Northern Japan & Cherry Blossom Passage

Your journey begins in Yokohama, Japan’s historic port city just south of Tokyo. Stroll the waterfront promenades, take in the skyline of Minato Mirai, or arrive early to explore the city’s lively Chinatown and modern shopping districts. Be sure to allow ample time to reach the cruise terminal, check in, and settle into your suite before sailaway this evening.

Enjoy a full day at sea as you settle into life on board MITSUI OCEAN FUJI. Take time to explore the ship’s inviting lounges and open decks, linger over meals in your choice of dining venues, or join enrichment talks and gentle activities. This is a perfect opportunity to unwind, adjust to the rhythm of the voyage, and simply watch the sea and sky change throughout the day.

Nestled among green hills and island-dotted bays, Sasebo blends Japan’s maritime heritage with a relaxed coastal atmosphere. Explore the scenic Kujukushima ("99 Islands") area by sightseeing boat, or wander the waterfront promenades and local shopping streets near the port. Look for fresh seafood specialties, quiet viewpoints over the harbor, and photo stops that showcase both the islands and the city skyline.

Busan, South Korea’s dynamic second city, greets you with a dramatic skyline rising above sweeping beaches and busy harbors. Spend your day exploring colorful seaside temples, browsing the bustling markets, or heading to Haeundae Beach and the Gwangan Bridge area for iconic city-and-sea views. Expect a mix of modern towers, coastal promenades, and lively neighborhoods perfect for sampling Korean cuisine.

On Japan’s Sea of Japan coast, Tottori is famed for its sweeping sand dunes and rugged shoreline. Depending on your plans, you might visit the Tottori Sand Dunes for panoramic views over the ocean, stroll along quiet beaches, or discover coastal viewpoints where cliffs meet the deep-blue sea. This is a wonderful port for scenic walks, fresh sea air, and striking photographs of Japan’s wilder coastline.

Situated on the Noto Peninsula, Wajima is known for its traditional lacquerware, coastal scenery, and local markets. A call here may include time to browse artisan shops, sample regional snacks, or visit viewpoints where waves crash against rocky headlands. Enjoy the slower pace, glimpses of rural Japan, and opportunities to photograph charming streets and sea views.

Ryotsu is the main gateway to Sado Island (Sadogashima), long known for its gold-mining history, coastal landscapes, and traditional culture. From the harbor, excursions may take you along rugged shorelines, to historic villages, or out on the water in local boats. Expect scenic bays, working fishing harbors, and quiet corners of the island that feel far removed from the mainland.

The Oga Peninsula offers dramatic coastal scenery, fishing villages, and folklore linked to the region’s famous namahage ogre legends. A visit here may include drives along rugged headlands, stops at lighthouses and lookout points, and glimpses of quiet rural life. Have your camera ready for sweeping ocean views, rocky capes, and atmospheric weather rolling in from the Sea of Japan.

Located on western Hokkaido, Iwanai sits between mountains and sea, offering a quieter, off-the-beaten-path feel. From the port, you may head into the countryside for views of coastal cliffs and farmland or simply enjoy the small-town atmosphere. Depending on the season, expect scenes of snowy landscapes or lush green hills framing the shoreline.

Hakodate, on southern Hokkaido, is celebrated for its sweeping harbor views and hillside panoramas. Spend your time exploring the historic red-brick warehouse district, riding the ropeway up Mount Hakodate for a famous night view, or sampling fresh seafood at the morning market. The combination of bay, mountains, and heritage buildings makes this one of northern Japan’s most photogenic ports.

Your voyage concludes back in Yokohama, where you will disembark the ship and continue your onward journey. Depending on your plans, you may transfer directly to the airport, return to Tokyo, or spend extra time exploring the city’s waterfront neighborhoods. Be sure to keep passports and travel documents handy, and allow sufficient time for disembarkation procedures and transfers.