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

Cruise Only

What`s included

Perfect for travellers who are independent and happy doing their own thing before and after their cruise.

Solo travelers: book via enquiries@swanhellenic.com

Price From

$ 10,375

Per Person

Lowest fare available

book your cruise

What’s INCLUDED:

Your selected stateroom;
All meals onboard;
Complimentary hot & cold beverages, beer, wine & spirits any time throughout your cruise;
24-hour room service;
Lecture programs by expedition team and guest speakers;
One selected shore excursion per port of call;
All expedition landings;
Entry level WI-FI (upgraded packages available);
Gym, sauna, pool;
24/7 self service laundry;
Waterproof backpack and refillable water bottle, yours to keep;
In polar regions: branded parka, yours to keep and use of rubber boot;
Memory Package;
Onboard gratuities & port taxes.

The following services are not included:

Charter flights to the port of embarkation/ disembarkation (Longyearbyen, Ushuaia, Kangerlussuaq, Nuuk);
Group return transfers from airport to cruise port and to the hotel (where included);
One night pre-cruise accommodation with breakfast in a 4/5-star hotel (exemptions apply).

Wave 2026 - Cruise Only

What`s included

The perfect way to start your next journey with added value.

Elevated Expeditions bring upgraded Wi-Fi and onboard credit to elevate every step of your voyage.

Solo travelers: book via enquiries@swanhellenic.com

Price From

$ 8,925

Per Person

Lowest fare available

book your cruise

What’s INCLUDED:

Discounted rate
Complimentary 300$ On Board Credit on Ocean View and Balcony staterooms, 500$ on Suites
Complimentary Gold Wi-fi on Ocean View and Balcony staterooms, Platinum Wi-fi on Suites
Your selected stateroom;
All meals onboard;
Complimentary hot & cold beverages, beer, wine & spirits any time throughout your cruise;
24-hour room service;
Lecture programs by expedition team and guest speakers;
One selected shore excursion per port of call;
All expedition landings;
Entry level WI-FI (upgraded packages available);
Gym, sauna, pool;
24/7 self service laundry;
Waterproof backpack and refillable water bottle, yours to keep;
In polar regions: branded parka, yours to keep and use of rubber boot;
Memory Package;
Onboard gratuities & port taxes.

The following services are not included:

Charter flights to the port of embarkation/ disembarkation (Longyearbyen, Ushuaia, Kangerlussuaq, Nuuk);
Group return transfers from airport to cruise port and to the hotel (where included);
One night pre-cruise accommodation with breakfast in a 4/5-star hotel (exemptions apply).

FURTHER INFORMATION ON PRICING

Please read these travel conditions carefully before booking your package tour, because you accept them as binding with your booking.
Learn more here

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.

Trip Highlights

Sail Kanmon Strait and explore Hokkaido’s wild landscapes

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

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

Itinerary

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.

Sacred Island of Miyajima

Included

04 h 15 m

Hiroshima and Miyajima Full day with Japanese Lunch

Optional

07 h 45 m

Peace Memorial Park and Museum

Optional

03 h 30 m

Chofu Samurai Town

Optional

03 h 30 m

Views of Kanmon Strait and Mojiko Retro

Included

04 h 00 m

Akiyoshidai Hiking and Akiyoshido Cave

Optional

04 h 30 m

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.

UNESCO Treasures of Gyeongju

Optional

07 h 30 m

Gamcheon Cultural Village and Local Life

Optional

04 h 00 m

Story Of Busan

Included

03 h 50 m

Adachi Museum of Art and Yushi-en Japanese Garden

Included

04 h 30 m

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.

Kyoto Arashiyama with Buddhist Lunch

Included

06 h 55 m

Amanohashidate with Lunch

Optional

06 h 00 m

History of Maizuru

Optional

03 h 00 m

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.

Sakata and Kitamae Merchants

Optional

03 h 15 m

Mt. Haguro Pilgrimage - 600 Steps

Included

03 h 30 m

Mt. Haguro Pilgrimage - 2,446 Steps

Included

04 h 00 m

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.

Cultures of Aomori

Included

03 h 30 m

Castle City of Hirosaki

Optional

05 h 10 m

Aomori City Walking

Optional

04 h 30 m

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:

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.

Oceanview M4

20 m²

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.

Balcony M5

25 m²

Balcony D6

25 m²

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.

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.

From

—

per person

Add to waiting list