Shrine & Castle Trace – Busan, Hiroshima & Kochi
About this cruise
No complicated itinerary, no back-to-back transfers, just the ports, the ship, and the sea in between. This 10-night sailing from Tokyo on September 4, 2027 visits Toba-Mie, Wakayama and Aburatsu-Nichinan, with additional stops along the Japan, Korea, China & Taiwan. A few ports come in quick succession, which is great for sightseeing but means you'll appreciate the sea days when they arrive. Bullet trains visible from the harbour, cherry blossoms, and thousands of years of history. East Asia is a lot to take in. Keep an eye out for Wakayama: Japan's coastal gateway to sacred Kumano. Around 9 hours per port on average, which is generous enough to go beyond the obvious. Sapphire Princess takes the food seriously, with 14 restaurants to choose from. 7 are included, and the rest are worth the splurge. The longer time on board means you'll catch several shows, themed nights, and start feeling like a regular at your favourite bar. This length suits most people. Enough time to settle in and actually unwind, without the trip dragging on. The autumn timing is underrated too. Good weather, calmer seas, and a more relaxed ship. That's 10 nights well spent.