Cruise Seabourn Encore: Japan, South Korea departing from Osaka

Osaka, Japan's vibrant metropolis, is a blend of modernity and tradition. Visit Osaka Castle, a symbol of Japanese history, and immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of Umeda and Namba. The city is famous for its culinary scene, offering specialties like takoyaki and okonomiyaki. Dōtonbori, with its neon signs and street food stalls, embodies the city's energy. Osaka is a cultural crossroads, with its bunraku theaters and contemporary museums.

Kochi, Japan, is a charming town known for its well-preserved castle, one of the few in Japan. Visit Kochi Castle to discover its samurai history. Explore the Hirome market for a taste of local cuisine. The Makino Botanical Garden offers a natural escape. Katsurahama beach is ideal for a relaxing stroll. Nature lovers will appreciate Shimanto National Park.

Sailing days are the ideal opportunity to take advantage of the facilities available. Depending on the ship, you'll have access to pools, whirlpools, spas, gyms and theaters, ensuring relaxation and entertainment for all.

Kanazawa, a Japanese city rich in history and culture, is known for its magnificent Kenrokuen Garden, one of the three most beautiful gardens in Japan. Explore the Higashi Chaya district, famous for its traditional teahouses and picturesque streets. The 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art showcases innovative works. Sample fresh seafood at the Omicho market and discover local crafts such as gold leaf gilding. Kanazawa harmoniously combines tradition and modernity, offering an unforgettable stopover.

Niigata, located on the coast of the Sea of Japan, is a vibrant port city known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful scenery. Explore Niigata's fish market for fresh seafood, or visit the city's many museums and art galleries. The city is also famous for its quality sake and surrounding rice paddies. Visitors can enjoy peaceful parks and beaches, or explore the nearby mountains.

Akita, a Japanese city rich in culture and nature, is famous for its summer Kanto festival. Visit the Akita Prefectural Art Museum and Senshu Park for an insight into local art and history. Stroll through the city's traditional Japanese gardens. The region's hot springs offer the perfect relaxation. Akita's cuisine, including kiritanpo and local sake, is well worth discovering. The region is also ideal for exploring the surrounding mountains and lakes.

Aomori, located at the northern tip of Japan's main island, Honshu, is famous for its Nebuta festival with its brightly colored floats. The city is a blend of modernity and tradition, where visitors can explore sites such as the Aomori Museum of Contemporary Art and the Sannai-Maruyama Shrine. Aomori Bay offers magnificent views and local cuisine based on fresh seafood, including scallops and tuna.

Hakodate, on Japan's Hokkaido island, is famous for its night views from Mount Hakodate. Explore the historic Motomachi area, with its 19th-century Western buildings. Visit the morning market for fresh seafood. Goryokaku Fortress, a pentagonal star, is a fascinating historical landmark. The local cuisine, especially grilled squid, is a delight.

Miyako, located in Japan's Iwate prefecture, is a coastal town with magnificent beaches and a rich cultural heritage. Explore the picturesque Jodogahama beach, known for its clear waters and rock formations. The town has a deep maritime history, visible in its museums and festivals. The local cuisine, with its fresh seafood, is a must. Miyako is also a starting point for exploring the picturesque surrounding islands. Having overcome the 2011 tsunami, the city is an example of resilience.

Sailing days are the ideal opportunity to take advantage of the facilities available. Depending on the ship, you'll have access to pools, whirlpools, spas, gyms and theaters, ensuring relaxation and entertainment for all.

The port :

Japan's Port of Tokyo is located in Tokyo Bay, some 10 kilometers from the city center. Easily accessible thanks to a well-developed public transport network, including trains and buses, it offers a convenient link for exploring this metropolis where tradition and modernity blend harmoniously. This port, anchored in the Kantō region, is an ideal starting point for discovering the many facets of the Japanese capital.

What to visit in Tokyo

Tokyo, both traditional and modern, is home to many treasures. Visit Senso-ji temple, one of the city's oldest and most important temples, located in the historic Asakusa district. The famous Shibuya crossroads, some 7 kilometers from the port, is a must-see, symbolizing the city's dynamism. The Akihabara district, about 5 kilometers from the port, is the heart of otaku culture and electronics. The Eastern Imperial Gardens, around 6 kilometers away, offer a haven of peace in the heart of the city.

What to see and do in the surrounding area

Tokyo's surrounding area offers a wealth of enriching excursions. Nikko, around 150 kilometers away, is renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage shrines and temples. Hakone, about 80 kilometers away, is famous for its onsen and views of Mount Fuji. Kamakura, around 50 kilometers away, offers a great escape with its great Buddha and beaches. These destinations around Tokyo allow you to discover a quieter, more traditional Japan.