Lindblad Expeditions announced that it will explore the region of Japan on a couple of new adventurous itineraries in 2021.
Scheduled aboard the 102-passenger National Geographic Orion, the inaugural voyages mark Lindblad’s first visit to Japan and promise exceptional experiences.
Only 400 of the nearly 7,000 islands of Japan are inhabited, and Lindblad Expeditions will take travellers beyond the populous borders of Honshu.
With the line's state-of-the-art NatGeo Orion ship as a base, plus the company of historians, cultural specialists, and the best expedition team, the two extraordinary adventures provide an incomparable way to discover an inspiring part of the world.
Highlights of the new voyages include:
- 14 nights/16 days Coastal Japan: Imperial Dynasties and Modern Culture (September 15, 2021). Guests can step back in time on a cruise into Japan’s riveting history, from the castle towns of the Edo period to the merchant districts and shrines of the Meiji era to the World War II poignant sites. Trace Honshu shores and the islands of Seto Inland Sea, venture into the homes of feudal lords and samurai, and discover exquisite centuries-old gardens of Sengan-en, Kenroku-en, and Koraku-en. Passengers also have the chance to get inspired on the art-filled Naoshima island and visit studios and museums dedicated to traditional handicrafts and artists in Matsue and on Shikoku. Take a detour to South Korea and spend a day exploring the cultural legacy of Korea’s Silla Dynasty. Fares start at US$20,800 per person based on double occupancy in a category one cabin.
- 13 nights/15 days Sailing the East China Sea: Japan, Okinawa, And Taiwan (September 28, 2021). Island-hopping their way from Japan to Taiwan, passengers can experience a variety of historic sites, cultural treasures, and natural wonders along the way. Experience Himeji Castle and the merchant towns of Ozu and Uchiko along with the “floating” torii gate at Miyajima. Explore Naoshima island transformed by art and architecture, and visit the popular culinary hub of Shodoshima. Snorkel Kerama Island's coral reefs and venture into the mangrove forests of Yaeyama Islands by kayak or Zodiac. Hike among cedar trees in Yakushima’s rainforest and admire the hoodoo spires in Taiwan’s Yehliu Geopark. Fares start at US$19,320 per person based on double occupancy in a category one cabin.