Springtime Splendour in Japan
Heritage Expeditions
10 day expedition cruise from $15,150 per person, twin share*
Sales from 01 October 2026 to 30 November 2026
Book & Win
Book any Heritage Expedition Cruise to the minimum value of $5,000 per person with YOU Travel & Cruise and you will go in the draw to win a $10,000 YOU Travel & Cruise voucher. Terms and conditions apply.
Coinciding with the tail end of Japan’s famed Cherry Blossom season and Japan’s most enchanting season, Heritage Expeditions brand new 10-day Springtime Splendour in Japan Cruise will immerse you in the beauty of the soul of Japan.
Considered one of the best times to visit Japan, this all-inclusive cruise will see you exploring Japan’s main island, Honshu, and its southern wonders, the UNESCO registered Global Geopark of Oki Islands as well as South Korea’s Ulsan. Combining Japan’s ancient culture and storied history with the vivid beauty of spring, this voyage explores castles, gardens and sacred shrines, dramatic coastlines and geological wonders, all while savouring the flavours of Japan’s indelible culture and world-renowned experiences, cuisine and sake.
Departing from Osaka, dubbed the ‘Nation's Kitchen’ and Japan’s bustling commercial centre, our Japan spring cruise will visit iconic highlights alongside rarely visited gems only accessible by expedition ship. Discover Kyoto’s famed 1,001 Senju Kannon statues, historic Pontocho Alley, Nishiki Market and Fushimi’s sake heritage. Sail the Seto Inland Sea and visit historic Hiroshima and its Peace Memorial Park and eternal Flame of Peace, marvel at Miyajima’s famed floating Torii Gate and sacred Itsukushima Shrine. Travel along the Sea of Japan to discover the 300-million-year-old Akiyoshido Cave in the former samurai-dominated Hagi.
Sure to be a highlight is the hidden-gem, Oki Islands. Part of the Daisen-Oki National Park and a UNESCO registered Global Geopark, these dramatic and sparsely populated islands are home to soaring cliffs, pristine coves and Mt Daimanji, which is more than 600 metres above sea level. We will also explore Mt Daisen on the mainland, another dramatic highlight of this volcanic region.
Marvel at the world’s largest inshore reef system at nearby Montgomery Reef, which ‘rises’ out of the water with the falling tide. Discover Japan’s ‘Pufferfish/Fugu Capital’ in Shimoneseki where we will have the opportunity to sample this local delicacy at the world famous Karato Fish Market. In Ulsan, South Korea discover ancient Gyeongju, capital of the Silla Dynasty and visit the Gyeongju National Museum, while having the opportunity to experience authentic Korean cuisine and cultural performances.
Surrounded by changing colours of springtime Japan, we plan to visit, Shiranoe Botanical Garden the elegant Yuushien Garden, alongside one of Japan’s three great gardens, the 28-acre formal 17th Century Koraku-en Garden.
History and culture connoisseurs will relish visits to Adachi Museum of Art and Ohara Museum of Art and Japan’s renowned art island Naoshima, while chances to explore Osaka, Hagi, Kokura and Matsue Castle, one of Japan’s few original 17th Century castles, will transport you back to feudal Japan.
Further enhancing your Japan cruise, on board expert guest speakers and Japanese guides, as well as local, on the ground guides, will share Japan’s ancient history, customs and traditions of this captivating country as this unforgettable adventure unfolds.
Cruise from Osaka roundtrip
10 Days
Set Sail | 17 April 2027
| Cabin Category | Pricing per person |
| Deck 4 Supeiror | $15,150* |
Important Note: Prices are NZD per person twin share and subject to availability & currency fluctuations based on 17 April 2027 departure, costs may vary for alternative dates & stateroom classes.
Style: Expedition Cruising
Dress Code: Casual during the day | Smart casual in the evening
Inclusions
- 10 Day Expedition Cruise onboard Heritage Adventurer
- Landing fees
- Pre/post cruise transfers
- Hotel Accommodation including dinner and breakfast
- All on board ship accommodation with meals, house beer, wine and soft drinks with lunch and dinner
- All expedition shore excursions
- Programme of lectures by noted naturalists.
BONUS: Book before 30 October 2026 and SAVE 20% on all cabins for selected cruises departing in 2027.
Terms and Conditions: *Prices are per person, in NZD, based on share twin occupancy, subject to availability, and currency fluctuations. Offers valid on new bookings made up to 30 November 26 unless sold out prior. For new bookings made between 01 October - 30 November 2026 at 5pm (AEST) only. General Conditions: Pricing is correct as at 21 September 2026, subject to availability, currency fluctuation & may be amended or withdrawn at any time without notice. Valid for new bookings only & not combinable with any other offer. All offers are capacity controlled & may not be available on all departure dates & stateroom categories. Higher fares may apply to other dates & categories. Due to the popularity of cruising, fares detailed cannot be guaranteed, they are subject to change or withdrawal at any time without notice up until full payment is received. Prices are based on cash, cheque or bank transfer payment only. We welcome ALL major credit cards; a credit card processing fee will apply. Deposits & final payments will be required to secure bookings. Strict amendment & cancellation conditions apply. Itinerary routings are also subject to change at the discretion of the cruise company. Cruise lines reserve the right to impose a fuel surcharge should oil prices exceed their specific threshold per barrel. It is the responsibility of the passenger to ensure they have a valid visa to enter those countries that require one. All cruises are subject to the full booking & passage conditions of the respective cruise line, which passengers are bound by. Travel agent services fees will apply. Whilst every care is taken to accurately present the information & pricing we reserve the right to correct any errors or omissions. Book & Win Book any cruise to the minimum value of $5,000 per person with YOU Travel & Cruise and you will go in the draw to win a $10,000 YOU Travel & Cruise voucher. Terms and conditions apply. For full terms & conditions visit your local Cruise Specialist.