13 DAYS A GOURMET VOYAGE OF JAPAN’S HIDDEN SHORES

A Sojourn at Le Jacques-Cartier

Welcome onboard Le Jacques-Cartier, the beautiful vessel that marries the art of exploration and luxury.

As you build your anticipation towards your unforgettable exploration of Japan, you will enjoy the pampering of delicious dining led by Michelin-starred chef Alain Ducasse, as well as the exclusive “SAKE Relay” which brings premium sake from local breweries into the ship’s bar. At select ports, you will also enjoy exclusive live tuna cutting demonstration which will then be served onboard at peak freshness!

As the only exploration voyage in Japan with zodiacs, your journey is carefully crafted to bring you through the untouched landscapes of Japan which are inaccessible to large cruise ships. You will also be accompanied by expert naturalists to uncover priceless insights throughout the journey.

A Portrait of Mount Fuji

At Tagonoura, stand the sacred ground where Mount Fuji unveils its full, uninterrupted majesty that has inspired centuries of poets and artists, including the great haiku master Matsuo Bashō. Let your feet wander the historic port, feel the spiritual bond of local shrines, or explore the nearby historical sites.

A Taste of Ocean’s Bounty

A powerhouse among Japan’s top fishing harbours, Yaizu is synonymous with the Japan’s finest seafood offerings, especially the highly coveted bonito (katsuo) and and tuna. This is a truly authentic experience far from the hurried clamor of tourist trails.

Origin of the Pearls

A glittering jewel of the Pacific Ocean, Toba is renowned for its natural beauty and the luminous secret it holds: the cultivation of cultured pearls (home to the famed Mikimoto). Beyond the coast’s splendor, Toba offers passage to profound spirituality at the Ise Grand Shrine. This hallowed residence of the Imperial family is not just a landmark, but a sacred heart that is venerated by the locals as the very “soul of Japan”.

Spirit of Kumano Kodo

Let us whisk you into the ancient trail that has drawn pilgrims through the ages. Visit the famed Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine, perched dramatically over the mountainside while preserving the nation’s Shinto and Buddhist traditions. Nearby, the serene Seiganto-ji Temple is beautifully silhouetted against the cascading curtain of Nachi Falls, forming one of Japan’s most iconic landscapes.

At the Rhythm of the Ocean

Today, the journey becomes the destination. Enjoy free time at leisure to unwind and enjoy the ship facilities.

Cradle of Meiji Revolution

On the southern reaches of Honshu lies Hagi, inextricably woven into the delta of the Abu-gawa river. The history here is tangible, with the original 17^th century Hagi Castle now represented by its magnificent outer walls within the lovely Shizuki Park. The streets are a gallery of its past, lined with traditional homes ad stately samurai manors. Its deep cultural legacy awaits your explorations in the many museums and celebrated Hagi-yaki ceramic workshops.

A Pulse of Busan

As South Korea’s vibrant second metropolis, Busan pulses with a dynamic energy. Delight in its lively streets filled with sleek art galleries, museums and ancient Buddhist sanctuaries. Marvel at the breathtaking Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, perched elegantly on the water’s edge.

Echoes of the Samurai

Kyushu’s discreet port city of Shimonoseki holds a deep history rooted in seven centuries of samurai power. Beneath its veneer, Shimonoseki set the stage for ancient battles. Within its lively alleyways, you can find traditional market celebrated for its rewowned pufferfish (fugu).

Splendour of Miyajima

Our journey continues into the Seto Inland Sea. At its heart is the revered island sanctuary of Miyajiima, dominated by the majestic Shinto Grand Sanctuary. This unforgettable spectacle—the gate appearing to float on the water—earns Miyajima its place as one of the most iconic sites in Japan.

A Glimpse of the Edo Past

Nestled on the eastern edge of Ōsaki Shimojima Island, the fishing village of Mitarai is a quiet time capsule that transports you back into the Edo Period. Its narrow streets are lined with quaint 19^th century wooden dwellings, distinctive “gangi” stairs and ancient sanctuaries. This unique landscape, steeped in history, earned the old town official designation as a Preservation District in 1994.

From Industrial Past to Contemporary Art

A jewel of the Setouchi region, Inujima beckons with its traditional wooden village once known as the engine of the quarrying and smelting industry. Its high-quality granite was high in demand from the Edo period onwards, used for monumental projects including the Osaka Castle and the Okayama Castle. Inujima faced decline before underdoing a profound artistic rebirth as a hub for contemporary art.

A Farewell to Le Jacques-Cartier

Awake from your restful slumber as your sojourn concludes at the port city of Kobe, carrying with you the indelible memories of your extraordinary journey across Japan. We are happy to tailor-make your post-cruise extension to explore Kobe (known for its mouth-watering beef) or the surrounding region. Speak to one of our friendly Travel Specialists for more information.