Japan by Rail & Sea

Fly overnight to the lively, fast-paced city of Osaka. On arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel in Kyoto, where the rest of the day is yours to relax or begin exploring.

Spend the day discovering the treasures of the timeless city of Kyoto, Japan's ancient capital. You'll begin at the enchanting Kinkaku-ji, also known as the 'Golden Pavilion', before contemplating the famous Zen Garden at Ryoan-ji, the 'temple of the peaceful dragon'. Later, explore the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and Togetsukyo Bridge.

Climb the forested slopes of Fushimi Inari Shrine, passing through the many vermilion red torii gates. Transfer to Kyoto's station for a quintessential Japanese experience – a ride on a bullet train, that will whisk you off to Hiroshima. This afternoon, you'll visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and the Atomic Bomb Dome, the only structure left standing in the city after the events of 6 August 1945.

Board a ferry for a short cruise across the Seto Inland Sea to Miyajima Island to visit its famous shrine, Itsukushima. Here you'll see the picturesque giant torii gate which, at high tide, seems to float on water. There will also be some free time to browse the little shops of Miyajima Omotesando.

Hop on a bullet train bound for Okayama where you'll spend the day exploring. Visit the lovely Kibitsu Shine, Okayama Castle, or 'Crow Castle' because of its striking black exterior, and Korakuen, one of Japan's Three Great Gardens, to walk through the picturesque traditional landscaping. Back on a bullet train, travel to the city of Nagoya.

Begin the day at Nagoya Castle where you can admire the armour collections of a number of influential clans, then stroll through the tranquil Tokugawa Garden. Walk along the vibrant Osu Shopping Street with its shops and street food stalls and discover Noritake Garden, a former porcelain factory, that now features a museum and shops amongst lush greenery. Later, board a bullet train to Tokyo.

Spend the day exploring Japan's dazzling capital city. First, you'll visit Senso-ji, Tokyo's oldest Buddhist Temple, and walk down Nakamise Shopping Street browsing the souvenirs and delicious local snacks. Then ascend to the heady heights of the Tokyo Skytree for panoramic views over the city. Lunch today is extra special, as you'll be making your own! Enjoy a sushi making class before dining on your creations. This afternoon, see the Imperial Palace and Meiji Jingu Shrine, and walk along Takeshita Street to taste some local treats. There will also be a photo stop at the famous Shibuya Crossing.

After breakfast you will be transferred to Yokohama cruise terminal to board your cruise. The rest of the day is free to explore the ship's facilities and settle in. Throughout your cruise, when your ship comes into port, there will be a range of excursions available to help you explore each destination. These excursions are at your own expense and are bookable on your cruise reservation.

Spend the day getting to know the Celebrity Millennium and all the plentiful ways you can be active or relax onboard as you cruise across along South Korea's coastline.

Arrive in Osaka, the closest port to Kyoto. Spend the day exploring among ancient architecture, soaking up a rich, age-old culture or sampling some of the city's culinary delights.

Spend a second day at port in Osaka, making the most of the excellent range of facilities onboard your cruise ship or continuing your explorations of Kyoto.

Port at Kochi. A surfer hangout with a UNESCO Global Geopark coastline, plentiful great outdoors and bags of rustic charm, Kochi is a wonderful place to while away a day.

Relax onboard your way – sitting by the pool, enjoying the bars and restaurants, or taking part in a sport or activity.

Hello, South Korea! Port at the bustling city of Busan. Boasting mountains, beaches, and hot springs, this is a city full of small-town charm.

Head back to Japan, porting at Nagasaki. Like Hiroshima, Nagasaki is best known for the events of the 9th of August 1945 but there is so much more to it. Backed by rolling hills and forested islands, with unspoilt beaches, European-style architecture, and ancient roots, it is a delight to explore.

Arrive at Kagoshima, a city at the southern tip of the island of Kyushu. Watched over by the active Sakurajima volcano and rich in history and delicious food, and surrounded by glorious nature, there is plenty to discover here.

Make the most of your cruise ship facilities today – you could relax by the pool, try out the restaurants and bars, and enjoy the range of activities and shows.

Port at Shimizu, a city of medieval castle ruins, ancient pine groves and traditional gardens. Here, you are ideally located for viewing Mount Fuji (weather dependent) or exploring the series of fascinating cultural sights around its base.

Arrive back in Yokohama. Today you are free to enjoy a final day on the cruise ship, or head out to explore Tokyo or the surrounding area on an excursion.

Bid farewell to the Celebrity Millenium. Met by a guide, you will be transferred to your hotel in Tokyo, where the rest of the day will be at leisure before a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

Fly to New Zealand, arriving home the same or the following day.