You want to set your travel plans for cruising in August. That is when the MSC Splendida will embark on a nine-day cruise journey. Ports of call will include the Japanese cities of Yokohama, Aomori, Muroran, and Sendai. In addition, guests on the cruise ship will also get to visit Vladivostok, Russia.
The MSC Splendida adventure is scheduled at the same time as the Japanese event of Aomori Nebuta Matsuri, or the fire festival, occurs. This event is an exciting time in Japan as it draws millions of visitors to the country annually. The evenings are highlighted by the beating of Taiko drums while the sounds of flutes and bells fill the air and hundreds of dancers step lithely to the sounds.
Lighted lanterns made from rice paper show off images such as warriors, horses, or demons, all of which are pulled and displayed in the streets as well. Cruise guests on the MSC Splendida can partake in the above celebration if they book an excursion in Aomori where the event is being held.
At Muroran, tourists can visit Mount Usu and Lake Toya where they can enjoy one-of-kind panoramic mountain views and savor a Japanese hot spa. This tour starts at the Nishiyama Crater Walking Trail at Mount Usu. After their trek, visitors will be treated to the hot springs at Lake Toya. The spring waters are said to relieve conditions such as arthritis and neuralgia.
At Sendai, cruisers will be able to tour the sacred islet of Kinkasan Island. While on the island, guests can enjoy spectacular views of Sendai City, the Kurikoma Mountains, and the Pacific Ocean. Therefore, anyone who wants to experience Japan’s culture and natural scenery will be delighted with a reservation on the MSC Splendida.
The ship, which is one of the largest vessels featured by the Swiss-based cruise line MSC Cruises, was built in 2008 and features 1,250 cabins. Five restaurants are featured onboard the ship as well as a genuine Balinese spa. Most of the cabins offer breathtaking sea views from elegant balconies.