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All Cruises to Japan

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Small ship cruises through Japan's beautiful coastal towns and villages are the perfect way to experience the country's stunning natural scenery and rich cultural heritage. From Hagi, famous for its samurai culture and ancient castles, to Otaru, known for its charming canals and picturesque snowy winters, each port of call offers something unique and memorable. You can also enjoy the natural beauty of Kanazawa and Matsue on a hiking excursion through rugged mountain scenery, explore ancient archaeological sites and experience traditional Japanese culture firsthand. Our top 23 Japan cruises start from $1,750 to $110,890 for cruises of 6 to 19 daysContact one of Adventure Life's Japan cruise specialists for help planning a seamless trip.
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    • Japan
Matsue Castle
from $8,495
EXPLORE

Sacred Japan and South Korea: A Voyage from Osaka to Niigata to Tokyo, Including South Korea

Osaka - Tokyo - 11 Day Itinerary aboard Heritage Adventurer
  • Explore Kanazawa's rich arts scene
  • Visit Kanazawa's open air market
  • Try traditional pottery making
  • Visit Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
Starts / Ends
Osaka / Tokyo
Activity Level
Variable
Join this 11-day Sacred Japan and South Korea cruise from Osaka to Tokyo aboard Heritage Adventurer. Discover the historic castle town of Matsue, the ancient town of Hagi, the sacred Miyajima, historic Hiroshima, and more. Explore Japan's ancient heritage and traditional culture in contrast with the world's most advanced technological civilization.
Cruise Details
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Sunset over Nagasaki
from $8,590
EXPLORE

The Best of Japan

Osaka - Busan - 9 Day Itinerary aboard Le Soleal
  • Explore Osaka's vibrant districts
  • Stroll Tamano's coastal charm
  • Marvel at Miyajima's Torii
  • Visit Hiroshima's Peace Memorial
Starts / Ends
Osaka / Busan
Activity Level
Variable
Embark on a 9-day cruise aboard Le Soleal, exploring Japan’s rich heritage and natural wonders. Visit iconic sites like Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial, Miyajima’s Itsukushima Shrine, and Kagoshima’s historic Chiran.
Cruise Details
0
from $8,395
EXPLORE

Eternally Sacred Japan & South Korea: Japan Voyage Between Tokyo and Osaka, incl. South Korea

Tokyo - Osaka - 11 Day Itinerary aboard Heritage Adventurer
  • Explore Kanazawa's rich arts scene
  • Visit Kanazawa's open air market
  • Try traditional pottery making
  • Visit Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
Starts / Ends
Osaka / Tokyo
Activity Level
Variable
Join this 11-day Eternally Sacred Japan & South Korea cruise from Tokyo to Osaka aboard Heritage Adventurer. Discover the historic castle town of Matsue, the ancient town of Hagi, the sacred Miyajima, historic Hiroshima, & more. Learn Japan's ancient heritage & traditional culture in contrast with the world's most advanced technological civilization.
Cruise Details
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A young woman walks through a field of flowers
from $10,000
EXPLORE

The Best of Japan

Maizuru to Osaka - 9 Day Itinerary aboard Le Soleal
  • Explore the famous Korakuen Gardens
  • Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial
  • See Kagoshima & Sakurajima Volcano
  • Honor the events at Nagasaki
  • Discover medieval Japan
Starts / Ends
Maizuru / Osaka
Activity Level
Variable
Le Soleal takes you on a 9-day Japan cruise from Maizuru to Osaka to experience the highlights of Japanese cultures, as you make stops in Sakaiminato, Busan (South Korea), Nagasaki, Hiroshima, Okayama, and witness the breathtaking natural beauty and fascinating ancient cultures within a modern, progressive country.
Cruise Details
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Cherry blossoms frame Osaka castle
from $8,950
EXPLORE

Secular Treasures in the Land of the Rising Sun

Osaka - Kobe - 8 Day Itinerary aboard Le Soleal
  • Explore Hiroshima's Peace Memorial
  • Wander through Hagi's streets
  • Discover Busan's ancient districts
  • Delight in Kochi's lush landscapes
Starts / Ends
Osaka / Kobe
Activity Level
Variable
Embark on an 8-day cruise aboard Le Soléal, uncovering Japan's secular treasures. In Osaka, board a cruise exploring samurai history and geisha culture. Visit Hiroshima's Peace Memorial, Miyajima's Itsukushima Shrine, and Hagi's samurai legacy. Discover Busan's contrasts before indulging in Kochi's natural and cultural marvels.
Cruise Details
0
from $8,815
EXPLORE

Discover the Islands of Japan: A 12-day Voyage of Japan Between Tokyo & Osaka, Including South Korea

Tokyo - Osaka - 12 Day Itinerary aboard Heritage Adventurer
  • Experience Japan
  • Cruise travel to Matsue, Hagi
  • Visit iconic gardens in Japan
  • Visit Fukuoka and Dazaifu
  • Visit the 'Museum Without Walls'
Starts / Ends
Tokyo / Osaka
Activity Level
Variable
Discover hidden gems on a 12-day voyage between Tokyo & Osaka aboard Heritage Adventurer. Explore Matsue, Hagi, and Yakushima Island. Visit Uwajima's pearl farms, iconic gardens like Kenroku-en, and delve into Nagasaki's WWII history. Explore Fukuoka and discover South Korea's Gyeongju and Haeinsa Temple.
Cruise Details
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Cherry blossoms and Mount Fuji
from $10,695
EXPLORE

Through the Heart of Japan

Tokyo to Fukuoka - 15 Day Itinerary aboard Coral Geographer
  • Tokyo embarkation and departure
  • See Shimizu Island's scenic beauty
  • Discover Shingu and Daimon-Zaka
  • Osaka's vibrant food scene
  • Tokushima's Awa Odori Festival
  • Visit Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
Starts / Ends
Tokyo / Tokyo
Activities
Hiking
Activity Level
Variable
Experience the dynamic landscape of Japan on a 15-day journey aboard the Coral Geographer, exploring vibrant cities, quiet coastal villages, and cultural landmarks from Tokyo to Fukuoka. Highlights include Shimizu, Shingu's Shinto shrines, Osaka, Kyoto, Tokushima, Shodoshima, Karatsu, Jeju Island's lava tubes in South Korea, and the Goto Islands.
Cruise Details
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Sunset over Nagasaki
from $28,057
EXPLORE

Coastal Japan: Imperial Dynasties and Modern Culture

16 Day Itinerary aboard National Geographic Resolution
  • Enjoy castles and samurai district
  • Discover ancient ruins of Gyeongju
  • Visit Matsue's art museum
  • See Naoshima, the art-filled island
  • Tour three Japanese gardens
Starts / Ends
Osaka / Kyoto
Activity Level
Variable
Experience a 16-day expedition aboard the National Geographic Resolution, exploring Japan and South Korea's cultural and historic sites. Visit Himeji Castle, Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Park, Naoshima's art attractions, and Gyeongju's ancient temples. Discover samurai heritage in Matsue, scenic gardens, and traditional villages.
Cruise Details
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Hiroshima Peace Memorial or Atomic Bomb Dome
from $9,410
EXPLORE

Treasures of Japan by Sea – with Smithsonian Journeys

9 Day Itinerary aboard Le Soleal
  • Visit Hiroshima Peace Memorial
  • Relax in Beppu hot spring area
  • Enjoy Busan coastal city views
  • Experience Hagi samurai history sit
Starts / Ends
Osaka / Busan
Activity Level
Variable
Explore Japan and South Korea’s highlights on a 9-day cruise aboard Le Soleal. Visit iconic sites like Miyajima’s Torii Gate, Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial, and Beppu’s hot springs. Walk Hagi's samurai streets and enjoy the art in Sakaiminato. Discover Busan’s temples and UNESCO sites with expert-led talks and enriching excursions.
Cruise Details
0
Sunset over Nagasaki
from $8,815
EXPLORE

Discover the Islands of Japan:An 11-day Voyage of Japan Between Tokyo & Osaka, Including South Korea

Tokyo to Osaka - 11 Day Itinerary aboard Heritage Adventurer
  • Explore vibrant Tokyo highlights
  • Visit Matsue Castle
  • Explore Busan's streets and temple
  • Walk among ancient cedar trees
  • Study pearl cultivation in Uwajima
Starts / Ends
Tokyo / Osaka
Activities
Local Market Visits, Archaeological Site Visits, Village Visits
Activity Level
Variable
Embark on an 11-day cruise through Japan and South Korea aboard the Heritage Adventurer and discover historic sites, UNESCO landmarks, bustling markets, and serene gardens. Travel via bullet train, explore charming villages, visit famous cities like Tokyo, Kanazawa, and Busan, and delve into natural wonders such as Yakushima Island.
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Japanese tea ceremony
from $9,300
EXPLORE

Japan, Natural Archipelago and Secular Heritage

Osaka - Kagoshima - 9 Day Itinerary aboard Le Jacques Cartier
  • Explore Tomonoura's landscapes
  • Discover Moji's Meiji-era streets
  • Unveil Busan's contrasting charms
  • Experience Nagasaki's ambiance
Starts / Ends
Osaka / Kagoshima
Activity Level
Variable
Embark on a 9-day cruise aboard Le Jacques Cartier to explore Japan's Natural Archipelago and Secular Heritage. From serene Tomonoura to historic Moji and vibrant Busan, experience the charm of Nagasaki and the Christian refuge of Amakusa. Marvel at ancient Koshikijima Islands before concluding in bustling Kagoshima.
Cruise Details
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Explore colorful Tokyo
from $48,990
2-for-1
EXPLORE

Japan & South Korea In Depth

Tokyo - Osaka - 18 Day Itinerary aboard Scenic Eclipse II
  • Explore Uno
  • Experience Toba
  • Discover Shimizu
  • Explore Tokyo
Starts / Ends
Tokyo / Osaka
Activity Level
Variable
Discover the rich cultures, traditions, and landscapes of Japan and South Korea on this 18-day aboard the Scenic Eclipse II. Starting in Tokyo and sailing south through the Seto Inland Sea to the east coast of South Korea, this journey offers an unforgettable exploration of history and culture.
Cruise Details
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Osaka's city lights after sunset
from $12,670
EXPLORE

Authentic Japan

Osaka to Busan - 13 Day Itinerary aboard Le Soleal
  • Explore Busan’s cultural treasures
  • Explore Osaka's vibrant cityscape
  • Tour Himeji’s iconic castle
  • View Takamatsu’s famous gardens
Starts / Ends
Osaka / Busan
Activities
Urban Exploration
Activity Level
Variable
Embark on a 13-day cruise across Japan and South Korea aboard Le Soleal, starting in Osaka and ending in Busan. Explore iconic destinations like Himeji Castle, Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Park, and Miyajima's Torii Gate.
Cruise Details
0
Classical Noh dance-drama
from $12,250
EXPLORE

Japan's National Parks, Art and Culture

Honshu, Osaka to Osaka - 16 Day Itinerary aboard Heritage Adventurer
  • Visit Kanazawa's center of the arts
  • See wildlife in Izu Oshima Islands
  • See iconic landmarks of Miyajima
  • Visit Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
Starts / Ends
Osaka / Osaka
Activity Level
Variable
Join this 16-day Japan's National Parks, Art, and Culture expedition cruise from Osaka to Osaka, including South Korea, aboard Heritage Adventurer. An unforgettable circumnavigation of Japan's main island, Honshu, and exploration of its wilderness, arts, culture, and rich history.
Cruise Details
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Cherry blossoms in historic Kyoto
from $15,010
EXPLORE

Japanese Ancestral Traditions and Legendary Shrines

Osaka - Maizuru - 13 Day Itinerary aboard Le Soleal
  • Discover Himeji’s UNESCO castle
  • Sail to Kyushu to explore Toba
  • Explore the Miyajima Island
  • Experience the contrasts of Busan
Starts / Ends
Osaka / Maizuru
Activity Level
Variable
Explore Japanese ancestral traditions and legendary shrines on a 13-day cruise aboard Le Soleal. Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Himeji Castle and Itsukushima Shrine. Traverse Kyushu's landscapes, discover South Korea's Busan and explore historic towns like Hagi and Izumo. Conclude amidst Tottori's sand dunes before disembarking in Maizuru.
Cruise Details
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Sunset over Nagasaki
from $13,400
EXPLORE

Authentic Japan

Busan to Osaka - 13 Day Itinerary aboard Le Soleal
  • Explore Busan’s cultural treasures
  • Visit Nagasaki’s heritage landmarks
  • Tour Himeji’s iconic castle
  • View Takamatsu’s famous gardens
Starts / Ends
Busan / Osaka
Activity Level
Variable
Embark on a 13-day Japan cruise aboard Le Soleal and experience authentic Japanese traditions and local specialties. Explore cultural landmarks, historical castles, serene gardens, and sacred sites.
Cruise Details
0
A woman admires the spring cherry blossoms, dressed in a kimono
from $14,200
EXPLORE

Island Wonders & the Soul of Ancestral Japan

Naha, Okinawa - Kobe - 14 Day Itinerary aboard Le Jacques Cartier
  • Visit Okinawa & Subtropical Islands
  • Visit UNESCO-listed Yakushima
  • Explore Koshikijima Islands
  • Discover Amakusa’s History
  • Discover Sacred Iki Island
  • Jeju Island and the Seto Inland Sea
Starts / Ends
Naha / Kobe
Activities
Wildlife Viewing, Snorkeling
Activity Level
Variable
Embark on a 14-day cruise aboard Le Jacques Cartier, starting in Okinawa and exploring islands like Zamami and Kikaijima, known for marine life. Visit Yakushima, a UNESCO site, and the Koshikijima Islands. Discover Amakusa’s history, Iki’s Shinto shrines, and Jeju's Hallasan volcano. Continue through the Seto Inland Sea, concluding in Kobe.
Cruise Details
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Experience the unique architecture of Asia.
from $9,300
EXPLORE

Japan, Natural Archipelago and Secular Heritage

Kagoshima - Osaka - 9 Day Itinerary aboard Le Jacques Cartier
  • Explore cliffs and rock formations
  • Succumb to the charms of Amakusa
  • Discover the vibrant city, Busan
  • Unveil Moji's captivating panoramas
Starts / Ends
Kagoshima / Osaka
Activity Level
Variable
Explore a 9-day cruise aboard Le Jacques Cartier through Japan's Natural Archipelago and Secular Heritage journey. Sail from Kagoshima to Kyushu's western gems and the Koshikijima Islands' ancient cliffs. Visit Amakusa and Goto Islands, then discover Busan's charms in South Korea. Experience Moji's Meiji-era charm and end in Osaka's bustling port.
Cruise Details
0
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