Plan for Japan
The red temple gate appears like a mirage rising out of the sea, its form reflected in the serene waters off Itsukushima island. At high tide, the tender slips easily through the Torii gate, also known as “the floating gate”. Such a sight is perhaps the last thing you would expect to find at sea, yet the sacred Shinto gate is a reminder that I am indeed cruising in Japan - a destination that blends ancient wonders, unspoilt islands and the buzz of modern cities, all of which, it turns out, are best experienced by boat.
All eyes were set to be on Japan this year with the summer Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympic Games but, like everything else, the Games were postponed. However, with new dates announced for next summer (23 July to 8 August) yacht owners can still plan an Olympic visit to this incredible country, meeting the yacht before or after attending events.
The major cities of Tokyo and Kyoto might be the main draw for first-time
