Secular Treasures in the Land of the Rising Sun

Gastronomic cruise in partnership with Cuisine et Vins de France, the reference magazine for gastronomy. Enigmatic and fascinating, traditional and futuristic, the Empire of the Rising Sun invites you on a timeless journey to where the history of the samurai exists alongside the delicateness of the geishas, and where the aromas of the tea plantations intermingle with the scent of cherry blossoms. In the dynamic and bustling city of Osaka, board Le Soléal for a new 8-day cruise to discover this heritage and these ancestral traditions.

Throughout your journey, you will benefit from an...read more excursion included per person per port of call, to choose from a selection offered by Ponant. During this cruise, visit the Peace Memorial from Hiroshima, discover the Itsukushima Shrine from Miyajima Island, or take in the natural treasures of Uwajima. The diversity of experiences on offer promises you intense and varied moments (to discover the full range of excursions, go to the itinerary tab).

After first calling at Uno, Le Soléal will sail towards the western part of the Seto Inland Sea. Hiroshima remains in the world's imagination as the symbol of the nuclear disaster. Fortunately, like Nagasaki, the city has become one of the archipelago's most peaceful towns and one of its most attractive. Only the Hiroshima Peace Memorial bears witness to the events that occurred in what is now known as "the City of Peace".

The jagged coastlines of the captivating Miyajima Island, also known as Itsukushima, come into view, and the vermillion Torii of the from Miyajima, Shinto Shrine of Itsukushima, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, unfolds before you in a lush forest setting. Le Soléal will set sail, on the island of Honshu, to Hagi, the cradle of the samurai and Hagi ware. This town will win you over with its narrow streets, traditional houses, and the former residences of Japanese warriors from this feudal town, whose mythical Shizuki Castle, erected in the 17th century, emerges as a symbol.

Then you will sail to South Korea, a small peninsula that juts out into the Sea of Japan, and discover Busan, South Korea's second city. A place of great contrasts, Busan offers a spectacular view over its port, as well as over the ancient district of Chalgachi. Back in Japan, you will sail towards the eastern part of the island of Shikoku. After calling at Uwajima,Le Soléal will set a course for the city of Kochi. Succumb to the charms of this city's treasures, including lush vegetation, spellbinding caves, an emblematic castle, and ancestral arts and crafts. Finally, for a grand finale, your journey will end in Kobe, your disembarkation port.