33-Day Exploring The Pacific Passage & Inside Passage

Hachijo Jima Island, a volcanic island in the Philippine Sea, offers visitors a peaceful escape just a short flight from Tokyo. Known for its subtropical climate and dramatic landscapes, the island is home to rugged coastlines, dense forests, and the towering Mount Hachijo-Fuji, an inactive volcano that invites travelers to hike its slopes for panoramic views. The island’s natural hot springs, or "onsen," provide a soothing retreat, with open-air baths overlooking the ocean and the surrounding greenery.

Rich in history, Hachijo Jima has a fascinating past as both a place of exile during the Edo period and a strategic location during World War II. Today, remnants of its history can be seen in old stone walls, underground war tunnels, and the Hachijo Island History and Folklore Museum.

Hachijo Jima’s waters offer excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities, with coral reefs, lava formations, and diverse marine life, including sea turtles and colorful tropical fish. The island’s coastline is dotted with scenic spots such as Nanbara Senjojiki, a vast lava plateau shaped by ancient eruptions, where visitors can walk along rugged black rock formations.

Culinary experiences on Hachijo Jima highlight fresh seafood and local delicacies, including ashitaba, a nutritious green herb used in tempura and noodle dishes, and the island’s signature passionfruit.

Located at the southern tip of Hokkaido, Hakodate combines historical charm with natural splendor. One of the city's most famous attractions is the view from Mount Hakodate, which offers a panorama of the city and the surrounding sea, especially stunning at night. Hakodate's rich history is evident in the Motomachi district, where you can find Western-style buildings and churches that reflect its past as one of Japan's first international ports.

Hakodate is also a destination for food lovers. The Hakodate Morning Market is a bustling spot where you can sample fresh seafood, including the city's famous "dancing squid" dish. The unique delicacy features a freshly prepared squid that appears to move when soy sauce is applied!

Glacier Bay’s untouched beauty will astound you. A National Park and Preserve, as well as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Glacier Bay fjord lies north of Alaska’s capital, Juneau, and is covered with stunning tidewater glaciers and a variety of native flora and fauna. Accessible only by boat or air, this remote nature preserve is a favorite destination for cruises, which sail right past the bay’s massive glaciers and mountains for the ultimate view. Be on the lookout for the variety of eye-catching wildlife, including eagles, moose, and humpback whales, who have made Glacier Bay home.

Icy Strait, Alaska, is a hidden gem for adventurers seeking an authentic Alaskan experience. Nestled between the rugged coastlines of the Inside Passage and the stunning wilderness of the Tongass National Forest, Icy Strait offers unparalleled natural beauty and wildlife encounters. This remote destination is ideal for those looking to explore the great outdoors, with opportunities for whale watching, fishing, and hiking through pristine landscapes.

The area's primary town, Hoonah, is the largest Tlingit village in Alaska and provides a rich cultural experience. Visitors can immerse themselves in Tlingit traditions by visiting local art galleries and cultural centers. The Hoonah Cultural Center, for example, showcases traditional Tlingit crafts and offers insight into the community’s history and heritage. Additionally, the town is known for its friendly atmosphere and charming small-town feel, perfect for exploring on foot.

One of Icy Strait’s standout attractions is the world’s largest zipline, the Icy Strait Point ZipRider. Soar over the treetops with breathtaking views of the surrounding fjords and forests. For a more tranquil experience, consider a scenic floatplane tour that offers stunning aerial views of the glaciers, mountains, and ocean.

A fun fact about Icy Strait is that it is one of the prime locations in Alaska to witness the migration of humpback whales, with peak sightings occurring from late June through September. This natural spectacle is a highlight for many visitors. For the best experience, plan your visit during the summer months when the weather is milder and wildlife sightings are at their peak.

Glacier Bay’s untouched beauty will astound you. A National Park and Preserve, as well as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Glacier Bay fjord lies north of Alaska’s capital, Juneau, and is covered with stunning tidewater glaciers and a variety of native flora and fauna. Accessible only by boat or air, this remote nature preserve is a favorite destination for cruises, which sail right past the bay’s massive glaciers and mountains for the ultimate view. Be on the lookout for the variety of eye-catching wildlife, including eagles, moose, and humpback whales, who have made Glacier Bay home.