For travellers who think they know Japan, a new luxury cruise aims to reveal a different side of the country.
Hankyu Travel International has chartered Ponant’s Le Jacques Cartier for Japan’s 2027 cherry blossom season, becoming the first Japanese travel agency to exclusively charter a Ponant vessel for inbound travellers.
The 184-guest luxury expedition ship will sail three limited itineraries through lesser-known coastal towns that larger vessels cannot access, positioning the voyage as both an expedition and cultural immersion.
These include a 13 March 2027 sailing from Kobe to Yokohama to explore the beauty of Setouchi; a 25 March 2027 journey from Yokohama to Kobe, with visits to the Setouchi islands and Busan; and a 6 April 2027 voyage from Kobe to Kumamoto, with stops at the islands of Kyushu and Busan.
Equipped with Zodiacs, the expedition ship will also reach remote islands, secluded coves and coastal communities that remain largely undiscovered by overseas travellers.
Travellers can witness a live fish auction in Yaizu, learn traditional ikejime fish-filleting techniques and bonito-flake making, then enjoy the morning’s catch for lunch.
Other moments include private access experiences such as tea rituals in Shizuoka, panoramic Mount Fuji views from Tago-no-ura and an exclusive cocktail reception within the grounds of Kumamoto Castle.