Exploring somewhere new by cruise is a great introduction to its sights, sounds and culture. One of the best places to do that is Japan. Japanese law requires cruises to stop in a port outside the country, so you’ll often get to explore Taiwan or South Korea as part of the trip. Here’s the itinerary we took on Norwegian Spirit – giving you a taste of what your next adventure could look like.
Day 0 – taipei – Taiwan
Taiwan’s eclectic capital is where old meets new. Temples are nestled in with skyscrapers and historic cultural venues. Check out the area around Taipei 101 for the best shopping, the Huashan 1914 Creative Park for independent food and drink stalls, or the Red House area for the sparkling LGBTQ night life. Ximen is a great base and we can recommend the Westgate Hotel.
DAY 1&2 – KEELUNG – TAIWAN
Our cruise was departing from Keelung, to the north of Taipei, accessible by rail, taxi or bus. We had an overnight here due to a port cancellation and we’re glad we did. Keelung delivered, despite the rain, with plenty to do port area, like visiting shrines and food markets. If you get a chance, head up the walking trail to Zhongzheng Park for some stunning views of city.
DAY 3 – ishigaki – Okinawa, Japan
Our first Japanese port and our first time in the Ryukyu Islands. Ishigaki is a tropical paradise, known for its impressive caves, the Yaima Village with traditional Okinawan buildings and the adorable spider monkeys. The UNESCO World Heritage site of Kabira Bay, where black pearls are cultivated, is the highlight of the island. Make sure you get off and explore the island.
Day 4 – naha – Okinawa, Japan
Naha is the prefectural capital, and a bustling, sun-kissed city. It has great shopping along Kokusai-dori, and it’s also home to Shuri Castle, the former seat of Ryukyu power. The castle itself is being carefully reconstructed but events are held in the grounds throughout the year. Make sure to stop by a Blue Seal – a famous Okinawan ice cream chain that’s well known for good reason. My personal recommendations are the ube or their signature Blue Wave flavours! For those interested in the history of the islands, take an excursion to the north for historical WWII sites.
Day 5 – DAY AT SEA
Relax as you cross the Sea of Japan towards the mainland and enjoy all the ship has to offer.
Day 6 – himeji – Hyogo, Japan
This industrial port might not seem the most inviting stop at first, but start by taking the shuttle bus into the city and grab a coffee in Dotour, a great value coffee chain. You’ll need that caffeine to explore Japan’s most impressive castle complex, Himeji Castle. Spend time in the grounds learning the history of this feudal castle, get ready to scale some very steep stairs up to the top for fantastic views. Go next door to Koko-en (Himeji Park) for a tranquil stroll and more great views of the castle.
Which lines have these itineraries?
Most of the major lines can be found in Japan through the year with a focus on Spring through to Autumn. Norwegian, MSC, Princess, Celebrity and Royal Caribbean home-port ships in the area.
How long are the voyages?
Journeys that cross from Taiwan, Hong Kong or Shanghai tend to be more than seven days in total. However, MSC have a few sailings that are a only few days long, if you’d rather spend more time exploring on land.
Any tips?
Pick your excursions well, as some cities can be self-explored with ease and you’ll get a better overall experience. Japan has many castles and shrines – they’re always impressive but don’t overdo it because there’s so much else to see. And make sure to try a Family Mart or 7-ELEVEN for snacks: you won’t be disappointed!
DAY 7 – KOBE – Hyogo, Japan
Another overnight stop due to a change in itinerary, but not to worry as we get to explore the Kansai region a bit more. We chose Kobe (whilst others went west to Hiroshima – coming up in future posts!). It’s beautiful port city with a modern waterfront, iconic tower and European-influenced architecture.
The city also gave us a hidden gem in the not-so-excitingly-named Nunobiki Herb Gardens… It was amazing. Nunobiki offers a cable car to the top and a winding stroll back down the mountain through beautifully crafted gardens with plants from across the globe. Stop off and use the footbaths halfway down, then relax in hammocks with views of the city below. Before you leave, eat some tender Kobe beef from the stalls dotted around the downtown area.
Day 8 – Osaka – Japan
The second metropolis of Japan – Osaka is a vibrant, youthful city. One day alone does not do it justice but head on over to the famous Dotonbori area for fanatic food, grab a picture with the Glico Man and hunt down the perfect souvenir of your trip in Don Quijote (aka Donki)…a chain of stores that is an experience in in itself. I challenge you to find something Donki doesn’t sell! If you have time head on down to the retro Shinsekai for more food and a glimpse into an older Osaka. If you have more time, take a trip to historic Kyoto or to Universal Studios Japan (USJ) for an epic day in the theme park.
day 9 – Shimizu (Mt. Fuji) – Shizuoka, Japan
Catching a glimpse of Mt. Fuji is always a thrill and you’ll have a great chance from Shimizu, the port closest to Fuji. Here you can take an excursion to viewing spots closer to the mountain or do what we did – jump in a taxi for a short ride to the Miho area. Pay your respects at Miho Shrine before strolling down the pine tree lined “Road of God” which leads to a pine forest and beach on the Pacific Ocean – time it right and you’ll be treated to stunning views of Fuji-san.
Day 10 – YokohamA – Kanagawa, japan
Getting off the ship can always be bittersweet…but less so when you arrive in Yokohama. At the impressive international terminal and leave your suitcases in the lockers if you’re staying in Tokyo a while to explore what Yokohama has to offer. See the Hikawa Maru, an ocean liner that survived WWII, head over to Japan’s oldest Chinatown area to see the mix of cultural influences. But save your hunger for the Cup Noodle Museum, an icon of contemporary Japan, and even make your own variety (unless it’s a Tuesday…and closed – no noodles for us!).
Taking a cruise is a stunning way to see Japan and be introduced to Taiwan. Want help making this your next adventure?
