El Asuka III, as part of its 2026 Japan Circumnavigation Discovery Cruise, made its first call as an Asuka-class cruise ship at the Port of Hondo in the city of Amakusa, Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan.
Surrounded by the sea and mountains, Amakusa is a region of great natural richness, composed of numerous islands of various sizes, and home to wild dolphins, making dolphin watching a very popular activity.
Amakusa is the hometown of Kundo Koyama, ambassador of Asuka Cruises. His great interest drove a collaboration between Kumamoto Prefecture, the city of Amakusa, and Asuka Cruises, resulting in this special joint event commemorating the ship’s first call at the port. Upon disembarking from the ship, the mascot Kumamon, created by Koyama, dressed as a captain, greeted the guests together with the citizens of Amakusa.
“I want to convey the true charm of Amakusa to the passengers of the Asuka III. And at the same time, I want the local residents to enjoy a truly pleasant stay,” said Koyama.
