WONDERS OF JAPAN CRUISE
March 17 -30, 2026 / March 30 – April 12, 2026
Overview:
Discover Japan’s vibrant cultural heritage on this 14-day journey across five diverse islands, each offering unique traditions, artistic expressions, and culinary delights. Begin in Osaka, where you’ll board Le Jacques-Cartier, a sleek, modern expedition ship equipped with advanced comforts. Your voyage includes learning bonsai techniques in Takamatsu, exploring historic geisha districts in Kanazawa, and experiencing an exclusive Kodo taiko drumming performance on Sado Island.
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.
WONDERS OF JAPAN CRUISE
March 17 -30, 2026 / March 30 – April 12, 2026
Day-By-Day Itinerary:
Day 1 | OSAKA
Crowned by an awe-inspiring castle, Japan’s third largest city is arguably its coolest. The food is sensational, whether you’re grabbing a bite at a Michelin-starred kappo counter or exploring Dotombori, a neon-lit strip dominated by street-food hawkers.
Day 2 | OSAKA
Dive into your Japan adventure with a visit to Kyoto’s Golden Pavilion and an exploration of Zen Buddhism, a journey to Nara revealing Japan’s oldest temple, or a scenic drive amid Uji’s iconic cherry trees.
Day 3 | EMBARKATION
After exploring more of Osaka or nearby Kobe, board your small explorer ship.
Day 4 | TAKAMATSU
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 will talk to longstanding masters of the ancient art of bonsai care.
Day 5 | MIIYAJIMA & HIROSHIMA
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
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
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.
Day 8 | KARATSU, JAPAN
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.
Day 9 | MATSUE
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.
Day 10 | KANAZAWA
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
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.
Day 12 | AT SEA
Cruise toward Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, making the most of Le Jacques-Cartier’s onboard facilities and the Expedition Team’s enriching lectures.
Day 13 | OTARU
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 | DEPARTURE
Disembark Le Jacques-Cartier in Otaru and transfer to the airport in Sapporo for your homebound flight.
WONDERS OF JAPAN CRUISE
March 17 -30, 2026 / March 30 – April 12, 2026
Rates:
Package Rate based on Per Person Sharing. All Rates are Approximate
Classic Stateroom: $25,695
Single Supplement: $12,855
Deluxe Stateroom: $28,195
Single Supplement: $14,105
Prestige Stateroom: $29,295
Single Supplement: $14,665
Prestige Two-Room Suite: $52,345
Single Supplement: $39,265
– 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:
- English-Speaking Local Guides
- Airport Meet & greet with Transfers
- Complimentary Wi-Fi on Board and in Hotels
- 24/7 A&K On-Call Support
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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March 17-30 / March 30 - April 12, 2026
Operated by Ponant in Collaboration with Smithsonian Journeys
