Save $500* per person!

Immersive Japan by Rail Discovery & East Asia Voyage

   
Destination:
Multiple Cities, Multiple
Duration:
29 Nights
Offer ends:
31 July 2025
Valid for travel:
1 February 2026

Details

Savour an epic journey through Japan, South Korea and China, blending cultural immersion with breathtaking landscapes and sophisticated cruising.

Japan offers a window into a world of amazing contrasts. During your 13-night discovery, you’ll delve into fascinating cities, serene temples, pristine gardens, and ancient traditions. You’ll also soak in the natural beauty and essence of Japan with a variety of exciting rail journeys. From high-speed bullet trains to scenic trains meandering past forested ravines, rivers, and majestic mountains. Highlights include serene Osaka, Kyoto offering a glimpse into authentic Japan, a tour of Mount Fuji, and an unforgettable journey onboard the Southern Alps Abt Scenic Steam Train.

Your immersive experience is complemented by an itinerary-intense cruise on board Westerdam. Settle into comfortable and sophisticated surroundings as you discover a plethora of enthralling destinations across Japan, South Korea, and China.

Inside – Twin Share
EX Sydney $9,499* per person based on twin share
EX Adelaide $10,099* per person based on twin share
EX Perth $9,499* per person based on twin share
EX Melbourne $9,499* per person based on twin share
EX Brisbane $9,499* per person based on twin share

Ocean View – Twin Share
EX Sydney $10,499* per person based on twin share
EX Adelaide $11,099* per person based on twin share
EX Perth $10,499* per person based on twin share
EX Melbourne $10,499* per person based on twin share
EX Brisbane $10,499* per person based on twin share

Verandah – Twin Share
EX Sydney $11,499* per person based on twin share
EX Adelaide $12,099* per person based on twin share
EX Perth $11,499* per person based on twin share
EX Melbourne $11,499* per person based on twin share
EX Brisbane $11,499* per person based on twin share

Signature Suite – Twin Share
EX Sydney $12,499* per person based on twin share
EX Adelaide $13,099* per person based on twin share
EX Perth $12,499* per person based on twin share
EX Melbourne $12,499* per person based on twin share
EX Brisbane $12,499* per person based on twin share

Places visited:

  • Osaka
  • Hiroshima
  • Kyoto
  • Kanazawa
  • Shirakawa-go
  • Takayama
  • Shizuoka
  • Tokyo
  • Shimizu
  • Osaka
  • Kochi
  • Hiroshima
  • Kanmon Strait: Scenic Cruising
  • Fukuoka
  • Nagasaki
  • Busan
  • Shanghai
  • Hong Kong

In partnership with:

Inclusions

  • 14 night full-board cruise on board Westerdam with overnight in port in Shanghai
  • 2 night ★★★★ stay in Osaka at the Osaka Excel Hotel Tokyu, including breakfast
  • 2 night ★★★★ stay in Hiroshima at the RIHGA Royal Hotel Hiroshima, including breakfast
  • 3 night ★★★★ stay in Kyoto at THE HOTEL HIGASHIYAMA by Kyoto Tokyu Hotel, including breakfast
  • 1 night ★★★★ stay in Kanazawa at the Kanazawa Tokyu Hotel, including breakfast
  • 1 night ★★★★ hotel stay in Takayama at the Mercure Hida Takayama, including breakfast
  • 2 night ★★★★ stay in Shizuoka at the Hotel Associa Shizuoka, including breakfast
  • 2 night ★★★★ hotel stay in Tokyo at the Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba, including breakfast
  • Bullet Train from Osaka to Hiroshima to Kyoto
  • Sagano Romantic Train Journey
  • Kyoto to Kanazawa Thunderbird Train
  • Southern Alps Abt Scenic Steam Train
  • Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, Miyajima Island half-day tour & Fushimi Inari Shrine and Tea Ceremony
  • Gion evening walking tour & Kyoto full-day tour including Nijo Castle and Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
  • Shirakawa Village visit & Takayama Half-Day Walking tour
  • Lake Yamanaka, Mount Fuji 5th Station, and the Ichiku Kubota Museum
  • Tokyo tour including Ginza, Hamarikyu Gardens, Meiji Shrine, Harajuku, Asakusa Kannon Temple and Sumida River cruise

Itinerary

Day 1
Fly Overnight to Osaka
Your holiday begins with a flight to Osaka, to begin your epic Japan discovery. From tranquil temples and serene shrines to snow-cloaked mountains and enchanting ravines, bustling cities to charming villages, experience the treasures of this remarkable land.

Day 2
Osaka: Hotel Stay
Japan’s second largest city, Osaka is a commercial hub of modern architecture and ancient shrines. You could visit fascinating highlights such as the Osaka Aquarium or Sumiyoshi Taisha, one of Japan’s oldest shrines.

Day 3
Osaka: Hotel Stay
During a day at leisure, you could lose yourself amongst the towering giants of bamboo at Arashiyama, a nationally designated UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s an enchanting place of scenic beauty and a great place to find serenity.

Day 4
Osaka: Tour & Hiroshima Hotel Stay
Experience a tour of Osaka Castle, which reaches five stories high and dates back almost 450 years, before taking the afternoon bullet train to Hiroshima for a two-night hotel stay. Upon arrival, you’ll discover the city’s haunting past during a fully escorted tour.

Day 5
Hiroshima: Tour & Hotel Stay
Today you’ll enjoy a half-day tour discovering the beautiful Miyajima Island. You’ll reach this sacred island by ferry as you marvel at the delightful views of the red-gated Itsukushima Shrine.

Day 6
Kyoto: Tour & Hotel Stay
Taking the bullet train to Kyoto, you’ll then step on board your coach for a half-guided tour, complete with a traditional tea ceremony. Come evening you’ll discover the magical Gion district, now for being the city’s iconic Geisha area.

Day 7
Kyoto: Tour & Hotel Stay
Immerse yourself in the wonders of Kyoto during a fully escorted tour. You’ll visit captivating sights including Ryoanji Temple and Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and journey on board the Sagano Romantic Train to enjoy the natural beauty of the region.

Day 8
Kyoto: Hotel Stay
Kyoto has a reputation as the most beautiful city in Japan and is one of the most culturally rich cities in the world. Relax in one of the public baths or the city’s many cafés and restaurants.

Day 9
Kanazawa: Hotel Stay
Taking the Thunderbird train to Kanazawa, you’ll check in for a one-night hotel stay. Renowned for preserving its Edo-period heritage, the Higashi Chaya District is home to geisha teahouses and serene gardens.

Day 10
Shirakawa-go: Tour & Takayama Hotel Stay
Following breakfast at your hotel, you’ll join your coach for a visit to the picturesque Shirakawa-go village, a UNESCO World Heritage site, en route to Takayama for your next hotel stay.

Day 11
Takayama: Tour & Shizuoka Hotel Stay
Highlights of today’s Takayama walking tour include the Takayama Matsuri Yatai Kaikan, a museum devoted to the unique floats of the Takayama Festival and the historic Old Town, before you transfer to Shizuoka, where your adventure continues.

Day 12
Shizuoka: Tour & Hotel Stay
Step on board the Southern Japan Alps Train, a characterful steam train, for a journey through the gorges along the Oi River. This river has been an important water source for centuries, underpinning local agriculture and culture.

Day 13
Tokyo: Tour & Hotel Stay
Today, a fully escorted tour takes you to Mount Fuji. Marvel at the beauty of the prominent mountain surrounded by forests and white clouds. Visit Lake Kawaguchi and learn the mountain’s history at the Ichiku Kubota Museum.

Day 14
Tokyo: Tour & Hotel Stay
Delve into some of Tokyo’s most fascinating sights during a fully escorted coach tour. Highlights include the famous upmarket shopping district, Ginza, holy Meiji Jingu and a Sumida River cruise.

Day 15
Tokyo: Embark Ship
Today you’ll embark Holland America Line’s Westerdam. A ship that combines the elegance of traditional cruise sailing with state-of-the-art amenities, Westerdam promises the finest eateries, health and fitness facilities, and dazzling entertainment venues.

Day 16
Shimizu
Embrace the coastal allure of Shimizu, Japan. With its iconic Mount Fuji views, maritime charm, and historic sites, it’s a destination that invites you to immerse in Japanese culture and nature’s beauty.

Day 17
Osaka
Discover the vibrant energy of Osaka, Japan. From culinary delights to ancient temples, this city offers a captivating blend of tradition and innovation. Explore bustling street markets and serene gardens in this enchanting destination.

Day 18
Kochi
Kochi, Japan, is a captivating blend of ancient traditions and modern delights. Discover its serene temples, captivating festivals, and pristine nature. A must-visit destination for cultural enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Day 19
Hiroshima
Uncover Hiroshima’s resilient spirit. Immerse in vibrant streets, rich history, and a powerful message of peace. Explore monuments and museums that inspire hope, reminding us of humanity’s strength and the pursuit of peace.

Day 20
Kanmon Strait: Scenic Cruising
Glide through the breathtaking Kanmon Strait, where cliffs and historic sites frame the shimmering waters. Enjoy panoramic views of picturesque coastlines and bustling harbours before arriving in vibrant Fukuoka, offering a dynamic blend of tradition, modernity and culinary delights.

Day 21
Fukuoka
Experience the captivating blend of tradition and modernity in Fukuoka, Japan. With its rich history, vibrant cityscape, and warm hospitality, it’s a destination that ignites cultural exploration and connection.

Day 22
Nagasaki
Discover the captivating spirit of Nagasaki, a city that rose from the ashes with unwavering resilience. From its rich history to vibrant culture, it’s a testament to the triumph of the human spirit.

Day 23
Busan
Embark on a transformative journey from picturesque Burravoe to vibrant Busan. Discover a captivating blend of modernity and tradition, indulge in tantalising cuisine, immersing yourself in South Korea’s rich and dynamic culture. Unforgettable experiences await.

Day 24
Relax At Sea

Day 25
Shanghai: Overnight in Port
Immerse yourself in the dynamic pulse of Shanghai. With its futuristic skyline, rich history, and cultural diversity, it’s a city that encapsulates the spirit of modern China and invites you to explore its limitless possibilities.

Day 26
Shanghai
A centre of technology and transport, commerce and capital, fashion and finance; Shanghai offers endless discoveries. The Yuyuan Gardens are an island of serenity in the Old City, and the old buildings and boutiques of the Bund evoke the Shanghai of the 1920s.

Days 27 - 28
Relax At Sea

Days 29 - 30
Hong Kong: Disembark Ship & Fly Home
Your cruise ends in mystical Hong Kong where you’ll disembark and transfer to the airport for your flight home, taking a wealth of memories from an epic adventure with you.

Terms & Conditions

*Conditions apply. Prices correct as at 1 July 2025 but may fluctuate if surcharges, fees, taxes or currency change. Offers subject to availability. Agents may charge service fees, rates vary. Payments by credit card will incur a surcharge. Airfares are based on economy flights and include taxes, carriers terms and conditions apply. Offers may be withdrawn without notice and are not combinable with any other offers unless stated. Please check all prices, availability and other information before booking. Imagine Cruising and Helloworld Travel booking terms and conditions apply, see in store for details.

Terms and Conditions apply, for full details please visit imaginecruising.com.au. All prices shown in AUS Dollars. Prices are per person based on two adults sharing a Inside and include flights from Perth (regional flights available at a supplement). Credit cards charged at 1.5%, if paying by AMEX a charge of 2.5% will be added. ABN number 48614987718. Prices are correct at the time of print and are subject to change. Offer applies to new bookings only. Holiday duration includes overnight flights when applicable and is subject to change.
*Luggage transfer provided when travelling on Bullet Train to hotel.

From

$9,499* | per person twin share
Save $500* per person!
Destination:
Multiple Cities, Multiple
Duration:
29 Nights
Offer ends:
31 July 2025
Valid for travel:
1 February 2026