Japan and Korea cruise: Cultural Shores and Northern Landscapes - Swan Hellenic

Expedition Highlights

A region of vivid contrasts, from coral seas and island cultures to ports shaped by trade and deep-rooted traditions, all brought to life by expert context.

Expert-led Talks

Learn more about the region you're exploring from our team of expedition experts.

Japan in Detail

Experience Japan through places that still carry the country’s feudal and craft traditions, from castle towns to ports shaped by trade.

Natural Walks

Enjoy expert-led excursions to historic landmarks, serene temples, and national parks.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

From Hiroshima along the Sea of Japan coast, through Korea, and north to Hokkaido

NOTE: This itinerary provides general information about each destination. Also, please be aware that some of the venues and highlights mentioned may not be open or accessible on the day we visit. For the most accurate tour program, we recommend contacting your Swan Hellenic agent or travel agent closer to your departure date.

Overview

Day 1

Hiroshima

Hiroshima is a city of quiet strength, where modern life sits beside places of remembrance. It is also a gateway to nearby sacred landscapes, with calm coastal scenery and a strong sense of local tradition. It is an opening that sets a thoughtful tone for the voyage

Day 2

Beppu

Beppu is best known for Jigoku Meguri ("Boiling Hells") - seven vivid geothermal springs too hot for bathing but offering stunning colours, bubbling mud and soaring steam. Nearby, Mount Takasaki's 1,500 wild Japanese macaques can be seen up close at Takasakiyama Monkey Park. A short trip away, Usuki features 60 stone-carved Buddhist statues in peaceful park grounds with feudal castle ruins and 1,000 cherry trees

Day 2

Cruising Kanmon Strait

Sailing through the Kanmon Strait is challenging with strong currents and an S-shaped bend. One of the world’s busiest shipping lanes, the strait cuts a dramatic 38 km (24 mi) channel, narrowing to 700 m (0.4 mi) at its tightest point. The graceful Kanmon Bridge, a 1,068-m (3,504-ft) suspension bridge, spans the waterway between Honshu and Kyushu. Shimonoseki overlooks the strait from Honshu, while Moji district stands watch from Kyushu

Day 3

Karatsu

A castle town on the northern coast of Kyushu, where a 16th-century fortress sits on a pine-covered promontory above the bay. Karatsu is one of Japan's principal centres of ceramic production — Karatsu ware has supplied tea ceremony vessels since the late Muromachi period, and working kilns still operate on the town's outskirts. The beach of Niji-no-Matsubara, a coastal pine forest stretching several kilometres along the shore, has been considered one of Japan's three most scenic pine groves for centuries

Day 4

Busan

Busan is a port city with beaches, hills, and a busy harbour energy. It blends memorial sites and modern neighbourhoods with markets that still feel local and direct. Compared to Japan’s smaller ports, it is louder, bigger, and more urban

Day 5

Sakaiminato

Sakaiminato has the feel of a working coastal town, shaped by seafood, folklore, and a slower pace. Nearby landscapes shift quickly from shoreline to forested mountains, with gardens and museum spaces that match the region’s quiet aesthetic. It is a softer, more intimate stop after Busan

Day 6

Ine

A fishing village on the northern coast of the Tango Peninsula, where around 230 funaya — traditional boathouses built directly over the water — line the inner shore of a near-circular bay. Residents moor their boats on the ground floor and live above. The village has changed little in two centuries and carries national preservation status. Approached from the sea, the funaya present an unbroken wooden facade at the waterline — one of the most distinctive streetscapes in Japan

Days 6-7

Maizuru

Maizuru carries naval history and a clear link to the Meiji era, with brick warehouses and a harbour built for strategy. The wider region opens into classic Kyoto area scenery, where refined culture, temples, and historic districts are within reach. It is a day that balances port history with inland elegance

Day 8

Wajima

Wajima, a port town on the northern Noto Peninsula, is famed for its Wajima-nuri lacquerware, which is renowned for its durability and displayed at the Museum of Lacquer Art. The thousand-year-old daily Asaichi (Morning) Market is the primary hub, buzzing with locals selling fresh seafood, produce and the distinctive lacquerware. Nearby, Kiriko Hall displays huge illuminated festival floats, some 15 metres tall, used in summer celebrations

Day 9

Ogi, Sado Island

Sado, Japan's sixth largest island, has a quaint port at Ogi known for tarai-bune, traditional wooden boats. The island is also famous for its world-renowned taiko drummers, continuing a rich cultural tradition. Once a place of exile for artists and academics, Sado now draws visitors to its rugged coasts, hidden beaches and lush terrain for outdoor activities

Day 10

Sakata

Sakata, a port city on the Mogami river, thrived on rice and safflower trade. The traditional 1893 Sankyo Rice Storehouses, shaded by zelkova trees, are now a cultural hub with shops. The city's quiet streets feature preserved, wealthy Edo-era homes, including the Honma Museum of Art with fine art and gardens. South of the river, The Ken Domon Museum honours the famed photographer’s powerful work, including images of Hiroshima survivors

Day 11

Hakodate

The city of Hakodate in Hokkaido is Japan's northernmost island and is well-known for its seafood, for sale daily at the morning market. Mount Hakodate, reached by gondola, watches over the bustling city. While the area is rich in hot springs, it is best known for the famous snow monkeys who bathe in the hot springs of Yunokawa Onsen at the Hakodate City Tropical Botanical Garden

Day 12

Otaru

An important port on Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, Otaru retains original architecture. Restored warehouses along its canal, lined with Victorian street lamps, house restaurants and boutiques selling sake, music boxes and renowned Otaru glass. Rooted in the herring industry, the town's trading history is evident from Hokkaido's first railway line terminal to the Herring Mansion on the outskirts, once owned by wealthy herring fishermen

Onboard Experts & Lecturers

Ralf Klug

Expedition Leader

With a degree in Hotel Management alongside a wealth of first-hand hotel and hospitality experience, Ralf is a highly accomplished dive instructor, Zodiac driver and Antarctica field guide. Originally from Germany, his career has taken him the world over, from luxury resorts across Europe and the Caribbean to the wilds of Antarctica and many more in between. His unique skillset has since led him to life as an experienced, passionate and knowledgeable cruise expedition guide

Gustav Jonsson Länne

Assistant Expedition Leader

Born in Sweden, Gustav has a natural love for all things nature and wildlife. His extensive background as a naturalist is complemented by years of experience guiding expeditions in diverse environments, from the polar regions to the Red Sea. Gustav discovered his passion for the ocean while scuba diving in Egypt, sparking a career dedicated to exploring and sharing the wonders of the natural world. He has since worked on cruise ships as an expedition guide and naturalist, bringing destinations to life with his deep knowledge and infectious enthusiasm.

Julia Klug

Assistant Expedition Leader

Originally from Germany, Julia moved to the Caribbean 26 years ago, beginning a lifelong adventure shaped by different cultures, nature and travel. With a background in hospitality and tourism, she spent 23 years in the industry, progressing to General Hotel Manager and Resort Manager before joining Swan Hellenic as a Guide and later Assistant Expedition Leader. A certified Rescue Diver with 30 years of diving experience, Julia is passionate about marine life and conservation. Based in Bonaire, she also works as a local tour guide and volunteers to protect turtles and flamingos and keep the island clean.

Natalia Timofeewa

Guide Cultural History

A historian by training and guide by passion, Natalia brings together a love of history, culture and exploration. With experience living and working in remote environments, she enjoys sharing the stories, traditions and landscapes of the places she visits. Curious and passionate, Natalia is dedicated to helping guests discover each destination from both a historical and local perspective. 

What guests remember most

Insights from Asia-Pacific guest feedback

Explore more

35 mentions

Service, Staff & Crew

Guest comments repeatedly reflect the care behind each journey, with warmth, attentiveness, and professionalism among the strongest parts of the experience.

22 mentions

Snorkeling, Zodiac Trips, and Wildlife

Across guest comments, the strongest impressions often come from time spent at sea level: close marine encounters, whale shark sightings, and the sense of discovery that comes from exploring by Zodiac.

19 mentions

Excursions, Expeditions & Tours

Guests often described shore experience as a highlight, especially cultural encounters and guided visits.

19 mentions

Culture, Village Life, and Local Encounters

Time spent in remote communities and the warmth of the people met ashore were repeatedly mentioned in the feedback.

18 mentions

Ship, Cabins, and Onboard Comfort

Guests mentioned well-designed spaces and thoughtful amenities as well as the comfort of their private accommodation.

15 mentions

Remote Islands and Unique Destinations

Guests often highlighted the sense of reaching places far beyond the usual cruise routes.

14 mentions

Food, Meals & Beverages

The onboard culinary experience was mentioned as one of the memorable pleasures of the journey.

14 mentions

Lectures, Speakers, and Expertise

Guests often valued the deeper understanding that came from thoughtful interpretation throughout the journey.

Endless ways to spend your day

There’s no such thing as a typical day with Swan Hellenic. We bring you endless possibilities to tailor every moment to your interests and mood, so you’ll always have your dream day on board.

SH Minerva at a Glance

Boutique Cruising

SH Minerva’s bespoke interiors are spacious and tasteful, with plush furnishing, and floor-to-ceiling windows that give you unobstructed views of some of the world’s most incredible landscapes.

Culinary Excellence

Every evening, the Swan Restaurant transforms into a gourmet venue serving the sublime creations of Michelin star award-winning consultant chefs.

Sauna & Spa

The sauna is perfect for meditative moments after onshore activities or following the wide choice of wellness treatments. The many options here include Balinese spa, beauty and wellness treatments, ranging from hot stone and bamboo massages to pampering body care.

Gym

State of the art gym with cardio machines, stretch bands & free weights. We will also be offering a range of instructor-led classes, along with personal trainers for everything from resistance training and Pilates to yoga and meditation.

Pool & Jacuzzi

All is designed to make the most of the unparalleled views, from our outdoor hot tubs with stunning views to the extensive pool deck with stellar views of the glistening sea.

Onboard Discoveries

Immerse yourself in the nature, history and culture of every locale you visit on your cruise with special briefings, lectures and presentations. Our experienced expedition guides are sure to make your time on board both fascinating and informative.

Personal Service

Swan Hellenic is all about personal service and genuine hospitality. Our warm and welcoming crew aim to please, and nothing more than to give you the best experience possible.

Your Home Away from Home

Relax in the understated elegance of your stateroom or suite. A sophisticated blend of muted tones, natural textures and intuitive technology, the Scandi-inspired design seamlessly blends the natural world with exceptional comforts.