Start Date: August 9, 2024
(Sailing August 19, 2024)

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Land Program

Day 1 – Arrive Ulaanbaatar

Ulaanbaatar

Upon arrival at the airport, meet your Enrichment Journey guide, who will assist with transferring you to the hotel. After checking in, you will have some time to get settled in. This afternoon, meet your guide in the lobby and head south towards the city’s main park and enter a small theater, where we will enjoy an intimate performance of music and dance by the Tumen Ekh Ensemble. After the show, sit down to dinner at one of the city’s best traditional Mongolian restaurants. (Please note: flights to Ulaanbaatar from the U. S. will require a connection. In the event a connecting flight to Ulaanbaatar is not available on the Journey start date you will be provided with an airport hotel overnight a day early). (D)

Note: if you wish to spend more time in Ulaanbaatar, ask your Personal Vacation Manager about the optional hotel extension – which will add one night to your Ulaanbaatar hotel stay.

Day 2 – Ulaanbaatar

Gandan Monastery

After a leisurely breakfast, meet your guide in the hotel lobby and drive a short distance to Gandan Monastery. This Tibetan-style monastery is situated on the edge of the city’s ger district and was constructed by the order of Emperor Yongzheng in 1727. It was one of the few monasteries to escape the Soviet purges of the 1930s, being spared as an example of Mongolia’s feudal past. Since the fall of communism in 1990 it has been renovated and restored into a working monastery and currently has over 150 monks in residence. We will enter the temples, including that of the Mijig Janraisig with its enormous golden Buddha statue, then proceed to the old temple complex to listen to the chanting ceremonies. Afterwards, walk a short distance to visit a Mongolian Shaman and experience a traditional shamanic ritual performance.

Mongolian Shaman

The ancient practice of shamanism has been protected by Mongolia’s constitution since 1992. Many modern Mongols consider shamanism not as a religion, but rather as a way to communicate with people who lived long ago. We will then drive a short distance to the architectural masterpiece of the Choijin Lama Temple and enjoy lunch on the terrace of a secluded café overlooking the temple museum.

Bogd Khan Winter Palace

In the afternoon we will visit the Winter Palace of the Bogd Khan, built by the spiritual leader and theocratic ruler of Mongolia, Bogd Khan, between 1893 and 1903. The palace complex consists of seven temples, grouped symmetrically around two courtyards, with the exterior finishes painted in bright red, green, blue, white, and gold. After the death of the Khan in 1924, the Winter Palace was turned into a museum, and today the collection includes over 8,000 pieces. Afterwards, we will continue to the impressive National History Museum, which showcases the country’s fascinating past. Return to the hotel where the rest of the evening will be at your leisure. (B, L)

Day 3 – Ulaanbaatar and Hustai National Park

Hustai National Park horses

This morning we will journey outside of the city, where a local community of nomadic herders will spend several hours with our group to demonstrate their traditional way of life. Observe them tending to their animals, watch them produce curds and dairy products, discover the manufacturing processes of felts, wool and cashmere, see a ger (traditional nomadic house) being dismantled and see how the herders move their encampment using yak and camel carts to another location. You will also experience other traditional activities such as music and throat singing, bow and arrow shooting practice and a horse show. We will enjoy lunch at the camp, then continue on to Hustai National Park. The park’s area was used in the early 20th Century as a hunting ground for Bogd Khaan, the last king of Mongolia, and afterwards by Mongolian political officials. The park has never had a permanent settlement or been used for agriculture, and in 1993 it was designated as a Specially Protected Area, one year after the project initiation for the reintroduction of the Takhi horses. The population of horses has thrived ever since, and there are now over 220 of them roaming free in the park. In addition to the abundant plant and bird life, the park is also home to red deer, gazelle, roe deer, wild boar, argali, ibex, marmots, grey wolves, lynx, pallas cats, corsac foxes and Eurasian badgers. We will drive into the park and spend some time enjoying the outdoors and spotting wildlife. We will then drive back to Ulaanbaatar, where you will have the rest of the evening at your leisure. (B, L)

Day 4 – Ulaanbaatar to Gobi Desert

Today we will fly to the Gobi Desert. The Gobi Desert covers much of southern Mongolia, and about 40% of the country as a whole. It is characterized by barren expanses of gravel plains and rocky outcrops – with only a few areas of sand dunes.

Yolyn Am gorge

After landing, we will drive to Yol Am, a deep and narrow gorge in the Gurvan Saikhan Mountains, and park up at the head of the valley. Keep a look out for birds of prey and ibex on top of the rocky outcrops above you as you wander down into the gorge. You will have some free time for a leisurely walk around the area. As you walk down the valley the steep rock faces close in and the stream that crisscrosses the path disappears under sheets of ice (there may not be much ice in the summer months but there should be some). After you have explored the area, we will continue driving through the rocky tracks – looking out for herds of white-tailed gazelles and white-naped cranes. Afterwards, continue to an eco-lodge located near the Gurvansaikhan Gobi National Park, our home in the desert for the next two nights. We will be “glamping” in an upgraded version of the nomadic traditional houses. After a relaxing dinner at the lodge, enjoy an evening of stargazing before cozying into your private ger for the night. (B, L, D)

Day 5 – Gobi Desert

Flaming Cliffs

After a leisurely breakfast we will drive a short distance to the Moltsog Els sand dunes, which offer magnificent desert scenery. You will then visit a local camel-herding family living nearby for an authentic cooking class. We will enter their ger, experience nomadic hospitality and sample delicious Mongolian specialties such as milk tea and homemade produce like yogurt and dried curds. Then roll up your sleeves and try your hand at Mongolian cooking! With the family’s guidance and your guide’s help, you will make one of the traditional nomadic dishes – perhaps buuz (steamed dumplings), huushur (fried dumplings) or khorkhog (steamed mutton with hot stones). Then, we will all enjoy the fruits of our efforts for lunch! In the afternoon we will head out to the Flaming Cliffs to admire the orange glow at dusk. It was here in 1923 that Dr. Roy Chapman Andrews and his exploration team from the American Museum of Natural History found the first nest of fossilized dinosaur eggs, and it remains one of the most famous paleontological sites in the world. Afterwards, you will board a camel or a motorized vehicle (at your choice) for a dune ride and some gathering time with your fellow travelers while enjoying hot beverages and snacks. In the end of the day, we return to the lodge for dinner and enjoy your last night in the Gobi Desert. (B, L, D)

Day 6 – Gobi Desert to Terelj National Park

Terelj National Park with a ger (traditional nomadic house) in view

Return to the capital by air and then journey east to the Terelj National Park. The National Park yields some great scenery which makes it a very popular weekend getaway for the locals. We will pass through the main valley and then head outside of the main tourist area toward the Terelj Hotel, the most luxurious hotel in Mongolia. After settling in to the hotel, you are in for a special treat! Performers and athletes from the area will give our group a private show—a “Mini-Naadam”—where you will experience the true essence of Mongolia’s rich culture and sporting prowess. The full festival, held in mid-July, is the nation’s largest holiday and includes many interesting traditions such as wrestling, horse racing, archery and horse herder competitions. All those contests plus a traditional Mongolian dance show will be performed privately for our group within the Terelj National Park. After the fun and festivities, return to your hotel where you can unwind at the pool, spa or jacuzzi, or perhaps have a drink in one of the distinctive lounges. (B, L, D)

Please note that Enrichment Journeys must have a minimum of ten guests on this tour to host a private show. If the group size is less than ten, we will replace the show with alternate cultural experiences.

Naadam Festival

The Naadam Festival is the ultimate celebration of nomadic and Mongolian culture. Naadam, which means “games”, is traditionally celebrated in every town and rural district across the country in July. This festival has been held for centuries as a form of memorial celebration, as an annual sacrificial ritual honoring various mountain gods. It features the three manly sports: wrestling, archery and horse racing. The strongest wrestlers, fastest horses and expert marksmen come together to compete for national and regional titles. Local festivities and merry-making are also key features – something that everyone is encouraged to participate in!

Day 7 – Terelj National Park to Ulaanbaatar

Chingis Khaan Statue

On the way back to Ulaanbaatar, we will stop at the remarkable Chinggis (Genghis) Khan Statue complex near Erdene.Built in 2008, the statue is 130 feet tall and depicts the renowned Mongolian leader on horseback, at the place where, according to legend, he found a golden whip. The statue is symbolically pointed east towards his birthplace. Once you arrive, you will have the option to climb up inside until you reach the exterior staircase, which runs up the mane of the horse to a viewpoint overlooking the Tuul River, the Terelj National Park and the hills of Khan Khentii, Chinggis’ homeland. Then it’s back to Ulaanbaatar to enjoy a farewell lunch in one of our favorite city restaurants. The rest of the day will be at your leisure. (B, L)

Day 8 – Ulaanbaatar to Tokyo

After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Tokyo, the capital city of Japan. You will be greeted by your guide at the airport and transferred to your hotel for check-in. This evening, rejoin the group for dinner at the hotel’s restaurant. (B, D)

Day 9 – Tokyo

Japanese Taiko Drum

Begin the day with a visit to Asakusa Sensoji Temple, the oldest Buddhist temple in Tokyo. Travel back in time as you enter through the iconic gate at the entrance, stroll through the sacred grounds, explore the enormous temple and marvel at the intricately carved five-story pagoda. Then, head to a special venue to learn about Taiko, a traditional Japanese drum which has been used in festivals for over 2,000 years. You will learn how to play Taiko from a professional performer while learning about its origin and influence on Japanese culture.

Roppongi Hills

After lunch at a local restaurant, board a river boat and enjoy an afternoon cruise along the Sumida river, providing you with a new perspective from which to appreciate the ancient and modern aspects of the city. We will then visit Ginza, Tokyo’s upscale shopping and entertainment district. In the evening, visit the Roppongi Hills Observatory to take in a breathtaking view of the city skyline. Then, finish the night with a special dinner with savory Japanese food. (B, L, D)

Day 10 – Tokyo

Sushi Meal

This morning we will start our tour at the Meiji Jingu Shrine, Japan’s most famous Shinto shrine. Nestled within a lush forest in the middle of the city, this peaceful oasis will make you forget that you’re in bustling Tokyo. Back in the city, we will witness Shibuya Crossing, the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing, and explore the upscale Aoyama district. Our next stop is a renowned culinary studio, where you’ll try your hand at making traditional Japanese sushi. After this fun, interactive experience, sit down to a delicious lunch of your own creations. We will then take an after-lunch stroll in the peaceful setting of a traditional Japanese garden. Return to the hotel where you’ll enjoy the evening at your leisure. (B, L)

Day 11 – Tokyo Embarkation

After breakfast, check out of the hotel and transfer to the port in Yokohama, where you will board the Celebrity Millennium for a 12-night cruise around Japan. (B)

Day 12–22: Cruising onboard the Celebrity Millennium (see below for cruise highlights)

Day 23 – Tokyo Disembarkation
Enjoy breakfast onboard, then disembark the Celebrity Millennium and transfer to the airport for your return flight home.

For meals not included in your land programs, all hotels chosen include a restaurant on property where you may relax and enjoy a meal. In addition, your guide is available to make suggestions on nearby dining, shopping or sightseeing.

Port Highlights

Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo, Japan: Amid the endless buzzing neon signs and the overhead cable webs, Tokyo is home to some of the world’s most impressive architecture, stylish shops and 4-star restaurants. Sushi lovers will revel in Tokyo’s offering of the famous dish. And the city’s “Ramen Zones” serve up unique noodle dishes where slurping is encouraged.

Kobe, Japan

Kobe, Japan: is a must-explore destination for anyone visiting Japan. While Kobe has always been an important port in Japan’s history, it also has a reputation for being one of the best-kept cities in the country. From classic Japanese gardens to the longest suspension bridge in the world, Kobe is a dazzling mix of tradition and modern influence.

Kyoto (Osaka), Japan

Kyoto (Osaka), Japan: Discover the fascinating cultural capital of Japan, where countless temples, traditional geishas, Zen gardens, and majestic castles await. Explore Kyoto’s ancient architecture, including the stunning Golden Pavilion and the mystical red torii gates of the Fushimi Inari shrine. Savor the city’s culinary scene, from hole-in-the-wall ramen joints to Michelin-starred restaurants.

Hiroshima, Japan

Hiroshima, Japan: You’ll find top-notch historic and cultural institutions right at your fingertips. Hiroshima quickly rebuilt after an atomic bombing in 1945 during World War II, and history buffs will be fascinated by Hiroshima’s enduring resilience in the face of tragedy. Monuments like Peace Park and the Hiroshima Peace Memorial are a testament to the region’s history and remind us to never forget the loss of life that happened as a result of the bombing.

Nagasaki, Japan

Nagasaki, Japan: It is known for its nature and closeness to the sea, making it both an important harbor city for trade and a seaside destination. Filled with history and a commitment to world peace following the atomic bombing, Nagasaki is a city of charm and character with a rich history and a must-see stop.

Jeju Island, South Korea

Jeju Island, South Korea: The mystique and folklore of Jeju Island follows you no matter where you go on the largest island in South Korea. Once a honeymooner’s island ideal for rest and relaxation, Jeju Island now offers a mix of seaside lounging and active adventuring for visitors. Whether you’re exploring its majestic caves and waterfalls or its quirky attractions like the Teddy Bear Museum.

Kagoshima, Japan

Kagoshima, Japan: Sunny Kagoshima lives in the shadow of Sakurajima, an active volcano that last erupted in 2016. Kagoshima balances an air of mystery with a seaside approachability thanks to its location in Southern Japan along the coast and proximity to Sakurajima. In addition to being the capital of the Kagoshima Prefecture in Japan, the city is home to ancient castles and traditional Japanese Gardens that delight locals and visitors alike.

Mt. Fuji (Shimizu), Japan

Mt. Fuji (Shimizu), Japan: It is one of Japan’s most enduring and famous sights. Not only is it Japan’s highest mountain, but it’s also an active volcano and considered sacred to the area’s residents. The surrounding areas like Tokyo and Yokohama will give you a faraway glimpse of Mount Fuji, but you shouldn’t miss the opportunity to get up close and personal with the mountain.