Hidden Gems in Japan, with Ponant By World Journeys

An exclusive cruise with Ponant

Set sail on an inspiring exploration and expertly curated charter cruise from Kobe to Kumamoto, with Ponant. Discover the very essence of the Japan’s sacred sites, dramatic nature and warm hospitality. Begin in the port city of Kobe, before venturing into the breathtaking Seto Inland Sea to discover charming fishing villages like Mitarai. Visit Miyajima’s floating torii gate and travel to the rugged, cliff-lined beauty of Koshikijima Island and the ancient forests of Yakushima. The journey also provides a glimpse into South Korea’s vibrant port city of Busan. Back in Japan, uncover layers of history and traditions.

Visit places not found in guidebooks, stopping in to ports not accessible to larger vessels, with excursions by Zodiac craft allowing access to small rural villages and towns.

Exclusive experiences:
At select ports of call, guests can engage in cultural experiences, connect with residents, and savour dishes made from local ingredients. Examples include:

• Enjoy a live performance of Japanese court music (gagaku) and Japanese harp (koto) and see music and history intertwine.
• Walk among Yakushima Island’s ancient  Yakusugi cedars. Routes can be tailored to suit any fitness level, making this a memorable experience for everyone.
• At Hagi Fishing Port, a hot spot for fresh seafood, enjoy unique dishes and other activities showcasing local culture.

Your ship: Le Jacques-Cartier
Launched in 2020, Le Jacques-Cartier is the latest addition to the PONANT Explorers range of vessels, combining modern design and innovative technologies for an intimate and refined cruise experience. With a maximum of 184 guests, Le Jacques-Cartier is able to visit smaller ports inaccessible to large ships, and is able to anchor offshore, using Zodiac craft for landings.

Cabins: With elegant and modern décor, all cabins feature ensuite bathroom with shower, air-conditioning, wi-fi, TV, safe, minibar, toiletries and 24-hour room service. Enjoy the views from the panoramic windows or make the most of your balcony, depending on the cabin of your choice.

Lower Deck Balcony Stateroom: 19 sqm. Private 4 sqm balcony. Porthole and glass door. King bed, or two singles. 2 guests.

Upper Deck Balcony Stateroom: 19 sqm. Private 4 sqm balcony. Either a sliding panoramic window or a glass door. Chaise lounge. King bed, or two singles. 2 guests.

Deluxe Suite: 27 sqm. Private balcony from 3 to 6 sqm. Panoramic glass door and porthole OR a sliding panoramic window. King bed, or two singles. Armchair and sofa. Up to 3 guests.

Prestige Suite: 38 sqm. Private balcony 8 sqm. Two sliding panoramic windows. Priority boarding, welcome champagne, daily fruit basket and butler service (Prestige Suite deck 6 only). One bedroom with King bed or two singles. Living room with convertible sofa, armchair. Two bathrooms. Up to 4 guests.

Cherry Blossom Japan By World Journeys

24 March 2027

Each spring, Japan’s landscape is host to fragile pink and white sakura blooming; stunning colour that is celebrated throughout the entire country. Start this journey in bustling Tokyo and see its impressive gardens, go in search of the famous ‘snow monkeys’ and the alpine ‘old town’ of Takayama. On to cultural Kyoto and poignant Hiroshima, ending with spectacular views of Mt Fuji from the top of Mt Owakudani. This unique and incredibly scenic country with enchanting culture, wonderful cuisine and gracious people awaits you.

YOUR JOURNEY AT A GLANCE

• Enjoy Tokyo’s mix of traditional and modern culture
• Visit the ‘snow monkeys’ in Yudanaka
• Explore Japan’s most atmospheric townscape, Takayama
• Visit some of the best spots for cherry blossom colour
• See beautiful Buddhist temples, imperial palaces, and the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove in Kyoto
• Visit poignant yet vibrant Hiroshima
• See spectacular views of Mt Fuji, an iconic landmark
• A World Journeys host to guide you every step of the way

**SPECIAL EXPERIENCES**

Enjoy the ultimate sushi-lovers experience in Tokyo

A sushi master will guide us through making sushi rolls and nigiri which we will then enjoy for lunch

Visit steaming hot springs to see monkeys bathing

Visit Yudanaka Onsen to see wild snow monkeys relaxing in the steaming hot springs surrounded by thick forest

Tour the historic villages of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama

Set in a mountainous region that was cut off from the rest of the world for a long period of time, these villages with their Gassho-style houses subsisted on the cultivation of mulberry trees and the rearing of silkworms. On this tour you’ll see the large houses with their steeply pitched thatched roofs, the only examples of their kind in Japan.

Archipelagos of the East | Oceania Vista

Solo Deals

Cruise:
Tokyo to SingaporeSet Sail: 11 April 2027

Essence of Japan, with Ponant By World Journeys

An exclusive cruise with Ponant

Embark on an expertly curated charter cruise from Yokohama to Kobe with Ponant during cherry blossom season. Small-ship, expedition-style cruising with Ponant explores Japan’s cultural treasures, scenic coastlines and lesser visited gems, with special experiences designed to reveal an authentic Japan.

Discover bustling seafood markets and tranquil tea plantations, ancient Zen Buddhist shrines, and the stunning Setouchi Islands of the Seto Inland Sea. Stroll the Old Town streets of some of Japan’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and visit the vibrant port city of Busan for a taste of South Korea.

Visit places not found in guidebooks, stopping in to ports not accessible to larger vessels, with excursions by Zodiac craft allowing access to small rural villages and towns.

Onboard naturalists enhance your experience with their expert knowledge during shore excursions, while onboard you may enjoy Japanese traditions such as a tea ceremony, a kimono dressing experience, and delicious creations from an onboard Japanese chef.

Exclusive experiences:
At select ports of call, guests can engage in cultural experiences, connect with residents, and savour dishes made from local ingredients. Examples include:
• A Sake Relay brings premium sake from local breweries onboard to be enjoyed at the ship’s bar, allowing guests to taste renowned regional sakes without visiting the breweries.
• A demonstration of the carving of freshly caught tuna, which is then served to guests at peak freshness – an unforgettable culinary moment.
• Live performances of Japanese folk music is performed at select seaside spots and inside historical old residences.

Your ship: Le Jacques-Cartier
Launched in 2020, Le Jacques-Cartier is the latest addition to the PONANT Explorers range of vessels, combining modern design and innovative technologies for an intimate and refined cruise experience. With a maximum of 184 guests, Le Jacques-Cartier is able to visit smaller ports inaccessible to large ships, and is able to anchor offshore. The ship’s hydraulic platform allows the use of Zodiac craft for landings.

Two restaurants offer a selection of French, International and of course Japanese cuisines, with 24-hour room service also available. Public spaces include the Main Lounge where you can often enjoy live music, the Panoramic Lounge for spectacular views; and the world’s only underwater lounge – the Blue Eye. Daily briefings and talks are given in the the theatre, along with various entertainment options.

Cabins: With elegant and modern décor, all cabins feature balconies, ensuite bathroom with shower, air-conditioning, wi-fi, TV, safe, minibar, toiletries and 24-hour room service. Enjoy the views from the panoramic windows or make the most of your balcony, depending on the cabin of your choice.

Lower Deck Balcony Stateroom: 19 sqm. Private 4 sqm balcony. Porthole and glass door. King bed, or two singles. 2 guests.

Upper Deck Balcony Stateroom: 19 sqm. Private 4 sqm balcony. Either a sliding panoramic window or a glass door. Chaise lounge. King bed, or two singles. 2 guests.

Deluxe Suite: 27 sqm. Private balcony from 3 to 6 sqm. Panoramic glass door and porthole OR a sliding panoramic window. King bed, or two singles. Armchair and sofa. Up to 3 guests.

Prestige Suite: 38 sqm. Private balcony 8 sqm. Two sliding panoramic windows. Priority boarding, welcome champagne, daily fruit basket and butler service (Prestige Suite deck 6 only). One bedroom with King bed or two singles. Living room with convertible sofa, armchair. Two bathrooms. Up to 4 guests.

Culinary Japan By World Journeys

Culinary Japan By World Journeys

Embark on a sumptuous culinary journey through Japan, exploring the unique tastes and sights of this gracious country. Beginning in Tokyo, try your hand at sushi making, visit Kappabashi Kitchenware Street, and explore the izakayas of Kagurazaka. Next, experience a tea ceremony and savour an “ocean to table” sushi dinner in Kanazawa. Travel on to Takayama, where you’ll enjoy elaborate Kaiseki dinners featuring the local specialty of Hida Beef, along with a countryside cooking lesson. In Kyoto, learn how to make traditional Japanese sweets and visit the Wazuka tea area. Your journey ends in Osaka with a visit to the Yamazaki Whisky distillery, and the Dotonbori and Shinshaibashi food streets. Finish with a farewell dinner at a teppanyaki restaurant, including the local specialty of okonomiyaki.

Family Japan By World Journeys

Family Japan By World Journeys

This family-friendly adventure is sure to create lasting memories. Discover the bustling metropolis of Tokyo, with so much to do and see. Spend time in Hakone and enjoy spectacular views and a hands-on woodblock workshop. Experience Nara’s wildlife and nature before indulging in Osaka’s street food. Let Kyoto’s serene beauty and traditions inspire you before your journey ends.

Gardens & Traditions of Japan By World Journeys

Gardens & Traditions of Japan By World Journeys

Travel off the beaten path to experience a peaceful and traditional side of Japan that is difficult to find in the big cities, without missing out on the vibrant streets of Tokyo and the cultural treasures of Kyoto.

Visit some of the most beautiful gardens in the country, from strolling gardens of the feudal lords, to serene temple gardens filled with moss and modern gardens that blend new ideas with old traditions. Along the way, immerse yourself in Japan’s hot spring culture with a stay in a historic onsen town. Included ryokan stays will allow you to experience “omotenashi” – true Japanese hospitality.

Highlights of Japan By World Journeys

Highlights of Japan By World Journeys

A wonderful introduction to Japan – from the bustle of Tokyo to the majesty of Mt Fuji. Tranquility abounds in Hakone where you will experience staying in a traditional Japanese inn (ryokan). In Kyoto explore the historic sites and temples. To visit Hiroshima is a moving experience as you view this city that has been rebuilt from ashes into one that is prosperous and vibrant.

Japan Adventure By World Journeys

Japan Adventure By World Journeys

This unforgettable journey takes you through vibrant cities and picturesque scenery. Start in Tokyo, diving straight into its vibrant culture with a fun sushi-making experience and exploring lively markets and historic spots. You’ll then fly to Tokushima to uncover unique traditions like indigo dyeing and fascinating puppet theatre, even catching an energetic Awa Odori dance. The Shikoku Pilgrimage route offer a profound glimpse into local spiritual life. Next, escape to the stunning, remote Iya Valley, famous for its vine bridges and a chance to try your hand at soba noodle making. After a relaxing soak in Dogo Onsen, brace yourself for an exhilarating multi-day cycling trip along the Shimanami Kaido, boasting incredible island views. Your unforgettable trip wraps up in Osaka, leaving you with lasting memories of Japan’s diverse beauty!