Southern Japan & South Korea Cultural Passage

10 days
Jun 2027 - Jul 2027
Mitsui Ocean Sakura

2027

from

$6,750

per person

Best Price Promise & Private Fares
from $6,750 per person

A richly varied early-summer departure from Tokyo, calling at the ancient UNESCO-listed cedar forests of Yakushima, the coastal town of Yatsushiro ablaze with June hydrangeas, South Korea's volcanic Jeju Island, the historic Meiji-era port of Moji, and Beppu's world-famous hot springs.

Port sequence, places visited, tours and times may be different from those published.

Itinerary

day 1 | Tokyo

Tokyo’s origins trace back to a small fishing village named Edo. Over centuries, Edo grew in importance and in 1603 became the seat of the ruling shogunate — marking the start of its rapid urbanization.

Tokyo blends deep tradition and ultra-modern urban life. Historic sites (imperial palace grounds, temples/shrines, old districts) sit alongside skyscrapers, neon-lit cityscapes, and cutting-edge architecture and technology.

Embark on the MITSUI OCEAN SAKURA and immerse yourself in its serene décor as you settle into your "all inclusive" suite.


day 2-3 | At sea


day 4 | Yakushima

Yakushima is a subtropical, mountainous island located off the southern coast of Kyushu in Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan. Renowned for its primeval temperate rainforests and ancient cedar trees, roughly one-fifth of the island was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993. The island is famously recognized as the rainiest place in Japan, generating a local proverb that it rains "35 days a month".


day 5 | Yatsushiro

Yatsushiro is a quiet riverside town known for traditional crafts, seasonal blooms, and cultural festivals. Located in Kumamoto Prefecture, on the west coast of Kyushu.

Lies along the Yatsushiro Sea (Yatsushiro-wan), a bay opening to the Ariake Sea. Its location combines coastal landscapes with nearby rural areas and small mountains inland.

Yatsushiro has a history as a regional castle town. Although the original castles are mostly gone, some historic sites and districts remain. It retains elements of traditional Kyushu townscapes, local shrines, and temples.


day 6 | Jeju Island (S. Korea)

Jeju is a picturesque South Korean island known for its volcanic landscapes, pristine beaches, and vibrant local culture, making it a beloved destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike.


day 7 | Karatsu

Arrive in Beppu, one of Japan’s most famous hot spring towns, known for its dramatic geothermal landscapes and traditional onsen culture. The city is dotted with steamy vents, bubbling pools, and unique “hells” that showcase the power of the earth beneath Kyushu. It’s an ideal gateway for exploring Beppu’s iconic thermal attractions and scenic viewpoints.


day 8 | Beppu

Arrive in Beppu, one of Japan’s most famous hot spring towns, known for its dramatic geothermal landscapes and traditional onsen culture. The city is dotted with steamy vents, bubbling pools, and unique “hells” that showcase the power of the earth beneath Kyushu. It’s an ideal gateway for exploring Beppu’s iconic thermal attractions and scenic viewpoints.


day 9 | At sea


day 10 | Tokyo

Tokyo’s origins trace back to a small fishing village named Edo. Over centuries, Edo grew in importance and in 1603 became the seat of the ruling shogunate — marking the start of its rapid urbanization.

Tokyo blends deep tradition and ultra-modern urban life. Historic sites (imperial palace grounds, temples/shrines, old districts) sit alongside skyscrapers, neon-lit cityscapes, and cutting-edge architecture and technology.


Ships

Mitsui Ocean Sakura

The name "MITSUI OCEAN SAKURA" honors the cherry blossom, a flower deeply cherished in Japan for its timeless beauty. With an overall length of under 200 meters, MITSUI OCEAN SAKURA’s agile hull allows her to access small harbors, remote islands, and sheltered bays, reaching every corner of Japan. Approaching beautiful coastlines, historic port towns, and unspoiled natural retreats from the sea is a special experience unique to Mitsui’s style of cruising.

As an intimate, 32,477-ton luxury ship accommodating 458 guests, she carries forward the legacy of her predecessor, the Nippon Maru. Voyages include stops at remote islands in Okinawa and Hokkaido, alongside seasonal journeys that celebrate local festivals, fireworks, music, and regional cuisine.

The ship also carries forward a culinary legacy built over more than 35 years aboard the Nippon Maru. The chefs, who know ocean dining inside and out, bring their dedication to every dish, coloring each meal of your journey. Onboard, guests will experience a harmonious blend of Japanese aesthetics and tradition.

Each stateroom offers an ocean view and suite-style comfort, with private verandas in about 90% of rooms. Guests may also relax in inviting lounges or on open-air decks—spaces thoughtfully designed for you to spend your travel time exactly as you please.



What's included

Inclusions:

  • One complimentary shore extension in every port of call with English Speaking Guide

  • Wi-Fi for one device (connection speed may vary)

  • Culinary Program Featured Japanese and International Cuisine with a wide choice of restaurants

  • A wide selection of included beverages—espresso, juice, soda, beer, wine, sake, and cocktails—with premium options for an additional fee.

  • Port Taxes & Fees (tips are not required)

  • Onboard Service from an International English-Speaking Staff

  • Entertainment includes traditional Japanese and Broadway-style

  • “Funatabi” Enrichment & Activities - Beautiful Encounters with Japan

  • Complimentary transportation into town in most ports

  • Access to Spa & Fitness Center

  • Self-service launderettes

  • 24-hour room service


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DISCLAIMER: Rates are per person, subject to availability and can change at any time

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