Hafen
Kobe

OVERVIEW

Osaka shines as one of Japan's most modern cities, yet it holds its past dear, as you'll discover by touring the Osaka Castle. Depart from the pier and enjoy a nearly 1-hour drive to the impressive Osaka Castle, which was first built in 1583 and now serves as the symbol for the city. Although the original castle was destroyed over the years, many of the key features of the complex still remain, including turrets and sections of the walls that border the surrounding moat. The existing version of the castle itself was built in 1931 to replicate the original. The steep, stone walls at its base are particularly noteworthy, as they rise nearly 100 feet, an architectural rarity in Japan.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

This half-day tour takes you to the outskirts of Kobe to scenic Mt. Rokko, for stunning views of Osaka Bay. You’ll also visit the Sake Brewery Museum, to learn about the tradition of sake making, which has been carried down through the ages.

Opened to the public by Arthur Groom in 1901, Mt. Rokko quickly became a popular retreat for foreigners. Today, Mt. Rokko is the centerpiece of a popular sightseeing and hiking area stretching over six miles. With an elevation of 3,000 feet, it is the highest peak in the mountain range that spreads 19 miles from the northeast to southwest.

A scenic drive takes you to Mt. Rokko, where you’ll reach the observatory at the summit via a funicular. From this vantage point, enjoy stunning views of Osaka Bay and the distant Awaji Island in the easternmost part of the Inland Sea.

Departing Mt. Rokko, drive to the Sake Brewery Museum. Designated an Important Tangible National Cultural Property, the museum was opened in 1978 on the site of an old brewery. Known for growing the best rice for sake production and its pure underground water, the region manufactures some of the most famous brands of sake in Japan. This old warehouse, converted to a museum, offers a realistic atmosphere. You’ll learn about the different stages and methods of the sake production. In the tasting area, you can try freshly pressed, unpasteurized sake, which cannot be found anywhere else. You can find Hakutsuru Sake products as well as original museum goods in their shop.

This half-day tour takes you to the outskirts of Kobe to scenic Mt. Rokko, for stunning views of Osaka Bay. You’ll also visit the Sake Brewery Museum, to learn about the tradition of sake making, which has been carried down through the ages.

Opened to the public by Arthur Groom in 1901, Mt. Rokko quickly became a popular retreat for foreigners. Today, Mt. Rokko is the centerpiece of a popular sightseeing and hiking area stretching over six miles. With an elevation of 3,000 feet, it is the highest peak in the mountain range that spreads 19 miles from the northeast to southwest.

A scenic drive takes you to Mt. Rokko, where you’ll reach the observatory at the summit via a funicular. From this vantage point, enjoy stunning views of Osaka Bay and the distant Awaji Island in the easternmost part of the Inland Sea.

Departing Mt. Rokko, drive to the Sake Brewery Museum. Designated an Important Tangible National Cultural Property, the museum was opened in 1978 on the site of an old brewery. Known for growing the best rice for sake production and its pure underground water, the region manufactures some of the most famous brands of sake in Japan. This old warehouse, converted to a museum, offers a realistic atmosphere. You’ll learn about the different stages and methods of the sake production. In the tasting area, you can try freshly pressed, unpasteurized sake, which cannot be found anywhere else. You can find Hakutsuru Sake products as well as original museum goods in their shop.

Explore Japan's third largest city, Osaka, on this intriguing half-day tour. One of the gateways to ancient Japan for traders from China, Korea and the Asian continent, Osaka played a vital role in the introduction of new technologies in ceramics, forging, construction, and engineering. Today, this modern port city combines historical and cultural attractions with all the delights of a Japanese urban marvel.

Following a nearly 1-hour drive from Kobe to Osaka, the impressive landmark of Osaka Castle comes into view. One of Japan's most famous castles, it played a major role in the unification of Japan during the 16th century. Built on a plot of land almost one mile square, the castle compound contains thirteen structures, designated as Important Cultural Assets by the Japanese government. The central castle building is five stories on the outside and eight stories on the inside, built atop a massive stone foundation that protected its occupants from sword-bearing attackers. Of particular interest are the tower's ornamental ride-end roof tiles, and bas-reliefs carved in the shape of crouching tigers, all gilded with gold. An engaging museum occupies the interior of the building, tracing the history of the castle from the late 1500s to the present day, and housing Osaka's most significant historical and cultural artifacts.

Visit Japan's oldest Buddhist temple, Shitennoji. Built in the late sixth century by Prince Shotoku, the temple grounds contain a five-story pagoda and a treasure house containing ornate mandalas and several massive wooden Buddha statues. Despite repeated reconstructions, the layout of the temple compound remains largely unchanged from its beginnings.

Visit two iconic landmarks in Osaka that represent vastly different time periods: a classic 16th-century castle and a modern high rise made of steel and glass.

Enjoy a scenic drive around the bay and through the urban landscape that connects Kobe and Osaka. Stop for photos of Osaka Castle, an imposing fortress at the edge of a lush park with more than 1,200 trees. Built in the late 16th century, magnificent Osaka Castle consists of 13 structures that include gates, moats and gunpowder storehouses. The nine-story dungeon at its center is adorned with golden sea creature ornaments and is so distinctive that the government has designated the castle an Important Cultural Asset and the cherished symbol of Osaka.

During your visit of the castle's exterior, you will learn about the castle's construction, particularly its massive stone wall. According to legend, the stones were carried there from all over Japan to display loyalty to hegemon Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who built the castle.

For a modern perspective of the city, you will ascend to the observation deck of towering Umeda Sky Building. Completed in 1993, the twin-tower high rise offers a stunning, 360-degree view of Osaka and beyond to Awaji Island. Nearly 3 million people live in Osaka, so you can imagine the urban sprawl nearly as far as you can see.

Discover the scenic splendour of Kobe during this picturesque, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Kobe, Mt. Rokko, Garden Terrace, Breath-Taking Panoramic Views, Osaka Bay, Gift Shoppe

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 30-minute drive to beautiful Mt. Rokko. Located in southern Hyogo on the northern coast of Osaka Bay, the approximately 3,000-foot (about 914-metre) Mt. Rokko is the highest peak in the Rokko mountain range, and equipped with a variety of leisure and sporting activities. Upon arrival, drive to the top of the mountain for a stop at the Mt. Rokko Garden Terrace. From here, take in spectacular panoramic vistas of Kobe's Osaka Bay and, on clear days, the Inland Sea. Before you leave, you can browse the gift shoppe for a memento of your visit.

Japanese-Style Sorakuen Garden

Next, re-board your coach and head to the Sorakuen Garden, which features a traditional Japanese landscape and has been designated as a ‘place of serene beauty’. Completed in the early-20th century, the garden used to be part of the residence of Kodera Kenkichi, the former mayor of Kobe, and has been open to the public since 1941.

Japanese Sake Museum

Next, re-board your coach and continue on to the Japanese Sake Museum. Upon arrival, take a guided tour of Sake Museum, which is populated by life-size dioramas depicting the various steps involved in sake production. Along the way, learn about the centuries-old history of sake, observe its production process, view short films and videos, and sample fine quality sake made from the pure water running through the Rokko Mountains.

At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach for a 30-minute transfer back to the ship.

Experience UNESCO World Heritage Sites and Japanese traditions during this scenic, full-day sightseeing excursion to Kyoto via bullet-train with lunch.

Kobe, Shin-Kobe Station, Bullet-Train to Kyoto

Depart the pier for the short drive to the Shin-Kobe Station. Upon arrival, board the high-speed Shinkansen bullet-train for the short ride to historic Kyoto. Once the ancient capital of Japan, Kyoto is a sophisticated city on the island of Honshu with thousands of classical Buddhist temples. It is also home to many gardens, Shinto shrines, palaces, and traditional wooden houses, a number of which have been designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Upon arrival at Kyoto Station, board a coach and transfer to the spectacular Nijo Castle.

Nijo Castle, Chinese Gate, Ninomaru Palace & Garden

The Nijo Castle is a fortification of cypress wood built in 1603 as the residence of Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu. The Hon-maru (Main Court) burned down in 1788. The only original part remaining is the Ninomaru (Second Court). The present 'Hon-maru', built in 1827, is a replica of the one that originally stood on the grounds of the Kyoto Imperial Palace. The castle, an UNESCO World Heritage Site, is protected by a moat, stone walls, and ingenious nightingale floors, which chirp like a bird when walked upon to alert the guards of potential intruders. It is also renowned for its many cultural treasures dating from the 16th-century Momoyama Era, including the Karamon (Chinese Gate) and Ninomaru Palace & Garden.  

Traditional Tearoom, Tatami Floor, Tea Ceremony, Freshly-Brewed Green Tea, Japanese Lunch

Next, re-board your coach and head for a tea ceremony venue. Upon arrival, enjoy an opportunity to experience an authentic tea ceremony, a Japanese tradition steeped in history. It is a ceremonial way of preparing and drinking green tea in a traditional tearoom with a tatami floor. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the art of the tea ceremony accompanied by a cup of freshly-brewed green tea. Following the tea ceremony, re-board your coach and proceed to a local restaurant for a Japanese, set-menu lunch.

Golden Pavilion

After lunch, re-board your coach and transfer to the Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion) for an exterior visit. Built as a villa during the Muromachi Period in 1397, this UNESCO World Heritage Site was later converted into a temple. The temple burned down in 1950 and was rebuilt in 1955. It is approximately 41 feet (about 12.5 metres) in height, and the second-and-third storeys are covered with approximately two tons (about 1.8 metric tons) of pure gold foil. The mirror reflection on the still pond in the garden is a marvellous site to behold. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately two-hour drive back to the pier.

Explore the most beautiful feudal castle in Japan and its beautiful, adjacent garden during this picturesque, half-day sightseeing excursion to Himeji.

Kobe, Himeji Castle, Huge, Central Pillars, Castle Top, Spectacular Views

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 1.5-hour drive to the Himeji Castle, an UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Himeji Castle’s white appearance is nicknamed Shirasagi-jo (white heron). The castle features huge, central pillars to support, and it remains a mystery how they were able to build it in ancient times. Upon arrival, take a guided walking tour of the Himeji Castle. Ascending the 110 steps required to access the top of the Himeji Castle is rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of its surrounds.

Kokoen Garden, Nine Separate Gardens, Blooming Flowers

Following your tour of the Himeji Castle, proceed on-foot to the adjacent Kokoen Garden. This expansive garden complex is nestled on the former site of the feudal lord's residence, and consists of nine separate gardens. Many kinds of flowers bloom throughout the year at the Kokoen Garden. Following your guided visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 1.5-hour drive back to the pier.

Experience the unique culture and flavours of Kobe during this immersive, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Kobe, Nada District, Sake Brewery, Guided Tour & Tasting, Exhibition Hall, Shopping

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 30-minute drive to the Nada District, Japan's top sake-producing region. Upon arrival, head to one of the best sake breweries in Kobe for a guided tour and sake tasting. Sake means ‘alcohol’ in Japanese, but also refers to a local speciality made from fermented rice. Rice-sake is called Nihonshu (Japanese sake). The popularity of sake extends far beyond Japan, and it can be found at countless Asian restaurants and bars around the world. Many sake breweries operating in the Nada District offer a guided tour and tasting of their brand. Following your tour and sake tasting, you can browse the brewery’s Exhibition Hall, where you may opt to purchase your favourite bottle or souvenir.

World-Famous Kobe Beef Lunch

Next, re-board your coach and transfer for a Teppanyaki lunch at a local restaurant. Upon arrival, enjoy an opportunity to taste the world-famous Kobe beef. This prized beef is renowned for its mouth-watering flavour, tenderness, and high amount of intramuscular fat, giving it its signature marbled appearance. Kobe cows are given beer to induce their appetite, and massaged daily to increase their physical and mental wellness. After a delicious Kobe beef lunch, re-board your coach and commence the short drive back to the pier.

Discover the splendid beauty and landmarks of bustling Kyoto at your leisure during this full-day, self-guided sightseeing excursion.

Osaka, Kyoto Station & City, Self-Guided Visit, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, National Treasures

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately two-hour drive to Kyoto Station. Upon arrival, your guide gives you a map of Kyoto with instructions about how to explore Kyoto City on-foot. Afterward, depart Kyoto Station and begin your self-guided tour of the city. From dazzling temples and graceful geishas to colourful shops and exotic delicacies, Japan's seventh-largest city offers something for everyone. Spectacular, must-see venues to explore during your visit include a host of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as the Nijo Castle, Golden Pavilion, and Kinkaku-ji, Kiyomizu-dera and Byodo-in temples. Two other temples, Kiyomizu and Sanjusangendo, are both designated as National Treasures.

Fushimi Inari Shrine, Machiya, Gion Geisha & Arashiyama Districts, Parks & Botanical Gardens

For a look at traditional Kyoto, visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine with its 10,000 red-painted Torii Gates, a machiya, or traditional wooden townhouse, or Hanamikoji Street in the Gion Geisha District, with its traditional wooden merchants houses and teahouses. If you enjoy the outdoors, Kyoto has some beautiful parks to explore, including the picturesque Arashiyama Park & Bamboo Forest, Kodaiji Park, Kyoto Imperial Palace Park, and the Kyoto Botanical Gardens.

Kiyomizu-Zaka & Shijo Streets, Kawaramachi, Kyoto Handicraft Centre, Arashiyama, Nishiki Market

Endless options abound when it comes to shopping and dining in Kyoto. Browse Kiyomizu-Zaka Street, which is filled with shoppers searching for Japanese handicrafts and souvenirs, Shijo Street, Kawaramachi-area department stores, the Kyoto Handicraft Centre, Arashiyama District, and Nishiki Market. Korean street food vendors and restaurants can be found at virtually every turn in Kyoto, and offer a wonderful selection of sumptuous street food and local specialities. At the conclusion of your self-guided visit, re-board your coach at Kyoto Station and commence the approximately two-hour drive back to the pier.

Explore a trio of spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Sites during this captivating, full-day sightseeing excursion with lunch.

Kobe, Nara, Todaiji Temple, Great Buddha Image, Free-Roaming Deer

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 1.5-hour drive to the Todaiji Temple. The temple is famous for its great copper image of Buddha, the symbol of Nara. With a height of approximately 59 feet (about 18 metres) from the ground, this Buddha image was the largest in the world at the time of its completion in 752 A.D. The temple building itself is the largest existing wooden structure in the world. Reconstructed in the mid-Edo Period (1603-1867), it measures approximately 187 feet (about 57 metres) in width and approximately 157 feet (about 48 metres) in height. During your guided stroll through the temple, you may see many deer. They are considered messengers of the gods in the Shinto religion and are allowed to roam freely here.

Kasuga Taisha Shrine, 2,000 Stone Lanterns, Torii Gate, Colourful Halls, Japanese Lunch

Leaving the temple, your next stop is the Kasuga Taisha Shrine. Originally constructed in 768 A.D. by the Fujiwaras, a prominent feudal family, this shrine has been rebuilt over 50 times in accordance with Shinto custom to purify the site. More than 2,000 stone lanterns line the pathways, and are lit only three times a year on special festival days. Upon arrival, pass through the Torii Gate to experience the unique architectural style of the shrine, including the shape of the roof and brilliant vermilion and green halls. Following your visit, proceed to the nearby Hiraso restaurant for a Japanese, set-menu lunch. After lunch, re-board your coach and head to the Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s most famous castles.

Osaka Castle, Central Castle, Weapons, Armour, Artefacts, Interior Museum

The magnificent Osaka Castle was built in the late-16th century, on a plot of land almost one square mile (about 2.6 square kilometres). The central castle building is five storeys on the outside and eight storeys on the inside, and built atop a massive stone foundation that protected its occupants from sword-bearing attackers. The first seven floors of the castle display various weapons, armour, and artefacts. The eighth floor features splendid panoramic vistas of the castle’s surrounds. The castle’s interior museum houses its most significant historical and cultural artefacts from the late-1500s to present-day. Following your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 50-minute drive back to the pier.

Osaka Castle,

After collecting your luggage in the terminal, board your coach for a scenic 60-minute drive to see the impressive landmark, Osaka Castle. One of Japan's most famous castles, it played a major role in the unification of Japan during the 16th century. Built on a plot of land almost one square mile, the castle compound contains thirteen structures, designated as Important Cultural Assets by the Japanese government. The central castle building is five stories on the outside and eight stories on the inside, built atop a massive stone foundation that protected its occupants from sword-bearing attackers. Enjoy a guided walking tour and learn about the castle's various weapons, armor and artefacts of a bygone era which are displayed.

At the end of your visit transfer to Kansai International Airport (KIX).

Explore the highlights of Japan's third-largest city during this intriguing, full-day sightseeing excursion to Osaka.

Kobe, Osaka, Shitennoji Temple

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately one-hour drive to Osaka, Japan’s third-largest city. One of the gateways to ancient Japan for traders from China, Korea, and the Asian continent, Osaka played a vital role in the introduction of new technologies in ceramics, forging, construction, and engineering. Today, this modern port city combines historical and cultural attractions with all the delights of a Japanese urban marvel. Your first stop is at the Shitennoji Temple, which was constructed over 1,400 years ago to commemorate the victory of the war, and provide relief and settlement for the king. Today, the Shitennoji Temple remains one of the oldest architectural styles preserved today in Japan.

Osaka Castle 

Next, re-board your coach and head to the impressive Osaka Castle. One of Japan’s most famous castles, it played a major role in the unification of Japan during the 16th century. The Osaka Castle was built on a plot of land almost one square mile (about 2.6 square kilometres) in the late-16th century, only to be burned down in a series of 17th-century battles. It was later reconstructed, but its donjon was destroyed by fire once again. The castle's final reconstruction took place in the early-20th century. Upon arrival, take a guided walking tour. The castle compound contains thirteen structures, designated as Important Cultural Assets by the Japanese government.

Central Castle, Weapons, Armour, Artefacts, Gilded Roof Tiles & Bas Reliefs, Interior Museum

The central castle building is five storeys on the outside and eight storeys on the inside, built atop a massive stone foundation that protected its occupants from sword-bearing attackers. The first seven floors of the castle display various weapons, armour, and artefacts of a bygone era. The eighth floor features splendid panoramic vistas and photo opportunities of the castle’s surrounds. Of particular interest are the tower's ornamental ride-end roof tiles and bas reliefs carved in the shape of crouching tigers, all gilded with gold. An engaging museum occupies the interior of the building, traces the history of Osaka from the late-1500s to the present day, and houses Osaka's most significant historical and cultural artifacts.

Dotonbori District, Free Time, Lunch on Your Own

Leaving the Osaka Castle, proceed to Osaka’s city centre near the Dotonbori District. One of the symbols of Osaka and beloved by residents, Dotonbori is a dense area of restaurants and amusement spots located along the south bank of the Dotonbori Canal. Osaka is a food-lover's delight, and neon-lit Dotonbori offers hundreds of eateries. The area began as an entertainment district and still has Bunraku (puppet show) theatres, halls for Rakugo (comic story-telling) and, of course, movie theatres. The area is often featured in both domestic and foreign films, as it typifies the lively spirit of Osaka. After some free time here and lunch on your own, re-board your coach and commence the approximately one-hour drive back to the pier.

Explore the iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites and important cultural properties of Kyoto during this panoramic, full-day, Silver Shore Privato sightseeing tour via private car.

Kobe, Kyoto

Depart the pier with your driver and guide in a private, air-conditioned coach and begin your Silver Shore Privato tour with a scenic, approximately two-hour drive to historic Kyoto. Once the ancient capital of Japan, Kyoto is a sophisticated city on the island of Honshu with thousands of classical Buddhist temples. It is also home to many gardens, Shinto shrines, palaces, and traditional wooden houses, a number of which have been designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Heian Jingu Shrine

Upon arrival in Kyoto, explore the city and its surrounds at your own pace. Your first stop is at the Heian Jingu Shrine (Shrine of Peace). Designated an Important Cultural Property of Japan, it was built in 1895 to commemorate the 1,100th anniversary of the founding of Kyoto (Heian-Kyo capital). The Heian Shrine is dedicated to two emperors: Emperor Kammu, the first emperor to rule Kyoto, and Emperor Komei, the last emperor to live out his reign in the city. Following your visit, re-board your coach and head to the Nijo Castle.  

Nijo Castle, Chinese Gate, Ninomaru Palace & Garden

The Nijo Castle is a fortification of cypress wood built in 1603 as the residence of Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu. The Hon-maru (Main Court) burned down in 1788. The only original part remaining is the Ninomaru (Second Court). The present 'Hon-maru', built in 1827, is a replica of the one that originally stood on the grounds of the Kyoto Imperial Palace. The castle, an UNESCO World Heritage Site, is protected by a moat, stone walls, and ingenious nightingale floors, which chirp like a bird when walked upon to alert the guards of potential intruders. It is also renowned for its many cultural treasures dating from the 16th-century Momoyama Era, including the Karamon (Chinese Gate) and Ninomaru Palace & Garden.  

Local Restaurant, Japanese Lunch, Golden Pavilion

After a stop for a Japanese, set-menu lunch at a local restaurant, transfer to the Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion) for an exterior visit. Built as a villa during the Muromachi Period in 1397, this UNESCO World Heritage Site was later converted into a temple. The temple burned down in 1950 and was rebuilt in 1955. It is approximately 41 feet (about 12.5 metres) in height, and the second-and-third storeys are covered with approximately two tons (about 1.8 metric tons) of pure gold foil. The mirror reflection on the still pond in the garden is a marvellous site to behold. At the conclusion of your Silver Shore Privato excursion, re-board your private car and commence the approximately two-hour drive back to the pier.

Explore the iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites and important cultural properties of Kyoto during this panoramic, full-day, Silver Shore Privato sightseeing tour via private van.

Kobe, Kyoto

Depart the pier with your driver and guide in a private, air-conditioned van and begin your Silver Shore Privato tour with a scenic, approximately two-hour drive to historic Kyoto. Once the ancient capital of Japan, Kyoto is a sophisticated city on the island of Honshu with thousands of classical Buddhist temples. It is also home to many gardens, Shinto shrines, palaces, and traditional wooden houses, a number of which have been designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Heian Jingu Shrine

Upon arrival in Kyoto, explore the city and its surrounds at your own pace. Your first stop is at the Heian Jingu Shrine (Shrine of Peace). Designated an Important Cultural Property of Japan, it was built in 1895 to commemorate the 1,100th anniversary of the founding of Kyoto (Heian-Kyo capital). The Heian Shrine is dedicated to two emperors: Emperor Kammu, the first emperor to rule Kyoto, and Emperor Komei, the last emperor to live out his reign in the city. Following your visit, re-board your van and head to the Nijo Castle.  

Nijo Castle, Chinese Gate, Ninomaru Palace & Garden

The Nijo Castle is a fortification of cypress wood built in 1603 as the residence of Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu. The Hon-maru (Main Court) burned down in 1788. The only original part remaining is the Ninomaru (Second Court). The present 'Hon-maru', built in 1827, is a replica of the one that originally stood on the grounds of the Kyoto Imperial Palace. The castle, an UNESCO World Heritage Site, is protected by a moat, stone walls, and ingenious nightingale floors, which chirp like a bird when walked upon to alert the guards of potential intruders. It is also renowned for its many cultural treasures dating from the 16th-century Momoyama Era, including the Karamon (Chinese Gate) and Ninomaru Palace & Garden.  

Local Restaurant, Japanese Lunch, Golden Pavilion

After a stop for a Japanese, set-menu lunch at a local restaurant, transfer to the Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion) for an exterior visit. Built as a villa during the Muromachi Period in 1397, this UNESCO World Heritage Site was later converted into a temple. The temple burned down in 1950 and was rebuilt in 1955. It is approximately 41 feet (about 12.5 metres) in height, and the second-and-third storeys are covered with approximately two tons (about 1.8 metric tons) of pure gold foil. The mirror reflection on the still pond in the garden is a marvellous site to behold. At the conclusion of your Silver Shore Privato excursion, re-board your private van and commence the approximately two-hour drive back to the pier.

For those guests interested in touring Kyoto independently, we are pleased to provide this opportunity for a full day's discovery of the city and its surrounding areas at your leisure, in the comfort of your own private van. Enjoy the flexibility of creating your own itinerary in which to explore this fascinating region of Japan with friends and family, if you wish.

Your full-day outing includes an air-conditioned van with a driver and an English-speaking guide. Participation is limited for comfort to up to 2 guests per car. Price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party need reserve this program.

Spend a half day exploring Kobe at your leisure. In the comfort of your own private car, discover the city and its surrounding areas with a knowledgeable guide. Create your own itinerary, see sights at your own pace with friends and family if you wish, and learn about this fascinating part of Japan.

Your half-day outing includes an air-conditioned van with driver and an English-speaking guide. Participation is limited for comfort to up to 2 guests per car. Price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party need reserve this program.

For those guests interested in touring Kyoto independently, we are pleased to provide this opportunity for a full day's discovery of the city and its surrounding areas at your leisure, in the comfort of your own private van. Enjoy the flexibility of creating your own itinerary in which to explore this fascinating region of Japan with friends and family, if you wish.

Your full-day outing includes an air-conditioned van with a driver and an English-speaking guide. Participation is limited for comfort to up to 4 guests per van. Price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party need reserve this program.

Spend a half day exploring Kobe at your leisure. In the comfort of your own private van, discover the city and its surrounding areas with a knowledgeable guide. Create your own itinerary, see sights at your own pace with friends and family if you wish, and learn about this fascinating part of Japan.

Your half-day outing includes an air-conditioned van with driver and an English-speaking guide. Participation is limited for comfort to up to 4 guests per van. Price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party need reserve this program.

Savour a delicious Japanese Kobe beef dinner during this unforgettable, half-day epicurean excursion.

Kobe, Teppanyaki Restaurant

Depart the pier for the short drive to a renonwned Teppaniyaki restaurant. Kobe beef is one of several breeds of Wagyu which are bred throughout the country, and often associated with the area in which they are raised. The Wagyu served here is produced from pedigreed Tajima breed cattle which were born and slaughtered in the Hyogo Prefecture. Despite popular rumour, the cows here are not usually fed beer or massaged with sake. Once slaughtered, the meat must pass a series of requirements and only the highest grades of meat with exceptionally high levels of fat marbling earn the Kobe Beef label, which is a strictly-guarded trademark.

Teppanyaki-Style, Kobe Beef Dinner

Kobe beef is world-renowned for its mouth-watering flavour, tenderness, and high amount of intramuscular fat, giving the meat its marbled appearance. Kobe beef is one of the most popular regional speciality foods in Japan, and one of the best ways to enjoy it is Teppanyaki-style, where the food is freshly-prepared in front of you and served on heated iron plates. Upon arrival at the Kobe Beef restaurant, you are welcomed and seated for your Teppanyaki-style, Kobe beef dinner. After this delightful repast, re-board your coach and commence the short drive back to the pier.