November 5–16, 2027
From neon skylines to hidden shores, this is a voyage of captivating contrasts. Begin in Tokyo’s bright embrace, where tradition meets innovation, and journey south through cultural heartlands to Japan’s rarely explored islands — the tranquil Miyako and Ishigaki. Along the way, feel the rhythm shift: from city to sea, from energy to ease, from discovery to pure serenity.
This journey celebrates the balance of opposites — the pulse of Asia’s great cities and the whisper of its most secluded shores.
The Hidden Isles of Japan
Beyond the mainland, a gentler world unfolds. In Okinawa, the warmth of the Ryukyu spirit lives on — a culture shaped by the sea, sun, and centuries of independence. Further south, the Miyako and Ishigaki Islands invite a rare kind of stillness. White sands stretch endlessly, coral reefs shimmer just beneath the surface, and island life follows the rhythm of the waves. Here, Japan feels untouched — luminous, quiet, and entirely unhurried.
Day 1 — Tokyo, Japan
Embarkation: 12:00–1:30 PM | Departure: 4:30 PM
Begin where modern brilliance meets ancient spirit. Wander the historic lanes of Asakusa beneath temple lanterns, explore the tranquil forests of Meiji Shrine, or simply stand in awe as Shibuya Crossing hums with electric energy. Tokyo is a city of contrasts — timeless, thrilling, and unforgettable.
Board the EXPLORA III and let the journey begin!
Aboard EXPLORA III
Refined and radiant, EXPLORA III offers an ocean experience defined by European elegance.
Discover 11 distinct culinary venues, world-class wellness, and suites designed for space, light, and sea views.
Every detail, every flavor, every horizon — perfectly balanced between adventure and ease.
Day 2 — Nagoya, Japan
9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
A city of refinement and legacy. Discover the feudal elegance of Nagoya Castle (pictured below) and the sacred calm of Atsuta Shrine, home to one of Japan’s Imperial treasures. In the lively Ōsu district, shop local crafts and sample Nagoya’s famous miso katsu. Culture and creativity thrive side by side here.
Day 3 — Kochi, Japan
9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Kochi is a study in serenity — samurai heritage framed by natural beauty. Visit its hilltop castle, wander temple gardens on Mount Godai, and meet the warmth of locals in Hirome Market over plates of katsuo no tataki. The sea breeze carries stories of explorers, poets, and fishermen — all bound to this coast.
Kochi, Japan
Day 4 — At Sea
A day to surrender to the rhythm of the ocean.
Indulge in fine dining beneath open skies, join a wine tasting, or restore balance with an ocean-inspired spa ritual. Aboard EXPLORA III, time slows to match the tides.
Day 5 — Shanghai, China
9:00 AM – 11:30 PM
In Shanghai, heritage and futurism meet in luminous harmony. Along The Bund, ornate colonial facades gaze across the river at the gleaming towers of Pudong. Wander Yu Garden’s quiet courtyards or glide through the canals of Zhujiajiao. By evening, the skyline transforms into a living constellation reflected in the river’s glassy flow.
Day 6 — At Sea
Let the ocean carry you deeper into calm.
Begin your morning with sunrise yoga, take a class in The Chef’s Kitchen, or simply let the sea breeze write your day’s agenda.
Day 7 — Naha (Okinawa), Japan
8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Okinawa — where island culture blooms in color and song. Explore Shurijo Castle, the hilltop home of the Ryukyu kings, or stroll lively Kokusai Dori, filled with markets, artisans, and the sound of sanshin music. Here, history feels alive, and hospitality radiates like sunlight on the sea.
Day 8 — Miyako Islands, Japan
9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Welcome to paradise.
The Miyako Islands are a secret kept by the sea — with white-sand beaches, crystal lagoons, and coral reefs teeming with life. Lounge along Yonaha Maehama Beach, cross the graceful Irabu Bridge, and uncover hidden coves untouched by time. Here, peace isn’t a place — it’s the air itself.
Day 9 — Ishigaki Island, Japan
9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
The emerald heart of the Yaeyama archipelago, Ishigaki is where adventure meets tranquility. Drift over Kabira Bay’s vivid waters on a glass-bottom boat, explore limestone caves carved by time, or dive with manta rays in coral gardens. It’s the perfect blend of nature’s artistry and island soul.
Day 10 — At Sea
As your voyage nears its end, take one more day to simply be. Whether poolside beneath the open sky or savoring Mediterranean flavors at Med Yacht Club, let the ocean’s serenity linger.
Days 11–12 — Hong Kong, China
Arrival: 8:00 AM | Overnight in Port | Disembarkation: 7:00–8:15 AM
A dazzling crescendo to your journey. Hong Kong glimmers where East meets West — from the sweeping views atop Victoria Peak to the calm of Lantau Island’s Tian Tan Buddha. Glide through Aberdeen’s floating village or toast the city’s skyline from the harbor as your exploration of the East draws to a radiant close.