Alaska to Japan: Ring of Fire to Ainu Culture
Trace the Pacific’s “Ring of Fire” between Alaska’s volcanic Aleutian Islands and the rugged island of Hokkaido, Japan. Discover the wild, seldom-visited islands of the Bering Sea, encountering millions of seabirds as well as northern fur seals and bears in the Pribilof and Aleutian Islands. View the towering volcanic cones that frame Hokkaido—home to more than 51 volcanoes—and explore how these dramatic landscapes have shaped Ainu and Shinto traditions and centuries of Japanese history.
Highlights
Explore the dramatic Aleutian Islands, where volcanic cones rise from the sea and wildlife thrives—from pods of orcas to brown bears and soaring bald eagles
Search for the sacred red-crowned crane on a visit to the wetlands of Kushiro on Hokkaido
Learn about the culture of Hokkaido’s indigenous Ainu people on visits to a village and a living history museum
Experience the Pribilof Islands, remote seabird enclaves teeming with whiskered auklets, red-legged kittiwakes and horned and tufted puffins
Enjoy a rich program of lectures by an expert team of naturalists, historians and photographers
National Geographic Photography Expert
Join Chris Rainier on the Aug. 20, 2026 departure
From
$35,980
/ per person
Does not include any flights
View our brochure for more details
Alaska
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.
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.
Special Offers
SUITE EXCLUSIVES
CELEBRATE LIFE'S MILESTONES
10% OFF BACK-TO-BACK VOYAGES
BRINGING THE KIDS
SAVE 5% TRAVELING AS A GROUP
PAY BY DEBIT: EARN A $100 ONBOARD CREDIT
COMBINING OFFERS
View our brochure for more details
Alaska