Heritage Expeditions, pioneers in authentic small ship expedition cruising, invite you to join them on an unfort exploration of Japan, ‘the Land of the Rising Sun’. Set sail on this voyage to experience medieval castles and temples, magical gardens, beautiful landscapes, and discover a strong cultural history. Our explorations take us beyond the well-known highlights to remote stretches of coastline and islands tourists rarely have the opportunity to experience, all made possible on our purpose-built expedition ship Heritage Adventurer.

A country rich in history and tradition, Japan seamlessly blends ancient customs with ultramodern living which we will experience as we cruise from iconic cities to remote coastlines and islands. Our intended destinations are designed to showcase contemporary cities and modern museums alongside medieval castles and shrines from the Edo-period, culturally rich islands and fascinating wilderness and wildlife. Historical highlights include the five-storey Pagoda of Miyajima, the 17th Century Matsue Castle and the sobering Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park with its eternal Flame of Peace.

There is also the opportunity to explore traditional art through visiting galleries and meeting local artists including learning the fascinating art of Japanese paper making on our visit to the town of Matsue and a day in South Korea’s Ulsan visiting the fascinating UNESCO World Heritage Site Gyeongju – the ‘museum without walls’ among other highlights. We’ll also moor at Uwajima, one of Japan’s premier pearl producers with the opportunity to visit one of the city’s traditional pearl farms.

For those with a passion for nature we plan to venture into several national parklands, observe wildlife and experience the swathes of colourful flowers in bloom. As well as exploring the famed flower farms of Hokkaido, the tranquil Tenshaen Garden built in the Samurai era, Kinashi, one of Japan’s leading bonsai centres, and impressive Edo-period Kenrokuen Garden (one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan) we plan to visit rarelyvisited destinations including the Japanese microcosm of Sado Island.

We hope you can join us for this rare opportunity to join this in-depth exploration around the coastline and islands of Japan, as we discover the unspoiled nature, primeval wilderness, incredible gardens, cultural treasures, traditional villages and futuristic cities resplendent with their unique charms.