From time immemorial, the shores of Japan have been the first part of Asia to be awakened by the rising sun. Each day the four main islands of Japan - Hokkaido, Honshu, Shikoku and Kyushu - would emerge again from darkness into light, revealing a land of steep mountains, verdant forests, simmering hot springs and wave-swept coasts. From ancient times, the land and people of Japan have met in the morning sun to create a rich and varied culture with a vibrant and fascinating history. Japan today is a society composed of traditions and customs that is both hundreds of years old and as new as the microchips in a personal computer. Timeless and unchanging, Japan today is at the forefront of the future.

Stretching for some 3,000 kilometers from Hokkaido in the north to Okinawa in the south, its terrain encompasses vacation pleasures that range from the world-class hiking and skiing of alpine peaks to the sunny pleasures of tropical beaches. Formed aeons ago by volcanic activity, some two-thirds of its area is composed of mountains, and it features many short, swift rivers, forested slopes and narrow coastal plains. With a population of about 123 million people, most of its citizens live on the four main islands, and particularly in an urban belt that runs from Osaka to Tokyo. Japan's climate ranges from northern temperate climes to southern subtropical lushness. Year-round, the Japanese landscape is subtly altered by the progression of four distinct seasons. The unique flavor of Japan's traditional culture, from the language of Haiku poetry to the patterns that make up a kimono's fabric, has been shaped and matured by its seasons.

For visitors, modern Japan offers a highly developed transportation system. Its "Shinkansen" Bullet Trains can zip you to many parts of the country at average speeds of 170/kph (with a maximum speed of 220/kph). A great variety of accommodations, from first-class hotels to rustic campgrounds, are available.
With a traditional culture nurtured in some 2,000 years of unbroken civilization, Japan's temples, shrines and castle towns are among its most seductive draws. For cultural enrichment, its native arts of Kabuki and Noh theater, Sumi-e painting and Ukiyo-e woodblock printing, Shakuhachi flute and Koto playing offer bountiful rewards. And for lively nightlife and relaxing entertainment, Japan's cities are hosts to opera and ballet, pop and jazz performers both domestic and from all around the world. 

JAPAN UNVEILED CRUISES - 14 day/13 night  Japan Cruising
Breathtaking scenery. Mind-opening cultural experiences. Wonderful food and wine. Congenial companionship. Taken separately, each is a delightful experience. Combined onboard the Spirit of Oceanus in Japan, they make each day a celebration, each evening a special occasion. Your voyage to Japan is filled with highlights. You'll visit stunning gardens and serene temples. You'll share a craftsman's delight in his work, and a child's pleasure in an ancient story. And, along the way, you'll form new friendships you'll treasure always. From 5349.00 US $ per person sharing. Departs Year Round with minimum 2 pax on SET DATES