Luxury Expedition Cruising 2020-2021

House, a complex featuring unique work by Japanese
and international artists. Board a high-speed boat to
Shodoshima (Shodo Island), the heart of Japan’s olivegrowing
industry for a full-day tour. Or you may choose to
remain on Shikoku Island, experiencing Takamatsu’s most
acclaimed features. Begin with a visit to Ritsurin Park, one
of Japan’s finest gardens. Next, visit the Kinashi area of
Takamatsu, among the country’s main bonsai production
centres, to learn about traditional methods for growing
these intensely cultivated, tiny trees. Enjoy the rest of your
time at leisure in the lovely port of Takamatsu.
Le Soleal | Meals: B L D
Incredible gardens
Explore splendid Kenrokuen Garden
alongside a resident horticulturist,
observing tumbling waterfalls and
the sun-dappled Oirase trails
17 JUN: Hiroshima & Miyajima
Arrive in Hiroshima, where you can opt to visit the
Hiroshima Peace Park and Museum. Take a moment to
reflect as you read the cenotaph inscribed with the names
of the victims of the atomic bomb. Then, take a speedboat
ride to Miyajima Island, site of the iconic red Floating Torii
Gate and the Daisho-in Buddhist shrine. Or, take a full-day
excursion to Hiroshima, visiting the Hiroshima Castle and
also the namesake Peace Park and Museum, where you
can attend a private talk with an atomic bomb survivor.
Alternatively, spend the day on the tranquil island of
Miyajima. Ascend Mount Misen by cable car for a hike and
admire the Shinto shrine and torii gate from above.
Le Soleal | Meals: B L D
18 JUN: Karatsu
This afternoon, Le Soleal arrives at the port of Karatsu.
Once an early trading post between Japan and mainland
Asia, Karatsu still maintains its medieval heritage. Visit
Karatsu Castle, known as the ‘flying crane castle’. Pay a visit
to the Hikiyama Exhibition Hall, which houses the floats
and artifacts used in the annual Karatsu Kunchi autumn
festival. You may also watch traditional ningyo joruri
(puppet theatre), and visit the Nakazato Taroemon kiln,
a ceramic studio that has been active since the late 16th
century. Alternatively, explore the Kitahata Shige region to
meet with green tea farmers and pick your own tea leaves.
Le Soleal | Meals: B L D
Modern art
Encounter minimalist art and outdoor
sculptures at Chichu, an architecturally
significant museum-island off the coast
of Honshu
19 JUN: Gyeongju, South Korea
Disembark and spend a full day exploring Gyeongju,
South Korea, ancient capital of the Shilla Dynasty and a
UNESCO World Heritage Site. Gyeongju’s cultural heritage
dates back to the first millennium. Explore excavated
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