Sacred Japan & South Korea

Japan

Sacred Japan & South Korea

Japan

Trip overview & key details

Trip information

Destination

Japan

Duration

11 Days , 10 Nights

Ship

Heritage Adventurer

Start Date

May 6, 2026

End Date

May 16, 2026

Embarkation

Osaka

Disembarkation

Niigata-Tokyo

Adventure highlights

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Day-by-day itinerary

Day 1 :

Osaka

Arrive at Honshu’s largest port city Osaka where modern architecture and a vibrant dining scene are nestled alongside the 16th Century shogunate Osaka Castle, and make your way to your hotel where you will spend the first night of the expedition. This evening meet your fellow voyagers and expedition guides over dinner at the hotel.

Day 2 :

Osaka

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before exploring Osaka. Opportunities here include visiting Minoh Park and Osaka Castle. With an area of just 9.6 square kilometres (963 hectares), Minoh Park is one of Japan’s smallest National Parks and home to the iconic 33-metre high Minoh Waterfall and diverse wildlife, including the Japanese Giant Salamander and protected Mino Monkeys. Explore Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s most famous landmarks, take in the views from Osaka Castle Main Tower and relive dramatic stories of warlords and Osaka’s fascinating history. We also plan to visit Dotonbori, Osaka’s vibrant downtown hub of food and culture, for lunch. This afternoon your Captain and Expedition Team welcome you aboard Heritage Adventurer.

Day 3 :

Tomano

From the port of Uno-Ko, we will visit one of Japan’s most famed gardens, Koraku-en, which translates as ‘garden of pleasure after’. This 17th-Century formal garden has 28 acres to explore and offers stunning views of the nearby towering Okayama Castle. This afternoon we will continue to Kurashiki, where we explore the old merchant quarter, and its fine 17th-century wooden warehouses painted white with traditional black tiles along a canal framed with weeping willows and filled with koi. There will also be the opportunity to visit the Ohara Museum of Art which includes rare works by Matisse, Picasso and Renoir and collections from Japan’s renowned Mingei movement, including ceramics by Shōji Hamada. For those interested in art you may wish to travel to Naoshima Island – Japan’s art island – for a full-day excursion. Your day on Naoshima Island will have you admiring its architecture and art museums, including Chichu Art Museum and Benesse House, featuring work by Japanese and international artists including the iconic pumpkins by Yayoi Kusama.

Day 4 :

Hiroshima/Miyajima

Despite its history, including being the site of the world’s first atomic bomb attack on 6 August 1945, Hiroshima is a vibrant and thriving cosmopolitan community. We plan to visit the beautiful Peace Park and Museum, with its sombre cenotaph containing names of atomic bomb victims, and the permanently lit ‘Flame of Peace’. We plan to time our visit to Miyajima Island during high tide, where possible, to experience the floating Torii Gate. Considered one of Japan’s most scenic spots it is also the location of the famed Daisho-in Buddhist temple. Choose to indulge in fresh local oysters and ice cream, while native Sika deer wander the streets, and enjoy the views of the Shinto Shrine and Torri Gate.

Day 5 :

Hagi

Hagi was a minor fishing port until Mori Terumoto fortified it in 1604, and it was Mori Samurai that helped spark off the anti-Tokugawa revolt in the mid-19th Century. Today, it is better known for its traditional pottery making. This morning we will explore the Teramachi District with its temples and shrines, the Jokamachi District, where we find old Samurai houses and take time to visit the Hagi Castle ruins, Shizuki Park and Tokoji Temple. Spend this afternoon exploring the small town of Senzaki, birthplace of famous Japanese poet Misuzu Kaneko, and home to designated national natural monument and place of scenic beauty Ryugu no Shiofuki/The Dragon Spout, and the region’s famous fish cake cuisine Senzaki Kamaboko which date back to the 1680s. Or travel to the outskirts of the city and the Yoshika Taibi Memorial Museum which is dedicated to a large collection of Hagiyaki pottery which was highly prized in the Edo period as wares for tea ceremonies. Alternatively, discover the natural wonders of 300 million year old limestone Akiyoshido Cave.

Day 6 :

Ulsan, South Korea

Today we cross the Sea of Japan to Ulsan in South Korea where we plan to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Gyeongju. The capital of the Silla Dynasty and dating back to the first millennium, Gyeongju is known as ‘the museum without walls’ and is full of ancient Korean history and Buddhist culture. Stroll among excavated monuments, temples, tombs and pagodas at Tumuli Park and the Bulguksa Buddhist Temple. We may also visit the iconic Woljeonggyo Bridge, savour Korean delicacies and explore Hwanglidangil Road, South Korea’s trendy yet traditional Korean-style food, pub, and shopping street and walk in the beautiful Taehwagang Bamboo Forest. Today is a perfect taste of South Korea.

Day 7 :

Matsue, Japan

Arrive at the port of Sakaiminato, entry point to Matsue, known as ‘the town of water’ due to being situated between Lake Shinji and Lake Nakaumi. We plan to visit Matsue Castle, a national treasure and one of Japan’s few largely intact 17th Century castles. Other options today may include exploring Daisen-Oki National Park and Mount Daisen with its rich Buddhist culture, it was once home to 3,000 soldier monks, and offers panoramic views from the summit at the Ogamiyama Shrine before visiting the breathtaking Daisenji Temple. Visit the Japanese circuit-style Yuushien Garden combining the traditional elements of a pond, waterfalls, streams, stone lanterns, rock garden and a variety of seasonal flowers including more than 250 types of Japanese Peony, or the Adachi Museum of Art renowned for its superb Japanese gardens and collection of contemporary Japanese paintings, comprising some 1,500 of the country’s most highly regarded paintings produced after the Meiji period.

Day 8 :

Kanazawa

Options today include exploring the historic mountain settlement and UNESCO World Heritage Site of Shirakawa-go, high in the remote mountains of the Shogawa River Valley in Hakusan National Park. Take in the sights on mountain walks and experience the unique cultural traditions including the region’s iconic Gassho-zukuri farmhouses, some of which are more than 250 years old, designed to withstand the heavy snow in winter and provide a large attic space for cultivating silkworms. Alternatively explore the rich art centre of Kanazawa discovering some of the unique styles of Japanese art. Kanazawa is rightly famous for its Kutani-style pottery, exquisite lacquerware, gold-leaf workmanship, hand painted silk, and classical Noh dance-drama performed since the 14th Century. Wander the winding cobblestone streets of Kanazawa’s Geisha district Higashi Chaya, explore elegant restaurants and craft galleries and visit the impressive Edo-period Kenroku-en Garden, one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan.

Day 9 :

Sado Island

Today we will explore remote Sado Island off the coast of Niigata. Comprising the mountain ranges of Osado and Kosado flanking the Kokunaka Plain, Sado was once a destination of political exile. It now boasts its own rich cultural and religious life incorporating puppet theatre, Okesa folk songs, Ondeko drumming and demon dances, and Noh theatre thanks to some of its more famous displaced figures. Home to the Japanese Crested Ibis, extinct on the mainland, and the iconic Taraibune Tub Boats, which we will have the opportunity to experience, this island off the beaten path combines stunning natural scenery including Senkakuwan Bay and Ogi Peninsula, and wilderness and wildlife with a rich history including gold and silver mining, Samurai warrior culture and unique agri- and aqua-culture practices. Sado Island is widely considered a perfect miniature version of Japan. Here, we will visit the Shukunegi Village National Important Preservation Area and learn more about traditional taiko drumming at the Sado Island Taiko Centre.

Day 10 :

Niigata to Tokyo

This morning sail into the bustling port town of Niigata, famous for snow, rice, sake, hot springs and the six-arched, granite-sided stone Bandai Bridge, designated as a Nationally Important Cultural Property in 2004, and one of the most scenic spots in the city. Enjoy breakfast before travelling by Shinkansen, ‘bullet train’, to Tokyo, check into your hotel and spend the evening at your leisure.

Day 11 :

Tokyo

After breakfast continue your adventure or take a complimentary coach, departing 9am, to Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport).

Ship gallery

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Ship details & cabin information

Ship overview

Heritage Adventurer is a true pioneering expedition vessel of exceptional pedigree. Often referred to as the 'Grande Dame of Expedition Cruising' due to her celebrated history and refined design, she was purpose-built for adventure in 1991 at Finland's Rauma shipyard and specifically designed for Polar exploration.

Setting a peerless standard in authentic expedition travel, Heritage Adventurer (formerly known as MS Hanseatic) combines the highest passenger ship iceclass rating (1A Super) with an impressive history of Polar exploration. Having held records for the most northern and southern Arctic and Antarctic navigations, and for traversing both the Northwest and Northeast Passages, makes Heritage Adventurer perfect for pioneering New Zealand-based Heritage Expeditions signature experiential expedition travel.

Originally designed to accommodate 184 guests, Heritage Adventurer now welcomes just 140 expeditioners ensuring spacious, stylish and comfortable voyages, while a fleet of 14 Zodiacs ensures all guests are able to maximise their expedition adventure. Heritage Adventurer proudly continues our traditions of exceptional, personalised expedition experiences as Heritage Expeditions flagship.

Cabin information & pricing

Available cabins

Cabin details

Main Deck Triple
Description

Main Deck Triple Cabins on Deck 3 are a spacious 22m2 and feature two porthole windows, two single beds and one Pullman bed which folds down from the wall, comfortable lounge, writing desk, private en-suite with shower, ample storage and a flat screen entertainment system.

Deck level

Deck 3

Availability
Available

Pricing & Options

Base Price
$8,495.00

per person

Currency Options
AUDA$12,680.00
USD$8,495.00
GBP£6,535.00
NZDNZ$13,795.00
EUR€8,135.00

Cabin Layout

Cabin Layout

Current location

Last known position

Latitude: -51.949269

Longitude: 164.250071

Last updated: 1/14/2026

Location: Kimberley region, Western Australia (Indian Ocean)

What's included & excluded

Included in your expedition

  • Landing fees
  • one night hotel accommodation equivalent to your on board accommodation (incl. dinner/breakfast)
  • pre cruise transfer and post cruise bullet train transfer
  • all on board ship accommodation with meals
  • house beer
  • wine and soft drinks with lunch and dinner
  • and all shore excursions and activities. Programme of lectures by noted naturalists.

Excluded

  • All items of a personal nature
  • laundry
  • drinks
  • gratuities. International/domestic flights
  • visas and travel insurance.

Important Note

Itineraries serve as a guideline only. Routes may change due to ice, weather, or wildlife conditions. Landings depend on site availability, permits, and AECO rules. Official sailing plans and landing slots are set before the season, yet the expedition leader makes the final decisions. Flexibility remains essential on expedition cruises.

Price & Booking

Price start from:

$8,495.00

per person

Book this cruise before someone else takes your favorite cabin!

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Travel Advisor

Sarah Johnson

Senior Nature Travel Advisor

10+ years experience in the travel industry
250+ successful trips planned

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Read Real Experiences From Our Travelers

Read Real Experiences From Our Travelers

Experience Overview

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4.8/5 Average Rating

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Based on 4 verified reviews

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This journey was incredible! The stunning landscapes and raw power of nature amazed me. Perfect locations, cozy accommodations, and smooth transport. I've already booked my next adventure!

John Doe

John Doe

Verified Traveler

This journey was incredible! The stunning landscapes and raw power of nature amazed me. Perfect locations, cozy accommodations, and smooth transport. I've already booked my next adventure!

Alice Smith

Alice Smith

Verified Traveler

This journey was incredible! The stunning landscapes and raw power of nature amazed me. Perfect locations, cozy accommodations, and smooth transport. I've already booked my next adventure!

Michael Brown

Michael Brown

Verified Traveler

This journey was incredible! The stunning landscapes and raw power of nature amazed me. Perfect locations, cozy accommodations, and smooth transport. I've already booked my next adventure!

Sophia Johnson

Sophia Johnson

Verified Traveler

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to common questions about our tours, travel, and bookings.

Who are these nature trips suitable for?

These nature trips are suitable for anyone who loves the outdoors, including families, adventure seekers, and nature enthusiasts. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced hiker, there's something for everyone to enjoy!

Who are these nature trips suitable for?

Nature trips are suitable for families looking for quality time together.

Nature trips are suitable for families looking for quality time together.

These nature trips are suitable for anyone who loves the outdoors, including families, adventure seekers, and nature enthusiasts. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced hiker, there's something for everyone to enjoy!

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