We're a winner of Conde Nast Traveler's 2022 Readers Choice Awards
Samurai, shrines & surprising wildness
Japan is imbued with an allure that has inspired for centuries. Now for the first time ever we’re venturing to this fascinating region—on two new adventurous itineraries. Roam shores brimming with temples, teahouses, and ancient traditions; discover a seldom-seen wild side on subtropical islands where azure waters meet verdant forests; plus, get a taste of Taiwan and Korea too. First impressions are everything—join us aboard National Geographic Resolution on these pioneering inaugural itineraries.
(0) South Pacific Itineraries
Loading...
Itineraries for current destination are unavailable
Expedition Highlights
Contrast the brightly lit metropolis of Tokyo with the narrow, winding streets of Kanazawa’s well-preserved samurai districts. Discover fascinating tales of feudal lords while visiting their castles, shrines, and gardens. And see firsthand how the Japanese have elevated everyday rituals—tea, sake, kimonos, sushi, floral arranging—into spectacular art forms. Only 400 of Japan’s nearly 7,000 islands are inhabited. Our explorations also take us beyond the populous borders of Honshu into wilder realms. Or snorkel through crystal waters that are home to sea turtles, manta rays, and the elusive Okinawa dugong. In Taiwan’s Yehliu Geopark, witness incredible hoodoo spires.
It is a privilege to visit Japan, a richly diverse and culturally fascinating geography. And to the privilege of cruising these islands, National Geographic Resolution adds the luxury of comfort—a quality of shipboard life and a philosophy of wellness designed to relax and revitalize body, mind, and spirit.
Expedition Spotlight: Japan, A Travel Photographer's Paradise
In this episode of Expedition Spotlight, Certified Photo Instructor and Naturalist David Cothran shares the inspired photo ops that abound in this beautiful island nation and how he helps guests realize their vision of Japan through composition, light, and storytelling.
Exploring Japan by Sea: From Matsue to Okinawa & Beyond
From the earliest explorers to Shōgun fans, and beyond, Western travelers have long known that the island nation of Japan is best explored by sea.
The History Behind Japan’s Most Beautiful Landscape Gardens
Japan's daimyo gardens have been open to the public since the end of the feudal era in the 19th century and have been exceedingly well-preserved, transporting travelers not only to a place of calm introspection but back centuries in time.
I came here having no idea what to expect, but it’s just been magical. The food, the scenery, the people, the wildlife, all of it.
Ken C.
Explore with top expedition teams
See, do, and learn more by going with engaging experts who have been exploring this region for decades.
Expedition Leader
Explore with a veteran expedition leader—the orchestrator of your experience. Many have advanced degrees and have conducted research or taught for years. They have achieved expedition leader status because they possess the skills, experience, and the depth of knowledge necessary to continually craft the best expedition possible for our guests.
Contemporary art and age-old religion, stunning architecture and iconic shrines, complex history and unique culture. Japan has captivated the imaginations of Westerners for eons. On our Far East itineraries, you’ll travel with passionate experts—a cultural specialist, a historian, and local guides—who will illuminate every facet to give you an intimate perspective on this distant land.
Sail with a team of four naturalists, each of whom is passionate about the geographies they explore (and return to regularly) and who help illuminate each facet through their enthusiasm and knowledge. Choose to spend time with whoever shares your interests in birding, human history, flora and fauna, and so much more.
Joining us on this expedition means signing up for adventure; and the reward for your curiosity is inevitable—the most exhilarating experience of pure discovery possible.