Kyoto and Nara Cruisetour #1

This itinerary starts BEFORE the accompanying cruise itinerary.

From Osaka airport transfer to Kyoto, and check into your deluxe hotel.

Explore the city known as Nihon no Furasato - The Heart of Japan. Kyoto, a living museum of the country's artistic and cultural heritage, had been Japans capital for more than 11 centuries. Visit Kiyomizu Temple, dedicated to the 11 faced Buddhist deity, Kannon. Built on stilts, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers outstanding views of the city and access to the Ottawa no taki (Sound of Feathers) waterfall. Breakfast and lunch included.

Delight in transcendent temples and pavilions, including the Ryoanji (Peaceful Dragon) Temple, which is renowned for its Zen Garden. Named for the gold leaf on lacquer that covers its floors, the Kinkakuji (Golden) Pavillion houses sacred relics of Buddha. The shogun's samurai could secretly observe visitors from hidden rooms in Nijo Castle, with its thick outer walls, moat, and corridors constructed with nightingale floors that squeak to warn of anyone approaching. Breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Nara is home to the enormous bronze Buddha, the Daibutsu, at Tadaiji Temple. The seated giant weighs 550 tons and incorporates 290 pounds of gold. Horyuji Temple, founded in 607, is the oldest intact temple complex in Japan, and houses the world's oldest wooden buildings, as well as a vast collection of Buddhist art. Continue to Kobe and check in to your deluxe hotel. Breakfast and lunch included.

Enjoy the morning at leisure to explore historic attractions of this port city, one of the first to begin accepting foreign traders following Japan's two and a half centuries of isolation. Visit Himeji (White Egret) Castle, Japan's most beautiful stronghold. Board your ship and set sail in the early evening. breakfast and dinner included.