Japan completely surprised me.
I was lucky enough to experience Japan with Heritage Expeditions, and it was one of the most unique ways I have ever travelled through a country.
Rather than following a traditional Japan rail itinerary, we explored by small-ship expedition cruise — accessing tiny ports, remote villages, national parks and spectacular places that larger ships simply cannot reach.
One of the things I loved most was arriving at places before the crowds.
In Hiroshima, we were among the first visitors of the day. No long queues, no rushing — just the opportunity to experience this important destination before it became busy.
We travelled by Zodiac, hiked through beautiful landscapes and discovered a side of Japan I hadn’t expected.
At one point, we simply decided to take a detour and hike to a waterfall. It turned out to be one of those unexpected travel moments that you remember forever.
Our journey included Kanazawa and mountain villages, the UNESCO World Heritage areas of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama, and Naoshima — Japan’s famous Art Island.
We explored Fukuoka and visited the extraordinary Akiyoshido Cave, one of the most memorable natural wonders of the entire trip.
This was Japan beyond temples and cities.
It was adventure, nature, culture, food and incredible landscapes.
This is what I love about luxury expedition cruising.
You can spend your day hiking, exploring by Zodiac or discovering a remote village, then return to your ship, your suite and a fabulous meal.
Unpack once. Explore every day.
Heritage Expeditions combines the adventure of expedition travel with spacious accommodation, exceptional food and an experienced expedition team.
For me, combining a little time travelling by train and exploring Japan independently before or after the cruise was perfect.
You get the iconic Japan experience — and then discover a completely different side of the country by sea.
Remote Japan. National parks. UNESCO World Heritage sites. Zodiac adventures. Incredible food. Art islands. Mountain villages.
If you are looking for a unique Japan holiday, a Japan adventure itinerary or a small-ship Japan cruise, this is a completely different way to experience one of the world’s most fascinating destinations.
See Japan differently.
Holly Chapman | Personal Travel Manager
Luxury travel, expedition cruising and unforgettable journeys.
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