Amakusa
Jeju Island
Amakusa
Fukuoka
Amakusa
Overview
Providing an unspoiled natural setting for endemic species such as the Yakushima monkey and deer, the island is home to an exceptional natural environment featuring forests of ancient cedars, bewitching waterfalls, and majestic peaks. Your trip will continue in the Koshikijima Islands. Aboard one of our inflatable dinghies, admire the raw and authentic beauty composed of monumental cliffs and huge rock formations dating back to the Cretaceous periodnearly 80 million years ago. You will be captivated by these landscapes unlike any other.
Between the Yatsushiro and Ariake seas, off the coast of Nagasaki, succumb to the charms of the island region of Amakusa, once the refuge of Christians fleeing the ban on Catholicism in the 17th century during the Edo period. In Sakitsu, you will have the privilege of immersing yourself in this ancestral heritage, particularly as you visit the emblematic UNESCO-listed church. Christian heritage can also be found further north, in the Goto Islands, on Kamigoto Island.
Here, each small town bears traces of this influence that is still very much present, as evidenced by the many religious buildings dotting Kamigoto. Further north, between South Korea and Fukuoka Prefecture, in the Tsushima Strait, a little-known island called Iki will reveal itself to you in a glorious setting of rock faces with verdant summits and heavenly beaches of fine sand. Considered one of the cradles of Shinto, the island boasts no fewer than 150 shrines scattered across these sacred and unspoiled lands.
Le Jacques-Cartier will sail westward to the volcanic island of Jeju in South Korea. Dominated by the majestic silhouette of the Hallasan volcano, the country's tallest peak, this nature sanctuary reveals its most beautiful treasures: steep cliffs with emerald and ashen reflections, monumental waterfalls, bewitching virgin forests, long stretches of tea plantations, and more. For the grand finale, your cruise will end in Fukuoka, a modern city with a rich cultural and historical heritage.
Cruise Itinerary
Kagoshima lives in the shadow of Sakurajima, an active volcano that last erupted in 2016. In addition to being the capital of the Kagoshima Prefecture in Japan, the city is home to ancient castles and traditional Japanese Gardens that delight locals and visitors alike.
Top Things to Do in Kagoshima:
- relax at Ibusuki Onsen, the local hot springs
- hike to one of the many volcano observation points
- taking a tour of Shochu Brewery for sake tastings
- enjoy a traditional Japanese tea ceremony
A splendid sub-tropical, mountainous island listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage site, Yakushima is one of the most beautiful islands in the Japanese archipelago. Its extensive yakusugi forest contains some of Japanﾒs oldest living trees ﾖ cedars that are over 1000 metres tall and up to 7,000 years old. The Senpiro and Toroki waterfalls, each one several dozens of metres high, are equally impressive. A feast for the eyes.
Off the western coastlines of Kagoshima Prefecture, the rocky and green islets called the Koshikijima Islands rise like a mirage from the East China Sea. Aboard our Zodiac dinghies, you will reach the three islands that make up the archipelago: Kamikoshikishima, Nakakoshikishima and Shimokoshikishima. You will be captivated by the raw and authentic beauty of this environment, featuring monumental cliffs and huge rock formations that date back to the Cretaceous periodor nearly 80 million years. During hikes, you will be lucky enough to discover these unique and striking landscapes. An interlude where time may stand still.
Amakusa, located in Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan, offers a blend of scenic beauty and historical significance. The islands are known for their connection to the hidden Christian movement during the 17th century, with many hidden Christian sites now recognised as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Visit the Amakusa Christian Museum on Shimoshima Island and the iconic Oe Cathedral, reflecting the area’s religious heritage.
Cruise ships typically dock at Hondo Port, allowing easy access to explore the islands. The area offers breathtaking coastal landscapes and opportunities for dolphin watching, where visitors can observe these graceful creatures in their natural habitat. Enjoy the rich cultural heritage and natural attractions during your port of call in Amakusa.
A lush islet between Fukuoka Bay and the captivating island of Tsushima, Iki is a real paradise on earth. Fall under the spell of this natural and mineral beauty composed of rock faces covered with a verdant coat, small heavenly beaches and granite cliffs in hues of ochre. In addition to showing you its exceptional environment, this timeless journey will take you to discover traditional Japan. Considered one of the cradles of Shintoism, the island boasts no fewer than 150 shrines scattered across these sacred and unspoiled lands.
Often called the 'Island of the Gods,' Jeju island a volcanic island off the coast of South Korea is home to some of the Korean Peninsula's most beautiful natural sites is renowned for its unique natural landscapes, including the Hallasan Mountain, a dormant volcano and the highest peak in South Korea.
The island's diverse attractions range from beautiful beaches like Hyeopjae and Hamdeok, to the mysterious Manjanggul Lava Tube, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Jeju's rich cultural heritage is evident in its local cuisine, traditional Haenyeo (female divers) culture, and folk villages, making it a fascinating destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Known for its ancient temples and beautiful beaches, Fukuoka is the capital of and gateway to Kyushu Island. Boasting Japan’s heady cocktail of hot springs, gourmet food, abundant nature and spiritual history, Kyushu Island has all the advantages of the mainland, while enjoying its own identity. Ships will dock at Hakata Port.
Top Things to Do in Fukuoka:
- admire the 10m Buddha at Tocho-ji Temple
- take the bullet train to visit the Kokura Castle
- enjoy the Fukuoka specialty, Tokotsu Ramen
- go shopping at Canal City Hakata
Life Onboard Le Jacques Cartier
With the hallmarks of Ponant’s elegant decor and chic sophistication, Le Jacques Cartier showcases luxury innovations. Read more
Choose from a range of staterooms and suites, all of which face the ocean with private balconies. Read more
Enjoy indoor and outdoor dining in the main restaurant or casual dining at the grill. Read more
The underwater lounge where you can watch the marine world go by, is a real wow factor. Read more
The innovative marina at the stern of the ship offers easy embarkation and mulitple uses for guests. Read more
Enjoy ocean views from the stern of the ship as you dip in the glass walled infinity pool. Read more
Brochure
Ponant Luxury Expeditions & Yacht-Style Voyages (2024-25)
Availability Click on prices below to view cabin upgrades and details
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Ponant. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Ponant. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
