Itinerary

Osaka, Takamatsu Shikoku, Hiroshima & Miyajima, Beppy, Hagi, Senzaki, Ulsan, Busan, Matsue, Maizuru, Kanazawa/Tokyo

Description

Pricing based on departure date: 11 April 2026.

Embark on a breathtaking small-ship adventure along the coast of Japan and South Korea while enjoying comfortable accommodation and delicious cuisine on our premium vessel Heritage Adventurer. Glittering temples set among ancient landscape gardens offer serene respite from bustling cities, while a variety of enjoy included shore excursions offer deeper insights into the destinations visited, including Kyoto, Hiroshima, Matsue Castle and Hagi Castle Town.

Trip Inclusions

Discover the inclusions provided on your tour, ensuring a stress-free journey where every detail is taken care of.

• Nine nights aboard the Heritage Adventurer
• 27 meals - 9 breakfasts, 9 lunches, 9 dinners
• Explore 10 towns, villages and cities
• Services of a Travelmarvel Cruise Director and Travelmarvel Cruise Host
• Visit Japan in spring with chances to view Cherry Blossoms throughout your cruise
• Visit historically significant Hiroshima
• Delve into the history of feudal Japan with visits to Matsue Castle and Hagi Castle Town

Itinerary Highlights:

Takamatsu

Visit Shikoku Mura, an open-air museum located at the base of Yashima, showcasing traditional buildings and structures relocated from across Shikoku Island. Set within a scenic hillside park, the museum features Edo- and Meiji-period farmhouses, storehouses, and workshops that once produced goods like sugar and soy sauce.

Continue to Ritsurin Garden, one of Japan’s largest and most celebrated historic strolling gardens, dating back over 400 years. Originally created during the Edo period for the pleasure of feudal lords, the garden is now considered a national treasure. Set against the scenic backdrop of Mount Shiun, it features six serene ponds, arched timber bridges, a traditional teahouse, and seasonal plantings, including cherry blossoms and maple trees that offer year-round colour and beauty.

Hiroshima, Miyajima Island

Board your coach and drive to poignant Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, commemorating the victims of the atomic bomb that was dropped on the city in 1945. Afterwards, you'll visit the Peace Memorial Museum, designed by renowned architect Tange Kenzo, to learn about the history of Hiroshima before and after the bombing, through a fascinating display of photos and films. Return to the ship for lunch on board.

Later, board your Zodiac for a short ride to Miyajima Island, renowned for its harmonious blend of nature and culture and considered a sacred by many Japanese. Venture on a scenic walk to Itsukushima-jinja Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site considered one of the three most scenic spots in all ofJapan. Discover the intricacies of this Shinto shrine, from the iconic red "floating" Otorii gate, set against a mountainous backdrop, to the delicate details of the Honden (main hall). Spring is marked by an explosion of cherry blossoms, while Autumn foliage dazzles with crimson and burnished tones. Miyajima Island delights visitors with seasonal splendour throughout the year.

Matsue

Delve into the history of Japan with a visit to Matsue Castle, one of the 12 original castles of the feudal era, meaning that it survived the various fires, earthquakes and anti-feudal demolitions of the Meiji Period. It's also known as the "black castle" for the dark-coloured stone used for its construction.

Afterwards, enjoy a short walk to nearby Matsue History Museum, set alongside the moat below Matsue Castle. Designed to resemble a samurai residence, with an Edo exterior and a modern interior, the museum offers an in-depth view of the history and culture of the 400-year castle and the town that formed around it.

Tour Highlights

These are carefully crafted experiences designed to take your holiday from amazing to extraordinary.

High-Speed Bullet Train Journey

Embark on a high-speed train journey, a thrilling and efficient way to travel in Asia.

Cherry Blossom Season

Experience Japan during cherry blossom season, locally known as 'Sakura'. Witness locals promenading to admire the stunning blooms and picnicking with family and friends under the ethereal beauty of the cherry blossom trees.

Your Ship: Heritage Adventurer

Heritage Adventurer is a true pioneering expedition vessel of exceptional pedigree often referred to as the ‘Grande Dame of Exploration Cruising’.

Originally designed to accommodate 184 guests, we now welcome just 140 expeditioners to create a spacious, comfortable on board experience and continuation of the exceptional, personalised expedition experience synonymous with the company. A fleet of 14 Zodiacs ensures all guests are able to maximise their expedition experience. On board, enjoy stylish, sophisticated accommodations spanning 4 decks, visit the captain and crew in the Bridge with our Open Bridge Policy and dine on gourmet fare from leading chefs. Watch your adventure unfold from numerous spectacular indoor and outdoor viewing locations including Heritage Adventurer’s famed Observation Lounge resplendent with 270-degree views and join our world-renowned team of naturalists, botanists, historians and experts as they interpret the natural and human history discovered during each voyage, as well as hosting regular lectures. And should you require a little R&R, unwind in the library, pool, gym, hot tub, sauna and steam room, indulge in some retail therapy or find a quiet place to enjoy a coffee or cocktail from the café and bar.