Islands of Japan & South Korea: All-Inclusive Heritage Expeditions Cruise with Tokyo Stay, Bullet Train & Return Flights
Discover the grandeur of Japan and South Korea’s heritage in full spring on this 11-night small-ship luxury expedition. Your experience begins with included economy class return flights from select Australian cities to Tokyo for a three-night five-star pre-cruise stay beginning 2 May 2025.
After soaking up the city sights, take your included bullet train transfer to the port of Kanazawa on 5 May 2025, embarking on your springtime adventure across the sea. Set sail to storied Hiroshima, Miyajima and beyond, uncovering Japan’s history and native wildlife.
Glide past unspoiled landscapes steeped in legend, including Gyeongju, South Korea where you’ll uncover the UNESCO-listed heritage of the ‘Golden City’ that once ruled the Korean Silla empire. See the diverse flora of Yakushima, Japan’s first UNESCO-listed site, during nature walks across this southern isle.
Set off on your escapades with the use of Zodiac tender vessels on included excursions, then recline in comfort aboard your exclusive vessel, where you’ll be treated to all-inclusive meals and unlimited pours of select drinks throughout your sailing. Then, disembark and head home in style on included return flights.
Your journey takes you from Australia to: Tokyo – Kanazawa – Matsue – Hagi – Ulsan – Fukuoka – Nagasaki – Yakushima – Uwajima – Kurashiki – Osaka – Australia.
The Highlights – From iconic Tokyo to Osaka with stops along Japan’s stunning coast
Set sail on a captivating cruise around Japan, starting with three nights in lively Tokyo. Then set off from the port of Kanazawa to discover this island county’s rich landscapes and islands.
In your first port, visit the impressive Edo-period Kenrokuen Garden, one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan, and explore the Omicho Market boasting everything from flowers, to crafts and food. Then explore the historic castle town of Matsue and the ancient streets of Hagi.
The journey includes a day in South Korea’s Ulsan, exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site Gyeongju and the renowned Haeinsa Temple, and a stop on tranquil Yakushima Island, known for its towering mountains and ancient forests.
Experience the Yuushien Peony Festival and the Kawachi Wisteria Garden in Fukuoka and visit the 16th-century Dazaifu Tenmangu, one of Japan’s most important Shinto shrines. You’ll even visit Uwajima, famed for its traditional pearl farms, and marvel at the iconic Kenroku-en and Koraku-en gardens.
Heritage Adventurer – Small-ship sailing with an intimate group of like-minded travellers
Your small-ship expedition takes place on Heritage Adventurer (max. 140 guests) – a multi-faceted expedition ship designed to access the shores of remote wildernesses, often inaccessible to large cruise vessels. A true icon in expedition cruising, the Heritage Adventurer is revered as the ‘Grande Dame of Expedition Cruising’ due to its distinguished history and refined design.
Purpose-built to take you closer to unspoiled vistas in comfort, style and safety, the ship carries Zodiac vessels, specially designed for remote sites and natural habitats. Your journey of discovery is further enhanced by expert guides and guest lecturers, and directed by local crew members who know the region intimately.
Indulge in freshly prepared cuisine featuring the best local ingredients, relax and enjoy a selection of local beers and wines at one of the bars, discover more about the places you’ve seen in the reference library and take in a lecture in the lounge, where daily expedition briefings and presentations are ready to engage and amaze you.
The Staterooms – Your private oasis with a view to the world outside
Heritage Expedition’s stylish staterooms marry modern design with innovative storage solutions for the ultimate in cruising comfort. Expect king-size beds (which can be converted into twin singles), housekeeping service, premium custom-blended bath products and more.
Deck 4 Superior Stateroom: Situated on Deck 4, this elegant stateroom features a heavenly king or twin beds where you can recharge after a day of adventure, along with a private ensuite and a picture window, to make sure you don’t miss a moment of the passing scenery.
Deck 5 Superior Stateroom: Situated on Deck 5, the picture window this elegant stateroom features an even broader view.
Main Deck Single Stateroom: Step inside a stylish and cosy stateroom made just for one, located on the Main Deck and furnished with a plush king bed. Modern comforts include a wardrobe, sofa, desk and private ensuite, and two porthole windows for you to gaze at the gorgeous landscapes.
Superior Single Stateroom: Retreat to this enhanced private sanctuary made for one, featuring a large panoramic window.
Worsley Suite: Located on Deck 6, Worsley Suites feature large panoramic windows, king or two single beds, a comfortable chaise-lounge, a writing desk, an ensuite bathroom with shower, ample storage and a flat-screen entertainment system.
Heritage Suite: Discover the true meaning of cruising in luxury, with large double panoramic windows, a full lounge area with a sofa, coffee table and chairs, a grand marble bathroom with double basin, bathtub and shower, floor-to-ceiling storage and a flat-screen entertainment system.
- Bistro Dining Room
- Bar & Lounge
- Observation Lounge
- Pool
- Fitness centre
- Jacuzzi
- Health, Wellbeing & Beauty Area
- Sauna
- Steam room
- Open Bridge policy
- Onboard library
- Gift shop
- Zodiac vessels
- Wi-Fi
Surcharges may apply to select facilities and services
Your journey begins in Tokyo and ends in Osaka, with three nights of pre-cruise accommodation in Tokyo.
Your cruise boards in Kanazawa on Day 4 (5 May 2025) and arrives in Osaka on Day 14 (15 May 2025). A bullet train transfer from Tokyo to Kanazawa is included on Day 4 only. Departure and arrival times will be advised prior to travel dates; please ensure you arrive in time for boarding.
Return international economy class flights from Sydney (SYD), Melbourne (MEL), Perth (PER) and Brisbane (BNE) to Tokyo Narita International Airport (NRT) and from Osaka International Airport (KIX) are included in your package. Departures from other cities are available for a surcharge. Please see the ‘Fine Print’ for details.
Arrival airport transfers and departure cruise port to airport transfers are not included, please plan accordingly.
A visa may be required for the destination you are visiting. It is each traveller’s responsibility to ensure they are holding a current visa. Please take the time to visit our preferred vendor website Visas Direct to assist you with any visa application requirements and processes. If you require any supporting documentation when applying for your visa please let us know and we would be more than happy to assist. Click here to visit the website.
Need flights? Our dedicated flights concierge can assist with your flight requirements (subject to availability). Contact sales@luxuryescapes.com.
Day 1: Tokyo, Japan
Konichwa and welcome to Japan. Your journey begins as you depart Australia on your included flight to Tokyo.
Touchdown at Tokyo Narita International Airport (NRT), pass through customs and immigration and make your own way to five-star The Westin Tokyo. You’ll find that the wonders of Japan are even more delightful when you’re ensconced in the comfort and luxury afforded by this centrally located hotel.
Accommodation: The Westin Tokyo (King Room) or similar
Day 2: Tokyo
Enjoy a full day in Tokyo to explore one of Asia’s most fascinating metropolises. In between the ultra-modern skyscrapers, discover pockets of history in the form of ancient shrines and tranquil gardens in Asakusa and Ueno, including Senso-ji, the city’s oldest temple. Closer to the city centre, Tokyo Station stands as a stunning example of Meiji-era architecture, and the Imperial Palace is a short wander away.
Accommodation: The Westin Tokyo (King Room) or similar
Meals: Breakfast
Day 3: Tokyo, Japan
After breakfast, another day in Tokyo awaits. While you can let the day take you where it will, you might wish to rise early and visit Tsukiji Outer Market, a bustling hub selling fresh seafood and other local delicacies, for the freshest sushi in the world, or head to Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree for unforgettable views of the sprawling city.
Scramble among the crowds through Shibuya Crossing, shop your way through Akihabara or Harajuku or spend the day wandering through Yoyogi Park, home to the magnificent Meiji-jingu shrine.
This evening meet your fellow voyagers and expedition guides over dinner at the hotel. (Please note that the location of tonight’s stay is not yet confirmed and may require you to check out of your previous hotel and into a new hotel for this evening.)
Accommodation: To be confirmed
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Day 4: Tokyo – Kanazawa (Cruise embarkation)
While Tokyo offers plenty of things to do, Kanazawa is only 2.5-hours away by bullet train. Catch your included transfer to your ship, the Heritage Adventurer, where you’ll be docked overnight upon boarding.
Kanazawa spellbinds visitors with its fascinating museums, top-notch sushi scene and extraordinary imperial garden, Kenrokuen, widely considered one of the best in Japan. With a rich past and easy-going atmosphere, it’s easy to see why this city is beloved by all who visit.
Accommodation: Heritage Adventurer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 5: Kanazawa
This morning wake up in Kanazawa, the first port of your epic Japanese expedition. Opt to visit the historic mountain village of Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site nestled in the remote Shogawa River Valley within Hakusan National Park, or explore downtown Kanazawa, a vibrant centre of Japanese art.
Renowned for its Kutani-style pottery, exquisite lacquerware, goldleaf craftsmanship, hand-painted silk and traditional Noh theatre, Kanazawa offers charming cobblestone streets, elegant restaurants, and craft galleries aplenty. Don’t miss the bustling Omicho Market, where you can find everything from flowers and crafts to delicious local foods.
Accommodation: Heritage Adventurer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 6: Matsue
This morning, arrive at the port of Sakaiminato, gateway to Matsue, often called ‘the town of water’ for its location between Lake Shinji and Lake Nakaumi. The day includes a visit to Matsue Castle, one of Japan’s few well-preserved 17th-century castles.
Other options include exploring scenic Daisen-Oki National Park, home to rare flora and fauna like the giant salamander, visiting the enchanting Yuushien Garden, admiring exhibits at the Adachi Museum of Art, learning about traditional Japanese paper making at Yakumo-mura village or strolling through the charming streets and canals of Matsue.
Accommodation: Heritage Adventurer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 7: Hagi
Once a modest fishing port, Hagi was transformed in 1604 when Mori Terumoto fortified it, and Mori’s samurai played a pivotal role in the anti-Tokugawa revolt of the mid-19th century. Today, the city is renowned for its traditional pottery. The morning’s explorations take you to Teramachi District, known for its temples and shrines, and Jokamachi District, full of historic Samurai houses.
The visit also includes Hagi Castle, Shizuki Park and Tokoji Temple. In the afternoon, choose to visit Yoshika Taibi Memorial Museum – which houses an extensive collection of Hagiyaki pottery, highly esteemed during the Edo period for tea ceremonies – or explore the natural splendours of Akiyoshido Cave, a 300-million-year-old limestone marvel.
Accommodation: Heritage Adventurer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 8: Ulsan, South Korea
Today, your journey crosses the Sea of Japan to Ulsan, South Korea, with a planned visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Gyeongju. As the capital of the Silla Dynasty, dating back to the first millennium, Gyeongju is renowned as ‘the museum without walls’ for its rich tapestry of Korean history and Buddhist culture.
Wander through a wealth of ancient monuments, temples, tombs and pagodas, and savour Korean delicacies while enjoying cultural performances. The National Museum, featuring exquisite gold jewellery, metal weapons and distinctive pottery, is a highlight. This day promises an immersive experience of South Korea’s rich heritage.
Accommodation: Heritage Adventurer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 9: Fukuoka, Japan
Fukuoka, Kyushu’s largest city, blends the historic charm of its old castle town with the vibrant energy of Hakata, its bustling merchant quarter. This lively city is known for its trendy yatai food stalls, alongside striking art installations, ancient ruins, and scenic coastal parks.
While here, you might explore Kitakyushu to the north, with its impressive Kokura Castle, TOTO Museum and Kawachi Wisteria Garden. Alternatively, visit the Nanzoin Temple, home to the world’s largest reclining bronze Buddha, or the tranquil Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, surrounded by serene gardens and over 6,000 plum trees.
Accommodation: Heritage Adventurer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 10: Nagasaki
Glide into Nagasaki port this morning, where we’ll revisit a sober slice of World War II history. Pay your respects at the Nagasaki Peace Park, Nagasaki Museum of History and be sure to visit the harrowing scenes of atomic devastation, before turning your attention to Nagasaki’s modern wonders.
Rebuilt from the ground up, Nagasaki is now a vibrant, charming city, where cobblestoned roads lead to exciting culinary hot spots, shrines and temples.
Accommodation: Heritage Adventurer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 11: Yakushima
Spend the morning at sea journeying towards the southern tip of Kyushu, arriving at the island of Yakushima, Japan’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, designated in 1993. Renowned for its incredibly diverse flora, this island is a true natural wonder.
In the afternoon, embark on a selection of nature walks through Yakusugi Land within Yakushima National Park. Here, you may encounter the island’s unique Yakushima Macaque and stand in awe of the ancient cedar trees, including the Buddha Sugi, Futago Sugi, and Sennen Sugi, which have stood for over 3,000 years.
Accommodation: Heritage Adventurer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 12: Uwajima
This morning, glide into Shikoku Island, docking at the port of Uwajima, nestled deep within the jagged coastline of Uwajima Bay. Uwajima is fast becoming Japan’s leading centre for pearl cultivation, and during your visit to a local pearl farm, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the intricate processes of implanting, harvesting, extracting and sorting pearls.
You’ll also have the opportunity to explore Uwajima Castle, perched atop a hill that offers sweeping views of the town and harbour, as well as the historic Tenshaen Garden, dating back to the Samurai era.
Accommodation: Heritage Adventurer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 13: Koraku-en – Kurashiki
From the port of Uno-Ko, you’ll visit Koraku-en, one of Japan’s most celebrated gardens, whose name means ‘garden of pleasure after’. This 17th century formal garden spans 28 acres, featuring walking trails, ponds, and groves of plum and, of course, cherry trees.
In the afternoon, you’ll head to Kurashiki to explore the historic merchant quarter, where 17th century wooden warehouses, painted white with traditional black tiles, line a canal shaded by weeping willows and filled with koi. There’s also the opportunity to visit the Ohara Museum of Art, which houses rare works by Matisse, Picasso, and Renoir, as well as ceramics by Hamada Shoji from Japan’s renowned Mingei movement.
Accommodation: Heritage Adventurer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 14: Osaka
Called ‘the nation’s kitchen’, bustling Osaka is the undisputed food capital of Japan. Depending on your schedule and interest today, you might opt to grab a bite in Dotonbori, the city’s legendary dining and nightlife precinct – you can tell each restaurant’s specialty by the giant animatronic above each store – or head to ultra-hip Americamura for a glimpse of the city at its wackiest.
Disembark after breakfast and your final farewells, before making your own way to Osaka International Airport (KIX) for your included return flight to select Australian cities.
Meals: Breakfast
IMPORTANT: Purchasing this deal does not complete your booking. A member of the Cruise Concierge team will process your booking and email the cruise line confirmation to your chosen email address. You will then be required to complete your online check-in and print your e-ticket and baggage tags.
This Cruise package is valid for the following departure dates:
- 2 May 2025 (cruise departs 5 May 2025)
Booking Process
- Select which package option you would like, taking care to choose the correct cabin option
- Click on the green ‘Check Availability’ tab
- Using the plus or minus adjust the number of people you would like to book then click the ‘View Available Dates & Prices’ tab
- Click the blue ‘Select’ button then the green ‘Review & Payment’ tab at the bottom right of the screen
- Fill out your preferred payment method and click the green ‘Pay Securely Now’ tab
- Once your order is complete, you will receive your Luxury Escapes automated booking summary email (this is not your cruise confirmation). The Cruise Concierge team will process your booking and email the cruise line confirmation to your chosen email address
- Should you require assistance with your cruise, please contact our Cruise Concierge team at cruises@luxuryescapes.com who will be happy to assist with any of your queries and who will support you right up until you return from your journey
IMPORTANT: The Twin-Room Package is valid for ONE PERSON (based on twin room). You must purchase TWO PACKAGES.
Please note that packages cannot be split.
AMENDMENTS & CHANGES
Name Change or Corrections
- Name corrections may incur a fee.
- Name changes are not permitted.
48-Hour Change of Mind ‘No Questions Asked’ Refund Guarantee:
- All cruise bookings have a 48-hour ‘Change of Mind Guarantee’ where any monies paid (less unrecoverable costs) within 48 hours of the initial purchase date will be refunded – no questions asked.
- Bookings outside the 48-hour ‘Change of Mind’ window will be non-refundable and non-changeable. Cancellations outside of the 48-hour ‘Change of Mind’ period will not be provided, except as required by Australian Consumer Law, your local law or as otherwise provided for in the Fine Print.
Cabin Sizes and Bedding Configuration
This cruise includes the following cabin types:
- Deck 4 Superior Stateroom: 22sqm, with twin single beds that convert into a king bed and a picture window
- Deck 5 Superior Stateroom: 22sqm, with twin single beds that convert into a king bed and a picture window
- Main Deck Single Stateroom: 22sqm, with a king bed and two porthole windows
- Superior Single Stateroom: 22sqm, with a king bed and a picture window
- Worsley Suite: 22sqm, located on Deck 6, with twin single beds that convert into a king bed, a lounge area and panoramic windows
- Heritage Suite: 44sqm, located on Deck 6 with twin single beds that convert into a king bed, a lounge area, marble bathroom with bathtub and double-panoramic windows
Pre-/Post-Cruise Accommodation
- Tokyo – The Westin Tokyo (King Room) or similar – Five-Star
IMPORTANT
- Cabins are on a ‘guarantee’ basis and will be allocated by the cruise line closer to sailing. Specific cabin, deck and location requests cannot be accommodated.
- Some cabins may have obstructed views and/or porthole window.
- Maximum room capacity is one adult for solo travellers, two adults for twin-share cabins/suites/staterooms.
- Wheelchair accessible cabins are not available. They are on application only prior to purchase. Surcharges may apply.
- Please contact the Luxury Escapes sales team on sales@luxuryescapes.com for further information.
Inclusions
- 11-night expedition cruise aboard Heritage Adventurer
- Return economy class flights from select Australian cities
- Three nights of handpicked pre-cruise accommodation in Tokyo, with breakfast
- Daily gourmet breakfast, lunch and dinner onboard
- Complimentary drinks package featuring select wine, beer, spirits, cocktails, soft drinks and in-room minibar
- Complimentary excursions and sightseeing as per itinerary
- Daily lectures and briefings by noted naturalists
- Included use of the Zodiac vessels
- Complimentary 20GB Wi-Fi package
- Daily laundry service throughout cruise
- Bullet train transfer from Tokyo to Kanazawa
- All entrance fees to national parks and ports, tips and gratuities as per itinerary
Exclusions
- Visas
- Meals/drinks not stated in the itinerary/inclusion
- Travel insurance (recommended)
- Dining inclusions do not include drinks (unless otherwise stated). Menus are subject to change without notice.
- Airport transfers
- City taxes or resort fees may apply and are payable directly to the hotel on arrival
Flights
- Values and prices correct as of 3 September 2024.
- Return economy class airfares are included in your package, departing from Sydney (SYD), Melbourne (MEL), Perth (PER) and Brisbane (BNE) with Cathay Pacific or similar.
- Surcharges to depart from other cities will apply.
- Preferred airline seating is the responsibility of the passenger. For any specific airline seat reservations, contact the airline with the booking number included on your cruise summary email.
- Flights are non-changeable and non-refundable once tickets have been issued.
- Luggage
- A checked baggage allowance of one 23kg bag and a carry-on luggage allowance of 7kg applies.
- Any additional baggage must be purchased at the airport by the customer.
Onboard Drinks
- The drinks package is inclusive of standard wines (white, red and sparkling ), standard beer, standard cocktails, soft drinks and sparkling water. Excluding premium brands, this will include drinks at the bar, in the dining area and from your staterooms mini bar.
Laundry
- Guests are entitled to one bag of laundry per day.
- Please note there is a 24–36 hour turnaround on laundry.
Itinerary
- In the event of strikes lockouts, riots, weather conditions or mechanical difficulties, or for any other reason, any scheduled sailing or port of call may be subject to change.
- Some itineraries may include tender ports.
Age Restrictions
- Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied, in the same or connecting cabin, by a parent or other responsible adult over the age of 18 for the duration of the voyage. Please note there are no child-minding facilities or play areas onboard.
- Infants and children can be accommodated onboard by request only.
- Guests who will have entered their 24th week of pregnancy or later at any time during the cruise cannot be accommodated due to safety concerns. Pregnant guests under 24 weeks must provide a doctor’s letter upon request confirming fitness to travel and estimated due date.
Travel Insurance
- Travel insurance (with medical evacuation coverage) is strongly recommended. We recommend purchasing travel insurance as soon as possible after purchasing this package.
Passports & Visas
- A visa may be required. It is the traveller’s responsibility to ensure they’re holding a current visa for the countries they’re visiting. If the traveller is on a non-Australian passport, a valid re-entry visa may be required.
- Important: Please start arranging your visa at least 6-8 weeks prior to departure to account for any delays due to consulate operating hours and processing time.
- A valid passport with a minimum validity of 6 months beyond your return travel date is required for all passengers (including children and infants).
Health & Vaccinations
- Travellers are advised to check recommended vaccinations with their local health professional at least 45 days prior to departure, as some vaccinations require 30 days or more to be effective.
- Proof of vaccination is not usually required unless you are coming from an infected area.
- Proof of Yellow Fever vaccinations is required for entry into some countries, in particular in Africa. Please check with your health professional that you hold the appropriate vaccination entry requirements for your destination.
- Guests may be required to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 from our ground operator prior to embarkation. Please contact the Luxury Escapes Cruises Concierge team on cruises@luxuryescapes.com for further information.
- Important: The hotel, transportation and/or destination you are travelling to may have health, insurance and vaccination requirements in place. Please ensure you stay up to date with any requirements prior to your departure.
Timings
- Timing provided on the itinerary is based on current schedules provided by Heritage Expeditions and can change at any time without notice.
Currency Onboard and Tipping
- The currency onboard is US$.
- Service charges (gratuities) for onboard personnel are included in your package.
Fitness Requirements
Travellers should have a good level of physical fitness and mobility and must be able to negotiate uneven surfaces and climb stairs.
- Disability access is limited during the cruise, please consider this when making your booking.
- Travellers acknowledge that they are required to have a good level of health and fitness to undertake any activities in this package. Further, travellers acknowledge and agree that neither Luxury Escapes nor the third-party provider will be able to provide medical or other assistance in the event that they are unable to complete any aspect of the tour as a result of their health or physical condition (nor is Luxury Escapes liable for any loss, damage, expense, injury or death arising from such).
Surcharges
Any prices quoted exclude specific costs/measures which may be introduced at a later stage as a result of Government changes due to COVID-19 health and safety restrictions. Our trusted third-party suppliers will inform guests of these changes as soon as possible.
Deposits
The deposit amount is 35% and the final payment date is due 180 days prior to embarkation. Please note: other deposit options may be available on your package which differ from the above and which will be outlined in the ‘fine print’ and payment section of the specific package.
PLEASE NOTE: We reserve the right to modify prices for marketing and commercial reasons. Please note that full terms and conditions apply. Refer to website’s terms and conditions.
Cruise itineraries are not guaranteed and are subject to change. While the cruise line will make all reasonable efforts to provide a cruise in accordance with the published schedules and itineraries, factors such as weather, mechanical difficulties or other unforeseen circumstances may affect scheduled itineraries.
Package inclusions are correct at the time of purchase. Refer to your booking summary email for details.
Please note this cruise is operated by Heritage Expeditions one of our trusted partners. You will be contacted post-purchase with further details.