Japan Intensive Cruise: Osaka,
Takamatsu & Kagoshima

Osaka

Japan's third largest city, the industrial metropolis of Osaka
lies just 26 miles (42km) south of Kyoto. Osaka is an ancient city,
powerful in the days of the feudal lords and samurai. Now the city
is a commercial hub, focused on making money and having a good
time: it has a reputation in Japan as one of the best places to eat
and drink.

It is worthwhile visiting the city just to see the magnificent
Osaka Castle. Osaka's castle dates back to the 16th century, built
by the powerful lord Hideyoshi Toyotomi. It was rebuilt following
World War II, renovated in 1997, and is today a national
treasure.

The city has a number of other attractions, including museums
dedicated to science, wood-block printing, peace, and even ramen.
There are also a number of beautiful temples, and the famous
Bunraku Puppet Theatre. Other attractions in Osaka include an
impressive aquarium and Universal Studios Japan, a theme park
focusing on the American movie industry.

Osaka offers many of the same hardcore shopping opportunities
that Japan's other major metropolises do, with the most famous
shopping district, Shinsaibashi, offering a mixture of department
stores, fashionable boutiques, and Western stores. Nipponbashi is
the best place to go for electronics.

Osaka has a distinct cuisine, putting its unique stamp on
everything from sushi to
(street food). After dinner, head out for some
fun in one of the karaoke bars. The liveliest nightlife is found in
Dotombori.

Takamatsu

Takamatsu is a beautiful city located in the Kagawa Prefecture on the island of Shikoku, Japan. With its rich history, vibrant cultural scene, and stunning natural beauty, Takamatsu is a must-visit destination for travelers.

Takamatsu is most famous for its breathtaking gardens. The Ritsurin Garden, one of Japan's most beautiful gardens, is a designated Special Place of Scenic Beauty and offers visitors a tranquil oasis to explore. The garden boasts a variety of ponds, mountains, and carefully manicured trees, making it a picturesque location for a leisurely stroll or a traditional tea ceremony.

Another must-visit garden in Takamatsu is the Yuushien Garden. This garden is particularly renowned for its stunning peony flowers, which bloom in a variety of vibrant colors during springtime. The garden also features a traditional tea house, where visitors can enjoy a traditional Japanese tea ceremony in a serene setting.

In addition to its gardens, Takamatsu is home to several historical landmarks. One of the most significant is Takamatsu Castle, also known as Tamamo Castle. Although only a few of the original buildings remain, the castle offers panoramic views of the city and the Seto Inland Sea. Visitors can explore the castle grounds, view historical artifacts, and learn about the castle's history at the museum located within the premises.

Art enthusiasts will find plenty to appreciate in Takamatsu. The city is renowned for its contemporary art scene, which can be experienced at the Kagawa Prefectural Hall building that includes the Kagawa Museum and the Setouchi Triennale Museum. The Triennale is a prestigious contemporary art festival that takes place every three years and features installations and exhibits by both local and international artists.

Takamatsu also offers a unique culinary experience. Sanuki udon, a type of thick wheat noodle, is a local specialty. Numerous restaurants and street vendors throughout the city offer delicious variations of this dish, allowing visitors to savor the authentic flavors of Takamatsu. Other local delicacies include freshly caught seafood, especially eel and sea bream, as well as local vegetables and fruits unique to the region.

For those seeking outdoor adventure, Takamatsu does not disappoint. The nearby Seto Inland Sea provides ample opportunities for water sports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing. The Yashima Plateau, located just outside the city, offers hiking trails with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can also take a scenic cable car ride to the top of Mount Yashima for panoramic views of the city and the Seto Inland Sea.

Getting around Takamatsu is easy thanks to its efficient public transportation system. The city has a well-developed bus network, and a tram system, known as the Kotoden, which connects major tourist attractions and shopping areas. It is also possible to rent bicycles and explore the city at a leisurely pace.

In terms of accommodations, Takamatsu offers a range of options to suit different budgets and preferences. From luxury hotels and traditional Japanese ryokans to budget-friendly guesthouses and hostels, there is something for everyone. Many of these accommodations provide warm hospitality and comfortable amenities, ensuring a pleasant stay for visitors.

In conclusion, Takamatsu is a destination that offers a perfect blend of culture, history, natural beauty, and culinary delights. Whether you are a garden enthusiast, an art lover, an adventure seeker, or simply someone who wishes to immerse themselves in the charm of Japan, Takamatsu has something to offer. With its warm hospitality and easy accessibility, a trip to Takamatsu is sure to be a memorable experience.

Kochi

Kochi is a beautiful city located in southern Japan. The city is known for its stunning natural scenery, its friendly people, and its delicious food. Kochi is a perfect place to relax and enjoy the sights and sounds of Japan. Kochi is also a great place to shop for souvenirs and gifts. There are many shops and markets located throughout the city, so you can find something for everyone on your list. Kochi is a popular tourist destination, so there are plenty of hotels and resorts to choose from. Whether you want to stay in a traditional Japanese inn or a modern hotel, you can find the perfect accommodations for your needs.

Hiroshima

Hiroshima is the main city of the Chugoku Region on
Japan's main island Honshu. On 6 August 1945, it became the first
ever target of an atomic bomb. Early in the morning, three United
States B-29 bombers flew in from the northeast; one dropped its
bomb over the centre of the city, killing 140,000 civilians.

Today, millions of visitors make a pilgrimage to
Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Park to pay tribute to the victims, but
also to marvel at the lively modern city that has overcome its
tragedy to become the thriving home of more than a million people.
Not surprisingly, the city has become vehemently engaged in the
promotion of peace, and American visitors are welcomed with open
arms along with foreigners of all other nationalities.

Visitors are drawn mainly to the Peace Memorial Park
and its museum, but the rebuilt city is an attractive place to
visit in its own right, criss-crossed by rivers and wide avenues
and containing several good museums. Nearby are some of Japan's
most scenic excursion destinations, making Hiroshima a good base
for explorations into the countryside.

Beppu, Kyushu Island, Oita

The lantern-lit hot springs of Beppu is a town that’s prettier than a picture. The town is found in a particularly volcanically active part of Japan (hence the abundance of hot springs, or in Japanese, onsens).  As if the gorgeous palette of colours at the onsen was not enough, Beppu is also world famous for its Sakura, or cherry blossom season. More than 2,000 cherry trees near the base of the ropeway to Mount Tsurumi make for one of Beppu’s most impressive hanami (flower viewing) spots.

Miyazaki

Japan is an isolated archipelago off the coast of mainland China, Russia, and Korea, separated from its Asian neighbours by the Sea of Japan. Between 1639 and 1859, Japan elected to cut itself off from trade or traffic with the rest of the world, except for marginal contact through the southern Kyushu island ports.

Since reopening up its doors around 150 years ago, the densely populated islands have developed in leaps and bounds and much of the country is now covered by sprawling neon-lit cities and the world's most sophisticated public transport networks.

Modern it may be, but Japan still retains plenty of its mystical oriental charm. From the intricacies of etiquette demanded in social situations, to the minimalist décor behind rice paper screens, traditional Japanese culture is alive and well, making a visit to Japan a fascinating experience.

The modern metropolises are dotted with numerous ancient shrines and temples, while the countryside is riddled with hundreds of volcanoes and hot springs overlooking pastoral paddy fields. Parks are festooned with rigidly raked white gravel Zen gardens or coated with layers of lilac and cherry blossom.

Japan's islands are mountainous in the interior - 75 percent of the country's landmass is made up of mountains - and most of the people are tightly packed within the limitations of the coastal plains, particularly on the main island of Honshu. Tokyo, the capital and largest city, situated on Honshu's east coast, has a population of 12 million.

Despite this huge mass of humanity, Japan is well ordered. Everything runs on time, and crime levels are almost non-existent. It is still possible to find beautiful vistas and wide empty spaces in the countryside, and when you are forced to mingle with the urban throngs you will find the Japanese to be charming, courteous, and friendly to foreign faces.

Kagoshima

Kagoshima is a mesmerising city located on the south western tip of Japan's main island. It is a place of breathtaking beauty and boasts magnificent views over the bay and nearby volcano, Sakurajima. Anyone visiting Kagoshima cannot help but feel awe at the power of nature and its many forms.

Kagoshima itself is a city of great history, being the birthplace of the powerful Satsuma Domain which fought against the Tokugawa Shogunate. Exploring the old samurai neighbourhoods and traditional buildings of the city will be a treat for any visitor in search of a glimpse into a bygone era.

However, Kagoshima is also a modern city offering plenty to do for visitors looking for a more contemporary experience. Dining experiences range from traditional Japanese cuisine to fusion dishes created with local ingredients. Shopping is also abundant in the city, from small boutiques to larger department stores.

Those looking to explore the wonders of nature will also be spoilt for choice. The harbour is often described as one of Japan's most beautiful bays, and taking a boat tour around it is a must for anyone visiting the city. Views from the harbour might include the distinctive outline of Sakurajima, a dormant volcano on the horizon, or the stunning array of islands in Kagoshima Bay. Farther afield, those with an adventurous spirit can take trips to Kagoshima's active volcanoes, such as Mt. Kuju, where ash-covered trails provide an exciting day out.

Kagoshima is also an ideal base for anyone wanting to explore further south towards Kyushu's other cities, such as Kumamoto and Miyazaki. All these cities have their own unique charms and are well worth a visit if you have the time. Be sure to sample some regional delicacies too!

Visiting Kagoshima is a truly unique experience and one that you will never forget. It is a city steeped in history and culture, yet offering modern amenities that are sure to please everyone who visits. With its seemingly endless natural sights and attractions, Kagoshima is sure to keep you captivated throughout your stay. Come explore what it has to offer today!

Nagasaki

Nagasaki is a beautiful city located in southwestern Japan. The city is best known for its rich history and for being the site of the second nuclear bombing in history.

Nagasaki has a long and storied history. It was first settled by the Chinese in the 7th century and later became an important port for trade with both China and Korea. In the 16th century, Nagasaki was the only place in Japan where Europeans were allowed to trade, and it became an important base for the Portuguese and Dutch.

During World War II, Nagasaki was one of the largest shipbuilding centers in Japan. It was also the target of the second nuclear bombing in history. The bomb, which was dropped on August 9, 1945, killed an estimated 40,000 people. Nagasaki was rebuilt after the war and is now a thriving city with a population of over 1 million people.

Nagasaki is a must-visit for anyone interested in history or in seeing a city that has risen from the ashes of war. The city has a number of museums and memorials dedicated to its past, and its vibrant present makes it a great place to live or visit.

Fukuoka

Fukuoka, the largest city on the southern Japanese
island of Kyushu, was the home of the samurai and today is the
terminus of the famous Shinkansen Line bullet train from Tokyo, 730
miles (1,168km) away. Originally, the town of Hakata was the centre
of the region, acting as a gateway to Japan from the rest of Asia,
which lies just across a short strait.

The feudal town of Fukuoka, however, grew rapidly
just across the Nakagawa River, clustered around a castle. In the
late 19th century, the cities united under the combined name of
Fukuoka. The modern city is busy and bustling, with an
international flavour and plenty of innovative architectural
development.

The Tenjin underground shopping arcade brings the
wares of the world to Fukuoka, while a sandbank in the bay has been
turned into the largest entertainment district in western Japan,
with more than 2,000 eating and drinking establishments congregated
under the neon lights.

The Naka River promenade and riverfront park make for
pleasant strolls, while top class theatres, theme parks, and art
establishments abound. There are some sightseeing attractions in
the city itself, and the surrounding area in Kyushu Island has
plenty to offer within easy reach of the city.

Yeosu

As South Korea becomes increasingly popular as a tourist destination, Yeosu remains a hidden gem. Punctuated by cliffs, islands and peninsulas the Scenic shorelines are nothing short of spectacular. Host to the EXPO 2012 World Fair meant that Yeosu received generous government funding in order to develop its waterfront and the exhibition centre still stands.

Seoul

Seoul is a thriving metropolis encircled by mountains
with skyscrapers rising towards the heavens. The city is busting
yet organised, with modern marvels growing side by side with
centuries-old palaces and shrines.

A great deal of the credit for the well-ordered urban
planning of Seoul can be given to the ancient Joseon Dynasty, which
used great foresight when crafting the city into a capital way back
in the 14th century.

The old Joseon Dynasty city, with its central main
palace, is now the traditional downtown heart of Seoul where many
of the most popular sights, hotels, and markets are to be found.
One of the most interesting areas for visitors to explore is
Insa-dong, filled with antique shops, art galleries, traditional
teahouses, restaurants, and bookshops.

Across the Han River, the modern city is dominated by
Korea's World Trade Centre and the Coex Mall, a shopper's delight.
Even the island of Yeouido, in the middle of the Han River, is
densely packed with high-rise buildings; this is also the base for
the Korean National Assembly and the world's biggest Presbyterian
Church.

Interspersed through the urban landscape are several
lush, green parks, the most central being Namsan Park which
encompasses the mountain of the same name just to the south of
downtown Seoul. It's also home to the iconic Seoul Tower, which
offers spectacular 360 degree views of the city and surrounding
countryside.

Nightlife in Seoul has something to suit all tastes,
from pub hopping to sedate sit-downs at traditional teahouses.
Eating out is a feast for the senses in Seoul, with an enormous
international variety to choose from, whether it is succulent
steak, perfect pizza, multicourse gourmet, tasty tandoori, or, of
course, classic Korean.