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Unknown Japan and South Korea – Mysteries in East Asia’s Island Kingdom

Unknown Japan and South Korea – Mysteries in East Asia’s Island Kingdom

JAAHL
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Description

This 19-day cruise aboard the HANSEATIC inspiration explores the mysteries and masterpieces of Japan and South Korea, tracing a unique route from Taiwan’s Keelung to Otaru. Highlights include island-hopping through Japan’s lesser-known Nansei Islands and west coast, marveling at hand-painted-like landscapes of white beaches, lush forests, and towering mountains. Guests will immerse in Japan’s veneration of nature through bathing rituals, shrines, and samurai culture, while visiting open-air architectural gems like pagodas, temples, and tea houses. Key stops include Okinawa, Hiroshima, Busan, and Hokkaido, offering an off-the-beaten-track adventure rich in cultural and natural splendor.

Trip Name
Unknown Japan and South Korea - Mysteries in East Asia’s Island Kingdom
Days
20
Overview
Vessel Type: Expedition Length: 138 m Passenger Capacity: 230 Built: 2021 The HANSEATIC inspiration, a small, state-of-the-art expedition ship with a maximum of 230 guests, offers a perfect blend of adventure and comfort for explorers seeking to uncover the world’s wonders. As an international vessel conducting cruises in both English and German, it brings over 30 years of expertise from a market leader in German-speaking countries to every journey. Each expedition is a masterpiece, passionately crafted to reveal far-flung worlds—be it icy realms, tropical paradises, wildlife havens, or cultural gems—making every voyage a unique discovery aboard this exceptional ship. Features of all cabins and suites An ocean view with even more: exclusively outside cabins and suites, almost all with balconies or French balconies Spaciously designed - enjoy a relaxing stay in rooms from 21 m²/226 ft² up to 71 m²/764 ft² in size Exceptionally equipped - for example, with binoculars, Nordic Walking poles, air conditioning, coffee machine and mini bar (free of charge) and 24-hour cabin service Separable beds Rain shower and heated wall in bathroom (e.g. for towels and wet parkas) Extensive infotainment with live broadcast and recordings of expert presentations, forwardview camera, navigation chart, films and much more Restaurants Aboard the HANSEATIC inspiration, a new kind of freedom blends adventure and pleasure with a culinary journey across three exceptional restaurants. The spacious HANSEATIC Restaurant offers flexible mealtimes and a free choice of seating, serving a daily-changing menu of global flavors inspired by local specialties, paired with fine wines and supported by attentive 24-hour cabin service. At the Lido Restaurant, guests can savor breakfast under the open sky or enjoy a perfectly grilled steak from the outdoor barbecue, complete with panoramic views and an open show kitchen. The specialty restaurant Nikkei fuses fine Japanese creations with modern Peruvian cuisine, delivering a unique dining experience that elevates exploration to new heights—all while bars in the Observation Lounge and HanseAtrium offer favorite drinks against stunning backdrops, from Nordic fjords to icy Antarctic vistas. Fitness and Wellness On the HANSEATIC inspiration, an extraordinary time out awaits after thrilling Zodiac rides, challenging hikes, or Arctic adventures. Unwind in the Ocean Spa, where a Finnish sauna with stunning ocean views, a gentle steam sauna, an ice fountain, and a relaxation room rejuvenate your senses, complemented by professional massages, cosmetic treatments, and eco-friendly products made from natural, vegan ingredients. Stay active in the 100 m² fitness room or separate course room—both with ocean vistas—guided by a fitness coach offering personalized advice and a variety of courses, either indoors or on deck. The pool area, with its flexible canopy, invites relaxation year-round, featuring water loungers, a whirlpool, and a bar, ensuring a perfect blend of indulgence and revitalization against the backdrop of the open sea. Knowledge Shore excursions and Zodiac rides come alive with deeper context through fascinating presentations in the HanseAtrium, a high-tech lounge where experts share daily precaps and recaps, doubling as an atmospheric evening bar for films and discussions. The Ocean Academy enhances the journey with a Study Wall and interactive poster of scientific insights, microscopes for exploring hidden wonders alongside experts, and Study Seats—with swivel touchscreens—for personal dives into science. Supported by travel diaries and destination videos, this immersive experience broadens horizons with cutting-edge tools and expertise.

Itinerary



Day 1 - Sun, 17.05.2026 Keelung (Taipei)/Taiwan
Departure 22.00 hrs
Day 2 - Mon, 18.05.2026 Relaxation at sea
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Day 3 - Tue, 19.05.2026 Nansei Islands/Japan: Naha/Okinawa
From 7.00 to 19.00 hrsNaha is the capital of the Okinawa Prefecture. Thanks to its blend of modern architecture and traditional culture, Naha is a popular holiday destination. The city offers busy shopping streets, historic sites such as Shuri Castle and a lively atmosphere. Visitors can also explore the region’s beaches and its unique Ryukyu culture.
Day 4 - Wed, 20.05.2026 Okinoerabu-Shima
From 7.00 to 18.00 hrs
Day 5 - Thu, 21.05.2026 Amami-Oshima
From 7.00 to 18.00 hrs
Day 6 - Fri, 22.05.2026 Yakushima
From 7.00 to 18.00 hrs
Day 7 - Sat, 23.05.2026 Japan’s south coast: Uwajima
From 13.00 to 19.00 hrs
Day 8 - Sun, 24.05.2026 Beppu
From 8.30 to 19.00 hrsBeppu, a charming resort in Japan, is famous for its impressive hot springs and volcanic activity. The Hells of Beppu are a collection of colourful, steaming thermal springs, while the Jigoku Mushi Kobo is a unique steam cooking centre. Beppu Onsen Hoyoland is a great place for a relaxing bath and Beppu Tower offers breathtaking panoramic views. Beppu is a paradise for wellness enthusiasts and nature lovers in equal measure.
Day 9 - Mon, 25.05.2026 Miyajima
 Hiroshima, arrival 20.00 hrs
Day 10 - Tue, 26.05.2026 Hiroshima
Departure 19.00 hrsHiroshima, a city with a significant history and fascinating culture, has a variety of highlights to offer. The Peace Memorial and the Peace Park are reminders of the tragic events of the atom bomb attack in 1945 and stand for the wish for peace and reconciliation. The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum provides vivid information about the effects of the atom bomb. The reconstructed Hiroshima Castle provides an insight into the samurai era. Hiroshima is a place of remembrance, but also of hope and new beginnings.
Day 11 - Wed, 27.05.2026 Relaxation at sea
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Day 12 - Thu, 28.05.2026 Busan/South Korea
From 7.00 to 19.00 hrs
Day 13 - Fri, 29.05.2026 Japan’s west coast: Karatsu
From 7.00 to 13.30 hrs
Day 14 - Sat, 30.05.2026 Oki Islands
From 8.30 to 18.00 hrs 
Day 15 - Sun, 31.05.2026 Maizuru
From 8.00 to 19.00 hrs
Day 16 - Mon, 01.06.2026 Kanazawa
From 7.00 to 19.00 hrs
Day 17 - Tue, 02.06.2026 Sado Island
From 8.00 to 18.00 hrs
Day 18 - Wed, 03.06.2026 Japan’s north coast: Akita
From 8.00 to 17.00 hrs
Day 19 - Thu, 04.06.2026 Hakodate
From 7.00 to 13.00 hrs
Day 20 - Fri, 05.06.2026 Otaru (Sapporo)/Japan
Arrival 8.00 hrs
Day 21 - Please note:
Itineraries are subject to change.

Trip Dates

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Inclusions

    • From Japan’s “South Sea Islands” along the rarely visited west coast to Hokkaido in the north
    • Island-hopping in Nippon – off the beaten track
    • Landscapes as if painted by hand: white beaches, lush green forests and high mountains
    • Discover a fascinating veneration of nature, bathing rituals, shrines and samurai
    • Open-air museums to Asian architecture: admire pagodas, temples and tea houses

Map