Natural Wonders of Japan & Taipei

At once spirited and relaxed, Osaka is a dynamic city best loved for its culinary excellence, exuberant nightlife and vibrant locals. Transfer to Scenic Eclipse at your leisure, where your journey into wonder begins with a warm greeting by the crew and a glass of Champagne as you step onboard. This evening, toast the beginning of your luxurious cruise of exploration from the Observation Deck as you watch Osaka’s lights glitter on the shore. Please book your flight to arrive into Osaka prior to 02:00 PM.

Arrive this morning in the harbour city of Kobe on the island of Honshu. Compact and condensed between the sea and the Rokko mountain range, Kobe has a long history of maritime trade. Yet, despite its centuries-old role as a significant port, beautiful Kobe is a modern-looking city, having been completely rebuilt following a devastating earthquake in 1995. You may choose to explore on your own to learn more about this event at the Earthquake Museum.  If you prefer to spend the afternoon in the ultra-luxury of your Discovery Yacht, retreat for a touch of tranquillity at the expansive Senses Spa and indulge in a massage or treatment^, or refresh with a haircut at the salon. 

This morning, you will arrive at the port of Uno, the gateway to the garden city of Okayama, the second-largest city in the Chugoku region. Choose to spend your day strolling immaculately manicured gardens, admiring historic architecture or contemplating thought-provoking art.  Okayama is home to the stunning Korakuen Garden, which was commissioned by a feudal lord in 1687 as a place to receive guests. Styled in the traditional Japanese aesthetic with elegant ponds, bridges and sculptural plants, the Korakuen is ranked as one of the top three landscaped gardens in Japan. It sits across the Asahi River from Okayama Castle; dubbed ‘Crow Castle’ due to its black exterior, visitors can tour the historical exhibits here and take a bizen-yaki pottery class in the castle park studio.  Return to your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht this evening and unwind with a cocktail in one of the all-inclusive nine bars and lounges. 

Overnight you will have arrived at Takamatsu, the capital of Kagawa. Gazing upon the Seto Inland Sea, the port of Takamatsu is the gateway to the sea’s many stunning islands. From here you can travel along the longest road bridge in the world, the Seto Ohashi Bridge. A spectacular feat of engineering, the bridge lays out stunning views of this beautiful archipelago.   Explore the ruins of the waterfront Takamatsu Castle, wander the tranquil Ritsurin Koen garden, built by feudal lords in the Edo Period, and enjoy the local specialty of ‘sanuki udon’ noodles, famed for its delightful texture.   With an overnight stay in Takamatsu, you have ample opportunity to explore.

Revel in Scenic Eclipse’s exceptional amenities this morning en route to the port of Imabari in Ehime Prefecture. Indulge in a leisurely breakfast on the terrace at Azure Bar & Cafe, soak up the sun on a cabana by the Vitality pools, or enjoy a morning yoga practice at PURE.  After lunch, Imabari awaits your discovery. Set on the glittering Seto Inland Sea, this port city is a haven for avid cyclists. Pedal a portion of the spectacular, 70-kilometre Shimanami Kaido route, which traverses several bridges, including Tatara Ohashi, the second-longest cable-stayed bridge in the world. Those who prefer to remain on two feet can enjoy touring Imabari Castle, Oyamazumi Shrine, and lofty Kirosan Observatory Park perched atop Mount Kiro. You’ll have time to take in the sunset at the latter before descending to enjoy the local fare of yakibuta tamago meshi, a delicious roast pork dish.  Return to your opulent 6-star suite and request your favourite drink to sip as you watch Imabari’s lights fade behind you.

Arriving into port this morning, your day may begin with a moment of reflection on a visit to Hiroshima. Perhaps one of the most significant sites of modern warfare, this city ravaged by the atomic bomb during World War II has risen to become a living symbol of peace and rebirth. Enrobed in sombre history, inspiring perspective, and striking natural beauty, Hiroshima is a destination you will long remember. Visit the Peace Memorial Park and World Heritage listed Atomic Bomb Dome, where you can absorb the importance of Hiroshima’s history and admire the city’s determination to endure and overcome.   Return aboard in time for a long, leisurely lunch at one of the refined and relaxed eateries, such as Azure Bar & Café or the Yacht Club, as you journey toward the small island of Miyajima this afternoon. Well-loved for its serene, water hemmed views, Miyajima (which translates to ‘Shrine Island’ in Japanese) is known for its Itsukushima shrine and enormous torii gate, which, at high tide, appears to float above the water.   

Salute the sun as it rises over the water this morning during a yoga class at PURE: Yoga & Pilates Studio or, perhaps, opt for a lie-in amid the Egyptian cotton sheets of our signature Scenic Slumber Beds. Relish the ultra-luxury of your suite with a bespoke breakfast delivered to your verandah by your butler before spending the day discovering the unrelenting beauty of mountainous Matsuyama on the island of Shikoku.    Set on the edge of the gentle Seto Inland Sea, this city is a historic delight with the hilltop Bitchu-Matsuyama Castle its crowning jewel. One of Japan’s twelve originally surviving castles, visitors may ascend Mount Katsuyama via chairlift to admire the complex that includes two keeps, multiple turrets and cherry blossom-fringed grounds.  Return to Scenic Eclipse in time for a sundowner and enjoy your favourite cocktail, prepared to perfection by our world-class bar staff. 

Sail into the petite seaside city of Uwajima this morning. Sitting on the Bungo Channel that separates the islands of Kyushu and Shikoku, Uwajima’s pristine waters are perfect for pearling and fishing with the city offering many ways to discover both.  Uwajima is also home to one of the 12 surviving castles of the Edo Period, which presides gracefully over the city from an elevated plain. The Date clan resided in Uwajima Castle for 260 years and a more in-depth understanding of their rule can be gleaned from the nearby Date Museum, adjacent to the spectacular Tensha-en gardens.    Not far beyond the city limits, tenderly preserved townships nestle into iridescently green mountains that conceal dramatic gorges, such as Nametoko. Inhale the fresh mountain air and keep an eye out for deer, hawks and monkeys.    Enjoy the local specialty of jakoten, dried fish cake, or return to the incredible eateries aboard your Discovery Yacht for lunch. Spend the afternoon unwinding in the elegant Scenic Lounge.  

Relish a morning coffee on your private verandah as you admire the dramatic landscape of Kagoshima on your journey toward the city. At the southern tip of Kyushu, Mount Sakurajima volcano rises dramatically from the ocean, keeping watch over Kagoshima and painting a handsome and attention-stealing backdrop.    Unearth the feudal history and explore the palm-lined streets of Kagoshima or opt to spend the day on board, appreciating the stunning aspects of Sakurajima from the elegant Sky Bar. Take in the sun in a secluded cabana, revive with a dip in the Vitality Pool, and sip your favourite cocktail from the bar. 

Awaken to the luxurious haven of your 6-star suite to watch the sun dance across the crystalline waters of World Heritage-listed site Amami Oshima. The largest island in the Satsunan chain, Amami Oshima is an unspoiled haven for a diverse eco-system of endemic flora and fauna.   Stroll the soft-sanded beaches and immerse in the temperate waters of this natural gem. Uncover the immaculate beauty of the protected Kuroshio-no-Mori Mangrove Park. Before you return to the comfort of your Discovery Yacht this afternoon, take the opportunity to sample the local specialty of Keihan chicken rice, a dish that’s origins can be traced back to the Edo period.  As we sail onwards, dedicate your afternoon to wellness with a mindful practice in the Senses Spa located on Deck 7. Exhale in the sauna or plunge into a temperature-controlled pool to invigorate your senses as you gaze upon the expanse of the ocean beyond. 

Spend the morning indulging your body and reviving your mind in the 550sqm Senses Spa, unwinding in the expert hands of dedicated spa practitioners. This afternoon, feel restored and ready to plunge into the gem-like waters of Zamami Island in the Kerama Island group.  Renowned for its white-sand beaches and stunning waters populated with fascinating marine life, Zamami is the second-largest of the Kerama Islands. Slip below the surface for a refreshing swim or snorkel to marvel at the fervent underwater activity. Explore the charming seaside village and simply take in the tranquil scene. This evening, join newly made friends in the impeccable Scenic Lounge Bar to compare trip notes and relive the day’s experiences over a selection of all-inclusive premium beverages, including more than 100 varieties of whiskeys.

Rich with tradition and fascinating history, Okinawa has a captivating heritage enhanced by its breathtaking Pacific-hemmed beauty. Explore the prefectural capital of Naha to discover this former epicentre of the Ryukyu Kingdom. You may visit Kokusai Street to shop for mementos and absorb the vibrant local culture, or perhaps learn more about the Shuri Castle and the historic precinct.   Alternatively, enjoy a swim in the shimmering ocean before retreating to the inviting sanctuary and impeccable amenities of your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht. Enjoy your elegantly appointed suite while you prepare for an engaging private teppanyaki experience at Night Market @ Koko’s, or any of the other up to 10 on board dining experiences this evening. 

This morning, wake-up to find Ishigaki Island beckoning from your balcony in a dazzling spectrum of blue-green hues. Part of the Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park, the island is home to Japan’s southernmost city and is the gateway to the captivating Yaeyama Islands.   Enjoy a relaxed and delicious breakfast in the privacy of your ultra-luxury suite or share the inspiring views with your fellow guests at the Yacht Club. You may choose to revel in the sun, sea and vibrant coral reef of the island’s southern coastline; take a gentle hike to the north-east Hirakubo Peninsula or stroll the fascinating city centre. Then, back on board, relish a refined and elegant meal at French fine dining and Champagne bar, Lumière. 

Enjoy a relaxed morning on board today as Scenic Eclipse II arrives in port at midday. The city of Hualien sits on the east coast of the island of Taiwan, famed for its beautiful coastline. It’s the gateway to Taroko Gorge National Park, one of Taiwan’s most famous sites.  The landscape of Taroko Gorge has been formed by the great forces of nature, from typhoons and earthquakes to millions of years of erosion. Today, it is a patchwork of marble gorges, bright blue rivers and pockets of untouched forest. There are challenging trails for experienced hikers or gentler routes that take you past ancient temples, tumbling waterfalls and hidden caves. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the most spectacular moments. 

Today, it is time to farewell Scenic Eclipse after 17 magical days on board. Be sure to fit in one last indulgent breakfast at the Yacht Club or ask your butler to bring coffee to your suite so you can take your time packing up.  If you would like to explore more of Taiwan, Scenic can arrange post-cruise accommodation and suggest tours or activities.  Please book your flight to depart out of Taipei after 12:00 PM. The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the cruise will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.