Rick's Exotic Southern Japan
Come with us for an immersive taste of Asia on this spectacular trip to Japan. It includes an overnight stay in Kobe, and a stop at Japan's tropical island of Okinawa. Another highlight will be a visit to Jeju Island, considered the Hawaii of South Korea.
There aren't many places on Earth that blend ancient tradition and the ultra modern quite like Tokyo. Centuries-old gardens and cobblestone laneways live in perfect harmony with soaring skyscrapers and dazzling neon lights. Get immersed in an unrivalled dining scene, fashionable boutiques, and endless cultural encounters in this ever-evolving city. Tonight, meet your fellow passengers on board.
The ship departs at 7PM
On clear days, particularly in winter, Mount Fuji (Fuji-san in Japanese) is visible from as far as Tokyo, 60 miles away. When Japan's highest mountain is capped with snow, it's a picture-postcard perfect volcanic cone. One of the best-known symbols of Japan, this iconic mountain has been considered sacred since ancient times and was even forbidden to women until the early 1900s.
Docked in Shimizu from 7AM to 3PM.
Visit Osaka Aquarium, one of the world’s largest aquariums which has over 580 species of sea life on display, or Universal Studios Japan, the company’s first theme park outside of the U.S. Kyoto served as the nation’s capital for more than 1000 years and is home to 17 different World Heritage Sites including Kiyomizudera Temple and Heian Jingu Shrine.
Visit Osaka Aquarium, one of the world’s largest aquariums which has over 580 species of sea life on display, or Universal Studios Japan, the company’s first theme park outside of the U.S. Kyoto served as the nation’s capital for more than 1000 years and is home to 17 different World Heritage Sites including Kiyomizudera Temple and Heian Jingu Shrine.
The capital of Kochi Prefecture on the southern coast of Shikoku is small, friendly, and boasts several attractions of interest to travelers. Make sure to enjoy some Katsuo no tataki, Kochi's most famous dish, and visit the temple and botanical garden at Mount Godaisan.
Docked 7AM to 6PM
While at sea, take the time to recharge before the next adventure. Lounge by the pool, be spoiled at the spa, taste the delicacies or explore the venues on-board, until we arrive at the next amazing destination.
This ancient kingdom boasts crystal blue waters, tropical plants, and many fascinating creatures. Browse the shops on Kokusai Street and see Shuri Castle with its Tombs of Kings of Ryukyu. Then, watch for the rare Yambaru-kuina bird in Yambaru and explore the beautiful limestone of Gyokusen-do Cave.
Docked from 7AM to 5PM.
Often called the most beautiful place in Japan, part of Okinawa Prefecture, Ishigaki Island is where many Tokyoites come to escape the big city. They seek the warm weather, great food, and friendly people. Some stay and adopt the slower pace of life here and maybe open a small café. History buffs visit Yaeyama Museum, near the port, to see local human remains dating back 24,000 years. They also trek to Tōrin-ji, a 1614 Buddhist temple that survived the 1771 tsunami to become Okinawa’s oldest wooden building. Get out of town to experience the unspoiled beaches, dazzling waters, coral reefs, palm forests, pineapple plantations, and subtropical vistas that ring the island.
Docked 8AM to 4PM.
Another relaxing but fun day at the sea to do whatever you like.
South Korea's tropical island paradise will enchant you with its sandy beaches, swaying palm trees and amazing volcanic landscape. Need a break from your beach towel? Waterfalls, museums, folk villages, scuba diving, hiking and festivals galore will keep you busy. Explore the colorful coral and sea life with a scuba dive off the coast of laid-back Seogwipo. Take an underground stroll through the world’s longest lava-tube cave at Manjanggul.
Docked 8AM to 4PM.
Kagoshima is the southernmost city on Japan's bullet train network and the capital of Kagoshima Prefecture. The city is often compared with its Italian sister city, Naples, due to a similarly mild climate, streets lined with palm trees, and Sakurajima, Kagoshima's version of Vesuvius. Near port, find the fascinating Kagoshima aquarium, traditional Senganen Japanese gardens, museums, the Shiroyama mountain-top park with a view over the city, and Yakushima Island, a registered world heritage site. Plus, an abundance of hot springs, mud baths, and spas to promote serenity and relaxation.
Docked 10AM to 6PM.
Another day to relax on the Pacific.
We return to Tokyo at 6:30AM, the end of our cruise. A post-cruise stay will be arranged for those wanting to get the most from their trip.
The Celebrity Millenium has a tonnage of 90,940, and carries 2,218 passengers. As the first ship to undergo the Celebrity Revolution modernization program, Celebrity Millennium was refurbished in February 2019 receiving a bow-to-stern upgrades. The transformation included new boutiques, redesigned staterooms, updated restaurants, and an enhanced spa area with exciting new features, such as a Turkish bath, salt therapy area, and an infrared sauna. The ship also received new suite-class amenities, including The Retreat Sundeck and The Retreat Lounge. To enhance connectivity, Millennium added advanced pervasive Xcelerate Wi-Fi throughout the vessel.
Rates are per person double occupancy, plus taxes of $127.97 per person.
TO MAKE YOUR RESERVATION: Please send a Facebook message or text to Rick Scadlock at 425-501-4206 with your requested category and we'll take care of the rest (alternatively you can send an email to rick@rickscruises.com with your request). Deposits are $450 per person ($900 per cabin) and due within 7 days of making your reservation. Final payments are due no later than December 4th, 2022. Deposits are fully refundable until the final payment deadline.
