Set out on a 14-day small-ship cruise exploring Japan and South Korea aboard Le Jacques-Cartier. Begin in Osaka with time to explore local food markets and nightlife. Visit historic sites in Kyoto, Nara, or Uji before boarding the ship. Walk through Takamatsu’s gardens or meet bonsai growers, then visit Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial and Miyajima’s floating shrine. In Kitakyushu, tour a samurai castle or explore nearby caves. Stop in South Korea’s Busan, with the option to visit ancient Gyeongju. Return to Japan to see Karatsu’s castle, traditional crafts in Matsue, and geisha districts in Kanazawa. End in Otaru with options for sake tasting or a day in Sapporo.
Highlights
Witness Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial and floating Itsukushima Shrine
Learn the art of bonsai in Takamatsu
Enjoy sake tastings in Otaru with mountain views
Experience geisha and taiko performances in Kanazawa and Sado-ga-Shima
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
Arrive in Osaka, Japan’s third-largest city, recognized for its historic castle and active city life. Try local food, from Michelin-rated kappo restaurants to casual street vendors in Dotonbori, a busy area known for its neon signage.
Overnight: The Ritz-Carlton, Osaka
Day 2: Osaka, Japan
1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch
Start your Japan journey with a visit to Kyoto’s Golden Pavilion and a look into Zen Buddhism, a trip to Nara to see Japan’s oldest temple, or a scenic drive through Uji, known for its cherry blossoms.
Wake up in the port town of Takamatsu, the gateway to Shikoku island, where visitors can wander through Ritsurin Garden, an intricately landscaped park known for its meticulously designed ponds and springtime cherry blossoms. Shodoshima, the heart of Japan’s olive-growing industry, is a short boat ride away and has excellent walking trails among the groves. You can also visit Kinashi Bonsai Village, where you talk to longstanding masters of the ancient art of bonsai care.
Day 5: Miyajima and Hiroshima | Shrines and Solemn Memorials
Miyajima is home to the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, with a pier-like structure that appears to float over Matsushima Bay. After visiting the shrine, linger in Miyajima to explore Mount Mizen or continue on to Hiroshima. Few people leave this intriguing city without a better understanding of the impact of the atomic bomb, dropped here in 1945 — be it through the moving Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum or during a moment’s pause in the stirring Peace Memorial Garden.
Day 6: Kitakyushu | In the Footsteps of the Samurai
Today, explore the sights of Kitakyushu, a port city renowned for its samurai history and classic gardens. Experience a microcosm of Kitakyushu at Kokura Castle. In the shadow of the castle’s imposing white tower, a small, tranquil garden leads to a mansion where samurai once trained. Alternatively, venture into Japan’s largest limestone caves at Akiyoshidai Quasi-National Park.
Day 7: Busan, South Korea | Exploring Distant Shores
Disembark in South Korea’s second city, Busan, home to seaside temples, jade-green mountains and color-splashed cafés. Delve deeper into Busan or continue on to Gyeongju, the former capital of the ancient Silla kingdom. Here, palaces stand over quiet lily ponds and royal tombs that harbor gilded treasures. Return to the ship for a rousing traditional musical performance at the pier.
Karatsu Castle is a dazzling 17th-century keep rearing above Karatsu Bay in blinding white with elegant black trim. Explore the castle’s manicured grounds or venture to nearby Imari. This is the birthplace of Imari ware, expertly handcrafted porcelain showcased in museums, galleries and pottery shops — the perfect spot in which to pick up an ornately enameled tea set.
Bucolic Matsue is a patchwork of gleaming waterways and emerald swatches of peaceful countryside. The Adachi Museum of Art is the big draw, comprising six sprawling gardens and around 1,500 exhibits of rare Japanese artworks. A visit to Yakuma-mura village is brilliant for learning about the noble art of Japanese papermaking from a veritable master.
History comes alive among the twisted acer branches of Kanazawa, a glorious coastal city far from the bustling tourist trails. Here, explore Kenrokuen Garden, a 17th-century oasis with tranquil paths, graceful arched bridges and serene waterways. At Omicho Market, experience the city’s bustling hub for local seafood and fresh produce. Then, visit the historic geisha houses of the Higashi Chaya-gai district. Alternatively, hike Kakusenkei Gorge and soak in a soothing onsen (hot spring), cook with a local chef, or explore the Shogawa River valley. This evening, attend an exclusive geisha performance.
Day 11: Sado-Ga-Shima | Rich History and Serene Nature
Today, Le Jacques-Cartier docks at Sado Island, framed by crystal-clear waters and pristine countryside. Take in an exclusive performance by Kodo taiko drummers, followed by a trip to the Hakusanmaru Exhibition Hall and the Ogi Folk Museum, home to a fascinating collection of more than 30,000 objects from the Showa period.
Cruise toward Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, making the most of Le Jacques-Cartier’s onboard facilities and the Expedition Team’s enriching lectures.
Otaru — known for its sinuous canals, old distilleries, historical architecture and views of Mount Tengu — has grown from a small but prosperous fishing village into the jewel of Hokkaido. It’s a great spot for drink enthusiasts, with visits to sake distilleries on offer. Alternatively, explore nearby Sapporo’s parks, landmarks and market.
Day 14: Otaru | Disembark | Return Home
1 Breakfast
Disembark Le Jacques-Cartier in Otaru and transfer to the airport in Sapporo for your homebound flight.
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.
$25,695
Rates are dynamic and fluctuate based on capacity. Contact us for a specific quote.
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Classic Stateroom
Classic Stateroom offers a comfortable and well-appointed space measuring 204 sq ft (19 sq m), with an additional 43 sq ft (4 sq m) private balcony. It features a flat-screen TV, minibar, Nespresso machine, bathrobes, slippers, and a selection of bath products.
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Deluxe Stateroom
Deluxe stateroom offers 204 sq ft (19 sq m) of interior space, complemented by a 43 sq ft (4 sq m) private balcony. Located on a higher deck, it provides wider, more expansive views. The room is equipped with a flat-screen TV, minibar, Nespresso machine, bathrobes, slippers, and a selection of bath products for added comfort.
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Prestige Stateroom
Prestige stateroom features 204 sq ft (19 sq m) of interior space along with a 43 sq ft (4 sq m) private balcony. Positioned to offer wider views, it includes a TV, minibar, Nespresso machine, and a range of bath amenities for a comfortable stay.
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Deluxe Suite
Deluxe suite offers 290 sq ft (27 sq m) of interior space, complemented by a 65 sq ft (6 sq m) private balcony. Includes standard amenities plus butler service, welcome Champagne, nightly canapés, and packing/unpacking on request. Offers more space and added services.
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Privilege Suite
Privilege Suite features 344 sq ft (32 sq m) of interior space and an 86 sq ft (8 sq m) private balcony. It includes a larger living area, butler service, and additional amenities. Offers more space and personalized service.
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Prestige Two-Room Suite
The Prestige Two-Room Suite offers 409 sq ft (38 sq m) of interior space, along with an 86 sq ft (8 sq m) private balcony. This suite includes butler service, welcome Champagne, and a range of added services. It is designed for guests seeking more space and enhanced convenience.
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Grand Deluxe Suite
This spacious suite features 484 sq ft (45 sq m) of interior space and an expansive 322 sq ft (30 sq m) private balcony. It includes a large outdoor area, full butler service, premium bath products, and a range of additional amenities. Ideal for guests seeking more space and convenient outdoor access.
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Owner’s Suite
This is the largest suite on the ship, offering 484 sq ft (45 sq m) of interior space and an expansive 430 sq ft (40 sq m) private balcony—the biggest on board. It includes all standard amenities, personal butler service, in-suite extras, and wide views.
Notes
• Minimum age: 7 years old
• Dynamic, capacity-controlled rates
• Routes may change based on weather
• Complimentary Wi-Fi included
• Traveller’s Valet laundry service included
• Optional pre-/post-tour extensions available
Initial deposit is $2500, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 130 days prior to departure by Check, Wire Transfer or all major Credit Cards “All final payments by credit card may be subject to a surcharge and maximum of $20,000 charge.”
Kate was great to work with in the planning stage. She was prompt, helpful, and efficient. Our tour guide, Edwin, was knowledgeable and passionate. We were very happy to have traveled with Adventure Life, it made the trip easy and a true pleasure. We could concentrate on enjoying the experience rather than the details of travel.
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