Depart from the pier, and drive to Karatsu Castle which was built by the feudal lord, Hirotaka Terazawa, in 1608, and located on a small hill facing Karatsu Bay. After the Meiji Restoration of 1868 the castle was pulled down leaving only the stone walls and foundations as part of Maizuru Park, which opened in 1877. The present 5-story Karatsu Castle is a ferro-concrete structure built in the style of the original 17th century castle in 1966. The yagura (towers) were built at the same time with the Tatsumi yagura added later, in 1990. The tour will continue to Hikiyama Exhibition Hall that stores the 14 floats of the Karatasu Kunchi Festival which takes place annually from November 2 to 4. These decorated floats are hauled through the streets by participants in Edo Period garb to the accompaniment of drums and flutes. On the second day of the festival the floats, known as Hikiyama are taken to Nishinohama Beach, within a view of Karatsu Castle. Karatsu Kunchi Festival was registered as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritag e in 2016. Before heading back the port, you will be taken to Mount Kagami (Kagamiyama) to enjoy the panoramic view of Karatsu city. Mount Kagami is 931 feet high and you will be able to see the lovely view of Karatsu Bay, Niji no Matsubara (Pine tree forest) and Iki island if the weather is clear. Please note : This tour includes approximately 1.5 hours of walking or standing. There are 231 steps from the parking to the castle garden, but there is one elevator available. The path is mostly gravel. Wear comfortable walking shoes and clothing and bring local currency, sunscreen and a hat.

You will be taken to Mt. Kagami (Kagamiyama) to enjoy the panoramic view of Karatsu city. Mt. Kagami is 284 feet high and you will be able to see the view of Karatsu Bay, Niji no Matsubara (Pine tree forest) and Iki Island if the weather is clear. The tour will continue to Hikiyama Exhibition Hall. This hall stores the 14 floats of the Karatasu Kunchi Festival which takes place annually from November 2 to 4. Karatsu Kunchi Festival decorated floats are hauled through the streets by participants in Edo Period garb to the accompaniment of drums and flutes. On the second day of the festival the floats, known as Hikiyama are taken to Nishinohama Beach, within view of Karatsu castle. Karatsu Kunchi Festival was registered as U NESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2016. Next will be the former residence of Koreyoshi Takatori, a coal magnate. He had this luxurious seaside residence built with an incredible sense of detail. Wonderfully restored, it illustrates the lifestyle of the upper middle classes during the Meiji Period. The residence is divided into two parts, one for the family and the other for guests, and includes a Zen garden, tearoom, and Nô theatre. On the first floor, the view of the garden that blends so perfectly with the beach and the islands of Karatsu Bay in the background is quite stunning. Please note : Bring local currency, sunscreen, a hat, and wear comfortable walking shoes. Order of sites visited may vary. Guests are required to take off their shoes at the Takatori residence.

Karatsu is well known for Hikiyama floats and karatsu ceramic ware, and this tour will show you both highlights as well as the beautiful view of Karatsu Bay. You will be taken to Mount Kagami (Kagamiyama) to enjoy the panoramic view of Karatsu city. Mount Kagami is 931 feet high and you will be able to see the view of Karatsu Bay, Niji no Matsubara (Pine tree forest) and Iki Island if the weather is clear. The tour will continue to Hikiyama Exhibition Hall. This hall stores the 14 floats of the Karatasu Kunchi Festival which takes place annually from November 2 to 4. These decorated floats are hauled through the streets by participants in Edo Period garb to the accompaniment of drums and flutes. On the second day of the festival the floats, known as Hikiyama are taken to Nishinohama Beach, within view of Karatsu Ccastle . Karatsu Kunchi Festival was registered as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2016. The last stop will be made at one of the local pottery studios in Karatsu where you will be able to see how artisans make the potteries. You will also have some time to enjoy the beautiful gallery and purchase products if you wish. Please note : Wear comfortable walking shoes and clothing and bring local currency, sunscreen and a hat.

Depart from the pier, and drive to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park in central Hiroshima. The area where the park now lies was ground zero for the Atomic Bomb on August 6, 1945. After the bombing the Memorial Park was created and dedicated to those who lost their lives in the attack. Stroll through the park and discover many memorials, monuments and statues, before heading into the museum itself. The park's main attraction is the Peace Memorial Museum . Consisting of two buildings, the museum surveys the history of Hiroshima and the advent of the nuclear bomb. Its main focus though is on the events of August 6; the dropping of the bomb and its outcome in human suffering. After the visit to the museum, you will be driven back to the pier. Please note : Casual clothing and comfortable, flat walking shoes are recommended. This tour includes sensitive material including graphic pictures and displays on the atrocities of war.

Saijo-jo in Higashihiroshima is renowned as one of Japan’s leading “sake capitals.” The Saijo Sake Brewery Street is easily recognized by its iconic red brick chimney and the striking contrast of white plaster walls against traditional black namako-style tiles. Here, you can sample a variety of local sake flavors, each offering a unique taste of the region’s brewing heritage. For those who prefer non-alcoholic options, there are plenty of local specialties to enjoy. Souvenirs include the popular bean confectionery “Mamesan” sprinkled with Daiginjo sake lees, sake-kneaded udon, soap infused with Ginjo sake lees, Japanese sake jelly, and local sake cakes. After your sake adventure, you’ll visit the Orizuru Tower, a sleek Hiroshima landmark constructed in 2016. From its observation deck, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the city, including the A-Bomb Dome below. On clear days, you can even see the Miyajima World Heritage Site, located 22 kilometers (13.5 miles) away.

Begin with a visit to Miyajima. You will take a ferry to Miyajima Island, regarded as one of the three most beautiful places in Japan. Revered and worshipped since ancient times, Miyajima exhibits a gentle atmosphere and breathtaking beauty. See the magnificent red Torii Gate, a sacred gateway standing in the sea and guarding the Itukushima Shrine , dedicated to three goddesses and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site . Built over the water, both the shrine and its sentinel torii seem to float on the sea at high tide. Enjoy time to experience the shrine's main hall and several subsidiary shrines, all connected by bright red passageways. The 5-story pagoda can also be seen from the Itsukushima Shrine. After sightseeing at Itsukushima Shrine you will take a ferry back to Miyajima to enjoy a Japanese lunch at a local restaurant. Then you will head to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, designed and built after the war as a memorial to the people who died in the atomic bomb attack. See the impressive Atomic Bomb Dome , the only structure left standing in the area where the first atomic bomb exploded on August 6, 1945. Stroll past the Flame of Peace, lit in 1964 as 10,000 observers offered their silent prayers for peace, as well as many of the other monuments, statues, and fountains located on the Memorial Park grounds. You will then be transferred back to the port. Please note : This tour includes approximately 3 hours of walking with a limited number of steps to negotiate. Those guests with mobility concerns are cautioned to evaluate their personal level of ability and stamina. Casual clothing and comfortable, flat walking shoes are recommended. This tour includes sensitive material including graphic pictures and displays on the atrocities of war. Bring local currency for shopping. The order of sites visited may be changed

In the years just following the atomic bomb blast on August 6, 1945, scientists doubted if Hiroshima could ever live again. Yet modern Hiroshima rose like a phoenix from its own ashes, and less than 5 decades since its obliteration, it is a vital city with a population of one million and growing. This half-day tour highlights the remarkable landmarks of Hiroshima, a self-declared city of peace dedicated to a nuclear weapons-free world. Begin at the poignant Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and its powerful museum. Following the bomb attack, only a few concrete buildings remained standing. Though unusable, one of these ruins is now a symbol of the city and the Memorial Park: the Hiroshima Prefecture Industrial Promotion Hall, now known as the Atomic Bomb Dome , located near the epicenter of the blast. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, the Dome remains a stark and powerful symbol of the destructive force created by humankind. See the Cenotaph, shaped like an ancient tomb and holding the names of the dead, as well as the Flame of Peace, visited daily by monks offering prayers and burning incense. You will continue to the serene Shukkei-en Garden , located near the Hiroshima Castle. Plum trees, azaleas, cherry trees and other plants guarantee a blooming landscape, regardless of the season, and its sculpted gardens, paths, ponds, bridges, waterfalls and bamboo groves make the garden an extremely pleasant and photogenic place for a stroll. You will then be returned to your waiting yacht. Please not e: This tour includes approximately 2 hours of walking with a few steps to negotiate. Those guests with mobility concerns are cautioned to evaluate their personal level of ability and stamina. Casual clothing and comfortable, flat walking shoes are recommended. This tour includes sensitive material including graphic pictures and displays on the atrocities of war.

Travel by coach along a scenic route to Miyajima-Guchi , where you'll board the local ferry and cruise to the lovely island of Miyajima. This picturesque island, considered one of Japan's most scenic destinations, is where you'll find the Itsukushima Shrine and its famous large red torii gate that rises up out of the ocean. The shrine was established in 593, the first year of the reign of Empress Suiko and today is a UNESCO World Heritage Site . The current torii was erected in 1875 after the original one was destroyed. Among the distinctive features of the shrine is the corridor of the main building that, with its beautiful vermillion handrails, stretches into the calm Seto Inland Sea. At high tide, both the torii and the shrine give the illusion of floating on the sea. Interestingly, to give birth, to die or be buried were forbidden on the island and today, there are still no hospitals or cemeteries to be found here. Please note : This tour includes approximately 2 hours of walking with a limited number of steps to negotiate. Those guests with mobility concerns are cautioned to evaluate their personal level of ability and stamina. Casual clothing and comfortable, flat walking shoes are recommended. Bring local currency for shopping.

Takamatsu is located in Kagawa Prefecture on Shikoku, the smallest of the four main Japanese Islands, and this prefecture has been a popular destination for Udon noodles in Japan. It is said that Kobo Daishi Kukai, the founder of a religious sect, from this Sanuki region brought the recipe from China in 806, and this is the reason why Sanuki Udon has been developed in this area. Your day will start with a visit to Ritsurin Garden . This beautiful Japanese Garden was awarded three stars in the Michelin Green Guide Japan. The 185-acre park features 6 ponds, 13 hills, a waterfall, plum, cherry, and pine trees, a bamboo forest, a tea house, and more. This garden is recognized as one of the most beautiful gardens in Japan. Next you will head to Nakano Udon School where you can enjoy an Udon-Making Experience . Surely you will enjoy the opportunity to taste Udon noodles you just made by yourself! Please note : This tour is not recommended to guests on gluten-free diets or who have mobility issues. During the Udon Making Experience, guests will be asked to step onto the dough while music is playing. Bring local currency and wear shoes and clothes which are easy to walk in and bring a light jacket or wear long sleeves.

Most people who hear Takamatsu and Park will only think about the famous Ritsurin Garden that is renowned all over Japan for its beauty and peacefulness. But there is more than just Ritsurin. Tamamo Park lies on the grounds of the former T akamatsu Castle which was built in the early Edo period, first by the Ikoma clan, then by Matsudaira clan. It is known around Japan for being one of the only three castles which has a moat that is directly connected to the sea, so the water and the fish are actually from the big blue! Here you can see one of these moats, with the sea in the background. Unfortunately, the original Takamatsu Castle does not stand anymore, it was torn down in the chaos of the Meiji restoration but there are still some surviving structures which reflect old times, such as the walls and moats as well as Mizutegomon Gate . You will then head to Ritsurin Garden. This beautiful Japanese Garden was awarded three stars in the Michelin Green Guide Japan. The 185-acre park features 6 ponds, 13 hills, a waterfall, plum, cherry, and pine trees, a bamboo forest, a tea house, and more. This garden is recognized one of the most beautiful gardens in Japan. You will be taken to the old tea house called "Kikugetsu-tei" to enjoy Maccha Green Tea . Please note : Bring local currency and wear shoes and clothes which are easy to walk in and bring a light jacket or wear long sleeves. You will be required to take off your shoes at the tea house.

Begin your journey with a visit to Shikoku Mura, an open-air museum located at the base of Yashima. This unique museum features traditional buildings and structures that have been relocated from across Shikoku Island, offering a glimpse into the region's cultural heritage. One of its highlights is a vine suspension bridge—crafted from vine and wood—reminiscent of those found in the Iya Valley. After a guided tour, take some free time to explore the area at your own pace. Next, head to Yashima, a flat-topped mountain known for being the site of a significant 12th-century battle during the Gempei War. At the summit, you'll find several points of interest including Yashima Shrine, Yashima Temple, and a monument commemorating the Battle of Yashima. Before returning to the port, take in panoramic views of Takamatsu and the Seto Inland Sea during a relaxing coach ride back. Please Note: Be sure to bring local currency, comfortable walking shoes and clothing, and a light jacket or long sleeves for added comfort throughout the day.

Tour the stunning city of Takamatsu on Shikoku, the smallest of the four main Japanese Islands. Depart from the pier and drive to Seto-Ohashi Bridge . Seto-Ohashi Bridge is a collective term for the 6 bridges with its length of 8 miles. The bridge connects Kojima in Okayama Prefecture on Honshu and Sakaide of Kagawa Prefecture on Shikoku. The bridges took 40 years and a tremendous amount of money to build. You will make a stop for taking photos at the parking space, just at the bottom of the bridge. Next, you will transfer to Kinashi Bonsai Town , which is known as the town producing the largest amount of Pine Tree Bonsai (miniature potted trees) in Japan. The tour includes a visit to a Bonsai farm which has hundreds of years' history making Bonsai Trees. The tour will be followed by a visit to Ritsurin Garden. This beautiful Japanese Garden was awarded three stars in the Michelin Green Guide Japan. The 185-acre park features 6 ponds, 13 hills, a waterfall, plum, cherry, and pine trees, a bamboo forest, a tea house, and more. This garden is recognized as one of the most beautiful gardens in Japan. Please note : Bring local currency and wear shoes and clothes which are easy to walk in and bring a light jacket or wear long sleeves.

The first visit of this tour will be the Shochu Distillery, makers of the Kokuto Shochu a distilled spirit made exclusively in Amami Islands. Shochu is most often distilled nationwide using ingredients such as rice or sweet potato. However, at the Shochu Distillery in Amami, their K okuto Shochu is uniquely made from brown sugar. You will experience the state-of-the-art distillation process that goes into the creation of this one of a kind Shochu that is rich in flavor and aroma. To conclude the distillery factory tour, you will have an opportunity to taste the different types of Shochu. You will visit Oshimatsumugi Kimono village for a tour of its dyed silk weaving factory. During this tour, you will also participate in the mud dying process to craft a handkerchief of your own. Souvenirs and textile goods can also be purchased at the gift shop to bring an authentic item back home. Afterward, return to the pier. P lease note : Bring local currency sunscreen, a hat, a towel, and a light jacket and wear comfortable shoes and clothes that are easy to walk in. You will be required to take off shoes during dyeing experience and will step into the muddy water for dyeing process. It is highly recommended to wear the slacks which you can roll them up to the knees.

Kuninao is a peaceful village where the island’s natural beauty is preserved through white sand beaches and charming Fukugi tree-lined streets. Your visit begins with a guided walk to learn about the area’s history and everyday life. Afterwards, you’ll head to a local venue to take part in a hands-on culinary experience: making a traditional "Keihan" bowl. This beloved local dish from Amami Oshima features tender chicken over rice, topped with ingredients like thinly sliced omelet, pickled ginger, green onions, shiitake mushrooms, and dried seaweed. You'll have the chance to create and enjoy your own delicious Keihan bowl.

Since Amami Oshima Island is an island where flowers in the deep and dark old-growth forest bloom in profusion throughout the year and where one-of-a-kind plants and animals call home, this island is also known as the "Oriental Galapagos." Amami Oshima Island is a treasure chest of valuable plants and animals including a mangrove primeval forest. It is Japan's second largest in terms of area, and is inhabited by the Amami Rabbit , a national protected species, and seeks to be registered as a World Heritage Site. In Mangrove Park, canoeing through the mangroves is popular. This tour is recommended for athletic lovers. You will be required to wear life jacket and do some practice before canoeing and have enough strength to paddle the canoe on your own.On the way to the pier, you will make a photo stop to see the panoramic view of Naze port. Please note : Bring local currency. sunscreen, a hat, a towel, and a light jacket and wear comfortable shoes and clothes that are easy to walk in. Life jacket will be provided. Guests are required to have enough strength to paddle the canoe on their own. Cameras should be protected from the water and will be the responsibility of the guest. Your feet may get wet in the canoe so it is recommended to wear or bring sandals.

Your day will start with Oshimatsumugi Kimono village where you can see local industry and watch the process of making Tsumugi and Kasuri silk-cotton fabrics. You can enjoy a craft complex in a beautiful hillside setting among flowers and many of the plants used in dyeing. Next is to Tanaka Isson Museum and the Amami Park . Tanaka Isson is a nationally proclaimed artist of Japan who is deeply connected with Amami Island and widely known for his flower and bird paintings. Enjoy his great pieces of artwork as well as the folk museum. You will also have time to stroll around the Amami Park and the observation deck with the great view of the surrounding area. Please note : Bring local currency sunscreen, a hat, a towel, and a light jacket and wear comfortable shoes and clothes that are easy to walk in.

Visit Okinawa's historic battlefield sites and monuments of the Battle of Okinawa in this interesting half-day tour. Departing from the pier, you will first travel towards southeast Okinawa, passing by several residential and commercial areas. Your first stop will be at the Former Japanese Navy Underground Headquarters , located where Rear Admiral Ota and his men desperately fought in 1945. Once you have arrived, you will walk down the 101 steps into the narrow tunnels of the headquarters to see the commanding officer's room, staff room, generator rooms and more, giving you unique insight into the experiences the soldiers and officers had inside the headquarters. You will next make your way to Peace Memorial Park , which is built to commemorate the people who died in the war. In the Peace Park, you will also visit the museum with many displays telling about the battle in Okinawa. The final stop will be at Himeyuri Monument , which stands as a symbol of the severity of the Battle of Okinawa. It was built as a dedication to the more than 200 female students and their teachers who lost their lives as volunteer nurses in the Himeyuri Corps. Please note : This tour includes approximately 3-hours of walking that is considered strenuous at times and there are uneven surfaces and a significant number of steps and narrow passageways to negotiate at the Naval Underground Headquarters. There are no elevators or ramps at this attraction. The tour is not available to wheelchair guests or those with mobility concerns. Weather appropriate clothing and flat, comfortable walking shoes are suggested. The order of the sites viewed or visited may vary. We suggest that you bring local currency for any purchases at the sites.

You will travel towards the Shuri Castle . This vermilion-colored castle was the seat of power during the 500-year reign of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Destroyed in World War II, the Castle was rebuilt in 1992 and is surrounded by beautiful gates that lead to Seiden or Main Hall. Following your visit at the Castle, you will be transferred to the local shop where you can have a special coral dyeing experience . There are different shapes of coral's fossil and you will make your own souvenirs with your favorite coral's fossils and colors. Please note : This tour includes approximately 1.5 hours of walking that is considered strenuous at times and there are uneven surfaces and a significant number of steep steps to negotiate. The tour is not available to wheelchair guests and it is not considered suitable for those with mobility concerns. The coral dyeing process will leave permanent stains on clothing so casual clothing that you will not mind getting permanently stained is recommended, along with sturdy yet comfortable walking shoes. Shoes must be removed during the visit to the South Hall (Nanden) and main hall of Shuri Castle. While photography is permitted on the grounds of Shuri Castle, none is permitted inside. The Shuri Castle has restoration work being done and some areas may not be accessible. Bring local currency for any purchases at the sites. The order of the sites viewed or visit may vary.

This unique tour not only gives you the opportunity to observe and learn the secrets of the art of Bingata, a multicolored dyeing process used for silk and vegetable fibers, but also allows you to actively participate in making your own creation. Depart the pier by coach for a short drive to Tembusu Naha , where you will have the opportunity to learn about the history of the art of Bingata, originally produced solely for Okinawa's warrior class since the 15th century. Bingata-dyed fabric has been produced in the Ryukyu Islands for centuries, but is believed that the multi-colored dyeing process was originally introduced from southern China. Discover the secrets of this ancient art as you create your very own piece of Ryukyu Bingata, with a complex pattern of alternating light and dark dyes. At the end of this interactive class, you will be able to take home with you your piece of traditional Bingata as a souvenir of your visit. Rejoining your coach, you will travel towards the Shurijyo Castle . This vermilion-colored castle was the seat of power during the 500-year reign of the Ryukyu Kindgom. Destroyed in World War II, the Castle was rebuilt in 1992 and is surrounded by beautiful gates that lead to Seiden or Main Hall. Following your visit at the Castle, you will be transferred back to the pier. Please note : This tour includes approximately 1.5 hours of walking that is considered strenuous at times and there are uneven surfaces and a significant number of steep steps to negotiate. The tour is not available to wheelchair guests and it is not considered suitable for those with mobility concerns. The Bingata dyeing process will leave permanent stains on clothing so casual clothing that you will not mind getting permanently stained is recommended, along with sturdy yet comfortable walking shoes. Shoes must be removed during the visit to the South Hall (Nanden) and main hall of Shurijo Castle. While photography is permitted on the grounds of Shurijo Castle, none is permitted inside. The Shrijo Castle has restoration work being done and some areas may not be accessible. We suggest that you bring local currency for any purchases at the sites. The order of the sites viewed or visit may vary.

Your half-day tour begins with a visit to Sefa-Utaki, one of the most sacred sites of the Ryukyu Kingdom and part of the UNESCO World Heritage “Gusuku Sites and Related Properties of the Kingdom of Ryukyu” in Nanjō, Okinawa. Historically, Sefa-Utaki served as a place of worship for the Ryukyu Religion and holds the highest rank among the sacred sites. Surrounded by lush nature, it offers a peaceful setting where you can enjoy a relaxing walk through the beautiful forest. Next, you will visit an Awamori distillery, where you’ll learn about the traditional distillation process and have the chance to sample this distinctive Okinawan liquor. Awamori, made from Indica rice, has been produced in Okinawa since the 15th century, when the technique was introduced from Thailand. Its flavor and smoothness deepen with age, making it a truly unique spirit. Enjoy discovering the rich history and taste of this beloved local beverage.

Unlike other parts of Japan, Okinawa has its own separate history, having been the independent kingdom of Ryukyu during the 15th century. On this half-day excursion, you will explore the city of Naha , the capital and largest city of Okinawa Prefecture, and former capital of the Ryukyu kings. Leaving the port, you will drive to Shuri Castle , the administrative center and residence of the Ryukyu royal family for over 400 years, until Okinawa became a Japanese prefecture in 1879. A UNESCO World Heritage Site , the castle rests on a hill providing outstanding views of Naha and the sea. You will see the lavishly decorated Seiden (Main Hall) , and the ornate Shurei Gate . Known as the Gate of Courtesy, it typifies Okinawan architecture and serves as a symbol of modern day Okinawa. After the castle, you will be escorted to Shikina en Garden, which is known as one of the best Japanese Style Gardens in Okinawa. Please note : This tour includes approximately 2.5 hours of walking that is considered strenuous at times and there are uneven surfaces and a significant number of steep steps to negotiate. The tour is not available to wheelchair guests and it is not considered suitable for those with mobility concerns. Shoes must be removed during the visit to the south hall (Nanden) and the main hall of Shurijo Castle. While photography is permitted on the grounds of Shurijo Castle, none is permitted inside. The Shurijo Castle has restoration work being done and some areas may not be accessible. Bring local currency for any purchases at the sites, sunscreen and a hat. The order of the sites viewed or visited may vary.

Takeromijima is where you will find a traditional, beautifully preserved Ryukyu village on Taketomi Island just off the coast of Ishigaki Island. The tour will start with taking a 15-minute ferry ride from the Ishigaki Ferry Terminal to Taketomi Island. Once you get in the village, you will see the houses with traditional red-tiled roofs, tutelary Sheesaa clay lions on the roofs, walls made of coral stones, streets paved with white sand. See and enjoy these unspoiled sceneries of Okinawa. The tour will also include the opportunity to ride on a Water Ox Carriage running through the village. Also, take your time and stroll through the streets to feel the tradition and culture still alive in the islanders' lifestyle. After strolling around the village, you will have free time at Kaijihama Beach , which is known as one of the most beautiful beaches in Japan. Please note : This tour is not wheelchair accessible. Wear comfortable walking shoes, and bring sunscreen, a hat and local currency. If you choose to get on the water ox carriage, you will be required to get into the cart by unassisted. It is not allowed to touch the water ox without the permission as a safety precaution.

Ishigaki Island is the main island of the Yaeyama Islands, the southern-most island chain in Japan. Ishigaki offers several nice beaches and good snorkeling and diving in the surrounding coral reefs. Your first destination will be Banna Forest Park , a spacious nature reserve which is located just a few miles to the north of Ishigaki City. It is a place which can be enjoyed by everyone. The park itself is positioned around what can broadly be described as a mountain (peaking at just 656 feet), and is divided into four zones and a 'Skyline' all of which are linked by paths and roads. You will have a short photo stop at the observation deck inside Banna Park. The guide will then take you to Kabira Bay . With its emerald green and blue hues, Kabira Bay is considered one of the most beautiful places in Japan and definitely on the top of the list for Okinawa. Clear ocean, small boats floating on beautiful water, the cute shapes of neighboring islands, and the sweeping sky. This combination is the greatest feature of Kabira Bay. We will make a short stop at a local café to have some refreshments with a view of the East China Sea. The tour will be followed by a photo stop at Shisa (guardian lions in Okinawa) Square in front of local Yonekoyaki Pottery. This small studio produces unique local pottery and various big monuments at Shisa Square. This square will be completed in 2019, but you will be impressed how unique the local artists are! Please note : This tour is not wheelchair accessible. Wear comfortable walking shoes, and bring sunscreen, a hat and local currency.

See the highlights of Ishigaki on a carefully planned tour. You will depart from the pier by motor coach and your 20-minute ride will take you to Yaima Village , a theme park where you can experience the Yaeyama culture and nature . Ishigaki Yaima Village is located on top of the hill where you can view the Nagura Gulf. You will see a Yaeyama row of houses, hear, Sanshin music , see Ryukyu national costuming, Shisa coloring and other experiences will be available. The feeding of the cute squirrels is a popular thing to do. Then you will head to Kabira Bay . With its emerald green and blue hues, Kabira Bay is considered one of the most beautiful places in Japan and definitely on the top of the list for Okinawa. Clear ocean, small boats floating on beautiful water, the cute shapes of neighboring islands, and the sweeping sky. This combination is the greatest feature of Kabira Bay. A touristy 30-minute-long glass bottom boat ride will let you take a look at the bay's underwater world as well. Kabira Bayand Iriomote are the only two cultivation sites of black pearls in Japan. Your last stop will be at Banna Forest Park , a spacious nature reserve located just a few miles to the north of Ishigaki City. It is a place which can be enjoyed by absolutely anybody. The park itself is positioned around what can broadly be described as a mountain (peaking at just 656 feet), and is divided into four zones and a 'Skyline' all of which are linked by paths and roads. You will have a short photo stop at the observation deck inside the Banna Park. Please note : This tour is not wheelchair accessible. Wear comfortable walking shoes, and bring sunscreen, a hat and local currency. You will have to walk on the beach to reach the glass bottom boat. The actual boat ride is approximately 30 minutes.

Your motor coach today will take you on a 50-minute panoramic drive on your way to Taipei. You will stop at Di-Hua Street for a walking tour through and area that will give you a feel of what Taipei City's past was like. The old-town market has scores of shops selling a variety of traditional goods such as Chinese medicines and herbs, temple icons and incense, spices and dried food, colorful bolts of cloth, bamboo and wooden crafts. You will have shopping time here before you head to a local Tea House. Taiwanese tea culture includes tea arts, traditional tea ceremonies, and the social aspects of tea consumption. Most people in Taiwan drink tea and tea serves not only as a drink, but also as a part of the culture. You will take part in the Chinese Kong Fu tea ceremony involving the ritualized preparation and presentation of tea. The term literally means "making tea with skill." Today, the approach is used popularly by tea shops carrying tea of Chinese origins, and by tea connoisseurs as a way to maximize the taste of a tea selection, especially a finer one. Please note : Wear comfortable walking shoes. This tour is not wheelchair accessible

This tour will be a delightful mix of old and new Taipei. Board your motor coach for a 50-minute drive to Taipei 101 the world's second tallest building. It is the pride of Taipei's skyline and is testament to the country's engineering and technological capabilities. It has the fastest elevator in the world which will take you only 37 seconds to go up to 89 floors to the observatory deck. Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hal l is your next stop. Constructed in the memory of the former president, Mr. Chiang Kai Shek, the Memorial is the attraction most visited by foreign tourists. Finally drive to visit Pao-An Temple. Dedicated to God of Medicine, Pao-An Temple was built over 230 years ago. One of the islands oldest, the temple contains many ornate and intricate carvings. Please note : Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in conservative clothing with shoulders and knees covered.

This tour will take you along the beautiful coastline with the bizarre rock formations of northern Taiwan. You will have a 40-minute drive to Yeliu Geo Park , a long cape formed by that Datum Mountain reaching into the sea that is famous for bizarre, fascinating rock formations created by erosion. Millions of years of sea erosion have molded coastal bedrock into strange sculptures, many of which resemble certain images. Be on the lookout for the famous Candle, the fairy's Shoe, Bean Curd, etc. The most famous of these uncanny rock formations is the Queen's Head. You will drive another 40 minutes to Chiufen Village where it is said that there were only nine families here a long time ago. Chiufen used to be the center of gold mining. The village is next to the mountain and facing the sea. In 1890, someone struck gold near Chiufen. The poor village with only nine families soon attracted prospectors of 4,000 families.. The place is whispering its golden past. Now, there are many unique tea houses in Chiufen. These teahouses are good stops during a visit to this mountain village. Also, there is the beautiful ocean view of Keelung's outer sea. Please note : Wear comfortable walking shoes.

You will board your motor coach for a day of Taipei highlights. A 50-minute drive will take you to the National Palace Museum which houses ancient Chinese artifacts and artwork, with some pieces dating back 5,000 years You will visit this museum, renowned as one of the greatest museums in the world before a short drive to the Martyrs' Shrine , built in 1969. Here you will see its magnificent architectural style symbolizing the martyrs' brave spirit. It is the replica of the Taihe Imperial Palace in the Forbidden City. The highlight of your visit here is to see the ceremonial changing of the guards. You will then drive to the Grand Hotel for lunch . The Grand Hotel, with its traditional palace style architecture, vermilion pillars, stately archways, and brilliantly tiled roof, is not only a magnificent landmark of Taiwan, but it is an emblem of ancient China. A 20-minute drive will get you to Lungshan Temple built in 1740. It is the city's oldest and most famous, as well as one of Taiwan's finest examples of temple design. Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall is your next stop. Constructed in the memory of the former president, Mr. Chiang Kai Shek, the Memorial is the attraction most visited by foreign tourists. You will have a short shopping stop and the Handicraft Center and then drive to Taipei 101 the world's second tallest building. It is the pride of Taipei's skyline and is testament to the country's engineering and technological capabilities. It has the fastest elevator in the world takes only 37 seconds to go up to 89 floors to the observatory deck. Please note : Wear comfortable walking shoes, dress in conservative clothing with shoulders and knees covered and bring local currency.