Japan Expedition

Port: Osaka

Estimated Time at Destination (ETD): 18:00 Departure

Guests Boarding Beginning 16:00

Airport Transfers

KRC provides group airport transfers to the Osaka Hilton: Group transfers from the airport to the Osaka Hilton will depart the airport at 12:00 and 14:00.

Guests who arrive early or choose to travel independently can easily reach the Osaka Hilton from the airport by taxi or train, as the hotel is conveniently located near the train station.

Hilton Osaka enjoys an exceptional location in the heart of the vibrant Umeda district. Directly connected to JR Osaka Station via an extensive underground walkway network, the hotel offers great access to Osaka’s major transportation hub, making travel throughout the city effortless.

Day Room: Available for luggage storage and relaxation beginning late morning of June 15. Shopping nearby; optional to book a full room night at the Hilton.

Hotel to Ship Transfer: The group transfer for all guests will depart the Osaka Hilton to the ship at 16:00

Airport to Ship Transfer: The final group transfer from the airport directly to the ship will depart at 16:00. After 16:00 clients must transfer on their own to the ship – all onboard by latest 18:00.

Tour Choices: Several destinations on our itinerary offer multiple excursion options. A link will be provided 60 days prior to departure for guests to select their preferred tours. To secure a spot on your chosen excursion, we strongly recommend submitting your selections at least 45 days before departure. Please note that all tours are subject to change and may have both minimum and maximum participant limits.

Port: Kochi

ETD 13:00 – ETD 20:00

Cradled along the sunwarmed southern coast of Shikoku Island, Kōchi Prefecture opens onto sweeping views of the Pacific—an inviting gateway to some of Japan’s most cherished natural and cultural treasures.

Tour Choice 1: Kochi’s Highlights — A Journey Through Nature, History, and Local Life

Cradled along the sun warmed southern coast of Shikoku Island, Kōchi Prefecture opens onto sweeping views of the Pacific—an inviting gateway to some of Japan’s most cherished natural and cultural treasures.

Your day begins in serene beauty at the Makino Botanical Garden; a tranquil sanctuary nestled atop Mount Godaisan. Named for Dr. Tomitaro Makino, the “Father of Japanese Botany,” this exquisite garden is both a celebration of Japan’s native plant life and a living chronicle of centuries of botanical discovery. Stroll through artfully designed landscapes, breathe in the fragrances of rare and seasonal flora, and explore the adjoining museum, where engaging exhibits illuminate Dr. Makino’s pioneering research and passion for the natural world.

From nature’s calm, we step into the rich heritage of Kōchi Castle, one of Japan’s few remaining original castles to have withstood time, disaster, and historical upheaval. Dating back to the early 17th century, the castle complex still retains its main keep (tenshu), watchtowers, and numerous authentic interior structures. As you wander the grounds, you’ll sense the enduring legacy of feudal Japan and enjoy sweeping views of the city below.

The day concludes in the lively heart of local culture at Hirome Market. More than a marketplace, Hirome is a vibrant community gathering space—bustling with food stalls, craft vendors, and the warm hum of conversation. Here, you can savor regional flavors, browse handmade goods, and experience firsthand the everyday rhythms and genuine hospitality that define life in Kōchi.

Tour Choice 2: Hidden Wonders of Kōchi — Ryūga-dō Cave & Hydrangea Road

Kōchi’s spiritual legacy and striking natural landscapes intertwine on this unforgettable journey—a route shaped by centuries of devotion, geological wonder, and the quiet beauty of Japan’s seasonal rhythms.

Your exploration begins at Chikurinji Temple, the 31st stop on the famed Shikoku Pilgrimage. Founded in the 8th century and long connected to the revered monk Gyōki, Chikurinji rests gracefully on a forested hillside overlooking Kōchi City. Wander its moss covered paths, spacious courtyards, and elegant temple halls. The five-story pagoda rises gently above the treetops, and the refined gardens reflect the temple’s historic role as both a spiritual sanctuary and a center of learning.

From this tranquil atmosphere, the journey descends into the ancient depths of Ryūgadō Cave, one of Japan’s most significant limestone caverns. Carved by water over millions of years, Ryūgadō reveals a dramatic subterranean world—towering stalactites, rippling stone formations, and narrow passages illuminated to showcase the cave’s ethereal beauty. Along the path, you’ll encounter fascinating clues to prehistoric human habitation, offering a rare glimpse into the region’s earliest history.

Back above ground, the experience softens into the vibrant colors of Noichi Hydrangea Road. During the blooming season, thousands of hydrangeas sweep along the winding route, creating a living tapestry of blues, purples, and pinks set against lush greenery. This gentle landscape captures Kōchi’s deep appreciation for nature’s transitions, offering a peaceful and visually enchanting finale to the day.

A scenic return drive to the port completes a journey that harmonizes sacred tradition, geological wonder, and the serene, everchanging beauty of rural Kōchi.

Port: Beppu
ETD: 12:00 – 20:00 

Framed by misty mountains and Beppu Bay, Beppu is a hotspring region where geothermal landscapes and timeless traditions blend seamlessly. Steam drifting through its streets hints at centuries of geothermal culture, while the region’s artisans keep alive beloved crafts such as bamboo weaving and handworked ceramics. Wander through Sol Paseo Ginza, a nostalgic covered arcade lined with local shops, cafés, and craft boutiques—an inviting glimpse into Beppu’s warm community spirit and everyday charm.

Tour Choice 1: Exploring the Sacred Geothermal Wonders of Beppu

The journey from the port ascends into Beppu’s volcanic highlands, a landscape shaped by powerful geothermal forces for more than a millennium. As the road winds upward, thin ribbons of steam begin to curl from the earth—early signs of the dramatic natural spectacle ahead.

Your first destination is Chinoike Jigoku, the legendary “Blood Pond Hell,” renowned for its vivid crimson waters. This striking color originates from iron rich clay that has been heated deep below the surface, rising to create one of Japan’s most visually arresting hot springs. Historically, the mineral laden clay was prized for traditional medicine and dyeing, linking this surreal landscape to Beppu’s early industries and cultural practices. 

A short drive brings a dramatic change in tone at Umi Jigoku, where a luminous cobalt blue pool shimmers beneath drifting veils of steam. Formed over a thousand years ago by a volcanic eruption, its mesmerizing color comes from silica suspended in the boiling water. Lush gardens, palm trees, and seasonal blooms create a serene contrast to the spring’s volcanic intensity, while small exhibits introduce the region’s remarkable geology and long-held hot spring traditions.

Nearby awaits Komado Jigoku, a compact yet diverse geothermal area where multiple springs reveal an astonishing range of colors, temperatures, and bubbling behaviors. Named after local folklore, this site showcases everything from churning mud pools to powerful steam vents and mineral formations—a vivid demonstration of the earth’s restless energy beneath Beppu. 

The day’s final stop brings you higher into the hills to Myoban Yunosato, a rustic mountainside hamlet shrouded in drifting steam. Here, traditional yunohana huts—used since the Edo period—still produce alum crystals from mineral rich vapors. These crystals once played a vital role in fabric dyeing and supported local livelihoods, offering a fascinating blend of history, craft, and natural science. The atmospheric setting, with steam rising against quiet mountain scenery, provides a memorable and contemplative conclusion to your Beppu exploration.

Tour Choice 2: Beppu’s Craft and Nature

Beppu’s rich artistic heritage and dramatic volcanic scenery come together on this thoughtfully paced journey—an exploration that blends traditional craftsmanship, sweeping vistas, and the lively pulse of everyday city life.

Your experience begins at the Beppu City Traditional Bamboo Crafts Center, a testament to the region’s longstanding mastery of bamboo artistry. Beppu has been a leading center of bamboo craftsmanship since the late Edo and Meiji eras, supported by abundant local bamboo and a culture shaped by its famous hot springs. Inside the center, you’ll encounter both historical and modern works that showcase techniques passed carefully through generations. A hand sn crafting session invites you to try your own skill at shaping bamboo, offering a tactile appreciation for the precision and patience behind this enduring art form.

From meticulous craftsmanship, the journey expands outward into panoramic grandeur with a ride on the Beppu Ropeway. As the gondola ascends the wooded slopes of Mount Tsurumi, ever-widening views unfold—steam rising from Beppu’s geothermal vents, the city’s patchwork streets, and the coastline stretching into the distance. At Tsurumi Sanjō Station near the summit, you’ll have time to immerse yourself in the crisp highland air and take in the sweeping landscape where volcanic terrain, seasonal foliage, and ocean horizons converge. The descent offers a fresh perspective as the scenery shifts beneath you.

Returning to lower elevation, the atmosphere becomes vibrant and urban at Sol Paseo Ginza, one of Beppu’s main shopping arcades. This covered street hums with the rhythm of daily life—lined with small shops, cafés, and eateries frequented by locals and visitors alike. Here, you can browse regional goods at your own pace or simply enjoy observing the easy flow of community life in this well established commercial district.

Port: Hiroshima
ETD: 0700 – 1200

Hiroshima offers a moving blend of reflection and resilience, centered around its Peace Memorial Park—a tranquil expanse of lawns, water features, and monuments dedicated to remembrance and hope for a peaceful future. Just offshore, the island of Miyajima welcomes visitors with charming streets, local crafts, and its famous Itsukushima Shrine creates one of Japan’s most captivating seaside views.

Morning Tour: Peace Memorial

At the heart of Hiroshima lies the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, a serene yet powerful landscape created in 1954 on the very ground that once stood directly beneath the atomic bomb’s hypocenter. Designed by architect Tange Kenzō, the park unfolds as a contemplative sequence of open lawns, reflective pools, and intentionally aligned memorials that guide visitors through the emotional and historical contours of the city’s past. Iconic landmarks—such as the Cenotaph for the A-bomb Victims and the enduring Flame of Peace—embody Hiroshima’s unwavering commitment to remembrance, reconciliation, and the pursuit of a peaceful future.

At the center of the park stands the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, whose extensive collection presents a profound and unflinching account of the events of 6 August 1945. Archival photographs, personal belongings, survivor testimonies, and detailed scientific explanations illuminate both the immediate devastation and the long, determined path toward recovery that followed. Continually updated to incorporate new research and perspectives, the museum maintains a narrative that is historically meticulous, emotionally resonant, and deeply human in its portrayal of resilience.

After time spent exploring the museum and walking the surrounding memorial grounds, the tour concludes with a return drive to the port—leaving travelers with a reflective understanding of Hiroshima’s past and its enduring message of peace.

Afternoon Port: Miyajima ETD: 1300 – 1800

Afternoon Tour: Miyajima: Island of Heritage, Beauty, and Living Tradition (Island transfers via Zodiac)

One of Japan’s most beloved destinations, Miyajima blends cultural richness, scenic tranquility, and distinctive local charm. A leisurely stroll through the island’s atmospheric streets reveals rows of inviting shops and workshops offering traditional crafts and regional specialties. Among the most cherished treats is momiji manju—delicate, maple leaf–shaped cakes filled with sweet bean paste—an iconic confection that has become synonymous with the island’s enduring hospitality.

Beyond its lively avenues, Miyajima is home to some of Japan’s most celebrated landmarks, none more famous than Itsukushima Shrine and its world renowned floating torii gate, which appears to hover gracefully above the sea at high tide. This striking interplay of architecture and tide has captivated pilgrims and travelers for centuries.

Itsukushima Shrine itself is a masterpiece of overwater construction, a design established in the late Heian period under the influence of Taira no Kiyomori. The shrine’s vermilion corridors rise and fall with the movement of the tides, preserving ritual purity by avoiding contact with the island’s sacred soil. The main hall, Noh stage, and surrounding structures reflect the courtly aesthetics and ceremonial traditions that shaped its early development.

Free time in Miyajima’s welcoming village allows for unhurried exploration of historic lanes surrounding the shrine precinct. Longstanding merchants and small workshops echo the island’s deep connection to pilgrimage culture, offering glimpses into craft traditions sustained across generations. Your walk concludes near the ferry terminal, where the zodiac awaits to return you to the ship.

Port: Fukuoka
ETD: 0900 –
Overnight Docked for Shabbat

The largest city on the island of Kyushu, Fukuoka is the union of the castle town of Fukuoka on the west bank of the Naka River and the merchant town of Hakata on the east bank. This buzzy metropolis combines an effortless blend of trendy vibrant art installations, historic ruins and colorful coastal parks.

Tour Choice 1: Discovering Fukuoka — History and Art

Your exploration of Fukuoka begins with a scenic drive through the city’s modern core before arriving at the Former Den’emon Ito Residence, once home to one of Kyushu’s most influential industrial families. The estate reflects the stature and cosmopolitan tastes of Ito Den’emon, whose success in coal mining and later diversified enterprises helped shape the region’s economic landscape. Within the residence, Western influenced architectural details blend seamlessly with traditional Japanese spatial design. Ornate interiors, stately reception rooms used for business diplomacy, and gardens composed to highlight seasonal color and carefully framed views all speak to the refined lifestyle and ambitions of its former owner.

After lunch back on board, the afternoon unfolds at the Fukuoka Asian Art Museum, an institution dedicated to showcasing artistic exchange across East, Southeast, and South Asia. Its collection, focused on works created since the mid20th century, spans painting, photography, sculpture, and mixedmedia installations. Thoughtfully curated exhibits trace how urbanization, migration, and cultural renewal have shaped contemporary artistic expression throughout the region, offering a dynamic perspective on modern Asian identities. The journey continues into Nakasu, a lively riverisland district whose character has evolved from an Edoperiod commercial hub into one of Fukuoka’s most energetic urban quarters. Narrow streets, arched bridges connecting to Hakata and Tenjin, and rows of small storefronts reflect centuries of commerce, creativity, and streetlevel entrepreneurship. During your free time here, you may wander through confectioners, longestablished shops, and the compact urban fabric that preserves the spirit of Hakata’s mercantile heritage.

Tour Choice 2: Fukuoka Highlights

The journey from the pier follows the coastline toward Karatsu, a region long celebrated for shaping the ceramic traditions of northern Kyushu. At the heart of this heritage is a Karatsu pottery kiln, where the craft traces its origins to the late 16th and early 17th centuries. Here, potters once combined local clay with Koreaninfluenced firing techniques and woodfueled climbing kilns to create the subdued, ashglazed wares that became deeply intertwined with early Japanese tea culture. The kiln site offers insight into the enduring handforming methods, natural glazes, and expressive surface textures that define the timeless aesthetic of Karatsuyaki.

The route continues into central Karatsu for a visit to the Hikiyama Exhibition Hall, home to the elaborate festival floats of the Karatsu Kunchi Festival—an autumn celebration with origins in the early Edo period. Each float, or hikiyama, is a striking fusion of lacquered wood, hand painted papier-mâché, and richly dyed textiles, crafted to portray figures from mythology, folklore, or maritime legend. The exhibition reveals how local guilds historically commissioned and paraded these monumental works, preserving a tradition that reflects both community identity and regional craftsmanship. A scenic return route leads back to the ship, where lunch is served on board before the afternoon continues in Nakasu. Set between the Naka and Hakata rivers, this river island district has evolved from an Edo period trading center into one of Fukuoka’s most vibrant urban quarters. Narrow streets, bridges connecting the island to Hakata and Tenjin, and a tapestry of longe stablished shops reveal the layered history of a neighborhood shaped by commerce and street level enterprise.

Return to your ship as we prepared for a magical Shabbat together with old and new friends! Candle lighting 18:56

Port: Fukuoka
ETD: 21:00  

Day of Shabbat programming, prayer and study while docked in Fukuoka, a marvelous day with our old and new friends.  

Port: Busan, South Korea
ETD: 0700 – 1730

During the evening, we cross the Sea of Japan, sailing toward Korea for a full day immersed in its rich culture, history, and vibrant contemporary life.

Busan Excursion: A Day of Remembrance, Culture & Coastal Beauty

The morning unfolds as the ship arrives at the Busan International Cruise Terminal around 7:00 AM, followed by customs and arrival formalities. From here, the day opens into a thoughtful journey shaped by remembrance, history, and the dynamic energy of contemporary Busan.

Morning Tour: Departing the port, you travel to the solemn and beautifully maintained grounds of the United Nations Memorial Cemetery, the only cemetery in the world dedicated by the United Nations. An introductory film at the park’s entrance offers essential historical context, honoring the service and sacrifices of those who fought in the Korean War.

A moving wreath laying ceremony follows, held in memory of two Jewish soldiers—Corporal Montague Ritterband of the United Kingdom and Lieutenant J. Y. Levison of Canada. Their stories serve as a poignant reminder of the global effort that shaped the conflict’s history. A quiet, reflective walk through the serene grounds invites deeper contemplation, enriched by personal narratives shared by local guides whose families experienced the war firsthand.

The morning concludes with a visit to Nampodong Market, Busan’s traditional commercial hub. Here, bustling stalls, local foods, and vibrant street life offer an engaging glimpse of the city’s cultural heartbeat.

Return to the ship for lunch onboard, with time to relax before the afternoon exploration begins.

Afternoon Tour: This afternoon, the journey continues to Gamcheon Culture Village, one of Busan’s most iconic artistic neighborhoods. Perched along steep hillsides overlooking the sea, the village is a kaleidoscope of color—brightly painted homes, whimsical murals, mosaic stairways, and winding alleys filled with independent galleries and craft shops. A guided tour introduces the community’s remarkable transformation from a modest settlement into a thriving creative enclave, with ample time to browse local art, shop, or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere.

The day draws to a close as the ship prepares for departure, setting sail from Busan at 18:00 PM, carrying with it the reflections, insights, and vibrant impressions of this culturally rich and emotionally resonant visit.

Port: Sakaiminato
ETD: 11:00 – 20:00

We return to Japan as we sail into Sakaiminato, a welcoming gateway to the tranquil countryside and rich cultural heritage of the San’in region—where art, history, and natural beauty come together in serene harmony.

Tour: Cultural Treasures of Sakaiminato

The journey from Sakaiminato begins with a scenic drive through the quiet rural landscapes of the San’in region—an everchanging panorama of cultivated fields, clusters of traditional homes, and gentle mountain ranges. This tranquil countryside sets the tone for your first destination, the renowned Adachi Museum of Art. Founded in 1970 by businessman Zenko Adachi, the museum is celebrated for its seamless fusion of modern Japanese art and exquisitely curated gardens. Inside, the collection highlights 20thcentury Nihonga painting, including masterworks by Yokoyama Taikan, whose subtle gradations of color and light helped define the modern Japanese aesthetic. Beyond its galleries, the museum’s gardens unfold like living paintings, framed intentionally through windows and corridors to reveal views that shift with the seasons—raked gravel, mossy stones, flowing water, and meticulously arranged foliage.

The route continues toward Matsue Castle, rising over the historic core of the former Izumo domain. Completed in 1611, this stately fortress is one of only a few original wooden castles still standing in Japan. Its imposing black lacquered exterior, often referred to as “the Black Castle,” encloses a multistory keep designed for both defense and governance. Inside, heavy timber beams, displays of armor, and artifacts connected to the Horio and Matsudaira clans offer a compelling window into the political and cultural life of the early Edo period. From the top level, sweeping views extend across the castle moats, toward Lake Shinji and the beautifully preserved townscape below.

The final stop of the day brings you to Yuushien Garden on Daikon Island, a place long celebrated for its ginseng cultivation and deep horticultural tradition. In a rare privilege, we have secured a private rental of the entire garden exclusively for our group, allowing us to experience this remarkable setting in serene seclusion. Established in 1975, Yuushien presents a masterful interpretation of pond centered landscape design, where islands, arched bridges, cascading waterfalls, and sculpted peony displays come together in harmonious balance. Pathways wind gracefully past moss-covered stones and quiet streams, revealing views that shift with every turn—vibrant peonies in spring, followed by the burnished reds and golds of autumn maples. This intimate, private access invites you to explore the garden at a relaxed pace, fully immersed in its artistry, seasonal beauty, and tranquil atmosphere.

The return to Sakaiminato follows a coastal route framed by the agricultural plains and seascapes of Shimane Prefecture—bringing to a close a day shaped by art, history, and the timeless craftsmanship of the region.

Port: Hagi
ETD: 0800 – 1300

Hagi is a coastal town renowned for its beautifully preserved Edoperiod streets, where narrow lanes, earthen walls, and wooden residences evoke the world of samurai, merchants, and artisans. Shaped by the legacy of the Mori clan and the cultural heritage of the former Chōshū Domain, it offers a quiet elegance and an authentic window into Japan’s early modern past.

Tour Choice 1: Discovering Hagi’s Samurai Heritage

Your arrival by zodiac at Marina Hagi offers an immediate introduction to a coastal town celebrated for its remarkably preserved EDO period streetscape. From the waterfront, the route leads toward Hagi Castle Town, passing through an area once governed by the powerful Mori clan, whose leadership shaped the city into a political and cultural center of the Chōshū Domain. Within this historic district, a grid of narrow lanes, earthen walls, and wooden residences remains largely unchanged since the early 17th century, offering an authentic glimpse into the world of samurai, merchants, and artisans who once animated these streets. 

Your exploration continues with a visit to Kikuya House, one of Hagi’s finest surviving merchant samurai residences. Here, interconnected tatami rooms, refined reception halls, and carefully preserved storehouses reveal the wealth, sophistication, and social standing of the Kikuya family. Traditional joinery, subtle garden elements, and period furnishings highlight the craftsmanship and aesthetic sensibilities that distinguished Hagi at its height.

The journey then leads to the Yoshika Taibi Memorial Museum, dedicated to the acclaimed poet whose writings vividly captured the landscapes, seasonal moods, and everyday life of Hagi. Manuscripts, letters, and personal artifacts illuminate his literary development and provide insight into the cultural environment that nurtured his work.

Tour Choice 2: Cultural Journey Through Yamaguchi — Art Museum & Hagi Castle Town

Landing by zodiac at Marina Hagi sets the tone for a day shaped by art, history, and the quiet refinement of a former domain capital. Hagi’s coastal setting—framed by low mountains and the Sea of Japan—has long nurtured a tradition of scholarship, craftsmanship, and artistic expression, all of which come to life throughout this journey.

Your first stop is the Yamaguchi Prefectural Art Museum / Uragami Memorial Hall, an important cultural institution closely tied to the region’s artistic heritage. The museum showcases works by artists with strong connections to Yamaguchi Prefecture, while the Uragami Memorial Hall presents a distinguished collection of modern Nihonga paintings. These works chart the evolution of Japanese painting from the Meiji period onward, blending classical techniques with new sensibilities shaped by modernization and shifting cultural priorities. The serene gallery spaces invite slow, attentive viewing—time to appreciate delicate brushwork, mineral pigments, and themes drawn from the natural world and daily life.

The route then leads to the Yoshika Taibi Memorial Museum, honoring one of Hagi’s most respected Nihonga painters. Yoshika Taibi’s art is celebrated for its refined elegance, gentle color palette, and deep sensitivity to seasonal light and landscape. Exhibits include finished paintings as well as preparatory sketches, offering a rare window into the disciplined creative process behind his work and the artistic traditions that influenced him.

Your journey concludes in Hagi Castle Town, a remarkably intact samurai district that preserves its original EDO period layout. White plaster walls, narrow lanes, and small irrigation channels create an atmosphere of calm order—echoes of a town once inhabited by retainers of the Mori clan. Here, free time allows you to wander former samurai residences, intimate museums, and artisan workshops, gaining a deeper sense of how architecture, nature, and daily life were woven together in a community designed for both discipline and refinement.

Port: Nagasaki
ETD: 0800 Disembarkation By 9:30