Japan by Sea: Historic Cities & Serene Coastal Landscapes

With one foot in tradition and the other in the future, endlessly enigmatic Japan is one of the world’s most sought-after destinations. Experience the country’s enchanting landscapes and charismatic culture on an unforgettable luxury cruise to Japan aboard Luminara, the newest addition to The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. From culinary-rich Osaka to historic Hiroshima, charming Nagasaki, and elegant Kyoto, this exciting itinerary showcases a rare view of Japan as you sail through pristine waters and indulge in the best of its storied cuisine.

There is nothing quite like approaching a destination by sea. As you arrive in a Japanese port, you make a grand entrance through a city’s front door, used by ships and sailors for thousands of years. It’s a thrilling juxtaposition as a dazzling skyline rises into view and an exhilarating urban destination is yours to explore alongside time-honored landmarks and world-class culture.

Osaka’s standout pleasures are many, but chief among them is the food. This is the street food capital of Japan, after all, where mouth-watering ramen and curries lure you around every corner. An array of Michelin-starred restaurants boast soaring flavors and thrilling innovation. Wander through Dōtonbori, a neon-lit paradise where you can sample local delicacies such as takoyaki and okonomiyaki. For a break from the city's energy, explore historic Osaka Castle, an iconic symbol of the city’s resilience, or recharge in the abundant wilderness of Minoh Park, one of Japan’s favorite spots for forest bathing, where waterfalls, temples, and hot springs await.

Nagasaki’s allure unfolds from the moment you dock in its picturesque harbor. This vibrant port city, a compelling tapestry of international influences, gives a unique perspective on Japanese history. Stroll through Glover Garden, an open-air museum housing Western-style mansions that illuminate Nagasaki's multicultural past, and the serene grounds of Sofukuji Temple. Pay your respects at Nagasaki Peace Park, an exceptionally moving museum and complex dedicated to the city's history. Don’t leave Nagasaki without trying a bowl of Champon, a local specialty, or taking a ropeway trip up Mount Inasa, offering stellar twilight views of the city.

The City of Ten Thousand Shrines, Kyoto, enthralls with ancient wonders and contemporary sophistication. Built in 794 AD, Kyoto was Japan’s imperial capital until the mid-19th century and is today a treasure trove of cultural landmarks and serene gardens, including 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites. Among its many highlights are the shimmering Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), a gold-leaf-covered Zen temple, and the Philosopher’s Path, a scenic canal dotted with temples and cherry trees. Wander the otherworldly Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where towering stalks create a mystical atmosphere, and experience a traditional tea ceremony in one of the many historic tea houses.

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Some 200 miles west of Osaka, but with its own unique spirit, is Hiroshima,, a city synonymous with peace and resilience. Few places on earth are as deeply moving as Peace Memorial Park, a spacious, walkable area in the heart of downtown where the haunting Genbaku Dome and the Peace Memorial Museum stand as poignant reminders of the city’s past. Also downtown are serene Shukkeien Garden, meticulously designed in a resplendent lake setting, and the Hiroshima Prefectural Art Museum. Be sure to indulge in Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki before you depart.