$4499—Save $1480 on 18-nt Japan autumn fly-stay-cruise

Visiting Japan in autumn, when mild weather and fiery foliage transform the landscape, is magical. Over 18 nights, enjoy a seamless fly-stay-cruise from Sydney, including flights, hotel, and cruise. You’ll circle the islands from Hokkaido’s cool north to Kyushu’s warm south. Follow autumn’s colours as they deepen from gold to crimson across Japan’s changing coastlines. This isn’t the usual Tokyo–Kyoto route. It’s Japan in full. Sample fresh seafood in Hakodate, soak in Aomori’s hot springs, and taste sake in Niigata. Wander Kanazawa’s gardens, visit ancient shrines in Sakaiminato, and explore samurai heritage in Kagoshima. A stop in Busan adds a glimpse of South Korea’s temples and seaside markets. With 11 ports, you’ll see Japan’s local heartlands without navigating train timetables or luggage. Begin and end in Tokyo—alive with energy—while the journey between offers peaceful contrasts. It’s an easy journey through Japan’s nuances, where every city reveals a distinct story and spirit.

This CruiseAway package is just $4499 per person and includes flights, transfers, and 4-star hotel stays. With our exclusive discount, you’ll save up to $1480 per person compared to self-packaging.

What's included

• One-way flight from Sydney to Tokyo
• 3-night stay at a 4-star hotel in Tokyo with breakfast
• 14-night return cruise from onboard the Diamond Princess
  • Ports of call: Hakodate, Aomori, Akita, Niigata, Kanazawa, Sakaiminato, Busan, Nagasaki, Kagoshima, Miyazaki, Omaezaki
  • Onboard gourmet dining across a range of complimentary venues
  • Unrivalled entertainment including Spotlight Bar, Rock Opera, Fiera, and more
  • Varied entertainment programs
  • All port taxes and charges
• Transfer from Yokohama port to Tokyo airport
• One-way flight from Tokyo to Sydney

When

This itinerary departs Sydney on 25 October 2026.

Cabin upgrades

Featured prices are based on an Interior Cabin while cruising. Upgrades start from $500 per person:

• +$500 for an Outside cabin
• +$2000 for a Balcony cabin
• +$3000 for a Suite cabin

To find out more, see our partner’s website.

Members only: We also negotiated up to $200 off this 16-night Japan and Taiwan fly, cruise, and tour package. Sail Japan’s southern islands—Miyakojima, Naha, Ishigaki—where Japanese and Chinese influences collide. Dip your toes in turquoise beaches, sample island treats, and escape the tourist crowds. Then discover Taiwan over 10 days—Taipei’s buzz, Sun Moon Lake’s calm, and the scenic east coast. It's perfect for seasoned explorers.

Holiday Snapshot

Sydney – Tokyo – Yokohama – Hakodate – Aomori – Akita – Niigata – Kanazawa – Sakaiminato – Busan – Nagasaki – Kagoshima – Miyazaki – Omaezaki – Yokohama – Sydney

Itinerary highlights

Begin your adventure in Tokyo, Japan's bustling capital, where tradition meets innovation. Explore Asakusa, marvel at Meiji Shrine, and experience Shibuya Crossing's vibrant atmosphere.  Visit the Mount Fuji World Heritage Centre to learn about Japan's iconic peak. Then, admire the majestic beauty of Mount Fuji itself, a symbol of Japan's natural splendour.

Ride the gondola to the observation deck of Mount Hakodate. Enjoy a traditional seafood rice bowl (kaisen-don) from the Morning Market. Explore the site of famous battles at Fort Goryokaku.

Nebuta Museum Wa Rasse is dedicated to the famous Aomori Nebuta Matsuri festival. Rejuvenate in the soothing waters of an onsen. Enjoy beautiful, fiery foliage and panoramic views on the Hakkoda Aerial Tram.

Stroll the historical streets in the samurai district of Kakunodate, in Akita. Explore the natural beauty of Lake Tazawa, Japan’s deepest lake. Savour Akita’s famous sake with a delicious meal.

The Suwada Open Factory in Niigata showcases craftsmanship and traditional forging techniques. For 360-degree views, including the Sea of Japan, visit the Bakauke observation floor. The Yahiko Shrine is surrounded by mountains and lush greenery,

Kanazawa has a distinguished history of producing Japan’s finest gold leaf. With over 180 stalls, Omicho Market is perfect for desserts incorporating the gold leaf. Meander through Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s Three Great Gardens.

Discover the ancient Izumo Grand Shrine in Sakaiminato.  Explore the Hinomisaki Shrine and see the tallest stone masonry lighthouse in Japan. Enjoy koi ponds, waterfalls and streams at Yushien Garden.

See the spectacular Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, built into the side of a cliff, in Busan. Relax at Haeundae Beach and try gukpab (a traditional rice soup) at its ramshackle stalls. Visit the low-key Millak Hoe Town Market and the famous Jagalchi Fish Market.

Visit the Atomic Bomb Museum and nearby Peace Park for a powerful reflection on Nagasaki's past. Indulge in local cuisine in Shianbashi Gourmet Street and Chinatown. Take the Nagasaki Slope Car to the Mt Inasa observation platform for 360-degree views of the spectacular scenery below.

Learn about the marine life of Kagoshima Bay at the city aquarium. Ibusuki onsen is unique because it includes a warm sand bath as part of your treatment. Chiran Peace Museum for Kamikaze Pilots is a significant site you can tour.

See natural wave-eroded rocks that protrude from the ocean on Aoshima Island near Miyazaki. Sample shouchu (similar to sake) at a local brewery. Explore the Udo Shrine and the Obi Castle ruins.

Enjoy stunning views on the Kanzanji ropeway near Omaezaki. Meander through the gardens near the Sunpu Castle and visit a Sukiya-style teahouse. For an immersive experience in Japanese Zen spiritualism, visit Kasuisai Temple.