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Himeji Castle in Himeji City at dramatic sunset, Hyogo Prefecture. Himeji Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Himeji Castle in Himeji City at dramatic sunset, Hyogo Prefecture. Himeji Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
ExpeditionsCoastal Japan: Imperial Dynasties and Modern Culture 

Coastal Japan: Imperial Dynasties and Modern Culture 

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Step back in time on a voyage into Japan’s riveting history, from the storied castle towns of the Edo period to the elegant shrines and merchant districts of the Meiji era to the poignant sites of World War II. Venture into the homes of samurai and feudal lords and discover exquisite centuries-old gardens and temples. Take a detour to South Korea to discover the ancient city of Gyeongju and explore Japanese artistic traditions of the past and present.

Highlights

Koraku-en garden in Okayama one of the three great gardens in, Okayama Prefecture, Japan
  • Meander through Koraku-en and Sengan-en, two unique Japanese gardens that are considered some of the most beautiful in the country

  • 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

  • Learn about the historic past and modern day lives of the Geisha – the treasures of Kyoto

  • Delve into the history of the samurai and their feudal lords while visiting castles and samurai districts in Matsue and Uwajima

duration
16 Days
starts at
Osaka, Japan
ends at
Kyoto, Japan

View our brochure for more details

Explorations 2024-2026

Talk to an Expedition Specialist1.800.397.3348
duration
16 Days
starts at
Osaka, Japan
ends at
Kyoto, Japan

View our brochure for more details

Explorations 2024-2026

duration
16 Days
starts at
Osaka, Japan
ends at
Kyoto, Japan

View our brochure for more details

Explorations 2024-2026

Video

Expedition Spotlight - Japan's Rich History and Vibrant Culture

  • Feb 2024

When it comes to culture and history, “Japan really is a land of contrasts,” says Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic Historian Stephen Fisher. Aboard Coastal Japan: Imperial Dynasties and Modern Culture, guests experience the full breadth of Japanese civilization—from storied feudal-era castles set in quiet villages and pristine landscape gardens constructed over centuries, to the war relics of Hiroshima and modern-day technology of Tokyo. In this episode of Expedition Spotlight, Fisher delves more into these cultural juxtapositions, which coexist so perfectly alongside one another.

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Over 50+ years of exploring, Lindblad Expeditions’ veteran staff and the quality companionship they provide has established the company’s reputation. From expedition leaders to naturalists, most hold advanced degrees and are established authorities in their fields. Some join a few expeditions each year to explore the same sites, some of them spending some time in the field away from rigorous academic work. And others lead expeditions all around the world—with many guests saying, “Where you’re going, we’re going,” and returning time after time to travel with them. Browse our team directory to discover the full cast of expedition staff.

Captain Andrew Cook with guests and Staff on the Bridge of National Geographic Venture, Baja California, Mexico

Special Offers

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Explorations 2024-2026