Alaska to Japan: Ring of Fire to Ainu Culture

Anchorage is the largest city in Alaska. Located between mountains, it is a beautiful mixture of urban and wilderness. Thanks to its proximity to the Chugach State Park with its 45 species of mammals and the city's rich history, there is so much to be seen in this unique destination.

Nome is located on the edge of the Bering Sea, on the southwest side of the Seward Peninsula. Unlike other towns which are named for explorers, heroes or politicians, Nome was named as a result of a 50 year-old spelling error. In the 1850's an officer on a British ship off the coast of Alaska noted on a manuscript map that a nearby prominent point was not identified. He wrote "? Name" next to the point. When the map was recopied, another draftsman thought that the “?” was a C and that the “a” in "Name" was an o, and thus a map-maker in the British Admiralty christened "Cape Nome." The area has an amazing history dating back 10,000 years of Inupiaq Eskimo use for subsistence living. Modern history started in 1898 when "Three Lucky Swedes”, Jafet Lindberg, Erik Lindblom and John Brynteson, discovered gold in Anvil Creek…the rush was on! In 1899 the population of Nome swelled from a handful to 28,000. Today the population is just over 3,500. Much of Nome's gold rush architecture remains.

A naturalist’s paradise, the Pribilof Islands welcome three million seabirds and a million marine mammals each summer during the breeding season. Cruise beneath the cliffs of St. George, rocky outcrops that harbor one of the largest seabird colonies in the Northern Hemisphere. Watch for horned and tufted puffins, red-legged kittiwakes, crested auklets and rare Asian vagrant species seldom seen in North America. Go ashore on St. Paul, home to the majority of the Pribilofs’ more than half a million northern fur seals.

The Pribilof Islands in Alaska, often called the “Fur Seal Islands,” are a remote volcanic archipelago in the Bering Sea, famous for massive colonies of northern fur seals. The islands are also home to diverse seabirds, including puffins and auklets, and offer spectacular opportunities for wildlife photography. Rugged, windswept landscapes and rich natural history make the Pribilofs a truly unique and unforgettable Arctic destination.

A naturalist’s paradise, the Pribilof Islands welcome three million seabirds and a million marine mammals each summer during the breeding season. Cruise beneath the cliffs of St. George, rocky outcrops that harbor one of the largest seabird colonies in the Northern Hemisphere. Watch for horned and tufted puffins, red-legged kittiwakes, crested auklets and rare Asian vagrant species seldom seen in North America. Go ashore on St. Paul, home to the majority of the Pribilofs’ more than half a million northern fur seals.

Saint George Island is one of the remote Pribilof Islands in the Bering Sea, known for its rugged cliffs and vast seabird colonies. It’s a critical habitat for species like puffins, auklets, and fur seals, making it a top destination for wildlife enthusiasts and researchers. The island’s small community and windswept landscapes give it a quiet, isolated character shaped by both nature and its history in the fur seal trade.

The westernmost tip of the Alaskan mainland gives way to a 1,100-mile-long string of islands that separate the Bering Sea from the northern Pacific: the Aleutian Islands. Begin your exploration of this wildlife-rich archipelago at the Baby Islands, east of Unalaska. Here, dynamic tides offer the chance to look for sea otters and fur seals, as well as rare seabirds. Stand on deck as the ship navigates Baby Pass and be on the lookout for the islands’ wildlife. Arrive at Dutch Harbor, site of a fierce World War II battle and now one of the world’s most important fishing ports.

The Baby Islands in Alaska are a remote cluster of small, rugged islands off the Alaska Peninsula, famous for their rich seabird colonies and abundant marine wildlife. Puffins, murres, and sea lions can often be seen clinging to cliffs or lounging along rocky shores, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. Their wild, untouched scenery and dramatic coastal views offer a true glimpse of Alaska’s pristine, untamed wilderness.

The crumpled peaks, and tranquil scenery, of Dutch Harbor belies its history as one of the few places on American soil to have been directly attacked by the Japanese - who bombed the significant US military base here during the Second World War. Located on a string of islands, which loops down into the Pacific from Alaska, a visit to this Aleutian Island destination offers comprehensive military history, and extraordinary ocean scenery. Hike the volcanic, gloriously green landscapes, and look out for wonderful wildlife, like bald eagles, as they survey the surroundings. You can also watch on in awe, as incredible marine mammals crash through the waves just offshore.Dutch Harbor, gives you the chance to sample some of the rich local fishing heritage. Why not book yourself onto a voyage aboard a working fishing boat, to see for yourself how richly filled the waters of the Bering Sea are, as the hard-working fishermen pull bountiful supplies of cod and pollock from the water? The fish plucked from the Bering Sea are shipped to dining tables across America, and you’ll quickly see why Dutch Harbor is one of the US's most important fishing locations

With 69 islands, countless islets and tens of millions of seabirds, the Aleutians offer much to discover. Spend four days exploring these rugged and remote volcanic islands—some of which still harbor active volcanoes. Learn about the culture of the Aleuts, a fishing and hunting people who have inhabited these islands for millennia. Observe marine mammals such as northern fur seals, Steller sea lions and a variety of whales, as well as prolific birdlife. Witness how the weather–wind, rain, fog and glorious sunshine–impacts all aspects of life in this spectacularly scenic region.

The Aleutian Islands feature remote, rugged ports like Unalaska/Dutch Harbor, which serves as one of the busiest and most vital commercial fishing hubs in the United States. These ports are defined by their industrial character and dramatic volcanic backdrops, often requiring vessels to navigate challenging North Pacific weather and narrow, deep-water passages. While primarily working harbors, they offer intrepid travelers a unique glimpse into a frontier maritime culture surrounded by vast, treeless tundras and rich marine ecosystems.

As the ship sets a course for Japan, enjoy discussions with your naturalists as they set the stage for your time exploring the northern shores of Hokkaido. Join them on deck to identify the seabirds that follow us and the volcanic cones in the distance that make up the “Ring of Fire.” Be on the lookout for unexpected visits from whales and other marine mammals. There is also an array of shipboard activities to enjoy: attend a photo workshop with your National Geographic photographer, treat yourself to a massage or a wellness class or cozy up in the library with a good book. As you make your way to Asia, you will lose a day crossing the International Date Line.

Arrive on the northeastern shore of Hokkaido, your first stop in Japan. With a deep connection to the sea, Kushiro is known for a variety of seafood, fresh from the sea. Experience the bustle of the local market, where the daily catch is on display. Explore the Kushiro City Museum and delve into the rich history of the city and the traditions of the Ainu people. Following your morning of exploration, enjoy a meal loved by locals: Robata-yaki, or “fireside grilling.” You will select your favorite seafood and grill it over the hot coals at your seat—a very special treat.

Kushiro, known as the "town of mist", is situated in the south eastern part of Hokkaido. With about 200,000 inhabitants, it is the largest city in the region and the base for deep-sea fishing. The marine products industry of Kushiro has flourished since the early 20 th century and many streets of this port town retain features of this era. Thanks to its strategic location on Hokkaido's Eastern Pacific seaboard and the area's only ice free port, Kushiro is experiencing steady growth as an important economic, social and cultural centre. A literary atmosphere can be attributed to the poet and novelist Takuboku Ishikawa, who lived here in the early 20th century. To the north of Kushiro lies one of its most renowned attractions, the Kushiro Shitsugen, Japan's largest marshland. Stretching out over the majority of the Kushiro Plain, it accounts for 60 percent of Japan's wetland and was designated to become the country's 28th National Park in 1987. As the marsh is considered one of the greatest treasure houses of flora and fauna in Japan, its protection, preservation and wise use are promoted by a national agreement. Equally famous is the marshland as the habitat of the Tancho (Japanese Crane). At one time, it could be seen in many places in Japan, but their numbers dwindled in the Meiji Era due to over hunting and environmental changes. In the late 19 th century, the cranes were thought to be almost extinct. Then several dozens cranes were discovered in the depths of the Kushiro Shitsugen, and after establishing special crane reserves, the birds rehabilitation has succeeded.

Dock at Muroran and choose to drive to Shikotsu-Tōya National Park, filled with mirror-like lakes and forest-covered hills set against the silhouette of the snowcapped Mount Yotei stratovolcano. Alternatively, drive to the lush town of Shiraoi to visit the newly opened National Ainu Museum and Park, an open-air museum where visitors can experience various elements of Ainu culture.

Located in southwestern Hokkaido, about 130 km south of Sapporo, Muroran runs along the coast and takes up most of the peninsula area. The southwest coast of the peninsula is formed of huge 100-meter cliffs and faces Uchiura Bay, while the southeastern coast of the peninsula meets the Pacific Ocean. The large, deep, water port dates from 1872 made the city an industrial hub, and the town’s nickname “the city of steel”, gives you more or less a feel for what one can expect. Despite not being a tourist hotspot, visitors can expect an authentic taste of Japan that is undiluted. Natural splendor abounds, 5 km from the port will find you at the foot of Cape Chikyu. Hike the 147 meters to the observatory to witness some stunning vistas across the arching Pacific Ocean or travel to the Jigoku-Dani Hot Springs. Known as “Hell Valley” because of the bubbling, sulphuric, waters, the 24-acre natural park is also home to the famous Jacuzzi-loving snow monkeys. Lake Toya said to be 110,000 years old is also a must for nature lovers, with its lava domes and pyroclastic cones that make up the Nakajima islands at the center of the lake. So lovely is the lake that it is considered one of the 100 Most Beautiful Scenes of Japan. Unsurprisingly gastronomy is centered around fresh seafood, with sushi and sashimi being high on the list of offerings. However, meat eaters should not despair, as the town offers some fantastic Teppanyaki options, so make sure you visit hungry!

Your first call on the northern coast of Japan’s main island of Honshu is Aomori City. With the Hakkoda mountains in the distance, this bountiful countryside is famous for apple orchards, world-famous seafood, local treasures of Tsugaru lacquerware and painted kites. Explore the tranquil Seiryuji Temple with its impressive bronze statue of Dainichi Nyorai. Learn about Nebuta Matsuri, the summer festival with colorful papier-mâché floats, and see the amazing artistry up close.

Aomori's main event is its Nebuta Matsuri Festival,held August 2 to 7. People come to see illuminated floats of gigantic samurai figures paraded through the streets at night. Aomori's festival is one of Japan's largest, and is said to celebrate the euphoria of post-battle victory, and is thus encouraged to be noisier and livelier than you may have been exposed to in other Japanese festivals. Dancers, called heneto, run alongside the floats, dancing crazily, and you're encouraged to join in. Throughout the year you can enjoy delicious seafood from Aomori Bay, including Oma no Maguro (tuna of Oma), as well as delicious fruits and vegetables (particularly garlic). And come every summer, the town cuts loose to throw the decidedly wild Nebuta Matsuri festival, a frenzied, utterly unaccountable period when normal gets thrown to the wind.

Nestled between mountains and sea, Sendai’s lush greenery earned it the nickname of “Forest City.” As you tour this beautiful city, wind your way to the hills above town to the site of Sendai Castle. Built in 1600 by the powerful feudal lord, Date Masamune, the castle has survived anti-feudal warfare, bombings of World War II and the powerful earthquake of 2011. Continue on to Zuihoden, the mausoleum of the Date clan, whose spectacular grounds and intricate design pay tribute to the powerful Masamune and his descendants. Just outside of the city, explore the secluded bay on the shores of Matsushima. Known as one of Japan’s three most scenic views, this gorgeous bay is dotted with pine-clad islets.

Sendai has got it just right. Urban and big enough to be interesting, full of cultural monuments, shopping experiences, unique foods, and festivals whilst cultivating a friendly, relaxed vibe.

To appreciate the city in all its beauty, visit the AER Observation deck, situated 31 floors up of the AER building. During the day, look out beyond the high and low-rise mismatched buildings, to see a skyline of the mountains on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other. After sunset there's a fabulous view of the city lights to admire.

Date Masamune who founded the city over 400 years ago was a legendary Japanese warrior known as "One-eyed Dragon". Many of the beautiful historical sites around the city are connected to him. The noble statue at Sendai Castle, the Osaki Hachimangu Shrine he commissioned, and his final resting place the Zuihoden Mausoleum. Visiting these sites will allow you to understand the city in its rich, historical context.

Also known as the "City of Trees", the city celebrates the seasons with fantastic displays of cherry blossom in the spring and spectacular golden hues in the autumn. However, in August, during the largest Tanabata Festival in Japan, thousands of long, colorful streamers, made by schools and community groups, hanging in the streets and shops turn the city into a festive, colored forest.

Take away a little bit of Sendai, lacquerware, Kokeshi dolls, exquisite handmade Yanagiu Washi paper, or specialty foods, are all wonderful souvenirs of this vibrant, authentic city.

Today long stretches of white-sand beaches welcome you to the seaside city of Oarai. Heading inland, visit Mito, a power base during the Edo period and best known today for Kairakuen Garden, considered one of Japan’s three finest landscape gardens. Originally created in 1841 for the ruling lord, the park was also intended for the enjoyment of all. Paths wind through 3,000 plum trees, cedar woods and a bamboo grove. Learn about the treasures of the samurai that went beyond swords and armor. The Tokugawa Museum houses exhibits which chronicle the life of the powerful Tokugawa family, as well as those who lived under their rule.

Located along Japan’s Pacific coastline, Oarai is a charming seaside town known for its beaches, fresh seafood, and traditional atmosphere. The town is famous for the scenic Oarai Isosaki Shrine, which overlooks the ocean and features a striking torii gate standing among the coastal rocks. Visitors can enjoy local seafood markets, aquarium attractions, and relaxing coastal views while experiencing the peaceful charm of this Japanese destination.

Mito is the capital city of Ibaraki Prefecture, located in the Kanto region of Japan. It is known for its historical significance as the seat of the Tokugawa Mitsukuni, a prominent feudal lord. The city is famous for Kairakuen Garden, one of Japan’s three great gardens, especially beautiful during plum blossom season. Mito also has museums, cultural sites, and a calm urban atmosphere surrounded by nature. Today, it serves as an administrative and cultural center with a blend of history and modern city life.

Be on deck as the ship sails into Shimizu to get your closest view of Mt Fuji yet (weather permitting). Get your morning steps in as you climb the zigzag pathway of 1,200 steps to Kunozan Toshogu Shrine, enjoying beautiful views of the coastline as you go. For those feeling a little less inclined to embark on the stairs, you can take the ropeway to the top. This complex houses many bright-red buildings, accented in gold and adorned with colorful carvings—a dazzling vision. You may also choose to visit the Ukiyoe Museum, which houses a lovely collection of Edo-period works.

The salt and pepper cone of Japan's most famous natural landmark won’t fail to take your breath away, as it soars into the sky in a vision of spectacular symmetry. Make sure your camera is fully prepared before you dock in Shimizu’s port, where unparalleled views of the extraordinary Mount Fuji’s dramatic peak await. Take your time to soak up one of Japan's most iconic views, before dipping your toes into the rest of what this destination of tranquil temples has to offer. While there’s a bustling fish market, and a charming amusement park waiting close to the port, most new arrivals immediately set off in pursuit of the best views of Mount Fuji, or to see the stunning panorama on offer from the heights of the Kunozan Toshogu Shrine. Take the cable car up to the top, to experience the tranquillity around the forested shrine, and to enjoy its stunning architecture of deep scarlets and gleaming golds. You can also enjoy heart-stopping views out over the Bay of Suruga, and the tea plantations below.

Disembark in Osaka, the largest commercial center on the island of Honshu. Depart for the airport to connect to your flight home.

From Minami's neon-lighted Dotombori and historic Tenno-ji to the high-rise class and underground shopping labyrinths of Kita, Osaka is a city that pulses with its own unique rhythm. Though Osaka has no shortage of tourist sites, it is the city itself that is the greatest attraction. Home to some of Japan's best food, most unique fashions, and warmest locals, Osaka does not beg to be explored—it demands it. More than anywhere else in Japan, it rewards the impulsive turn down an interesting side street or the chat with a random stranger. People do not come here to see the city, they come to experience it.Excluded from the formal circles of power and aristocratic culture in 16th-century Edo (Tokyo), Osaka took advantage of its position as Japan's trading center, developing its own art forms such as Bunraku puppet theater and Rakugo comic storytelling. It was in Osaka that feudal Japan's famed Floating World—the dining, theater, and pleasure district—was at its strongest and most inventive. Wealthy merchants and common laborers alike squandered fortunes on culinary delights, turning Osaka into "Japan's Kitchen," a moniker the city still has today. Though the city suffered a blow when the Meiji government canceled all of the samurai class's outstanding debts to the merchants, it was quick to recover. At the turn of the 20th century, it had become Japan's largest and most prosperous city, a center of commerce and manufacturing.Today Osaka remains Japan's iconoclastic metropolis, refusing to fit Tokyo's norms and expectations. Unlike the hordes of Tokyo, Osakans are fiercely independent. As a contrast to the neon and concrete surroundings, the people of Osaka are known as Japan's friendliest and most outgoing. Ask someone on the street for directions in Tokyo and you are lucky to get so much as a glance. Ask someone in Osaka and you get a conversation.The main areas of the city, Kita (north) and Minami (south), are divided by two rivers: the Dojima-gawa and the Tosabori-gawa. Between Kita and Minami is Naka-no-shima, an island and the municipal center of Osaka. Kita (north of Chuo Dori) is Osaka's economic hub and contains Osaka's largest stations: JR Osaka and Hankyu Umeda. The area is crammed with shops, department stores, and restaurants. Nearby are a nightlife district, Kita-shinchi; Naka-no-shima and the Museum of Oriental Ceramics; Osaka-jo (Osaka Castle); and Osaka Koen (Osaka Park). Restaurants, bars, department stores, and boutiques attract Osaka's youth to Minami (south Chuo Dori); theatergoers head to the National Bunraku Theatre and electronics-lovers to Den Den Town. For a glimpse of old Osaka, visit Tenno-ji Temple and Shin Sekai. The main stations are Namba, Shin-sai-bashi, Namba Nankai, and Tenno-ji. There's easy access to the Municipal Museum of Fine Art and Sumiyoshi Taisha (Sumiyoshi Grand Shrine).The bay area, to the west of the city center, is home to the Osaka Aquarium and Universal Studios Japan. The Shinkansen stops at Shin-Osaka, three stops (about five minutes) north of Osaka Station on the Mido-suji subway line. To the north of Shin-Osaka is Senri Expo Park.