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Northern Japan Revealed: Aomori & Akita with Explora Journeys, 2 October 2027

Where Japan hides its north
Venture to Japan's far northern shores after three nights in Tokyo, where Explora III sails to Hakodate's glittering harbour, Akita's hot springs, and Aomori's Hirosaki Castle.

Cruise overview
Where Hokkaido’s romance meets Japan’s raw, untouched edge.
Few places in Japan feel as quietly revelatory as its northern reaches. This fifteen-night journey moves through a part of the country that most travellers never reach, beginning with days in Tokyo before EXPLORA III traces the coastline north to Hakodate, where the city spreads across a narrow peninsula and glows famously at dusk, and on to Aomori, home to the luminous Nebuta lantern floats that seem almost too beautiful to be real. Akita follows with its castle ruins and park side stillness, a place shaped more by seasonal rhythm than tourist expectation. The route then turns toward Kanazawa, one of Japan’s most quietly confident cities, before a call at Busan adds a contrasting burst of Korean character. This is a journey that rewards the curious, one where the less visited ports tend to leave the deepest impressions.
Itinerary
Fly to Tokyo
Your flight departs London today, bound for Tokyo. Settle in and rest where you can. The journey ahead marks the beginning of something truly special.

Tokyo, Japan
Embark at Tokyo
At sea
Hakodate, Japan
Aomori, Japan
Akita, Japan
Kanazawa, Japan
At sea
Busan, South Korea
At sea
Nagoya, Japan
Disembark at Tokyo
Arrive home
What's Included
This exclusive cruise and stay experience includes:
- Return flights from London (alternative airports available on request)
- Private overseas transfers
- 3-night pre-cruise stay at 5-star hotel in Tokyo with breakfast (excluding local taxes payable at the property)
- 10-night all-inclusive Japan cruise aboard EXPLORA III
- Nine culinary experiences
- Unlimited fine beverages and in-suite welcome bottle of champagne and refreshments
- Thermal spa access
- Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi
- All onboard gratuities
- Cruise taxes, fees and port expenses
- Make your Japan journey unforgettable with a Mount Fuji & Hakone private tour and bullet train experience for just £220 per person
Ocean Terrace Suite
The Ocean Grand Terrace Suite captures the spirit of modern ocean living. With generous space, a contemporary design aesthetic and an extended private terrace, it offers the ideal balance of indoor comfort and outdoor freedom for guests who appreciate refined relaxation.
Amenities
- Double or Twin Configuration
- King or Twin Configuration
- Lounge Area
- Vanity Area
- Shower
- Bath
- TV
- Safe
- Hair Dryer
- Telephone
- Desk
- Toiletries Provided
- Room Service Available
- Suite Benefits
- Free Mini Bar
- Coffee Machine
- Pillow Menu Available
Ship features
Explora III builds on the success of her sister ships with a series of thoughtful refinements inspired by guest feedback. From enhanced public spaces to new venues, every addition has been designed to elevate the onboard experience.
- Third ship in the Explora Journeys fleet
- All-suite, all-balcony ship for 922 guests
- All-inclusive luxury with drinks, Wi-Fi and gratuities
- Five swimming pools, including infinity and indoor designs
- Nine world-class dining experiences
- Elegant Ocean Residences with private whirlpools
- Expansive spa and fitness centre
- Immersive destination-led enrichment programme
- Ten sophisticated lounges and bars
- Sustainably designed with cutting-edge energy systems

















