Japan & South Korea by Sea

This trip had been on my wish list for years and it didn’t disappoint. Travelling from Osaka to Kanazawa aboard the Heritage Adventurer, with a side visit to South Korea, gave me a unique way to explore both countries. Big cities, quiet villages, historic sites, and scenic coastlines, all without ever unpacking twice. Bliss.

Osaka and Nara

We began our adventure in Osaka, where we visited the impressive Osaka Castle and soaked up the city’s rich history. A short journey took us to Nara, home to the friendly, free-roaming deer of Nara Park and the massive Todaiji Temple, which houses a giant bronze Buddha. It was a memorable start to the journey and gave us a taste of Japan’s deep cultural roots.

Life on the Heritage Adventurer

Our floating hotel quickly became a welcome retreat after each day’s adventures. The cabins were spacious, the food always hit the spot, and the observation lounge was the perfect place to sip tea and watch Japan’s coastline slip by. The expedition team were not just knowledgeable, but genuinely passionate about the places we visited, and it showed.

Exploring Coastal Japan

In Takamatsu, known as the udon capital of Japan, we explored more than just noodles. A peaceful stroll through the beautifully landscaped Ritsurin Gardens and a wander through Shikoku Mura Village gave us a glimpse into the region’s traditional life and culture.

Uwajima gave us one of the warmest welcomes of the trip, with local boats guiding us into port,a truly special moment. We took in the views and fresh air with a walk through Yakushidani Gorge, complete with waterfalls, forest paths, and a calming sense of stillness.

In Hagi, we visited the impressive Akiyoshido Cave, one of Japan’s largest limestone caverns. It felt like an underground world carved by time, cool, expansive, and quietly awe-inspiring.

Sakaiminato brought us back into the sunlight with a visit to Mount Daisen. With pine scented trails and temple dotted ridges, it was peaceful, scenic, and a refreshing contrast to the bustle of the towns and cities. It was the kind of place that invites you to pause and just enjoy the moment.

Hiroshima & Miyajima

Visiting Hiroshima was a deeply moving and powerful experience. Visiting Peace Memorial Park, the A Bomb Dome, and the museum, was highly emotional and humbling. It’s a place that reminds you of the strength of the human spirit and the importance of peace.

Not far away, Miyajima Island felt like a completely different world. We zipped to the island by zodiac, and visited the famous floating torii gate, which was just as beautiful as the photos, and the deer that roam freely around the island added a quirky charm.

A Glimpse of South Korea

In Busan, South Korea, we spent the day exploring a vibrant mix of art, city views, and seaside calm. Gamcheon Culture Village was full of colour and creativity, with murals and winding lanes at every turn. We enjoyed the sweeping views from Busan X the Sky Tower, and ended the day at Yonggungsa Temple, dramatically perched on the rocks at the edge of the sea.

Wrapping Up in Kanazawa & Tokyo

Our final stop in Japan was Kanazawa, where we visited Yunokuni no Mori, a traditional crafts village where we got hands-on with local techniques. And yes, I did try the gold-leaf ice cream, which tastes like luxury!

The next day, we hopped on the bullet train to Tokyo and said our goodbyes to the incredible Heritage Expeditions team.  After our farewells, I decided to visit the mind-blowing teamLab Borderless digital art museum. It was the perfect modern contrast to everything I’d seen and a great end to the journey.

Final Thoughts

This trip struck the perfect balance between guided excursions, cultural insight, and free time. Seeing both Japan and South Korea by small ship made the whole experience feel relaxed and personal. If you’re looking to explore this part of the world in a unique and immersive way, without packing and repacking your suitcase every night, then this is the way to do it!