Japan and South Korea Cruise

Springtime Sailing: My Unforgettable Journey Cruising Japan & Korea

If you’ve ever dreamt of waking each day to new horizons—ancient castles, cherry blossoms, tranquil gardens, and vibrant cityscapes—sailing Japan and Korea in spring is an experience I simply cannot recommend enough. I recently returned from an 11-night adventure with Norwegian Cruise Line that blended pure luxury, cultural immersion, and effortless travel. Here, I’m thrilled to share the highlights with you.

Setting Sail: Tokyo’s Dazzling Start

Tokyo was the perfect launchpad for my journey. I spent the day exploring Meiji Shrine and feasting on melt-in-the-mouth sushi before boarding the ship. The embarkation was seamless, the welcome warm, and that first cocktail on deck—watching the city shimmer beneath the sunset—was pure magic.

Mount Fuji (Shimizu): Tranquility and Awe

There’s nothing quite like waking to a sunrise over Mount Fuji. I joined a guided tea ceremony, wandered tranquil parks, and visited a wasabi farm where I tasted the freshest wasabi to date. Every moment felt connected to the natural beauty and gentle spirit of Japan.

Nagoya: A City of Contrasts

In Nagoya, I marvelled at the breathtaking castle and wandered through bustling market arcades. Sake tasting was a revelation—each sip a window into centuries of craftsmanship. It’s a city of surprises: both traditional and cutting-edge.

Kyoto (Kobe): Timeless Elegance

Sailing into Kobe gave me a full day to fall in love with Kyoto. My private guide whisked me through bamboo forests and golden temples, and I glimpsed the grace of a Geisha performance. Dining on exquisite kaiseki cuisine in a hidden restaurant was a true highlight.

At Sea: Pure Relaxation

A day cruising the Pacific gave me the chance to exhale fully. I indulged in a Japanese-inspired massage at the spa and took in panoramic views from my balcony—each moment tailored for total wellbeing.

Okinawa & Oshima Island: Island Discovery

Okinawa dazzled with its beaches, royal palace, and warm local welcomes. Meanwhile, Oshima Island offered peaceful hikes, soothing onsen baths, and true off-the-beaten-path adventure—moments of quiet I’ll always cherish. We hired electric bikes to make the most of the scenery.

Nagasaki: Poignancy and Resilience

In Nagasaki, I reflected in the Peace Park and explored historical quarters shaped by European and Japanese influences. It’s a city that lingers in the heart for its beauty and powerful history. Views from the observation platform were amazing.

Jeju, Korea: A Taste of the Unexpected

Our call to Jeju, South Korea, brought yet more marvels: volcanic landscapes, peaceful tea plantations, and the legendary Haenyeo women divers. The blend of nature and culture was simply inspiring.

Seoul (Incheon): A Vibrant Finale

Finally, in Incheon, I explored the energetic streets of Seoul—palaces, bustling markets, and a soothing Korean spa to finish the journey.

Why This Cruise Stands Out

This wasn’t just a holiday, but an enriching journey filled with personal discovery, gourmet flavours, and soul-soothing relaxation. Unpacking only once and waking up somewhere extraordinary each day was such a luxury. Every experience was thoughtfully curated—and as your Travel Counsellor, I can ensure your own itinerary is tailored to your dreams.

Thinking About Your Own Cruise Adventure?

If you’re curious about exploring Japan and Korea by sea, I’d love to guide you. I’ll take care of every detail: from pre-cruise stays to exclusive excursions and dietary needs—so you can simply savour every moment.

Get in touch to start planning your own springtime sailing, and let’s make this extraordinary journey yours.