The perfect way to explore Japan is by sea. Nowhere in this ‘Land of the Rising Sun’ is far from the sea and indeed most of the more beautiful and interesting places are on the coast or on offshore islands. Our itinerary is a marvellous balance of ancient castles, serenely beautiful gardens and opulent temples and shrines combined with Japan’s lovely natural landscapes. Like all well-planned itineraries we will include some of the country’s best known highlights, but equally we will also take you to some places that foreign tourists rarely set foot.

Our vessel, the 128-passenger MS Clipper Odyssey, allows us to visit out of the way destinations and remote stretches of coast which would not be practical on a regular land tour. It is in such places that we find timeless villages, rural landscapes and a rich cultural heritage that are a million miles from the densely populated cities of central Japan. Such places provide the strongest of memories and allow you to immerse yourself in the myth and mystique of this ancient land. In addition, as our course takes us past the south eastern tip of Korea, we cannot resist a day in Kyongju, the ‘Museum withoutWalls’ where history comes vividly to life among the tombs, temples, shrines and pleasure gardens. Join us on this voyage of discovery and venture along the historic shores and off the well beaten tourist paths. May is the ideal time to see the countryside at its most verdant and whilst temperatures are still pleasant.

Please note that although we do not class this cruise as an expedition cruise, Zodiac landing craft will be used on some day for landings or to explore coastal regions.