All four main islands on one cruise – with a detour to vibrant South Korea
Uncharted territory even for Asia experts: from classics to insider tips
Ancient values, new trends: tea houses contrast with futuristic metropolises
Active experiences on many hikes*
Faces of South Korea – busy and serene at the same time
* The shore activities are not included in the cruise price and are in the planning stage. Subject to change without notice
At anchor
Further information
True understanding unfolds only through experience. Your insightful journey around Japan with the HANSEATIC inspiration offers an especially deep understanding of the country. Starting along the rarely visited west coast of Honshu, you will explore fishing villages and rice fields near Wajima on the Noto Peninsula1. The town itself is renowned for its lacquerware.
Due to its unique geology and isolation, the Oki Islands have developed a distinctive ecosystem, characterised by red rock formations and verdant vegetation. Hiking along the Kuniga Coast* offers you the opportunity to enjoy continually changing views of the Sea of Japan from the 257-meter-high Matengai Cliff. Alternatively, you can visit the Takuhi Shrine* or learn more about the islands by taking a bus and boat tour*.
Sakaiminato is renowned for the quirky bronze statues created by the locally born manga artist Mizuki Shigeru. The Daisen-Oki National Park could easily serve as inspiration for Japanese ink paintings, with features like the "twin" of Mount Fuji when hiking at Mount Daisen*. The Izumo Taisha Shrine* is considered one of the most significant Shinto sanctuaries, where newlyweds pray for a happy marriage and singles seek a partner.
Mysterious, otherworldly, and unknown: in South Korea, you enter a captivating realm. Discover Busan with a tour of the Haedong Yonggungsa Temple*. Korea's deep connection to nature is revealed on a coastal hike through Igidae Park*, featuring its quaint suspension bridges. Quench your thirst for new experiences with a traditional Korean tea ceremony*.
Pure nature: The UNESCO World Heritage landscape of Jeju Island, with its volcanic peak and lava tunnels, is best explored on an island tour* or with a walk to the rim of the Sangumburi Crater*.
Back in Japan on the southernmost main island of Kyushu, Nagasaki narrates its poignant history*. The events of 1945 are not the only focus here – you will also find Japan's oldest stone bridge and its oldest Christian church.
In southwestern Japan, the Nansei Islands stretch over 1,000 km, often referred to as the "Japanese South Seas." Yakushima showcases its lush tropical landscape and ancient cedar forests on a hike*, accompanied by the sounds of numerous bird species and macaques. When mist drifts over rhododendrons, mosses, and lichens, the rainforest reveals its particularly mystical charm.
Great natural wonders and cultural treasures also define Shikoku, the smallest of Japan’s main islands. Surrounded by mountain ranges, the coastal city of Uwajima transports you back to the Edo period with its historic castle. Following in the footsteps of the once-powerful Date family, you can delve deeper into the cultural heritage of Uwajima*. Gain insights into the tradition of the terraced fields of Yusu – the only way to practice agriculture in the mountainous region. Alternatively, take a journey back in time by visiting the old town of Uchiko*, which was the center of wax and candle production in the 20th century.
From Shimizu, uncover the secret of green tea*. Equally iconic and steeped in stories is Japan’s most famous landmark – Mount Fuji*. Will the weather reveal its majestic 3,776-metre high snow-capped peak to you?
Reaching towards the sky are the structures of the megacity Tokyo*. A city of contrasts, it features the Imperial Palace, quaint temples, intricate shrines, and bustling markets. Stroll through Japanese gardens and immerse yourself in the art*. Ascend to new heights with a visit to Japan’s tallest tower – the Tokyo Skytree*.
The extraordinary capabilities of nature are on full display near Miyako at the Sanriku Fukko National Park, with its remarkable flora and fauna. Your day's motto: Actively discover Japan – through a coastal hike* along rugged cliffs, exploring the Ryusendo limestone cave*, or by boat along the impressive Kitayamazaki cliff coast*.
Off the coast of Japan's northernmost main island, Hokkaido, you will reach the rugged, small rocky island of Okushiri, known for its abalone and sea urchins. Should the authorities give the green light, you will explore the island's natural beauty with your expert guides. In good weather, the Zodiacs will also come into play. And then it is completed: the circumnavigation of Japan. Driven by curiosity and a pioneering spirit, this journey rewards you with a trove of Far Eastern experiences that are truly unique.
* The shore activities are not included in the cruise price and are in the planning stage. Subject to change without notice
At anchor
When the ship is anchored, there is no pier and the ship anchors in open water. The transfer to land is carried out using tender boats or zodiacs.
Golf
You head for the best and most beautiful greens in the world and are looked after by a PGA golf professional
Zodiac
Where even our small and few ships can't get any further, you can continue your adventures safely in robust inflatable boats (weather permitting).
Music
In an almost private atmosphere you can experience artists up close on the high seas or in front of the most beautiful places in the world.
Arrival and departure | optionally bookable
Wed, 03.06.2026
Scheduled flight from Germany to Tokyo
Thu, 04.06.2026
Overnight stay with breakfast
Fri, 05.06.2026
Scheduled flight to Sapporo
Sun, 21.06.2026
Journey to Sapporo, scheduled flight to Tokyo Overnight stay with breakfast
Mon, 22.06.2026
Scheduled flight from Tokyo to Germany
Extend your trip
Our popular before and after programmes include a wide range of excursions and are usually accompanied by experienced Hapag-Lloyd Cruises tour guides. Recommended for travelers who like to share their experiences with a group of like-minded people. Experience selected highlights of your holiday destination and enjoy the amenities of a group trip - we take care of transfers, excursions and overnight stays.
Levels of difficulty
The organized land activities that we have planned for you place different demands on your physical fitness. So that you can see at a glance whether the requirement profile of your desired excursion matches your expectations, we have classified the activities in our excursion program into three levels:
easy
These programmes do not place any particular demands on your physical condition. Walks or tours take you along easy footpaths and any stairs are easy to negotiate.
moderat
These programmes place moderate demands on your physical condition. Walking for up to 2 hours (including on cobblestones) and climbing stairs should not cause you any problems. Programmes that include off-road vehicle rides on partially uneven and bumpy roads are not recommended for guests with back problems.
demanding
These programmes require a good level of physical fitness, dexterity and sure-footedness, e.g. for extended tours or city walks (sometimes on uneven surfaces and with many steps) or sporty, active hikes and kayak tours.
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Booming landscapes and inner reflection. Harmony and consensus. Mysteries and misunderstandings. Correct and sharpen your view of Japan like never before. The expedition ships of Hapag-Lloyd Cruises let you look deep into the soul of the island kingdom. By the time your Far East adventure comes to an end, you will agree with Buddha’s maxim: it is better to travel well than to arrive.
Price special
Attractive combination discount
Extend your stay with the subsequent cruise INS2609 and save € 1,200 per person (applies to PLATINUM fare).
Included Services
Expedition and knowledge
All landings and rides in the ship’s own Zodiacs (Use of the Zodiacs depends on the destination and on official permits)
Experienced experts from various disciplines accompany every cruise, give presentations and multimedia lectures, provide well-informed answers to questions about the cruising area and take part in the Zodiac landings/rides and hikes from/to ship
Use of the interactive Ocean Academy with individual knowledge formats
Comprehensive information before the cruise – for example about the Arctic, Antarctic, the South Seas and the Amazon, as well as expedition maps
Cabin
In every cabin: champagne to welcome you, mini bar restocked daily with non-alcoholic beverages (additional selection in Grand Suites and Junior Suites), coffee machine (tea on request), 24-hour cabin service
Equipment for loan: one pair of binoculars and two sets of Nordic Walking poles in the cabin itself, furthermore warm parkas, rubber boots, snorkelling equipment
Flat-screen TV with information and entertainment programme, personal email account and Internet access via Wi-Fi (free of charge for one hour per guest and day, satellite-dependent especially in polar areas)
Information about harbours and destinations (where available) in the cabin
Restaurants
International gourmet cuisine – full board: breakfast (early-bird and late riser breakfast), bouillon, afternoon coffee/tea time, lunch and dinner (three restaurants to choose from in the evening with flexible opening hours)
For all cases
German ship and expedition management as well as a mostly German-speaking service crew
Harbour and airport fees
Cancellation fee insurance (20% excess) in the PLATINUM and GOLD fares
Spa and fitness
Extensive sports programme: fitness area with ocean view, course programme, additional sports activities on shore depending on the destination (Personal training for an additional charge)
OCEAN SPA with Finnish sauna with an ocean view, steam sauna, indoor and outdoor relaxation area (spa treatments and hairdresser at a surcharge)
