One of the richest cultures in the world, Japanese civilization can be traced back 16,000 years. Once quite isolated from the rest of the world, many unique art forms have thrived here as a result. Pottery and porcelain are some of the oldest craft forms in Japan. Discover the vibrant art scene of Kanazawa, renowned for its Kutani-style pottery, exquisite lacquerware, gold-leaf craftsmanship, hand-painted silk, and classical Noh dance-drama traditions dating back to the 14th century. In Hagi, wander through its pottery stores and workshops, each one a testament to the legacy of this ancient art form. At Yakumo-mura village, delve into the intricate craft of Japanese paper-making, where tradition and innovation intertwine to create stunning works of art. At Yoshika Taibi Memorial Museum outside Hagi, marvel at its vast collection of Hagiyaki pottery—a cherished symbol of elegance and refinement during the illustrious Edo period. And at the National Museum in Ulsan, South Korea, admire the exquisite beauty of gold jewelry, formidable metal weapons, and unique pottery.

High-tech, high-rise and high octane, many Japanese and Southeast Asian cities are advanced metropolises, infused with the energy of possibility. Japan’s cities offer you a glimpse into the future, as automated services, robots and smart electronics are common: experience modern engineering at its finest and most practical. Tokyo greets you with neon lights and soaring skyscrapers, offering an unforgettable, ultra-modern experience. Experience the thrill of the Shinkansen, Japan's 'bullet train,' with speeds up to 320 kilometers per hour. In Osaka, modern architecture harmonizes with history, as a significant 16th-century castle stands amidst parkland, framed by contemporary skyscrapers in the backdrop. Vying to be coined Japan’s 'Silicon Valley,' Fukuoka is spearheading the "Fukuoka Smart East" initiative, aiming to cultivate innovation and sustainable development using advanced technologies and pioneering concepts, ultimately ensuring its residents enjoy comfortable, high-quality lifestyles.

The Japanese archipelago has thousands of islands for exploration, from the northern Sea of Okhotsk to the East China Sea in the south. The climate varies greatly, with cooler climes up north and tropical blue waters down south. On Shikoku Island, learn about the traditional process of cultivating and harvesting pearls. Izu Oshima Island has a rich natural and human history, with Mount Mihara towering at its center and dramatic cliffs to the east. Certified as a Japan Geopark in 2010, Oshima is mostly forested and hosts unique plant and bird species. Discover remote Sado Island off the coast of Niigata, home the Japanese Crested Ibis, iconic taraibune tub boats, vibrant cultural performances and Samurai warrior history. Discover Sado Island, home to the Japanese Crested Ibis, iconic taraibune tub boats and vibrant cultural performances. Dogojima Island, the largest of the Oki Islands in the Sea of Japan, is a picturesque gem within the Daisen-Oki National Park and a UNESCO-registered Global Geopark. Its breathtaking coastal scenery feature clear water beaches, towering cliffs, and ancient sacred sites.

First established in 1931, Japan’s National Parks are awe-inspiring places of scenic beauty, and not limited to one type of environment. Volcanoes, forests, marshes, beaches and coastlines create pristine landscapes where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of the wild. Shikotsu-Toya National Park, named after its famous twin caldera lakes, is a picturesque natural hot spot featuring volcanic hot springs. Taroko National Park is a 19-kilometre-long canyon with its namesake Marble Gorge. Spectacular marble walls here soar to 91 metres high, surrounded by verdant green bamboo forests. Set across the turquoise waters of the Lingayen Gulf, Hundred Islands National Park presents white sand beaches lapped by tranquil crystal clear waters, caves, fascinating limestone cliffs and rock formations, coral reefs teeming with marine life. Considered one of Japan’s finest gardens, Ritsurin Park is set against the backdrop of Mt. Shiun. Ponds, trees and pavilions abound in the garden, that’s best witnessed in the morning 

Japan’s cuisine is a worldwide favorite: being plant, vegetable and seafood based, it’s delicious, light and healthy. Evolved over centuries, the food scene continues to develop. Sample national delicacies in Japan’s restaurants that range from mobile food stands to centuries old ryotei, atmospheric old drinking places. Sake, an alcoholic beverage made from rice, uses an ancient tradition of fermentation science perfected over the centuries. Osaka is one of the best cities in Japan for food aficionados – in fact, it’s branded as Tenka no daidokoro – “the country’s kitchen.” Many restaurants in Japan are teppanyaki-style, which involves the chef using a flat iron griddle to prepare the meal, most often at your dining table. Tokyo’s food scene is vibrant, making it the perfect place to savor real tempura, soba and sushi during your visit.

Japanese Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines are centuries-old sanctuaries of calm, open to be discovered. Feel the peace and tranquility of Inari Shrines, often marked by the presence of a striking vermillion red sacred gate, known as a torii. Such a gate is prominent at Miyamjima, where the local famous giant torii gate appears to float over the water at high tide. The city is home to the Itsukushima Shrine, also built over water. Admire the views before taking time in quiet contemplation while honoring the dwelling place of the kami, the Shinto “gods.” In Hagi’s Teramachi District, find Tokoji Temple – also known as the “Ninja Temple.” An oasis of serenity set among the trees, it belongs to the Obaku school of Zen Buddhism. The peaceful surrounds are the location of a burial site in honor of the city’s lords who passed during the Edo period. Visit the beautiful Akama Shinto Shrine built to honour drowned child Emperor Antoku and, in South Korea, discover Haeinsa Temple in Masan, one of the three great temples in Korea.

More than 100 castles remain in Japan today, though many of these are reconstructions. There are only twelve surviving castles from the Edo time period, referred to as “original'' castles. Dating back to the 16th century, the warrior Oda Nobunaga first built Azuchi Castle, distinctly recognized stone walls and castle tower – leading to hundreds more constructed in this style. Today, Uwajima Castle is one of the remaining twelve originals, offering spectacular panoramic views of the harbor and Samurai-era Tenshaen Garden. Built by Takatora Todo, the castle features steep stone steps, wooden interiors and bay scenery. In Matsue, the dark exterior of Matsue Castle has earned it the nickname the “black castle.” Perched high on a hill, the castle was built in 1611 with a moat and thick walls for protection in the event of war. In Osaka, discover Osaka Castle, an iconic landmark of Japan, and immerse yourself in the captivating tales of warlords and the rich history of Osaka.

The climate diversity in Japan translates to a rich cornucopia of wildlife and plants, making it home to some astonishingly rare and endemic species. Lakes, ponds and volcanic wonderlands are a refuge for wild creatures. Shikotsu-Toya National Park is renowned for its twin caldera lakes, breathtaking scenery, hot springs, and volcanic wonders. The eco-paradise and UNESCO World Heritage Site of Yakushima Island is home to the world-famous Japanese Cedar, almost 2,000 species of flora, Yakushima sika deer and around 12,000 Yakushima macaques. Explore Daisen-Oki National Park, steeped in beauty and home of rare flora and fauna including the giant salamander. Asiatic black bears, squirrels, foxes and birds roam free in Niigata’s Bandai-Asahi National Park, while over 200 species of birds flourish in Fukushimagata Wetlands, including Tundra swans, Northern Lapwings and the greatest concentration of Eastern Taiga Bean geese. 

For 40 years, Heritage Expeditions has pioneered voyages to some of the most wild and biologically rich regions on the planet. Our mission is to increase awareness and conservation of the natural world through responsible expedition travel.

Our team of naturalists, historians, biologists and ornithologists bring an enormous wealth of experience, knowledge and passion to our expeditions, both in the field and onboard our ship during our lecture series.

Our new flagship, the 140-guest Heritage Adventurer, combines the highest passenger ship iceclass rating with an international flair and luxury amenities. Enjoy spacious suites, elegant common areas and cuisine prepared by top chefs.

Heritage Adventurer is a true pioneering expedition vessel of exceptional pedigree. Setting a peerless standard in authentic expedition travel, Heritage Adventurer (formerly known as MS Hanseatic) brings an impressive history of Polar exploration. Having held records for the most northern and southern Arctic and Antarctic navigations, and for traversing both the Northwest and Northeast Passages, makes Heritage Adventurer perfect for our signature expeditions. Originally designed for 184 guests, Heritage Adventurer now welcomes just 140 expeditioners ensuring spacious, stylish and comfortable voyages, while a fleet of 14 Zodiacs ensures all guests are able to maximise their expedition adventure. 

Indulge in an awe-inducing Observation Lounge with library, bar and sweeping 270-degree views, or relax the Oberservation Deck with 360-degree views and comfortable sun loungers. Reinvigorate in the heated salt water pool, well-equipped gym, enclosed hot tub, sauna and steam room. Savor daily international gourmet cuisine from talented chefs across two lavish restaurants, and settle into spacious and well-appointed accommodations each night.

Year Built: 1991

Shipyard: Rauma, Finland

Classification: Lloyds 1AS, GL E4

Accommodation: 140 guests

Length: 124 metres

Beam: 18 metres

Draft: 4.97 metres

Gross Tonnage: 8,378gt

Engines: 3,940 horsepower (x2)

Maximum Speed: 15 knots

Cruising Speed: 12 knots

Range: 8,600 nautical miles

Zodiacs: 14