Melo Villareal
Day 5: Arrival in Sakaiminato Port in Matsue, Japan
Previous Post: Arrival in Kanazawa Port, Japan
The ship gently docked at Sakaiminato Port shortly after 9am, with the morning sun casting a warm glow over the harbor. As the vessel came to a complete stop, the familiar bustling activity of crew members preparing for disembarkation began. Just like the previous day, the tour participants slowly assembled in the spacious, well-lit lobby on the 5th floor of the cruise ship. The lounge was filled with a mixture of anticipation and excitement as everyone gathered together, ready to begin their day’s adventure after disembarking the ship.
Matsue Castle near Sakaiminato Port
Our first stop was the beautiful Matsue Castle. This castle is one of Japan’s five natural treasures and one of the 12 remaining original castles in the country. One of the oldest surviving castles in Japan, Matsue is called the “plover”. According to our guide, there were many beautiful castles in Japan, but most did not survive fires, earthquakes, and the anti-feudal demolitions of the Meiji Period. Matsue Castle is also called the “Black Castle” because of its darkly colored austere exterior.
The entire castle complex was protected by a towering moat and surrounded by a manmade river, which is now offered to tourists who want a short cruise around the castle. The castle is also dotted with many food stalls and souvenir shops.
After a long walk from the castle, we proceeded to the Matsue History Museum to learn how to prepare authentic matcha green tea and to taste wagashi, an authentic Japanese sweet.
Upon stepping into the serene tearoom, we were graciously greeted by Mr. Tsugio Itami, a renowned ‘Contemporary Master Craftsman’ celebrated for his exquisite skill in crafting original wagashi, the intricate and delicate Japanese traditional confections known for their artistry and cultural significance.
While basking in the tranquil beauty of the Japanese garden’s exquisite landscape from the traditional tea room, they also carefully demonstrated the precise process of preparing a warm, frothy matcha drink, using high-quality, pure green tea powder to craft a rich, vibrant beverage.
After the tea break, we made our way to Horai Kichijitsuan, a charming restaurant renowned for its delicious tempura. There, we enjoyed a satisfying lunch featuring perfectly battered and crispy tempura, complemented by an assortment of tangy pickles and tender pink salmon.
We also sampled Izumo Soba, a distinctive Japanese noodle crafted from buckwheat. The buckwheat grains are ground with their outer shells intact, resulting in noodles that are richer in flavor, more aromatic, and more nutritious than typical soba elsewhere in Japan.
Next is the Adachi Museum of Art, a stunning cultural haven nestled within an exquisitely crafted garden that embodies natural beauty and artistic harmony. From the moment we stepped onto the museum grounds, an enchanting, meticulously landscaped garden greeted us with vibrant blossoms and tranquil water features, creating a peaceful ambiance.
As we entered the museum, we were captivated by the breathtaking photographs of the garden across different seasons—spring’s delicate cherry blossoms, the rich hues of autumn foliage, and the serene, snow-covered winter landscape—each image embodying the surroundings’ timeless beauty and serenity.
As we wandered through the museum, our eyes were immediately drawn to the stunning wooden-and-glass windows that offered a crystal-clear view of the diverse gardens encircling the building. The scene was a harmonious blend of white gravel pathways, tranquil ponds reflecting the sky, elegantly arranged rocks, and lush, meticulously maintained plants, all evoking a serene, meditative atmosphere.
It felt as though we were gazing at an exquisite painting of a traditional Japanese garden, with every element carefully curated to inspire peace and reflection. The museum also features a charming souvenir shop and several cozy tea and coffee outlets nestled beside a tranquil Zen garden, inviting visitors to relax and soak in the calming surroundings.
That moment likely stood out as the highlight of our trip to Shimane. The garden was perhaps the most breathtaking and meticulously designed landscape I have encountered thus far, with lush greenery, tranquil water features, and intricate stone arrangements that emphasized natural beauty. It’s no surprise that the Journal of Japanese Gardening in the US ranked this garden as number one for 13 consecutive years, from 2003 to 2015.
Our final destination was the historic Daisen-ji Temple, nestled in the scenic landscape of Tottori Prefecture. Daisen-ji is an ideal spot for adventure enthusiasts and those passionate about exploring spiritual sites, offering a blend of natural beauty and cultural significance.
During our visit, we ascended a winding pathway near the heart of the nearby village, surrounded by lush greenery and the tranquil sounds of nature, until we reached the main entrance of Daisen-ji. This revered Buddhist temple, recognized as a National Treasure of Japan, stands majestically with its traditional architecture, ornate carvings, and serene atmosphere that invites reflection and awe.
In addition to the bustling village center, which is dotted with charming hostels, unique souvenir shops, and welcoming restaurants, Daisen also attracts many visitors during the winter season due to its close proximity to a popular skiing destination, offering a perfect blend of cultural charm and outdoor adventure.
As we strolled through the charming village center, our knowledgeable tour guide Danny shared that he had also spent a brief period living in Angeles, Pampanga, a few years back to improve his English skills. It’s no surprise, then, that he speaks English so fluently and confidently.
After savoring creamy ice cream near the ancient temple, we made our way back to the busy parking area and continued onwards to Sakaiminato Port. As the ship gradually departed from the harbor, a cheerful group of children, dressed in vibrant attire, bid us farewell with enthusiastic performances alongside a lively marching band.
Day 6: Arrival at Busan Port in Korea
Due to my hectic schedule prior to departing for Japan, I was unable to obtain a Korean Visa. Since the last port we visited was Busan, a city in South Korea, I had no option but to remain onboard the cruise ship for the duration of our stay.
While the rest of the media group participated in the Busan day tour, I spent the entire day lounging inside my cabin. I watched television, caught up on my favorite shows, and updated my blog with new entries. Since this was also our last stop before returning to Fukuoka for our flight to Manila, I saw it as an opportunity to explore the cruise ship. We hadn’t had the chance to do so earlier due to our busy schedule, so I took some time to tour the ship’s various decks, amenities, and scenic spots, soaking in the atmosphere before departure.
Many people assume that cruising is exclusively for luxury travelers who seek premium experiences. I used to share that view, but perspectives have evolved over time. Today, cruising remains one of the most relaxing and hassle-free ways to visit multiple destinations in a single trip, allowing travelers to enjoy a variety of locations without the need for constant packing or planning. Importantly, advancements in the industry have made cruising more accessible and affordable than ever, opening the door for a broader range of people to experience this enjoyable mode of travel.
Joining the Costa Victoria North Asia Cruise is probably the best way to explore parts of Japan if you want a convenient, seamless experience. While enjoying the amenities on board Costa Victoria, we could visit Fukuoka, Maizuru, Kanazawa, Sakaiminato, and Busan all in one go. We could explore each port and nearby tourist attractions every day without worrying about transfers and accommodations.
At each port we visited, we explored local shopping, enjoyed local food, and experienced local culture by visiting historical and religious sites renowned for their significance. We also felt very welcome at each destination, especially during embarkation and disembarkation, when we were usually entertained by local performers.
As I conclude this article, I want to sincerely thank Travel People and Costa Cruises for their kind invitation. The cruise experience was truly memorable, filled with beautiful sights and enjoyable moments. I especially cherished the soothing sea breeze that gently brushed against me while relaxing on the veranda of my cabin, a sensation I find myself yearning for now.
Watch Cora’s Vlog about our Tour in Matsue, Japan
Watch Cora’s Vlog about their Tour in Busan, Korea
Also Read:
- Costa Victoria North Asia Cruise: Tour of Maizuru in Kyoto, Japan
- 10 Breathtakingly Beautiful Places in Asia To Visit Before You Die
- Beaches in Southeast Asia – Top suggestions for all types of travelers
Embark on a dazzling journey as sea, sky, and shore come together to create an unforgettable adventure aboard any of the luxury ships of Costa Cruise Asia. For bookings and inquiries, please contact Manila Trunkline at +632 65-8800 or Mobile at +63 917 5001919. You may also visit http://www.travelpeople.com.ph.
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Costa Victoria North Asia Cruise Series:
Day 1: Arrival in Fukuoka, Japan
Day 2: Half-Day Tour of Fukuoka
Day 3: Tour of Maizuru in Kyoto
Day 4: Arrival in Kanazawa Port, Japan
Day 5: Arrival in Sakaiminato Port in Matsue, Japan
