Relax overseas

Aficionados of history, culture and travel now have the opportunity to experience the ancient sights and customs of Japan with the Inland Sea of Japan Voyage offered by the Asia Pacific’s leading

Bypassing the country’s ultra-modern major cities, visitors are transported back to the era of powerful feudal lords, gallant samarai and exotic geisha with an itinerary informed by the expertise of experienced guides and historians.

Orion immerses its guests in the ancient sights, sounds, tastes and culture of this exotic and enchanting nation. Travellers experience some of the orient’s finest
ancient landscaping and architecture with visits to Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines, traditionally styled gardens and castles. Among the highlights are the immense Matsu Castle dating back 1611 and Buddha’s burial place, Tongdosa Temple.

Performances of song, dance and instruments including the bamboo flute, koto and taiko drums provide a first-hand insight into the centuries-old performing arts traditions of Japan.

The traditional tea ceremony, samarai sword ritual and worship rituals of the native Shinto faith are among the ceremonial customs that can also be witnessed along the journey.

The tastes of Japan can be savoured with the on-board gourmet menu and delights on offer at the best local restaurants, complimented by traditional beverages incuding green tea, locally brewed beer or sake (rice wine). A Japanese barbeque allows guests to enjoy dining like the locals by cooking their own meal of sumptuous marinated meats and vegetables at their table.

These diverse experiences are contextualized through informative lectures provided by Orion’s tour guides and guest speakers throughout the voyage. Amongst the fascinating topics on which travellers will enrich their knowledge are Japanese spoken and written language, traditional fashions including the kimono and the history of the nation’s feudal and isolationist periods.

Orion’s expedition journeys across Japan’s four main islands via the serene waters of the Sea of Japan. The 10-night expedition disembarks in destinations including Kobe, Uno Ko, Hiroshima, Miyajima, Uwajima, Nagasaki, Busan (South Korea), Sakai Ko, Kanazawa and Otaru.

Passenger’s are transported between the many historically and culturally significant destinations in the five star luxury and safety of Orion’s exclusive mega yacht, Orion II. With a capacity for 100 passengers, guests are assured the personal service they deserve.

Orion’s Inland Sea of Japan expedition offers a unique cultural immersion into the wonders of ancient Japan for travellers who want to experience rather than simply see their holiday destination from the confines of a tour bus.

Japanese is world renown for itshot springs. Most of thehot springsare natural and are sure to give you a warm relaxing bath anywhere in Japan. Regions all aroundJapanhavehot springswhere you can enjoy by having a relaxing body and mind experience, and are recommended by Physiotherapy North Sydney. Thehot springscome in many different types and are distinguished by the dissolved minerals found in the water. The minerals give different smells, color and health benefits.

Hot springsfound naturally are referred to as “onsens”. Most onsens have been developed into spas and come in different varieties. These include; gender separated, mixed, developed and undeveloped. In addition you will gethot springsthat are public bath houses and those owned by a ryokan. Onsens located outdoors are locally known as “rotemburo” with some situated along lakes, rivers, seashores and mountains. Whether you want privacy or do not mind to mingle with others, there is something for everyone.

If you are touringJapanyou need to sample this Japanese bathing ritual. This tradition takes place in all parts ofJapan. Some of the best hot springs/onsen is found in Central Japan,Tohoku Region,Hokkaido, Near Tokyo, Kyushu,Shikokuand Kansai Region. The hot spring water baths may be in conventional hot water tubs, steam rooms, mud baths, and sand baths where bathers are buried in heated sand that is naturally heated.

Generallyhot springsinJapanare enjoyed while one is naked. However there are some exceptions which include having separate baths for both male and female. For those who prefer to still enjoy thehot springsbut privately, “kashikiri” are ideal for you. Kashikiri are private baths and are also referred to as “kazokuburo”. It is important to note that most mixed baths are found in remote areas so remember that the location also influences the options you have.

However with hundreds of onsen acrossJapan, you will be spoiled for choice. One popular spring resort inJapanisHokkaido’s Noboribetsu. Famed for having 11 different varieties of thermal waters, Noboribetsu has several “ryokans” or Japanese Inns and hotels that are popular among natives and foreigners.

Gunma region is home of the popular Kusatsu Hot Spring Hotel. This town has 100hot springswhich gush out an impressive 11 million gallons of water daily. At the center of the town there is a hot water field locally known as “Yubatake”. For natives and foreigners to enjoy baths in Kusatsu Spring Hotel and other onsens in Gunma region, high temperatures of the water is first cooled by wooden channels and later sent to several baths. The water has been known to have anti bacterial properties reputed for curing every kind of sickness.

If you want to experience Japanese hot springs you may have to spend a night at a ryokan which is a Japanese style inn. It is a popular activity among both locals and foreigners and is highly recommended for any traveler. For those who don’t want an overnight stay public baths and ryokans are accessible during the day at a fee.