Name: Japan and Korea cruise: Cultural Shores and Northern Landscapes
Brand: Swan Hellenic
SKU: M1226052010

YOUR TRIP

Dreaming of an unforgettable journey through East Asia? Swan Hellenic invites you to discover the "Cultural Shores and Northern Landscapes" of Japan and Korea. This meticulously crafted cruise embarks from historic Hiroshima, guiding you through a captivating tapestry of ancient traditions, modern marvels, and breathtaking natural beauty. Explore the layered cultural landscapes of southern Japan, vibrant South Korea, and the serene northern Honshu, all while experiencing Swan Hellenic's renowned expedition cruising.

This unique itinerary delves into East Asia's most storied regions, offering a harmonious blend of discovery and reflection. Imagine cruising the dramatic Kanmon Strait, a passage rich in history, before exploring the art-filled alleys of Busan and the traditional charm of Japanese towns like Maizuru and Sakata. From the bustling waterways to quiet coastal havens, each stop promises an immersive experience, revealing centuries of maritime tradition and cultural depth. Ideal for discerning travellers seeking both intellectual enrichment and picturesque scenery, this voyage provides unparalleled insights into the heart of East Asia.

Your Swan Hellenic adventure culminates in Otaru, a picturesque port town serving as the gateway to Hokkaido’s wild north. Along the way, you'll discover both sides of the Sea of Japan, from the vibrant energy of Busan to the tranquil beauty of Sakaiminato and Sakata. Experience Japan's cultural north, delving into the historic gold mines and folk traditions of Sado Island, exploring Aomori's artistic heritage, and finally, soaking in Hokkaido's maritime charm. Book your Swan Hellenic cruise today and embark on a voyage that transcends the ordinary, leaving you with memories to last a lifetime.

466bc0a0ad41f69e8e6e24d684a21e65fec7d622

6b2d25ae7f0df25ba219deb5617428e031d41175

Trip Highlights

e9547b07ff38d2f13387157f0bcdc4e14b7e0916

Sail Kanmon Strait, visit Sado Island’s gold mines, and explore Hokkaido’s wild landscapes

55f40994ad4f14e6652db076615de10dc5358f08

Encounter welcoming locals in Busan’s art-filled alleys and traditional communities in Maizuru and Sakata

77c17519b747eeb64b819aa7204069f50b2a9da8

Enjoy expert-led excursions to Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial, serene temples, and artisan workshops in Aomori

Itinerary

cb5faa3bd52138d975b95f51c148e4307701e7e6

Hiroshima is a city of peace and resilience. The Hiroshima Peace Park and Museum, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, vividly portrays the aftermath of the atomic bombing. Designed by Kenzō Tange and inaugurated in 1955, the museum serves as a global symbol of peace, featuring a solemn cenotaph bearing the victims' names and the Flame of Peace, lit in 1964. The Genbaku Dome stands as the sole original structure left at the blast site.

Peace Memorial Park and Museum

Optional

03 h 00 m

The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum conveys to the world the horrors and the inhumane nature of nuclear weapons and spreads the message of “No more Hiroshimas"
Walk through an iconic nuclear war site in the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
See the A-Bomb Dome, a memorial from the ruins of a building damaged by the bomb

Mitaki Temple & Peace Memorial Park and Museum

Optional

04 h 30 m

Discover the Mitaki “three falls” temple, a beautiful traditional Japanese temple complex, tucked away in a forest on the slopes of Mount Mitaki
Visit Peace Memorial Park and Genbaku Dome that memorialize the 1945 attack
See artifacts and read survivor's testimonies in the Peace Memorial Museum

8c1e9869e9184b8e0c802cebd1b7093ff7061c2c

Famous for its fugu (also known as puffer or blowfish), Shimonoseki at the southwestern tip of Honsho, is surrounded on three sides by the ocean. The Japanese delicacy is available at Karato Ichiba fish market. Other attractions include Kozan-ji Buddhist temple, a ‘National Treasure of Japan’ that dates from 1327 and the photogenic 1,780-m-long Tsunoshima Bridge, which connects Tsunoshima island (part of Shimonoseki city) with Honshu.

Karato Fish Market and Moji ko Retro

Included

05 h 00 m

Discover the vibrant Karato Fish Market, renowned for its fresh seafood and lively atmosphere, including a visit to the famous blowfish stalls
Explore the historic Mojiko Retro District, where Meiji-era architecture and foreign trade history come to life
Enjoy stunning views from Hinoyama Observatory and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage at the Kanmon Strait Museum

Chofu Samurai Town

Optional

01 h 50 m

98c0f7bfeb4579342b8a923e30e2c61bf5b69023

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.

985777a1025a51be64285d76df7646bebc5246ce

Busan, South Korea's second city, blends beaches and mountains with boutiques, lively cafes and delicious seafood in food alleys. The 120m-tall Busan Tower offers a sense of the skyscraper cityscape. Six beaches, including Haeundae and Gwangalli, attract visitors year-round. Gamcheon Culture Village, previously a slum, is now a kaleidoscopic haven of art nestled on the coastal mountain foothills, affectionately dubbed the "Machu Picchu of Busan."

Temple & Markets Past and Present in Busan

Included

04 h 00 m

Discover the spiritual heart of Korea at the legendary Beomeosa Temple, a serene sanctuary of ancient treasures
Dive into the vibrant culture of Busan at Jagalchi Market, Korea’s largest and most iconic seafood hub
Wander through the bustling alleys of Gukje Market and experience the charm of Old Busan, where tradition meets variety

Story Of Busan

Included

03 h 50 m

Step back in time and honor the heroes of the Korean War at the poignant UN Memorial Cemetery
Uncover Busan’s rich heritage through ancient relics and cultural treasures at the Busan Museum
Experience the vibrant soul of Old Busan as you explore the bustling alleys of Gukje Market

357b2931bdf919e27af4d0a3f4b73a66a9ddc757

A haven for seafood lovers, manga fans and nature enthusiasts, Sakaiminto’s offerings are fairly eclectic for the seemingly slow-paced port town. Fish markets and world-class seafood restaurants line the streets, offering delights including local delicacy, Matsuba snow crab. You can also feast on Pacific bluefin tuna, Sakaiminto salmon, Natsuki rock oysters, swordtip squid and plenty more. The city was also once home to local hero, Shigeru Mizuki, a celebrated manga comic artist. Visit the Mizuki Shingeru museum for a fascinating insight into his life and the world of manga. Stretch your legs and enjoy a hike up the volcanic Mount Daisen, the highest mountain in the region (1730m). Or you may wish to take a gentler trek though the tranquil and restorative beech and cedar forests whilst connecting with nature and indulging in the Japanese pastime of ‘forest bathing’.

Matsue Castle and Matsue History Museum

Optional

04 h 00 m

Visit one of only twelve original Japanese castles still in existence, and one of only five classed as a National Treasure: the Matsue Castle
Embrace the rare opportunity to explore a magnificent piece of samurai history
Observe an Edo exterior and modern interior along with a variety of demonstrations, traditional arts and crafts at the Matsue History Museum

Izumo Grand Shrine

Optional

07 h 30 m

Marvel at one of Japan's most important shrines, Izumo Taisha and admire the bronze torii gate
Listen at the lecture at the Shimane Museum of Ancient Izumo
Taste a traditional lunch at the local Japanese restaurant

Adachi Museum of Art and Yushi-en Japanese Garden

Included

04 h 20 m

Visit Adachi Museum of Art, housing an impressive collection dating from 1912 to the present
Walk Yushi-en Gardens, featuring an array of landscape elements, from gardens to waterfalls, streams and rock gardens, and the main attraction: the collection of Japanese peony flowers
Discover the most extensive collection of Taikan Yokoyama works in the world

1af26bb47d5205c67ce992bfe780150a24f4b430

The port city of Maizuru in south-central Japan served as a major naval base and post-WWII repatriation port, where over 660,000 Japanese returned home - this history is remembered at the poignant Maizuru Repatriation Memorial Museum. Its scenic harbour, framed by forested hills, is overlooked by Goro Sky Tower atop Mt. Gorogatake. Brick Park evokes the city’s industrial past with Meiji-era warehouses housing the unique World Brick Museum.

5c6200edd878ce94f089798ca10751b679ee7527

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.

704f07660957d76bb06b9c8aec8d54f9ce0cc628

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.

36d91d9705de57759eb86567b77a4a1de5e1fb3b

Aomori, Honshu’s northernmost prefecture, is home to some of Japan’s most significant Jomon-era archaeological sites, including the UNESCO-listed Sannai Maruyama, a vast and well-preserved settlement with reconstructed dwellings. Highlights also include Seiryu-ji Temple, with its five-story cypress pagoda and Japan’s largest seated bronze Buddha, and the Nebuta Warasse Museum, which celebrates Nebuta Festival’s illuminated floats.

734e6062e752395eacb77d0efda878ba97aeab70

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.

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.

Choose

YOUR SUITE TYPE

View mode

Number of Guests:

31500c211c15e1636cebcce2c41cc15340ecad1d

1ccb69d99c28fdcd403b3e6a107e565f12343f48

Oceanview D4

20 m²

Oceanview Staterooms measure 20m2 (215ft2) and can accommodate two guests. They feature two single beds or a double bed, bedroom with living room area, a flame-effect fireplace and a luxurious bathroom.

95a952dc5770e99d787b7c1eacf2e7cb54b66268

6f97afdd59c9a3ea242c1130b93107ff0ff12efd

Oceanview M4

20 m²

6f25c6b69aa3d3a483e9e17569218a961301f99b

0ae9fb2d079eb3e8346919addd40954c91e6412c

Balcony D5

25 m²

Balcony Staterooms measure 25m2 (269ft2) – including a 5m2 (54ft2) private balcony – and can accommodate two or three guests. They feature two single beds or a double bed, bedroom with living room area, a flame-effect fireplace and a luxurious bathroom.

40f37bc2c2481573356842daf8d0a220398f3e98

a5d4534b9eaac0a0b4139e270c341e036cebd315

Balcony M5

25 m²

1dfdfcdaccfbb450a704c7a766daffe9e9efa824

11b956a9cf635a179b12e5f909c1b9da9ccaadce

Balcony D6

25 m²

311fe3fd32330721adfd89bd6a51661356a9cbbd

07c79d942ace0f8a6d69e649430720525e6a9e3b

Suite

40 m²

Suites feature a king size bed, and have a separate living room, with a flame-effect fireplace. There’s also a luxurious ensuite bathroom – with separate bath tub and walk-in shower – and a 10m2 (108ft2) private balcony.

66dad5733a7e4aad3996467ac62632c29638f0b8

f70f8e942dd1cdc8cdf236e9ec924aa4fcdca1a9

Premium Suite

47 m²

Premium Suites have a king size bed, separate living room, and flame-effect fireplace. There’s also a luxurious ensuite bathroom – with separate bath tub and shower – walk-in wardrobe, and a 12m2 (129ft2) private balcony.