Explorer, 14 Nights Hanami Experience ex Tokyo Return

Seven Seas Explorer® took luxury cruising to the next level, from the palatial Regent Suite to the hand-picked art accentuating her halls.

Osaka, Japan
This charming city serves up amazing cuisine, superb shopping and a friendly spirit, with the restored Osaka Castle offering a spectacular lesson in Japanese history and culture. Osaka's nickname – Tenka no Daidokoro (The Nation's Kitchen) – originally referred to its Edo Period status as Japan's rice-trade hub; today it refers to the city’s reputation as a gourmand's paradise. Take in a 360-degree view from Abeno Harukas – Japan’s tallest skyscraper – before visiting the city’s spectacular aquarium and through Dotonbori, Osaka’s glittering heart. The immensely historical city of Kyoto is within reach, beckoning with spectacular architecture that includes thousands of Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines.

Beppu, Japan
Lovers of hot spring resorts, rejoice. Perched hillside on the southern Japanese island of Kyushu, Beppu bubbles with life thanks to a preponderance of onsen (hot springs). Enjoy a variety of rejuvenating bath types, from heated sand to traditional steam to hot mud. As one of the country’s most popular spots for enjoying a long, hot soak, most visitors find Beppu to be a delightful opportunity to absorb the more relaxed side of Japan’s vibrant culture.

Nagasaki, Japan
Japan's early gateway to trade with the West, Nagasaki boasts stately European-style homes, a bustling harbor and fusion cuisine (be sure to try Nagasaki’s version of Castella sponge cake, introduced by Portuguese missionaries). The vibrant city is also synonymous with the dropping of the second atomic bomb, making a visit to Nagasaki's Peace Park a necessary, and deeply moving, experience. Admire the city’s natural beauty atop Mount Inasayama. Drive through splendid countryside to browse the galleries of Arita, the birthplace of Japanese porcelain. Back in Nagasaki, wander Japan's oldest Chinatown, trying Chinese food reinterpreted for Japanese tastes.

Busan, South Korea
Located on the southeastern tip of the Korean Peninsula just two-and-a-half hours from Seoul, Busan is South Korea’s second-largest city. With its deep harbor, it’s also one of the largest commercial ports in the world. Often referred to as “the summer capital of South Korea,” Busan is known for its exceptional beaches, scenic cliffs and ancient temples high in the mountains.

Sakaiminato, Japan
Discover this hidden gem on Japan’s western coast of Honshu Island, where folklore and modernity intertwine seamlessly. Immerse yourself in the small-town ambiance and stroll along Mizuki Shigeru Road, adorned with statues and artwork celebrating the iconic Yokai world. Discover the bustling fish market, where local fishermen offer the freshest catches of the day. Sakaiminato's storied maritime heritage comes alive at the Sakaiminato Maritime and Science Museum, showcasing the city's seafaring traditions. Indulge in regional delicacies like Matsuba crab — Sakaiminato is Japan’s largest producer — and savor the flavors of authentic Japanese cuisine.

Kanazawa, Japan
Wander through the historic streets of Higashi Chaya District, where beautifully preserved tea houses transport you back to the Edo period. Immerse yourself in the artistry of Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan's three most exquisite year-round landscape gardens. Delight your senses with a visit to Omicho Market, where you can sample fresh seafood and local delicacies. Explore the innovative exhibits at the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, showcasing cutting-edge artistic expressions.

Akita, Japan
Explore the majestic beauty of Lake Tazawa, Japan's deepest lake, framed by verdant forests and surrounded b snow-capped peaks. Dive into the region's fascinating history at Kakunodate Samurai District, where well-preserved samurai residences and cherry blossom-lined streets evoke a sense of timeless elegance. Indulge in the local cuisine, renowned for its emphasis on fresh seafood and hearty mountain fare.

Hakodate, Japan
Hakodate abounds with natural beauty, historical buildings and delicious food. It is also famed for its abundance of hot springs, particularly the Yunokawa Onsen for a full body experience and the Ashiyu footbaths that are miniaturized hot spring baths designed for soaking one's feet. Also of interest is the Goryokaku fort. Enjoy a bird's-eye view of the huge star-shaped fortress and surrounding moat from the adjoining Goryokaku Tower Observatory. Shop along the Bay Area facing Hakodate Port, its row of old red-brick buildings have been converted into a unique mall. After browsing, have a tea break while taking in the harbor views.