Japan/South Korea
Land of the Rising Sun: A Circumnavigation of Japan
Program No. 24833RJ
Experience Japan by sea, with a bonus day in South Korea, and discover the blend of tradition and innovation, geography and climate that makes the Land of the Rising Sun wholly unique.
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Itinerary
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date.
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All itineraries and excursions are subject to change. Weather and water conditions may affect the progress of the ship, and we may miss ports if it is not safe to dock. The operators reserve the right to change the content and duration of excursions without prior notice and so the cruise itinerary should always be regarded as provisional. Whenever possible, Road Scholar’s published daily schedule will indicate port arrival and departure times. Prior to departure, if there is a major change, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
18 days
17 nights
What's Included
46 meals (
16B, 14L, 16D
)
3 expert-led lectures
12 expert-led field trips
An experienced Group Leader
16 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Day
1
In Transit to Program
Location:
In Flight
Day
2
Arrive, Check-in, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Location:
Tokyo
Meals:
D
Stay:
Shinagawa Prince Hotel
Activity Note
Check-in available from 3:00 PM.
Afternoon:
After arriving at the hotel, check-in and take some time to unpack and relax. Attend an orientation meeting. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the program theme, the up-to-date Daily Schedule and any changes, discuss safety guidelines, emergency procedures, roles and responsibilities, and answer any questions you may have. Indicated times are approximate. Program activities, schedules, and personnel may need to change due to local circumstances. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Unless otherwise noted, all lectures and field trips will be led by our Group Leader or a local expert.
Dinner:
At the hotel, get to know your fellow participants with a welcome meal.
Evening:
Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.
Day
3
Tokyo Discovery
Location:
Tokyo
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Shinagawa Prince Hotel
Activity Note
Boarding a motorcoach with 2-4 steps up/down. Walking up to 2 miles, standing up to 2 hours.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will board our motorcoach with our group leader and discover Tokyo, Japan's capital and the world's most populous city. We will visit the Imperial Palace, site of the Shogun’s castle. Our route will take us by other areas of historical importance and give us a feel for the scale of the metropolis.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
We will continue our exploration of Tokyo at the Tokyo National Museum. The oldest and largest in Japan, the museum houses over 110,000 objects including 600 Important Cultural Properties. The museum is located on the edge of Ueno Park, a very pleasant park to stroll through.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
4
Check Out, Transfer to Yokohama, Embark Ship
Location:
Yokohama
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
MS Westerdam
Activity Note
Boarding a motorcoach with 2-4 steps up/down. Walking up to 2 miles.Coach ride to Yokohama is about 50 minutes.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
After checking-out of our hotel we will begin our half-day journey through Tokyo's cultural heart with our local expert, Today we will visit two iconic landmarks: Meiji Jingu Shrine and Zojoji Temple. Immerse yourself in the spiritual serenity of Meiji Jingu Shrine, nestled within a lush forest sanctuary. Discover the shrine's deep historical significance as you learn about the revered Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, and engage in traditional Shinto practices, enriching your understanding of Japan's ancient customs. Next, venture to Zojoji Temple, a splendid Buddhist sanctuary set against Tokyo's modern skyline. Marvel at the temple's architectural grandeur and explore its intricate designs, capturing breathtaking photos against the backdrop of Tokyo Tower.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
After lunch, we will ride to Yokohama and board the ship. We will have some time to unpack and begin to familiarize ourselves with the ship. We will participate with everyone on board in the ship’s muster drill when announced and proceed to our assigned muster stations. Please note that your departure is part of our Adventures Afloat programs. All routes and excursions are subject to change – weather and sea conditions may affect the itinerary. Sea conditions affect the progress of the ship, making it run late and sometimes miss ports because it is not safe to dock. Because of this, the cruise itinerary should always be regarded as provisional. The operators reserve the right to change the content of excursions without prior notice.
Dinner:
Aboard ship. Each evening aboard the ship, Road Scholar participants are invited to have dinner together with your Group Leader. Included beverages are coffee, tea, water; other beverages available for purchase. Other dining options are available for an extra cost onboard the ship.
Evening:
At leisure. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars and enjoy the amenities on board the ship. The ship is scheduled to leave Yokohama at 8:00 p.m. on our journey to Omaezaki.
Day
5
Omaezaki, Green Tea Farming Experience
Location:
At Sea
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
MS Westerdam
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach with 4-5 steps up/down. Walking of about 2 miles; standing up to 2 hours.
Breakfast:
Aboard ship.
Morning:
We will board our motorcoach and head out to a local Japanese Tea Farm. Shizuoka is world-famous for green tea, stroll among neat rows of the tea fields and learn how tea is cultivated with a local expert.
Lunch:
Aboard ship.
Afternoon:
Free time. This period of time has been set aside for your personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. Please refer to the ship’s daily program for a list of activities. The ship is scheduled to leave Omaezaki at 4:00 p.m. on our journey to Kobe.
Dinner:
Aboard Ship.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
6
Kobe, Kobe City Discovery
Location:
At Sea
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
MS Westerdam
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach with 4-5 steps up/down. Walking of about 2 miles; standing up to 2 hours.
Breakfast:
Aboard ship.
Morning:
This morning we will board our motorcoach with our group leader to explore Kobe. Known for its signature marbled beef, we will learn from a local expert how farmers raise their cows to produce the best beef in the world. We will also enjoy a city discovery of Kobe.
Lunch:
Aboard ship.
Afternoon:
Free time in Kobe or enjoy the amenities of your choice aboard ship.
Dinner:
Aboard ship.
Evening:
At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Kobe at 7:00p.m. on our journey to Kochi.
Day
7
Kochi, Kochi Castle
Location:
At Sea
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
MS Westerdam
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach with 4-5 steps up/down. Walking of about 2 miles; standing up to 2 hours.
Breakfast:
Aboard ship.
Morning:
This morning we will board our motorcoach with our group leader to explore the magnificent Kochi Castle, an architectural marvel steeped in samurai heritage. Delve into the inspirational legacy of Sakamoto Ryoma at the museum dedicated to his life, gaining insights into Japan's transformative Meiji era. Continue to Hirome Market, a gastronomic paradise where local flavors come to life. Indulge in freshly prepared sushi, tempura, and regional delicacies, savoring the essence of Kochi's culinary traditions. Free time will be given to enjoy some local cuisine, giving you the chance to engage with friendly vendors, discovering the stories behind each dish and forging connections with the vibrant local community.
Lunch:
Aboard ship.
Afternoon:
Free time in Kochi or enjoy the amenities of your choice aboard ship.
Dinner:
Aboard ship.
Evening:
At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Kochi at 9:00 p.m. on our journey to Fukuoka.
Day
8
Day At Sea, Road Scholar Lecture, Independent Activities
Location:
At Sea
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
MS Westerdam
Activity Note
Full day at sea. Scenic cruising Kanmon Strait
Breakfast:
Aboard ship.
Morning:
The ship will cruise the Kanmon Strait, a narrow channel of water that separates two of Japan's main islands, Honshu and Kyushu. The channel has long been important to maritime transportation and cargo ships, as it connects the Sea of Japan and the Inland Sea. We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.
Lunch:
Aboard ship.
Afternoon:
Free time to enjoy the various activities and amenities aboard the ship.
Dinner:
Aboard ship.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
9
Fukuoka, Japan-Hakata Discovery
Location:
At Sea
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
MS Westerdam
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach with 4-5 steps up/down. Walking of about 2 miles; standing up to 2 hours.
Breakfast:
Aboard ship.
Morning:
We will board our motorcoach and head to Hakata. Known as Fukuoka's business hub, home to some of Japan's most delicious cuisine, we will discover this city with a local expert.
Lunch:
Enjoy Hakata's famous ramen at a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
Free time to enjoy the various activities and amenities aboard the ship. The ship is scheduled to leave Fukuoka at 4:00 p.m. on our journey to Sokcho, South Korea.
Dinner:
Aboard ship.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
10
Sokcho, South Korea-Abai Village, Fish Market
Location:
At Sea
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
MS Westerdam
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach with 4-5 steps up/down.Walking of about 2 miles; standing up to 2 hours.
Breakfast:
Aboard ship.
Morning:
The ship will dock at Daepo Harbor on the Sea of Japan (East Sea). We will board our motorcoach and head to Abai Village, formed by refugees of the Korean War from North Korea. We will get a sense of displaced people's life and story with a local expert. We will also vist the local fish market.
Lunch:
Aboard ship.
Afternoon:
Free time in Sokcho to wander the maze of eateries and street vendors clustered around the cruise port or enjoy the amenities onboard the ship.
Dinner:
Aboard ship.
Evening:
At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Sokcho at 8:00 p.m. on our journey to Kanazawa, Japan.
Day
11
Day At Sea, Road Scholar Lecture, Independent Activities
Location:
At Sea
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
MS Westerdam
Activity Note
Full day at sea.
Breakfast:
Aboard ship.
Morning:
We will gather with our group leader for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.
Lunch:
Aboard ship.
Afternoon:
Free time to enjoy the various activities and amenities aboard the ship.
Dinner:
Aboard ship.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
12
Kanazawa, Geisha Quarters
Location:
At Sea
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
MS Westerdam
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach with 4-5 steps up/down. Walking of about 2 miles; standing up to 2 hours
Breakfast:
Aboard ship.
Morning:
Today we will discover Japanese traditions. Our journey starts in the picturesque Higashi-chaya district, an enclave frozen in time, where wooden teahouses whisper tales of geisha elegance. We will enjoy a traditional tea ceremony before continuing to the Geisha quarter for an enchanting performance. Enjoy the grace and artistry of geisha dances, musical performances, and traditional games that have captivated audiences for generations.
Lunch:
Free Time in the famous Omicho Market to enjoy some local cuisine.
Afternoon:
Discover the timeless allure of Kenrokuen Garden, a masterpiece of Japanese landscape design. Marvel at its meticulously manicured landscapes, tranquil ponds, and iconic stone bridges. Immerse yourself in the season's beauty. We will then return to the ship.
Dinner:
Aboard ship.
Evening:
At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Kanazawa at 8:00 p.m. on our journey to Sakata.
Day
13
Sakata, Maiko Performance, Rice Warehouse
Location:
At Sea
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
MS Westerdam
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach with 4-5 steps up/down. Walking of about 2 miles; standing up to 2 hours, at the Maiko Performance- steep stairs & steps, no elevators.
Breakfast:
Aboard ship.
Morning:
We will enjoy a Maiko Performance at a local teahouse. Maiko are Geisha's in training, they have six months of intensive training in dance, singing, shamisen (Japanese guitar) and other skills. Next, we will visit the Sankyo Soko Rice Warehouse.The plains around Sakata are known for high quality rice cultivation, the warehouses are where the rice is stored and shipped and most are still in use as storehouses.
Lunch:
Aboard ship.
Afternoon:
Free time in Sakata or enjoy the various amenities aboard the ship.
Dinner:
Aboard ship.
Evening:
At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Sakata at 6:00 p.m. on our journey to Aomori.
Day
14
Aomori, Sannai Maruyama Archaelogical Site
Location:
At Sea
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
MS Westerdam
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach with 4-5 steps up/down. Walking of about 3 miles; standing up to 2 hours. Outdoor paths at the archaeological site are paved in most areas, large dwellings have slopes inside and there are steps to some of the remains.
Breakfast:
Aboard ship.
Morning:
Our adventure begins at the Nebuta Warasse Museum, a vibrant tribute to Aomori's iconic Nebuta Festival. Immerse yourself in the festival's splendor as you explore illuminated floats, intricate lanterns, and immersive exhibits. Next, step back in time at the Sannai Maruyama Archaeological Site, an archaeological marvel from the Jomon period. Wander among excavated pit dwellings, ceremonial structures, and ancient artifacts, marveling at the ingenuity of Japan's prehistoric inhabitants. Return to the ship for lunch.
Lunch:
Aboard ship.
Afternoon:
Free time for independent exploration in Aomori or enjoy the amenities and activities on board. The ship is scheduled to leave Aomori at 5:00 p.m. on our journey to Otaru.
Dinner:
Aboard ship.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
15
Otaru, Sake Distillery
Location:
At Sea
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
MS Westerdam
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach with 4-5 steps up/down. Walking of about 3 miles; standing up to 3 hours
Breakfast:
Aboard ship.
Morning:
Experience a full-day journey through Otaru, where rich cultural heritage, scenic beauty, and artisanal delights await. Our adventure begins at a local Sake Distillery, Explore the craft of sake-making and enjoy a tasting. Next, stroll down the historic Sakamachi Street, a picturesque thoroughfare lined with well-preserved Taisho-era buildings. The architectural beauty evokes a nostalgic charm, housing boutique shops where local artisans craft glassware, traditional products, and confectionery. Savor culinary delights in cozy cafes, sampling Hokkaido's culinary treasures. Those that wish to stay in town to continue exploring independently are welcome to do so, alternatively you can return to the ship to enjoy lunch onboard.
Lunch:
Aboard ship.
Afternoon:
Free time to enjoy the various activities and amenities aboard the ship. The ship is scheduled to leave Otaru at 5:00 p.m. on our journey to Hakodate.
Dinner:
Aboard ship.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
16
Hakodate, Goryokaku Tower, Mount Hakodate
Location:
At Sea
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
MS Westerdam
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach with 4-5 steps up/down. Walking of about 2 miles; standing up to 2 hours
Breakfast:
Aboard ship.
Morning:
Our day begins at Goryokaku Park, a star shaped fort steeped in samurai heritage. Explore the fort's intriguing design and ascend Goryokaku Tower for panoramic vistas. Experience the city's evolution from its historical roots to its modern splendor. We will then board the Hakodate Ropeway for an exhilarating ride to the summit of Mount Hakodate. Enjoy views of the city and harbor below and explore the observatory, capturing postcard-perfect moments. Conclude our morning at the Hakodate City Tropical Botanical Garden, a lush oasis housing exotic flora and enchanting butterflies. Wander through tropical greenhouses, where vibrant orchids, palms, and carnivorous plants thrive. Immerse yourself in the Butterfly House, where delicate butterflies flutter amidst tropical blooms, offering a serene and magical experience. Engage with educational exhibits, learning about biodiversity and conservation efforts, fostering a deep appreciation for the natural world.
Lunch:
Aboard ship.
Afternoon:
Free time for independent exploration in Hakodate or enjoy the amenities and activities on board.
Dinner:
Aboard ship.
Evening:
At leisure. The ship is scheduled to leave Hakodate at 6:00 p.m. on our journey to Yokohama.
Day
17
Day At Sea, Road Scholar Lecture, Independent Activities
Location:
At Sea
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
MS Westerdam
Activity Note
Full day at sea.
Breakfast:
Aboard ship.
Morning:
We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.
Lunch:
Aboard ship.
Afternoon:
Free time to enjoy the amenities and activities of your choice aboard ship.
Dinner:
Aboard ship.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for disembarkation tomorrow. The ship is scheduled to arrive in Yokohama at 6:30 a.m. (subject to change).
Day
18
Program Concludes, In Transit From Program
Location:
In Flight
Meals:
B
Activity Note
This concludes our program.
Breakfast:
Aboard ship.
Morning:
This concludes our program. If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
Please Note:
This program has itinerary variations on certain dates.
Apr 09, 2026 - Apr 26, 2026
Mar 26, 2026 - Apr 12, 2026
Apr 09, 2026 - Apr 26, 2026
Apr 9 - Apr 26, 2026 Itinerary Differences:
Ports visited vary by departure. Please see the itinerary and select a date for full details.
