Superior Stateroom Deck 3
20% Ponant Bonus
226 ft²
3
The best of Japan
Osaka - Busan
Dates:
16/03/2026
to
24/03/2026
days
nights on board
Ponant invites you on a timeless journey around the fascinating and surprising Empire of the Rising Sun, where unbridled modernism and ancestral traditions form a delightful blend, where the history of the samurai rubs shoulders with the delicateness of the geisha, and where the aromas of the tea plantations intermingle with the fragrances of cherry blossom. In the legendary city of Osaka, embark on this unique 9-day cruise aboard Le Soléal to discover this unrivalled cultural heritage.
Throughout your journey, you will benefit from an excursion included per person per port of call, to choose from a selection offered by PONANT. During this cruise, explore the picturesque city of Chiran and its ancestral history from Kagoshima, discover the cultural heritage of Nagasaki, or admire the Itsukushima Shrine from the island of Miyajima. The diversity of experiences on offer promises you intense and varied moments (to discover the full range of excursions, go to the itinerary tab).
On the Seto Inland Sea, Le Soléal will head west. At the foot of a tropical forest burgeoning with life, Tamano stands proudly in the middle of this enchanting environment. Last port of call of your journey, it still bears the traces of traditional Japanese life in the 18th century, as the particular architecture of the town demonstrates.
The jagged coastlines of the captivating Miyajima Island, also known as Itsukushima, come into view, and the vermillion Torii of the emblematic Shinto Shrine of Itsukushima, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, unfolds before you in a lush forest setting. Time here seems stuck in the feudal era: the frenetic energy and modernity of the large Japanese metropolises make way for striking serenity and tranquillity, and hundreds of deer wander between its spiritual and architectural treasures.
Hiroshima does not seek to elicit strong emotions. Opposite the Inland Sea, only the Hiroshima Peace Memorial bears witness to past events in the city known as a “City of Peace”. It is resolutely future looking and you will be able to appreciate its modern and cosmopolitan atmosphere, the hustle and bustle of its lively streets and the tranquillity of its natural settings, such as the splendid Shukkei-en, the city’s historic gardens.
Off the southern tip of the island of Kyushu, Yakushima, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, comes into view. Providing an unspoilt 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.
Further south, Nagasaki remains in the world’s imagination as the symbol of nuclear horror. Fortunately, in the same way as Hiroshima, the city has become one the archipelago’s most peaceful towns as well as one of its most attractive. The warm and cosmopolitan city unveils its many riches throughout its narrow streets: the Oura Catholic Church and its gardens, the Suwa Shrine, the sumptuous Buddhist temples...
For a grand finale, your cruise will end in South Korea’s second largest city. A city of contrasts, Busan offers spectacular views of its port and the old Chalgachi district.
Ref : SO160326
Your itinerary
A cruise discovering the Empire of the Rising Sun, its culture, its ancestral traditions, its gastronomic heritage and its emblematic sites. UNESCO World Heritage Sites: The Miyajima Sanctuary and its...
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Your trip in detail
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Choose your stateroom
Complete your trip
Complete your trip
Additional services
For more peace of mind, PONANT selects stays and flights then takes care of your transfers for your trip as well as shore visits before and after the cruise.
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L'AUSTRAL
LE LAPÉROUSE
02/04/2026 to the 12/04/2026
LE CHAMPLAIN
03/12/2025 to the 13/12/2025
LE BORÉAL
14/05/2026 to the 24/05/2026
LE COMMANDANT CHARCOT
*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.
Discover all destinations
Services provided
- 24-hour room service
- Inclusive Wifi internet access (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- Dyptique Paris top-of-the-line bath products
- Minibar
- Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
- Electronic safe
- Direct line telephone
- Bose Bluetooth speaker
- Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
- 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
- Three ADA staterooms
Select your stateroom category
Ideal clothes for life on board:
During the days spent on board, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes or casual outfits. The entire ship is air-conditioned, so a light sweater, a light jacket or a shawl may be necessary. When moving about in the public areas of the ship and the decks, light but comfortable shoes are recommended.
Informal evening:
In the evening, you are advised to wear smart-casual attire, especially when dining in our restaurants where wearing shorts and tee-shirts is not allowed.
For women:
- Simple dress
- Skirt or trousers
- Blouse
- Polo
For men:
- Pleated trousers or chinos
- Sports jacket
- Shirt
- Polo
Officer’s evening:
For all cruises longer than 8 nights, an Officer’s Evening with a white dress code may be organized. Therefore, we encourage you to bring a stylish white outfit for the occasion (otherwise black and white).
Gala evening:
During the cruise, two gala evenings will be organised on board. Thus, we recommend that you bring one or two formal outfits.
For women:
- Cocktail attire
- Evening dress (if you wish to)
For men:
- Dark suit
- Tie recommended, possibly bow tie (if you wish to)
SHOP:
A small shop is available on board offering a wide range of outfits, jewellery, leather goods and many accessories.
A laundry service (washing/ironing) is available on board, but unfortunately there are no dry cleaning services. For safety reasons, your cabin is not equipped with an iron.
ACCESSORIES:
- Polarized sunglasses
- Swimsuit (for the Spa on board)
- Gym wear (fitness)
- Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
- Mobile phone charger
- Hat/cap
HEALTH CARE:
- Sunscreen and after-sun lotion
- Medications and prescriptions
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
- Casual outfits for the day
- Smarter outfits for dinners
- Elegant outfits for Gala evenings
- White or black and white outfit
PRECAUTIONS:
In your hand luggage, remember to bring any medicines that you need, and possibly a small spare bag of toiletries (in case of delay in the delivery of your baggage by the airline). Remember to always have your travel documents with you in case you need them: hotel vouchers, cruise vouchers, return flight tickets... Never leave them in your hold luggage.
All our cabins have a safe. We recommend not to go ashore with valuable jewellery.
PONANT activities
Highlights
- A cruise discovering the Empire of the Rising Sun, its culture, its ancestral traditions, its gastronomic heritage and its emblematic sites.
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: The Miyajima Sanctuary and its vermillion Torii, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, Yakushima.
- A unique stop in Miyazaki, combining rich history and stunning natural scenery.
- Make the most of an excursion included* per person per port of call during your cruise thanks to the selection made by our destination experts.
- Varied landscapes along the Seto Inland Sea, offering stunning contrasts between land and sea.
- The visits to the Peace Memorial and Peace Museum in Nagasaki and Hiroshima, the martyred cities of the Second World War.
- A passionate lecturer on board.
*Pre-bookings open around two months before the start of the cruise; requests are processed on a first-come first-served basis, subject to availability.
Ports of Call & Excursions
16 March 2026 - Osaka
Embarkation 16/03/2026 from 16:00 to 17:00
Departure 16/03/2026 at 20:00
Like its big sister Tokyo, Osaka is the product of ancestral traditions and amazing technological innovations. And despite its size, its location on the Pacific Ocean give it a sense of serenity. The main historic landmark is the 16th century Osaka Castle, which stands proud in the midst of majestic skyscrapers. The lively streets of Dotomburi and the bizarre Shinsekai district attract thousands of locals and visitors. A multitude of restaurants offer menus full of regional specialities: takoyaki, made with octopus, and other succulent dishes such as kushikatsu kebabs.
17 March 2026 - Tamano
Arrival 17/03/2026 early morning
Departure 17/03/2026 evening
Located on the island of Honshu, hugging the banks of the Sento Inland Sea, Tamano is a popular destination thanks to its sun-drenched climate. Upon arrival, marvel at the way in which the city has been built along the coast at the foot of a deep, dark forest. In the area surrounding Tamano, stroll down the streets of Kurashiki, known as the 'white-walled city' in a nod to the pretty façades of the houses that line the streets of this ancient Edo-period trading town. Another major regional attraction is the Seto Ohashi bridge. Its 12.5 kilometres make it the world's longest double-decker bridge.
18 March 2026 - Miyajima Island
Arrival 18/03/2026 early morning
Departure 18/03/2026 midday
At the heart of the Inland Sea, Miyajima, the “island sanctuary” will reveal its treasures. In the background you will see the Shinto Grand Sanctuary, whose entrance is guarded by a magnificent vermillion “Torii“. Considered to be one of the most beautiful sites in the Japanese islands, you will be transported by the unique character and the serenity of this sacred site.
18 March 2026 - Hiroshima
Arrival 18/03/2026 early afternoon
Departure 18/03/2026 evening
Visiting Hiroshima is a moving experience. The town spreads along Honshu Island, along the inside coasts of Seto. While firmly focused on the future, Hiroshima doesn't forget its past, and a visit to the Peace Memorial Park and Genbaku Dome is a must. You'll enjoy the city's modern, cosmopolitan atmosphere and effervescent nightlife just as much as the peaceful stillness of its natural parkland areas such as splendid Shukkei-en, the town's historic garden.
19 March 2026 - Beppu, Oita
Arrival 19/03/2026 early morning
Departure 19/03/2026 evening
A favourite destination for the Japanese, Beppu is now famous throughout the Japanese archipelago thanks to its onsen – volcanic hot springs in which people immerse themselves to relax with family or friends. From Beppu, you will set off to discover a lush, peaceful valley in which sit 60 majestic stone Buddhas carved out of the cliff face between the 12th and 14th centuries. Exuding a soothing air of serenity, the Mangetsuji site seems to have drifted off to sleep in the heart of a dense bamboo forest surrounded by rice fields. Recognised as a National Treasure of Japan, this set of sacred sculptures offers travellers a unique, wonderful experience.
20 March 2026 - Miyazaki
Arrival 20/03/2026 early morning
Departure 20/03/2026 early evening
The cradle of Japanese mythology, Miyazaki is a hidden treasure on the southern coast of Kyūshū. Known for its climate, its golden beaches and its spectacular rocky formations, it is an invitation to exploration and contemplation. In the heart of the city, the Miyazaki-jingū Shinto shrine stands majestically, surrounded by ancient forests and peaceful gardens, in which an atmosphere of serenity reigns. Make the most of the authenticity of this city with fascinating local culture and, during the visit of the Miyazaki Shrine, fall under the spell of the kagura, a dance and song performance by the shrine’s priests and helpers.
21 March 2026 - Kagoshima
Arrival 21/03/2026 early morning
Departure 21/03/2026 evening
The seaside city of Kagoshima, at the south of Kyushu Island, ﾠis best known for Sakurajima, an active volcano that faces Kinko Bay. A visit to this busy metropolis will remind you just how much the volcano is part of the inhabitants' everyday life: in the wake of the almost daily eruptions, a delicate layer of ash settles on everything. The top of a buried torii (traditional Japanese gate) measuring three metres that was 'swallowed up' by a giant lava flow in 1914 can still be seen. The power of nature will send a shiver down your spine.
22 March 2026 - Yakushima
Arrival 22/03/2026 early morning
Departure 22/03/2026 mid afternoon
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.
23 March 2026 - Nagasaki
Arrival 23/03/2026 early morning
Departure 23/03/2026 mid afternoon
Located on the north-west coast of Kyushu, Nagasaki will impress you by its rich heritage. Despite the destruction in 1945, you can visit several ancient sites, including the beautiful 19th-century Catholic Church of Oura and its garden, the sanctuary of Suwa Shrine or several Buddhist temples. A visit to the Atomic Bomb Museum gives you insight into the extent of the damage caused by the nuclear attack. Close by, a walk in the Memorial Peace Park leads you to a collection of objets d'art offered as a gift from Japan to the world.
24 March 2026 - Busan
Arrival 24/03/2026 early morning
Disembarkation 24/03/2026 at 08:00
With around four million inhabitants, Busan is the second largest metropolis on South Korea, after Seoul. This dynamic harbour city, located in the south-east, surrounded by the warm waters of the Sea of Japan, benefits from a mild, pleasant climate. You’ll find delightful simply to stroll around the lively streets and explore the city’s outstanding cultural heritage of art galleries, museums, and Buddhist sites, such as the Haedong Yonggungsa temple, which elegantly sits on the waterfront. Rich too in magnificent beaches and superlative natural landscapes, Busan’s peaceful atmosphere will win you over, as will its inhabitants, whom you’ll have the pleasure of meeting.
Le Soléal
Like Le Boréal and L’Austral, the two sister ships that preceded it, Le Soléal further reaffirms PONANT's signature approach: to take passengers to the farthest reaches of the planet onboard modern ships offering top-of-the-range services.
An elegant appearance and refined interior design combine with cutting-edge technology to offer a new type of cruising: adventure in a luxury setting.
Decks
Guest Speaker
Aboard your ship, an English-speaking lecturer will enlighten you about the culture and history of your destination to deepen your knowledge of the origins of local traditions, the history of emblematic sites, and stories involving famous personalities and those of major historical significance. During on-board lectures or on your shore visits, this expert will be there to share their precious knowledge with you throughout your PONANT cruise.
Timeless
With one included excursion per day and per guest, and the presence of expert lecturers on board, Timeless Explorations blend cultural curiosity, immersive experiences, and serene relaxation. A refined way to journey far from the everyday, both in mind and in spirit.
- Activities: One included excursion per day and per guest. Optional paid excursions are also available depending on the port of call.
- Landings (depending on the destination): By dock, tender boat, or aboard local vessels.
- Your experts on board: The dedicated excursion team and one or more guest lecturers.
- Children: Children from one year of age are welcome on board (from 8 years old on board Le Commandant Charcot).
The full program of all excursions, both included and optional, is available eight months prior to departure. Reservations open approximately two months before departure.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
KYOTO AND NARA, IMPERIAL HERITAGE (4 NIGHTS)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Take advantage of four unforgettable days between Kyoto and Nara to discover the ancient imperial capitals. Immerse yourself in traditional Japan, between temples, meditation, Geisha dances and tea ceremony. This programme, rich in experience, will be the perfect prelude to your embarkation.
Day 1 - Osaka/Kyoto
Meet at Kansai International airport. You will be greeted by our local representative off your flight provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent.
Transfer from the airport to the Good Nature Kyoto 4* hotel selected by PONANT.
Lunch, afternoon, and dinner at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2 - Kyoto
Breakfast.
The tour will take you first to take part in Zazen, seated Zen meditation. Zazen is a way of training for monks to obtain enlightenment. It is considered the heart of Zen Buddhist practice. You will sit in the silent room separated from the ordinary life. Also, you will have a chance to experience Japanese tea ceremony. The tea ceremony is one of the most representative forms of Japanese beauty, and participating in a ceremony is one of the best ways to come into contact with the Japanese sense of spirituality.
Lunch will be served in a local restaurant.
Then, you will proceed to Kiyomizu Temple; kiyoi mizu means "pure water" or "spring water". Kiyomizu Temple is noted for its cliff top Main Hall with a broad wooden veranda offering a panoramic view of Kyoto and environs. The veranda is supported on a towering scaffold of wood. The Main Hall has been designated a National Treasure.
Enjoy some time at leisure to purchase souvenirs in the nearby shopping streets.
After your visit, you will return to your hotel to freshen up.
Before your transfer to enjoy a Japanese kaiseki dinner (consisting up of several small courses), you will stop in Gion, one of Kyoto's historic districts, with beautiful traditional houses. It is the city's Geiko district (geisha are known as Geiko in Kyoto).
Enjoy a Kaiseki dinner which is a traditional multi-course Japanese dinner, with a Maiko (an apprentice geisha in Kyoto) and a Geiko (a full-fledged artist known as Geisha outside of Japan) who will perform.
You will then be transferred back to your hotel.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 3 - Kyoto
Breakfast.
You will start your day with an immersion in Japanese tradition. Through the transcendent thumping rhythms, you will discover the art of the taiko, the large drum sculpted from elm or keyaki (zelkova or Japanese elm) wood. The word "taiko" also designates the way of playing the drum, meaning that the instrument and the way of playing its music are thus inextricably linked. Legend has it that the divinity of mirth, Uzume, helped the gods bring light to earth by drawing the goddess of sun, Amaterasu, out of her cave. To do this, she danced on a barrel, thus creating the taiko.
Then, you will enjoy Japanese calligraphy, considered the art of achieving longevity and mastery of body and mind. Buddhist monks use calligraphy as a form of meditation. Dressed in kimono, symbol of Japanese culture.
You will also wear the traditional kimono, with movements carefully and meticulously orchestrated, reflecting the beauty and harmony of ancient Japan.
Enjoy a lunch in a local restaurant.
Then, you will proceed to Arashiyama region, located on the western outskirts of Kyoto, and the Tenryuji Temple, founded by Ashikaga Takauji in 1339. As a temple related to both the Ashikaga family and Emperor Godaigo, the temple is held in high esteem. Stroll through the 14th Century landscape garden, featuring Ryumon Falls and a stone bridge. This garden is part of part of the « Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto » and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Legend has it that if one day a fish were to swim up the Ryumon Falls, it would turn into a dragon. Enjoy a stroll through the bamboo groves, a natural beauty that is one of the region's main attractions.
Transfer back to your hotel for a short break to freshen up.
Enjoy a Japanese Shabu-shabu dinner served in a local restaurant. For your meal, a pot of boiling water to cook food will be placed on your table. You will dip thin slices of beef and fresh vegetables into a pot of broth several times for few seconds. "Shabu-shabu" is the sound of the meat swished in the broth.
You will then be transferred back to your hotel.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 4 - Kyoto
Breakfast.
The tour will take you first to Kinkakuji Temple, or the Temple of the Golden Pavilion. It is a temple dedicated to the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy. Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, the third of the Ashikaga Shoguns, built a retirement estate there in 1398. After his death in 1419, the grounds were turned into a Buddhist temple for the Rinzai sect. The only building to remain standing of Yoshimitsu's estate was the Golden Pavilion. The upper stories are covered in gold leaf and the roof is topped by a bronze phoenix. It was listed on UNESCO's World Heritage List in 1994.
You will then arrive at Ryoan-ji Temple, literally "The Temple of the Dragon at Peace". It belongs to the Myoshin-ji school of the Rinzai branch of Zen Buddhism. The name of the temple evokes its famous 15th-century rock garden, considered one of the masterpieces of Japanese Zen culture. It is the country's most-visited rock garden.
A lunch will be served in a local restaurant.
Optional activity - additional supplement: "Fushimi-inari Shrine and dinner" - limited to 35 participants.
Dinner will be at leisure if you have not chosen the optional activity.
For an even more exclusive and unique experience, we also offer the optional package as an additional supplement.
You will arrive at Fushimi-Inari Shrine. This is the site where you can see hundreds of vermillion torii gates lining up, making a tunnel, one of the most iconic views in the country. Fushimi-Inari is the head shrine of some 40,000 Inari shrines located throughout the land. It was founded in 711 and is dedicated to five Shinto deities.
Then, you will be transferred to a restaurant for your dinner.
You will be drive back to your hotel.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 5 - Kyoto/Nara/Osaka
Breakfast before check-out.
To start your day, you will set off to meet the monumental bronze Buddha, who takes centre stage in the heart of the Todai-ji Temple. The building rises majestically in Nara Park. Commissioned in 743 by Emperor Shômu when Nara was the imperial capital of Japan, it took eight years to build and was restored during the Edo era. Standing 47 metres (150 feet) high and with enormous wooden pillars , the ancestral Great Buddha Hall remains the world's largest wooden building, earning its inclusion on the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Before lunch, you will stroll through the Isui-en Garden, a traditional Japanese garden created at the end of the 17th century as the private garden of a rich merchant and opened in the middle of the 19th century. Meticulously planned and maintained, it reveals the art of Japanese garden design, seeking balance and harmony while paying homage to the beauty of nature. It consists of two spaces: Minami Shin-en, in the heart of which you will discover a pond, a waterfall and a tea house; and Kita Shin-e, consisting of a bamboo grove, a small stream and a variety of flowering cherry trees and Japanese maples.
Enjoy a lunch in a local restaurant.
Then, you will continue with a visit of Nara's most celebrated shrine, Kasuga Taisha. Established in 768 and listed as a Unesco World Heritage Site, its vermilion-red lacquered buildings form a striking contrast with the surrounding vegetation. Nearly two thousand bronze and stone lanterns line the sanctuary, and a thousand metal lanterns hang along the corridors.
You will then be transferred to the port of Osaka to embark on board your ship. It is approximately a one-and-a-half-hour drive.
Your hotel:
The Good Nature Kyoto, located in the heart of Kyoto, is a true oasis of well-being. Each room is thoughtfully designed to provide a tranquil space, featuring breathtaking views of the city or the surrounding gardens. Experience serenity and comfort in a setting that embraces both nature and culture.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
· 4-night accommodation in Standard room at the Good Nature Kyoto 4* hotel selected by PONANT, local standards (or similar), breakfast included.
· Meals as mentioned in the programme.
· Beverages package during meals (mineral water + a glass of local alcohol + a Japanese tea or a coffee).
· Transfers, visits, and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
· The services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
· Lunch and dinner on day 1, dinner on day 4.
· Personal expenses.
· Visa if necessary.
· Tips for the driver and local guide.
· Other services not mentioned in the programme.
· Early check-in upon arrival at your hotel.
Please note:
· A minimum number of participants is required in order to operate. Rate and itinerary may be subject to change based on the final number of participants. Should the minimum required number not be obtained, an alternative option may be offered.
· It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
· Official hotel check-in time is 3:00 p.m.
· Official hotel check-out time is 11:00 a.m.
· Early check-in or late check-out might be available depending on availability and on a supplement basis.
· The local currency is the yen. We recommend that you bring the amount of money you will need for the trip, or you can use your credit card to withdraw yen from the cash machines (note that only Japan Post Bank & Seven Eleven machines accept foreign credit cards).
· You will have to take off your shoes before entering any of the temples. During visits, it is advisable to respect dress codes (covering the upper body and legs below the knees).
· There will be long walk on unpaved and bumpy roads with some stairs. Many steep steps involved. This tour is not recommended for guests with walking difficulties.
· Please be aware that a double room with a king size bed is not common in Japan. Most of the hotels do offer double rooms with twin beds. The double room king size bed is not guaranteed at the hotel.
Contact of your hotel:
Hotel Good Nature Kyoto
318-6 Inari-cho, kawaramachidori shijosagaru,
Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan
Telephone : (+81) 75 352 6730
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : £3,022
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.DISCOVER OSAKA (1 NIGHT)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Take advantage of one unforgettable day to discover the historical and cultural heritage of Osaka, Japan’s first capital. This programme will be the perfect prelude to your embarkation.
Day 1 – Osaka
Meet at Kansai International airport – Arrival Hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
Transfer from the airport located in Osaka to the hotel Centara Osaka 5*.
Day and meals at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2 - Osaka
After breakfast and check-out, you will board the coach for a full day sightseeing tour of Osaka, the second largest city in Japan and the biggest merchant city in Western Japan.
You will start your exploration with a visit of the outside of Osaka Castle. Osaka Castle was a monumental fortification constructed, upon the order of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, to be the strongest and enclosed by tremendous stone walls 12 kilometres in length. The castle took three and a half years to complete and required 30 000 to 40 000 men. It played a major role in the unification of Japan. It was destroyed and rebuilt several times. The entire Osaka Castle Park covers about two square kilometers.
Enjoy a lunch in a local restaurant.
You will then proceed to Sumiyoshi Taisha shrine. The entire Sumiyoshi Taisha, dating from the third century and rebuilt from the nineteenth century, classified “National Treasure” is dedicated to the four kami gods, of the sea and sea voyage, agriculture, diplomacy and waka poetry. The Empress Jingu (169-269), known for her conquest of Korea, is also worshiped. In the past, sea merchants would stop in Osaka to pray to Sumiyoshi Taisha, before returning to their ships.
You will then be transferred to the port of Osaka to embark on your ship.
Your hotel:
With its modern architecture, the hotel Centara Osaka is a stunning 33-story visual masterpiece located in the heart of Namba, the city's vibrant entertainment and shopping district.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
· 1-night accommodation in Standard room at Centara Osaka Hotel 5*, local standards (or similar) including breakfast.
· Meal as mentioned in the programme.
· Beverages package during meal (mineral water + a glass of local alcohol + a Japanese tea or coffee).
· Transfers and visits as mentioned in the programme.
· Services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
· Lunch and dinner on day 1.
· Tips for the driver and local guide.
· Visa if necessary.
· Personal expenses and other services not mentioned in the programme.
· Early check-in upon your arrival at the hotel.
Please note:
· A minimum number of participants is required in order to operate. Rate and itinerary may be subject to change based on the final number of participants. Should the minimum required number not be obtained, an alternative option may be offered.
· It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
· Official hotel check-in time is 3:00 p.m.
· Official hotel check-out time is 12:00 a.m.
· Early check-in or late check-out might be available depending on availability and on a supplement basis.
· The local currency is the yen. We recommend that you bring the amount of money you will need for the trip, or you can use your credit card to withdraw yen from the cash machines (note that only Japan Post Bank & Seven Eleven machines accept foreign credit cards).
· During visits, it is advisable to respect dress codes (covering the upper body and legs below the knees).
· There will be long walk on unpaved and bumpy roads with some stairs. Many steep steps involved.
· Please be aware that a double room with a king size bed is not common in Japan. Most of the hotels do offer double rooms with twin beds. The double room king size bed is not guaranteed at the hotel.
Contact of your hotel:
Hotel Centara Osaka
2 Chome-11-50 Nanbanaka, Naniwa Ward
Osaka, 556-0011, Japan
Telephone : (+81) 6 6616 9945
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : £830
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.EASTERN JAPAN TOKYO TO OSAKA (4 NIGHTS)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a programme designed just for you.
Day 1 - Tokyo
The meeting place for your tour is The Capitol Hotel Tokyu, Tokyo.
Upon arrival enjoy some time at leisure and then meet your fellow travellers for dinner at the hotel
Overnight at The Capitol Hotel Tokyu
Day 2 - Tokyo
After a leisurely breakfast, experience the essence of Japanese food and culture with a sushi making class followed by lunch at a local restaurant.
Afterward some sightseeing by rickshaw. Feel the bustling spirits and ambience of the old Edo period and new contemporary times in Asakusa and then continue to downtown Tokyo to visit the Sensoji temple, Nakamise shopping mall and Kaminarimon gate.
For dinner enjoy "Japanese robatayaki-style grilled cuisine at a local restaurant
Overnight at The Capitol Hotel Tokyu
Day 3 - Tokyo to Nikko
After breakfast we check out and head toward Nikko
Nikko, a picturesque city located in the mountains North of Tokyo is a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Home to the stunning Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the serene Kegon Falls.
Lunch will be served in a local restaurant
Dinner will be the traditional French-Japanese cuisine of The Kanaya Hotel, passsed down through generations of Head Chefs for approx 150 years.
Overnight at the Kanaya Hotel
Day 4 - Nikko to Hakone (Sengokuhara)
After breakfast we check out of the hotel and head toward Hakone (Sengokuhara)
Hakone is a popular tourist destination located in the Kanagawa Prefecture, it is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, hot springs and rich cultural heritage. Offering a range of cultural experiences for visitors.
Overall Hakone is a captivating destination that beautifully blends nature and culture making it an ideal spot for relaxation and exploration. With its seasonal beauty there is always something new to discover.
Lunch will be served in a local restaurant
Dinner at the hotel
Overnight at The Hiramatsu Hotel and Resort Sengokuhara
Day 5 - Hakone (Sengokuhara) to Osaka
Enjoy Breakfast before check out
After check out we head toward Mishima station. along the way enjoy beautiful scenery stopping at Lake Ashino to admire Mount Fuji. Travel by Shinkansen from Mishima to Shin-Osaka and then to the port of Osaka.
Lunch will be served "obento" which is a Japanese style lunch box.
Your Hotels:
The Capitol Hotel Tokyu
2 Chome-10-3 Nagatacho
Chiyoda City, Tokyo
+81 3 3503 0109
Nikko Kanaya Hotel
Kamihatsuishimachi, Nikko
Nikko City
+81 0288 54 0001
The Hiramatsu Hotel and Resort Sengokuara
1245-337 Sengokuhara
Hakone
+81 460-83-8981
Your programme includes:
· Services listed on the itinerary
· Meals as mentioned in the programme
· Transfers, visits and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme
· The services of a local English speaking guide
Your programme does not include:
· Dinner on day 5
· Personal Expenses
· Visa if necessary
· Tips for the driver and local guide
· Other services not mentioned in the programme
· Early check in upon arrival at your hotel
Total : £4,700
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.DISCOVER BUSAN (1 NIGHT)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Day 1 - Busan
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local representative.
You will explore Busan, the second-largest city in South Korea.
Surrounded by mountains, Busan perfectly embodies the harmony between urban modernity and nature, blending ancient traditions with contemporary culture. It is a vibrant destination offering panoramic views of both the sea and the city. You will wander through its lively streets, discovering neighborhoods where modern architecture lights up the city.
Lunch will be served in a local restaurant.
In the late afternoon, you will check-in to the 4* hotel selected by PONANT.
Dinner at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2 - Busan
After breakfast and check-out, time at leisure depending on your flight schedule.
You will then be transferred to the airport in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
Your programme includes:
· 1-night accommodation in Standard room at the hotel 4* selected by PONANT (local standard), breakfast included.
· Meals as mentioned in the programme with beverage package (mineral water + a glass of local alcohol + a tea or a coffee).
· Transfers, visits, and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
· The services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
· Dinner on day 1.
· Personal expenses.
· Visa if necessary.
· Tips for the driver and local guide.
· Early check-in and late check-out.
· Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
· A minimum number of participants is required in order to operate. Rate and itinerary may be subject to change based on the final number of participants. Should the minimum required number not be obtained, an alternative option may be offered.
· It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
· Official hotel check-in time is 3:00 p.m.
· Official hotel check-out time is 12:00 a.m.
· Early check-in or late check-out might be available depending on availability and on a supplement basis.
· The local currency is the Won. We recommend that you bring the amount of money you will need for the trip.
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : £790
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.