Odyssey in the heart of Japan’s subtropical islands

Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.

 

Day 1 - Hong Kong

 

Meet at Hong Kong Airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).

 

You will be driven to the Regent Hong Kong 5* hotel.

 

Afternoon and dinner at leisure.

 

Overnight at the hotel.

 

Day 2 - Hong Kong

 

Breakfast and check-out.

 

You will start your day by discovering the essence of well-being and serenity with Tai Chi, a subtle and ancient martial art rooted in Taoist philosophy: legend has it that it was created by Zhang Sanfeng, a Taoist monk from Mount Wudang in the 13th Century. Each movement will bring you closer to ancient wisdom and ultimate tranquility.

 

Then, you will continue with a visit to Nan Lian Garden. Nestled in the Diamond Hill district, this traditional Chinese garden offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. You will stroll along paved pathways lined with beautiful bonsai trees, lotus ponds and picturesque waterfalls while the soothing sounds of nature envelop you in an atmosphere of calm and serenity.

 

Lunch will be served in a local restaurant.

 

After lunch, you will proceed to the majestic Chi Lin Nunnery, a gem of architecture inspired by the Tang dynasty. You will wander through its beautifully landscaped gardens, where tranquil ponds, sculptural bonsai trees, and delicate flowers create a visual symphony of colors and shapes.

 

You will then be taken to Mei Ho House, an iconic landmark of urban development and social history in Hong Kong. This complex, once public housing for residents affected by a fire in 1953, has been beautifully restored to preserve its old-world charm while incorporating modern amenities.

  

You will then be transferred to the pier of Hong Kong to embark on board your ship.

 

Your hotel:

 

The Regent Hong Kong is an iconic hotel situated in the heart of Hong Kong, renowned for its refined luxury and exceptional hospitality. Located in the prestigious district of Tsim Sha Tsui, it offers direct access to the waterfront of Victoria Harbour and numerous major attractions. The hotel features a range of sumptuous rooms, elegantly decorated and equipped with the latest technologies. Staying at the Regent Hong Kong guarantees an unforgettable experience, blending the charm of Asian hospitality with the demands of international luxury in a spectacular setting overlooking one of the world's most famous harbors.

 

Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.

 

Your programme includes:

 

·        1-night accommodation in Deluxe room at Regent Hong Kong 5* hotel (local standard) or similar, breakfast included.

·        Meals as mentioned in the programme.

·        Beverage package during meals (mineral water + a glass of local alcohol).

·        Transfers, visits, and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.

·        The services of a local English-speaking guide.

 

Your programme does not include:

 

·        Dinner on day 1.

·        Personal expenses.

·        Visa if necessary.

·        Tips for the driver and local guide.

·        Early check-in and late check-out.

·        Other services not mentioned in the programme.

 

Please note:

 

·        A minimum number of participants is required in order to operate. Rate and itinerary may be subject to change based on the final number of participants. Should the minimum required number not be obtained, an alternative option may be offered.

·        If you selected a different flight than the flight selected by PONANT: it is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.

·        Official hotel check-in time is 3:00 p.m.

·        Official hotel check-out time is 11:00 a.m.

·        Early check-in or late check-out might be available depending on availability and on a supplement basis.

·        This programme is not suitable for people with reduced mobility.

·        During the programme, we recommend wearing discreet and lightweight clothing covering the upper body and legs below the knees and sun protection.

·        Baggage allowance: 1 piece of baggage with a maximum of weight of 20 kg for the regular flight. We have included 3 extra kg, so you are allowed to check-in 1 piece of baggage of a maximum weight of 23 kg. Hand baggage: 1 piece with a maximum weight of 10 kg for which we have included 2 extra kg, so you are allowed to take a hand baggage of a maximum weight of 12 kg, and the sum of three dimensions shall not exceed 115 cm (45in) (55 x 40 x 25 cm) or (22 x 16 x 10 inches).

·        Kindly note that a minimum number of participants is required for this trip to proceed. As a result, both the price and itinerary may be adjusted based on the final number of participants. Should the minimum number not be met, we will offer you an alternative arrangement.

Contact of your hotel:

 

Regent Hong Kong

18 Salisbury Road, Kowloon

Hong Kong SAR

China
Telephone number: (852) 2721 2111

 

Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.

 

Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.

Day 1 - Naha

After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local representative.

First, you will visit Okinawa Prefectural Peace Memorial Museum located at Okinawa Peace Memorial Park. It is the largest war memorial in Okinawa. The images of war and model exhibits constitute an appeal for everlasting peace. The museum exhibits are divided up into five separate areas that cover the history of Okinawa leading up to WWII. After your time at the museum, you will have some time at the park. At Okinawa Peace Memorial Park, you will see Heiwano Ishiji. Heiwa no Ishiji means "cornerstone of peace". This monument was erected not only to remember those who were killed in the wars, but also for those who sincerely wish for a lasting peace as a result of the war.

Lunch will be served at a local restaurant.

Then, on to Shuri Castle ruins. Shuri Castle shows the strong influence of Chinese architecture because the Ryukyu Kingdom was a vassal state of China. Ryukyu was a small kingdom, including Okinawa, in vassalage to both Japan and China. The castle was a unique mixture of Japanese and Chinese architectural styles. Nineteen structures stood within its walls. It was the residence of the king and the seat of local government until 1879, when Okinawa was made a prefecture of Japan. Unfortunately, the main castle building rebuilt in 1992 has been burned down in 2019 due to fire. The underground castle ruin which is designated as a part of world heritage, and the castle gate survived the fire.

You will then have some time at Kokusaidori street. Kokusaidori, which literally translates "International Road", is the main street of Naha which is approximately two kilometres long. On Kokusaidori, you will find numerous cafes, bars, souvenir shops, and boutiques. Enjoy some free time for shopping if time permits.

You will then check-in to the hotel selected by PONANT.

After a short break, you will be transfered to a local restaurant for dinner.

Overnight at the hotel.

Day 2 - Naha

After breakfast and check-out, time at leisure depending on your flight schedule.

You will then be transferred to the airport in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).

Your programme includes:

·        1-night accommodation in Standard room at the hotel selected by PONANT, local standard (or similar), breakfast included.

·        Meals as mentioned in the programme.

·        Beverages package during meals (mineral water + a glass of local alcohol + a Japanese tea or coffee).

·        Transfers, visits, and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.

·        The services of a local English-speaking guide.

Your programme does not include:

·        Personal expenses.

·        Visa costs, if necessary.

·        Tips for the driver and local guide.

·        Late check out according to your flight schedule.

·        Other services not mentioned in the programme.

Please note:

·        A minimum number of participants is required in order to operate. Rate and itinerary may be subject to change based on the final number of participants. Should the minimum required number not be obtained, an alternative option may be offered.

·        It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.

·        Official hotel check-in time is 3:00 p.m. 

·        Official hotel check-out time is 11:00 a.m.

·        Early check-in or late check-out might be available depending on availability and on a supplement basis.

·        The main building of Shuri Castle is currently undergoing reconstruction following a fire in 2019. Your visit will still allow you to admire Ryukyu architecture and immerse yourself in its culture.

·        The local currency is the yen. We recommend that you bring the amount of money you will need for the trip, or you can use your credit card to withdraw yen from the cash machines (note that only Japan Post Bank & Seven Eleven machines accept foreign credit cards).

·        Baggage allowance: 1 piece of baggage with a maximum weight of 20 kg for the regular flight. We have included 3 extra kg, so you are allowed to check-in 1 piece of baggage with a maximum weight of 23 kg. Hand baggage: 1 piece with a maximum weight of 10 kg for which we have included 2 extra kg, so you are allowed to take a hand baggage of a maximum weight of 12 kg, and the sum of three dimensions shall not exceed 115 cm (45in) (55 x 40 x 25 cm) or (22 x 16 x 10 inches).

Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.