As you approach the islands of Japan, you’ll witness them as mariners and merchants once did, unchanged in their natural beauty. Remote and often untouched, these destinations reveal ancient temples, abandoned castles, and landscapes where the quiet echoes of history are intertwined with the rhythms of nature.

At Yakushima, you’ll stroll through mist-shrouded forests, where thousand-year-old cedars tower above, while deer and monkeys roam freely. The waters around the Ogasawara Islands teem with marine life, offering a chance to see dolphins and whales breaching in the distance.

Travelling aboard the Heritage Adventurer, you’ll have the luxury of a modern expedition ship, granting access to places few others visit. Expert guides, naturalists, and historians bring to life the stories of these islands, from the feudal lords who once ruled them to the World War II remnants still visible today. Experience the juxtaposition of ancient traditions and modern vibrancy in cities like Hagi and Nagasaki, where samurai culture and contemporary life coexist. Each day holds new surprises, whether it’s an encounter with wildlife, a hidden shrine, or an opportunity to immerse yourself in local culture.

Crossing over to South Korea’s Ulsan, you’ll explore the cultural riches of Gyeongju, once the capital of the ancient Silla Kingdom, home to stunning temples, burial mounds, and artefacts that have survived the ages. The remote island destinations you explore on this voyage offer a window into Japan’s soul, rich in mystery, history, and a captivating connection to the natural world.

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Itinerary Highlights

Tokyo

Your journey starts in Tokyo where you will meet fellow travellers and your expedition guides.

The following day you will board the famous bullet train and cross the country to Kanazawa.

Kanazawa

Explore the historic mountain village of Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO site in Hakusan National Park, known for its Gassho-zukuri farmhouses. Alternatively, visit Kanazawa, famed for its pottery, lacquerware, gold-leaf art, and Noh theatre. Wander cobblestone streets, visit Kenrokuen Garden, and explore Omicho Market. This evening, join the expedition team as we sail towards Matsue.

Matsue

Arriving at Sakaiminato, the gateway to Matsue, known as ‘the town of water’, you will visit Matsue Castle, a 17th-century national treasure. Other options include exploring Daisen-Oki National Park, Yuushien Garden during its Peony Festival, the Adachi Museum of Art, learning Japanese papermaking at Yakumo-mura village, or wandering the picturesque streets and canals.

Hagi

Hagi, once a minor fishing port fortified in 1604, is now famed for its traditional pottery. Explore the Teramachi District’s temples, Jokamachi’s Samurai houses, Hagi Castle, Shizuki Park, and Tokoji Temple. In the afternoon, visit the Yoshika Taibi Memorial Museum or explore the 300-million-year-old Akiyoshido Cave, a natural wonder of limestone formations.

Ulsan, South Korea

Today, you cross the Sea of Japan to Ulsan, South Korea, and visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Gyeongju, the Silla Dynasty capital. Known as “the museum without walls,” Gyeongju is rich in ancient Korean history and Buddhist culture. Explore temples, tombs, and pagodas, enjoy Korean delicacies and cultural performances, and visit the National Museum’s treasures.

Elephant Island

Fukuoka, Kyushu’s largest city, blends trendy yatai food stalls, vibrant art, historic ruins, and coastal parks. Explore Kitakyushu, Kokura Castle, TOTO Museum, Kawachi Wisteria Garden, or visit Nanzoin Temple’s reclining bronze Buddha, the world’s largest. Discover Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, dedicated to poet Sugawara no Michizane, surrounded by gardens, ponds, and over 6,000 plum trees.

Nagasaki

Arrive in Nagasaki, the second city hit by an A-bomb during WWII. Visit the Peace Memorial Park, Atomic Bomb Museum, and Dejima Island, once home to Dutch traders during Japan’s isolation period. In the afternoon, explore Glover Garden, featuring European-style homes from the 19th century, including Glover House, the inspiration for Puccini’s Madame Butterfly.

Yakushima Island

This morning, as the ship sails towards the southern tip of Kyushu, you’ll head to Yakushima Island, Japan’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its diverse flora. In the afternoon, you can choose from nature walks in Yakusugi Land, part of Yakushima National Park. Discover ancient cedar trees, like the Buddha Sugi and Sennen Sugi, and spot the endemic Yakushima Macaque.

Uwajima

This morning, explore Shikoku Island and Uwajima, Japan’s largest pearl cultivation centre. Visit a pearl farm to learn about the process and see Uwajima Castle, offering panoramic views of the town and harbour. Stroll through the Samurai-era Tenshaen Garden before enjoying a leisurely afternoon in the city.

Koraku-en

Today you will visit the renowned 17th-century Koraku-en Garden, featuring 28 acres of trails, ponds, and cherry trees, this is one of Japan’s most exquisite gardens. In the afternoon, explore Kurashiki’s old merchant quarter with 17th-century white warehouses, willow-lined canals, and koi fish. You may also visit the Ohara Museum, showcasing works by Matisse, Picasso, and Japan’s Mingei movement.

Osaka

Your voyage ends today in Osaka. From here we can arrange for you to explore the local area, including the 16th-century shogunate Osaka Castle, before you move on to your next stop.

Itinerary Highlights

Our tailor-made journeys include

A dedicated Destination Expert who will curate your itinerary from scratch, tailoring it to your preferences + interests
Private + extraordinary under-the-radar experiences
Access to the very best guides + experts to bring the destination to life
Private international airport transfers in destination
The MyCazLoyd app to view your itinerary offline anywhere, anytime
24/7 support whilst travelling
ATOL protection to give you total peace of mind