Japan by the sea with the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

Set sail on a scenic celebration of Japan. From the culinary delights of Osaka to the serene beauty of Kyoto, this magical odyssey offers a unique perspective on the Land of the Rising Sun.

With one foot in tradition and the other in the future, endlessly enigmatic Japan is one of the world’s most sought-after destinations. Experience the country’s enchanting landscapes and charismatic culture on an unforgettable voyage aboard Luminara, the newest addition to The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection.

From culinary-rich Osaka to historic Hiroshima, charming Nagasaki and elegant Kyoto, this exciting itinerary showcases a rare view of Japan as you sail through pristine waters, soak in therapeutic hot springs and indulge in the best of its storied cuisine. Each destination offers a new view into the country’s kaleidoscopic appeal.

Kyoto: ancient wonders, modern elegance

The City of Ten Thousand Shrines enthrals with ancient wonders and contemporary sophistication. Built in 794 AD, Kyoto was Japan’s imperial capital until the mid-19th century and today is a treasure trove of cultural landmarks and serene gardens, including 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites. Among its many highlights are the shimmering Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), a gold-leaf-covered Zen temple, and the Philosopher’s Path, a mile-long stone trail along a scenic canal dotted with temples, rock gardens and cherry trees.

Osaka: Culinary delights and neon nights

Osaka’s standout pleasures are many. Chief among them are gastronomic — this is the street food capital of Japan, after all, where mouth-watering ramen and curries lurk around every corner, and an array of Michelin-starred restaurants boast soaring flavours and thrilling innovation. Wander through Dōtonbori, a neon-lit paradise where you can sample local delicacies such as takoyaki and okonomiyaki or stumble into any number of quirky cafes.

Explore historic Osaka Castle, an iconic symbol of the city’s resilience, or recharge in the abundant wilderness of Minoh Park, one of Japan’s favourite spots for forest bathing, where waterfalls, temples and hot springs await. In the fall, you’ll find spectacular foliage and the unique treat of maple leaf (Momiji) tempura, an edible souvenir you won’t soon forget.

Osaka is the culinary capital of Japan, running the gamut of dishes from the Michelin-starred to street food treasures.

Hiroshima: a journey of peace and resilience

Some 200 miles west of Osaka but with its own utterly unique spirit is Hiroshima, a city synonymous with peace and resilience. Few places on earth are as deeply moving as Peace Memorial Park, a spacious, walkable area in the heart of downtown where the haunting Genbaku Dome (the only structure left standing after the 1945 atomic bombing of the city) and the Peace Memorial Museum stand as poignant reminders of the city’s past.

Also downtown is the serene Shukkeien Garden, meticulously designed in a resplendent lake setting, and the Hiroshima Prefectural Art Museum, with a collection of 5,000 works from artists and craftspeople from Hiroshima and beyond. Be sure to indulge in Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, cabbage pancakes layered with pork belly and noodles, before you depart.

Nagasaki: a tapestry of experiences

Nagasaki’s allure unfolds from the moment you dock in its picturesque harbor. This vibrant port city, a compelling tapestry of international influences, gives a unique perspective on Japanese history. Stroll through Glover Garden, an open-air museum housing Western-style mansions that illuminate Nagasaki’s multicultural influences, and the serene grounds of Sofukuji Temple.

Featured voyages

Hong Kong to Tokyo
Visit six ports across 12 nights.

Departs: Sunday, 8 March 2026
Fares from: $ 17,700 USD (approx. $28,302 AUD)

Tokyo to Tokyo
Visit seven ports across 10 nights.

Departs: Friday, 20 March 2026
Fares from: $14,700 USD (approx. $23,505 AUD)