Circling Japan - Summer 2014

The first time we went to Japan in the 1980's, we found it both familiar and strange. Superficially, the buildings, clothing, subways, stores, etc. were very similar to what we had at home. But as soon as we had closer contact with people, we saw huge differences. Some of them were inscrutable. Although the locals had studied English in school, they were shy about actually speaking with us and were much more comfortable with the written language. We learned to carry a note pad. It distressed me not to be able to read a single sign. I would look at a store and have no idea if it sold tires or cat food. Restaurants usually had models of their food in the window and we could point to what we thought we would like to eat. Sometimes even that lead to the unexpected on our plates.

A cruise from Alaska to Bangkok we took in 2007 included a few Japanese ports and it was such an easy way to enjoy this country without major language struggles. So when we saw a cruise itinerary that combined three back to back cruises around the islands of Japan, each with different port stops, we booked a cabin. We're expecting to travel with only a few other English speaking passengers so even while we're onboard, this will be a real adventure. A few stops in South Korea, China and Russia while change it up a bit.

•Return to main trip page to see our other travel adventures.