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View from Miyajima Island

Ancestral Japan

Example 13 Day Cruise aboard Le Laperouse
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This 13-day cruise explores Manila, a city full of contrasts, before heading towards the Japanese islands in the country’s south.
Okinawa, famous for having been the theatre of one of the bloodiest battles of World War II, is also known for its centenarians. Le Laperouse will then sail to Hiroshima, now proclaimed “City of Peace”: Facing the Inland Sea, only the Hiroshima Peace Memorial stands as a reminder of past events. You will also be able to admire the remarkable Shukkeien Garden. Miyajima, the island where people and gods live together, is also accessible from Hiroshima.  You will then cruise to Osaka, the second largest city in Japan which is home to a fortified castle dating back to the 16th century.
Cherry blossoms frame Osaka castleThe rugged terrain around UwajimaRiverside view of HiroshimaSunlit shrine in an Osaka cemeteryView from the terraced fields of UwajimaHiroshima Peace Memorial or Atomic Bomb DomeHiroshima Peace MemorialView from Miyajima Island
Highlights
  • Discover the Japanese islands in the country’s south
  • Visit three UNESCO World Heritage Sites
  • Tour the ancient imperial capitals of Kyoto and Nara
  • Kayak in the mangroves in Amamioshima
Activities
Places Visited
  • Asia
  • Japan
  • Osaka
  • Amamioshima
  • Hiroshima
  • Hualien
  • Ishigaki
  • Manila
  • Miyakojima
  • Miyanoura
  • Naha
  • Oceania
  • Philippines
  • Tamano
  • Uwajima
Activity Level: Relaxed
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Manila | Embark

On first sight, the Philippines' capital shows its highly Americanized Asian megalopolis side, with ultramodern skyscrapers set all along the waterfront. Stroll through the cobbled streets of the Intramuros district and discover a different side of Manila, one that's full of old-world charm. An enchanted pause in the middle of urban bustle, Rizal Park's 60 hectares of magnificent green parkland is perfect for recharging your batteries. To see the city from a different angle, take a walk along Roxas boulevard, a popular seaside promenade.

Day 2-3: At Sea

During your days at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness center. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. These days without ports of call will also be opportunities to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

Day 4: Hualien

Nicknamed “the beautiful island” by Portuguese sailors, 70% of the island of Taiwan is covered in lush, subtropical vegetation. When your ship stops in Hualien discover the stunning Taroko Gorge, one of the island’s must-see sites. This natural masterpiece, sculpted by the pure waters of the Liwu River, is known for its 1,200 meter-high marble cliffs, from which a unique panorama unfolds. During your stop here, discover the Eternal Spring Shrine, a complex clinging to the side of a mountain, made up of several small temples and overlooking a glistening waterfall. Then, along the Tunnel of Nine Turns, you will be able to admire the spectacular gorges which wind their way through deep canyons over some twenty kilometers.

The following optional excursions will be available for an additional charge: The Taroko Gorge, Taroko Gorge And Qingshui Cliff.

Day 5: Ishigaki

Located to the south of the main island of the Yaeyama archipelago, Ishigaki boasts all the aspects of an authentic piece of paradise. Here, instead of skyscrapers, find pure emerald waters and idyllic beaches. Explore pristine coral reefs on a scuba-dive or snorkeling session, where you may witness the 'flight' of a manta ray. The waters off Shiraho, on the island's south-west coast, have one of the largest areas of blue coral in the world.

The following optional excursions will be available for an additional charge: Taketomi Walking Tour, Iriomote Island & Mangrove Cruise, Highlights Of Ishigaki.

Day 6: Miyakojima

Situated between the East China Sea and the Philippine Sea, Miyakojima is the main island of the Miyako Islands, in the Sakishima archipelago. The fourth-largest island in the Okinawa prefecture, it is known for its many sugar cane plantations and some of Japan’s most beautiful beaches. Myriad multicolored fish await you during unforgettable swims and snorkeling.

The following optional excursions will be available for an additional charge: Irabu & Sjimoji Islands, Scenic Miyako & Awamori Distillery, Scenic Views & Swimming, Snorkelling At Miyako.

    Day 7: Naha, Okinawa

    Capital of Okinawa Prefecture, the town of Naha is located on the south-west of the island. You'll love its lively atmosphere, particularly along Kokusai Dori, otherwise known as 'international street'. The picturesque Makishi Public Market, nicknamed 'Naha's kitchen' offers a profusion of colorful fish, Okinawan foodstuffs and local spices and you can sample delicacies cooked on the spot . For an insight into the island's heritage, which combines Japanese and Taiwanese influences, visit Shuri Castle, a medieval building protected by UNESCO and surrounded by lovely gardens.

    The following optional excursions will be available for an additional charge: The Battle Of Okinawa, Sacred Site & Valley Of Gangala Hike, History And Culture Of Okinawa.

    Day 8: Amamioshima

    Situated in the East China Sea in the Nansei archipelago, a group of islands also known as the Ryuku Islands and lying to the south-west of Japan between Kyūshū and Taiwan, Amami Oshima (literally “Amami Big Island”) is the largest of the Amami Islands. It is influenced by the culture of the great Okinawa archipelago. Amami Oshima is a world apart, with wild and pristine nature in which you will experience the tranquillity of the place. The old-growth forest covers 95% of the island’s surface and can be discovered along hiking trails. Its 700,000 m2 of mangrove, the second largest in Japan, are breathtaking.

    ​The following optional excursions will be available for an additional charge: Silk, Kimonos & Tanaka Isson Museum, Canoeing In The Mangrove.

    Day 9: Miyanoura, Yakushima

    Yakushima is a striking island in the South of Japan, covered in forest and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hikers are very fond of this destination because of the lush vegetation, Mount Miyanoura, the waterfalls and cascades. But without a doubt, the symbol of the island remains its many age-old cedar trees which is said to have inspired some of the scenes in the animated film Princess Mononoke. On this island, you will also find wildlife including the Japanese macaque, the sika deer, and green sea turtles which lay their eggs on the magnificent sandy beaches here.

    ​The following optional excursions will be available for an additional charge: Yakusugi Hiking Tour, Yakusugi Walking Tour.

    Day 10: Uwajima

    Located on the west coast of Shikoku island, Uwajima will delight lovers of history and traditional customs. The magnificent Uwajima Castle was built in the 17th-century by the powerful Date clan and has a beautiful ornamental garden and bridge. The much-visited Taga Shrine is dedicated to fertility and is full of phalluses. As for eating, you must taste jakoten, a local delicacy based on fried fish.

    ​The following optional excursions will be available for an additional charge: Uchiko Old Town, Cultural Uwajima.

    Day 11: Hiroshima | Miyajima Island

    Visiting Hiroshima is a moving experience. The town spreads along Honshu Island, along the inside coasts of Seto. While firmly focused on the future, Hiroshima doesn't forget its past, and a visit to the Peace Memorial Park and Genbaku Dome is a must. Enjoy the city's modern, cosmopolitan atmosphere and effervescent nightlife just as much as the peaceful stillness of its natural parkland areas such as splendid Shukkei-en, the town's historic garden.

    ​The following optional excursions will be available for an additional charge: Saijo Sake Street Walking Tour, Remembering Hiroshima, Itsukushima Shrine & Cooking, Itsukushima Shrine & Zazen Meditation.

    Day 12: Tamano

    Located on the island of Honshu, hugging the banks of the Sento Inland Sea, Tamano is a popular destination thanks to its sun-drenched climate. Upon arrival, marvel at the way in which the city has been built along the coast at the foot of a deep, dark forest. In the area surrounding Tamano, stroll down the streets of Kurashiki, known as the 'white-walled city' in a nod to the pretty façades of the houses that line the streets of this ancient Edo-period trading town. Another major regional attraction is the Seto Ohashi bridge. Its 12.5 kilometers make it the world's longest double-decker bridge.

    ​The following optional excursions will be available for an additional charge: Historical Kurashiki, Fukiya Village.

    Day 13: Osaka | Disembark

    • 1 Breakfast
    Like its big sister Tokyo, Osaka is the product of ancestral traditions and amazing technological innovations. And despite its size, its location on the Pacific Ocean give it a sense of serenity. The main historic landmark is the 16th-century Osaka Castle, which stands proud in the midst of majestic skyscrapers. The lively streets of Dotomburi and the bizarre Shinsekai district attract thousands of locals and visitors. A multitude of restaurants offer menus full of regional specialties: takoyaki, made with octopus, and other succulent dishes such as kushikatsu kebabs.

    After breakfast aboard the ship, disembark in Osaka.

    Ship/Hotel

    Le Laperouse

    Le Laperouse Ship
    Le Laperouse
    Le Laperouse Ship

    Dates & Prices

    My Preferred Start Date

    This itinerary is no longer available. For other trip ideas, please visit Asia Tours & Cruises.
    Rates are dynamic and fluctuate based on capacity. Contact us for a specific quote.
    Cabin
    Deluxe Stateroom
    Area: 19 m² Capacity: up to 2 passengers per cabin 4m² Private balcony; King-size bed or twin beds
    Cabin
    Prestige Stateroom Deck 4
    Area: 19 m² Capacity: up to 2 passengers per cabin 4m² private balcony; King-size bed or twin beds
    Cabin
    Prestige Stateroom Deck 5
    Area: 19 m² Capacity: up to 2 passengers per cabin 4m² private balcony; King-size bed or twin beds
    Cabin
    Prestige Stateroom Deck 6
    Area: 19 m² Capacity: up to 2 passengers per cabin 4m² private balcony; King-size bed or twin beds
    Cabin
    Deluxe Suite
    Capacity: up to 2 passengers per cabin 6m² private balcony
    Cabin
    Prestige Suite Deck 5
    8m² private balcony King-size bed or twin beds
    Cabin
    Prestige Suite Deck 6
    8m² private balcony King-size bed or twin beds
    Cabin
    Privilege Suite
    Area: 32 m² Capacity: up to 4 passengers per cabin 8m² private balcony; King-size bed or twin beds
    Cabin
    Grand Deluxe Suite
    Area: 45 m² Capacity: up to 2 passengers per cabin 30m² private balcony; King-size bed or twin beds
    Cabin
    Owner's Suite
    Area: 45 m² Capacity: up to 2 passengers per cabin 30m² private balcony; King-size bed or twin beds

    Notes

    Please Note:
    Fares are based on double occupancy and are capacity controlled. Rates may increase at any time as the ship sells out and subject to change without notice.
    Included
    • 12 Breakfasts, 11 Lunches, 12 Dinners
    • 12 Nights Accommodations
    • Accommodations as listed
    • Ground transportation as listed
    • Activities as listed
    • Meals as listed
    • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
    • Port Fees
    • Unlimited Wifi
    • Onboard Entertainment 
    • Captain’s Welcome Cocktail and Gala Dinner
    • Gratuities to Onboard Crew
    • “Open Bar” (pouring wines, house champagne, alcohol except premium brands...list available upon request)
    • 24h Room Service (special selection)
    • English-Speaking Lecturer 
    • Highly experienced and bilingual (French-English) expedition staff
    • Park Entry Fees into Protected Areas
    • Water sports activities (except scuba diving) using the ship’s equipment, when permitted by local authorities and confirmed by ship Master according to safety and sea conditions onsite. 
    Excluded
    • Travel Insurance
    • Personal Expenses
    • Flight costs (please request a quote)
    • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
    • Visa Fees
    • Optional Excursions - Ponant allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately six to two months prior to the cruise* departure. Please note that this is subject to change. Please contact us for more details.
    • Any ground services before and/or after the cruise other than the ones mentioned
    • Luggage Handling 
    • Laundry Services, Hair Salon, and à La Carte Spa Treatments
    • Pre or post cruise programs, overland programs or shore excursions 
    • Beverages other than the ones mentioned in inclusions
    • CDP recommends that every Traveler has full and adequate travel insurance covering the risks of cancellation, assistance being required, repatriation, damages to and loss of baggage, and medical expenses

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    Our guide and driver were very good with their knowledge and were very helpful with our questions. It was a very pleasant visit that would have been impossible to do on our own. Hotels and restaurants were fantastic. The special places we got to go to, like the kitchens, were great. Enjoyed the entire trip!
    Meyer Smolen

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