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South Korea Small Ship Cruises

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Experience the breathtaking cultural and natural wonders of South Korea and Japan with Adventure Life's array of 14 small ship cruises for 2025. Join us on a cruise journey through these captivating lands, from Maizuru to Hakodate, exploring the vast array of experiences that await you. Delve into the rich history and heritage of Japan, from the stunning Kenroku-en Garden to the vibrant Silla culture in Gyeongju. Witness the beauty of modern Japanese paintings and immerse yourself in the tranquility of Buddhist temples in Busan. From local market visits to village explorations and small ship cruising, each moment offers a unique opportunity to discover the treasures of these ancient civilizations and stunning landscapes. Engage in archaeological site visits, cultural experiences, and so much more, all while surrounded by the natural splendor that has inspired travelers for generations. With activities ranging from hiking and wildlife viewing to local market explorations and village visits, this adventure promises a seamless blend of relaxation and discovery, suitable for all. Don't miss this chance to embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of South Korea and Japan. Contact one of Adventure Life's tour specialists for help planning your next seamless trip.
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A young woman walks through a field of flowers
from $10,000
EXPLORE

The Best of Japan

Maizuru to Osaka - 9 Day Itinerary aboard Le Soleal
Starts / Ends
Maizuru / Osaka
Activity Level
Variable
Le Soleal takes you on a 9-day Japan cruise from Maizuru to Osaka to experience the highlights of Japanese cultures, as you make stops in Sakaiminato, Busan (South Korea), Nagasaki, Hiroshima, Okayama, and witness the breathtaking natural beauty and fascinating ancient cultures within a modern, progressive country.
  • Explore the famous Korakuen Gardens
  • Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial
  • See Kagoshima & Sakurajima Volcano
  • Honor the events at Nagasaki
  • Discover medieval Japan
Cruise Details
0
Matsue Castle
from $8,495
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Sacred Japan and South Korea: A Voyage from Osaka to Niigata to Tokyo, Including South Korea

Osaka - Tokyo - 11 Day Itinerary aboard Heritage Adventurer
Starts / Ends
Osaka / Tokyo
Activity Level
Variable
Join this 11-day Sacred Japan and South Korea cruise from Osaka to Tokyo aboard Heritage Adventurer. Discover the historic castle town of Matsue, the ancient town of Hagi, the sacred Miyajima, historic Hiroshima, and more. Explore Japan's ancient heritage and traditional culture in contrast with the world's most advanced technological civilization.
  • Explore Kanazawa's rich arts scene
  • Visit Kanazawa's open air market
  • Try traditional pottery making
  • Visit Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
Cruise Details
0
Sunset over Nagasaki
from $8,815
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Discover the Islands of Japan:An 11-day Voyage of Japan Between Tokyo & Osaka, Including South Korea

Tokyo to Osaka - 11 Day Itinerary aboard Heritage Adventurer
Starts / Ends
Tokyo / Osaka
Activity Level
Variable
Embark on an 11-day cruise through Japan and South Korea aboard the Heritage Adventurer and discover historic sites, UNESCO landmarks, bustling markets, and serene gardens. Travel via bullet train, explore charming villages, visit famous cities like Tokyo, Kanazawa, and Busan, and delve into natural wonders such as Yakushima Island.
  • Explore vibrant Tokyo highlights
  • Visit Matsue Castle
  • Explore Busan's streets and temple
  • Walk among ancient cedar trees
  • Study pearl cultivation in Uwajima
Cruise Details
0
from $8,395
EXPLORE

Eternally Sacred Japan & South Korea: Japan Voyage Between Tokyo and Osaka, incl. South Korea

Tokyo - Osaka - 11 Day Itinerary aboard Heritage Adventurer
Starts / Ends
Osaka / Tokyo
Activity Level
Variable
Join this 11-day Eternally Sacred Japan & South Korea cruise from Tokyo to Osaka aboard Heritage Adventurer. Discover the historic castle town of Matsue, the ancient town of Hagi, the sacred Miyajima, historic Hiroshima, & more. Learn Japan's ancient heritage & traditional culture in contrast with the world's most advanced technological civilization.
  • Explore Kanazawa's rich arts scene
  • Visit Kanazawa's open air market
  • Try traditional pottery making
  • Visit Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
Cruise Details
0
from $8,815
EXPLORE

Discover the Islands of Japan: A 12-day Voyage of Japan Between Tokyo & Osaka, Including South Korea

Tokyo - Osaka - 12 Day Itinerary aboard Heritage Adventurer
Starts / Ends
Tokyo / Osaka
Activity Level
Variable
Discover hidden gems on a 12-day voyage between Tokyo & Osaka aboard Heritage Adventurer. Explore Matsue, Hagi, and Yakushima Island. Visit Uwajima's pearl farms, iconic gardens like Kenroku-en, and delve into Nagasaki's WWII history. Explore Fukuoka and discover South Korea's Gyeongju and Haeinsa Temple.
  • Experience Japan
  • Cruise travel to Matsue, Hagi
  • Visit iconic gardens in Japan
  • Visit Fukuoka and Dazaifu
  • Visit the 'Museum Without Walls'
Cruise Details
0
Mt. Fuji framed by Lake Kawaguchiko and cherry blossoms
from $9,615
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Cherry Blossoms of Japan Cruise

Tokyo to Osaka - 12 Day Itinerary aboard Heritage Adventurer
Starts / Ends
Tokyo / Osaka
Activities
Local Market Visits, Urban Exploration, Archaeological Site Visits, Village Visits, Festival Visits, Small Ship Sailing
Activity Level
Variable
Join a 12-day cherry blossom cruise from Tokyo to Osaka on Heritage Adventurer to explore vibrant cities, historic temples, gardens, and iconic landmarks in full bloom. Visit Mount Fuji, Hiroshima, Fukuoka, and Busan to enjoy local flavors, pearl farms, and Naoshima’s art as you cruise through scenic spring landscapes.
  • Discover Mount Fuji views
  • Explore historic Japanese castles
  • Naoshima’s iconic art experience
  • Taste authentic regional flavors
Cruise Details
0
Cherry blossoms in historic Kyoto
from $15,010
EXPLORE

Japanese Ancestral Traditions and Legendary Shrines

Osaka - Maizuru - 13 Day Itinerary aboard Le Soleal
Starts / Ends
Osaka / Maizuru
Activity Level
Variable
Explore Japanese ancestral traditions and legendary shrines on a 13-day cruise aboard Le Soleal. Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Himeji Castle and Itsukushima Shrine. Traverse Kyushu's landscapes, discover South Korea's Busan and explore historic towns like Hagi and Izumo. Conclude amidst Tottori's sand dunes before disembarking in Maizuru.
  • Discover Himeji’s UNESCO castle
  • Sail to Kyushu to explore Toba
  • Explore the Miyajima Island
  • Experience the contrasts of Busan
Cruise Details
0
Sunset over Nagasaki
from $28,618
EXPLORE

Coastal Japan: Imperial Dynasties and Modern Culture

16 Day Itinerary aboard National Geographic Resolution
Starts / Ends
Osaka / Kyoto
Activities
Hiking
Activity Level
Variable
Experience a 16-day expedition aboard the National Geographic Resolution, exploring Japan and South Korea's cultural and historic sites. Visit Himeji Castle, Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Park, Naoshima's art attractions, and Gyeongju's ancient temples. Discover samurai heritage in Matsue, scenic gardens, and traditional villages.
  • Enjoy castles and samurai district
  • Discover ancient ruins of Gyeongju
  • Visit Matsue's art museum
  • See Naoshima, the art-filled island
  • Tour three Japanese gardens
Cruise Details
0
Sunset over Nagasaki
from $13,400
EXPLORE

Authentic Japan

Busan to Osaka - 13 Day Itinerary aboard Le Soleal
Starts / Ends
Busan / Osaka
Activity Level
Variable
Embark on a 13-day Japan cruise aboard Le Soleal and experience authentic Japanese traditions and local specialties. Explore cultural landmarks, historical castles, serene gardens, and sacred sites.
  • Explore Busan’s cultural treasures
  • Visit Nagasaki’s heritage landmarks
  • Tour Himeji’s iconic castle
  • View Takamatsu’s famous gardens
Cruise Details
0
Classical Noh dance-drama
from $12,795
EXPLORE

Japan's National Parks, Art and Culture

Honshu, Osaka to Osaka - 16 Day Itinerary aboard Heritage Adventurer
Starts / Ends
Osaka / Osaka
Activities
Wildlife Viewing
Activity Level
Variable
Join this 16-day Japan's National Parks, Art, and Culture expedition cruise from Osaka to Osaka, including South Korea, aboard Heritage Adventurer. An unforgettable circumnavigation of Japan's main island, Honshu, and exploration of its wilderness, arts, culture, and rich history.
  • Visit Kanazawa's center of the arts
  • See wildlife in Izu Oshima Islands
  • See iconic landmarks of Miyajima
  • Visit Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
Cruise Details
0
Osaka Tower and Shinsekai district
from $8,590
EXPLORE

The Best of Japan

Osaka - Busan - 9 Day Itinerary aboard Le Soleal
Starts / Ends
Osaka / Busan
Activity Level
Variable
Embark on a 9-day cruise aboard Le Soleal, exploring Japan’s rich heritage and natural wonders. Visit iconic sites like Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial, Miyajima’s Itsukushima Shrine, and Kagoshima’s historic Chiran.
  • Explore Osaka's vibrant districts
  • Stroll Tamano's coastal charm
  • Marvel at Miyajima's Torii
  • Visit Hiroshima's Peace Memorial
Cruise Details
0
Explore colorful Tokyo
from $48,990
2for1
EXPLORE

Japan & South Korea In Depth

Tokyo - Osaka - 18 Day Itinerary aboard Scenic Eclipse II
Starts / Ends
Tokyo / Osaka
Activity Level
Variable
Discover the rich cultures, traditions, and landscapes of Japan and South Korea on this 18-day aboard the Scenic Eclipse II. Starting in Tokyo and sailing south through the Seto Inland Sea to the east coast of South Korea, this journey offers an unforgettable exploration of history and culture.
  • Explore Uno
  • Experience Toba
  • Discover Shimizu
  • Explore Tokyo
Cruise Details
0
Hiroshima Peace Memorial or Atomic Bomb Dome
from $9,410
EXPLORE

Treasures of Japan by Sea – with Smithsonian Journeys

9 Day Itinerary aboard Le Soleal
Starts / Ends
Osaka / Busan
Activity Level
Variable
Explore Japan and South Korea’s highlights on a 9-day cruise aboard Le Soleal. Visit iconic sites like Miyajima’s Torii Gate, Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial, and Beppu’s hot springs. Walk Hagi's samurai streets and enjoy the art in Sakaiminato. Discover Busan’s temples and UNESCO sites with expert-led talks and enriching excursions.
  • Visit Hiroshima Peace Memorial
  • Relax in Beppu hot spring area
  • Enjoy Busan coastal city views
  • Experience Hagi samurai history sit
Cruise Details
0
Osaka's city lights after sunset
from $12,670
EXPLORE

Authentic Japan

Osaka to Busan - 13 Day Itinerary aboard Le Soleal
Starts / Ends
Osaka / Busan
Activity Level
Variable
Embark on a 13-day cruise across Japan and South Korea aboard Le Soleal, starting in Osaka and ending in Busan. Explore iconic destinations like Himeji Castle, Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Park, and Miyajima's Torii Gate.
  • Explore Busan’s cultural treasures
  • Explore Osaka's vibrant cityscape
  • Tour Himeji’s iconic castle
  • View Takamatsu’s famous gardens
Cruise Details
0
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