Itsukushima, or Miyajima, a serene island in Hiroshima Bay, Japan. Home to ancient temples and a famous partially submerged orange Great Torii Gate at high tide, marking the entrance to the 12th-century Itsukushima Shrine.

Bulguksa, a significant Buddhist temple on Tohamsan housing six National Treasures, including stone pagodas, Cheongun-gyo, and Buddha statues, in Jinheon-dong, Gyeongju, North Gyeongsang Province, South Korea.

Local tradtional food in North Gyeongsang Province, Gyeongju, South Korea.

Lindblad Expeditions ship National Geographic Resolution in Uwajima, Japan.

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ExpeditionsJapan’s Western Shores: Ancient Traditions and Natural Beauty

Japan’s Western Shores: Ancient Traditions and Natural Beauty

Exploring the storied waters between Japan and Korea reveals coastlines shaped by ancient kingdoms, maritime trade and deeply layered cultural traditions. This voyage brings you into places where spiritual rituals, everyday craftsmanship and coastal life remain closely tied to the land—whether in mountain-ringed northern villages or along quiet rural shores. With unhurried time in small ports, you’ll meet local experts, witness heritage in its authentic context and gain a deeper understanding of how these communities have evolved at the edge of sea and sky.

Highlights

Matsue castle in Matsue, Shimane Prefecture, Japan

Step inside historic temples and cliffside shrines with cultural specialists who illuminate their enduring significance
Explore traditional districts where artisans continue centuries-old craftsmanship
Witness the dramatic coastal landscapes of Kyushu and Shikoku, where fishing villages and pilgrimage routes reveal centuries of maritime tradition
Experience the canyons and hiking trails of Toyama’s Northern Alps
Immerse yourself in South Korea’s ancient Silla kingdom, exploring Gyeongju’s UNESCO-designated temples, royal tombs and artifacts

From

$29,990

/ per person

Does not include any flights

Book Now

dates

Jun

duration

16 Days

ships

National Geographic Resolution

starts at

Osaka, Japan

ends at

Sapporo, Japan

View our brochure for more details

Explorations

Talk to an Expedition Specialist1.800.397.3348

From

$29,990

/ per person

Book Now

dates

Jun

duration

16 Days

ships

National Geographic Resolution

starts at

Osaka, Japan

ends at

Sapporo, Japan

View our brochure for more details

Explorations

From

$29,990

/ per person

Book Now

dates

Jun

duration

16 Days

ships

National Geographic Resolution

starts at

Osaka, Japan

ends at

Sapporo, Japan

View our brochure for more details

Explorations

Ships

National Geographic Resolution

GUESTS 138

CABINS 76

DECKS 6

The second of two new polar builds, the National Geographic Resolution is named to honor the second voyage of the legendary Captain James Cook.

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Expedition Team

Our captains, crew, staff and guides make up the most experienced team in the industry—committed to making every voyage unforgettable. Veteran captains, with decades at sea, are experts at navigating in all conditions, while seasoned naturalists bring advanced knowledge in fields such as geology, wildlife biology and climate science. Many of these professionals have been with us for decades, and their insights bring each destination to life in ways that profoundly enrich your journey. Their expertise is the foundation for the meaningful and transformative experiences we offer in the world’s most extraordinary places.