Busan
Cruising At Sea
Hiroshima
Kobe
Miyajima Island
Kanmon Straits
Takamatsu
Kyoto
Sakaiminato
Sakaiminato
Overview
Your voyage begins in endearing Kobe, one of the first Japanese ports to open to international trade in the 19th century and home to its famous eponymous marbled beef. Arrive in the port of Takamatsu, the largest city on the island of Shikoku. You will find the splendid Ritsurin Garden here, a masterpiece constructed during the early Edo period as an escape from the bustle of daily life. Takamatsu is also renowned for its most famous dish - udon noodles - and you can try your hand at preparing them here. Continue to Hiroshima, whose UNESCO World Heritage-listed Hiroshima Peace Memorial bears witness to the horrific aftermath of the world's first atomic bomb explosion on August 6, 1945.
You may also choose to visit the Saijo sake brewing district for a tasting. Then call at Miyajima, the gateway to the majestic Itsukushima Shinto Shrine, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, whose magnificent vermillion torii gate appears to float on water. Le Soléal sails on to Hagi, whose contributions to Japan's industrialization and modernization have been honored by UNESCO. At Hagi Castle Town, walk in the steps of the samurai as you stroll its beautifully preserved streets.
The richness from which to choose is immediately apparent in, Sakaiminato, where options include Matsue Castle, built entirely of pine in 1611; the Adachi Museum of Art, displaying the great masters of modern Japanese painting and sculpture; a demonstration of the ancient craft of making paper (washi) from tree bark; and Yushien Garden, a landscape garden in traditional style, famous for its peonies.
The South Korean port of Busan offers a similar range of experiences: Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, built in 1376 overlooking the sea; the Busan Museum of Art, featuring an outdoor sculpture garden as well as exhibits of contemporary Korean artists; Gyeongju Historic Areas, designated a UNESCO World Heritage site representing the flowering of Silla culture between the 7th and 10th centuries; and a Korean Tea Ceremony at the Hongbeopsa Temple, famous for having the largest Buddha statue in Asia.
Back in Japan, call in Moji, which enjoyed its heyday in the early 20th century as the center for Japanese trade with China. Nearby is Kozan-ji Temple, founded in the Kamakura period and the oldest Zen style temple in Japan. From the port of Uno, end your voyage in the small Japanese city of Tamano, a former feudal domain with a unique cultural heritage. From here you will be able to admire the famous Korakuen Garden, one of the country's must-see landscaped gardens. Your voyage ends upon your return to Kobe.
Cruise Itinerary
Kyoto, Japan's former imperial capital, is renowned for its classical temples, traditional wooden houses, and beautiful gardens. Begin your exploration at Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of red torii gates. Next, head to Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, a stunning Zen temple whose top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf.
For a taste of traditional culture, visit the Gion district, where you might glimpse geishas in their exquisite kimonos. Don’t forget to indulge in Kyoto’s renowned cuisine, including matcha-flavored treats and kaiseki, a multi-course dining experience.
Kobe is a maritime gateway to one of Japan's most metropolitan cities. Mt. Rokko dominates the skyline - from the summit, you can glimpse one of the best views in all Japan. Of course, Kobe's also famous for breeding Wagyu cows that produce some of the highest-quality beef in the world!
Top Things to Do in Kobe:
- visit historic Himeji Castle, a huge edifice built entirely of wood and tiles
- enjoy a hot spring bath in Arima Onsen
- hang out with the locals at Nankingmachi Square, home to street-style Kobe beef à la carte
Takamatsu, the serene gateway to Shikoku Island, Japan, invites visitors to explore its lush Ritsurin Garden, a landscape masterpiece with six ponds and thirteen hills designed during the Edo Period. The garden's tranquility contrasts with the bustling Tamamo Park, home to the historical Takamatsu Castle, which uniquely utilizes seawater in its moat.
Delve into the culinary heart of Takamatsu at one of its udon noodle shops, celebrated for their distinctive Sanuki Udon. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the city's proximity to Naoshima Island, known for its modern art museums and installations, easily accessible for a fulfilling day trip. Takamatsu offers a blend of cultural experiences and scenic beauty, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in authentic Japanese culture.
Love Sabatini’s? (Or really good Italian dinners?) You’ll be happy to hear this popular specialty restaurant has returned to its roots. Think traditional Italian comfort cuisine. Our new menu embraces the old: tried-and-true family recipes our chefs brought with them from Italy, plus exquisite Italian wines and cocktails. You can even enjoy some shareable plates exclusively at Sabatini’s Trattoria.
The unforgettable city that was the first ever target of an atomic bomb, Hiroshima has emerged from its tragedy as a vibrant and thriving community. Now known as the 'City of Peace', it is a bustling metropolis dotted with leafy parks, ancient shrines and traditional castles standing next to modern skyscrapers. Ships will dock at the Port of Hiroshima.
Top Things to Do in Hiroshima:
- walk through the Peach Memorial Park
- visit the UNESCO site, Itsukushima Shrine
- explore the Mazda Museum
- admire the Hiroshima Castle and Gardens
Miyajima Island, also known as Itsukushima, is a serene destination in Japan renowned for its iconic floating torii gate and scenic beauty. The island's Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site, appears to float on water during high tide, creating a mesmerizing sight. The shrine and its torii gate are among Japan's most photographed landmarks.
Miyajima is also home to lush forests and hiking trails, with Mount Misen offering panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea. The island is inhabited by friendly deer that roam freely. Visitors can enjoy local delicacies like grilled oysters and momiji manju, a sweet maple-leaf-shaped pastry.
The Kanmon Straits, a narrow passage between Japan's Honshu and Kyushu islands are steeped in history and natural beauty. This strategic waterway, bridged overhead and tunneled beneath, connects the Sea of Japan with the Inland Sea. Some 700 ships pass through it on a daily basis and underground tunnels allow both cars and pedestrians to walk between the two ports. Japan’s largest fireworks display also takes place over the strait every August, drawing more than a million sky gazers to watch the spectacular.
The strait has long played an important role in Japanese maritime history; the Shimonoseki Campaign - a series of military engagements with the US and other navies that took place here in the 1860s - ended Japanese feudal rule over the region, thus opening Japan to the West and transforming it into an international trading hub.
In the south of Honshu island, surrounded by mountains, Hagi is a city of water. For good reason; it was built on the delta of the Abu-gawa river. Its castle was built in the 17th century and its outer walls remain in the lovely Shizuki Park. The old town was one of the cradles of the Meiji revolution.
You will discover its rich past in streets lined with old houses and samurai manors, or within the walls of the many museums and Hagi-yaki ceramics workshops.
Sakaiminato, nestled on the western tip of Japan's Tottori Prefecture, serves as a gateway to the enchanting world of Japanese folklore and seafood delicacies. The city is renowned for its association with Mizuki Shigeru, the celebrated manga artist behind "GeGeGe no Kitaro," which is vividly brought to life along the Mizuki Shigeru Road, adorned with over 100 bronze statues of the series' characters.
For culinary adventurers, the Sakaiminato Fish Market offers a fresh glimpse into Japan's vibrant seafood culture, with opportunities to savor local specialties like crab and squid. Nearby, the Adachi Museum of Art, famous for its stunning Japanese gardens and impressive collection of contemporary Japanese paintings, offers a serene retreat for art lovers
Known for its beaches, mountains and temples, Busan is a large port city in South Korea. Enjoy the Haeundae Beach with its Sea Life Aquarium and Folk Square with traditional games such as tug-of-war or head to Gwangalli Beach for bars and views of modern Diamond Bridge.
Top Things to Do in Busan:
- Shop at Centum Shinsegae Department Store; the world’s largest!
- Enjoy the street art and food on a walking tour of the pastel-coloured Gamcheon Village.
- Explore Haedong Yonggungsa Temple and grounds, located at the top of a huge rock rising from the ocean
- Visit the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage area Gyeongju, south east of the city.
Kitakyushu, located on Japan's Kyushu Island, is a vibrant city known for its industrial heritage and scenic beauty. The city boasts the impressive Kokura Castle, a beautifully reconstructed feudal castle surrounded by lush gardens and a tranquil moat. Nearby, the Riverwalk Kitakyushu complex offers shopping, dining, and cultural experiences with views of the Murasaki River.
Kitakyushu is also home to the Mojiko Retro District, a charming area with preserved early 20th-century buildings, museums, and waterfront promenades. The city’s green spaces, such as the Kawachi Fujien Wisteria Garden, famous for its stunning wisteria tunnels, provide a peaceful retreat. With its mix of historical sites, modern amenities, and natural beauty, Kitakyushu offers a diverse range of attractions for visitors.
Kyoto, Japan's former imperial capital, is renowned for its classical temples, traditional wooden houses, and beautiful gardens. Begin your exploration at Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of red torii gates. Next, head to Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, a stunning Zen temple whose top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf.
For a taste of traditional culture, visit the Gion district, where you might glimpse geishas in their exquisite kimonos. Don’t forget to indulge in Kyoto’s renowned cuisine, including matcha-flavored treats and kaiseki, a multi-course dining experience.
Kobe is a maritime gateway to one of Japan's most metropolitan cities. Mt. Rokko dominates the skyline - from the summit, you can glimpse one of the best views in all Japan. Of course, Kobe's also famous for breeding Wagyu cows that produce some of the highest-quality beef in the world!
Top Things to Do in Kobe:
- visit historic Himeji Castle, a huge edifice built entirely of wood and tiles
- enjoy a hot spring bath in Arima Onsen
- hang out with the locals at Nankingmachi Square, home to street-style Kobe beef à la carte
Life Onboard Le Soleal
When you take a voyage on Le Soleal you will enjoy mega yacht luxury as you explore the world. Read more
Relax in spohisticated chic with luxury amenities in your ocean facing accommodation. Read more
Savour every morsel of the French cuisine you will enjoy in the main restaurant or al fresco grill. Read more
Bask in the sun on the pool deck, recharge in the fitness centre or relax at the spa. Read more
No matter where you cruise on the seven seas Ponant's French crew will impress. Read more
Slip into the soothing warmth of your private aromatherapy bath in the Wellness Spa. Read more
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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.
