Japan Expeditions

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Samurai, shrines & surprising wildness

Japan is imbued with an allure that has inspired for centuries. Now for the first time ever we’re venturing to this fascinating region—on two new adventurous itineraries. Roam shores brimming with temples, teahouses, and ancient traditions; discover a seldom-seen wild side on subtropical islands where azure waters meet verdant forests; plus, get a taste of Taiwan and Korea too. First impressions are everything—join us aboard National Geographic Resolution on these pioneering inaugural itineraries.

NOTE: For expeditions departing April 2024 onward, Day 1 of our itineraries will no longer reflect “departure from the U.S.” and will reflect “arrival to the city” where your expedition begins. Durations of expeditions will remain unchanged. More details.

Alaska

Japan

New and Noteworthy

Asia

New A Journey from Nome to Tokyo: Ring of Fire to Ainu Culture

Duration

20 days

Aug

From

$30,853

Prices are per person

Highlights

Alaska

Japan

New and Noteworthy

Asia

New A Journey from Nome to Tokyo: Ring of Fire to Ainu Culture

Duration

20 days

Aug

From

$30,853

Top Highlights

Watch for a profusion of rare wildlife in Alaska’s Pribilof and Aleutian Islands: from whiskered auklets and northern fur seals to Steller’s sea eagles and brown bears
Search for the sacred red-crowned crane on a visit to the wetlands of Kushiro in Hokkaido
Learn about the culture of Hokkaido’s indigenous Ainu people on visits to a village and a living history museum

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Special Offers

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Japan

Asia

New Coastal Japan: Imperial Dynasties and Modern Culture

Duration

15 days

Sep

From

$28,057

Prices are per person

Highlights

Japan

Asia

New Coastal Japan: Imperial Dynasties and Modern Culture

Duration

15 days

Sep

From

$28,057

Top Highlights

Delve into the history of the samurai and their feudal lords while visiting castles and samurai districts in Kanazawa, Matsue, and Uwajima
Explore the cultural legacy of Korea’s Silla Dynasty among the ancient ruins of Gyeongju, a UNESCO World Heritage site
Get inspired on the art-filled island of Naoshima, and visit museums and studios dedicated to artists and traditional handicrafts in Matsue and Takamatsu

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Special Offers

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Vietnam & Cambodia aboard The Jahan

Special Ships

Asia

Vietnam and Cambodia: Along The Mekong River, including Angkor and Saigon

Duration

13 days

Jan
Feb

From

$14,789

Prices are per person

Highlights

Vietnam & Cambodia aboard The Jahan

Special Ships

Asia

Vietnam and Cambodia: Along The Mekong River, including Angkor and Saigon

Duration

13 days

Jan
Feb

From

$14,789

Top Highlights

Sail the Mekong River in comfort on a seven-night journey aboard The Jahan riverboat
Spend two days exploring the legendary religious sites of Angkor in the company of our experts and local guides
Visit communities and learn the ways of life along the Mekong River, including subsistence fishing and small industries

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Special Offers

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Expedition Highlights

Contrast the brightly lit metropolis of Tokyo with the narrow, winding streets of Kanazawa’s well-preserved samurai districts. Discover fascinating tales of feudal lords while visiting their castles, shrines, and gardens. And see firsthand how the Japanese have elevated everyday rituals—tea, sake, kimonos, sushi, floral arranging—into spectacular art forms. Only 400 of Japan’s nearly 7,000 islands are inhabited. Our explorations also take us beyond the populous borders of Honshu into wilder realms. Or snorkel through crystal waters that are home to sea turtles, manta rays, and the elusive Okinawa dugong. In Taiwan’s Yehliu Geopark, witness incredible hoodoo spires.

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Life On Board

It is a privilege to visit Japan, a richly diverse and culturally fascinating geography. And to the privilege of cruising these islands, National Geographic Resolution adds the luxury of comfort—a quality of shipboard life and a philosophy of wellness designed to relax and revitalize body, mind, and spirit.

Expedition Spotlight: Japan, A Travel Photographer's Paradise

In this episode of Expedition Spotlight, Certified Photo Instructor and Naturalist David Cothran shares the inspired photo ops that abound in this beautiful island nation and how he helps guests realize their vision of Japan through composition, light, and storytelling.

Exploring Japan by Sea: From Matsue to Okinawa & Beyond

From the earliest explorers to Shōgun fans, and beyond, Western travelers have long known that the island nation of Japan is best explored by sea.

Why Japan Should Be Your Next Snorkel Destination

Made up of nearly 7,000 islands, Japan may be one of the most underrated snorkel spots around.

The History Behind Japan’s Most Beautiful Landscape Gardens

Japan's daimyo gardens have been open to the public since the end of the feudal era in the 19th century and have been exceedingly well-preserved, transporting travelers not only to a place of calm introspection but back centuries in time.

Ready for the adventure of a lifetime?

1.800.397.3348

1.800.397.3348

Introducing Japan

I came here having no idea what to expect, but it’s just been magical. The food, the scenery, the people, the wildlife, all of it.

Ken C.

Expedition Leader

Explore with a veteran expedition leader—the orchestrator of your experience. Many have advanced degrees and have conducted research or taught for years. They have achieved expedition leader status because they possess the skills, experience, and the depth of knowledge necessary to continually craft the best expedition possible for our guests.

Cultural Specialist

Contemporary art and age-old religion, stunning architecture and iconic shrines, complex history and unique culture. Japan has captivated the imaginations of Westerners for eons. On our Far East itineraries, you’ll travel with passionate experts—a cultural specialist, a historian, and local guides—who will illuminate every facet to give you an intimate perspective on this distant land.

Naturalist

Sail with a team of four naturalists, each of whom is passionate about the geographies they explore (and return to regularly) and who help illuminate each facet through their enthusiasm and knowledge. Choose to spend time with whoever shares your interests in birding, human history, flora and fauna, and so much more.

1.800.397.3348

Joining us on this expedition means signing up for adventure; and the reward for your curiosity is inevitable—the most exhilarating experience of pure discovery possible.

Sven-Olof Lindblad

1.800.397.3348

1.800.397.3348

Daily Expedition Reports

Daily Expedition Reports

9/19/2024

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National Geographic Resolution

South Korea

Last night on National Geographic Resolution , we departed Japan and set sail for South Korea to immerse ourselves in its rich history through visits to four iconic sites. Our journey began at Cheomseongdae Observatory, an ancient astronomical marvel in Gyeongju, where we admired its historical significance and intricate design dating back to the Silla Dynasty. Next, we explored the Daereungwon Ancient Tomb Complex where the large burial mounds of Silla royalty evoked a deep reverence for the past. Walking among these ancient tombs, we learned about royal customs and burial practices from one of Korea’s most powerful dynasties. We then visited the Gyeongju National Museum which deepened our understanding of the region’s history. We discovered priceless artifacts from the Silla period, including golden crowns, sculptures, and relics that bring to life the kingdom’s artistic and cultural achievements. We followed this with a stop for a 21-course traditional Korean lunch, and it was divine. Finally, we headed to Bulguksa Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where we were captivated by its serene beauty, wandering through tranquil courtyards and admiring the intricate stonework and pagodas—stunning examples of Buddhist architecture. This day held many enriching experiences and as we returned to Japan, we left with a deeper appreciation for Korea’s history and cultural treasures.

Daily Expedition Reports

9/19/2024

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National Geographic Orion

Semarang, Indonesia

As the first light of dawn painted the sky with a soft orange glow, the ship docked in the bustling port of Semarang, Indonesia. Our arrival was met with a warm welcome, including a mesmerizing performance of traditional dancers. Among them were performers donning the iconic lion-headed headdress adorned with peacock feathers. Incredibly, these intricate pieces can weigh up to 60 kilograms and are held in place by biting down on a specialized wooden grip. Our journey then took us to Borobudur, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This magnificent Buddhist temple, over 1,300 years old, draws more than 5 million visitors each year. As we wandered through its tiered levels, it was impossible not to reflect on the countless feet that have tread these ancient stones over the centuries. We concluded our day with a delightful feast, accompanied by a captivating traditional Indonesian shadow puppet performance, immersing us further into the rich cultural heritage of this land.

Daily Expedition Reports

9/18/2024

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National Geographic Resolution

Sea of Japan

The Sea of Japan welcomed us during our day at sea with sun and flying fish. It was finally time to catch up with some presentations about the history and geology of this region. Following, the hotel team prepared an amazing BBQ lunch on deck eight, and the expedition team secretly organized an after-lunch swim! We dropped the Zodiacs, and in the middle of nowhere we swam in the warm, blue waters of Japan. Tomorrow we will arrive in Busan, South Korea, but today we finished the day enjoying a magical sunset and a full moon in this beautiful environment.

Daily Expedition Reports

9/18/2024

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National Geographic Orion

Cirebon, Indonesia

Our day in Cirebon began with a brilliant sunrise at 0537, casting a soft glow over the northern coast of Java. Guests joined Wellness Specialist Lani on deck six for morning stretches before enjoying a casual breakfast in the Outdoor Café, savoring the warm breeze and the promise of a clear day ahead. At 0900, Birgit’s insightful presentation on “Islam in Indonesia” in the lounge deepened our understanding of the country’s rich cultural and religious fabric. Following this, Photo Instructor Fiona shared tips and techniques in her “Photo Basics” session, perfectly timed for the afternoon’s adventures ashore. We set out to explore Cirebon at around 1240, greeted by a lively welcome performance at the pier. A short drive through the vibrant streets brought us to Kacirebonan Palace, where traditional music and the colorful spectacle of the Cirebon mask dance captivated everyone. Artisans demonstrated the intricate process of batik textile creation and glass painting, showcasing the city’s renowned craftsmanship. The afternoon offered opportunities to purchase beautifully crafted souvenirs, including the striking Cirebon batik with its vivid colors and Chinese-inspired motifs. As the day drew to a close, we returned aboard by 1730, carrying with us the vibrant spirit of Cirebon and its deep cultural heritage. Sunset brought an end to another unforgettable day in Indonesia.

Daily Expedition Reports

9/17/2024

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National Geographic Orion

Krakatoa

Shireen, our National Geographic Expert, started our day with an inspiring presentation on her career as an ocean storyteller and the role photography plays in conservation. Her stories from the field were both eye-opening and thought provoking, highlighting the power of visual storytelling in raising awareness for ocean conversation. Soon after, we had the incredible opportunity to cruise past Anak Krakatoa, the volcanic island born from the caldera of Krakatoa following its catastrophic 1883 eruption. The sight of the still active volcano rising from the sea was incredible. It was a reminder of the region’s volatile history and the immense forces of nature at play. After lunch we visited the island of Krakatoa itself. Standing on the volcanic sand surrounded by raw beauty and geological significance was a fascinating experience. When we returned to the ship Naturalist Heather gave a captivating talk on the life of turtles. She shared insights into their behavior’s, habitats, and the challenges they face. Her talk deepened our appreciation of these creatures and why it’s important to protect them.

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Epic Histories & Cultural Treasures 2023-25

Multi

Asia

Epic Histories & Cultural Treasures 2023-25

2023-2025 Voyages

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Epic Voyages 2023-26

Multi

Asia

Epic Voyages 2023-26

2023-2026 Voyages

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Expedition Essentials

Multi

Asia

Expedition Essentials

Zodiac Excursions | Kayaking | Hiking | Photography | Undersea Adventures | Cultural Encounters

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