of our luxury tour options, offering you perfect control of what you see as you fly from one incredible destination to the next in your luxurious private jet that includes whatever amenities you want. We are glad to arrange a luxury travel tour tailored to your preferences.

Yes, we do. Through our sister company, All Asia Tours, we offer group tour packages to China, South Korea, Taiwan, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, Myanmar, and can arrange private tour packages to any country in Asia that interests you. Starting with one of our Japan tour itineraries that take you through Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, you can connect it to an extension in Korea to savor a bowl of spicy kimchi, or to China to walk atop the Great Wall outside Beijing. If you want to travel anywhere in Asia, All Japan Tours can plan a tour to suit your needs.

Any time of the year is the best time to visit Japan! In March and April, you can see beautiful cherry blossoms, in May there are seasonal flowers, such as Wisteria, Baby blue eyes, and shibazakura (phlox moss). The summer months from June to August is the best time for festivals like Awa Odori, and there are amazing fireworks festivals, too. In Hokkaido, fields of lavenders are in bloom at this time, as well as many other summer flowers. Autumn is the best time to see the bright autumn leaves, as the fall foliage changes to vibrant colors, and winter is good for the Sapporo Snow Festival, skiing in the mountains, and seeing snow monkeys! We have group tours available in every season, and can plan a private tour around your schedule.

You can see the cherry blossoms at different times in spring, depending on where you travel - earlier in the south, and later as you move north. Southern to Central Japan sees cherry blossoms from late March to mid April. This is the perfect time to see the pretty pink flowers anywhere from Nagasaki and Fukuoka to Kyoto's Maruyama Park, all the way over to popular Ueno Park in Tokyo. The Tohoku region's cherry blossoms bloom around late April, if you travel up to Sendai or Morioka. Up in Hokkaido, late April to early May is the perfect time for a stroll in a park in Hakodate or Sapporo to see the famous cherry blossoms.

Japan is great for families! It is one of the safest countries in the world, and offers a range of attractions to appeal to both children and adults. Kids who like anime will love Akihabara Electric Town and The Ghibli Museum. You could plan some Disney days to enjoy at Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea, or include some time at Universal Studios Japan in your itinerary. Families can also enjoy Japanese culture together, including a Ninja Mansion, watching sumo or learning how to make sushi. We can help to plan an itinerary that is sure to provide endless amusement for the kids, without leaving adults and seniors out of the fun!

Yes, it is. Japan offers some of the most breathtakingly romantic locations on the planet, more Michelin star restaurants than any other country, luxurious hotels and ryokans with onsen baths, along with memorable cultural experiences you can't find in any other honeymoon destination! We can even arrange an authentic Japanese wedding ceremony at a Shinto shrine, officiated by priest or priestess. Plan a honeymoon trip with seasonal scenery that will stand out in the honeymoon photos, like spring cherry blossoms, autumn leaves, or snow-capped mountains. There are also a range of cultural activities that couples can enjoy, like tea ceremony, ikebana flower arranging, nature hikes, and more!

Yes, we work closely with travel agents from around the world, and we are a preferred tour supplier for Japan travel. Our published tours can be sent to clients as they are listed on our site, or can be customized to fit their specific needs.

It depends how far in advance you prefer to plan. We book last-minute trips all the time, and also arrange tours that are planned years in advance. The main points to consider when booking last-minute are holiday and festival availability, and seasonal demand (e.g., cherry blossom season in Japan).

Please contact us by telephone (1-909-988-8885 or Toll Free 1-855-325-2726 ), e-mail ([email protected]), or via your travel agent when you are considering a trip. At that point, we can answer any questions regarding weather, recommended destinations, or special events taking place, and help you determine the best itinerary and destination(s). Once you are ready to book one of our trips, contact our office or your travel agent to make arrangements to place your trip deposit. We then book all services and generally have confirmations within 24 hours, depending on the extent of your services.

Internal flights are included in our tour prices unless otherwise specified. The addition of international airfare is an additional cost to the listed tour price. Many of our clients prefer to book their own international flights using airline miles. As regards the operation of our tours, our services begin when you arrive at your first international destination.

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Japan Highlight Tour

9 Days Tokyo, Nikko, Mt. Fuji, Nara, Kyoto, Miyajima, Hiroshima

Provides a great overview of Japan. Great for first time visitors.

Day Tours From Kyoto

Day tours departure from Kyoto exploring Kyoto highlights and its surrounding.

Day Tours From Tokyo

Day tours departure from Tokyo exploring Tokyo highlights and its surrounding.

Essence of Japan Tour

9 Days Tokyo, Mt. Fuji, Kyoto, Takayama, Shirakawago, Kanazawa

Tour visiting Japan’s major highlights and historical UNESCO villages.

Classic Japan Tour

6 Days Tokyo, Mt. Fuji, Kyoto, Nara

Great tour package provides an overview of Japan’s beautiful scenery and culture.

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Our Japan tours weave both ancient and present day by land and sea as you discover a country steeped in traditions dating back thousands of years but also in a continual state of rapid flux, with fads, fashions, and technologies that are everchanging.

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Welcome to Japan

Discover the revered traditions and serene beauty that infuse life here… from the heart of Japan on Honshu Island … to the multiple night stays in the modern city of Tokyo and magical Kyoto… experience the "Japanese Alps" where the mountains reach 9,000 + feet… and dine Japanese style sans yukatas... to a background of musical entertainment. You will return home with an in-depth cultural portrait of this fascinating island nation.  

Tokyo, japan, kyoto, japan, japan's geisha culture, the mysteries of japan's geisha traditions.

Kyoto is considered the birthplace of Japan's geisha culture, with the historic Gion district at its heart. To become a geiko, the preferred term for geisha, women must spend years in training as a maiko, perfecting lessons in traditional dance, musical instruments, flower arranging, tea ceremonies, calligraphy, painting and the art of conversation. Seeing them perform is an exclusive privilege and a highlight of your visit to Japan. Learn more about their elite world as our insider expert leads you through the back streets of the city's geisha districts, sharing stories along the way.

Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo

Futuristic luxury in tokyo's heart.

High above the city, Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo is a five-star luxury hotel with views to take your breath away. Exuding crisp, contemporary style, this city-center gem prides itself on its excellent technology... a renowned spa featuring a range of relaxing and rejuvenating treatments and therapies... seven innovative restaurants (three of which are Michelin-starred) offering a variety of cuisines... several lounges and bars.... and impeccable service.

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"Japan is one of the most captivating places on earth, where you can go from Tokyo's flashy streets to the snowy peak of Mount Fuji or a traditional ryokan in a day."

Travel Director

Admire the snow-capped Mount Fuji

See the towering peak of Mount Fuji, the tallest mountain in Japan and a UNESCO-listed site. We’ll take you up to the 5th station of Mount Fuji, a spectacular vantage point at 7,545 feet, before taking a ride on the Kachikachiyama Ropeway with views of Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi.

Take a high-speed bullet train to Kyoto

Board the high-speed bullet train to Kyoto, the former capital of Japan and the ancient epicentre of Japanese culture. After whizzing through the country, you’ll meet the locals at a traditional ryokan and learn about traditional Japanese customs, then explore the Gion District and glittering Kinkakuji Temple, the symbol of Kyoto.

Experience a traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony

We’ll introduce you to a professional Tea Master who has spent many years learning the craft of the tea ceremony. You’ll learn about the history of Japanese tea making, and watch how the matcha is prepared with a bamboo whisk. You’ll even have a go at making (and tasting) your own tea.

Admire Osaka from the Floating Garden Observatory

The Floating Garden Observatory is an open-air viewing platform, stretching between the two towers of the Umeda Sky Building. We’ll take you to the top of the 567-foot buildings for panoramic views over Osaka, including the city’s dazzling rivers, bridges and soaring skyscrapers.

Wander through Ameyoko Street Market

With nearly 200 shops selling everything from fresh fish and spices to clothing and bags, you can spend hours roaming through Ameyoko Street Market. Located in Tokyo along the Yamanote Line tracks, it was once a black market selling American goods and sweets after WWII, when sugar was hard to find.

Our top 5 things to do in Japan

Our Japan tours take you from the dizzying heights of Mount Fuji and the bustle of the Ameyoko Market, to the tranquility of a Japanese tea ceremony.

Tokyo National Museum

The largest and oldest museum in Japan, Tokyo National Museum holds one of the world’s best collections of art and archaeological artefacts from Asia. There are over 110,000 items, including 87 National Treasures of Japan, and you can find everything from art along the Silk Road to medieval Japanese art.

Kotokuin Temple

Located in the city of Kamakuru, the Kotokuin Temple is a Japanese Buddhist temple of the Jodo sect. It’s home to the ‘Great Buddha’ or ‘Daibutsu’, a 37-foot bronze statue of Amida Buddha, constructed in 1252. The towering statue is a National Treasure and one of the most iconic sights in Japan.

Sensoji Buddhist Temple

One of the most famous temples in Japan, the Sensoji Buddhist Temple is the oldest Buddhist temple in Tokyo. It was originally built in 628 but was rebuilt after being destroyed in WWII. Today, you’ll find a beautiful five-storey pagoda, woven with incense and crimson eaves.

Best museums in Japan

A Japan tour package with Trafalgar takes you through the country’s top museums, from one of the world’s best collections of Asian art, to the ornate temples of Tokyo.

Although sushi is now a popular dish around the world, you’ve never really tried it until you’ve eaten the best in Japan. Our Local Specialists will help you navigate the endless varieties of this iconic dish, from raw vegetables to fresh fish wrapped in rice and seaweed.

Hida beef comes from a Japanese breed of black-haired cattle raised in the fresh air and pure water of Gifu Prefecture. Hailed as the best beef in Japan, we’ll take you to the top restaurants to try one of the beautifully tender and marbled Hida beef steaks.

A beloved dish found all over the country, ramen is a delicious Japanese noodle soup. Each region has a different variation and it usually involves a tasty pork or chicken broth, seasoned with plenty of rich flavors like miso, soy sauce and spring onions.

Best food in Japan

A Japan group tour with Trafalgar will have you indulging in the country’s fantastic cuisine, from fresh sushi to piping hot ramen.

What to pack for Japan

Adaptor plug

In Japan, the standard voltage is 100 V and the power plugs and sockets are of type A and B. The standard frequency is 50 / 60 Hz.

Comfortable sandals

Japanese culture requires you to take off your shoes when entering traditional restaurants, temples and ryokans. Bring a comfortable pair of sandals so you can easily slip them off all day.

Japanese phrasebook

Learning a few Japanese phrases will help you connect with the friendly Japanese locals, and offers the chance for some rewarding interactions.

Most shops and restaurants in Japan primarily accept cash, so it’s best to come prepared with some Japanese yen for your trip.

Versatile clothing

Japan’s weather ranges hot and humid to freezing cold, with mild springs in between. Pack versatile layers to be prepared for all conditions on your Japan holiday.

Pack for sustainable travel

Consider your environmental impact when you next take a trip and go single-use-plastic-free by packing a reusable water bottle, a steel straw, your own shopping bags and refillable toiletry bottles.

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Custom Luxury Tours Of Asia and The Orient

Asia and the Orient have the feel of a good mystery, one you can never quite finish. 

Luxury travel and tours in Asia and the Orient are for anyone who took to heart Rudyard Kipling’s stories as a child, and for those who possess a richness of spirit and a readiness to engage the unfamiliar.  Asia and the Orient encompass such amazing destinations including the Himalayan countries of Nepal and Bhutan as well as Tibet, incredible India with its dynamic cities, historic forts, heritage properties, tiger reserves, and cultural diversity; Thailand ’s floating markets and hill tribe villages; Cambodia ’s compelling Angkor Wat temple complex; and China’s renowned antiquities.

There is still so much more to Asia and the Orient that you will discover here.  We invite you to select your own storybook destination from the classic destinations here.  Big Five Tours & Expeditions’ award-winning luxury Asia and the Orient tours open the door for you to experience the magic and many mysteries of the Orient.

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Japan Cruises

Steeped in tradition and the harmony of ancient sites and natural wonders.

Take in all the sights of Tokyo on a cruise to Japan. As the country’s capital city, Tokyo is Japan’s leading center of business and finance yet also boasts deep roots in history. In the heart of the city, a dense forest glade shrouds visitors from the bustle and houses the Meiji Shrine, its setting symbolizing the separation of the spiritual from the worldly. Nearby, surrounded by stone walls, park area and moats, stands the Imperial Palace. With the Tokyo Tower and Mt. Fuji in view, experience the harmony of modern and ancient on a cruisetour of Japan.

Highlights of Japan Cruisetours

Embark on a magical voyage that leads you along the shores of Japan’s northernmost island, Hokkaido. Visit Nara’s impressive Todaiji Temple and the breathtaking Kasuga Taisha Shrine. Gaze out over the city from Tokyo’s Skytree Tembo Deck perched 1,148 feet. Experience the breathtaking beauty of Kyoto with stops at Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion) and Nijo Castle.

Up to 40% off cruise fares + free room upgrade + 3rd & 4th guests sail free †

Discover the beauty of Japan

Japan is a study in contrasts: tranquil retreats of profound beauty lay just outside cities where skyscrapers soar over stunning temples and shrines. Neon-bright architecture and tranquil gardens vie for attention amid the colorful Harajuku district and traditional kimonos. As the No. 1 North American cruise line in Japan with the “Best Asia Itineraries † ,” you can be assured that Princess® will be your guide to the colors, cultures and flavors that define this exciting country.

† Porthole Magazine

Shore excursions

Experience Japanese culture with an adventure in Tokyo that celebrates tea, the art of calligraphy, and the essence of the Japanese spirit. Get off the beaten path and discover Taketomi Island, the site of a beautifully preserved, traditional Ryukyu village just off the shore of Ishigaki. In Kochi, don a helmet and headlamp and explore the cavernous natural wonder known as the Ryugado Cave, a National Natural Monument. Stroll through a 17th-century garden and survey 700 years of history at a museum devoted to Satsuma’s Shimazu clan in Kagoshima.

Photo: A Buddhist temple in Kyoto

Princess Cruises is a proud partner of the  Japan National Tourism Organization .

If you are interested in the longer Japan cruises, you’ll love Princess® Epic Voyages. Learn more about our expertly curated itineraries for your next extraordinary adventure.

Japan Cruise Departure Port

Cruise from tokyo (yokohama).

There’s probably no other city on earth that embraces the future while honoring its beloved past the way Tokyo does. From its captivating architecture to its meticulously maintained gardens, shrines and temples, Tokyo never fails to delight and inspire. Here, you can learn the miraculous legend surrounding Sensoji, Tokyo’s oldest temple; savor the perfect cup of tea during a traditional tea ceremony; or peer into steaming sulfur springs inside Japan’s famed Hakone National Park, home of Mount Fuji.

Let Your Japan Cruise Journey Begin

Lifestyle & culture.

Delight in a traditional Bunraku puppet show, recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, in Osaka. Grab a wicker basket and head to the fields for a hands-on tea-picking adventure in the countryside of Shimizu. Discover the health benefits and social atmosphere of an “onsen” hot spring bath in Aomori. Tour Kagoshima’s shochu factory and learn how grains and vegetables create one of Japan’s spirited elixirs.

Photo: Ashiyu Foot Bath at Japanese Hot Springs in Tokyo

Natural wonders & landscapes

Be dazzled by the panoramic views of Japan's iconic Mount Fuji, an active volcano and the most popular tourist site in the country. Admire the spectacular views of Akita’s Oga peninsula, home of Godzilla Rock and mythical creatures called “Namahage.” Take in the sheer magnificence of Shiretoko Peninsula, an acclaimed  Condé Nast Traveler  7 Cruise Wonders of the World – it may just leave you breathless.

Photo: Mount Fuji

Festivals and unique experiences

Japan is a land of festivals and on select sailings you can experience the mesmerizing spectacle known as the Awa Odori Dance Festival in Tokushima, gaze in awe at the Kumano Grand Festival of fireworks, or get an up-close look at the exquisite parade floats used in Aomori’s annual Nebuta festival.

Photo: Nebuta Festival in Aomori

Onboard enrichment on Japan cruises

The journey is as extraordinary as the destination when you travel to Japan with Princess® – awarded "Best Cruise Line in Asia." From the time you step on board a Japan cruise, you’ll be surrounded by a wide variety of Japanese sights, sounds and flavors. Delight in the 400-year-old tradition of comic storytelling known as “rakugo.” Join in an evening of karaoke and watch folkloric dancers bring Japanese culture to life. Watch Japanese-inspired films with Movies Under the Stars®. Indulge in delicious regional dishes from the Noodle Bar or freshly prepared sushi. Sample spirited drinks such as fine Japanese whiskeys, sake and shochu. †

Photo: Japanese singers entertain on board

† Available on select itineraries.

Landmarks & Cultural Masterpieces

Explore Kochi Castle, a designated Japanese National Treasure, and the only castle in the country with its original wooded interior, castle tower, and impressive entrance still intact. Step into Japan’s ancient past with a tour of Aomori’s Sannai-Maruyama ruins, which date back 5,500 years and are designated a Special National Historical Site. Get a bird’s-eye view of Tokyo and Mount Fuji from the special observatory atop Tokyo Tower. Wander through the narrow, winding streets of Kanazawa’s samurai district known as Nagamachi Samurai House Row, which sits at the foot of Kanazawa Castle.

Photo: Otori Gate in Hiroshima

Art & museums

Admire the delicate work of 19th century "ukiyo-e," traditional woodblock prints, with a tour of Shimizu's Tokaido Hiroshige Art Museum. Continue your artistic journey as modern bronze statues depicting the spirit monsters known as "yokai,' greet you along the streets of Sakaiminato.

Photo: Traditional Japanese 'ukiyo-e' woodblock painting

UNESCO world heritage sites

The Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto (Kyoto, Uji, and Otsu Cities) is comprised of 17 locations in Japan within Kyoto and vicinity; including 13 Buddhist temples, 3 Shinto Shrines and one castle. The Hiroshima Peace Memorial (Genbaku Dome) is the only structure that survived the first atomic bomb (8/6/45), it has been preserved in the same state as immediately after the bombing. Nara (30 minutes from downtown Osaka) is home to 8 UNESCO sites, many conveniently located in the city center.

Photo: The Golden Pavilion in Kyoto, Japan

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Travel, Airfare, & Hotels: Let Princess Get You There

Princess EZair® Flights

Stress-free airfare

Remove the hassle from air travel and give yourself the gift of flexibility, time, and a thicker wallet with Princess EZair® flights. We negotiate lower rates with the airlines, allow you to modify your flight up to 45 days prior with no penalty, and protect you if your flight is late or canceled.

Princess EZair flight quotes are available on our cruise search result details pages.

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We get you where you need to go

Let Princess pick you up from the airport and take you directly to your ship or hotel when you arrive, even if you didn't book your airfare through us. A uniformed Princess representative meets you at the airport after you've retrieved your luggage and transports you directly to your ship or hotel without you having to worry about the logistics of navigating a new city.

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Stay longer and relax

Extend your cruise vacation, and simplify your travel plans with a hotel stay at the beginning or end of your cruise. With a Cruise Plus Hotel Package, a Princess representative meets you at the airport and pier, transporting you to and from your hotel. The package includes the cost of your hotel stay, transportation, luggage handling, and the representative’s services.

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How luxury train travel is turning the journey into the ultimate destination

Rocky Mountaineer’s luxe train journeys take passengers through some of the continent’s iconic landscapes, like Ruby Canyon on the Utah-Colorado border. Rocky Mountaineer/Supplied

Whether it’s the Eurostar between Great Britain and Europe or the Shinkansen of Japan, train travel is attracting voyageurs as a relaxing, scenic and sustainable alternative to flying. And as luxury hospitality brands continue to invest in heritage trains, they’re becoming destinations in their own right. At a time when the world feels increasingly like a whirlwind, slowing down to indulge in the romance of train travel has never been more appealing.

Iconic train routes around the world top many bucket lists, from the Rocky Mountaineer’s winding path that runs from Banff to Vancouver and canyon country in the U.S. to The Ghan’s traverse across Australia and, of course, the famed Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (VSOE). Under the guidance of the LVMH-owned Belmond, the world’s most famous train journey continues to evolve to delight today’s traveller, with some of its individual carriages having been transformed into suites that rival any five-star hotel. Next year, the VSOE will unveil l’Observatoire, a sleeper carriage with interiors conceptualized and designed by the French photographer and artist JR that will feature a bedroom with a double bed, ensuite and wardrobe, a lounge area, library and secret tea room with a fireplace.

Accor, the hospitality group behind Raffles and Fairmont properties, is betting big on train travel as well with the introduction of its own Orient Express portfolio. Launching next year, this collection of trains, hotels and sailing ships is aimed at bringing the myth and spirit of the Orient Express to life for the 21st century.

But make no mistake – these are more than just hotels on wheels. Climb aboard and it’s evident that there are plenty of special touches that turn the accommodations and amenities into an unforgettable experience.

“It’s something that really shows a certain level of luxury in a different light and it’s not necessarily this Toto-toilet experience that we’re seeing at the modern hotels,” says Jamsheed Pocha, co-founder of The Pelican Club, a membership-based club specializing in bespoke travel and lifestyle planning. “It’s really focused on slowing down and immersing yourself into what was really the original immersive travel experience. It’s not about getting from one place to another as fast as possible but about taking the time to enjoy the journey.”

Indeed, it’s easy to lose yourself in the bygone era of the ambiance on board. The train’s old-world interiors, like that of the British Pullman, which features a carriage reimagined by film director Wes Anderson, not to mention the views passing by the window, make for excellent social-media fodder, a flex that’s made the trains covetable locales for global luxury brand to stage over-the-top events. In March, Jean Paul Gaultier bought out the entire VSOE for an overnight journey from Paris to Venice, filling the suites with a coterie of influencers starring in a new fragrance campaign, which was photographed aboard the train.

The Andean Explorer, a Belmond train journey in Peru, offers travellers routes not reachable by car or plane. Belmond has partnered with Veuve Clicquot to give passengers a Champagne tasting experience while on board. Richard James Taylor/Supplied

To further augment the journey, some trains are introducing partnerships on board that span the culinary, fine wine and beauty worlds. In 2017, The Andean Explorer, another Belmond option, became the first luxury sleeper train in South America, opening up a new way to experience areas of Peru that are not as accessible by car or plane. Earlier this year, chef Jorge Muñoz took the culinary helm onboard Andean Explorer, introducing new menus that pay homage to the different regions of Peru. They also partnered with Veuve Clicquot on this journey to offer guests Champagne tastings under the expert guidance of their cellar master. “Trains are not just a way to transport, trains are the best way to feel the country,” says Javier Carlavilla, general manager of the Andean Explorer.

In Asia, Belmond has tapped Dior for the Dior Spa Eastern & Oriental Express, a carriage with two treatment cabins adorned in the Toile de Jouy motif where travellers can unwind with one of the Malayan-inspired massage services as the scenery passes by.

It’s this vision of creating a world to escape into that transforms the train from means of transportation to an unforgettable holiday. Pocha, who has made a career out of the best luxury travel around the world, says that nothing beats his journey aboard the VSOE. “It’s not an affordable experience but, when you do it, it’s a bucket-list trip.”

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• Travelers of all ages 
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• Those looking to sample Asia with limited travel time 

A Luxury Southeast Asia Tour – Hong Kong, Singapore, Bangkok

11 Days / 10 Nights – Tour Code (OPV) – Private Tour – Daily departure

Our Orient Impressions tour features 11 unforgettable days to three of the Pacific Rim’s flagship cities – Singapore, Bangkok and Singapore. But the similarities stop there — each destination embodies its own distinctive flavor of timeless traditions, magnificent architecture and warm friendly people. Each city has its own version of uncommon thrills, bustling nightlife, awesome entertainment and tantalizing cuisines, promising a most memorable vacation experience.

This remarkable journey starts in Hong Kong – forever known as the “Pearl of the Orient” –  a sophisticated, diverse and bustling metropolis with a tasteful blend of East and West. A gateway to the Orient, millions come to Hong Kong to savor its culinary delicacies, hunt for extraordinary shopping bargains, and soak up its electrifying nightlife. Hong Kong offers a world of possibilities. Feel the rush as you discover shopping bargains in virtually every corner. Savor culinary delicacies, from the world’s finest restaurants overlooking Victoria Harbor to the mouth-watering local fares at the street stand of your liking. Open your senses to Hong Kong’s dramatic contrasts of old and new – heritage homes and centuries-old temples amid towering skyscrapers; primitive fishing villages a stone’s throw from the bright lights of Hong Kong Harbor; and the iconic 110 year-old double-decker tramway rolling along side Central’s gleaming office towers. Fascinating heritage, amazing cuisines, superb entertainment – Hong Kong has it all.

Next up, Singapore – a dynamic city rich in contrast, color and vibrance where you’ll find a harmonious blend of distinctive cultures, cuisines, arts and architecture. Singapore is modern yet charming, sophisticated yet laid back, East but also West. It exudes cosmopolitan vibes balanced with timeless traditions – from Marina Bay’s world class casinos, to Little India’s cultural enclave, to Clarke Quay’s electrifying nightlife. Singapore wows the visitor in every way.

Finally, whisk over to Bangkok, one of Southeast Asia’s most exhilarating and exotic destinations. Its friendly people and endearing Thai culture will make any visitor fall in love with this magical kingdom. With its dazzling landmarks and boundless array of entertainment options, Bangkok appeals to your every whim. Marvel at the Thai Capital’s alluring temples of gleaming spires and golden Buddhas. Travel back in time on a long tailed boat exploring Damnoen’s timeless floating market. Dance the night away along the “River of Kings” or bar hop in one of the city’s numerous night spots. The opportunities are endless.

Your most unforgettable holiday experience awaits.

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TOUR INCLUDES:

• All Intra-Asia airfares per itinerary (economy class)
• 10 nights hotel accommodations of your choice
• Hotel breakfasts daily
• Private tour throughout: Sightseeing and transfers by private car, driver and professional guides

HONG KONG (3 nights)

• 3 nights at The Royal Garden Hong Kong (Superior) OR InterContinental Grand Stanford | New World Millennium (Deluxe) OR Peninsula Hong Kong (Premium)
• Private half-day walking tour of Hong Kong Island with visits to Victoria Peak, Central and Western Districts via public transportation*

SINGAPORE (3 nights)

• 3 nights at Grand Park City Hall | Paradox Merchant Court (Superior) OR ParkRoyal Marina Bay | Pan Pacific Singapore (Deluxe) OR The Fullerton Bay Hotel (Premium)
• Private half-day Singapore City Tour 

BANGKOK (4 nights)

• 4 nights at Hotel Muse by MGallery (Superior) OR Anantara Siam | SO Bangkok (Deluxe) | Rosewood Hong Kong | The Peninsula (Premium)
• Private half-day city tour with visits to the Royal Grand Palace, Wat Pho and Wat Trimit
• Private morning tour of Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
• Night Foodies Tour by Tuk Tuk

*Premium option features private sightseeing by Mercedes Benz in Hong Kong. Superior / Deluxe packages utilize public transport with private guide

Day 1 Arrive Hong Kong Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel by private car (driver only).

Day 2 Hong Kong Enjoy a private morning walking tour via public transportation to explore Hong Kong’s Central and Western Districts. Starting with a ride on the Star Ferry, we visit Central District, the business and financial hub of Hong Kong – a glittering show of mirrored towers, multi-million dollar high-rises and designer shops. Take a tram ride up to Victoria Peak, one of Hong Kong’s must-sees, offering panoramic views of the Hong Kong Harbor. Afterwards, visit a local wet market and take a ride on the historic double-decker Tramway (time permitting) before returning to your hotel by subway (MTR). Enjoy the balance of the afternoon at leisure. (B)

*** Note: Premium package features sightseeing by private car (Mercedes Benz) instead of by public transportation.***

Day 3 Hong Kong A full day at leisure to sightsee or shop. (B)

Day 4 Hong Kong / Singapore Transfer to the airport for your flight to Singapore. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. (B)

Day 5 Singapore This morning, enjoy a tour of Singapore’s cultural sites that include Kampong Glam, known as Singapore’s Muslim Quarter. Its 19th-century shophouses have been turned into stores selling textiles and casual restaurants serving spicy Malay and global fare. Continue to Chinatown to experience the tradition and modernity in the rows of streets and traditional shop houses lovingly restored into tempting eateries. Visit Sri Mariamman Temple. Built in 1827, it is the oldest Hindu Temple in all of Singapore, before returning to your hotel. Enjoy the balance of the afternoon at leisure. (B) Afternoon at leisure. (B)

Day 6 Singapore Today is at leisure to explore on your own. (B)

Day 7 Singapore / Bangkok Transfer to the airport for your flight to Bangkok. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. (B)

Day 8 Bangkok This morning’s tour includes visits to the Royal Grand Palace, Golden Cheddi, the Pantheon of Kings and the Emerald Buddha. Afterwards, visit Thailand’s most revered temples, including Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha) and Wat Trimit (Golden Buddha). Afternoon at leisure. 

This evening, embark on a foodies adventure around town. Traveling by Tuk Tuk, we’ll visit famous eateries around the city sample local street foods such as Khao Man Gai (Chicken & Rice), Pad Thai or Guay Tiew Kua Gai (Chicken Noodle Soup). Explore the Flower Market followed by a local temple before returning to your hotel by midnight. (B,D)

Day 9 Bangkok Today’s tour takes you to the world renowned Floating Market, where for over a hundred years, villagers have transported their agricultural products by canals to the center of trading at Damnoen Saduak. This incredible network is a labyrinth of almost two hundred branched canals lined with ancient Thai wooden houses and colorfully decorated by small wooden boats that contain fresh fruits and vegetables. Afterwards, visit the interesting Train Market, where local vendors and patrons line the train tracks, quickly disperse and reassemble as the train comes and goes. Return to Bangkok in the afternoon and enjoy the balance of the day at leisure. (B)

Day 10 Bangkok A day at leisure. Many optional tours (Ayuthaya, River Kwai, Cooking Lesson, Thai Kick Boxing, etc.) are available upon request. (B)

Day 11 Return Home Transfer to the airport for your departure flight onward. (B) 

Note: Itinerary may be operated in reverse depending on flight arrangements. 

****END OF PROGRAM****

• Prices are per person, based on double occupancy
• Price includes all entrance fees, domestic air taxes, hotel taxes & service charges
• Price excludes personal expenses, beverages, gratuities to guides and drivers
• Holiday surcharges and/or hotel blackouts apply for stays between Dec. 24 – Jan. 05
• All flights, hotels and land services are subject to availability at time of reservation

Southeast Asia Gallery

• Hong Kong’s Victoria Harbor
• Rides on the Iconic Star Ferry & Double-decker Tramway
• Singapore’s Little India, Botanical Garden & Tekka Center
• Bangkok’s Royal Grand Palace, Wat Pho
• Floating Market & Train Market
• Dinner Cruise of Night Foodies Tour in Bangkok

  Price Starting From:    $3,875

RELATED TOURS

• Far East Explorient
• Spectacular Far East
• Orient Extravagance (A)
• Orient Extravagance (B)
• Hong Kong & Bangkok Impressions
• Hong Kong & Singapore Impressions
• Hong Kong & Bangkok Elegance
• Thailand Elegance

ACCOMMODATIONS

Hong Kong – The Peninsula Hotel

Hong Kong – Royal Garden Hotel

Singapore – Pan Pacific Hotel

Bangkok – The Peninsula Hotel

Hong Kong – Intercontinental Stanford Hotel

Singapore – The Carlton Hotel

Bangkok – Landmark Hotel

Hong Kong – New World Millinium

Singapore – Fullerton Bay Hotel

Bangkok – SO Bangkok by Sofitel

WHAT PRIVATE TOUR MEANS

Travel with those you love

With a private tour, you travel with the only people you know and love. In the age of COVID-19, this is especially important, both in terms of safety and peace of mind. Why not make it your very own journey!

Flexibility

Personalized service, guaranteed departure.

Depart when you want, at your convenience. At Explorient, we guarantee your departure once we confirm your services, usually within 48 hours from time of reservation. So no need to worry about your trip being cancelled at the last minute! 

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