Japan Expeditions

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Samurai, shrines & surprising wildness

Japan is imbued with an allure that has inspired for centuries. Now for the first time ever we’re venturing to this fascinating region—on two new adventurous itineraries. Roam shores brimming with temples, teahouses, and ancient traditions; discover a seldom-seen wild side on subtropical islands where azure waters meet verdant forests; plus, get a taste of Taiwan and Korea too. First impressions are everything—join us aboard National Geographic Resolution on these pioneering inaugural itineraries.

(3) Japan Itineraries

NOTE: For expeditions departing April 2024 onward, Day 1 of our itineraries will no longer reflect “departure from the U.S.” and will reflect “arrival to the city” where your expedition begins.  Durations of expeditions will remain unchanged. More details. 

Alaska

Japan

New and Noteworthy

New A Journey from Nome to Tokyo: Ring of Fire to Ainu Culture

Duration

20 days
Aug

From

$30,958

Prices are per person

Highlights

Alaska

Japan

New and Noteworthy

New A Journey from Nome to Tokyo: Ring of Fire to Ainu Culture

Duration

20 days
Aug

From

$30,958

Top Highlights

  • Witness a profusion of rare wildlife in Alaska’s Pribilof and Aleutian Islands, from the deck of our ship or aboard a nimble Zodiac: from whiskered auklets and northern fur seals to Steller’s sea eagles and brown bears.
  • Spot the sacred red-crowned crane on a visit to the wetlands of Kushiro in Hokkaido, and learn about the culture of Hokkaido’s indigenous Ainu people on visits to a village and a living history museum.
  • Delve into the history of the shoguns and samurai while visiting castle ruins in Sendai, the Tokugawa hub of Mito, and the spectacular Kairakuen gardens.
  • Enjoy a rich program of lectures by an expert team of naturalists, historians, and photographers; and take advantage of the National Geographic Resolution’s many amenities, from wellness programs and spa treatments to gourmet dining options and wine tastings.

Japan

New and Noteworthy

New Coastal Japan: Imperial Dynasties and Modern Culture 

Duration

16 days
  1. Aug
  2. Sep

From

$24,650

Prices are per person

Highlights

Japan

New and Noteworthy

New Coastal Japan: Imperial Dynasties and Modern Culture 

Duration

16 days
  1. Aug
  2. Sep

From

$24,650

Top Highlights

  • Delve into the history of the samurai and their feudal lords while visiting castles and samurai districts in Kanazawa, Matsue, and Uwajima
  • Explore the rich cultural legacy of Korea’s Silla Dynasty among the incredible ancient ruins of Gyeongju, a UNESCO World Heritage site
  • Get inspired on the art-filled island of Naoshima and visit museums and studios dedicated to artists and traditional handicrafts in Matsue and in Takamatsu
  • Meander through Kenroku-en, Koraku-en, and Sengan-en, three unique Japanese gardens that are considered some of the most beautiful in the country

Japan

New and Noteworthy

New Sailing the East China Sea: Japan, Okinawa, and Taiwan

Duration

15 days
Sep

From

$20,050

Prices are per person

Highlights

Japan

New and Noteworthy

New Sailing the East China Sea: Japan, Okinawa, and Taiwan

Duration

15 days
Sep

From

$20,050

Top Highlights

  • Experience some of Japan’s most cherished sites, from Himeji Castle and the historic merchant towns of Ozu and Uchiko to the “floating” torii gate at Miyajima
  • Explore Naoshima, an island transformed by art and cutting-edge architecture, and visit the culinary hub of Shodoshima
  • Snorkel the coral reefs of Kerama Island and venture into the mangrove forests of the Yaeyama Islands by Zodiac or kayak
  • Hike among ancient cedar trees in Yakushima’s rainforest and marvel at the incredible hoodoo spires in Taiwan’s Yehliu Geopark

Expedition Highlights

Contrast the brightly lit metropolis of Tokyo with the narrow, winding streets of Kanazawa’s well-preserved samurai districts. Discover fascinating tales of feudal lords while visiting their castles, shrines, and gardens. And see firsthand how the Japanese have elevated everyday rituals—tea, sake, kimonos, sushi, floral arranging—into spectacular art forms. Only 400 of Japan’s nearly 7,000 islands are inhabited. Our explorations also take us beyond the populous borders of Honshu into wilder realms. Or snorkel through crystal waters that are home to sea turtles, manta rays, and the elusive Okinawa dugong. In Taiwan’s Yehliu Geopark, witness incredible hoodoo spires.

See more Highlights

Ready for the adventure of a lifetime?

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Introducing Japan

I came here having no idea what to expect, but it’s just been magical. The food, the scenery, the people, the wildlife, all of it.

Ken C.

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Joining us on this expedition means signing up for adventure; and the reward for your curiosity is inevitable—the most exhilarating experience of pure discovery possible.

Sven-Olof Lindblad

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Talk to an Expedition Specialist

Call now

Make a reservation

Book Now

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