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Best of Japan: Nebuta Festival 12 Nights • Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan • Celebrity Solstice
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Itinerary & Excursions
Cruise Overview
Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan
Mt Fuji (Shimizu), Japan
Kyoto (Osaka), Japan
Kochi, Japan
Day at Sea
Busan, South Korea
Day at Sea
Hakodate, Japan
Aomori, Japan
Day at Sea
Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan
Cruise Overview
Explore a region where rich history meets modern innovation, offering a tapestry of experiences that captivate the senses. Wander through colorful markets filled with exotic sights and sounds, take in breathtaking views from scenic landscapes, and indulge in unforgettable culinary experiences that showcase the region's diverse flavors. Engage with local traditions, discover hidden gems, and create lasting memories as you journey through this captivating continent. With Celebrity Cruises, experience why nothing comes close to the wonders of Asia, where adventure and culture await at every turn.
A cruising experience with us provides access to a range of destinations. Specific ports of call are subject to change due to weather, safety or operational considerations.
Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan
Yokohama cruise. There aren't many places on Earth that blend ancient tradition and the ultra modern quite like Tokyo. Centuries-old gardens and cobblestone laneways live in perfect harmony with soaring skyscrapers and dazzling neon lights. Get immersed in an unrivalled dining scene, fashionable boutiques, and endless cultural encounters in this ever-evolving city.
Mt Fuji (Shimizu), Japan
On clear days, particularly in winter, Mount Fuji (Fuji-san in Japanese) is visible from as far as Tokyo, 60 miles away. When Japan's highest mountain is capped with snow, it's a picture-postcard perfect volcanic cone. One of the best-known symbols of Japan, this iconic mountain has been considered sacred since ancient times and was even forbidden to women until the early 1900s.
Travel Tips
1
Buses and ferries travel regular routes from the Port of Shimizu to the center of town. Because you’ll be docking at the port instead of in the town of Fuji, it may take an hour-and-a-half car ride to reach the summit of the mountain. Be sure to leave plenty of time to get around, as Mount Fuji is one of the most popular attractions in the area. Taxis are available too, but aren’t as common in the Shimizu area as they are in other parts of Japan.2
The best area for shopping is a short five-minute walk from the Shimizu port, where you can eat a snack, buy souvenirs, and shop for handmade Japanese goods. There’s even a museum dedicated to sushi at the Suruga Souvenir Shopping Area. Shop a bit before continuing on to Mount Fuji.3
Tipping isn’t a must in Japan. In fact, some people in Japan find the practice of tipping abnormal, so broach the topic carefully. In general, you don’t have to tip your taxi driver or your waitstaff. Tipping a tour guide is up to you, but handing the guide money directly is a no-no. Use cash while in Japan instead of credit cards. Many smaller establishments don’t accept credit cards, so carry a little extra yen to cover your day-to-day costs.Kyoto (Osaka), Japan
Visit Osaka Aquarium, one of the world’s largest aquariums which has over 580 species of sea life on display, or Universal Studios Japan, the company’s first theme park outside of the U.S. Kyoto served as the nation’s capital for more than 1000 years and is home to 17 different World Heritage Sites including Kiyomizudera Temple and Heian Jingu Shrine.
Travel Tips
1
At the Osaka cruise terminal, you’ll find the Osakako subway station just a few blocks away. The easy-to-navigate subway system takes you around Osaka and also connects you to the train station, where you can travel to nearby cities such as Kyoto and Nara. You can also explore Kyoto on a shore excursion, which includes transportation. Within Kyoto, there are several options for public transportation including subways, buses, and taxis. Kyoto is a mostly flat and compact city, so it’s easy to walk or explore on a bike.2
Take a short taxi ride from the Tempozan Passenger Terminal in Osaka to Shinsaibashi, a popular indoor arcade, where you’ll find hundreds of shops ranging from large department stores to smaller boutiques. The main shopping areas in Kyoto are clustered near the Kyoto Station and downtown Kyoto. Some of the best souvenirs include locally made Japanese wash, incense, green tea, yukata robes, and ceramics.3
The local currency in Japan is the yen. Credit cards are accepted in major stores and restaurants, but you should carry some cash to pay for taxis and other smaller purchases. Tipping is not customary in Japan, and in some instances can even be considered rude, so don’t worry about leaving a tip even after an excellent meal or service.Kochi, Japan
The capital of Kochi Prefecture on the southern coast of Shikoku is small, friendly, and boasts several attractions of interest to travelers. Make sure to enjoy some Katsuo no tataki, Kochi's most famous dish, and visit the temple and botanical garden at Mount Godaisan.
Travel Tips
1
Taking a taxi or walking are your best bets for getting around Kochi from the cruise port and within the city. You can also take a free shuttle bus from the Kochi cruise port to the bus terminal and go from there. There isn’t a public transit system in Kochi, so be aware of taxi wait times when you and fellow cruise passengers are trying to hail rides.2
You’ll find souvenir stalls and shops along the pier as you venture into the center of Kochi. Then, spend some time shopping along Harimayabashi Street, where there are hundreds of shops to get your fill of fashion and food. There are a lot of options within a short walking distance, so be sure to dedicate some of your afternoon to taking it all in. Every weekend, there’s a Sunday market where locals have been buying and selling fresh produce and goods for decades. It’s one of Kochi’s enduring local traditions.3
The official currency of Japan is called the Yen, and paying with cash in Japan is the typical approach. Tipping is viewed as unnecessary in Japan. The culture is very polite and respectful, so they view good service as a reward in and of itself. On a cruise to Kochi, Japan, you don’t have to tip at restaurants or in taxis, but it is polite to tip a tour guide if you’re taking a guided tour.Day at Sea
A friendly reminder
Make the most of your day at sea by enjoying our Wi-Fi, beverage, and Specialty Dining Packages. These services are available at an additional costWhile at sea, indulge in some well-deserved relaxation before your next adventure. Unwind by the pool, pamper yourself at the spa, savor exquisite cuisine, or discover the unique venues on board. Your next incredible destination awaits.
Learn more about the shipDay at Sea Highlights
Busan, South Korea
It is Busan's premier trading port, adjacent to the Korean Straits and Japan, that makes it an international metropolis but its beautiful sea vistas that make it a charming place to unwind. Experience the serenity of Beomeo-sa Temple, climb the Busan Tower in Yongdusan Park and rejuvenate at Hushimchung Spa.
Travel Tips
1
Free shuttles are provided from the cruise terminal to the center of Busan, but walking around to the main sights on foot takes a while. Getting around in Busan is what you’d come to expect from a major city: buses, trains, and subways galore. The public transit in Busan is reliable and convenient for travelers to use. Of course, taxis are available in Busan, which you can hail from the street.2
Because the port is primarily a commercial one, there’s virtually no shopping near the cruise port. After being shuttled to the city center, you’ll be close to a true Korean mega-mall and some department store chains. Busan is world renowned for its local fish market, the Jagalchi Market, which is the largest market in Korea. Don’t miss out on fresh seafood to eat raw or cook right up.3
You’ll use the Korean won when you’re traveling on cruises to Busan, and you’ll find ATMs are popping up more and more in this part of South Korea. You can also exchange currency at a local bank. Tipping simply isn’t part of the culture in South Korea, so don’t worry about tipping your taxi driver, tour guide, or waitstaff at a restaurant while you’re here.Day at Sea
A friendly reminder
Make the most of your day at sea by enjoying our Wi-Fi, beverage, and Specialty Dining Packages. These services are available at an additional costWhile at sea, indulge in some well-deserved relaxation before your next adventure. Unwind by the pool, pamper yourself at the spa, savor exquisite cuisine, or discover the unique venues on board. Your next incredible destination awaits.
Learn more about the shipDay at Sea Highlights
Hakodate, Japan
A port city on the island of Hokkaido, Hakodate is best known for the spectacular views and the area's delicious, fresh seafood, sushi, squid, and ramen. From the top of the Mount Hakodate, you’ll enjoy a magnificent view of the city surrounded by the ocean. You can reach the summit by hiking trail, cable car, or auto. The former Goryōkaku Fort, Japan's first Western style fortress, is now used in as a public park and is a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing. The park also features the tall, white Goryōkaku Tower that offers a panoramic view of the park, including mainland Japan across the Tsugaru Strait on clear days. Hakodate is literally a town of hot springs, and it even offers steamy outdoor footbaths to pedestrians.
Travel Tips
1
Hop on the complimentary shuttle bus and get off at JR Hakodate Station to explore downtown Hakodate. There are also two tram lines running throughout Hakodate, and taxis are almost always available as well.2
There’s not a lot of shopping near the port, so you’re better off heading out to get lunch or fresh local seafood from Morning Market. JR Hakodate Station and its neighboring shops are a short bus ride away.3
Tipping isn’t a must while you’re on your cruise to Hakodate, Japan. If anything, tipping your waiter or taxi driver could be misinterpreted as impolite, so it’s best not to tip. If you feel you’ve had an exceptional tour guide, you can ask them if they feel comfortable receiving a tip. Use cash when you can. The official currency is called the yen, and many smaller, local establishments won’t take credit cards.Aomori, Japan
Aomori Port, the capital of Aomori prefecture, is located on Mutsu Bay, at the northern tip of Honshu. Here, nature and culture fuse as one. The Shirakami Mountains, which embrace the world's largest virgin forest of beech trees, have been awarded a World Heritage Site designation. Reminders of ancient times abound throughout Aomori Port as well, and you can also indulge in the serene atmosphere of the Sannai-Maruyama Ruins, Japan's largest, which are said to have been established around 4,000 to 5,000 BC. The summer brings the city’s most beloved Nebuta Matsuri Festival, which features enormous lantern floats, taiko drums, and dancers that parade the downtown streets. Stroll Aomori’s premiere Shinsen Ichiba seafood market where restaurateurs hand-pick fresh produce then slurp up delicious ramen noodles at one of its counter restaurants.
Travel Tips
1
The central location of the Aomori port makes it fairly easy to access multiple modes of transportation. You can hail a taxi from the cruise port or walk to the bus station from the dock, which is about a five-minute trek. The city’s train station is a 20-minute walk from where your cruise ship will dock.2
The Aomori A-FACTORY is a popular farmers market chock-full of locally sourced ingredients, produce, vegetables, and artisanal goods. It’s located a short walk from the Aomori station. Auga Department Store & Fish Market is also a distinctly Aomori spot, where you can buy the area’s famously fresh fish and dried goods like seaweed and dried fish. Pick up snacks while you’re seeing the sights across town.3
Use the yen when you’re traveling through Japan. Tipping isn’t a common part of the culture here, so it’s not usually necessary to tip your taxi driver or server. In fact, in Japan tipping may even be considered rude to some. While you’re on cruises to Aomori, note that carrying cash is important in Japan and can help make your trip easier in getting from point A to point B. Japan is still considered a cash-centric society in some aspects, and carrying cash is a sign of respect for their traditions.4
TEST CONTENT – please ignore. Ramen lovers should try Aomori's local specialty, miso curry milk ramen: a rich miso broth with a touch of curry, finished with milk and butter. For a lighter bowl, look for Tsugaru-style niboshi ramen, made with a broth of dried sardines. Many small ramen shops sit near Aomori Station, an easy walk from the cruise terminal.Day at Sea
A friendly reminder
Make the most of your day at sea by enjoying our Wi-Fi, beverage, and Specialty Dining Packages. These services are available at an additional costWhile at sea, indulge in some well-deserved relaxation before your next adventure. Unwind by the pool, pamper yourself at the spa, savor exquisite cuisine, or discover the unique venues on board. Your next incredible destination awaits.
Learn more about the shipDay at Sea Highlights
Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan
Yokohama cruise. There aren't many places on Earth that blend ancient tradition and the ultra modern quite like Tokyo. Centuries-old gardens and cobblestone laneways live in perfect harmony with soaring skyscrapers and dazzling neon lights. Get immersed in an unrivalled dining scene, fashionable boutiques, and endless cultural encounters in this ever-evolving city.
Celebrity Solstice
Welcome to the Renewed Celebrity Solstice. Your happy place is about to make you even happier, because we’re introducing all-new experiences you’ve never seen before that make the classic ship you love completely new again. Renew your views with reinvented outdoor escapes that give you a whole new perspective on the world. Reignite date night with new restaurants and experiences that will bring you closer together than ever. Remix your routine with so many new things to do from day to night, you’ll wish it took longer to get there. And reimagine your stay with newly updated rooms and more ways to make yourself at home miles at sea.
Our new Sunset Park is your front‑row seat to the world, offering elevated eats, drinks, open‑air concerts, movies under the stars, and an expanded Sunset Bar. Trattoria Rossa brings back the golden age of dining, and Fine Cut Steakhouse turns up the signature sizzle. Plus, you’ll discover new hangouts, games, and live shows—from the interactive Boulevard Lounge to the first-of-its-kind game bar, The Parlor.
Your room is your home away from home, and we’ve given you an even more stylish stay on the Renewed Celebrity Solstice. We’ve updated every single room. On top of that, we’ve completely reimagined your stay at The Retreat, starting with suites so beautifully updated you’ll never want to leave them. Join us and discover why Nothing Comes Close to Celebrity Cruises. Ever.
Our new Sunset Park is your front‑row seat to the world, offering elevated eats, drinks, open‑air concerts, movies under the stars, and an expanded Sunset Bar. Trattoria Rossa brings back the golden age of dining, and Fine Cut Steakhouse turns up the signature sizzle. Plus, you’ll discover new hangouts, games, and live shows—from the interactive Boulevard Lounge to the first-of-its-kind game bar, The Parlor.
Your room is your home away from home, and we’ve given you an even more stylish stay on the Renewed Celebrity Solstice. We’ve updated every single room. On top of that, we’ve completely reimagined your stay at The Retreat, starting with suites so beautifully updated you’ll never want to leave them. Join us and discover why Nothing Comes Close to Celebrity Cruises. Ever.
Inaugural dateNov 23, 2008
Occupancy2852
Refurbish date2026