Emanating from one of the world’s greatest cities, the 15-night voyage from Tokyo to Seward — a picturesque, Alaskan coastal town influenced by its unique indigenous heritage — is an expansive journey in both distance and culture.
Emanating from one of the world’s greatest cities, the 15-night voyage from Tokyo to Seward — a picturesque, Alaskan coastal town influenced by its unique indigenous heritage — is an expansive journey in both distance and culture.
Embark on an extraordinary maritime journey from Japan to Alaska, starting with Tokyo’s vibrant urban sophistication and serene gardens before sailing on to Aomori’s primeval forests and unspoiled wilderness, then savoring Hakodate's stunning vistas and seafood delights, Kushiro's enchanting wetlands . Enjoy a luxurious Bering Sea crossing aboard Luminara, culminating in breathtaking Alaskan wildlife encounters and the scenic charm of Seward, Alaska.
Nature and Nurture in Japan
This epic maritime odyssey begins in one of the world’s greatest cities, Tokyo, where you can dine on pristine sushi and shop the Ginza district’s luxury boutiques but also get a serious nature fix. Amid Tokyo’s neon lights and futuristic skyscrapers, you’ll find dozens of spacious parks and beautifully landscaped gardens, which bloom with wisteria, baby blue eyes and canola flowers each May. One of the city’s largest green spaces, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, features close to 10,000 trees and various styles of gardens including a traditional Japanese landscape garden, English and French gardens, and a botanical greenhouse.
Your next stop is Aomori, meaning blue forest. Aomori is known for its primeval forests and many natural treasures, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Shirakami Sanchi; the archeological ruins of Sannai Maruyaman; and Hirosaki Park, famous the world over as a cherry blossom viewing spot; among others. A port city on Mutsu Bay, Aomori retains its Edo period (17th-19th centuries) architecture while also serving as a hiker’s paradise, with miles of unspoiled wilderness to explore.
In the port city of Hakodate, ride the cable car to the 1,095-foot summit of Mt. Hakodate for incredible vistas. On a clear day you can see out to the Tsugaru Strait and the Shimokita Peninsula. Hokkaido’s third largest city is also known for its exceptional seafood. Sample freshly caught crab, uni and more from 350-plus stalls at the morning market held by the JR Hakodate Station or sample breakfast specialties like uni ikura donburi, a bowl of seasoned rice topped with cured salmon roe and sea urchin. Walk off your indulgences at Goryokaku, a massive star-shaped fortress turned serene public park flanked by cherry trees
The Gateway to America
The six-day crossing of the Bering Sea enroute to Alaska allows guests to luxuriate in Luminara’s on-board amenities. Relax by the infinity pool, be pampered at The Ritz-Carlton Spa, join a morning fitness class and savor cuisine from one of the five dining venues on board.
Dutch Harbor on Amaknak Island is the gateway to the Aleutian Islands and considered one of the most geographically isolated regions in the Pacific Northwest. It’s also one of the world’s busiest fishing ports. Enjoy freshly caught seafood at local restaurants like Chart Room, known for its halibut and chips, or Harbor Sushi, which features wild-caught Alaskan salmon in creative rolls or sashimi style. Dive into the island’s World War II history at one of the local museums or explore the bay on a kayak tour — bring your binoculars as you’re likely to spot bald eagles, sea lions and otters.
Encounter Wilderness & Wildlife
As Luminara cruises toward Kodiak, enjoy breathtaking views of glaciers and fjords from the comfort of your terrace and keep an eye out for the occasional whale spout. The most awe-inspiring wildlife encounter awaits on Kodiak Island. The Kodiak Wildlife Refuge is home to around 3,000 of the island’s estimated 3,500 Kodiak bears — a large subspecies of the grizzly — and offers unparalleled viewing opportunities. Whether you explore by boat or on foot, you’re also likely to spy harbor seals and sea otters, elk, mountain goats and an incredible variety of birds including blue-winged teal, rock ptarmigan and black-footed albatross.
The voyage concludes in Seward, one of Alaska’s oldest and most scenic communities. Downtown, you’ll find charming independent shops and restaurants, like the Cookery, a refined seafood restaurant and oyster bar. Exit Glacier, a dazzling wall of electric blue ice, is just a 20-minute drive outside of the city and is viewable from the roadside. If you crave more wilderness, tack on a few extra days to explore nearby Kenai Fjords National Park.
