DETAILS
Discover the beauty of Japan on an 8-night voyage aboard the elegant Island Sky, exploring temples, shrines, gardens, and castles framed by spring’s fresh greenery. Begin in Kanazawa, known for its samurai and geisha districts, exquisite seafood, and Kenroku-en, one of Japan’s top three gardens. Visit historic castles, stroll stunning gardens, and explore Naoshima Island with a private lecture by author Pico Iyer. Marvel at the red torii of Itsukushima Shrine and spend a day in South Korea at Gyeongju, a UNESCO World Cultural Site. Tailor your journey with curated excursions and enjoy all the comforts of the all-suite Island Sky.
- Pricing from
- $9,990
- Trip Type
- International Ocean & Sea Voyages
- Departure Dates
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Apr 10, 2027 - Apr 20, 2027
The Island Sky is a 59-cabin, all-suite expedition ship. All cabins have an ocean view, en-suite bathroom with marble-topped vanity unit and walk-in shower, sitting area, spacious wardrobe, safe, minibar, individually controlled heat/air-conditioning, television and dressing table. The ship’s amenities include complimentary WiFi, a dining room, two lounges with bar service, a small library, an observation deck with comfortable lounge chairs, a hairdresser and laundry service. An elevator services all passenger cabin decks. The Island Sky’s chefs prepare quality international meals, predominantly Western-style, served at a single open seating. A friendly crew provides exceptional, personalized service, with more than a 1:2 crew-to passenger ratio. The ship features advanced satellite navigation and communication equipment, roll stabilizers and a fleet of Zodiac landing craft.
PRE-TRIP EXTENSION ITINERARY
TOKYO, JAPAN, APRIL 8-11, 2027
Arrive in Tokyo and immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant energy, where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with contemporary life. After settling into The Prince Park Tower, explore the Tokyo National Museum and the historic Asakusa district, home to the iconic Senso-ji Temple. Discover the sights and flavors of Japan with a visit to the famed Tsukiji fish market and the culinary treasures of Kappabashi. Your introduction to Japan concludes with a smooth bullet-train ride to Kanazawa, where the main program begins.
THURSDAY-FRIDAY, APRIL 8-9 – HOME / TOKYO, JAPAN
Arrive at Tokyo Narita (NRT) or Haneda (HND) Airport and enjoy individual meet-and-greets before your group transfer to The Prince Park Tower, located in the heart of Tokyo with stunning city views and elegant accommodations. This evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. THE PRINCE PARK TOWER (D)
SATURDAY, APRIL 10 – TOKYO
Tour the Tokyo National Museum, home to Japan’s finest collection of art and antiquities, then explore the historic Asakusa district at leisure, including a visit to the iconic Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest and most revered Buddhist temple. THE PRINCE PARK TOWER (B,L)
SUNDAY, APRIL 11-KANAZAWA
Start the day with a morning excursion to Tsukiji Fish Market and the Kappabashi Culinary District, where you can experience Japan’s vibrant food culture. Afterward, board the bullet train to Kanazawa, where the main tour begins. (B,L)
POST-TRIP EXTENSION ITINERARY
NARA AND KYOTO, APRIL 20-23, 2027
After disembarking the ship in Kobe, travel to the historic city of Nara, celebrated for its temples and artistic heritage. Explore the Nara National Museum and marvel at the Great Buddha before continuing to Kyoto, Japan’s cultural heart. Settle in for a three-night stay at the elegant Westin Miyako Kyoto, complete with an onsite onsen. Discover iconic sites and landmarks, and enjoy free time to wander the streets, soak in the atmosphere, and experience the charm of this timeless city.
TUESDAY, APRIL 20-KYOTO / NARA
Continue your journey by disembarking in Kobe, then travel to Nara, one of Japan’s ancient capitals, to explore the Nara National Museum and its remarkable collection of Buddhist art and cultural artifacts. Continue to the iconic Todai-ji Temple, where you’ll see the monumental Daibutsu (Great Buddha) housed within Japan’s largest wooden structure. After exploring Nara, journey to Kyoto and check in to The Westin Miyako Kyoto, set amid serene gardens and offering stunning city and mountain views. Conclude the day with dinner at a local restaurant, savoring regional flavors and cuisine. WESTIN MIYAKO KYOTO (L,D)
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 21-KYOTO
Visit Tenryu-ji Zen Temple and stroll through the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, an enchanting forest of towering bamboo. Walk beneath the iconic red and orange torii gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha, one of Japan’s most celebrated Shinto shrines. In the afternoon, explore the Miho Museum, renowned for its striking architecture and extensive art collection. The evening is at leisure to relax or explore Kyoto independently. WESTIN MIYAKO KYOTO (B,L)
THURDAY, APRIL 22-KYOTO
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and stroll through its beautifully landscaped gardens. Explore the lively, pedestrian-only Nishiki Food Market, sampling local delicacies along the way. Enjoy lunch on your own, then spend the afternoon at leisure to relax or explore Kyoto independently. In the evening, celebrate with a festive farewell dinner at a local restaurant in the historic Gion geisha district. WESTIN MIYAKO KYOTO (B,D)
FRIDAY, APRIL 23-KYOTO / HOME
After breakfast take a group transfer to the Kansai International Airport (KIX) for flights home. (B)
U.S. domestic and international airfare is not included in the program rates. Valerie Wilson Travel, Inc. can help with airline arrangements for this trip and can be reached at 877-376-1754. You are also welcome to book your air transportation through your local travel agent, an online travel site, or the airline of your choice. Further information about making flight arrangements will be sent to confirmed participants.
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Grace Gary
Grace Gary’s relationship with the National Trust began when, while in graduate school, she was chosen as a National Trust Maritime Intern. She’s hard to pin down on how many years ago that was, but she admits to having served as a lecturer on more-than eighty Trust tours over a span of more-than thirty years. She is also the author of two titles in the Trust’s “Information” series and served as director of the Trust’s Mid-Atlantic Regional Office. She also served as executive director of Preservation Pennsylvania, Longue Vue House and Gardens, Colonial Williamsburg’s Tourism Leadership Program, and Nemours Mansion and Gardens. While at Nemours she oversaw an $80 million restoration program, which received the highest award from the AIA ever bestowed on a restoration project. She and fellow National Trust Tours lecturer Dwight Young also co-authored “Nemours: A Portrait of Alfred I. DuPont’s Home,” which was published by Rizzoli. She is a graduate of Randolph-Macon Woman’s College and has a Master’s in architectural history from the University of Virginia, where she had the privilege of living on the Range in one of the original, Thomas Jefferson-designed rooms.
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
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day 1 & 2
Depart U.S. for Kanazawa
Depart home on an overnight flight to Komatsu. Crossing the international date line, you will arrive on April 11. Upon arrival at Komatsu Airport (KMQ), you will be met and transferred to the refined Hyatt Centric Kanazawa, ideally located near Kanazawa Station and convenient to the city’s celebrated gardens and samurai districts. This evening, gather for a welcome orientation and dinner at the hotel. HYATT CENTRIC KANAZAWA
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day 3
Kanazawa
Enjoy a choice of full day excursions. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Shirakawa-go, renowned for its traditional gassho zukuri farmhouses with steeply pitched thatched roofs, or travel to Yamanaka Onsen, set along the scenic Kakusenkei Gorge and long celebrated for its restorative hot springs. Both options include a traditional Japanese lunch. Embark the Island Sky in the late afternoon. This evening, attend the Captain’s welcome dinner on board. The ship remains in port overnight.
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day 4
Kanazawa
After Lecture #1, visit Kenroku-en, considered one of Japan’s three most celebrated landscape gardens. Created by the Maeda lords, it is known for its winding paths, tranquil ponds, stone lanterns, and carefully tended pines that reflect the changing seasons. Continue to Kanazawa’s preserved samurai district, where narrow lanes and earthen walls offer a glimpse into the lives of Edo period retainers. Enjoy free time for lunch ashore or return to the ship.
This afternoon, take part in a traditional tea ceremony and then visit the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, whose circular design and light filled galleries showcase a dynamic collection of contemporary works; or join a hands on wagashi workshop to learn how these seasonal sweets are crafted, followed by an introduction to local arts and crafts traditions. Depart in the early evening.
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day 5
Shakaiminato for Matsue
Arrive in Matsue and choose your morning adventure: visit the Adachi Museum of Art, famous for its exceptional Japanese gardens and collection of modern Japanese paintings, or explore Matsue Castle, one of Japan’s few remaining original castles, and enjoy free time wandering the charming Samurai Quarter with its traditional streets and historic homes. In the afternoon, relax at sea while attending Lectures #2 and #3.
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day 6
Ulsan/Gyeongju South Korea
Spend a full day in Gyeongju, the ancient capital of Korea’s Silla Kingdom, uncovering its remarkable history and culture. Begin with the Flying Horse Tomb, famed for its intricate carvings, then explore the National Museum to view treasures from Korea’s past. Enjoy a traditional Korean lunch before visiting the UNESCO-listed Bulguksa Temple, a stunning example of Buddhist architecture, and experience local cultural entertainment. Attend Lecture #4 during the day.
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day 7
Sasebo, Japan
Attend Lecture #5 in the morning before heading out to explore this lesser-known corner of Nagasaki Prefecture. Choose between two memorable excursions. Take a scenic cruise aboard the Kujukushima sightseeing boat, weaving through the 208 islands that stretch from Sasebo to Hirado. After your cruise, head up to Tenkaiho Observatory for sweeping views of Sasebo Port and the island-dotted horizon amid spring blooms.
Alternatively, take a short boat ride to the island of Hirado. In April, the terraced rice fields around Kasuga Village are a vibrant green, creating a striking landscape. Once a key center of early European trade and missionary activity, Hirado preserves this history in its churches and cultural landmarks. Visit St. Francis Xavier Memorial Church, which commemorates the introduction of Christianity to the region and blends Western architectural influence with its Japanese setting.
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day 8
Shimonoseki
Begin the morning with Lecture #6, followed by a visit to the TOTO Museum to explore the history and innovations behind one of Japan’s most iconic companies. Continue to the Mojiko Retro Area, a historic port district known for its preserved early 20th-century architecture and charming streets. In the afternoon, choose your excursion: explore Kokura Castle and its scenic gardens, or venture into the Akiyoshido Limestone Cave, one of Japan’s largest cave systems, famous for its dramatic stalactites and stalagmites. This evening, settle in for Lecture #7.
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day 9
Kure/ Miyajima
This morning, arrive in Kure and enjoy a 45-minute scenic transfer to Hiroshima. Upon arrival, visit Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, where thoughtfully curated exhibits and memorials provide meaningful context for the events of 1945 and the city’s ongoing commitment to peace. Pause at the Atomic Bomb Dome, preserved as a powerful symbol of resilience, and place paper cranes at the Children’s Peace Monument in remembrance of those who were lost and in quiet reflection on a more hopeful future. After lunch on board, continue to Miyajima by zodiacs, one of Japan’s most celebrated scenic islands, where you can explore the iconic Itsukushima Shinto Shrine, renowned for its “floating” torii gate that rises from the water at high tide. Enjoy some free time to stroll through the charming streets, browse local shops, and soak in the island’s natural beauty. Return to the ship and then spend the late afternoon relaxing or taking in the stunning coastal scenery as you cruise the Inland Sea, with its picturesque islands and tranquil waters.
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day 10
Naoshima
Spend the morning on Naoshima Island, touring the remarkable Chichu Art Museum, the contemporary Benesse House Museum, and the innovative Naoshima New Museum of Art. Enjoy a guest lecture by acclaimed author Pico Iyer, offering insights and reflections on art and culture. In the afternoon, join your fellow travelers for the Captain’s Farewell Dinner.
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day 11
Kobe/Return to the U.S.
Disembark in Kobe; group transfer(s) to Osaka Itami Airport (ITM) in Osaka for flights home (OR Optional Extension to Nara and Kyoto).
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