Sat, Mar 20: Meet your Ambassadair Travel Director at the airport before boarding flights to Tokyo, Japan.

Sun, Mar 21: Arrive in Tokyo and spend the remainder of the day acclimating to the city and the time zone! You’ll begin to feel the unique magic of Tokyo—where ancient traditions and cutting-edge modern life exist side by side in perfect harmony. This evening, gather for a Welcome Dinner to kick off this trip of a lifetime. (Meals: Dinner)

Mon, Mar 22: After breakfast, dive into the vibrant heart of Tokyo with a local guide. Stop in the city’s most historic district, Asakusa—home to some of its most colorful sights. Visit the city’s most historic Buddhist temple, Senso-ji, which also happens to be its most colorful. A nearby taiko drum shop offers the opportunity to play the taiko drum and learn about the craftsmanship and history of these sacred instruments. Pause for lunch at a local restaurant, then continue to the Fukagawa Edo Museum, which brings Tokyo’s past to life with immersive displays depicting daily life during the Edo period. From there, stroll through the serene streets of old Tokyo, where echoes of a 17th-century neighborhood still linger. The evening is yours to enjoy at leisure. (B,L)

Tue, Mar 23: Travel with your guide to Ginza for an exclusive cultural experience featuring a lesson in Japanese swordsmanship and a traditional tea ceremony. Don a hakama, the classic attire of the samurai, as you observe an authentic katana demonstration and learn the basic postures and forms of batto, the art of drawing the sword. After lunch at a local restaurant, continue to Tokyo Station to board the world-famous Shinkansen bullet train bound for Odawara. From there, transfer to a traditional ryokan in Hakone, where you’ll check in, unwind in soothing onsen hot springs, and enjoy a beautifully prepared dinner, rounding out a day rich in culture and relaxation. Overnight in Hakone. (B,L,D)

Wed, Mar 24: Begin the day with a scenic journey through Hakone, traveling by cable car from Gora to Sounzan before continuing by ropeway to Owakudani. If weather permits, enjoy sweeping views of Hakone and Mount Fuji, and witness the dramatic volcanic landscape where steam rises from the earth. Continue to Hakone Shrine, its striking red torii gate set against the waters of Lake Ashi and steeped in local legend. After lunch, visit a yosegizaiku workshop to see artisans create Hakone’s famous wood-parquetry crafts. Later, return to Tokyo by bullet train, with the remainder of the day at leisure. (B,L)

Thu, Mar 25: Discover the highlights of Tokyo on a half-day city tour. Visit the Imperial Palace Plaza and admire the iconic Nijubashi Bridge, set against a backdrop of elegant gardens and historic architecture. Continue to Hamarikyu Villa, a peaceful seaside garden where traditional landscapes meet the modern skyline. Stroll along scenic walking paths and enjoy the contrast of tranquil ponds and soaring city views. This afternoon, board the Azamara Pursuit, an intimate, upscale cruise ship known for personalized service and elegant comfort. The ship will overnight in Tokyo. (B,D)

Fri, Mar 26: Take advantage of your last day in Tokyo with several optional excursions to choose from. Perhaps a hands-on Kintsugi workshop would be of interest, where you’ll learn the art of repairing broken ceramics with gold, embracing the Japanese philosophy of beauty in imperfection. Book a visit to the Meiji Shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, visit the Tokyo Skytree (2,080 feet tall), or see a teppanyaki demonstration. The ship sails from Tokyo this evening. (B,L,D)

Sat, Mar 27: Spend a full day in Shimizu (Mt Fuji) with a variety of optional excursions showcasing the natural beauty and cultural highlights of the Shizuoka region. Choose from immersive experiences such as tours of ancient shrines, a medieval castle, botanical gardens, or a serene tea experience—all set against iconic views of Mount Fuji. For those drawn to nature, scenic landscapes await with sweeping park vistas, coastal forests, waterfalls, and even a gondola ride or lake cruise. (B,L,D)

Sun, Mar 28: Embrace a day at sea to relax, rejuvenate, and enjoy the amenities of your boutique cruise ship. Indulge in a treatment at Sanctum Spa, stay in ship shape with a class at the fitness center, or lounge the day away on the pool deck. This evening, choose to dine at Aqualina, specializing in Italian cuisine, or relish in a classic steakhouse experience at Prime C. There are plenty of exciting evening entertainment options too, from thrilling shows at Cabaret Lounge to intimate performances in the Living Room. (B,L,D)

Mon, Mar 29: Spend a meaningful day in Hiroshima with a choice of excursions that blend history, culture, and reflection, from iconic atomic bomb memorials and peaceful gardens to a scenic tram ride through the city. For a different perspective, opt for a sake brewery crawl in Saijo or take a ferry to Miyajima Island to visit the UNESCO-listed Itsukushima Shrine, famed for its seemingly floating torii gate. Tonight, an AzAamzing Evening® awakens your senses at Traditions of Hiroshima: An Evening of Kagura, Myth, & Dance. At the Grand Prince Hotel Hiroshima, enjoy a Sake Barrel opening ceremony, a 20-minute Kagura show including the Yamata-no-Orochi myth, and the lively Mihara Yassa Festival Dance.​ (B,L,D)

Tue, Mar 30: Discover the diverse highlights of Beppu, a renowned hot spring town located on the island of Kyushu, famous for its therapeutic and unique geothermal experiences. Excursion options beckon you to explore Beppu’s dramatic geothermal landscapes, from its famous “hells” and bubbling hot springs to a guided walk through Kannawa, where walking through its streets feels like stepping into a mystic, almost otherworldly landscape. Beppu Park offers the opportunity to take part in sand baths, where you’re covered in warm sand for a rejuvenating experience. Alternatively, you may instead discover the serene Usuki Stone Buddha carvings and historic Castle Town with streets leading to panoramic viewpoints. (B,L,D)

Wed, Mar 31: Enjoy a day in dynamic Busan, South Korea, filled with temples, pagodas, superb beaches, and mountains ideal for hiking with spectacular views. Options include exploring the ancient heritage of nearby Gyeongju, often called “the museum without walls.” It was the capital of the ancient Silla Kingdom (57 BC–935 AD) for nearly a thousand years, and many archaeological treasures remain today. You may also choose visits to other serene temples, discover bustling markets and modern landmarks, or indulge in hands-on culinary and food-focused experiences. (B,L,D)

Thu, Apr 1: Explore the diverse character of Kitakyushu, Japan. Narrowly avoiding destruction during WWII, Kitakyushu is all about embracing its past while looking forward to the future. Get acquainted with your surroundings with excursions from Kokura Castle and the historic Karato harbor to ancient sacred sites at Munakata Shrine. Other options highlight the region’s dramatic landscapes and artistry, including panoramic views from Mount Sarakura, a traditional sword dance performance, impressive limestone caves, and engaging museums that bring the city’s past and present to life. (B,L,D)

Fri, Apr 2: Savor the final day of your cruise exploring Kochi, a city renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and love of celebration. The city is home to Kochi Castle, one of only 12 original castles still standing in Japan. It’s also known for its vibrant Sawachi cuisine, including Kochi’s signature dish, a lightly seared bonito (tuna variety). Locals often enjoy it with a glass of shochu—a traditional Japanese distilled spirit typically made from ingredients such as barley, sweet potato, or rice. You’ll find that some of the excursions incorporate the local culinary influence. Choose from lively market visits, panoramic city touring, dramatic cave exploration, or a classic bonito roast—an unforgettable way to conclude your journey. The ship continues to Kobe, on Osaka Bay, to dock for the night. (B,L,D)

Sat, Apr 3: Transfer to Kansai International Airport in Osaka to board your flights home. (B)