170 ASIA: REPORT Guests dine on fresh seafood in Maizuru or visit Chirimen Kaido in Kyoto Prefecture to learn about Japan’s silk crepe industry A journey through the Sea of Japan Otaru, Akita, Toyama and Kyoto-Maizuru are essential ports of call for any luxury cruise line sailing along the western coast of Japan. Rebecca Gibson reports Sailing along the Sea of Japan coast to the ports of Otaru, Toyama, Akita and Kyoto-Maizuru enables luxury cruise lines to offer guests an insight into Japan’s history, gastronomy, arts and crafts traditions, and its natural beauty. In Otaru, for example, they can tour old herring mansions built by wealthy merchants, walk along the canal, visit Otaru Art Base to learn about Japanese crafts and international art, or try local sushi, sake, wine and dashi on the famous Sushiya Dori (Sushi Street). Meanwhile in Akita Prefecture, they can learn about local Oga namahage folklore traditions and visit the Shirakami-Sanchi mountains, onsens and Kakunodate, a former castle town and samurai stronghold. Plus, they can sample cuisine and sake made from locally grown rice. Similarly, cruise guests can try local sushi made with freshly caught seafood from Toyama Bay during a call in Toyama Prefecture. The biodiverse bay’s unique environment means it is a ‘natural fish tank’ with over 500 species of marine life. Elsewhere in Toyama, tourists can discover centuries-old craft traditions by watching master wood carvers in Inami, participating in metal casting workshops in Takaoka City, or making washi paper with locals living in traditional gassho-zukuri houses in the villages of Gokayama, a Unesco World Heritage site. They can also traverse the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, a part of Chubusangaku National Park. Kyoto Prefecture also offers an abundance of attractions for cruise guests. Ships berth at Maizuru Port close to the city of Maizuru where they can see the Goro Sky Tower, Kongo-in Temple and the ruins of Tanabe Castle, or taste fresh seafood and local speciality, Uji green tea. Alternatively, guests can take a bus to Kyoto – Japan’s former imperial capital – which has over 2,000 shrines and temples, as well as 17 Unesco World Heritage sites. Other highlights in Kyoto Prefecture include the silk factories in Chirimen Kaido, the old wooden boat houses in Ine Bay, and Amanohashidate, a pine treecovered sandbar with temples, shrines, cafes and swimming spots. This article is part of an exclusive four-part series showcasing the varied itinerary options for luxury cruises in Japan. Read more at: bit.ly/4azPIRN
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