Japan and Russia Explorer

Day 1 London - In flight Titan’s VIP door-to-door travel service collects you from home, for your journey to London Heathrow Airport and a direct, scheduled British Airways flight to Tokyo. Day 2 Tokyo On arrival we transfer to Keio Plaza Hotel (4T), for a two-night stay. The hotel is located in Shinjuku, in the very heart of the Tokyo metropolis and this evening, we enjoy an included group dinner. Day 3 Tokyo We embrace this dazzling city with a full-day tour, taking in legendary landmarks - the five-storey Asakusa Kannon Temple, the Ginza (Silver Mint) district and the moated Imperial Palace. Then we enjoy a sushi-making experience for lunch, followed by a boat cruise from Asakusa to Hamarikyu Gardens. Day 4 Tokyo - Yokohama A leisurely start to the day to further explore Tokyo before we transfer to Yokohama to embark MS Westerdam (4T) this afternoon, with plenty of time to settle into your cabin before dinner this evening. Day 5 Shimizu Mount Fuji, visible from Shimizu port on a clear day, is just part of the mountainous scene that surrounds the city, as well as the tea plantations that account for 40% of Japan’s tea production. Day 6 Osaka Succulent Kobe beef, sukiyaki and sushi all tantalise in this boisterous, earthy city. Perhaps visit Osaka Castle and Shitenno-ji Temple. Built in 593 the temple is believed to be the oldest of its kind in Japan. The temple houses six national treasures and many other items of cultural importance. Day 7 Kochi Surrounded by mountains and dotted with hot springs, Kochi is rich in natural wonders, and continues to practice long traditions including Tosa washi, traditional handmade Japanese paper, and old sake breweries. It is also the birthplace of revolutionary Sakamoto Ryoma, who played an instrumental part in the modernisation of Japan. Day 8 Scenic Cruising Kanmon Strait - Fukuoka We cruise along the scenic Kanmon Strait, before our midday arrival in Fukuoka - a growing city with a 2,000-year trading history, its ruined castle is a symbol of its feudal past. It is a city of large mirrored towers and old shrines decorated with mythical creatures, and a gateway to other intriguing destinations such as Kokura, a castle town accessible by bullet train. Day 9 At sea Day 10 Kanazawa A full day in the historic castle city of Kanazawa - where samurai, merchants, geisha and lords have all left their mark - allows us to explore one of the best-preserved major Edo-period cities in the country. Along with beautifully-preserved traditional houses, there are many beautiful temples, interesting museums, the Nagamachi samurai district, or exquisite gardens including the Kenroku-en Garden. This spacious garden is spread out over almost 12 hectares and has been named one of the top gardens in Japan with its peaceful atmosphere, tea houses and perfectly-landscaped grounds. Day 11 At sea Day 12 Vladivostok, Russia The striking Russian city of Vladivostok lies on the Pacific coast overlooking Golden Horn Bay. It is well known as the beginning or end of a Trans-Siberian Railway journey and its close proximity to China and Japan ensures an eclectic mix of cuisine and culture - and there are many places to choose from. Wander along the waterfront for great views of the ocean, port and the mountains behind you, or head up to Svetlanskaya and Ploschad Bortsov Revolutsy and simply watch the locals. Day 13 At sea Day 14 Otaru Located on the Sea of Japan just north of Sapporo, Otaru is one of Japan's most picturesque cities. Stroll along the historic Otaru Canal built in 1914; visit Herring Mansion, the lavish home built in 1922 for a wealthy herring fisheries owner; and explore Sapporo's Nijo Ichiba Market for a glimpse of the local lifestyle and enthusiastic trade negotiations. Day 15 Hakodate This morning we arrive in Hakodate for a full day to explore, overlooked by Mount Hakodate. Hokkaido’s third largest city was one of the first Japanese harbour cities to receive international trade under the Kanagawa Treaty of 1854. This is illustrated by the intriguingly-shaped Fort Goryokaku and the Motomachi district, which features many examples of Western architecture and churches. Day 16 Aomori Aomori, located in the far north of Japan and on the northernmost tip of Honshu, is one of the country’s most beautiful and pleasant cities. Following a fire in 1910 and destructive bombing during World War II, the rebuilding of the city has since included a collection of modern architectural gems including the Bay Bridge and the Museum of Art, which exhibits a fine collection of contemporary art. A highlight is the Wa Rasse Centre, dedicated to preserving and showcasing the Aomori Nebuta Festival, which takes place annually in early August. The museum displays five of the huge nebuta (a float bearing paper and bamboo depictions of warrior figures and lit from within) from the previous year's festival, along with festival sounds, photographs and introductions to some of the famous artists who have painted the warrior figures on the nebuta floats over the years. Day 17 At sea Day 18 Yokohama - Tokyo - London We disembark in Yokohama this morning and transfer to Tokyo’s Narita Airport for a direct, scheduled British Airways flight to London Heathrow Airport. On arrival you will be met and guided to your Titan vehicle for the journey home.