Cruise Around Japan this Autumn

Has the shinkansen lots its allure for you? Or are you looking for an unusual way to see some of Japan's most famous sights? This October, Celebrity Cruises will begin offering a new seven-night, all-inclusive tour of Japan and Korea, stopping at some iconic locations such as Mt. Fuji and Busan, as well as more off-the-beaten-path ones including Kochi and Akita prefectures.

The 91,000-ton Celebrity Millenium cruise ship will set sail from Kobe on October 17, stopping the next morning in Kochi. There, travelers will be able to explore the small but beautiful city’s Sunday market, its castle, the famous Harimaya bridge, and a natural hot spring. Another option is a day trip to Cape Muroto and Muroto Global Geopark, which is home to some breathtaking scenery.

From Kochi the ship will continue on to Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city. Shore excursions there will offer passengers the chance to try some of the local fare, such as yakiniku (grilled meat) and seafood hot pots. Duty-free shopping is also available.

After a day of cruising at sea, the next stop is Akita in northern Japan, where the leaves should be beginning to change colors, wowing visitors with their natural beauty. Various day trip options are available, including ones that take passengers to the well preserved samurai town of Kakunodate, some of Japan’s most famous hot springs, Lake Tazawa, the Shirakami Mountains, and the stunning Dakikaeri Ravine.

One more day of cruising at sea will bring the Millenium to the port of Shimizu near Mt. Fuji. Travelers will be able to take in the view of Japan’s most famous peak from Nihondaira lookout, and options for lunch and a visit to the Kunouzan Toehogu Shrine are also available. Passengers can then choose to complete their journey back in Kobe, or to disembark in Yokohama.

While on board the 12-deck Celebrity Millennium, passengers can enjoy food offerings from 11 different restaurants, as well as many relaxation and entertainment facilities such as a light therapy pool, a theater, a spa, and a gym. With the exception of four restaurants, all meals are included in the tour fee, which starts at ¥149,800 per person for an interior room with double occupancy. Guests can also choose to upgrade to various other room types, including one with an ocean view or balcony, a suite, or a Concierge Class room.

The Deets

When: Sat, Oct. 17–Sat, Oct. 24 or Sun, Oct. 25, 2015

More info: For additional details on the Celebrity Millenium’s 2015 Japan cruise vacation, please click here.

Reservations: To speak to a travel agent or book a room on the Celebrity Millenium, please call 03-5404-8825.