Sponsored by Oceania Cruises
Delicate cherry blossoms that create a fairytale ambiance. Vibrant, beautiful cities honouring their storied histories. The rich heritage of Haiku. Off-the-beaten-track Kochi. A voyage in Japan with Oceania Cruises offers memorable experiences that will give you insight into this intriguing country.
Why does the world have a fascination with regional Japan? And how can you best take advantage of these wonderful Japanese cities on an Oceania Cruises’ voyage? Here are our top reasons:
Spring is a wonderful time to visit Japan; with cherry blossoms blooming the length of the country. The beauty of cherry blossoms is fleeting, and the Japanese are attracted to this sense of the passing of time and enjoying every moment of life.
Kochi is so often ignored because it is difficult to access but on an Oceania Cruises’ voyage you just might get the chance to visit this picturesque destination. It is a city of many temples associated with the 88 Temples Pilgrimage of Japan. Chikurin-ji Temple in Kochi City is located on top of a mountain overlooking the city. The deep valleys of Kochi where pristine waters flow and Japanese washi paper is made are equally fascinating.
Several land tours will visit the enduring cities of Nagasaki and Hiroshima which were affected by atomic bombings during World War II. Ashore you will be amazed at the recovery and great beauty of both these cities. Nagasaki is known as one of the three great night views of the world after Hong Kong and Rio de Janeiro. So, be sure to be up on deck if your voyage steams out at night – it is very romantic. Hiroshima, likewise, is a vibrant, clean, modern city. The good citizens of Hiroshima and Nagasaki are often asked why they don’t have anger in their hearts, but this strong emotion has been deliberately shifted to providing a message of peace to the world and a promise to young generations that we will never let this happen again.
The regional cities of Onahama and Sendai played host to the father of Haiku poetry, Matsuo Basho, in 1689. Walk in the footsteps of Basho on a walking tour land excursion and witness scenery that might just have you waxing poetic about these great cities.