
The best of Japan
- ItineraryOsaka to BusanDuration9 days
 - Dates9 May 27 to 17 May 27Prices from
 
Come aboard Le Soléal for an unforgettable voyage.
Ponant has an ideal introduction to this captivating archipelago, inviting you on a timeless journey around the fascinating and surprising Empire of the Rising Sun, where unbridled modernism and ancestral traditions form a delightful blend, where the history of the samurai rubs shoulders with the delicateness of the geisha, and where the aromas of the tea plantations intermingle with the fragrances of cherry blossom. Dive into the heart of ancestral Japan, where each port of call unveils unsuspected treasures and unique moments.
Between temples imbued with spirituality, majestic volcanic landscapes and mystical forests, nature unveils all of its splendour. Fall under the spell of the local handicrafts, the refined flavours of thousand-year-old gastronomy, and a warm welcome that is deeply rooted in tradition. Explore sites steeped in serenity, witnesses to rich and poignant history, where each detail inspires contemplation.
Your voyage
All-inclusive

Destination
Asia
Osaka to Busan
Duration
9 days, 8 nights on board
Timeless
Offers
PONANT Bonus 20%
Ref: SO090527









Journey
Your daily itinerary
- Travel to the heart of Japan to discover its many facets: its history and ancestral traditions, its unbridled modernism, its magnificent landscapes.
 - Exceptional heritage with numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Itsukushima Shrine from Miyajima Island, the mountainous island of Yakushima, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum.
 - Among your included excursions: visit the city of Chiran from Kagoshima, the historic city of Kurashiki, experience the cultural heritage of Nagasaki.
 

Customize your journey:

Date
8 May 27

Date
17 May 27
Staterooms and suites
Elegance and refinement

Window or Porthole Stateroom
Guests
3
Size
21 m²

Lower deck balcony stateroom
Guests
2
Size
18 m²

Upper decks balcony stateroom
Guests
2
Size
18 m²

Deluxe Suite
Guests
2
Size
27 m²

Prestige Suite
Guests
4
Size
37 m²

Owner's Suite
Guests
2
Size
45 m²
*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.
Details
More information
What's Included
Important travel details
In your luggage
The best of Japan
Itinerary
Embarkation 09/05/27 from 18:00 to 19:00 Departure 09/05/27 at 20:00
9 May 27 - Osaka
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.

Arrival 10/05/27 early morning Departure 10/05/27 evening
10 May 27 - Tamano
Located on the island of Honshu, hugging the banks of the Sento Inland Sea, Tamano is a popular destination thanks to its sun-drenched climate. Upon arrival, marvel at the way in which the city has been built along the coast at the foot of a deep, dark forest. In the area surrounding Tamano, stroll down the streets of Kurashiki, known as the 'white-walled city' in a nod to the pretty façades of the houses that line the streets of this ancient Edo-period trading town. Another major regional attraction is the Seto Ohashi bridge. Its 12.5 kilometres make it the world's longest double-decker bridge.

Arrival 11/05/27 early morning Departure 11/05/27 midday
11 May 27 - Miyajima Island
At the heart of the Inland Sea, Miyajima, the “island sanctuary” will reveal its treasures. In the background you will see the Shinto Grand Sanctuary, whose entrance is guarded by a magnificent vermillion “Torii“. Considered to be one of the most beautiful sites in the Japanese islands, you will be transported by the unique character and the serenity of this sacred site.

Arrival 11/05/27 early afternoon Departure 11/05/27 evening
11 May 27 - Hiroshima
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.

Arrival 12/05/27 early morning Departure 12/05/27 evening
12 May 27 - Beppu, Oita
A favourite destination for the Japanese, Beppu is now famous throughout the Japanese archipelago thanks to its onsen – volcanic hot springs in which people immerse themselves to relax with family or friends. From Beppu, you will set off to discover a lush, peaceful valley in which sit 60 majestic stone Buddhas carved out of the cliff face between the 12th and 14th centuries. Exuding a soothing air of serenity, the Mangetsuji site seems to have drifted off to sleep in the heart of a dense bamboo forest surrounded by rice fields. Recognised as a National Treasure of Japan, this set of sacred sculptures offers travellers a unique, wonderful experience.

Arrival 13/05/27 early morning Departure 13/05/27 late afternoon
13 May 27 - Uwajima
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.

Arrival 14/05/27 midday Departure 14/05/27 evening
14 May 27 - Miyanoura, Yakushima
Yakushima is a striking island in the South of Japan, covered in forest and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hikers are very fond of this destination because of the lush vegetation, Mount Miyanoura, the waterfalls and cascades. But without a doubt, the symbol of the island remains its many age-old cedar trees which is said to have inspired some of the scenes in the animated film Princess Mononoke. On this island, you will also find wildlife including the Japanese macaque, the sika deer, and green sea turtles which lay their eggs on the magnificent sandy beaches here.

Arrival 15/05/27 early morning Departure 15/05/27 late afternoon
15 May 27 - Kagoshima
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.

Arrival 16/05/27 early morning Departure 16/05/27 mid afternoon
16 May 27 - Nagasaki
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.

Arrival 17/05/27 early morning Disembarkation 17/05/27 at 6:30
17 May 27 - Busan
With around four million inhabitants, Busan is the second largest metropolis on South Korea, after Seoul. This dynamic harbour city, located in the south-east, surrounded by the warm waters of the Sea of Japan, benefits from a mild, pleasant climate. You’ll find delightful simply to stroll around the lively streets and explore the city’s outstanding cultural heritage of art galleries, museums, and Buddhist sites, such as the Haedong Yonggungsa temple, which elegantly sits on the waterfront. Rich too in magnificent beaches and superlative natural landscapes, Busan’s peaceful atmosphere will win you over, as will its inhabitants, whom you’ll have the pleasure of meeting.

The best of Japan
Customize your journey
Discover osaka (1 night)

Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Day 1 – Osaka
Meet at Kansai International airport – Arrival Hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
Transfer from the airport located in Osaka to the 5* hotel selected by PONANT.
Day and meals at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2 - Osaka
After breakfast and check-out, you will start your full day sightseeing tour of Osaka.
You will discover the vibrant energy and the inviting spirit of Osaka. As the third-largest city in Japan, Osaka is a city of undeniable allure, where the timeless beauty of Japanese history seamlessly intertwines with modern vitality. In the third century, under the reign of Emperor Kotoku, the city emerged as Japan's first capital, laying the foundations for an empire on the rise. Throughout the centuries, its flourishing port and prosperous marketplace established Osaka as the true "granary of Japan", a pivotal crossroads where the most influential merchants exchanged both wealth and wisdom. In the 1970s, propelled by an economic renaissance, the city transformed, harmoniously blending tradition with innovation.
You will enjoy lunch in a local restaurant.
Your day will continue with a visit to the Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine. The entire Sumiyoshi Taisha, dating from the third century and rebuilt from the nineteenth century, classified “National Treasure” is dedicated to the four kami gods, of the sea and sea voyage, agriculture, diplomacy and waka poetry. The Empress Jingu (169-269), known for her conquest of Korea, is also worshiped. In the past, sea merchants would stop in Osaka to pray to Sumiyoshi Taisha, before returning to their ships.
You will then be transferred to the port of Osaka to embark on your ship.
Your programme includes:
· 1-night accommodation in Standard room at the 5* hotel selected by PONANT, local standards, including breakfast.
· Meal as mentioned in the programme.
· Beverages package during meal (mineral water + a glass of local alcohol + a Japanese tea or coffee).
· Transfers and visits as mentioned in the programme.
· Services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
· Lunch and dinner on day 1.
· Tips for the driver and local guide.
· Visa if necessary.
· Personal expenses and other services not mentioned in the programme.
· Early check-in upon your arrival at the hotel.
Please note:
· A minimum number of participants is required in order to operate. Rate and itinerary may be subject to change based on the final number of participants. Should the minimum required number not be obtained, an alternative option may be offered.
· It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
· Official hotel check-in time is 3:00 p.m.
· Official hotel check-out time is 12:00 a.m.
· Early check-in or late check-out might be available depending on availability and on a supplement basis.
· The local currency is the yen. We recommend that you bring the amount of money you will need for the trip, or you can use your credit card to withdraw yen from the cash machines (note that only Japan Post Bank & Seven Eleven machines accept foreign credit cards).
· During visits, it is advisable to respect dress codes (covering the upper body and legs below the knees).
· There will be long walk on unpaved and bumpy roads with some stairs. Many steep steps involved.
· Please be aware that a double room with a king size bed is not common in Japan. Most of the hotels do offer double rooms with twin beds. The double room king size bed is not guaranteed at the hotel.
· Kindly note that a minimum number of participants is required for this trip to proceed. As a result, both the price and itinerary may be adjusted based on the final number of participants. Should the minimum number not be met, we will offer you an alternative arrangement.
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
940 €/person*
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.Discover busan (1 night)

Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Day 1 - Busan
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local representative.
You will explore Busan, the second-largest city in South Korea.
Surrounded by mountains, Busan perfectly embodies the harmony between urban modernity and nature, blending ancient traditions with contemporary culture. It is a vibrant destination offering panoramic views of both the sea and the city. You will wander through its lively streets, discovering neighborhoods where modern architecture lights up the city.
Lunch will be served in a local restaurant.
In the late afternoon, you will check-in to the 4* hotel selected by PONANT.
Dinner at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2 - Busan
After breakfast and check-out, time at leisure depending on your flight schedule.
You will then be transferred to the airport in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
Your programme includes:
· 1-night accommodation in Standard room at the hotel 4* selected by PONANT (local standard), breakfast included.
· Meals as mentioned in the programme with beverage package (mineral water + a glass of local alcohol + a tea or a coffee).
· Transfers, visits, and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
· The services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
· Dinner on day 1.
· Personal expenses.
· Visa if necessary.
· Tips for the driver and local guide.
· Early check-in and late check-out.
· Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
· A minimum number of participants is required in order to operate. Rate and itinerary may be subject to change based on the final number of participants. Should the minimum required number not be obtained, an alternative option may be offered.
· It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
· Official hotel check-in time is 3:00 p.m.
· Official hotel check-out time is 12:00 a.m.
· Early check-in or late check-out might be available depending on availability and on a supplement basis.
· The local currency is the Won. We recommend that you bring the amount of money you will need for the trip.
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
952 €/person*
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.Flights from/ to paris + discover osaka 1 night (pre) + discover busan 1 night (post)

3,012 €/person*
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.Flights from/ to paris in business class + discover osaka 1 night (pre) + discover busan 1 night (post)

6,632 €/person*
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.













