We will begin our unforgettable journey with three nights in Tokyo, Japan's capital of contemporary culture and style. Our home in Tokyo is the five-star Hotel Chinzanso, a quiet oasis surrounded by 700-year-old gardens amid this bustling city. During our time in Tokyo, we will visit the most interesting neighborhoods, such as Ginza, Asakusa, Shibuya, Harajuku, Shinjuku, Roppongi, and Aoyama. We will tour important historical sites, such as Meiji Jingu Shrine and Sensoji Temple, and see outstanding contemporary architecture by top Japanese and international architects, such as Tadao Ando, Kengo Kuma, Toyo Ito, and Herzog & de Meuron.

Our visits include Tokyo's best museums, such as the Mori Art Museum, Nezu Museum, Edo-Tokyo Museum, and Tokyo National Museum, which will immerse you in art and history. We will experience Tokyo’s famous markets, such as the Tsukiji Outer Market or Toyosu Market, the Kappabashi kitchenware district and our favorite specialty food shops and department store food halls will introduce you to Tokyo's exciting culinary scene.

Upon request, Connoisseurs can arrange additional experiences in Tokyo, such as watching sumo wrestlers practice at a sumo stable, a private sushi-making lesson, a private garden tour, shopping for the latest Japanese gadgets, meetings with culinary and sake experts, private martial arts lessons, attending a kabuki performance, and visiting the Ghibli Museum.

April 3, 4, and 5 Overnight at the Hotel Chinzanso, Tokyo.

While at sea, there is much to enjoy aboard our floating hotel. Dr. Julian Brown’s insight on Japanese culture, history, and art will provide meaningful context for our upcoming destinations - bringing Japan’s rich heritage to life. You can also choose to indulge at the spa or simply relax.

Overnight aboard the Silver Moon.
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Kyoto and Osaka, two captivating cities in Japan, are situated just 30 miles apart, offering an effortless opportunity to explore their unique charms.

The bustling metropolis of Osaka, in the heart of Japan’s Kansai region, is a lively neon combination of ultra-modern skyscrapers, traditional merchant quarters, outgoing locals, and culinary delights. A historic port city and center of commerce, Osaka is the gateway to western Japan and offers a compact slice of life in a true Asian megacity.

An overnight stay in Osaka affords two days to visit both Osaka and Kyoto, a truly magical experience. Explore the contrasting vibes of ancient tradition in Kyoto and Osaka's vibrant, modern energy, easily accessible by a short bullet train ride between the two cities. With our well-planned itinerary, you can experience stunning temples, bustling markets, delicious food, and unique cultural immersion in both places in just a few days.

Kyoto

• Visit the iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple, known for its beautiful wooden architecture and stunning views of the surrounding valley.

• Stroll through the serene and picturesque Arashiyama Bamboo Grove with its towering bamboo plants.

• Explore the Gion district, famous for its traditional wooden houses, and the chance to see geisha (geiko).

Osaka

• Explore Osaka Castle, a grand historical landmark with beautiful gardens and panoramic city views.

• Dive into the Dotonbori district, a bustling entertainment area filled with neon lights, street food stalls, and unique shops.

Overnight aboard the Silver Moon.
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Hiroshima, located in western Japan, is a city of profound historical significance, symbolizing resilience, peace, and hope. Steeped in a tragic past marked by the atomic bombing during World War II, Hiroshima has risen from the ashes to become a vibrant and inspiring destination. The city offers visitors a unique and transformative experience, from poignant memorials and museums that honor the past to breathtaking natural beauty and warm hospitality. Whether one is drawn to explore the city’s rich history, immerse oneself in its vibrant culture, or simply bask in the serenity of its picturesque landscapes, a visit to Hiroshima promises to be an unforgettable journey that touches both the heart and the soul.

Overnight aboard the Silver Moon.
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A cruise through the Kanmon Strait Passage in Japan offers a unique opportunity to experience the stunning scenery of the strait, including iconic landmarks like the Kanmon Bridge, and the surrounding cities of Shimonoseki and Moji, which sit on the two major Japanese islands of Honshu and Kyushu, respectively, enjoying picturesque views of the strait and may also catch glimpses of local wildlife.

Kyushu provides an increasingly rare experience of Japan, complete with abundant nature and old-world energy. It can be challenging to find the kind of Japan we dream about—rooted in Buddhism and Shintoism, where locals value gift-giving as a means of cycling positive energy and consider time in nature sacred. In Kyushu, the coexistence with the earth is tangible; residents bathe in the island’s abundant hot springs and live with the constant awareness that the ground beneath them was formed relatively recently from the 1914 eruption of the still-active Sakurajima volcano.

Overnight aboard the Silver Moon.
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Busan, a vibrant city amidst mountains and ocean, boasts the historic Haedong Yonggung Temple with its lion-adorned pagoda. The Beomeosa Temple, founded in 678 AD, releases lanterns that illuminate the night sky around Mount Geumjeongsan. Gamcheon Culture Village, once a shantytown for war refugees, has been transformed into a colorful hub of art and expression, where artists have created interactive installations and painted the buildings in bright hues.

Overnight aboard the Silver Moon.
(B,L,D)

Today is an opportunity to relax and recharge after busy days of exploration. Take advantage of the onboard amenities, or participate in Japanese-themed activities, which may include:

• Cultural enrichment lectures: Experts will share insights into Japanese history, art, traditions, and customs.

• Japanese-themed entertainment: Enjoy live music with traditional Japanese instruments, themed dance shows, or karaoke with Japanese songs.

• Onboard workshops: Participate in hands-on activities like origami, calligraphy, or tea ceremony demonstrations.

• Spa treatments: Relax with spa treatments inspired by Japanese wellness practices, like traditional massages or facials.

• Observation lounge: Take in stunning views of the Japanese coastline.

Overnight aboard the Silver Moon.
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Kanazawa, the cradle of Japanese traditional culture and arts for the last 400 years, became a hub for traditional Japanese arts and crafts in the 17th century when the Maeda family, lords of the Kaga domain, brought together skilled artisans from across Japan. The city is renowned for its dedication to preserving Japanese culture, from the elegance of the tea ceremony to the extravagance of gold leaf decoration and the captivating performances of geisha.

Kanazawa is home to many exceptional museums focusing on arts and crafts, including the National Crafts Museum, relocated from Tokyo in 2020. In 2009, Kanazawa was designated a UNESCO Creative City of Crafts and Folk Art. Beyond observation, Kanazawa provides opportunities to experience Japanese culture firsthand, from wearing exquisite Kaga Yuzen kimono to learning to prepare local Kaga cuisine.

Overnight aboard the Silver Moon.
(B,L,D)

Having a couple of days at sea on a long cruise allows you to fully enjoy the ship's amenities without feeling rushed, relax and unwind without the pressure of exploring a new port each day, and potentially experience a more diverse range of onboard activities and entertainment options that might not be available on shorter cruises with more port days.

Overnight aboard the Silver Moon.
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In Aomori Prefecture, the northernmost region of Honshu, Japan, ancient rites and spiritual beliefs are still deeply ingrained in the daily lives of its people. This isolated region, often perceived as mysterious by other Japanese, holds a profound respect for the kami—gods or spirits—believed to inhabit the natural world. Visitors to Aomori are welcome to observe and often participate in local customs, including fire walking, waterfall meditation, and Shinto and Buddhist chants, and experience rituals that have been passed down for generations.

Aomori is considered an "off the beaten path" destination due to its relatively low international tourist traffic. It offers breathtaking natural scenery, unique festivals such as the Nebuta Matsuri, historical sites like Hirosaki Castle, fresh local seafood, and an authentic Japanese cultural experience.

Overnight aboard the Silver Moon.
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From atop Mount Hakodate, gaze down at the spectacular expanse of Hakodate city, its twin bays splitting the ocean. One of the first to open to international trade in 1859, the port boasts architecture reflecting influences from the West and beyond. The star-shaped Goryokaku fortress glows with natural colors and, during the season, a beautiful haze of cherry blossom. The adjacent Goryokaku Tower offers a sweeping bird's-eye view of the green fortress and mountain backdrop. While buses ascend the 335-meter incline to Mount Hakodate's peak, the ropeway, swinging above downtown buildings and over pine trees, provides the most scenic route.

For an eye-opening, bustling morning, experience the Hakodate Morning Market, where the freshest produce is distributed amid a cacophony of noise and activity.

Overnight aboard the Silver Moon.
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A relaxing day at sea before disembarking is luxurious. It avoids the stress of rushing to pack and allows us to enjoy the ship's amenities and activities. This itinerary offers a perfect balance between sightseeing and resting at-sea days. 

Overnight aboard the Silver Moon.
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Vista Suite - Waitlist Only

The Vista Suite, located on Deck 4, offers all the comfort and attention to detail that you can expect aboard. A generous expanse of interior comforts — elegant décor, stunning bathroom and ample seating area, make this a cosy home away from home. The seating area of the Vista Suite has plenty of room to relax, while large picture windows frame panoramic ocean views, the perfect backdrop for breakfast in bed!

• Suite size 335 sq.ft.

Waitlist Only

Panorama Suite - Waitlist Only

The Panorama Suite provides generous living space for voyagers. Located lower bow, Deck 9, the Panorama offers all the comfort and attention to detail that you can expect aboard. A generous expanse of interior comforts — elegant décor, stunning bathroom and ample seating area, make this a cosy home away from home. The seating area of the Panorama Suite has plenty of room to relax, while large picture windows frame panoramic ocean views

• Suite size 335 sq.ft.

Waitlist Only

Classic Veranda Suite

The Classic Veranda Suite provides generous living space for voyagers. Located lower bow, Deck 5, 6 of 11, the Classic Veranda Suite offers all the comfort and attention to detail that you can expect aboard — both inside and out. A generous expanse of interior comforts — elegant décor, stunning bathroom and ample seating area, make this a cosy home away from home. But perhaps this suite’s finest asset lies just outside, as floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto a private veranda, making every sunset feel as if it is yours alone.

• Suite size 387 sq.ft. including veranda

• Veranda size 64 sq.ft.

$18,195 per person, double occupancy*

Superior Veranda Suite

Located on the upper deck, Deck 7, 8, 9 of 11, and offering spectacular sunset views, the Superior Veranda Suite has all the comforts and luxury that you can expect aboard. A comfortable living space, attention to detail and a generous expanse of amenities, this stunning suite makes for a cosy home while on the seas. But perhaps this suite’s finest asset lies just outside, as floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto a private veranda, making every sunset feel as if it is yours alone.

• Suite size 387 sq.ft. including veranda

• Veranda size 64 sq.ft.

$18,795 per person, double occupancy*

Deluxe Veranda Suite

The Deluxe Veranda Suite offers a comfortable living space, close to the heart of the ship, Deck 6, 7, 8 of 11. With its preferred mid-ship location and all the comfort and attention to detail that you can expect aboard, the Deluxe Veranda Suite is the savvy traveller’s paradise— both inside and out. Elegant décor, stunning bathroom and ample seating area, make this a cosy home away from home. But perhaps this suite’s finest asset lies just outside, as floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto a private veranda, making every sunset feel as if it is yours alone.

• Suite size 387 sq.ft. including veranda

• Veranda size 64 sq.ft.

$19,795 per person, double occupancy*

Silver Suite

Step onto your terrace and bask in the calm feeling of the ocean breeze. Dissolve into the comfort of your king size bed. Prepare for the evening in the beautiful bathroom. The upper deck location, Deck 9, 10, 11 of 11, gives the most spectacular of sea views, the spacious living area allows for comfortable relaxing where cosy nights in become veritable experiences in themselves. The two-bedroom configuration of this suite makes this it the ideal option for families.

• Suite size 786 sq.ft. including veranda

• Veranda size 129 sq.ft.

• Living Room

$27,595 per person, double occupancy*