TREASURES OF JAPAN BY SEA

April 5 – 13, 2026

Overview:

In partnership with Smithsonian Journeys, this 9-day PONANT cruise aboard Le Soléal is designed for English-speaking travelers seeking deeper cultural engagement. The experience includes expert-led talks, transfers, and enriching shore excursions in every port.

The journey begins in Osaka and continues to Tamano, home to the renowned Korakuen Garden. In Miyajima, visit the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, followed by a stop in Hiroshima, where you can explore the Peace Memorial or enjoy a sake tasting in Saijo. In Beppu, choose from unique hot spring experiences like the red Chinoike Jigoku or the bubbling Kamado Jigoku.

Next, visit Moji and nearby Kozan-ji Temple, then explore Hagi’s historic samurai streets. In Sakaiminato, options include Matsue Castle, the Adachi Museum of Art, a washi-making demonstration, or Yushien Garden. The cruise concludes in Busan, South Korea, with highlights such as Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, the Busan Museum of Art, Gyeongju’s UNESCO sites, and a traditional Korean tea ceremony.

Interested in more information? Please contact Expedition Easy by calling 1-800-617-2319 or (206) 284-2319. Click here to e-mail the Expedition Easy Team with any questions or interest.

This trip is Operated by Ponant in Collaboration with Smithsonian Journeys

TREASURES OF JAPAN BY SEA

April 5 – 13, 2026

Day-By-Day Itinerary:

Day 1 | OSAKA

Embarkation 4:00PM to 5:00PM

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 give it a sense of serenity. The main historic landmark is the 16th century Osaka Castle, which stands proud in the midst of 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 specialities: takoyaki, made with octopus, and other succulent dishes such as kushikatsu kebabs.

Day 2 | TAMANO

Located on the island of Honshu, hugging the banks of the Sento Inland Sea, Tamano is a popular destination thanks to its sun-drenched climate. Upon arrival, marvel at the way in which the city has been built along the coast at the foot of a deep, dark forest. In the area surrounding Tamano, stroll down the streets of Kurashiki, known as the ‘white-walled city’ in a nod to the pretty façades of the houses that line the streets of this ancient Edo-period trading town. Another major regional attraction is the Seto Ohashi bridge. Its 12.5 kilometres make it the world’s longest double-decker bridge.

Day 3 | MIYAJIMA ISLAND

At the heart of the Inland Sea, Miyajima, the “island sanctuary” will reveal its treasures. In the background you will see the Shinto Grand Sanctuary, whose entrance is guarded by a magnificent vermillion “Torii“. Considered to be one of the most beautiful sites in the Japanese islands, you will be transported by the unique character and the serenity of this sacred site.

Day 4   | BEPPU, OITA

A favourite 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. Recognised as a National Treasure of Japan, this set of sacred sculptures offers travellers a unique, wonderful experience.

Day 5  | MOJI, KITAKYUSHU & CROSSING THE KANMON STRAITS

At the mouth of the Kanmon Straits lies Mojiko, the northernmost port of Kyushu, one of Japan’s four main islands. For many years, Mojiko was the gateway to the island. Today, the old boats are gone, but as you stroll around the picturesque streets you will discover a well-preserved architectural heritage that evokes traditional Japan from the first Meiji era of the late 19th century. From the heights of the Mojiko Retro Observation Room, you can enjoy the amazing views that take in the Shinto shrine and coastal landscape like a postcard of the Land of the Rising Sun.

Sailing in the Kanmon Straits, between the Japanese islands of Honshu and Kyushu, promises an unforgettable experience. During the crossing of this emblematic maritime passage linking the Sea of Japan to the Seto Inland Sea, fall under the spell of this traditional Japan, with its charming picturesque fishing ports and its shrines built in the heart of enchanting nature, between verdant hilly peaks and captivating granite cliffs.

Day 6  | HAGI

In the south of Honshu island, surrounded by mountains, Hagi is a city of water. For good reason; it was built on the delta of the Abu-gawa river. Its castle was built in the 17th century and its outer walls remain in the lovely Shizuki Park. The old town was one of the cradles of the Meiji revolution. You will discover its rich past in streets lined with old houses and samurai manors, or within the walls of the many museums and Hagi-yaki ceramics workshops.

Day 7  | SAKAIMINATO

Located on the south-west coast of Honshu Island, the busy fishing port of Sakaiminato celebrates the comic writer and artist Shigeru Mizuki, who was born here. As well as a museum a dedicated tourist route leads through streets and squares that feature 134 bronze statues representing his beloved characters. This isn’t the only thing Sakaiminato has to offer; try some local seafood specialities and enjoy the stunning views of Mt Daisen and the Yumigahama peninsula.

Day 8-9  | BUSAN

With around four million inhabitants, Busan is the second largest metropolis on South Korea, after Seoul. This dynamic harbour city, located in the south-east, surrounded by the warm waters of the Sea of Japan, benefits from a mild, pleasant climate. You’ll find delightful simply to stroll around the lively streets and explore the city’s outstanding cultural heritage of art galleries, museums, and Buddhist sites, such as the Haedong Yonggungsa temple, which elegantly sits on the waterfront. Rich too in magnificent beaches and superlative natural landscapes, Busan’s peaceful atmosphere will win you over, as will its inhabitants, whom you’ll have the pleasure of meeting.

TREASURES OF JAPAN BY SEA

April 5 – 13, 2026

Rates:

Package Rate based on Per Person Sharing. All Rates are Approximate

Superior Stateroom: $9,410
Deluxe Stateroom: $10,160
Prestige Stateroom: $11,230 – $12,400
Deluxe Suite: $17,080
Prestige Suite: $22,930 – $24,100
Owners Suite: $36,520

– Rates are per person and are based on shared accommodations
– Rates are approximate until the time of booking
– Rates are quoted in USD and subject to change without prior notice
– Rates are based on availability at the time of booking

Included:

  • A program of onboard enrichment provided by two Smithsonian Journeys Experts
  • Transfers and luggage handling from the airport in Osaka to the ship on the day of embarkation
  • Comprehensive 8-night cruise aboard the deluxe Le Soléal, with all the amenities for which PONANT ships are famous
  • One included shore excursion in each port of call (see “Itinerary” for more information and choice of excursions, if applicable)
  • Gratuities for ship crew and for guides and drivers on excursions
  • Transfer from the ship to the airport in Busan at the end of the cruise on the morning of disembarkation

Not Included:

  • Independent meals and beverages ashore
  • Personal expenses (such as laundry, telephone, etc.)

International Airfare:

Africa Easy does not make international air reservations and international air is not included in your quote. However, please do let us know if you would like assistance with booking your international air. We would be happy to put you in touch with our airline partner, Exito Travel to assist you with your international air reservation.

General Information:

– Medical Evacuation insurance is mandatory for travel with Expedition Easy and proof of purchase is required. Expedition Easy also strongly recommends purchasing a policy that includes trip cancellation / interruption coverage.

Deposit & Payments:

A completed & signed Expedition Easy Reservation Form, along with your 25% trip deposit and full regional and/or domestic air payment (if applicable) is required at the time of booking.

Reservations:

This itinerary is subject to the availability of all services at the time of making a reservation. No space is being held at this time. Please contact Expedition Easy for the full terms and conditions that apply. We are happy to answer questions and discuss your trip.

To reserve space on a trip on the Expedition Easy website, please contact Expedition Easy by calling 1-800-617-2319 or (206) 284-2319. Click here to e-mail the Expedition Easy Team.

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April 5 -13, 2026
Operated by Ponant in Collaboration with Smithsonian Journeys