DETAILS
Join us for an eight-night cruise through the Inland Sea and the Sea of Japan aboard the 140-passenger Heritage Adventurer. Venture beyond the major cosmopolitan cities to a fascinating variety of historic towns, artistic centers, and remote islands. An optional pre-trip extension to Kamakura and the hot springs resort of Hakone, and an optional post-trip extension to Kyoto and the ancient city of Nara, are also available.
- Pricing from
- $8,990
- Trip Type
- Group Travel Tour, International Ocean & Sea Voyages
- Departure Dates
-
May 12, 2026 - May 23, 2026
Originally designed to accommodate 184 guests, Heritage Adventurer now welcomes just 140 passengers in her spacious and stylish interior. All cabins offer living and sleeping areas with a king or two single beds, flat screen entertainment system, ample storage, a writing desk, and a modern en-suite bathroom. Public spaces and open decks abound, including two separate bar and lounge areas featuring 180-degree views and the open-topped Observation Deck for 360-degree views. Delectable meals are served in the gourmet restaurant on Deck 4 and in the indoor/outdoor bistro on Deck 6, with both dining options offering plenty of seating and large picture windows. On Deck 7, enjoy the open-air saltwater pool that can be heated or chilled and is surrounded by sun loungers, a hot tub encased in glass for all-weather use, a dry-heat Finnish sauna, a European steam room, and a well equipped gym. Other onboard facilities include a gift shop, well-stocked library, and a wellness center offering facials and massages.
O P T I O N A L E X T E N S I O N S
MAY 9-13, 2026
KAMAKURA AND HAKONE WITH A TWO-NIGHT STAY AT A LUXURY RYOKAN
Take an overnight flight to Tokyo, Japan, and transfer to the centrally-located Hotel New Otani. On the morning of May 13, travel to the hot springs resort of Hakone for a two-night stay at a luxurious ryokan, (traditional Japanese inn), with a private openair hot springs tub on your balcony overlooking the mountains or valley and 2 large communal onsen baths, offering mineral-rich waters and epic views. En route to Hakone, visit the historic center of Kamakura, home to Zen temples and a famous giant bronze statue of Buddha, Daibutsu. Explore the Hakone Open-Air Museum, including its Picasso Pavilion and over 120 world-class modern sculptures, and then enjoy a short pleasure cruise on picturesque Lake Ashinoko. Weather permitting, take a gondola to the summit of Mt. Komagatake for spectacular views of Mt. Fuji and to see the geothermal crater there with its active sulfur vents, bubbling pools, and hot springs. Return to Tokyo and admire panoramic views of the city from the observation decks of the Tokyo Skytree tower and enjoy free time to explore and shop in the vibrant
and historic Asakusa district. Don’t miss the iconic Senso-ji Temple, one of Tokyo’s most colorful and popular temples (and its oldest).
HOTEL NEW OTANI, HAKONE KOWAKIEN TEN-YU
Extension Cost
Twin, per person, sharing ……………………………………………………………………………… $2,550
Single accommodations ………………………………………………………………………………… $2,990
MAY 23-26, 2026
KYOTO AND NARA
WITH A THREE-NIGHT STAY IN KYOTO AND A VISIT TO THE ANCIENT CAPITAL OF NARA
Spend three additional nights based out of Kyoto, a picturesque city renowned for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. After disembarking, begin the post-tour extension with an exploration of Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, one of the largest aquariums in the world, featuring the vast array of marine life found in the Pacific Rim. It is organized into 15 zones, including a massive central tank that is home to several whale sharks! Continue to the ancient capital of Nara for a visit to the National Museum and UNESCO World Heritage Site, Todai-ji, one of Japan’s most famous and historically significant temples and home of Daibutsu (the Great Buddha). Spend the remainder of the extension in Kyoto. Explore the historic and charming alley called Pontocho, known for its lively nightlife. At the Zen Temple of Tenru-ji, stroll through the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Marvel at the Shinto shrine of Fushimi Inari Taisha, with its thousands of red torii gates, and visit the iconic UNESCO World Heritage-designated Kinkaku-ji, or Golden Pavilion. Tour the Miho Museum, known for its stunning architectural design by I.M. Pei and its exceptional collection of ancient and traditional art and artifacts. Finally, explore the vibrant and bustling Nishiki Market, with its diverse mix of food stalls and shops. This itinerary allows for ample free time to explore the city’s culture and history and to savor regional delicacies. The Farewell Dinner will be in Gion, Kyoto’s most famous geisha district.
Westin Miyako Kyoto
Extension Cost
Twin, per person, sharing ……………………………………………………………………………… $2,690
Single accommodations ………………………………………………………………………………… $3,440
Upon payment of the $1,000 per person deposit, all reservations are subject to the cancellation provisions set forth below and by which the passenger agrees to be bound. Cancellations shall not be in effect until they are received in writing and confirmed by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Deposits are refundable (less a $250 per person administration fee) if written notice of cancellation is received within 30 days of reservation; after that, deposits are 100% nonrefundable. After final payment deadline all payments are 100% nonrefundable, regardless of booking date. Trip cancellation insurance is strongly recommended. NOTE: Neither the
National Trust Tours nor Criterion Travel, the tour operator, accepts liability for any airline cancellation penalties incurred with the purchase of non-refundable tickets.
TOUR MAP
ITINERARY
-
day 1 & 2
Depart U.S.
Depart the U.S on an overnight flight to Tokyo, Japan. Or, arrive early for a 3-night pre-trip extension to Kamakura and Hakone. Upon arrival, take a group transfer to Hilton Tokyo. The remainder of the day is free to rest, recover, and explore independently.
-
day 3
Tokyo
This morning attend a welcome orientation and lecture followed by a choice of two excursions: 1) Opt to visit the Mejii Shrine Complex located in a 175-acre forest, the Ukiyo-e Ota Memorial Museum of Art, and the modern architecture of Tokyo’s Aoyama district; or 2) Stroll through the Hamarikyu Gardens, a public garden park with tidal ponds, cruise along the Sumida River, and visit Shunkaen Bonsai Gardens and Museum to learn about the ancient art of bonsai. Gather this evening for a festive welcome dinner featuring local entertainment.
-
day 4
TOKYO/NIIGATA (EMBARK)
Choose between two morning excursions: 1) Visit the Tsukiji fish market and the Kappabashi culinary district, a street almost entirely populated by shops catering to the restaurant trade; or 2) enjoy a guided tour through the Ginza district, Tokyo’s most glamorous shopping district, including a visit to the iconic 12-story Ginza Mitsukoshi department store. This afternoon board the Shinkansen, Japan’s high-speed bullet train, for Niigata and upon arrival embark Heritage Adventurer.
-
day 5
SADO ISLAND
Visit remote Sado Island, home base for the famous taiko drumming group, Kodo (meaning “heartbeat”). Experience a private performance by some of the resident drummers, along with an interactive lesson and lecture on this ancient art form. Explore historic Shukunegi, a picturesque fishing village of wooden houses, narrow alleys, and canals. Tour the renowned Hokusetsu Sake Brewery to learn how Japanese rice wine is made and sample different types. This evening attend the Captain’s welcome reception and dinner aboard ship.
-
day 6
KANAZAWA
Call at the refined artistic center of Kanazawa for a morning visit to Kenroku-en, considered to be one of Japan’s top three gardens. Participate in a traditional tea ceremony at a classic Japanese teahouse or join a wagashi Japanese sweet workshop. Reboard Heritage Adventurer for a relaxing afternoon of cruising as the educational program continues.
-
day 7
MATSUE
Today choose from two morning excursion options: 1) Drive through lush countryside to the Adachi Museum of Art to explore its collection of modern Japanese works and exquisite, highly manicured gardens; or 2) Arrive in charming Matsue and visit Matsue Castle, one of the few surviving castles in Japan built in 1611, followed by free time to stroll through Matsue’s historic samurai quarter. Enjoy an afternoon at sea with time for lectures before dinner on board.
-
day 8
ULSAN, SOUTH KOREA
Arrive at the South Korean port of Ulsan, then drive inland to the city of Gyongju, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the capital of the Shilla kingdom that ruled for 1,000 years. See the famous Flying Horse Tomb, one of the royal burial mounds, and enjoy a guided tour of the National Museum’s highlights. After a traditional Korean lunch with entertainment, explore Bulguksa Temple, another UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Korea’s most beautiful Buddhist temples, known for its intricate paintings and two original 6th-century pagodas.
-
day 9
HIROSHIMA
Following a morning lecture at sea, call at Hiroshima in the afternoon. Visit the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, a place of remembrance, reflection, and education. Begin with a walk through the museum, a poignant tribute to the devastating impact of the atomic bombing during World War II and the subsequent efforts toward peace and nuclear disarmament. See the Atomic Bomb Dome, the only building left standing after the explosion, and present paper cranes at the Children’s Peace Monument. The remainder of the day is at leisure for independent exploration.
-
day 10
Miyajima
After a lecture and a relaxing morning of cruising, anchor off the coast of Miyajima Island and Zodiac ashore. Visit the 6th-century Itsukushima Shinto Shrine, a national treasure and UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its iconic brilliant red torii, a grand wooden gateway that appears to float on the sea at high tide. Enjoy free time to visit tiny temples and stroll through picturesque streets or ride the gondola up Mount Meisen for spectacular 360-degree views. Later this afternoon, relax and cruise through the scenic Inland Sea dotted with small islands.
-
day 11
Naoshima or Kurishiki/Okayama
Today opt for one of two excursion choices: 1) Visit captivating Naoshima Island, a mecca for innovative art and contemporary architecture, and tour its two world-class museums, Chichu Art Museum and Benesse House Museum, and see a growing body of interactive, unique art installations and outdoor sculptures known as the Art House Project; or, 2) Explore the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter and in Okayama and wander the spacious Korakuen Garden, one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan. Over 300 years old, this landscape garden is unique for its spacious lawns. Gather this evening for the captain’s farewell dinner aboard ship.
-
day 12
OSAKA (DISEMBARK)/HOME
After breakfast disembark Heritage Adventurer and take a group transfer to Kansai International Airport (KIX) for flights home or begin the optional post-trip extension to Nara and Kyoto.
Everything you need to know about the tour
Save this information for later by downloading the full tour brochure.
Be prepared with the National Trust Travel Plan
Since 1973, USI Affinity Travel Insurance Services has served travelers just like you, to help protect their travel plans