Japan Expeditions

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Samurai, shrines & surprising wildness

Japan is imbued with an allure that has inspired for centuries. Now for the first time ever we’re venturing to this fascinating region—on two new adventurous itineraries. Roam shores brimming with temples, teahouses, and ancient traditions; discover a seldom-seen wild side on subtropical islands where azure waters meet verdant forests; plus, get a taste of Taiwan and Korea too. First impressions are everything—join us aboard National Geographic Resolution on these pioneering inaugural itineraries.

NOTE: For expeditions departing April 2024 onward, Day 1 of our itineraries will no longer reflect “departure from the U.S.” and will reflect “arrival to the city” where your expedition begins. Durations of expeditions will remain unchanged. More details.

Alaska

Japan

New and Noteworthy

Asia

New A Journey from Nome to Tokyo: Ring of Fire to Ainu Culture

Duration

20 days

Aug

From

$30,853

Prices are per person

Highlights

Alaska

Japan

New and Noteworthy

Asia

New A Journey from Nome to Tokyo: Ring of Fire to Ainu Culture

Duration

20 days

Aug

From

$30,853

Top Highlights

Watch for a profusion of rare wildlife in Alaska’s Pribilof and Aleutian Islands: from whiskered auklets and northern fur seals to Steller’s sea eagles and brown bears
Search for the sacred red-crowned crane on a visit to the wetlands of Kushiro in Hokkaido
Learn about the culture of Hokkaido’s indigenous Ainu people on visits to a village and a living history museum

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Special Offers

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Japan

Asia

New Coastal Japan: Imperial Dynasties and Modern Culture

Duration

15 days

Sep

From

$28,057

Prices are per person

Highlights

Japan

Asia

New Coastal Japan: Imperial Dynasties and Modern Culture

Duration

15 days

Sep

From

$28,057

Top Highlights

Delve into the history of the samurai and their feudal lords while visiting castles and samurai districts in Kanazawa, Matsue, and Uwajima
Explore the cultural legacy of Korea’s Silla Dynasty among the ancient ruins of Gyeongju, a UNESCO World Heritage site
Get inspired on the art-filled island of Naoshima, and visit museums and studios dedicated to artists and traditional handicrafts in Matsue and Takamatsu

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Special Offers

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Vietnam & Cambodia aboard The Jahan

Special Ships

Asia

Sailing Vietnam and Cambodia’s Mekong River Aboard The Jahan

Duration

13 days

Jan
Feb

From

$14,992

Prices are per person

Highlights

Vietnam & Cambodia aboard The Jahan

Special Ships

Asia

Sailing Vietnam and Cambodia’s Mekong River Aboard The Jahan

Duration

13 days

Jan
Feb

From

$14,992

Top Highlights

Sail the Mekong River in comfort on a seven-night journey aboard The Jahan riverboat
Spend two days exploring the legendary religious sites of Angkor in the company of our experts and local guides
Visit communities and learn the ways of life along the Mekong River, including subsistence fishing and small industries

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Special Offers

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Expedition Highlights

Contrast the brightly lit metropolis of Tokyo with the narrow, winding streets of Kanazawa’s well-preserved samurai districts. Discover fascinating tales of feudal lords while visiting their castles, shrines, and gardens. And see firsthand how the Japanese have elevated everyday rituals—tea, sake, kimonos, sushi, floral arranging—into spectacular art forms. Only 400 of Japan’s nearly 7,000 islands are inhabited. Our explorations also take us beyond the populous borders of Honshu into wilder realms. Or snorkel through crystal waters that are home to sea turtles, manta rays, and the elusive Okinawa dugong. In Taiwan’s Yehliu Geopark, witness incredible hoodoo spires.

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Life On Board

It is a privilege to visit Japan, a richly diverse and culturally fascinating geography. And to the privilege of cruising these islands, National Geographic Resolution adds the luxury of comfort—a quality of shipboard life and a philosophy of wellness designed to relax and revitalize body, mind, and spirit.

Expedition Spotlight: Japan, A Travel Photographer's Paradise

In this episode of Expedition Spotlight, Certified Photo Instructor and Naturalist David Cothran shares the inspired photo ops that abound in this beautiful island nation and how he helps guests realize their vision of Japan through composition, light, and storytelling.

Exploring Japan by Sea: From Matsue to Okinawa & Beyond

From the earliest explorers to Shōgun fans, and beyond, Western travelers have long known that the island nation of Japan is best explored by sea.

Why Japan Should Be Your Next Snorkel Destination

Made up of nearly 7,000 islands, Japan may be one of the most underrated snorkel spots around.

The History Behind Japan’s Most Beautiful Landscape Gardens

Japan's daimyo gardens have been open to the public since the end of the feudal era in the 19th century and have been exceedingly well-preserved, transporting travelers not only to a place of calm introspection but back centuries in time.

Ready for the adventure of a lifetime?

1.800.397.3348

1.800.397.3348

Introducing Japan

I came here having no idea what to expect, but it’s just been magical. The food, the scenery, the people, the wildlife, all of it.

Ken C.

Expedition Leader

Explore with a veteran expedition leader—the orchestrator of your experience. Many have advanced degrees and have conducted research or taught for years. They have achieved expedition leader status because they possess the skills, experience, and the depth of knowledge necessary to continually craft the best expedition possible for our guests.

Cultural Specialist

Contemporary art and age-old religion, stunning architecture and iconic shrines, complex history and unique culture. Japan has captivated the imaginations of Westerners for eons. On our Far East itineraries, you’ll travel with passionate experts—a cultural specialist, a historian, and local guides—who will illuminate every facet to give you an intimate perspective on this distant land.

Naturalist

Sail with a team of four naturalists, each of whom is passionate about the geographies they explore (and return to regularly) and who help illuminate each facet through their enthusiasm and knowledge. Choose to spend time with whoever shares your interests in birding, human history, flora and fauna, and so much more.

1.800.397.3348

Joining us on this expedition means signing up for adventure; and the reward for your curiosity is inevitable—the most exhilarating experience of pure discovery possible.

Sven-Olof Lindblad

1.800.397.3348

1.800.397.3348

Daily Expedition Reports

Daily Expedition Reports

10/9/2024

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National Geographic Orion

Day at Sea – Papua New Guinea to Solomon Islands

Today we crossed the Pacific Ocean between Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands on National Geographic Orion . The swells were crashing over the bow as we bounced from crest to crest. It’s a sea day and the last before we end this great voyage in Honiara, Solomon Islands. The guests were entertained throughout the day with presentations from our expedition experts, a galley visit, and most especially, the team from the galley prepared amazing cuisine to enjoy. It was with mixed feelings we came to the end of this fantastic voyage because National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions won’t be returning to this region for the foreseeable future. The many memories, cultures, and community connections we made over the years has been special and will be missed. Cheers! Tua Pittman, Cultural Navigator

Daily Expedition Reports

10/8/2024

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National Geographic Orion

Samarai Island, Papua New Guinea

Kia Orana Everyone! Today, we had the privilege of visiting the island of Samarai, overwhelmed by its beauty, culture, and the warmth of the people. The moment we stepped ashore, we were greeted with vibrant smiles, warrior chants and the rhythmic sounds of the local music, setting the tone for the entire experience. The islanders had set up small stalls, proudly displaying intricately carved wooden sculptures, each piece telling a story. It was amazing to see the craftsmanship and the effort that went into each item. Following this, we returned to National Geographic Orion for lunch before embarking on another exciting afternoon. Highlights included a hands-on weaving workshop with Kura, and for those in a competitive spirit, the day concluded with a fun and lively “Big Fat Pub Quiz,” testing our knowledge and teamwork. This was accompanied by a festive cocktail hour. It was an amazing day that left us with a deep admiration for the island and its people! Photo caption and credit: Paola trying on a mask on the island of Samarai. Photo by Kura Happ

Daily Expedition Reports

10/7/2024

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National Geographic Orion

At Sea

We are incredibly lucky to have the team from Woodland Zoo onboard for this voyage as they have close ties to the villages of Papua New Guinea. Today, Guest Speaker Dr. Lisa Dabek, Senior Director of the Tree Conservation Program, shared with us her experiences in saving the Matschie’s Tree Kangaroo found on the Huon Peninsula. We learned about the tree kangaroos’ feeding and breeding behaviors and the great work they are doing in saving these unique marsupials. Naturalist Heather then took us on a journey into the very misunderstood world of insects and arachnids in her presentation, “Leaving a legacy when you are less than an inch tall.” After a delicious lunch prepared by our gourmet chefs, our knowledge of the undersea world was then broadened with Undersea Specialist Brett taking us on a deep dive into the darkness of the big blue, shining a light on the creatures that live within its depths. Our sea day of learning was then finished off with Guest Speaker Nancy Philips’ presentation, looking at the intersect of human health and the health of the surrounding environment in a sensitive and developing nation. During cocktail hour our onboard National Geographic Photographer Krista and Photo Instructor Fiona held a photo feedback session for those wanting to sharpen their photography and editing skills. It was a very full and satisfying day at sea on board National Geographic Orion.

Daily Expedition Reports

10/6/2024

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National Geographic Orion

Torres Strait, Papua New Guinea

This morning, National Geographic Orion cruised through the shallow waters of the Torres Strait, its gentle swell soothingly rocking our vessel. It was a peaceful start to the day as we sailed in these remarkable waters. Adam and Brett, two of our dedicated expedition team members, led an engaging session on coral reefs and oceanography. Their insights into the intricate ecosystems beneath us deepened our appreciation of the vibrant marine world surrounding us. Later, Cultural Navigator Tua captivated us with stories from his experiences aboard traditional voyaging canoes. His tales of seafaring heritage brought the rich culture of these waters to life, leaving us in awe of the deep connections between people and the ocean. As the day came to a close, the crew delighted us with the much-anticipated world-famous crew show. The talented members of our team showcased their incredible musical skills, filling the night with singing, dancing, and laughter. The joy was contagious, creating a perfect end to a memorable day on board.

Daily Expedition Reports

10/5/2024

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National Geographic Orion

Day at Sea: Arafura Sea

Today we continued our voyage away from the Asmat region of West Papua and spent the day at the discretion of the Arafura Sea. Both, winds and the surface sea conditions picked up early in the morning, which made for a rhythmic and relaxed rocking of the ship. Given we crossed a time zone ahead and would have lost an hour’s sleep, the decision to have a delicious brunch served on the outside deck was welcomed and allowed for a proper catch up on well-deserved rest. After brunch, the day consisted of a myriad of presentations including “Chasing the Light” from National Geographic Expert Krista Rossow and “Smartphone Editing” from Certified Photo Instructor Fiona Wardle. We also had a light-hearted “Sketch and Sip” hour where guests and staff alike conversed and challenged their inner artistic talents with cocktails, colors, and canvas.

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Epic Histories & Cultural Treasures 2023-25

Multi

Asia

Epic Histories & Cultural Treasures 2023-25

2023-2025 Voyages

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Epic Voyages 2023-26

Multi

Asia

Epic Voyages 2023-26

2023-2026 Voyages

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Expedition Essentials

Multi

Asia

Expedition Essentials

Zodiac Excursions | Kayaking | Hiking | Photography | Undersea Adventures | Cultural Encounters

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