$4899—Japan's Nebuta Festival: Celebrity fly-cruise-stay
Stay overnight in Aomori for the Nebuta Festival as giant glowing lantern floats parade through town
Why We Love This Deal
Towering illuminated floats. Thunderous taiko drums. Dancers leaping through streets alive with colour. Every August, Aomori's Nebuta Festival brings locals and visitors together for one of Japan's great summer celebrations. Experience Japanese culture alongside the people who keep these traditions alive. Ecruising's 14-night Japan and South Korea holiday is timed for the festivities. After two nights in Tokyo, board Celebrity Millennium for a 12-night cruise, including an overnight in Aomori. Enjoy the festivities well into the evening, then return to your cabin. No need to find a hotel during one of Aomori's busiest weeks.
The cruise has plenty more to offer before reaching Aomori. Glimpse Mount Fuji from Shimizu on a clear day. An overnight in Osaka gives you time to explore Kyoto's temples and historic Gion district. Discover laid-back Kochi before crossing to South Korea's Busan. A late departure from Hakodate offers the chance to admire its famous night views.
From $4899 per person, return flights, Tokyo accommodation, the cruise, drinks and Wi-Fi are included. Our research found savings of up to $1053 per person compared with self-packaging.
What's included
- Return international airfares from Australia* to Tokyo
- 2-night stay at a 4-star hotel in Tokyo
- 12-night cruise aboard Celebrity Millennium, roundtrip from Tokyo
- Ports of call: Mt Fuji (Shimizu), Kyoto (Osaka) (overnight), Kochi, Busan (South Korea), Hakodate and Aomori (overnight)
- Classic Drinks Package and Wi-Fi, meals in complimentary dining venues, onboard activities, entertainment, port charges and taxes
When
This itinerary departs Australia* on 24 July 2027.
Cabin upgrade
Featured prices are based on an Inside cabin while cruising. Upgrades start at $600pp:
- +$600 for an Outside cabin
- +$2000 for a Balcony
- +$3000 for Concierge Class
To find out more, see our partner's website.
Holiday snapshot
Australia* - Tokyo - Mount Fuji (Shimizu) - Kyoto (Osaka) - Kochi - Busan - Hakodate - Aomori - Tokyo - Australia*
Itinerary highlights
Your voyage begins in Tokyo, where ancient temples sit among soaring skyscrapers. Explore Senso-ji Temple in historic Asakusa, then join the crowds at Shibuya Crossing before boarding Celebrity Millennium for a late-afternoon departure.
Wake up in Shimizu, where Japan’s most famous peak, Mount Fuji, may appear on the horizon on a clear day. Revered as sacred since ancient times, this near-perfect volcanic cone is one of Japan’s most enduring symbols.
An overnight stay in Osaka gives you time to discover nearby Kyoto, Japan’s cultural heartland. Walk beneath the vermilion gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine, admire the Golden Pavilion and stroll the historic Gion district, where geisha traditions endure.
Spend a second day in Osaka soaking up the city’s energy. Feast on takoyaki and okonomiyaki in neon-lit Dotonbori, or visit the striking Osaka Castle before the ship sails in the evening.
Laid-back Kochi reveals a quieter, more traditional side of Japan. Explore its 17th-century castle, browse the shops of Harimayabashi Street and try the local favourite, seared bonito known as katsuo no tataki.
After a relaxing day at sea, cross to Busan, South Korea’s buzzing port city. Find calm at Beomeo-sa Temple, then take in sweeping sea views from Busan Tower in Yongdusan Park.
Following another day at sea, a late night in Hakodate on the island of Hokkaido leaves time to enjoy its famous views after dark. Ride the cable car up Mount Hakodate, explore the star-shaped Goryokaku Fort and feast on fresh seafood and ramen.
The ship stays overnight in Aomori for the spectacular Nebuta Festival. As night falls, towering illuminated floats depicting warriors, gods and mythical creatures parade through the streets, accompanied by taiko drums, flutes and energetic dancers.
Spend a second day in Aomori exploring one of Japan’s most underrated cities. Admire the Aomori Museum of Art, take in city views from the ASPAM pyramid, or ride the ropeway up Mount Hakkoda.
After a final day at sea, your cruise ends in Tokyo early in the morning.