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The best of Japan
Maizuru - Osaka
Dates:
20/06/2021
to
28/06/2021
Other available dates
9
days
days
8
nights on board
nights on board
Starting from*
5.000 €
25% Ponant Bonus
Guest Speaker Through this exceptional itinerary, PONANT invites you to discover the Land of the Rising Sun, where the history of the samurai and the daintiness of the geishas exist side by side.
In Maizuru, you will board your ship for a 9-day cruise to the heart of Japan.
In Sakaiminato you will set off to discover medieval Japan and the ancient dwellings of the samurai, who had lavish homes and castles built.
Your ship will then take you to Busan, a warm and welcoming city where you will enjoy a spectacular view of the port. This ancient city full of contrasts presents numerous vestiges that speak of its prestigious past.
We will call at Miyajima, home to the majestic Shinto shrine whose entrance is guarded by a magnificent vermillion Torii listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
You will also discover the small Japanese city of Tamano, a former feudal domain with a unique cultural heritage. Among its sites, you will be able to admire its famous Korakuen Garden, one of the country’s three must-see landscaped gardens.
You will end your cruise with the discovery of the most Japanese of metropolis, Osaka, a modern, industrial and cultural city that is entirely turned towards the future. This city has been the national centre for trade and industry since the reign of Emperor Nintoku.
Ref : R200621
Your itinerary
Discovering the ‘Empire of the Rising Sun’, its culture, its ancestral traditions and iconic sites. UNESCO World Heritage Sites: The Miyajima Sanctuary and its vermillion Torii, the Hiroshima Peace...
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Your trip in detail
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Additional services
For more peace of mind, PONANT selects flights and takes care of your transfers for your trip as well as shore visits before and after the cruise.
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*Price is per person, double occupancy, is based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of cabin to which this price applies may no longer be available.
Dates
Departure
Arrival
Ships
Cruise code
Ponant Bonus
Prices from
30/04/2022 to 08/05/2022
Maizuru
Osaka
LE SOLEAL
S300422
20% Ponant Bonus
4.940 €
The best of Japan
Superior Stateroom
Deluxe Stateroom
Prestige Deck 4
Prestige Deck 5
Prestige Deck 6
Deluxe Suite
Fully booked
Prestige Deck 5 Suite
Fully booked
Prestige Deck 6 Suite
Owner's Suite
16/05/2022 to 24/05/2022
Maizuru
Osaka
LE SOLEAL
S160522
15% Ponant Bonus
5.220 €
The best of Japan
Superior Stateroom
Deluxe Stateroom
Prestige Deck 4
Prestige Deck 5
Prestige Deck 6
Deluxe Suite
Fully booked
Prestige Deck 5 Suite
Prestige Deck 6 Suite
Fully booked
Owner's Suite
Fully booked
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Services provided
- Individually-controlled airconditioning
- Stateroom layout: king-size bed, or twin beds, communicating staterooms available (Children welcome)
- Minibar
- Flat screen satellite TV
- Video on demand
- Bose™ Bluetooth speaker
- Desk with stationery
- Safe
- Hermès® bath products
- Dressing table, bath robes, Hairdryer
- Direct line telephone
- 110V American (two flat pins) /220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
- 24hr room service
- Inclusive Internet access Wifi
Choose your stateroom category
Packing Checklist
Ideal clothes for life on board:
During the days spent on board, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes or casual outfits. The entire ship is air-conditioned, so a light sweater, a light jacket or a shawl may be necessary. When moving about in the public areas of the ship and the decks, light but comfortable shoes are recommended.
Informal evening:
In the evening, you are advised to wear smart-casual attire, especially when dining in our restaurants where wearing shorts and tee-shirts is not allowed.
For women:
- Simple dress
- Skirt or trousers
- Blouse
- Polo
For men:
- Pleated trousers or chinos
- Sports jacket
- Shirt
- Polo
Officer’s evening:
Depending on the itinerary and the program of your cruise, an Officer’s Evening with a white dress code may be organized. Therefore, we encourage you to bring a stylish white outfit for the occasion (otherwise black and white).
Gala evening:
During the cruise, two gala evenings will be organised on board. Thus, we recommend that you bring one or two formal outfits.
For women:
- Cocktail attire
- Evening dress (if you wish to)
For men:
- Dark suit
- Tie recommended, possibly bow tie (if you wish to)
SHOP:
A small shop is available on board offering a wide range of outfits, jewellery, leather goods and many accessories.
A laundry service (washing/ironing) is available on board, but unfortunately there are no dry cleaning services. For safety reasons, your cabin is not equipped with an iron.
Advice
ACCESSORIES:
- Polarized sunglasses
- Swimsuit (for the Spa on board)
- Gym wear (fitness)
- Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
- Mobile phone charger
- Hat/cap
HEALTH CARE:
- Sunscreen and after-sun lotion
- Medications and prescriptions
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
- Casual outfits for the day
- Smarter outfits for dinners
- Elegant outfits for Gala evenings
- White or black and white outfit
PRECAUTIONS:
In your hand luggage, remember to bring any medicines that you need, and possibly a small spare bag of toiletries (in case of delay in the delivery of your baggage by the airline). Remember to always have your travel documents with you in case you need them: hotel vouchers, cruise vouchers, return flight tickets... Never leave them in your hold luggage.
All our cabins have a safe. We recommend not to go ashore with valuable jewellery.
PONANT activities
Highlights
- Discovering the ‘Empire of the Rising Sun’, its culture, its ancestral traditions and iconic sites.
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: The Miyajima Sanctuary and its vermillion Torii, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum.
- Sakaiminato and Matsue or medieval Japan and the former homes of the Samurais.
- Discovering Tamano, a former feudal domain with a surprising cultural heritage, and its famous “black castle”.
- Osaka, and its famous castle (port of disembarkation).
Ports of Call & Excursions
20 June 2021 Maizuru
Embarkation 20/06/2021 from 16h00 to 17h00
Departure 20/06/2021 at 19h00
Located on the western coast of Honshu island, in the province of Kyoto, the charming town of Maizuru boasts one of Japan’s most exquisite closed bays. A climb to the observatory allows to appreciate the splendour of this inlet scattered with tiny wild islands. Visitors can also admire the treasures of traditional architecture by visiting the temple of Enryu-ji or the Tanabe-jo castle. The town also bears traces of a rich military past, which you can see in the old arsenals of the navy, red brick buildings that today house a museum.
21 June 2021 Sakaiminato
Arrival 21/06/2021 early morning
Departure 21/06/2021 early evening
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.
3 possible excursions
to this stopover
22 June 2021 Busan
Arrival 22/06/2021 early afternoon
Departure 22/06/2021 early evening
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.
2 possible excursions
to this stopover
23 June 2021 Nagasaki
Arrival 23/06/2021 early morning
Departure 23/06/2021 early evening
Located on the north-west coast of Kyushu, Nagasaki will impress you by its rich heritage. Despite the destruction in 1945, you can visit several ancient sites, including the beautiful 19th-century Catholic Church of Oura and its garden, the sanctuary of Suwa Shrine or several Buddhist temples. A visit to the Atomic Bomb Museum gives you insight into the extent of the damage caused by the nuclear attack. Close by, a walk in the Memorial Peace Park leads you to a collection of objets d'art offered as a gift from Japan to the world.
2 possible excursions
to this stopover
24 June 2021 Kagoshima
Arrival 24/06/2021 early morning
Departure 24/06/2021 early evening
The seaside city of Kagoshima, at the south of Kyushu Island, ﾠis best known for Sakurajima, an active volcano that faces Kinko Bay. A visit to this busy metropolis will remind you just how much the volcano is part of the inhabitants' everyday life: in the wake of the almost daily eruptions, a delicate layer of ash settles on everything. The top of a buried torii (traditional Japanese gate) measuring three metres that was 'swallowed up' by a giant lava flow in 1914 can still be seen. The power of nature will send a shiver down your spine.
3 possible excursions
to this stopover
25 June 2021 Uwajima
Arrival 25/06/2021 midday
Departure 25/06/2021 evening
Located on the west coast of Shikoku island, Uwajima will delight lovers of history and traditional customs. The magnificent Uwajima Castle was built in the 17th-century by the powerful Date clan and has a beautiful ornamental garden and bridge. The much-visited Taga Shrine is dedicated to fertility and is full of phalluses. As for eating, you must taste jakoten, a local delicacy based on fried fish.
2 possible excursions
to this stopover
26 June 2021 Hiroshima
Arrival 26/06/2021 early morning
Departure 26/06/2021 midday
Visiting Hiroshima is a moving experience. The town spreads along Honshu Island, along the inside coasts of Seto. While firmly focused on the future, Hiroshima doesn't forget its past, and a visit to the Peace Memorial Park and Genbaku Dome is a must. You'll enjoy the city's modern, cosmopolitan atmosphere and effervescent nightlife just as much as the peaceful stillness of its natural parkland areas such as splendid Shukkei-en, the town's historic garden.
2 possible excursions
to this stopover
26 June 2021 Miyajima Island
Arrival 26/06/2021 early afternoon
Departure 26/06/2021 evening
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.
2 possible excursions
to this stopover
27 June 2021 Tamano
Arrival 27/06/2021 early morning
Departure 27/06/2021 evening
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.
2 possible excursions
to this stopover
28 June 2021 Osaka
Arrival 28/06/2021 early morning
Disembarkation 28/06/2021 at 07h00
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.
Izumo & Adachi Art museum
9 h 30
From the pier, board your coach for the two-hour drive to the Izumo Taisha Shrine. It is one of the oldest shrines in Japan, and for many centuries was the largest wooden structure in the country.
The present building has a height of 25 metres (80 feet), about half of the original scale. The main hall of the shrine is dedicated to the Shinto deity of Okuninushi-no-Mikoto, a god associated with love and happiness. The shrine's architectural style is the oldest in Japan. A ceremonial rope made from plaited straw decorates the entrance. The rope is 8 metres (25 feet) long and weighs one and a half tons. You will admire this shrine from the outside only.
A 10-minute walk will take you to the Shimane Museum of Ancient Izumo for a visit. It shows the unique culture which has been handed down over the generations in Izumo. This museum was established to introduce this unique history and culture. Significant displays include burial mounds with four protuberant corners, bead making of Izumo, the Iwami-Ginzan silver mine, and the iron manufacturing process. Also, experience some of the great ancient history by seeing a specimen of cross-sectional buried tree, and a replica of a silver coin from the Iwami-Ginzan silver mine.
After a traditional Japanese lunch, visit Adachi Museum of Art. Located near Matsue city, it combines superb Japanese gardens with an outstanding collection of modern painting. Adachi’s museum is famous for its beautiful garden. In the 2011 ranking of Japanese gardens by the Sukiya Living Magazine, the gardens of the Adachi Museum of Art were ranked number one for the ninth consecutive year. The museum collection includes 1,300 of Japan's most prized paintings since the Meiji Period. Taikan Yokoyama, who is known for harmonizing Western and Japanese painting styles, is the most prominently featured artist. Viewed through the framed windows of the museum, the garden outside can also seem like a beautiful painting.
- This tour includes approximately 2 km (1.3 mile) of walking and some 50 steps. Wear comfortable walking shoes. This tour involves approximately 4 ½ hours of coach transfers. On Tuesdays the Shimane Museum is closed, the visit will be replaced by the recently restored Treasure Museum which exhibits paintings, documents and lavishly decorated containers.
Price range:
More
€€€€: the excursion price is more than €150.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Matsue Castle & paper making experience
5 h 00
From the pier, board your coach for the one-hour drive to Matsue Castle. Built in 1611 and still symbol of Matsue City, the Matsue Castle is the only remaining castle structure on the Japan Sea Coast, offering commanding views of Lake Shinji-ko and Mt. Oyama.
The castle is unique in that the second floor is wider than the first-floor base. Most of the original building has been destroyed through time, but the stone wall and six-floor donjon remains. Besides the great view from the top floor, the castle features a museum of swords and samurai armours.
Next, visit Abe Eishiro Memorial hall. This municipal museum contains documents and materials about the life and times of Abe Eishiro (1903-1985), master craftsman in hand-made Japanese paper (washi).
Washi is a style of paper that was first made in Japan. Washi is commonly made using fibres from the bark of the gampi tree, the mitsumata shrub, or the paper mulberry, but also can be made using bamboo, hemp, rice, and wheat. The word washi comes from wa (Japanese) and shi (paper). As a Japanese craft it is registered as a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage. Washi paper is generally tougher than ordinary paper made from wood pulp, and is used in many traditional arts.
During your visit, you will be able to try the ancient art of making washi paper.
On the way back to the pier, drive through Mizuki Shigery Road where you will see some of the many bronze statues depicting famous manga characters.
- This tour includes approximately 1.3 mile (2 km) of walking over uneven terrain and 200 steps. There are no elevators at the Matsue Castle. Wear comfortable walking shoes. You will be asked to remove your shoes before entering the castle and Abe Eishiro hall.
Price range:
More
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Sushi & Sake experience
3 h 00
You like sushi… Then this tour is just for you. An experienced chef will teach you how to make sushi, step by step. You will have a chance to learn how to make two kinds of sushi: “nigirizushi”, the type of sushi that consists of a piece of seafood on top of a small mound of rice, and “makizushi” sushi roll. The process of making nigirizushi looks simple, but it takes years to perfect the art of making the mound of rice with perfect pressure and moves as a professional sushi chef. After the hands-on workshop, you will taste the sushi you just made accompanied by local sake tasting.
During the sake lecture, you will learn what kind of sake goes well with seafood. Inata Sake Brewery is a leading sake company in Tottori, and has been making sake for 345 years since Edo period. Inata Sake Brewery has been preserving the culture of sake brewing in the region since its foundation in 1673.
On the way back to the pier, drive through Mizuki Shigery Road where you will see some of the many bronze statues depicting famous manga characters.
- Participants must be at least 20 years old to participate in the sake tasting. This tour is limited to 35 guests and must be booked at least 7 days prior. You will be asked to remove your shoes at the sushi making venue. The sushi chef and sake lecturer only speak Japanese, and your guide will translate all the commentary.
Price range:
More
€€€: the excursion price is between €100 and €150.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Haedongyonggungsa & fish market
3 h 30
A 45-minute drive from the port will bring you to the Haedongyonggungsa Temple. En route, you will cross the Gwangan Grand Bridge. With its 4.6-mile length, it is the country’s longest suspension bridge, offering wide views on the Oryuk Islets, Dongbaek Island and the Dalmaji Hill.
Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is located on the seaside. Unlike other temples, which are normally located in the mountains, this Buddhist temple is situated near the sea. This temple was originally built in 1376 and then reconstructed in 1970 using all the colours that were traditionally used in the structure. The birth of Buddha, celebrated in April-May (following the lunar calendar), offers spectacular night time views as the temple area is surrounded with lit lanterns. Haedong Yonggungsa is one of three sacred places related to the Goddess Buddha. There are 108 steps down to the Temple, the number of steps representing 108 anguishes in the life in Buddhism. So, you can pray to be out of the 108 anguishes, step by step, 108 times.
Back in Busan, you will visit the Jagalchi Fishery Market located next to the Fisherman’s Wharf. This market was established by women peddlers during the Korean War. Today the market rivals many in the world, with a rich variety of fresh catches from shell fish to exotic seaweeds and carved filets, ready to cook.
- This tour involves approximately 1 mile (1.6 km) of walking over sometimes wet, slippery tiles. To reach the Sanctuary, you will have to walk the 108 steps down and back up. Wear comfortable walking shoes.
Price range:
More
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Tea ceremony & temple culture
3 h 30
A 45-minute drive will bring you to the Hongbeopsa Temple, famous for having the largest Buddha statue in Asia. After a guided visit of the temple, experience a traditional tea ceremony.
The art of the Korean Tea Ceremony has been passed down for more than 1,000 years and is known for its graceful etiquette, refined beauty, and almost meditative state of personal harmony.
Tea Culture was originally one of the six offerings (with incense, flower, lantern, fruit, and rice) to Buddha. Brewing and drinking tea is considered as befitting the practice of the eight virtues taught by Buddha. The Temple’s tea ceremony is a form of meditation which aims to purify the soul and become one with nature. It will be a unique experience of learning and practicing how to enjoy the culture of tea ceremony following a monk’s or tea master’s guidance.
After the ceremony, sit down with a Buddhist Monk (if available) to ask questions and gain insight into temple life. This excursion provides a truly unique opportunity for those seeking an inspired, authentic and moving look at the Korean heritage.
Before returning to the ship, enjoy some time at leisure at the Gukje Market. Following the Korean War, refugees who fled to Busan set up stalls in order to make a living, this is how the market started. Browse through its many alleyways which stocks a wide variety of goods.
This tour is only conducted in English, there will be no translation in French. The tour is limited to 30 guests. Walking is limited to 0.6 mile (1 km) but involves some steps and inclines. Participants need to sit on the floor for 30-40 minutes during the tea ceremony. Only a limited number of chairs are provided. Your English-speaking guide will act as translator during the ceremony and question & answer session with the Monk. If the Hongbeopsa Temple is not available because of religious events, the Beomeosa Temple or Geumgangsa Temple will be visited instead. If the monk is called for official religious affairs, he will not be able to guide during the tea ceremony and the time normally spent for questions and answers will be replaced by more time at the Gukje Market.
Price range:
More
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Ground Zero & atomic bomb museum
4 h 15
From the pier, board your coach for a short drive to the Nagasaki Peace Memorial Park, commemorating the city's destruction by the atomic bomb dropped on 9 August 1945. Although “Fat Man”, the name given to the second bomb dropped on Japan, missed its target by over a mile and a half, it levelled nearly half the city. The park's main attraction is its collection of statues and sculptures donated by countries and groups all over the world. This includes the massive Peace Memorial Statue depicting a man with his right arm pointing to the sky to indicate the continued threat of nuclear destruction.
After a short walk, you will reach Ground Zero, the hypocentre of the catastrophe marked by a sober black pillar. Then visit the Atomic Bomb Museum, with over 900 artefacts indicative of the city's devastation. But more than just a commemoration, the museum promotes peace by denouncing the abomination of war and by tracing the evolution of the use of atomic weapons.
After the Peace memorial sites, you will have some time at leisure at Hamanomachi Arcade, which is a central shopping area of Nagasaki. See the craft shops, restaurants, and local food stalls.
Enjoy the scenic drive through Dejima, a man-made island created to serve as only trading post with foreign countries during the Edo era when Japan was closed to the outside world, and completed in 1635. Dutch who were permitted to trade at that time lived on island. Driving by the China town, you will see the Chinese-style gate, architecture and decorations from the coach (no stop included).
- This tour is mainly a walking tour and involves approximately 3 miles (4 km) of walking over flat terrain (including steps and elevators).
Price range:
More
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Nagasaki historical tour
4 h 15
From the pier, a short transfer will bring you to the Nagasaki Museum of History and Culture, which is one of the few museums in Japan with the theme of "Overseas Exchange". The museum holds approx. 48,000 precious collections including historical documents and arts & crafts that tell the story of how Nagasaki developed as the sole window opened to foreign countries during the period of national isolation.
Next continue to Dejima Island; a Dutch outpost that served as Japan's only contact point with the Western world for over 200 years. Dejima Museum of History portrays the history of Dejima, the manner of daily life for the Dutch who lived there, and how the trading system worked between Japan and the Netherlands.
The Oura Catholic Church, is both the oldest Gothic-style wooden building and oldest church in Japan and is the only Western artifact designated a national treasure. The church was founded by French priest Bernard Petijean, who soon dedicated it to the martyrdom of the 26 saints in Japan in 1597. Though Christianity had been banned in Japan from even before that time, in 1865 Petijean was approached by local farmers whose families had kept their faith alive in secret through the centuries. The white marble statue of the Holy Mother at the entrance of Oura Catholic Church was placed there in commemoration of these hidden Christians.
Afterwards, you will visit Glover Garden: situated on a picturesque hillside looking over Nagasaki Port, you will find a number of late 19th and early 20th century Western-style buildings gathered together. These gardens are said to be the setting for the opera "Madame Butterfly".
Reboard your coach for drive back to your ship.
- This tour involves approximately 1.9 mile (3 km) of walking. There are approximately 40 steps to climb for the visit of the Oura Church and many stairs to reach the Glover gardens. Shoes must be removed for the visit of some places.
Price range:
More
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
A trip to Chiran
4 h 15
Embark your coach for the one-hour southbound drive to Chiran, sometimes called "Little Kyoto" for all the samurai residences that have been preserved there. Several houses have been preserved along with several beautiful gardens, all around 250 years old.
The gates to the residences, moss-covered stone walls, hedges and black tile roofs help recapture the flavour of the Edo Period. Several of the residences are still being used by samurai descendants, but several gardens stay open to the public. Though small in size, each garden is a fine example of "borrowed landscaping," in which surrounding mountains and scenery have been made part of the garden design.
Not far from the Chiran Samurai Residences is the Peace Museum or Tokko Heiwa Kaikan. Dedicated to the young kamikaze pilots who trained near Chiran before embarking on suicide missions against Allied sea vessels in World War II, the museum commemorates the bravery and sad sacrifice of these young Japanese men, and makes a plea for world peace.
Return to Kagoshima and the ship following your in-depth visit to Chiran.
- This tour involves approximately 1 mile (1.5 km) of walking, mostly over flat terrain. Photography is not allowed inside the Chiran Peace Museum.
Price range:
More
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Kagoshima highlight & volcano
7 h 00
Mount Sakurajima is the symbol of Kagoshima City, and one of the world's most active volcanoes. It sits on an island that was turned into a peninsula by the lava flow of 1914.
You will reach Mt Sakurajima by coach, followed by a short ferry ride. Sights there include a road through an old lava flow and the top of what was once a large torii-style gate, with the remainder buried in hardened lava. Mt Sakurajima is also a spot of hot spring and is known for the enormous radishes that grow in its volcanic soil. Your first stop will be at the Arimura lava Observatory, located on the small hill which was created by eruption in 1946. Enjoy grand views of Sakurajima and calm Kinko-wan Bay while walking along the 0.75-mile (1.2 km) promenade and its 100 steps.
Before leaving Mt. Sakurajima, you will stop at the Sakurajima Visitor Centre, which provides information on the history of the volcanic eruptions, the evolution of its plant life and disaster prevention.
Back on the mainland, and after a traditional Japanese lunch, visit the Sengan-en garden, the former summer villa of the once powerful Shimazu clan, which overlooks Kinko Bay and Mt Sakurajima. Built in 1648, the garden has 48 hectares, but was once three times that size. The garden includes artificial rivers and mountains, a bamboo grove, plus a waterfall… and great views on the bay and the volcano.
Continue with the visit to the Shoko Shuseikan Museum which was once a factory established by lord Shimazu Nariakira in 1852 to produce armaments and promote the weapons industry. Today, it is a museum of the 700-year Shimazu family history.
This tour involves 1.9 mile (3 km) of walking, some over gravel paths. Photography is not allowed inside the Shoko Shuseikan Museum.
Price range:
More
€€€€: the excursion price is more than €150.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Miyama pottery town & Shochu distillery
5 h 30
For more than 400 years, Miyama has been the most prolific producer of Satsuma ware in Kagoshima. In Miyama, the fires of the kilns never die. Even today, the fires continue to burn, producing works with the same technique and spirit as the masters of old.
From the pier, board your coach for the one-hour drive to Chin Jukan Pottery House in Miyama. This pottery produces exceptional Satsuma ware and has a proud history spanning four centuries. These works are world-renowned for their technical brilliance and an aesthetic sense that shines throughout in every detail of the production process. At the pottery house, you will see the climbing kiln and store house, followed by a short time for shopping.
Next, learn about shochu, a Japanese distilled beverage less than 45% alcohol by volume. It is typically distilled from rice, barley, sweet potatoes, buckwheat, or brown sugar, though it is sometimes produced from other ingredients such as chestnut, sesame seeds, potatoes or even carrots. Typically, shochu contains 25% alcohol by volume, which is weaker than whisky or standard-strength vodka but stronger than wine and sake.
The Kinzangura distillery is the only distillery in Kagoshima, where the shochu is housed, fermented and stored in a mine roadway. This 120-km (75 miles) long mine roadway dug over 350 years keeps the constant temperature throughout the year and provides an optimum environment for the storage and ageing of the beverage. A short trolley train ride will take you to the fermentation house in the mine. Here, learn how the traditional shochu is made. After the visit, you will have some time for shochu tasting and maybe purchase a bottle.
- This tour involves very little walking. The average temperature inside the old mine roadway is 19°C (66°F).
Price range:
More
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Uchiko old town
4 h 30
From the pier, embark your coach for the one-hour drive to Uchiko.
Located about 50 km northeast of Uwajima, the pleasant town of Uchiko is a vestige of traditional, rural Japan. Uchiko was once a prosperous centre of wax and paper production. One of the town's main attractions, the Kamihaga Residence, explores this historical industry.
Next, enjoy a guided walk on the streets of Yokaichi, which is Uchiko's preserved street of houses where most of the town's attractions can be found. This historical district looks just as it did over 100 years ago, when wealth and prosperity came to Uchiko through its wax trade.
Omori Candle maker is one of the long-established makers and you can observe the sensitive work of the Japanese handmade candles. Your guided walk continues to the old pharmacy called museum of commercial and domestic life. You will see the various scenes of pharmacy life displayed by dolls dating back to 1921.
Another symbol of Uchiko is found outside of the old district: Uchiko-za is a full-scale kabuki theatre equipped with trap doors, hidden entrances and a rotating stage.
Reboard your coach for the one-hour drive back to your ship.
- This tour involves approximately 2.2 mile (3.5 km) of walking. The candle-maker is closed on Tuesday and Friday, another visit will be scheduled on those days. You will be asked to remove your shoes for the visit of some places.
Price range:
More
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Cultural Uwajima
4 h 30
Uwajima is located deep inside Uwajima Bay with its coast facing the Bungo Channel in southwestern Ehime. Since the early 17th century, the city has flourished as a castle town of the Date family.
Your first visit will be the beautiful terraced fields of Yusu Mizugaura. An epithet used for these terraced fields is “Plough a way to heaven”. The steep mountain slope has been transformed with stacked stones into a staircase of farmland. Its majestic scenery has been selected as an important cultural landscape and one of hundred famous views of rural Japan.
Next, you will visit Doi Pearl. The Uwajima Pearl is one of the highest graded pearl in the world. During you visit, you will learn about the method of pearl culturing, the production and distribution of pearls. After a lecture, you will have a chance to purchase pearls.
Your final stop is Nanraku-en Garden for a Tea Ceremony. The Japanese tea ceremony is a choreographic ritual of preparing and serving Japanese green tea together with traditional Japanese sweets to balance with the bitter taste of the tea. Preparing tea in this ceremony means pouring all one's attention into the predefined movements. The whole process is not about drinking tea, but is about aesthetics, preparing a bowl of tea from one's heart. The host of the ceremony always considers the guests with every movement and gesture. You will have a chance to see an authentic tea ceremony performance.
After the visit, return to the shipside.
- This tour involves approximately 1.8 miles (2 km) of walking and 150 steps. You will be asked to remove your shoes to attend the tea ceremony.
Price range:
More
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Saijo Sake Street walking tour
4 h 00
Sake is Japan's national drink, an alcoholic beverage which is made from fermented rice. It can be enjoyed hot or cold, often depending on the weather and the type of food with which it is being consumed. Saijo has long been a prime location for sake production, largely due to the high-quality spring water in its vicinity. The well water of the breweries originates from mountains 3km outside of Saijo. The quality of the water changes as it makes its way to the town, and the calcium and magnesium content in the well water becomes three times higher than that of the mountain spring water.
From the pier, board your coach for the one-hour drive to Saijo Sake Street. On arrival your guided walking tour through the main brewery district will start. The area is recognizable by the number of red brick chimneys poking into the sky. Saijo's sake industry began at the turn of the 20th century, so many of the buildings in the area have an old-world charm. There are nine breweries in Saijo Sake Street. You will visit two of them and learn about the production process, followed by some tasting of different varieties of Sake.
On the way back the pier, a photo stop will be made at Hiroshima Castle. It is a good example of a castle built on a plain in the center of a city as opposed to hilltop and mountaintop castles. Its main keep is five stories tall, and its grounds are surrounded by a moat. The castle tower was designated as a National Treasure in 1931 but was destroyed by the atomic bomb. Total renovation was completed in 1989.
- This tour involves little walking. Guests must be at least 20-years old to be served alcoholic beverages in Japan.
Price range:
More
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Remembering Hiroshima
4 h 00
In the years just following the atomic bomb blast on 6 August 1945, scientists doubted if Hiroshima could ever live again. Yet modern Hiroshima rose like a phoenix from its own ashes, and less than five decades since its obliteration, it is a vital city with a population of one million and growing.
From the pier, you will reach the poignant Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and its impressive museum. Consisting of two buildings, the museum surveys the history of Hiroshima and the advent of the nuclear bomb. Its main focus though is on the events of 6 August: the dropping of the bomb and its outcome in human suffering. The personal details displayed are quite upsetting and serve to remind that we should not take peace for granted.
Then you will walk from the museum to the Atomic Bomb Dome, passing by the Peace Memorial Park. This park is hugged by rivers on both sides, large, leafy space criss-crossed by walkways and dotted with memorials. Its central feature is the long tree-lined Pond of Peace leading to the cenotaph. This curved concrete monument holds the names of all the known victims of the bomb. Just north of the road through the park is the Children’s Peace Monument, inspired by Sadako Sasaki, who was two years old at the time of the atomic bomb. When Sadako developed leukemia at 11 years of age, she decided to fold 1,000 orizuru (paper cranes). In Japan, the crane is the symbol of longevity and happiness, and she believed if she achieved that target she would recover. Her story inspired a nationwide spate of paper-crane folding that continues to this day.
Continue to the Hiroshima Orizuru Tower. Officially opened in September 2016, it is located beside the Atomic Bomb Museum. The 50-metre-tall tower is one of the few tall buildings around the Peace Memorial Park and offers a great view of the surroundings, including the less commonly seen view of the A-Bomb Dome from above. The Orizuru Square on the 12th floor is a station where you can try to fold orizuru. These cranes can be kept as a souvenir or dropped down into the Orizuru Wall, a glass panel wall that will be filled up with these folded cranes in time to come.
- This tour involves approximately 4 km (2.5 mile) of walking. Wear comfortable walking shoes. This tour includes sensitive material including graphic pictures and displays on the atrocities of war.
Price range:
More
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Itsukushima Shrine & cooking
2 h 30
From the tender landing, a short walk will bring you to the place where you will learn how to make the local Momiji Manju. This is the area’s most popular souvenir, a small maple-leaf shaped cake filled with sweet bean paste. After this fun and hands-on experience continue to the Itsukushima Shrine for a visit.
The shrine was established in 593, the first year of the reign of Empress Suiko, and is today a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The current torii was erected in 1875 after the original one was destroyed. The shrine's torii rises 48 feet (16 metres) above the sea, its columns, made of camphor are 30 feet (10 metres) in circumference and supported by smaller pillars, which are buried in the seabed.
The construction of the sanctuary, consisting of structures on piles and pontoons, is due to the sacred status of the island. The visitors had indeed no right to dismount; when they arrived by boat, they passed under the torii and floating dock on the pontoons. Scene from Noh theatre, also on stilts, is close to the temple.
After your visit to the shrine, you will enjoy free time to discover the numerous shops located in the narrow streets.
- This tour is tour is done solely on foot and involves approximately 1 mile (1.6 km) of walking. The instructions to make the sweets will be given in Japanese and then translated by your guide. Floating Torii Gate of Itsukushima Shrine will be undergoing refurbishment.
Price range:
More
€: the excursion price is less than €50.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Itsukushima Shrine & zazen meditation
2 h 30
From the tender landing, a 30-minute walk will bring you to the Daisho-in Temple, which is located at the foot of the thickly forested Mount Misen and is one of the most famous temples in Miyajima. There you will meet a resident Buddhist monk who will perform a 30-minute meditation session with you.
Zazen is the form of meditation at the very heart of Zen practice. In fact, Zen is known as the “meditation school” of Buddhism. Basically, zazen is the study of the self.
Next, you will visit the Itsukushima Shrine. The shrine was established in 593, the first year of the reign of Empress Suiko, and is today a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The current torii was erected in 1875 after the original one was destroyed. The shrine's torii rises 48 feet above the sea, its columns, made of camphor are 30 feet in circumference and supported by smaller pillars, which are buried in the seabed.
The construction of the sanctuary, consisting of structures on piles and pontoons, is due to the sacred status of the island. The visitors had indeed no right to dismount; when they arrived by boat, they passed under the torii and floating dock on the pontoons. Scene from Noh theatre, also on stilts, is close to the temple.
After your visit to the shrine, you will enjoy free time to discover the numerous shops located in the narrow streets.
- This tour is done solely on foot and involves approximately 2.15 mile (3.5 km) of walking and 200 steps. During the meditation session, you will be seated cross legged on a zafu cushion keeping your back straight. The monk only speaks Japanese, your guide will translate the comments of the monk.
Price range:
More
€: the excursion price is less than €50.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Historical Kurashiki
4 h 00
Located in the western part of Okayama Prefecture, Kurashiki is known for the lovely, white walls of its buildings. This city developed as a port town along the Kurashiki River.
From the pier, embark your coach for the one-hour drive to the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Area. The atmosphere of the Edo Period is preserved in the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Area along the Kurashiki River, which still contains old storehouses that point to a time when this city was a vital location in the distribution of goods throughout Japan. The houses are known for their white walls and black tile roofs and are a reason why Kurashiki is sometimes called the "white-wall town." The area also includes numerous museums and sightseeing spots. All electrical wires are buried beneath the ground so there is nothing to mar the view of the buildings. Many of the buildings you have seen before entering the museum were originally rice granaries built in the late 18th century. The tiled roofs, white-washed walls, black-tiled walls with lattice windows were the characteristics of Kurashiki.
From the variety of museums, you will visit the Kurashiki museum of folk craft. Mr. Kichinosuke Tonomura, the first President of this museum, collected more than 10,000 items. His collection includes the whole range of practical goods for everyday use, such as ceramics, textiles, lacquers, baskets, wood works, metal works, pictures and so on.
Next walk to the Ohashi family old merchant house, this 200-year-old merchant's house was appointed as an Important Cultural Property in 1978. The Ohashi family built their wealth by salt farming and financial business in the Edo period (1603 - 1867). The main wing is simple and solid; fire-resistance architecture with a gate terrace, which was privileged to the high class family, is the proof of their outstanding prosperity in the area.
- This tour is mainly a walking tour and involves approximately 2.2 miles / 3.5 km of walking, mostly over flat terrain but also cobble-stone streets. You will be asked to remove your shoes when visiting the Ohashi house and the folk art museum.
Price range:
More
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Fukiya village
8 h 00
Located in the mountains of western Okayama, Fukiya Village was once the centre of production of a precious oxide pigment, called bengara, during the Edo period. Originally a copper-mining town, the discovery of iron oxide in 1707 brought prosperity to the village. The red-ochre paint can be seen throughout the main streets in the colour of the walls, blinds and roof tiles on the traditional houses maintained since the Edo period.
Your first stop will be a guided outside visit of Hirokane-tei. This 56-room residence was built in 1810, on an impressive 2,600 square metres (28,000 sq. ft) of property. Due to its beautiful Edo period architecture, the house was used as a movie set. See the main residence, workers' homes, stables from the outside walking through the gardens.
Next you will visit Bengara Museum. Bengara, a red iron oxide pigment used for painting walls and pottery, dyeing textiles and making cosmetics, was discovered by chance in the copper mines of Fukiya in 1707. It brought prosperity to the village, evident in the grand Edo-style architecture preserved on the main street. Visit this restored factory which is used to explain the process of bengara production.
Then head to the former Katayama Residence. It was established in 1759 and worked on manufacture and sales of Bengara since then. Its main room, treasure room, rice warehouse, bengara room and workplace are registered as Important cultural property of the country.
After a Japanese set lunch, enjoy some time at leisure to stroll through Furusato Village, known for the uniform red colour of its buildings, a colour rarely produced even in Japan, which has earned recognition as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings.
- The drive to and from Fukiya village takes approximately 2 hours in each direction. This tour involves approximately 1 km (0.6 mi) of walking over mostly flat terrain and some steps. You will be asked to remove your shoes before entering the Katayama residence.
Price range:
More
€€€: the excursion price is between €100 and €150.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Le Laperouse
Environmentally friendly, fitted with innovative equipment and complete with lounges designed to be largely open to the exterior, this new and intimately sized yacht offers a unique type of cruise experience.
Onboard this ship sailing under the French flag, you'll experience the incomparable pleasure of a cosily intimate cruise offering the possibility of exploring an ever-increasing range of destinations in an ethnic chic ambiance and with five-star service.
The Blue Eye, a multisensorial underwater lounge offering a unique experience unlike anything else in the world.
Until 184 Guests
92 staterooms & suites
112 crew members
Spa
2 restaurants
Decks
Guest Speaker
Aboard your ship, lecturers will enlighten you about the culture and history of your destination to deepen your knowledge of the origins of local traditions, the history of emblematic sites, the stories involving famous personalities and those of major historical significance. During on-board lectures or your shore visits, these experts will be there to share their precious knowledge with you throughout your PONANT cruise.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
During the cruise
After your cruise
Izumo & Adachi Art museum
9 h 30
From the pier, board your coach for the two-hour drive to the Izumo Taisha Shrine. It is one of the oldest shrines in Japan, and for many centuries was the largest wooden structure in the country.
The present building has a height of 25 metres (80 feet), about half of the original scale. The main hall of the shrine is dedicated to the Shinto deity of Okuninushi-no-Mikoto, a god associated with love and happiness. The shrine's architectural style is the oldest in Japan. A ceremonial rope made from plaited straw decorates the entrance. The rope is 8 metres (25 feet) long and weighs one and a half tons. You will admire this shrine from the outside only.
A 10-minute walk will take you to the Shimane Museum of Ancient Izumo for a visit. It shows the unique culture which has been handed down over the generations in Izumo. This museum was established to introduce this unique history and culture. Significant displays include burial mounds with four protuberant corners, bead making of Izumo, the Iwami-Ginzan silver mine, and the iron manufacturing process. Also, experience some of the great ancient history by seeing a specimen of cross-sectional buried tree, and a replica of a silver coin from the Iwami-Ginzan silver mine.
After a traditional Japanese lunch, visit Adachi Museum of Art. Located near Matsue city, it combines superb Japanese gardens with an outstanding collection of modern painting. Adachi’s museum is famous for its beautiful garden. In the 2011 ranking of Japanese gardens by the Sukiya Living Magazine, the gardens of the Adachi Museum of Art were ranked number one for the ninth consecutive year. The museum collection includes 1,300 of Japan's most prized paintings since the Meiji Period. Taikan Yokoyama, who is known for harmonizing Western and Japanese painting styles, is the most prominently featured artist. Viewed through the framed windows of the museum, the garden outside can also seem like a beautiful painting.
- This tour includes approximately 2 km (1.3 mile) of walking and some 50 steps. Wear comfortable walking shoes. This tour involves approximately 4 ½ hours of coach transfers. On Tuesdays the Shimane Museum is closed, the visit will be replaced by the recently restored Treasure Museum which exhibits paintings, documents and lavishly decorated containers.
Price range:
More
€€€€: the excursion price is more than €150.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Matsue Castle & paper making experience
5 h 00
From the pier, board your coach for the one-hour drive to Matsue Castle. Built in 1611 and still symbol of Matsue City, the Matsue Castle is the only remaining castle structure on the Japan Sea Coast, offering commanding views of Lake Shinji-ko and Mt. Oyama.
The castle is unique in that the second floor is wider than the first-floor base. Most of the original building has been destroyed through time, but the stone wall and six-floor donjon remains. Besides the great view from the top floor, the castle features a museum of swords and samurai armours.
Next, visit Abe Eishiro Memorial hall. This municipal museum contains documents and materials about the life and times of Abe Eishiro (1903-1985), master craftsman in hand-made Japanese paper (washi).
Washi is a style of paper that was first made in Japan. Washi is commonly made using fibres from the bark of the gampi tree, the mitsumata shrub, or the paper mulberry, but also can be made using bamboo, hemp, rice, and wheat. The word washi comes from wa (Japanese) and shi (paper). As a Japanese craft it is registered as a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage. Washi paper is generally tougher than ordinary paper made from wood pulp, and is used in many traditional arts.
During your visit, you will be able to try the ancient art of making washi paper.
On the way back to the pier, drive through Mizuki Shigery Road where you will see some of the many bronze statues depicting famous manga characters.
- This tour includes approximately 1.3 mile (2 km) of walking over uneven terrain and 200 steps. There are no elevators at the Matsue Castle. Wear comfortable walking shoes. You will be asked to remove your shoes before entering the castle and Abe Eishiro hall.
Price range:
More
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Sushi & Sake experience
3 h 00
You like sushi… Then this tour is just for you. An experienced chef will teach you how to make sushi, step by step. You will have a chance to learn how to make two kinds of sushi: “nigirizushi”, the type of sushi that consists of a piece of seafood on top of a small mound of rice, and “makizushi” sushi roll. The process of making nigirizushi looks simple, but it takes years to perfect the art of making the mound of rice with perfect pressure and moves as a professional sushi chef. After the hands-on workshop, you will taste the sushi you just made accompanied by local sake tasting.
During the sake lecture, you will learn what kind of sake goes well with seafood. Inata Sake Brewery is a leading sake company in Tottori, and has been making sake for 345 years since Edo period. Inata Sake Brewery has been preserving the culture of sake brewing in the region since its foundation in 1673.
On the way back to the pier, drive through Mizuki Shigery Road where you will see some of the many bronze statues depicting famous manga characters.
- Participants must be at least 20 years old to participate in the sake tasting. This tour is limited to 35 guests and must be booked at least 7 days prior. You will be asked to remove your shoes at the sushi making venue. The sushi chef and sake lecturer only speak Japanese, and your guide will translate all the commentary.
Price range:
More
€€€: the excursion price is between €100 and €150.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Haedongyonggungsa & fish market
3 h 30
A 45-minute drive from the port will bring you to the Haedongyonggungsa Temple. En route, you will cross the Gwangan Grand Bridge. With its 4.6-mile length, it is the country’s longest suspension bridge, offering wide views on the Oryuk Islets, Dongbaek Island and the Dalmaji Hill.
Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is located on the seaside. Unlike other temples, which are normally located in the mountains, this Buddhist temple is situated near the sea. This temple was originally built in 1376 and then reconstructed in 1970 using all the colours that were traditionally used in the structure. The birth of Buddha, celebrated in April-May (following the lunar calendar), offers spectacular night time views as the temple area is surrounded with lit lanterns. Haedong Yonggungsa is one of three sacred places related to the Goddess Buddha. There are 108 steps down to the Temple, the number of steps representing 108 anguishes in the life in Buddhism. So, you can pray to be out of the 108 anguishes, step by step, 108 times.
Back in Busan, you will visit the Jagalchi Fishery Market located next to the Fisherman’s Wharf. This market was established by women peddlers during the Korean War. Today the market rivals many in the world, with a rich variety of fresh catches from shell fish to exotic seaweeds and carved filets, ready to cook.
- This tour involves approximately 1 mile (1.6 km) of walking over sometimes wet, slippery tiles. To reach the Sanctuary, you will have to walk the 108 steps down and back up. Wear comfortable walking shoes.
Price range:
More
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Tea ceremony & temple culture
3 h 30
A 45-minute drive will bring you to the Hongbeopsa Temple, famous for having the largest Buddha statue in Asia. After a guided visit of the temple, experience a traditional tea ceremony.
The art of the Korean Tea Ceremony has been passed down for more than 1,000 years and is known for its graceful etiquette, refined beauty, and almost meditative state of personal harmony.
Tea Culture was originally one of the six offerings (with incense, flower, lantern, fruit, and rice) to Buddha. Brewing and drinking tea is considered as befitting the practice of the eight virtues taught by Buddha. The Temple’s tea ceremony is a form of meditation which aims to purify the soul and become one with nature. It will be a unique experience of learning and practicing how to enjoy the culture of tea ceremony following a monk’s or tea master’s guidance.
After the ceremony, sit down with a Buddhist Monk (if available) to ask questions and gain insight into temple life. This excursion provides a truly unique opportunity for those seeking an inspired, authentic and moving look at the Korean heritage.
Before returning to the ship, enjoy some time at leisure at the Gukje Market. Following the Korean War, refugees who fled to Busan set up stalls in order to make a living, this is how the market started. Browse through its many alleyways which stocks a wide variety of goods.
This tour is only conducted in English, there will be no translation in French. The tour is limited to 30 guests. Walking is limited to 0.6 mile (1 km) but involves some steps and inclines. Participants need to sit on the floor for 30-40 minutes during the tea ceremony. Only a limited number of chairs are provided. Your English-speaking guide will act as translator during the ceremony and question & answer session with the Monk. If the Hongbeopsa Temple is not available because of religious events, the Beomeosa Temple or Geumgangsa Temple will be visited instead. If the monk is called for official religious affairs, he will not be able to guide during the tea ceremony and the time normally spent for questions and answers will be replaced by more time at the Gukje Market.
Price range:
More
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Ground Zero & atomic bomb museum
4 h 15
From the pier, board your coach for a short drive to the Nagasaki Peace Memorial Park, commemorating the city's destruction by the atomic bomb dropped on 9 August 1945. Although “Fat Man”, the name given to the second bomb dropped on Japan, missed its target by over a mile and a half, it levelled nearly half the city. The park's main attraction is its collection of statues and sculptures donated by countries and groups all over the world. This includes the massive Peace Memorial Statue depicting a man with his right arm pointing to the sky to indicate the continued threat of nuclear destruction.
After a short walk, you will reach Ground Zero, the hypocentre of the catastrophe marked by a sober black pillar. Then visit the Atomic Bomb Museum, with over 900 artefacts indicative of the city's devastation. But more than just a commemoration, the museum promotes peace by denouncing the abomination of war and by tracing the evolution of the use of atomic weapons.
After the Peace memorial sites, you will have some time at leisure at Hamanomachi Arcade, which is a central shopping area of Nagasaki. See the craft shops, restaurants, and local food stalls.
Enjoy the scenic drive through Dejima, a man-made island created to serve as only trading post with foreign countries during the Edo era when Japan was closed to the outside world, and completed in 1635. Dutch who were permitted to trade at that time lived on island. Driving by the China town, you will see the Chinese-style gate, architecture and decorations from the coach (no stop included).
- This tour is mainly a walking tour and involves approximately 3 miles (4 km) of walking over flat terrain (including steps and elevators).
Price range:
More
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Nagasaki historical tour
4 h 15
From the pier, a short transfer will bring you to the Nagasaki Museum of History and Culture, which is one of the few museums in Japan with the theme of "Overseas Exchange". The museum holds approx. 48,000 precious collections including historical documents and arts & crafts that tell the story of how Nagasaki developed as the sole window opened to foreign countries during the period of national isolation.
Next continue to Dejima Island; a Dutch outpost that served as Japan's only contact point with the Western world for over 200 years. Dejima Museum of History portrays the history of Dejima, the manner of daily life for the Dutch who lived there, and how the trading system worked between Japan and the Netherlands.
The Oura Catholic Church, is both the oldest Gothic-style wooden building and oldest church in Japan and is the only Western artifact designated a national treasure. The church was founded by French priest Bernard Petijean, who soon dedicated it to the martyrdom of the 26 saints in Japan in 1597. Though Christianity had been banned in Japan from even before that time, in 1865 Petijean was approached by local farmers whose families had kept their faith alive in secret through the centuries. The white marble statue of the Holy Mother at the entrance of Oura Catholic Church was placed there in commemoration of these hidden Christians.
Afterwards, you will visit Glover Garden: situated on a picturesque hillside looking over Nagasaki Port, you will find a number of late 19th and early 20th century Western-style buildings gathered together. These gardens are said to be the setting for the opera "Madame Butterfly".
Reboard your coach for drive back to your ship.
- This tour involves approximately 1.9 mile (3 km) of walking. There are approximately 40 steps to climb for the visit of the Oura Church and many stairs to reach the Glover gardens. Shoes must be removed for the visit of some places.
Price range:
More
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
A trip to Chiran
4 h 15
Embark your coach for the one-hour southbound drive to Chiran, sometimes called "Little Kyoto" for all the samurai residences that have been preserved there. Several houses have been preserved along with several beautiful gardens, all around 250 years old.
The gates to the residences, moss-covered stone walls, hedges and black tile roofs help recapture the flavour of the Edo Period. Several of the residences are still being used by samurai descendants, but several gardens stay open to the public. Though small in size, each garden is a fine example of "borrowed landscaping," in which surrounding mountains and scenery have been made part of the garden design.
Not far from the Chiran Samurai Residences is the Peace Museum or Tokko Heiwa Kaikan. Dedicated to the young kamikaze pilots who trained near Chiran before embarking on suicide missions against Allied sea vessels in World War II, the museum commemorates the bravery and sad sacrifice of these young Japanese men, and makes a plea for world peace.
Return to Kagoshima and the ship following your in-depth visit to Chiran.
- This tour involves approximately 1 mile (1.5 km) of walking, mostly over flat terrain. Photography is not allowed inside the Chiran Peace Museum.
Price range:
More
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Kagoshima highlight & volcano
7 h 00
Mount Sakurajima is the symbol of Kagoshima City, and one of the world's most active volcanoes. It sits on an island that was turned into a peninsula by the lava flow of 1914.
You will reach Mt Sakurajima by coach, followed by a short ferry ride. Sights there include a road through an old lava flow and the top of what was once a large torii-style gate, with the remainder buried in hardened lava. Mt Sakurajima is also a spot of hot spring and is known for the enormous radishes that grow in its volcanic soil. Your first stop will be at the Arimura lava Observatory, located on the small hill which was created by eruption in 1946. Enjoy grand views of Sakurajima and calm Kinko-wan Bay while walking along the 0.75-mile (1.2 km) promenade and its 100 steps.
Before leaving Mt. Sakurajima, you will stop at the Sakurajima Visitor Centre, which provides information on the history of the volcanic eruptions, the evolution of its plant life and disaster prevention.
Back on the mainland, and after a traditional Japanese lunch, visit the Sengan-en garden, the former summer villa of the once powerful Shimazu clan, which overlooks Kinko Bay and Mt Sakurajima. Built in 1648, the garden has 48 hectares, but was once three times that size. The garden includes artificial rivers and mountains, a bamboo grove, plus a waterfall… and great views on the bay and the volcano.
Continue with the visit to the Shoko Shuseikan Museum which was once a factory established by lord Shimazu Nariakira in 1852 to produce armaments and promote the weapons industry. Today, it is a museum of the 700-year Shimazu family history.
This tour involves 1.9 mile (3 km) of walking, some over gravel paths. Photography is not allowed inside the Shoko Shuseikan Museum.
Price range:
More
€€€€: the excursion price is more than €150.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Miyama pottery town & Shochu distillery
5 h 30
For more than 400 years, Miyama has been the most prolific producer of Satsuma ware in Kagoshima. In Miyama, the fires of the kilns never die. Even today, the fires continue to burn, producing works with the same technique and spirit as the masters of old.
From the pier, board your coach for the one-hour drive to Chin Jukan Pottery House in Miyama. This pottery produces exceptional Satsuma ware and has a proud history spanning four centuries. These works are world-renowned for their technical brilliance and an aesthetic sense that shines throughout in every detail of the production process. At the pottery house, you will see the climbing kiln and store house, followed by a short time for shopping.
Next, learn about shochu, a Japanese distilled beverage less than 45% alcohol by volume. It is typically distilled from rice, barley, sweet potatoes, buckwheat, or brown sugar, though it is sometimes produced from other ingredients such as chestnut, sesame seeds, potatoes or even carrots. Typically, shochu contains 25% alcohol by volume, which is weaker than whisky or standard-strength vodka but stronger than wine and sake.
The Kinzangura distillery is the only distillery in Kagoshima, where the shochu is housed, fermented and stored in a mine roadway. This 120-km (75 miles) long mine roadway dug over 350 years keeps the constant temperature throughout the year and provides an optimum environment for the storage and ageing of the beverage. A short trolley train ride will take you to the fermentation house in the mine. Here, learn how the traditional shochu is made. After the visit, you will have some time for shochu tasting and maybe purchase a bottle.
- This tour involves very little walking. The average temperature inside the old mine roadway is 19°C (66°F).
Price range:
More
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Uchiko old town
4 h 30
From the pier, embark your coach for the one-hour drive to Uchiko.
Located about 50 km northeast of Uwajima, the pleasant town of Uchiko is a vestige of traditional, rural Japan. Uchiko was once a prosperous centre of wax and paper production. One of the town's main attractions, the Kamihaga Residence, explores this historical industry.
Next, enjoy a guided walk on the streets of Yokaichi, which is Uchiko's preserved street of houses where most of the town's attractions can be found. This historical district looks just as it did over 100 years ago, when wealth and prosperity came to Uchiko through its wax trade.
Omori Candle maker is one of the long-established makers and you can observe the sensitive work of the Japanese handmade candles. Your guided walk continues to the old pharmacy called museum of commercial and domestic life. You will see the various scenes of pharmacy life displayed by dolls dating back to 1921.
Another symbol of Uchiko is found outside of the old district: Uchiko-za is a full-scale kabuki theatre equipped with trap doors, hidden entrances and a rotating stage.
Reboard your coach for the one-hour drive back to your ship.
- This tour involves approximately 2.2 mile (3.5 km) of walking. The candle-maker is closed on Tuesday and Friday, another visit will be scheduled on those days. You will be asked to remove your shoes for the visit of some places.
Price range:
More
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Cultural Uwajima
4 h 30
Uwajima is located deep inside Uwajima Bay with its coast facing the Bungo Channel in southwestern Ehime. Since the early 17th century, the city has flourished as a castle town of the Date family.
Your first visit will be the beautiful terraced fields of Yusu Mizugaura. An epithet used for these terraced fields is “Plough a way to heaven”. The steep mountain slope has been transformed with stacked stones into a staircase of farmland. Its majestic scenery has been selected as an important cultural landscape and one of hundred famous views of rural Japan.
Next, you will visit Doi Pearl. The Uwajima Pearl is one of the highest graded pearl in the world. During you visit, you will learn about the method of pearl culturing, the production and distribution of pearls. After a lecture, you will have a chance to purchase pearls.
Your final stop is Nanraku-en Garden for a Tea Ceremony. The Japanese tea ceremony is a choreographic ritual of preparing and serving Japanese green tea together with traditional Japanese sweets to balance with the bitter taste of the tea. Preparing tea in this ceremony means pouring all one's attention into the predefined movements. The whole process is not about drinking tea, but is about aesthetics, preparing a bowl of tea from one's heart. The host of the ceremony always considers the guests with every movement and gesture. You will have a chance to see an authentic tea ceremony performance.
After the visit, return to the shipside.
- This tour involves approximately 1.8 miles (2 km) of walking and 150 steps. You will be asked to remove your shoes to attend the tea ceremony.
Price range:
More
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Saijo Sake Street walking tour
4 h 00
Sake is Japan's national drink, an alcoholic beverage which is made from fermented rice. It can be enjoyed hot or cold, often depending on the weather and the type of food with which it is being consumed. Saijo has long been a prime location for sake production, largely due to the high-quality spring water in its vicinity. The well water of the breweries originates from mountains 3km outside of Saijo. The quality of the water changes as it makes its way to the town, and the calcium and magnesium content in the well water becomes three times higher than that of the mountain spring water.
From the pier, board your coach for the one-hour drive to Saijo Sake Street. On arrival your guided walking tour through the main brewery district will start. The area is recognizable by the number of red brick chimneys poking into the sky. Saijo's sake industry began at the turn of the 20th century, so many of the buildings in the area have an old-world charm. There are nine breweries in Saijo Sake Street. You will visit two of them and learn about the production process, followed by some tasting of different varieties of Sake.
On the way back the pier, a photo stop will be made at Hiroshima Castle. It is a good example of a castle built on a plain in the center of a city as opposed to hilltop and mountaintop castles. Its main keep is five stories tall, and its grounds are surrounded by a moat. The castle tower was designated as a National Treasure in 1931 but was destroyed by the atomic bomb. Total renovation was completed in 1989.
- This tour involves little walking. Guests must be at least 20-years old to be served alcoholic beverages in Japan.
Price range:
More
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Remembering Hiroshima
4 h 00
In the years just following the atomic bomb blast on 6 August 1945, scientists doubted if Hiroshima could ever live again. Yet modern Hiroshima rose like a phoenix from its own ashes, and less than five decades since its obliteration, it is a vital city with a population of one million and growing.
From the pier, you will reach the poignant Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and its impressive museum. Consisting of two buildings, the museum surveys the history of Hiroshima and the advent of the nuclear bomb. Its main focus though is on the events of 6 August: the dropping of the bomb and its outcome in human suffering. The personal details displayed are quite upsetting and serve to remind that we should not take peace for granted.
Then you will walk from the museum to the Atomic Bomb Dome, passing by the Peace Memorial Park. This park is hugged by rivers on both sides, large, leafy space criss-crossed by walkways and dotted with memorials. Its central feature is the long tree-lined Pond of Peace leading to the cenotaph. This curved concrete monument holds the names of all the known victims of the bomb. Just north of the road through the park is the Children’s Peace Monument, inspired by Sadako Sasaki, who was two years old at the time of the atomic bomb. When Sadako developed leukemia at 11 years of age, she decided to fold 1,000 orizuru (paper cranes). In Japan, the crane is the symbol of longevity and happiness, and she believed if she achieved that target she would recover. Her story inspired a nationwide spate of paper-crane folding that continues to this day.
Continue to the Hiroshima Orizuru Tower. Officially opened in September 2016, it is located beside the Atomic Bomb Museum. The 50-metre-tall tower is one of the few tall buildings around the Peace Memorial Park and offers a great view of the surroundings, including the less commonly seen view of the A-Bomb Dome from above. The Orizuru Square on the 12th floor is a station where you can try to fold orizuru. These cranes can be kept as a souvenir or dropped down into the Orizuru Wall, a glass panel wall that will be filled up with these folded cranes in time to come.
- This tour involves approximately 4 km (2.5 mile) of walking. Wear comfortable walking shoes. This tour includes sensitive material including graphic pictures and displays on the atrocities of war.
Price range:
More
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Itsukushima Shrine & cooking
2 h 30
From the tender landing, a short walk will bring you to the place where you will learn how to make the local Momiji Manju. This is the area’s most popular souvenir, a small maple-leaf shaped cake filled with sweet bean paste. After this fun and hands-on experience continue to the Itsukushima Shrine for a visit.
The shrine was established in 593, the first year of the reign of Empress Suiko, and is today a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The current torii was erected in 1875 after the original one was destroyed. The shrine's torii rises 48 feet (16 metres) above the sea, its columns, made of camphor are 30 feet (10 metres) in circumference and supported by smaller pillars, which are buried in the seabed.
The construction of the sanctuary, consisting of structures on piles and pontoons, is due to the sacred status of the island. The visitors had indeed no right to dismount; when they arrived by boat, they passed under the torii and floating dock on the pontoons. Scene from Noh theatre, also on stilts, is close to the temple.
After your visit to the shrine, you will enjoy free time to discover the numerous shops located in the narrow streets.
- This tour is tour is done solely on foot and involves approximately 1 mile (1.6 km) of walking. The instructions to make the sweets will be given in Japanese and then translated by your guide. Floating Torii Gate of Itsukushima Shrine will be undergoing refurbishment.
Price range:
More
€: the excursion price is less than €50.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Itsukushima Shrine & zazen meditation
2 h 30
From the tender landing, a 30-minute walk will bring you to the Daisho-in Temple, which is located at the foot of the thickly forested Mount Misen and is one of the most famous temples in Miyajima. There you will meet a resident Buddhist monk who will perform a 30-minute meditation session with you.
Zazen is the form of meditation at the very heart of Zen practice. In fact, Zen is known as the “meditation school” of Buddhism. Basically, zazen is the study of the self.
Next, you will visit the Itsukushima Shrine. The shrine was established in 593, the first year of the reign of Empress Suiko, and is today a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The current torii was erected in 1875 after the original one was destroyed. The shrine's torii rises 48 feet above the sea, its columns, made of camphor are 30 feet in circumference and supported by smaller pillars, which are buried in the seabed.
The construction of the sanctuary, consisting of structures on piles and pontoons, is due to the sacred status of the island. The visitors had indeed no right to dismount; when they arrived by boat, they passed under the torii and floating dock on the pontoons. Scene from Noh theatre, also on stilts, is close to the temple.
After your visit to the shrine, you will enjoy free time to discover the numerous shops located in the narrow streets.
- This tour is done solely on foot and involves approximately 2.15 mile (3.5 km) of walking and 200 steps. During the meditation session, you will be seated cross legged on a zafu cushion keeping your back straight. The monk only speaks Japanese, your guide will translate the comments of the monk.
Price range:
More
€: the excursion price is less than €50.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Historical Kurashiki
4 h 00
Located in the western part of Okayama Prefecture, Kurashiki is known for the lovely, white walls of its buildings. This city developed as a port town along the Kurashiki River.
From the pier, embark your coach for the one-hour drive to the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Area. The atmosphere of the Edo Period is preserved in the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Area along the Kurashiki River, which still contains old storehouses that point to a time when this city was a vital location in the distribution of goods throughout Japan. The houses are known for their white walls and black tile roofs and are a reason why Kurashiki is sometimes called the "white-wall town." The area also includes numerous museums and sightseeing spots. All electrical wires are buried beneath the ground so there is nothing to mar the view of the buildings. Many of the buildings you have seen before entering the museum were originally rice granaries built in the late 18th century. The tiled roofs, white-washed walls, black-tiled walls with lattice windows were the characteristics of Kurashiki.
From the variety of museums, you will visit the Kurashiki museum of folk craft. Mr. Kichinosuke Tonomura, the first President of this museum, collected more than 10,000 items. His collection includes the whole range of practical goods for everyday use, such as ceramics, textiles, lacquers, baskets, wood works, metal works, pictures and so on.
Next walk to the Ohashi family old merchant house, this 200-year-old merchant's house was appointed as an Important Cultural Property in 1978. The Ohashi family built their wealth by salt farming and financial business in the Edo period (1603 - 1867). The main wing is simple and solid; fire-resistance architecture with a gate terrace, which was privileged to the high class family, is the proof of their outstanding prosperity in the area.
- This tour is mainly a walking tour and involves approximately 2.2 miles / 3.5 km of walking, mostly over flat terrain but also cobble-stone streets. You will be asked to remove your shoes when visiting the Ohashi house and the folk art museum.
Price range:
More
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Fukiya village
8 h 00
Located in the mountains of western Okayama, Fukiya Village was once the centre of production of a precious oxide pigment, called bengara, during the Edo period. Originally a copper-mining town, the discovery of iron oxide in 1707 brought prosperity to the village. The red-ochre paint can be seen throughout the main streets in the colour of the walls, blinds and roof tiles on the traditional houses maintained since the Edo period.
Your first stop will be a guided outside visit of Hirokane-tei. This 56-room residence was built in 1810, on an impressive 2,600 square metres (28,000 sq. ft) of property. Due to its beautiful Edo period architecture, the house was used as a movie set. See the main residence, workers' homes, stables from the outside walking through the gardens.
Next you will visit Bengara Museum. Bengara, a red iron oxide pigment used for painting walls and pottery, dyeing textiles and making cosmetics, was discovered by chance in the copper mines of Fukiya in 1707. It brought prosperity to the village, evident in the grand Edo-style architecture preserved on the main street. Visit this restored factory which is used to explain the process of bengara production.
Then head to the former Katayama Residence. It was established in 1759 and worked on manufacture and sales of Bengara since then. Its main room, treasure room, rice warehouse, bengara room and workplace are registered as Important cultural property of the country.
After a Japanese set lunch, enjoy some time at leisure to stroll through Furusato Village, known for the uniform red colour of its buildings, a colour rarely produced even in Japan, which has earned recognition as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings.
- The drive to and from Fukiya village takes approximately 2 hours in each direction. This tour involves approximately 1 km (0.6 mi) of walking over mostly flat terrain and some steps. You will be asked to remove your shoes before entering the Katayama residence.
Price range:
More
€€€: the excursion price is between €100 and €150.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
ANCESTRAL TRADITIONS AND WELLNESS (2 NIGHTS)
(2 nuits)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Take advantage of two unforgettable days to explore Osaka, and enjoy a wellness program with body care, in the peaceful countryside of Yoshino. This unique programme, will be a pleasant conclusion to your cruise.
Day 1 – From the port of Osaka to Yoshino
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the pier our local representative.
You will then board the coach for half a day of sightseeing in Osaka, the second largest city in Japan and the biggest merchant city in Western Japan.
Your first stop is Kuromon Market. Kuromon Market, 580 meters in length, houses about 170 shops. It is called Osaka Minami’s kitchen, as perishable foods account for 50 percent of the goods on sale in the street. Professional cooks count among the regular patrons because of the freshness and variety of the many food items on sale here. Women are drawn to Kuromon for its quality boutiques and stores dealing in kimono fabrics.
Then, you will visit the Umeda Sky building, one of the tallest buildings in Osaka. Two towers are connected at the top by a platform, over 150 meters above the heart of Osaka. This platform, at the thirty-fifth floor is the “Floating Garden” ; a 360-degree view of the urban landscape and a walk in the open-air.
Enjoy a Western style lunch in a local restaurant.
Then, you will be transferred to Mt. Yoshino, the World Heritage National Park. After approximately a 2-hour drive, you will arrive at Chikurinin Gunpoen Inn in Yoshino.
Check in.
Chikurin-in was originally a temple named Tsubakiyama Temple that is said to have been founded by a semi-legendary prince, Prince Shotoku (574-622 AD). It was a temple that was loved by the prestigious Daimyo lord Hideyoshi, monks, calligraphers, and writers. Now the temple is turned into a rich and elegant Japanese style inn with tradition and modern comfort. Our Emperor and Empress once stayed here as guests. The inn features Gunpo-en, a Japanese garden made by the legendary tea master Sen No Rikyu.
During your stay at the inn, enjoy a hot spring soak and Japanese style massage and relax.
Enjoy a Japanese dinner at the inn.
Day 2 – Yoshino
After breakfast at the inn, enjoy free time relaxing at the inn.
Then, before noon, you will take part in Zazen, a seated Zen meditation. Zazen is a way of training for monks to obtain enlightenment. It is considered the heart of Zen Buddhist practice. You will sit in the silent room separated from ordinary life.
After the meditation, you will go on a walking tour of Yoshino.
Mt. Yoshino is imbued with history and mystique, best known for the cherry blossoms that cover the entire mountain in April. The mountain became the site of a form of practice known as Shugendo which involves various ascetic practices based on mountain worship mixed with ideas deriving from various religions including Buddhism and Shinto. It is said that the cherry blossom trees were planted as offerings made by the practitioners. In 2004 the entire mountain was enlisted as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range” along with Kumano and Mt. Koya.
The Kinpusenji Temple is the centre of the spiritual realm of Yoshino and the centre of Shugendo practice. You will pay a visit to the main hall called Zao-do, which houses various Buddhist statues related to the practices of Shugendo.
After lunch at a local Japanese restaurant, your next destination in Yoshino is the Yoshimizu Shrine. Also associated with Shugendo, this shrine was originally founded as the residence for the practitioners and was later converted into the residence of Emperor Godaigo. With an abundance of stories related to the long history of Japan from exile to forbidden romance, you will be able to see various artifacts of great value. Another highlight is the architecture of the shrine itself which is the oldest example of the shoinzukuri style of Japanese traditional architecture.
Having completed your day’s visit of Yoshino, head back to your inn to relax. Dinner will be served at the inn.
Day 3 – Yoshino
Leave your fellow travellers for breakfast. Official check-out time is 11.00 am.
Your inn:
Chikurinin Gunpoen is located in the traditional garden of Chikurin-in Temple and the historical Mount Yoshino area. Guests stay in air-conditioned Japanese-style rooms. Rooms with minimalist and comfortable furnishing feature tatami (woven-straw) floors and Japanese futon bedding. Japanese Yukata robes are provided. The inn has spacious indoor and outdoor public baths to relax. Local souvenirs can be purchased at the gift shop. The on-site historical art gallery can be enjoyed as well. Gunpoen Chikurinin is a 15-minute walk from two world heritage sites which are Yoshimizu Shrine and Kimpusen Temple. Free WiFi is available at the entire property.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
- 2-night accommodation in Japanese Standard room at Chikurinin Gunpoen (or similar).
- Full board including Japanese style meals, except for one breakfast and one lunch.
- everage package during meals (mineral water + 1 soft drink + 1 Japanese tea ; or 1 coffee with western-style lunch. For meals served at the inn, you will have at your choice 1 soft drink or 1 local beer or 1 glass of sake or 1 glass of wine)
- Transfers and visits as mentioned in the programme.
- At the inn are included, an access to a privatised hot spring soak and a Japanese style massage.
- Services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
- Transfer from your hotel to the airport on day 3.
- Tips for the driver and local guide.
- Personal expenses and other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
- The local currency is the yen. We recommend that you bring the amount of money you will need for the trip.
- The bedding style at the inn will be Japanese style with futon mats on tatami.
- There will be long walks on unpaved and bumpy roads with a lot of stairs. This tour is not recommended for guests with walking difficulties.
- You will have to take off your shoes before entering any of the temples. To visit temples, it is advisable to respect dress codes (covering the upper body and legs below the knees).
- The shared hot springs at the inn : It is not possible for guests with tattoos to get in. Wearing bathing suits is not allowed, you will take a bath naked and men and women will have different bathing areas.
- Private hot spring: Each couple will have a chance to use the private hot spring together once during the stay.
- Massage: Each couple will have a chance to receive a massage together once during the stay in the room.
- Due to temple matters, Zen meditation might be replaced with sutra copying, and the venue might be changed to a nearby temple.
- A private transfer from hotel to airport can be organized at a supplement. It is imperative that your flight departure details are communicated at least 15 days prior to the beginning of your cruise, in order to secure the proper meet and greet service at the airport.
- Late check-out is available depending on availability and at a supplement.
- An additional night is possible, upon request and depending on hotel availability.
- Please, contact your travel agent for further detail.
Contact of your inn:
Chikurinin Gunpouen
2142 Oaza Yoshinoyama, Yoshino-cho, Yoshino-gun
Nara 639-3115, Japan
Telephone: +81- (0) 6-6881-1111
Duration of the visits are given as a guide only. The order of the visits may be reversed.
Total : 1.450 €
According to availability, price per passenger.