A Botanical Odyssey of Asia's Finest Gardens

Autumn transforms Japan into a masterpiece of reds, oranges and yellows. The country's revered maples dazzle the eye during the tradition of momijigari, or leaf viewing, when parks and temple grounds play host to admiring crowds of leaf hunters. Whether in its storied cities or farther afield, the cooler weather proves ideal for exploring the island nation's many idyllic landscapes.

The serene setting of Kiyosumi Garden seems a fitting metaphor for Japan's inherent contrasts, set as it is within the bustling metropolis of Tokyo. The celebrated strolling garden was built around a large pond, which peacfully reflects the garden back at us.

In Kanazawa, we arrive at one of the country's most cherished gardens, Kenroku-en. The expansive grounds here feature an array of trees, ponds, bridges, and pathways that ascend through mesmerising groves. The residence of Japan's imposing shogun, Tokugawa Ieyasu, Nijo Castle's grounds are furnished with fiery maple and ginkgo trees, which share the space with cherry and plum trees.

While the polished landscapes at the Adachi Museum of Art incorporate a subtle display of autumn reds amid a sea of lush evergreen majesty. The splendour of the season continues, as Mount Daisen's leaves of many hues dapple the surrounding landscape. The allure of an autumn in Japan is truly one of Asia's finest travel experiences.

Our April departure sees us admiring the vibrant colours of springtime. See iconic gardens in full spring bloom as you cruise between the cities of Osaka and Kanazawa. Admire beautiful blossoms of tree peonies and cascading vines of purple wisteria. Late spring is a magical time to visit Japan, with parks and gardens alive with a flourish of pink petals and the alluring fragrance and sights of the season.

On the island of Shikoku, Ritsurin Park is famous for its spring colour and Chrysanthemum Moon pavilion. The beautifully landscaped grounds here are idyllically punctuated by meandering pathways and tranquil ponds.

One of the highlights of a visit to Japan is seeing the revered Kenroku-en Garden in Kanazawa. It is acclaimed for being one of the country's top three gardens. Flowering shrubs of azaleas trace walkways leading to bridges, ponds, and groves of towering pines. At the celebrated Koraku-en Garden, in the city of Okayama, flourishing tree peonies and azaleas are also on display. Yushi-en Garden, on the small island of Daikonshima, is full of colour and blossom and is well-known for its ginseng and peonies. While one of the most anticipated sights on our journey is the Kawachi Wisteria Garden. Here, a spectacular display of vines has been arranged into two 100-metre-long tunnels. We are invited to slowly make our way along them, taking time to gaze overhead in sheer wonderment.

The graceful appearance of pink and purple blossom against blue skies makes a springtime visit to Japan a glorious experience.

Singapore's lush gardens perfectly complement its innovative, environmentally focused environs. Absorb its botanical aspects and cultural sights, then enhance your journey with three nights travelling across Malaysia aboard the Eastern & Oriental Express.

"Any time spent aboard the Eastern & Oriental Express is a highlight. Being able to relax and watch the jungle outside, and passing tropical showers as you feast on four course meals created by a Michelin star chef is incredible. Travelling by open-air vehicle through Taman Negara National Park, we learned all about the different layers of the rainforest from our local guide, who was also a biologist. It truly makes you appreciate how special nature is. There was no-one but us in the park, so it really felt like we had one of the oldest tropical rainforests to ourselves for a moment in time. The canopy treetop walk was an unforgettable experience. For much of the trip you felt miles away from civilisation. Stepping on board was much like stepping back in time in the most luxurious way as you have all the amenities you need." – Sarah Fitzgerald, Senior Product Development Executive

Known as a 'City Within a Garden', Singapore boasts a wealth of verdant gardens. Wander through Singapore Botanic Gardens, the National Ochid Garden, and the Gardens by the Bay complex. Marvel at the lush greenery beneath the vast canopy at Jewel Changi Airport. We conclude our journey with three nights aboard the luxurious Eastern & Oriental Express train, admiring the flourishing jungles, tropical rainforest and pristine beaches of Malaysia's west coast.