Fly Stay Cruise - 16 Day Autumn Wonders with Japan & Korea 2027

Welcome to Tokyo! Make your own way to your hotel and check in. Spend the day exploring at your own pace, from bustling neighbourhoods like Shibuya and Shinjuku to historic temples, premium shopping districts, and exceptional dining experiences. Special InformationAirport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal may offer the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.

Today, enjoy Tokyo at your own pace, discovering the city's iconic landmarks and vibrant neighbourhoods. Start with a peaceful walk through the serene grounds of Meiji Shrine, then explore the bustling districts of Akihabara and Ueno, before taking in the elegance of the Imperial Palace Outer Gardens. Immerse yourself in the rich history of Asakusa, where you can wander ancient temples, browse for unique souvenirs, enjoy traditional Matcha tea, and sample a flavourful Japanese Izakaya lunch. In the afternoon, ascend to the Tokyo Skytree for breathtaking, panoramic views from the 350th-floor observation deck, taking in the sprawling metropolis below.

Once a quiet fishing village, Yokohama has grown into one of Japan's largest ports and serves as a gateway to Tokyo. Here, ancient traditions coexist with modern culture, creating a city like no other. Enjoy your final hours in Tokyo at your leisure before making your way to the cruise terminal in Yokohama to board Norwegian Jade in the afternoon.

Nestled in the shadow of Mount Fuji, Shimizu is one of Japan's most scenic ports. Stroll through the fragrant pine groves of Miho, home to a 650-year-old Japanese black pine, or enjoy sweeping views of Mount Fuji from the forested hill of Nihondaira. Take a bay cruise to admire the sparkling seascapes, explore Japan's first sushi museum, or step back in time at the archaeological site of Toro, which offers a glimpse of feudal life from 200 BC. Browse for traditional wooden crafts and regional fabrics, and treat yourself to yokan, a classic sweet jellied confection unique to the area.

Nagoya is one of Japan's most dynamic cities, blending centuries-old heritage with modern innovation. Begin your day at the magnificent Nagoya Castle, one of Japan's most important castles, renowned for its golden shachihoko (dolphin-like) roof ornaments and beautifully reconstructed Honmaru Palace. Visit the sacred Atsuta Shrine, one of the most revered Shinto shrines in the country, set among towering ancient trees. For something unique, explore the fascinating Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology, which traces the evolution from textile looms to world-renowned automobiles. Nagoya is also celebrated for its bold regional cuisine. Don't miss miso katsu (breaded pork cutlet with rich miso sauce), hitsumabushi (grilled eel served three ways) and tebasaki (crispy chicken wings) — local favourites you won't find anywhere else in Japan.

Nestled between the Rokko Mountains and Osaka Bay, Kobe is one of Japan's most elegant port cities. Famous worldwide for its exquisite marbled Kobe beef, the city offers a wonderful mix of cosmopolitan charm and traditional beauty. Explore the atmospheric Kitano district, where Western-style heritage houses from the 19th century line the hillside streets. Stroll through the vibrant Nankinmachi (Chinatown), one of Japan's three great Chinatowns, or take the Shin-Kobe Ropeway for panoramic views across the harbour and mountains. With a generous port stay until 7:00 PM, Kobe also serves as an excellent gateway to Kyoto — just 70 minutes away by train. Visit the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousands of vermilion torii gates, the serene Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) or the tranquil Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. This is a rare opportunity to experience one of the world's most culturally rich cities as a day trip from your cruise.

Enjoy a relaxing day at sea as your cruise heads northward along the Japanese coast. Take advantage of the many amenities onboard Norwegian Jade — relax by the pool, attend onboard entertainment, enjoy world-class dining or unwind while admiring sweeping ocean views from the deck.

Ishinomaki is a charming coastal city in the Miyagi Prefecture of Japan's Tohoku region. Known as a centre of manga culture, the city is home to the Ishinomori Manga Museum, a striking spaceship-shaped building dedicated to the legendary manga artist Shotaro Ishinomori. Wander the lively manga-themed streets lined with character statues, or head to the scenic harbour area to explore the thriving local fishing industry. For nature lovers, the nearby Tashirojima (Cat Island) and the pine-clad islands of Matsushima Bay — considered one of Japan's three most scenic views — offer unforgettable excursion opportunities. The city has shown remarkable resilience and renewal following the 2011 tsunami, and visitors will find a warm, welcoming community proud to share its culture and heritage.

The best way to take in Hakodate is from the summit of Mount Hakodate, where a gondola ride delivers you to an observation deck with breathtaking panoramic views of the city and bay. Step back in time at Fort Goryokaku, a star-shaped fortress steeped in history and the site of pivotal battles that shaped modern Japan. Stroll the sloping streets of the city and savour fresh seafood at the Hakodate Morning Market, where a traditional kaisen-don (seafood rice bowl) provides the perfect taste of Hokkaido's ocean bounty.

Set along the Sea of Japan, Akita and its surrounding prefecture are rich in natural beauty. Relax in the region's famous hot springs, or onsen, including Tamagawa Onsen, known for its rare, mineral-rich stones believed to offer health benefits. Explore pristine beech forests, visit Lake Tazawa, Japan's deepest lake, and enjoy seasonal cherry blossoms in Senshu Park. History enthusiasts can tour the city's exceptionally preserved samurai district by rickshaw, while panoramic 360-degree views await from Selion Tower.

Step into history in Kanazawa, the heart of Ishikawa Prefecture, where the Edo Period's samurai culture comes alive. Remarkably, Kanazawa survived World War II largely intact, preserving the charm of its old castle town, including the Nagamachi Samurai District and historic chaya entertainment streets. Capture the rows of teahouses in the geisha district, explore beautiful temples, immerse yourself in diverse museums, and wander the bustling Omi-cho Market that has thrived since 1721. Just an hour away, Kaga Onsen offers healing hot springs perfect for a relaxing day trip.

Maizuru is a scenic port city on the Sea of Japan coast in Kyoto Prefecture, offering a fascinating blend of naval history and natural beauty. The city is divided into East and West Maizuru, with the east side home to a historic naval port and the compelling Maizuru Repatriation Memorial Museum, which tells the moving stories of Japanese citizens returning home after World War II. The highlight for many visitors is the opportunity to take an excursion to nearby Amanohashidate, one of Japan's officially designated “Three Most Scenic Views.” This stunning 3.6-kilometre pine-covered sandbar stretches across Miyazu Bay, creating a landscape so beautiful it is said to resemble a bridge to heaven. View it from the hilltop park above, where tradition invites you to bend over and look at the sandbar upside down between your legs — giving the illusion of a floating bridge in the sky. Back in Maizuru, explore the red-brick warehouses along the waterfront, now converted into museums and cafés, and enjoy fresh local seafood at the Toretore Seafood Market.

Enjoy your final day at sea as Norwegian Jade crosses the Sea of Japan toward South Korea. Indulge in everything your floating resort has to offer — take in a show, enjoy a speciality dining experience, relax at the spa or simply watch the ocean from your favourite spot on deck.

Arrive in Seoul in the morning and make your own way to the hotel. Spend the day exploring the city at your own pace, discovering its captivating blend of 5,000-year-old heritage and modern skyscrapers. Seoul is a food lover's paradise, offering everything from sizzling street food stalls to refined fine dining. Sample savoury kimchi and bibimbap, enjoy freshly grilled Korean barbecue, or sip on traditional teas in charming teahouses. Don't miss the bustling Gwangjang Market for local favourites like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and hotteok (sweet pancakes), or head to trendy districts like Myeongdong for international flavours with a Korean twist.

Explore Seoul at your own pace, visiting the majestic Gyeongbok Palace, wandering the traditional streets of Insadong, strolling along the scenic Cheonggyecheon Stream, and enjoying the lively markets of Namdaemun. Visit historic pagodas, and browse the treasures of the National Museum of Korea and bustling antique districts. For a quieter pace, spend time in a Zen Buddhist temple or a recreated traditional village, or tour the DMZ to reflect on recent history. Alternatively, stroll through local fish markets and along the Incheon promenade to soak in everyday city life.

Enjoy your final moments in Seoul before making your way to the airport for your international flight. Thank you for travelling with Inspiring Vacations. We hope you had a memorable experience. Special InformationAirport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.