Tropical Expedition 
Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3
19 m²
2
Expedition in the Seto Inland Sea
Kobe - Fukuoka
Dates:
30/03/2024
to
06/04/2024
Other available dates
days
nights on board
With this itinerary, PONANT is taking you on a cruise from Kobe to Fukuoka. This 8-day circuit will allow you to discover the jewels to be found in the picturesque towns and cities of the Seto Inland Sea. The oldest sea route in Japan, a strategic hub during Antiquity, it was also the theatre of many battles and historic events that shaped its myth and grandeur over time with the ebb and flow of the tides.
Le Jacques-Cartier will set sail from Kobe, a charming harbour city nestling between sea and mountains, and make its way to the island of Inujima. A flourishing centre of the mining industry more than a century ago, particularly for copper extraction, this small 54-hectare island is now an essential destination for contemporary art enthusiasts. It is notably home to the Seirensho Art Museum, designed around the remaining blackened walls of a former copper refinery.
Aboard one of our zodiac inflatables, you will then head to Tomonoura, known for its gentle way of life and its craggy landscapes, which inspired the artist Hayao Miyazaki for the animated film Ponyo. Then, you will visit Onomichi, a charming coastal town surrounded by green hills and home to a large number of temples and emblematic shrines, including the Senkō-ji, Saikoku-ji, and Jōdo-ji temples.
After calling at Shimokamagari, a traditional fishing village, the jagged coastlines of the captivating Miyajima Island, also known as Itsukushima, come into view, and the vermillion Torii of the emblematic Shinto Shrine of Itsukushima, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, unfolds before you in a lush forest setting. Time here seems stuck in the feudal era: the frenetic energy and modernity of the large Japanese metropolises make way for striking serenity and tranquillity, and hundreds of deer wander between its spiritual and architectural treasures.
Then, Le Jacques-Cartier will continue its crossing of the Seto Inland Sea to drop anchor on the island of Honshu, in Hagi. The home of the samurai and of Hagi ware will win you over with its narrow streets, traditional houses, and the former residences of the Japanese warriors from this feudal town, of which the mythical Shizuki Castle, erected in the 17th century, emerges as a symbol.
Your ship will then take you to Yeosu, in South Korea. Thrust into the international limelight for hosting the Marine Expo in 2012, the coastal city will captivate you with its traditional character, evident also in its fish market.
Your cruise will end in Fukuoka, your disembarkation port.
Ref : EX300324
Your itinerary
A cruise to discover the enchanting cities of the Seton Inland Sea. Outings and shore visits in zodiac inflatables with a team of experienced naturalist guides. Varied landscapes along the Seto Inland Sea,...
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Your trip in detail
Choose your stateroom
Choose your stateroom
Complete your trip
Complete your trip
Additional services
For more peace of mind, PONANT selects stays and flights then takes care of your transfers for your trip as well as shore visits before and after the cruise.
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*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.
Services provided
- 24-hour room service
- Inclusive Wifi internet access (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- Dyptique Paris top-of-the-line bath products
- Minibar
- Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
- Electronic safe
- Direct line telephone
- Bose Bluetooth speaker
- Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
- 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
- Two ADA staterooms
Select your stateroom category
Expedition programmes include activities such as zodiac outings and landings (sometimes with "wet landings"), moderate walks to more active hikes, all accompanied by your expedition team of naturalist guides.
Ports of call, visited sites, outings and landings will depend on weather conditions, winds and the state of the sea. These can force a change of plans at any time. The Captain and the Expedition Leader may at any time cancel or stop any activity, or even modify the itinerary. The final itinerary will be confirmed by the Captain, who will take into account the touristic quality of the sites and above all, the safety of the passengers. His decision will be based on advice from experts and authorities.
Travelling to isolated regions is an exhilarating experience. In remote areas, please remember that you are far from modern hospitals with full medical facilities, thus evacuation is extremely expensive. Without adequate medical coverage, all expenses will have to be immediately paid with your personal funds. We urge you to subscribe to full coverage insurance, choose your insurance company very carefully, be extremely vigilant and ensure your insurance is fully comprehensive, especially if you are insured by your credit card. PONANT offers an insurance contract with extensive guarantees, please contact us for more information.
Clothing tips:
- Cotton comfortable and light-weight shorts/bermuda shorts
- Light weight long trousers
- Long-sleeved breathable SPF50+ shirts
- Cotton short sleeved T-shirt
- Aquatic UV long-sleeved T-shirt for sun protection during snorkeling or swimming
- Aquatic non-slip sandals
- Windproof, waterproof and breathable outer layer
- Broad brimmed anti-UV hat with strap and veil to protect the neck
- Comfortable walking shoes
Accessories:
- Highly protective sunglasses.
- Sunscreen and after-sun with high SPF index & insect repellent
- Binoculars (strongly recommended for wildlife viewing).
- Small waterproof backpack (to protect your camera from water).
- Camelbak (backpack with water pockets)
- Walking poles (highly recommended).
Please note:
During your visits to some local communities, all guests will be required to dress respectfully. Ladies must have their shoulders and thighs covered. Gentlemen should have their shoulders covered also.
Ideal clothes for life on board:
During the days spent on board, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes or casual outfits. The entire ship is air-conditioned, so a light sweater, a light jacket or a shawl may be necessary. When moving about in the public areas of the ship and the decks, light but comfortable shoes are recommended.
Informal evening:
In the evening, you are advised to wear smart-casual attire, especially when dining in our restaurants where wearing shorts and tee-shirts is not allowed.
For women:
- Simple dress
- Skirt or trousers
- Blouse
- Polo
For men:
- Pleated trousers or chinos
- Sports jacket
- Shirt
- Polo
Officer’s evening:
For all cruises longer than 8 nights, an Officer’s Evening with a white dress code may be organized. Therefore, we encourage you to bring a stylish white outfit for the occasion (otherwise black and white).
Gala evening:
During the cruise, two gala evenings will be organised on board. Thus, we recommend that you bring one or two formal outfits.
For women:
- Cocktail attire
- Evening dress (if you wish to)
For men:
- Dark suit
- Tie recommended, possibly bow tie (if you wish to)
SHOP:
A small shop is available on board offering a wide range of outfits, jewellery, leather goods and many accessories.
A laundry service (washing/ironing) is available on board, but unfortunately there are no dry cleaning services. For safety reasons, your cabin is not equipped with an iron.
TECHNICAL OUTFITS:
- Shorts / bermudas
- Light weight long trousers
- Wind and waterproof light “breathable” outer layer
- Sweater/pullover for the evening
- Short and long sleeved cotton shirts
- Waterproof UV long sleeved T-shirt
- Long sleeved cotton shirt for sun protection during zodiac excursions and excursions ashore
- Ankle canvas shoes (which dry quickly and protect ankles)
- Aquatic shoes for wet landings on shore
ACCESSORIES:
- Polarized sunglasses with high UV filter
- Binoculars
- Walking poles
- Small waterproof backpack
- Camelbak (backpack with water pockets)
- Swimsuit (for the Spa on board)
- Gym wear (fitness)
- Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
- Mobile phone charger
- Sun portective hat/cap with strap and veil to protect the neck
HEALTH CARE:
- Sunscreen and after-sun lotion
- Mosquito and insect repellent
- Medications and prescriptions
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
- Casual outfits for the day
- Smarter outfits for dinners
- Elegant outfits for Gala evenings
- White or black and white outfit
PRECAUTIONS:
In your hand luggage, remember to bring any medicines that you need, and possibly a small spare bag of toiletries (in case of delay in the delivery of your baggage by the airline). Remember to always have your travel documents with you in case you need them: hotel vouchers, cruise vouchers, return flight tickets... Never leave them in your hold luggage.
All our cabins have a safe. We recommend not to go ashore with valuable jewellery.
PONANT activities
Highlights
- A cruise to discover the enchanting cities of the Seton Inland Sea.
- Outings and shore visits in zodiac inflatables with a team of experienced naturalist guides.
- Varied landscapes along the Seto Inland Sea, offering stunning contrasts between land and sea.
- Enjoy a local cuisine rich in seafood and taste local saké.
- Discover the cultural richness of Japan’s oldest sea route, dating back to the 7th century.
- Discover the history, cultures, and the incredible diversity of the flora and fauna thanks to our team of naturalist guides with expertise in this destination.
Ports of Call & Excursions
30 March 2024 - Kobe
Embarkation 30/03/2024 from 16:00 to 17:00
Departure 30/03/2024 at 23:59
A coastal city on the main island of Honshū, Kobe is a vital Japanese port. You will be inspired by the authenticity, way of life and heritage of the capital of Hyōgo Prefecture, which is bordered by the sea. Its beef is internationally renowned, but there is much more to the city’s attractions than this delicate speciality. As soon as you arrive, you will be welcomed by the Kobe Port Tower, located, along with the Maritime Museum, in the much appreciated Meriken Park. The Mount Rokkō National Park is a real island of greenery in the very heart of the vibrant city. Long frequented by Shinto monks, then popular with the expatriates who flocked to Kobe during the second half of the 19th century, it is one of the symbols of the city.
31 March 2024 - Inujima (Okayama)
Arrival 31/03/2024
Departure 31/03/2024
A small verdant island in the Seto Inland Sea, Inujima charms lovers of rugged landscapes and art. A flourishing centre of the mining industry more than a century ago, particularly for copper extraction, the island is now a favourite destination of modern art enthusiasts, due to the activities developed since the 1980s. It is notably home to the Seirensho Art Museum, designed around the remaining blackened walls of a former copper refinery. Inujima offers an ideal mix of wild landscapes, industrial past, and contemporary art. The island will be the perfect port of call for relaxing, enjoying this exceptional panorama, and admiring singular and ambitious works of art.
1 April 2024 - Tomonoura
Arrival 01/04/2024
Departure 01/04/2024
Anchored to the south-eastern end of the Nunakama Peninsula, facing the calm and clear waters of the Seto Inland Sea, Tomonoura is a destination particularly appreciated for its authentic and old-fashioned atmosphere that gives it an incomparable charm. In the past used as a port where boats would moor while waiting for a favourable wind, the charming and picturesque village now serves to inspire many filmmakers and artists. With good reason, since its craggy landscapes, its cherry trees in blossom, its gentle way of life, its traditional wooden houses and its port, preserved since the Edo era, notably enabled the artist Hayao Miyazaki to make the animated film Ponyo.
1 April 2024 - Onomichi
Arrival 01/04/2024
Departure 01/04/2024
Anchored on the northern shores of the Seto Inland Sea, in the Hiroshima prefecture, the historical city of Onomichi extends from the main island of Honshu to certain neighbouring islands, linked by the bridges of the Shimanami Kaido motorway. Before becoming this peaceful town with its charming, sloping little streets, Onomichi established itself in the 7th century as a nerve centre of the rice trade for the entire Japanese archipelago. Although its activity is diminished today, the port remains at the centre of the town’s culture. Onomichi now stands out for its exceptional heritage. With good reason, since it can boast over twenty temples and shrines, saved from the bombing of the Second World War. Among them are Senkō-ji, offering an outstanding panoramic view over the whole town, Saikoku-ji and its three-storied pagoda, and Jōdo-ji and its emblematic eleven-faced statue of the goddess Guanyin.
2 April 2024 - Mitarai
Arrival 02/04/2024
Departure 02/04/2024
A charming fishing village nestling in the east of Osaki Shimojima Island, on the edge of the Seto Inland Sea, Mitarai is appreciated for its traditional charm and authentic character. A trip back in time to the Edo Period, where the hustle and bustle of modern cities is replaced by the gentle sound of fishing boats. Thanks to its 19th century wooden dwellings lining the small, narrow streets, its great causeway, its centuries-old sanctuaries and its gangi stairs, a stone structure giving on to the sea, the old town was classed as a Preservation District by the Japanese state in 1994.
2 April 2024 - Shimokamagari
Arrival 02/04/2024
Departure 02/04/2024
The island of Shimokamagari stretches into the heart of the Seto Inland Sea, off the coast of the town of Kure, in the Hiroshima prefecture. A historical city during the feudal period, the island was the theatre of major diplomatic missions for the future and the Empire’s trade relationships, notably with repeated visits from mainly Korean, but also Chinese and Dutch, emissaries. Registered since 2017 on the UNESCO Memory of the World Programme, documentary heritage of these encounters is conserved in the Shotoen Garden, one of the emblems of this lush islet. A magnificent Japanese garden with perfectly kept grounds, interspersed with raked pebbles and surrounded with majestic trees, it is home to a Rantokaku Museum complex, consisting of four exhibition rooms tracing the island’s naval history.
3 April 2024 - Miyajima Island
Arrival 03/04/2024
Departure 03/04/2024
At the heart of the Inland Sea, Miyajima, the “island sanctuary” will reveal its treasures. In the background you will see the Shinto Grand Sanctuary, whose entrance is guarded by a magnificent vermillion “Torii“. Considered to be one of the most beautiful sites in the Japanese islands, you will be transported by the unique character and the serenity of this sacred site.
4 April 2024 - Hagi
Arrival 04/04/2024
Departure 04/04/2024
In the south of Honshu island, surrounded by mountains, Hagi is a city of water. For good reason; it was built on the delta of the Abu-gawa river. Its castle was built in the 17th century and its outer walls remain in the lovely Shizuki Park. The old town was one of the cradles of the Meiji revolution. You will discover its rich past in streets lined with old houses and samurai manors, or within the walls of the many museums and Hagi-yaki ceramics workshops.
5 April 2024 - Yeosu
Arrival 05/04/2024
Departure 05/04/2024
Yeosu is a charming coastal city in South Korea’s South Jeolla Province. It is part of an archipelago comprising more than 317 verdant islands. Yeosu is known for being a hidden gem with picturesque scenery, but also for its strong naval history. And with good reason since, in the early 14th century, the city became home to naval headquarters during the Joseon Dynasty. This destination, with a mix of modern architecture and vestiges of a strong past, will enthrall you with its stunning beaches edged by the pure and warm waters of the Sea of Japan.
6 April 2024 - Fukuoka
Arrival 06/04/2024 early morning
Disembarkation 06/04/2024 at 08:00
At the northern tip of the subtropical island of Kyūshū, Fukuoka stands proudly at the centre of a veritable natural setting, between lush mountains and the crystal-clear and calm waters of Hakata Bay. A modern city and high-tech hub, which has earned it the nickame of the Japanese “Silicon Valley” in particular, the seventh town in Japan stands out for its rich cultural and historical heritage. Promoted as one of the nerve centres of maritime trade from the 15th century onward, it experienced long decades of prosperity. A period of splendour which, among other things, saw the construction of many spiritual buildings, including the Sumiyoshi-jinja shrine and the Tochoji temple, as well as its emblematic Maizuru Castle, erected in the 17th century.
Le Jacques-Cartier
In keeping with the philosophy of PONANT and the PONANT EXPLORERS, Le Jacques-Cartier is a modern ship with slender, tapered lines, it is environmentally friendly and equipped with innovative technology.
Tastefully decorated, Le Jacques-Cartier reflects the universe so dear to PONANT, with its light tones and open-to-the-sea design providing soft light and luminosity at every instant of the day. Its ethnic chic ambiance pays homage to the destinations we visit.
Located below the waterline, the Blue Eye offers a unique experience: the opportunity to enjoy undersea views and the sounds of the marine world whilst sharing a glass together.
Decks
Tropical Expedition
Explore the planet’s most remote tropical regions during a PONANT expedition cruise. In the heart of Oceania’s archipelagos or the Indian Ocean atolls, along the wild coastlines of Central America or Australia, our luxury amenities and services will make your expedition cruise an unforgettable experience. Our expedition leaders and their teams of naturalist guides devise exceptional itineraries and organise daily outings, shore visits in Zodiac® dinghies, or snorkelling when the cruises are conducive to it, to take you as close as possible to nature. Aboard the ship, they share their knowledge during lectures on a variety of topics such as the fauna and flora, the history of the great explorations, geology and climatology. On land, using the local transport options or during hikes, discover the must-see natural sites and, for a few hours, partake in the life and ancestral customs of the local populations.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
30/03/2024 - A GLIMPSE OF KOBE
310 €
Find out more26/03/2024 - KYOTO AND NARA, IMPERIAL HERITAGE (4 NIGHTS)
3.570 €
Find out more06/04/2024 - DISCOVER FUKUOKA (1 NIGHT)
1.800 €
Find out more06/04/2024 - TOKYO, BETWEEN MODERNITY AND TRADITION (4 NIGHTS)
4.230 €
Find out more29/03/2024 - FLIGHTS FROM/TO PARIS + A GLIMPSE OF KOBE (PRE) + POST DISCOVER FUKUOKA (1 NIGHT) (POST)
5.145 €
Find out more29/03/2024 - FLIGHTS FROM/TO PARIS + A GLIMPSE OF KOBE (PRE) + POST KYOTO ET NARA IMPERIAL HERITAGE (4 NIGHTS) (POST)
7.485 €
Find out moreA GLIMPSE OF KOBE
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your day time between the airport and your port of embarkation.
Osaka/Kobe
Meet at Kansai International airport, arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT.
You will board the coach for a full day tour of Osaka, the second largest city in Japan and the biggest merchant city on the West coast of the Land of the Rising Sun.
After a one-hour drive, you will make a first stop at Sumiyoshi Taisha shrine. The entire Sumiyoshi Taisha classified “National Treasure”, dating from the third century and rebuilt from the nineteenth century, is dedicated to the four kami gods, of the sea and sea voyage, agriculture, diplomacy and waka poetry. The Empress Jingu (169-269), known for her conquest of Korea, is also worshiped. In the past, sea merchants would stop in Osaka to pray to Sumiyoshi Taisha, before returning to their ships.
A Japanese style lunch will be served in a local restaurant.
After lunch, continue your exploration by the visit of the main building of Osaka Castle. Osaka Castle was a monumental fortification constructed, upon the order of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, to be the strongest and enclosed by stone walls 12 kilometres in length. The castle took three and a half years to complete and required 30,000 to 40,000 men. It played a major role in the unification of Japan. It was destroyed and rebuilt several times. The entire Osaka Castle Park covers about two square kilometres.
You will then be transferred to the port of Kobe to embark on your ship.
Your programme includes:
-
Lunch (Japanese style) with beverage package (water + 1 soft drink or 1 local beer or 1 glass of wine + 1 Japanese tea).
-
Transfers and visits as mentioned in the programme.
-
Services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
-
Tips for the driver and local guide.
-
Visa costs, if necessary.
-
Personal expenses and other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
-
It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
- The local currency is the yen. We recommend that you bring the amount of money you will need for the trip, or you can use your credit card to withdraw yen from the cash machines (note that only Japan Post Bank & Seven Eleven machines accept foreign credit cards).
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : 310 €
KYOTO AND NARA, IMPERIAL HERITAGE (4 NIGHTS)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Take advantage of four unforgettable days between Kyoto and Nara to discover the ancient imperial capitals. Immerse yourself in traditional Japan, between temples, meditation, Geisha dances and tea ceremony. This programme, rich in experience, will be the perfect prelude to your embarkation.
Day 1 - Osaka/Kyoto
Meet at Kansai International airport. You will be greeted by our local representative off your flight provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent.
Transfer from the airport to the 5* hotel selected by PONANT.
Lunch, afternoon, and dinner at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2 - Kyoto
Breakfast.
The tour will take you first to take part in Zazen, seated Zen meditation. Zazen is a way of training for monks to obtain enlightenment. It is considered the heart of Zen Buddhist practice. You will sit in the silent room separated from the ordinary life. Also, you will have a chance to experience Japanese tea ceremony. The tea ceremony is one of the most representative forms of Japanese beauty, and participating in a ceremony is one of the best ways to come into contact with the Japanese sense of spirituality.
Lunch will be served in a local restaurant.
Then, you will proceed to Kiyomizu Temple; kiyoi mizu means "pure water" or "spring water". Kiyomizu Temple is noted for its cliff top Main Hall with a broad wooden veranda offering a panoramic view of Kyoto and environs. The veranda is supported on a towering scaffold of wood. The Main Hall has been designated a National Treasure.
Enjoy some time at leisure to purchase souvenirs in the nearby shopping streets.
After your visit, you will return to your hotel to freshen up.
Before your transfer to enjoy a Japanese kaiseki dinner (consisting up of several small courses), you will stop in Gion, one of Kyoto's historic districts, with beautiful traditional houses. It is the city's Geiko district (geisha are known as Geiko in Kyoto).
Enjoy a Kaiseki dinner which is a traditional multi-course Japanese dinner, with a Maiko (an apprentice geisha in Kyoto) and a Geiko (a full-fledged artist known as Geisha outside of Japan) who will perform.
You will then be transferred back to your hotel.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 3 - Kyoto
Breakfast.
The tour will take you first to Kinkakuji Temple, or the Temple of the Golden Pavilion. It is a temple dedicated to the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy. Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, the third of the Ashikaga Shoguns, built a retirement estate there in 1398. After his death in 1419, the grounds were turned into a Buddhist temple for the Rinzai sect. The only building to remain standing of Yoshimitsu's estate was the Golden Pavilion. The upper stories are covered in gold leaf and the roof is topped by a bronze phoenix. It was listed on UNESCO's World Heritage List in 1994.
You will then arrive at Ryoan-ji Temple, literally "The Temple of the Dragon at Peace". It belongs to the Myoshin-ji school of the Rinzai branch of Zen Buddhism. The name of the temple evokes its famous 15th-century rock garden, considered one of the masterpieces of Japanese Zen culture. It is the country's most-visited rock garden.
Enjoy a Japanese style lunch served in a local restaurant.
After lunch, you will proceed to Arashiyama region, located on the western outskirts of Kyoto, and the Tenryuji Temple, founded by Ashikaga Takauji in 1339. As a temple related to both the Ashikaga family and Emperor Godaigo, the temple is held in high esteem.
Stroll through the 14th Century landscape garden, featuring Ryumon Falls and a stone bridge. This garden is part of part of the « Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto » and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Legend has it that if one day a fish were to swim up the Ryumon Falls, it would turn into a dragon. Enjoy a stroll through the bamboo groves, a natural beauty that is one of the region's main attractions.
Transfer back to your hotel for a short break to freshen up.
Enjoy a Japanese Shabu-shabu dinner served in a local restaurant. For your meal, a pot of boiling water to cook food will be placed on your table. You will dip thin slices of beef and fresh vegetables into a pot of broth several times for few seconds. "Shabu-shabu" is the sound of the meat swished in the broth.
You will then be transferred back to your hotel.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 4 - Kyoto
Breakfast.
You will start your day with an immersion in Japanese tradition. Through the transcendent thumping rhythms, you will discover the art of the taiko, the large drum sculpted from elm or keyaki (zelkova or Japanese elm) wood. The word "taiko" also designates the way of playing the drum, meaning that the instrument and the way of playing its music are thus inextricably linked. Legend has it that the divinity of mirth, Uzume, helped the gods bring light to earth by drawing the goddess of sun, Amaterasu, out of her cave. To do this, she danced on a barrel, thus creating the taiko.
Then, dressed in kimono, a symbol of Japanese culture, you'll enjoy Japanese calligraphy, considered the art of achieving longevity and mastery of body and mind. Buddhist monks use calligraphy as a form of meditation. Dressed in kimono, symbol of Japanese culture.
A lunch will be served in a local restaurant (Japanese menu).
Optional activity (with extra fees): Fushimi-inari Shrine and dinner.
Dinner will be at leisure if you have not chosen the optional activity.
Extend your day of discovery by letting yourself be tempted by an all-new experience that will plunge you into traditional Japan.
You will leave the hotel with your guide by private car.
First, you will arrive at Fushimi-Inari Shrine. This is the site where you can see hundreds of vermillion torii gates lining up, making a tunnel, one of the most iconic views in the country. Fushimi-Inari is the head shrine of some 40,000 Inari shrines located throughout the land. It was founded in 711 and is dedicated to five Shinto deities.
Then, you will be transferred to a restaurant for your Tempura dinner.
You will be drive back to your hotel.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 5 – Kyoto/Nara/Kobe
Breakfast before check-out.
To start your day, you will set off to meet the monumental bronze Buddha, who takes centre stage in the heart of the Todai-ji Temple. The building rises majestically in Nara Park. Commissioned in 743 by Emperor Shômu when Nara was the imperial capital of Japan, it took eight years to build and was restored during the Edo era. Standing 47 metres (150 feet) high and with enormous wooden pillars , the ancestral Great Buddha Hall remains the world's largest wooden building, earning its inclusion on the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Then, you will continue with a visit of Nara's most celebrated shrine, Kasuga Taisha. Established in 768 and listed as a Unesco World Heritage Site, its vermilion-red lacquered buildings form a striking contrast with the surrounding vegetation. Nearly two thousand bronze and stone lanterns line the sanctuary, and a thousand metal lanterns hang along the corridors.
Before lunch, you will stroll through the Isui-en Garden, a traditional Japanese garden created at the end of the 17th century as the private garden of a rich merchant and opened in the middle of the 19th century. Meticulously planned and maintained, it reveals the art of Japanese garden design, seeking balance and harmony while paying homage to the beauty of nature. It consists of two spaces: Minami Shin-en, in the heart of which you will discover a pond, a waterfall and a tea house; and Kita Shin-e, consisting of a bamboo grove, a small stream and a variety of flowering cherry trees and Japanese maples.
Enjoy a lunch in a local restaurant.
You will then be transferred to the port of Kobe to embark on board your ship. It is approximately a one-and-a-half-hour drive.
Your programme includes:
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4-night accommodation in Standard room at a 5* hotel selected by PONANT, local standards (or similar), breakfast included.
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Meals as mentioned in the programme.
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Beverages package during meals (water + 1 soft drink or 1 local beer + 1 glass of wine + 1 Japanese tea).
-
Transfers, visits, and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
-
The services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
-
Lunch and dinner on day 1, dinner on day 4.
-
Personal expenses.
-
Visa if necessary.
-
Tips for the driver and local guide.
-
Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
-
It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
-
The local currency is the yen. We recommend that you bring the amount of money you will need for the trip, or you can use your credit card to withdraw yen from the cash machines (note that only Japan Post Bank & Seven Eleven machines accept foreign credit cards).
-
You will have to take off your shoes before entering any of the temples. During visits, it is advisable to respect dress codes (covering the upper body and legs below the knees).
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There will be long walk on unpaved and bumpy roads with some stairs. Many steep steps involved. This tour is not recommended for guests with walking difficulties.
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Baggage allowance: 1 piece of baggage with a maximum of weight of 20 kg for the regular flight. We have included 3 extra kg, so you are allowed to check-in 1 piece of baggage of a maximum weight of 23 kg. Hand baggage: 1 piece with a maximum weight of 10 kg for which we have included 2 extra kg, so you are allowed to take a hand baggage of a maximum weight of 12 kg, and the sum of three dimensions shall not exceed 115 cm (45in) (55 x 40 x 25 cm) or (22 x 16 x 10 inches).
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : 3.570 €
DISCOVER FUKUOKA (1 NIGHT)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Day 1 - Fukuoka/Tokyo
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local representative and start your tour of Fukuoka.
You will attend the Morimoto Noh Theater for a Noh experience.
Noh is a form of dramatic theatre unique to Japan. It reached its peak about 650 years ago. Considered to be one of the oldest dramatic arts in the world, Noh has been designated as Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO. Noh consists of Mai (dance), Utai (vocals), and Hayashi (music). Many of the feudal lords loved Noh and even performed it. Even today, Noh is loved by people all over Japan. A professional actor will deliver a short presentation of Noh and Noh masks. You will enjoy a live Noh performance, including dancing and chanting by the Noh actor dressed in a kimono and wearing a mask.
You will continue on to the Kawabata Shopping Arcade. This is the oldest shopping street in Hakata, with around 130 shops in an arcade 400 metres (1,312 feet) long. The shops sell a variety of products, such as traditional Hakata dolls, items for the Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival, local specialities, and more.
Lunch will be served in a local restaurant (Japanese menu).
After lunch, you will visit Tochoji Temple to see the Great Buddha. A designated historical site, Tochoji is the head temple of the Kyushu sect of Shingon Buddhism. It contains a Buddhist Senju Kannon statue from the Heian period, between the 8th and 12th centuries, carved out of a single log of black pine. One of this temple’s most remarkable treasures is the Great Buddha of Fukuoka. It took four years to carve this statue, starting in 1988. Standing approximately 11 metres (36 feet) tall and weighing 30 tons, it is the largest seated Buddha statue in Japan.
Then, you will be transferred to Fukuoka airport for your domestic flight selected by PONANT to Tokyo.
Arrival at Tokyo airport, meet with our local representative.
You will head to your 5* hotel selected by PONANT.
Your dinner will be served at the restaurant of the hotel.
Night at the hotel.
Day 2 – Tokyo
After breakfast and check-out, time at leisure depending on your flight schedule.
You will then be transferred to the airport in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
Your programme includes:
• 1-night accommodation in standard room at the 5* hotel selected by PONANT, local standards (or similar), breakfast included.
• A domestic flight: Fukuoka airport – Tokyo airport in economy class on a regular airline.
• Meals as mentioned in the programme.
• Beverage package during meals (water + 1 soft drink or 1 glass of wine + 1 Japanese tea).
• Transfers, visits, and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
• The services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
• Personal expenses.
• Visa costs, if necessary.
• Tips for the driver and local guide.
• Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
• It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
• The local currency is the yen. We recommend that you bring the amount of money you will need for the trip, or you can use your credit card to withdraw yen from the cash machines (note that only Japan Post Bank & Seven Eleven machines accept foreign credit cards).
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : 1.800 €
TOKYO, BETWEEN MODERNITY AND TRADITION (4 NIGHTS)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Take advantage of three unforgettable days between Tokyo and Hokkaido. Immerse yourself in both traditional and modern Japan, between skylines, shopping streets, temples and gardens. This programme rich in visits, will be the perfect prelude to your embarkation.
Day 1 – Fukuoka/Tokyo
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local representative.
Before your Japanese style lunch in a local restaurant, you will have time to stroll in Nakasu and Hakata stations, the main areas of Fukuoka.
After your lunch, you will be transferred by coach to Fukuoka international airport for your domestic flight selected by PONANT to Tokyo.
Upon arrival, you will be greeted by our local representative.
You will depart the airport by coach for your 5* hotel selected by PONANT, for checking in.
Afternoon and dinner at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2 – Tokyo
Breakfast.
You will first visit the superb National Museum of Tokyo which houses the world's largest collection of Japanese art, as well as ancient pottery, religious sculptures, Samurai swords, kimonos and many other objects.
Lunch will be served in a local restaurant (Japanese menu).
After lunch, you will go to the very popular district of Asakusa, where the traditional atmosphere of Tokyo lives on. You will visit the famous Senso-ji Buddhist temple constructed in the 7th century. The main hall was first built in 645 to house a small golden statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, that fishermen had hauled out in their nets several times.
After the large Kaminarimon gate, you will walk down the long arcade called?Nakamise-dori, before discovering a five-story pagoda, the highest one after the To-jin Temple south of Kyoto.
The lesser-known Shinto Asakusa Shrine to the right of the main hall is the venue for one of the country's most famous Shinto festivals, the Sanja Matsuri.
On the way back to your hotel, you will linger along the Sumida River with its cherry blossoms before making a second stop, at the Imperial Palace Plaza. This historic treasure is built on the site of the former Edo castle, which, at its peak, was the largest in the world. Only the moats and the ramparts remain today. The main building is well-hidden in a small forest and is not visible.
You will have dinner in the restaurant of your hotel.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 3 – Tokyo
Breakfast.
Your first visit will be devoted to the Hama-rikyu Gardens. Overlooked by the skyscrapers of the Shidome business district, this traditional Japanese garden was created in the 17th century and has been designated both a Special National Historic Site and a Special National Place of Scenic Beauty by the Japanese Ministry of Culture. It features the only seawater pond dating back to the Edo era in Tokyo. In this calm and soothing oasis, you will enjoy the experience of a tea ceremony in the Nakashima-no-ochaya tea house.
Next, you will visit Roppongi Hills. Roppongi Hills is the largest city redevelopment area with luxury housing and over 200 boutiques and restaurants. A panoramic view from the observatory on the 52nd floor, which is called Tokyo City View, is superb. Take in the massive 360-degree view of Tokyo, one of the world's most dynamic and spectacular cities, and totally unlike any other.
After having a lunch in a local restaurant (Japanese menu), let yourself be tempted by an all-new experience that will plunge you a little further into modern Japan.
At the end of the afternoon, your dinner will be at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 4 – Tokyo
Breakfast.
You will be able to start your day of discovery by letting yourself be tempted by an all-new experience that will plunge you into traditional Japan.
At the beginning of the day, you will enjoy an intimate experience in the heart of the Bonsai Museum. Through the art of Kunio Kobayashi, the museum’s founder, you will be initiated in this traditional horticultural practice. Apprentices from around the world will tell you about the history of the art of cutting bonsai, a symbol of harmony and serenity.
Lunch will be served in a local restaurant (Japanese menu).
Your next stop will be Meiji Jingu Shrine. It is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken. Emperor Meiji passed away in 1912 and Empress Shoken, in 1914. The shrine, built in 1920, comprises three areas: the Naien, Inner Precincts, centered on the shrine buildings; the Gaien, or Outer Precincts, which include sports facilities, the Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery, and the Meiji Memorial Hall. The shrine spreads over 700,000 square meters covered by a forest of 120,000 trees of 365 species donated by people from all over Japan. Sumo wrestlers, upon rising to the rank of Grand Champion, give a demonstration at Meiji Jingu. For many Japanese the shrine is both a spiritual home and an oasis in Tokyo.
Then, you will have some time to stroll around Omotesando Street. This avenue, "the front approach", originally served Meiji Shrine. It is one of the most fashionable areas of Tokyo with numerous high-endly qualified brand shops and sophisticated restaurants.
Before going to a local restaurant for your dinner, you will cross the globally famous Shibuya Crossing. Known as the largest crossing in the world, it embodies the bubbling, modern and prosperous metropolis. For the Japanese, the Shibuya Crossing is also the story of Hachiko. This dog would wait here for its master every afternoon at the same time, even after his death. The junction thus represents the two essential qualities of the Japanese: loyalty and perseverance.
Enjoy a Japanese Shabu-shabu dinner served in a local restaurant. For your meal, a pot of boiling water to cook food will be placed on your table. You will dip thin slices of beef and fresh vegetables into a pot of broth several times for few seconds. “Shabu-shabu” is the sound of the meat swished in the broth.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 5 – Tokyo
After breakfast and check-out, time at leisure depending on your flight schedule.
You will then be transferred to the airport in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
Your programme includes:
• 4-night accommodation in standard room at the 5* hotel selected by PONANT, local standard (or similar), breakfast included.
• A domestic flight: Fukuoka airport – Tokyo airport in economy class on a regular airline.
• Meals as mentioned in the programme.
• Beverages package during meals (water + 1 soft drink or 1 local beer + 1 glass of wine + 1 Japanese tea).
• Transfers and visits as mentioned in the programme.
• Services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
• Lunch and dinner on Day 1, dinner on Day 4.
• Overweight baggage.
• Tips for the driver and local guide.
• Personal expenses and other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
• It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
• The local currency is the yen. We recommend that you bring the amount of money you will need for the trip, or you can use your credit card to withdraw yen from the cash machines (note that only Japan Post Bank & Seven Eleven machines accept foreign credit cards).
• You will have to take off your shoes before entering any of the temples. To visit temples, it is advisable to respect dress codes (covering the upper body and legs below the knees).
• There will be long walk on unpaved and bumpy roads with some stairs. This programme is not recommended for guests with walking difficulties.
• Baggage allowance: 1 piece of baggage with a maximum weight of 20 kg for the regular flight Tokyo-Sapporo. We have included 3 extra kg, so you are allowed to check-in 1 piece of baggage with a maximum weight of 23 kg. Hand baggage: 1 piece with a maximum weight of 10 kg for which we have included 2 extra kg, so you are allowed to take a hand baggage of a maximum weight of 12 kg, and the sum of three dimensions shall not exceed 115 cm (45in) (55 x 40 x 25 cm) or (22 x 16 x 10 inches).
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : 4.230 €
FLIGHTS FROM/TO PARIS + A GLIMPSE OF KOBE (PRE) + POST DISCOVER FUKUOKA (1 NIGHT) (POST)
Total : 5.145 €
FLIGHTS FROM/TO PARIS + A GLIMPSE OF KOBE (PRE) + POST KYOTO ET NARA IMPERIAL HERITAGE (4 NIGHTS) (POST)
Total : 7.485 €