A Memorable Cruise Around The 'Land of The Rising Sun'
Historic sites, delicious food, stunning landscapes and sheer indulgence made Tony and Barbara Hallwood's experience in Japan and on their cruise, Queen Elizabeth, one to remember
We recently had the pleasure of sailing aboard Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth, a 10-night cruise circumnavigating Japan, visiting 6 unique regions of this enchanting country. As discerning travellers, we are always seeking travel experiences that combine style, culture and comfort – and our journey across Japan exceeded all expectations.
Welcome on Board
We boarded Queen Elizabeth in Yokohama, with the dramatic skyline of Tokyo on the horizon. It was like coming home – the graceful Cunard style we’ve come to know and love. The ship delivers a wonderful sense of occasion – Art Deco interiors, polished wood panelling and its crew provide a first-class service. Our comfortable balcony stateroom had lovely sea views and following its recent refit, the ship looked fresh and elegant. The atmosphere on board was chilled yet civilised. Our favourite spot, however, was the Commodore Club, which delivered fantastic 180 degree views out to sea and offered an inviting and sophisticated atmosphere for a pre-dinner drink.
Onboard Dining
Dining was a highlight throughout. The Britannia Restaurant offered quality menus with a fine-dining feel, especially on the three ‘Gala Evenings'. For those who wanted a more relaxed atmosphere, the Lido provided a wide selection of international dishes from its buffet offering. We particularly enjoyed the themed ‘pop-up’ evenings - with Bamboo (Asian), La Piazza (Italian) and Coriander (Indian) which offered delicious regional cuisines in a more casual setting. The service at the Steakhouse restaurant, however, was on a different level, with impeccable service and top drawer cuisine offering the best Wagyu steaks and an amazing cheese board.
Our tastebuds were energised for breakfast by relaxing on deck at the brand new Wellness Cafe, which delivered a wide choice of nutritious seasonal options for health-conscious cruisers. Cunard have listened to customers feedback and this outdoor option ticked all the boxes. Morning coffee was a chilled occasion on our sea days sitting in the elegant Cafe Carinthia as the ship majestically rode the waves, whilst Afternoon Tea in the recently refurbished Queen’s Room was a highlight, truly delivering the White Star service that is Cunard.
Chill Out or Work Out?
Cruising is now attracting a wider range of travellers and on Queen Elizabeth we can see why. On the three sea days, there was the opportunity to chill on deck, either soaking up the sun or being pampered in the indulgent Wellness and Beauty Spa. We loved the Aqua Therapy Centre unwinding in the hydrotherapy pool; it was sheer bliss, delivering a welcome chance to relax after the excitement of the port visits. Having indulged enjoying the wonderful choice of food on board we made regular visits to the well-equipped onboard gym (which has great views out to sea) or ventured outside on the promenade deck for invigorating walks, soaking in the bracing sea air. For the less active cruisers, there are top quality speakers and classes where you can learn to paint or play bridge – it’s never dull and full of surprises. We even tried our hand (or should I say feet) at learning Tango in the stunning Queen’s Room. Meanwhile, daily top-class entertainment in the palatial Royal Court Theatre, from live music to theatre and dance productions, delivered a touch of class for those looking for West End-style performances.
Port Highlights
The cruise itinerary itself offered a unique view of this enchanting nation, delivering a diverse range of ports, each offering its own slice of Japanese life and culture. There were a considerable number of Japanese travellers on board this cruise and ‘Konnichiwa’ meaning ‘Hello' soon became our greeting for everyone!
Each of the 6 ports we visited on this cruise around Japan offered a different insight, from Hokkaido in the North to Nagasaki in the South and from Matsue in the West to Tokyo in the East. Over 10 days we circumnavigated the entire country and each destination delivered an intriguing insight into Japan’s traditions and unique history. An experience not to be missed - our highlights were:
Hakodate, where the cable car to the summit of Mt. Hakodate, delivered one of the most breathtaking night views we’ve ever experienced. We were also fortunate to capture the last flush of the cherry blossom, which was absolutely stunning.
Aomori - After listening to Japanese music in the peaceful Showa Daibutsu temple with its 5 story pagoda (the third largest in Japan), we were in awe of the gigantic seated bronze Buddha statue. Back in town we visited the amazing striking red WA RASSE Museum which showcases the Aomori Nebuta festival with huge parade floats and colourful taiko drum displays to awake your senses.
Matsue was full of charm; its 17th century castle is magnificent and one of the few originals remaining in Japan today. The highlight was the boat trip around the castle moat delivering a unique insight into the life of the Samurai during the Edo period as we visited their palatial residences. Matsue was one of those off-the-beaten-track ports that really felt truly authentic.
Busan (South Korea), allowed us to explore the colourful and vibrant fish market, take a ride to the top of the Busan Tower delivering 360 degree views of the city and visit the impressive nearby Beomeosa Buddhist Temple. Our energy even extended to wandering the colourful and eclectic Gamcheon Cultural Village with its steep streets and narrow alleyways set in a natural amphitheatre. It was a fascinating yet brief insight into South Korea, delivering a cultural contrast with their close neighbour Japan.
Nagasaki in contrast, was a truly moving experience - visiting the Peace Park and the cities Atomic Bomb Museum reminded us of the devastating event in 1945 that reshaped the city.
Shimizu - They always say that you should save the best until last, and our final port of call delivered the icing on the cake. From our balcony we could see Mt Fuji in the far horizon - a truly awe-inspiring sight that delivered an iconic image that will forever remain imprinted on our minds. It was a perfect finale to a memorable cruise with Cunard on Queen Elizabeth.
In Summary
This was a most incredible trip to the ‘Land of the Rising Sun’ – Japan is totally unique and truly awakens your senses. From the luxury of Queen Elizabeth to the diverse local culture and history we didn’t want to leave. The locals made us feel special, their hospitality was genuine, quite simply – we loved it…and we will return.
Cruising with Cunard delivers iconic voyages, fine restaurants, unique enrichment and wellness delivered with their distinctive White Star service - you cannot fail to be impressed. So if you are thinking of booking a cruise for the first time or are regular cruisers, Cunard is a great choice - whether it’s sailing around Asia, Europe, North America or the Caribbean you will not be disappointed.
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