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Japan/South Korea

Land of the Rising Sun: A Circumnavigation of Japan

Program No. 24833RJ
Experience Japan by sea, with a bonus day in South Korea, and discover the blend of tradition and innovation, geography and climate that makes the Land of the Rising Sun wholly unique.

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Protecting the Environment

We offset a portion of the emissions created by your travel. Learn more

At a Glance

Have you dreamed of discovering of Japan by water? On a voyage unlike any other, experience the diverse regions of Japan, each home to unique cultures, traditions, landscapes and cuisines. Beginning and ending in Tokyo, circumnavigate the four main islands, stopping to spend one day in South Korea. Journey south to the warm climate of Shikoku, home to Kochi Castle, one of only 12 left in Japan. Along the way, enjoy onboard lectures by expert instructors as you discover lively urban centers, ancient roots and iconic landscapes.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking up to 2 miles per day, occasionally more, on terrain varying from city streets to unpaved, uneven trails.

Best of all, you’ll…

  • Explore the diverse culture and natural splendor of Aomori City, the northernmost city on Japan’s main island, including Japan's most active volcano, Sakurajima.
  • Discover Tokyo's Imperial Palace and the Tokyo National Museum
  • Enjoy Hakodate City Tropical Botanical Garden, a large pyramidal greenhouse paradise of rare and wild flora indigenous to regions. Also made famous for its unusual outdoor Onsen where you can spot adorable monkeys taking a relaxing bath in the hot springs from December to May
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.





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