Japan Specialist

Breathtaking views of Tokyo from above

Sailing through Japan: The Perfect Fusion of Land and Sea
2 DAYS IN TOKYO
We kick-started our memorable family adventure in Japan with two days in Tokyo, a bustling hub of over 42 million people. We stayed at a conveniently located hotel nearby the train station. The location granted us easy access to the plentiful wonders of the city.

• It was here that we hired an insightful guide from Tours by Locals to ease our way into Tokyo's breath-taking culture - from its magnificent monuments and awe-inspiring gardens to understanding the intricacies of the efficient train system. The highlights of our guided tour included exploring magnificent monuments, awe-inspiring gates, and serene gardens. The Imperial Palace stood as a testament to Japan's regal past and the cultural significance it holds for the people. We were captivated by the tranquility of Sensoji market street, a lucky spot leading to a beautiful Buddhist temple.
• A world full of discovery waited for us on the second day as we confidently steered our own exploratory journey. The iconic Shibuya crossing unveiled the vibrant energy of Tokyo. The birds-eye view from the towering Sky Tree offered an unrivalled panorama view of Tokyo's grandeur. We also made our way to teamLab Planets, a captivating fusion of artistic light, music, and anime becoming one with the art.

EMBARK CELEBRITY MILLENIUM, SHIMIZU
Embracing the spirit of adventure, next we boarded the luxurious Celebrity Millennium cruise ship for a 13-day journey around the island of Japan. 

• Our first stop was the tranquil town of Shimizu. A personal guide from Tours by Locals showed us breathtaking temples and a fascinating beach-side museum, giving us highlights of the rich local culture. The big surprise was at Temple on Mountain Point, where we hoped to see Mt. Fuji. The mountain was hidden behind clouds, adding to its allure. As our ship left Shimizu, the clouds finally moved, revealing the unforgettable sight of Mt. Fuji's peak. What an impressive and magical goodbye present!

KOBE, KYOTO, OSAKA
Day trips from our luxurious floating home, the Celebrity Millennium, allowed our family to embark on explorations of the Kyoto area, with delightful visits to Kobe, Kyoto, and Osaka. Each destination offered distinct history, culture, and mouthwatering culinary delights. 

• Our first stop was Kobe, renowned for its delectable Kobe beef. After a leisurely 1.5-hour train ride, we found ourselves at the stunning Himeji Castle. Its imposing beauty captivated us, leaving an indelible mark as our favorite highlight of the entire trip. As we made our way back to Kobe, we were excited to find a food cart selling the famous tangy Kobe beef.
• Our overnight stay in the Kyoto area provided the perfect base for exploring the region's cultural treasures. On our first full day, we hopped on a train to Kyoto, where we found ourselves in a small village embraced by a mesmerizing bamboo forest. We ventured on a huge walk to a hillside temple adorned with statues of temple guards. These whimsical stone creations, resembling little people, fascinated us as we learned about the local tradition of making wishes upon them.
• Our second day in the Kyoto area was dedicated to Osaka, a city brimming with historical significance and vibrant energy. The highlight of our visit was the renowned Osaka Castle, where we not only had the chance to admire its grandeur from the outside but also ventured inside.

KOCHI, BUSAN SOUTH KOREA
Next, our cruise took us to Kochi, Japan, and Busan, South Korea, two lesser-known places filled with surprises and local experiences. 

• In Kochi, we shopped, and we took advantage of a free shuttle service from Celebrity to explore Kochi Castle. Although we didn't enter, we marveled at the castle's majestic beauty from the outside. Its well-maintained grounds and breathtaking surroundings left us in awe.
• In Busan, our family once again opted for a private guide from Tours by Locals, who tailored the day to our preferences. Our guide facilitated a visit to a mesmerizing temple on the water and a village that used to be for refugees but is now a fun, colorful place to walk around. Our taste buds were in for a treat as we delved into the culinary wonderland of Korean BBQ. 

HAKODATE, AOMORI
Next, we were treated to the wonders of Hokodate and Aomori, two captivating destinations that showcase the unique charm of Japan's northern islands. While our ship offered exciting excursions, we decided to take the opportunity to explore these ports of call on our own, immersing ourselves in the local culture and forging connections with the friendly locals.

For my family's trip to Japan, combining a tour and a cruise helped us uncover the cultural landmarks, vibrant cities, and breathtaking beauty Japan has to offer, while providing us the maximum level of comfort and luxury.  One of the main advantages of a cruise is you only need to unpack one time! Contact me to begin planning your unforgettable adventure into the Land of the Rising Sun.