Explora Journeys : 9 nights from Hong Kong with Explora III
Mar 12, 2028

Beppu

Beppu is a Japanese city in the prefecture of Ôita, located in a wide and deep bay on the northeastern coast of the island of Kyüshû.

Famous for its breathtaking hot springs, Beppu is one of the three main hot springs in Japan. There are approximately 3,000 different chemical properties that produce over 100,000 liters of water per day, bathing the city in a cloud of smoke. It also offers an unparalleled range of spa activities, including ordinary hot water baths, mud baths, sand baths, and steam baths. The entire central part of Beppu, therefore, between the station and the coast, is necessarily very humid.
In the backcountry, don't miss over 60 stone Buddhas carved into the rock classified as a national heritage.
The port of Usuki populated by old houses in the style of "samurai district" dating back to 1600-1868. At the foot of Mount Takasaki, more than 1,700 Japanese monkeys live in the forest where they can be observed in some protected structures.
On the Ajimu plateau there is the largest zoo in Asia: about 1,300 animals, including bears, lions, giraffes, elephants, and zebras. The park can be visited on a "Jungle Bus" for people who don't own a car.

Kochi

Osaka

In Osaka, an ideal stop is the city's Castle, a historical symbol that offers a panoramic view and a taste of Japanese history. Afterwards, a walk in the Dotonbori district allows you to immerse yourself in the lively local atmosphere, between bright signs, typical restaurants and street food shops where you can taste specialties such as takoyaki and okonomiyaki. Not to be missed is a visit to the Shitenno-ji temple, one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Japan, for a moment of peace and spirituality in the heart of Osaka.

Set sail from Osaka, Japan's bustling and vibrant metropolis, known as the nation's kitchen and a hub of dynamic culture. This exciting port city offers a captivating blend of modern marvels, historical landmarks, and exquisite culinary experiences. Before embarking, explore Osaka Castle, wander through Dotonbori's neon-lit streets, and indulge in its famous street food. Osaka provides a stimulating and culturally rich starting point for your East Asian cruise adventure.

Cruises departing from Osaka open up a world of possibilities across the sparkling waters of East Asia. Whether you dream of discovering the ancient temples of South Korea, the futuristic cities of mainland China, or the serene beauty of other Japanese islands, Osaka serves as an excellent launchpad. Enjoy the seamless transition from the energetic streets of Japan to the luxurious comfort of your cruise ship, ready for days of exploration, relaxation, and unforgettable moments. Each voyage from Osaka promises breathtaking scenery and a deep dive into the rich tapestry of Asian cultures, leaving you with lasting memories.

Toba

Yokohama

Yokohama, Japan's second largest city by population, is a vibrant port city where history, typical cuisine, culture and entertainment come together in a perfect combination.

If you are looking for an alternative holiday away from the frenetic life of the big metropolises, Yokohama is what you are looking for! The port has played a crucial role for the city since its opening in 1859. Its importance is mainly linked to its proximity to the Japanese capital and its being the gateway to international trade in a historical period in which a policy of isolation prevailed in the country. This aspect is still visible today in the different districts scattered throughout the city where the descendants of the ancient communities that reached these places are located.

Emblematic in this sense is the presence of one of the largest Chinatowns in the world and an entire area that resembles, due to its architecture and buildings, the typical Western metropolises. If you want to admire the typically Japanese style up close, a visit to the Sankeien garden is what you are looking for! Inside there are various historical buildings, paths immersed in greenery and a unique vegetation that will allow you to immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions.

Always to enjoy some moments of relaxation surrounded by greenery, one of the most interesting destinations is also the Yamashita park. Located in an area once destroyed by one of the devastating earthquakes that have repeatedly hit the country over the years, it is the ideal place for a walk or to sit on one of the many benches having the city's bay as a panorama. Near the park is the Yokohama Marine Tower, a tower over 100 meters high from which you can enjoy a unique view of the entire city.

After spending a few hours in this place, given the proximity, you cannot miss a visit to the Yokohama waterfront. The area, in constant evolution, is known all over the world for its skyline in which huge skyscrapers and the Cosmo World amusement park with the huge Ferris wheel are the masters.

Relaxation, fun but also lots of culture! In the city, there are many museums such as: the Museum of Contemporary Art that holds works of art by internationally renowned artists such as Cézanne and Picasso, the Museum that traces the history of the port, and finally an entire museum dedicated to the history of instant noodles.

In addition to the museums, you will have the opportunity to try local cuisine at the various typical restaurants and stalls in the cities. Considering that this is just a taste of what the city has to offer, what are you waiting for? Choose a cruise that departs from Yokohama or that has the city as a stopover in order to enjoy its beautiful sights or discover Japan and South Korea!