Start the voyage in Osaka, a modern, forward-looking city, in the heart of the Japanese archipelago. Discover the magnificent Ritsurin Garden in Takamatsu. Considered to be one of the most beautiful gardens in Japan, designed to blend harmoniously with the surrounding hilly landscapes. Le Lapérouse will then make a port of call at Beppu, Japan’s most famous hot springs to view the sacred sculptures of 60 majestic Buddhas, a national treasure, before heading to the Karatsu Bay. In Nagasaki, visit the Peace Memorial, built in tribute to the victims of the atomic bomb in 1945. Finally set sail for Shanghai, a futuristic city with a thousand faces. In this Chinese megalopolis with contrasting architecture, the spirit of the 1930s still seems to reign over certain streets, particularly in the Bund waterfront area.
Highlights
Discover the culture and ancestral heritage of Japan and China, a mix of tradition and modernity
Visit Classical Gardens of Suzhou, UNESCO World Heritage Site
Explore Shanghai, a modern and cosmopolitan city, blending skyscrapers, gardens and night life
View Osaka, one of the biggest Japanese metropolises
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 gives it a sense of serenity. The main historic landmark is the 16th-century Osaka Castle, which stands proud amid 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.
Day 2: Takamatsu
1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
A former fortified city ruled over by the Matsudaira clan from the Tamamo castle with its seawater moats, the city is home to one of the most beautiful classic gardens in Japan, the Ritsurin. It was created by the barons of the city at the start of the Edo period, during which time gardening became a profession in its own right. Its landscape incorporates Mount Shiun in the background, an example of what is known as the shakkei technique, which uses the surrounding landscapes to increase the beauty of the gardens.
The following optional excursions will be available for an additional charge: Ritsurin Garden & Folk Houses, and Takamatsu Highlights.
Day 3: Beppu, Oita
1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
A favorite destination for the Japanese, Beppu is now famous throughout the Japanese archipelago thanks to its onsen – volcanic hot springs in which people immerse themselves to relax with family or friends. From Beppu, you will set off to discover a lush, peaceful valley in which sit 60 majestic stone Buddhas carved out of the cliff face between the 12th and 14th centuries. Exuding a soothing air of serenity, the Mangetsuji site seems to have drifted off to sleep in the heart of a dense bamboo forest surrounded by rice fields. Recognized as a National Treasure of Japan, this set of sacred sculptures offers travelers a unique, wonderful experience.
The following optional excursions will be available for an additional charge: Yakabei Gorge & Hot Springs, and Meet The Stone Buddha & Hot Springs.
Day 4: Karatsu
1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Karatsu Bay is edged with long sandy beaches and a huge pine forest that was planted over 350 years ago to protect the coast from the winds and tides of the Genkai Sea. From the top of the donjon of Karatsu Castle or Mount Kagami, you will be able to admire magnificent panoramas. In the north of the Higashi-Matsuura Peninsula, the waves have eroded the lava plateau and carved a magnificent natural site, the seven Nanatsugama Caves, out of the basalt. The city of Karatsu is famous for the quality of its pottery, which is influenced by the craftsmanship of nearby Korea. Very fine pieces are displayed in the city’s galleries and at Karatsu Castle, alongside magnificent samurai armour.
The following optional excursions will be available for an additional charge: Scenery Of Karatsu, Traditions Of Karatsu, and Highlights Of Karatsu.
Day 5: Nagasaki
1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Located on the north-west coast of Kyushu, Nagasaki will impress you by its rich heritage. Despite the destruction in 1945, you can visit several ancient sites, including the beautiful 19th-century Catholic Church of Oura and its garden, the sanctuary of Suwa Shrine or several Buddhist temples. A visit to the Atomic Bomb Museum gives you insight into the extent of the damage caused by the nuclear attack. Close by, a walk in the Memorial Peace Park leads you to a collection of objets d'art offered as a gift from Japan to the world.
The following optional excursions will be available for an additional charge: Nagasaki Historical Tour, Ground Zero & Atomic Bomb Museum.
Day 6: At Sea
1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
During your day 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. This day without a port of call will also be an opportunity 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 7: Shanghai
1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Set in the most amazing geographic location, Shanghai has fast become the largest economic and commercial hub in China. Although this futuristic megalopolis is the capital of excess, it still has a soul. See for yourself as you stroll around the Bund district, emblematic of old Shanghai. From here, you can reach People's Square, a must-see vast and luminous space bordered by historical monuments. In the former French concession, you'll be able to appreciate the charm of the most Westernised of Chinese cities: a haven of peace in the heart of an urban jungle!
The following optional excursions will be available for an additional charge: Chinese Acrobatic Show, Garden City Of Suzhou, Modern Faces Of Shanghai, and Ancient Water Town Of Zhujiajiao.
Day 8: Shanghai | Disembark
1 Breakfast
After breakfast aboard the ship, disembark at Shanghai.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
$4,360
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Deluxe Stateroom
Area: 19 m²
Capacity: up to 2 passengers per cabin
4m² Private balcony; King-size bed or twin beds
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Prestige Stateroom Deck 4
Area: 19 m²
Capacity: up to 2 passengers per cabin
4m² private balcony; King-size bed or twin beds
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Prestige Stateroom Deck 5
Area: 19 m²
Capacity: up to 2 passengers per cabin
4m² private balcony; King-size bed or twin beds
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Prestige Stateroom Deck 6
Area: 19 m²
Capacity: up to 2 passengers per cabin
4m² private balcony; King-size bed or twin beds
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Deluxe Suite
Capacity: up to 2 passengers per cabin
6m² private balcony
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Prestige Suite Deck 5
8m² private balcony
King-size bed or twin beds
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Prestige Suite Deck 6
8m² private balcony
King-size bed or twin beds
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Privilege Suite
Area: 32 m²
Capacity: up to 4 passengers per cabin
8m² private balcony; King-size bed or twin beds
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Grand Deluxe Suite
Area: 45 m²
Capacity: up to 2 passengers per cabin
30m² private balcony; King-size bed or twin beds
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Owner's Suite
Area: 45 m²
Capacity: up to 2 passengers per cabin
30m² private balcony; King-size bed or twin beds
Notes
In partnership with the Guimet Museum, the French national museum for Asiatic arts.
*Rates are capacity controlled and are subject to change without notice.
Cruise fares are per person and include the following:
All meals while on board the ship
Captain’s welcome cocktail and gala dinner
Gratuities to onboard crew, local guides and drivers
“Open Bar” (pouring wines, house champagne, alcohol except premium brands...list available upon request)
Evening entertainment and events
24h room service (special selection)
English-speaking lecturer
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
Highly experienced bilingual (French-English) Expedition team
Park entry fees into protected areas
Free and unlimited Wi-Fi (Internet access may be slower or in some situations interrupted, depending on certain geographic locations or other circumstances beyond our control).
Cruise fares do not include:
Any ground services before and/or after the cruise other than the ones mentioned
Pre or post cruise programs, overland programs or shore excursions mentioned
Visa expenses and/or immigration reciprocity taxes if applicable
Luggage handling
Optional Spa package to be booked prior to your departure
Beverages other than the ones mentioned
Laundry services, hair salon, and à la carte Spa treatments
Personal expenses, on board medical consultations and drug prescriptions
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!
