VIBRANT AND SERENE

Embark your journey in Tokyo – an exhilarating metropolis overflowing with neon lights, futuristic fashion and dizzying electronic displays at every corner. This is where modern and traditional coalesce in perfect synergy. Explore Akihabara, a vibrant centre that is home to manga and anime culture, before moving onto Asakusa district, a historic area that used to showcase kabuki theatre during the Edo period. End your stay in Shibuya, a go-to spot for shopping and entertainment, made famous by the hectic yet joyful Scramble Crossing.

A gentle coastal city just south of Tokyo and one of Japan’s ancient capitals, filled with a profusion of shrines, temples and historic government buildings. Enjoy this cultural wonder where Shoguns and Samurai graced the streets alongside Buddhists. Visit the Great Buddha, an iconic bronzed statue that is the second tallest Buddha in Japan and dates back to the 13th century.

You will awaken in a bay just off Hakone where your yacht will stay at anchor. After breakfast, take a transfer to Hakone, a mountainous town known for its hot springs and spectacular views of Mount Fuji. Take a leisurely dip in an Onsen before your helicopter ride up to Mount Fuji.

Wake up in Nagoya, the fourth largest city in Japan and a hidden gem that effortlessly illustrates authentic contemporary Japanese culture. Take a tour of Nagoya Castle before heading off for a fun-fuelled afternoon at Legoland. Set sail in the early evening as your next destination awaits.

Today you will visit Wakayama, known as the spiritual heartland of Japan. An epicentre of sacred sites and pilgrimage routes exist within the UNESCO Kii mountain range, which you will be guided through during your day here. You will spend the early evening aboard your yacht ready to set sail, arriving at your next destination the following morning.

Arrive at Osaka, a large port city recognised for its energetic nightlife, modern architecture and exuberant street food. Take a morning stroll through Nishinomaru Castle Gardens and witness the distinctive cherry blossoms that are synonymous with Japanese art and culture. Afterwards, explore Katsuo-ji Temple and enjoy the experience of a traditional Buddhist temple with mist-covered bridges, koi carp ponds and vermillion pagodas. Spend the evening in Dotonburi – the epitome of Osaka nightlife, with towering neon lights and a stimulating hotspot filled with bars, clubs and appetising restaurants.

Kobe, the city where Wagyu cattle are raised, producing the finest cuts of beef recognised across the world. Take the opportunity to try Kobe beef, a cut valued for its marbled texture, rich flavour and mouthwatering tenderness.

Today you will arrive at Naoshima, an island known for its museums and contemporary art. A giant pumpkin lays at the tip of the Naoshima pier and as you draw closer the patterns become more distinct, revealing the extraordinary work of Yayoi Kusama. Spend a full day here visiting the various artworks sited across the island, as well as indoor exhibitions housed in exhibition spaces like the Chichu Art Museum.

Hiroshima. A place filled with a complex history that sadly shows across its damaged cityscape but offers a significant insight into the horrific events that took place during World War II. Now that the city has been rebuilt, a modern revival can be felt and the atmosphere is filled with optimism that has grown and evolved over the last 80 years.

Take an afternoon trip from Hiroshima to Miyajima. Here you will experience the famous Itsukushima Shrine, known for its majestic torii gate that appears to be floating in the sea.

A city with a long and fascinating history, and architecture that blends modern with traditional ryokan. Visit Matsuyama’s great mountain castle perched atop a hill with wonderful views of the city below. Spend the afternoon relaxing at the Dogo Onsen, a hot spring said to be about 3000 years old.

Home to some of Japan’s most delicious cuisine. Feast on an array of fine foods and enjoy the warm hospitality. Arrive with an empty stomach, leave completely satiated.

Historically, Nagasaki was Japan’s second oldest port and became a major shipbuilding centre in the early 20th century. Nagasaki has steadily rebuilt itself following the devastation caused by the atomic bomb, becoming spiritual hub for movements wanting to ban nuclear weapons. Spend the day sightseeing and as the night draws in, take a gentle walk up to the observation platform and witness breathtaking views across a city of glimmering lights.

The southernmost city on the island of Kyushu, nicknames the “Naples of the East” is filled with ancient forests, impressive volcanoes, and an appealing temperate climate. Visit the healing Ogawa Falls for a soothing touch of nature. Kagoshima is equally known for its marine activities, including snorkelling, diving and surfing.