Essence of South Korea & Japan: 11 days Tokyo to Busan

Your journey begins in Tokyo, where you’ll board your luxury Emerald yacht and set sail across Japan’s captivating waters. With its dazzling skyline, vibrant neighbourhoods, and seamless blend of ancient traditions and futuristic innovation, Tokyo offers a lively introduction to the extraordinary experiences that await on your unforgettable voyage. 

Please book your flight to arrive into Tokyo prior to 02:00 PM.

Set against the majesty of Mount Fuji, Shimizu is considered one of Japan’s most beautiful ports. With a history dating back to the Nara Period and framed by stunning natural scenery, Shimizu offers a wealth of inspiring sights. Discover rich Japanese culture and nearby shrines, stroll through the town to immerse yourself in local life, and enjoy the renowned views toward Mount Fuji on clear days, when the iconic peak rises dramatically above the horizon.

Arrive in Kumano, a region steeped in spiritual history and natural beauty. Sacred sites such as the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trails, ancient shrines and tranquil forests have inspired travellers for centuries. With its serene rivers, coastal vistas, and rich cultural heritage, Kumano offers a peaceful and unforgettable stop on your journey.

Welcome to Kobe on Japan’s main island of Honshu, a major international port city framed by ocean views and mountain peaks. With a long history as one of Japan’s key gateways for global trade and cultural exchange, Kobe blends rich maritime heritage with a vibrant, modern identity.

Rebuilt and revitalised following the 1995 earthquake, the city today showcases a distinctive mix of history, culture, and international flair, offering an ideal setting for exploration and indulgence.

This morning, you will arrive at the port of Uno, the gateway to the garden city of Okayama, the second-largest city in the Chugoku region. Okayama is home to the stunning Korakuen Garden, which was commissioned by a feudal lord in 1687 as a place to receive guests. Choose to spend your day strolling immaculately manicured gardens, admiring historic architecture or contemplating thought-provoking art.

Hiroshima is a profoundly significant city, shaped by its history and defined by its enduring message of peace and resilience. The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum, including the iconic Atomic Bomb Dome, stand as powerful reminders of the past and invite reflection on the importance of peace. Alongside this, Hiroshima Castle and the serene Shukkeien Garden reveal layers of heritage and refined landscape design. Tree-lined avenues, riverside paths, and lively neighbourhoods complete a city that balances remembrance with a vibrant, forward-looking atmosphere. 

Arrive in Kitakyushu, Kyushu’s northern gateway where urban energy meets historic charm. Admire Kokura Castle and its serene gardens, the retro streets of Mojiko Port, and the dazzling night views from Mt. Sarakura, capturing the city’s rich history and serene beauty. Nestled between mountains and sea, this vibrant city blends tradition and modernity for an unforgettable day.

Discover Fukuoka, Kyushu’s dynamic capital and well-known culinary hub where ancient shrines meet modern vibrancy. Explore the serene Ohori Park with its tranquil lake, bustling Tenjin canal city, and the famous Yatai street food stalls showcasing Fukuoka’s unique blend of tradition, culture, and flavour.

Experience Hagi, a riverside city on the picturesque Abu-gawa delta, framed by mountains and natural beauty. The city’s historic Shizuki Park features remnants of a 17th-century castle, while the old town invites leisurely walks along streets lined with traditional samurai residences and preserved merchant homes. Cltural sites include engaging museums and workshops showcasing Hagi-yaki pottery, offering a hands-on glimpse into the city’s artistic heritage. 

Your luxurious yacht journey comes to an end in Busan, South Korea’s vibrant port city where bustling markets, serene beaches, and historic temples create a dynamic and unforgettable atmosphere. From here, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight home or onward travels, taking with you cherished memories of your extraordinary voyage along Japan and South Korea’s coast.

Please book your flight to depart out of Busan after 12:00 PM.

This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such, Emerald Cruises cannot guarantee the cruise will be operated unaltered from the itinerary stated above.