Traditional Japanese Cruise with Ponant – Save up to 30%*

DAY 1 – OSAKA

Like its big sister Tokyo, Osaka is the product of ancestral traditions and amazing technological innovations. And despite its size, its location on the Pacific Ocean give it a sense of serenity. The main historic landmark is the 16th century Osaka Castle, which stands proud in the midst of majestic skyscrapers. The lively streets of Dotomburi and the bizarre Shinsekai district attract thousands of locals and visitors. A multitude of restaurants offer menus full of regional specialities: takoyaki, made with octopus, and other succulent dishes such as kushikatsu kebabs.

Embarkation 29/09/27 from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm

Departure 29/09/27 at 7:00 pm

DAY 2 – TAKAMATSU

A former fortified city, ruled over by the Matsudaira clan from the Tamamo castle with its seawater moats, the city is home to one of the most beautiful classic gardens in Japan, the Ritsurin. It was created by the barons of the city at the start of the Edo period, during which time gardening became a profession in its own right. Its landscape incorporates Mount Shiun in the background, an example of what is known as the shakkei technique, which uses the surrounding landscapes to increase the beauty of the gardens.

Arrival 30/09/27 early morning

Departure 30/09/27 early evening

DAY 3 – MIYAJIMA ISLAND to HIROSHIMA

At the heart of the Inland Sea, Miyajima, the “island sanctuary” will reveal its treasures. In the background you will see the Shinto Grand Sanctuary, whose entrance is guarded by a magnificent vermillion “Torii“. Considered to be one of the most beautiful sites in the Japanese islands, you will be transported by the unique character and the serenity of this sacred site.

Arrival 01/10/27 at night

Departure 01/10/27 midday

Visiting Hiroshima is a moving experience. The town spreads along Honshu Island, along the inside coasts of Seto. While firmly focused on the future, Hiroshima doesn’t forget its past, and a visit to the Peace Memorial Park and Genbaku Dome is a must. You’ll enjoy the city’s modern, cosmopolitan atmosphere and effervescent nightlife just as much as the peaceful stillness of its natural parkland areas such as splendid Shukkei-en, the town’s historic garden.

Arrival 01/10/27 midday

Departure 01/10/27 evening

DAY 4 – BEPPU, OITA

A favourite destination for the Japanese, Beppu is now famous throughout the Japanese archipelago thanks to its onsen – volcanic hot springs in which people immerse themselves to relax with family or friends. From Beppu, you will set off to discover a lush, peaceful valley in which sit 60 majestic stone Buddhas carved out of the cliff face between the 12th and 14th centuries. Exuding a soothing air of serenity, the Mangetsuji site seems to have drifted off to sleep in the heart of a dense bamboo forest surrounded by rice fields. Recognised as a National Treasure of Japan, this set of sacred sculptures offers travellers a unique, wonderful experience.

Arrival 02/10/27 early morning

Departure 02/10/27 evening

DAY 5 – HAGI

In the south of Honshu island, surrounded by mountains, Hagi is a city of water. For good reason; it was built on the delta of the Abu-gawa river. Its castle was built in the 17th century and its outer walls remain in the lovely Shizuki Park. The old town was one of the cradles of the Meiji revolution. You will discover its rich past in streets lined with old houses and samurai manors, or within the walls of the many museums and Hagi-yaki ceramics workshops.

Arrival 03/10/27 midday

Departure 03/10/27 late afternoon

DAY 6 – TOTTORI

On the San-in coast, Tottori, the Japanese island of Honshu’s northernmost city, offers tranquillity and a change of scenery. Lined with lush forests containing mountain sanctuaries long considered to have been the homes of the gods, Tottori has retained its authenticity of yesteryear. A symbol of Japan off the beaten track, this city in the eponymous region promises to be a surprising interlude on your cruise. With good reason, since this ancient fortified city with vestiges of its past is home to the largest sand dunes in Japan. Bright sunshine, golden dunes edged by the Sea of Japan, camels with a captivating gait… Here, in this majestic landscape where wind waves rise to caress the sand giants, time seems to stand still.

Arrival 04/10/27 early morning

Departure 04/10/27 late afternoon

DAY 7 – INE to MIYAZU

In the north of the Kyoto prefecture, along the Sea of Japan and anchored in the Bay of Ine, this small fishing village nestling between lush green mountains and emerald waters is considered to be one of Japan’s most beautiful villages. Calm and picturesque, Ine has successfully preserved its authenticity of yesteryear, as evidenced by the Funaya, these traditional wooden dwellings built above the water to house fishermen and store their small boats. Ine will take you on a beguiling voyage into the 18th century, to the epoch of Edo and the Kitamae trade route.

Arrival 05/10/27 early morning

Departure 05/10/27 midday

In Kyoto Prefecture, along the coast of the Sea of Japan, lies the charming city of Miyazu. As you explore this interesting blend of lush nature and rich heritage, you will be captivated by the numerous places of worship that dot the town, such as the Manai Shrine and Nariai-ji Temple. You will also discover one of the “Three Views of Japan”, the country’s most beautiful panoramas: Amanohashidate, a sand bar covered with 8,000 pine trees, lying between the Asokai Inland Sea and Miyazu Bay. It is known as the “bridge to heaven” and legend has it that this sand bank is a ladder that fell out of the sky and was once used by the gods Izanagi and Izanami to ascend into the clouds.

Arrival 05/10/27 midday

Departure 05/10/27 late afternoon

DAY 8 – SAKAIMINATO

Located on the south-west coast of Honshu Island, the busy fishing port of Sakaiminato celebrates the comic writer and artist Shigeru Mizuki, who was born here. As well as a museum a dedicated tourist route leads through streets and squares that feature 134 bronze statues representing his beloved characters. This isn’t the only thing Sakaiminato has to offer; try some local seafood specialities and enjoy the stunning views of Mt Daisen and the Yumigahama peninsula.

Arrival 06/10/27 early morning

Departure 06/10/27 midday

DAY 9 – BUSAN

With around four million inhabitants, Busan is the second largest metropolis on South Korea, after Seoul. This dynamic harbour city, located in the south-east, surrounded by the warm waters of the Sea of Japan, benefits from a mild, pleasant climate. You’ll find delightful simply to stroll around the lively streets and explore the city’s outstanding cultural heritage of art galleries, museums, and Buddhist sites, such as the Haedong Yonggungsa temple, which elegantly sits on the waterfront. Rich too in magnificent beaches and superlative natural landscapes, Busan’s peaceful atmosphere will win you over, as will its inhabitants, whom you’ll have the pleasure of meeting.

Arrival 07/10/27 early morning

Disembarkation 07/10/27 at 8:00 am

Le Soléal

Le Soléal is a modern expedition yacht that combines contemporary design with French elegance, creating an intimate and refined atmosphere at sea. The ship’s staterooms and suites are designed to provide comfort and sophistication, with stylish interiors and private balconies that allow guests to enjoy uninterrupted views of the ocean and surrounding landscapes.

On board, gastronomy is an essential part of the experience, with restaurants offering refined cuisine inspired by French culinary traditions. Guests can relax in elegant lounges and bars, socialise in welcoming public spaces, or enjoy the panoramic pool deck while taking in the scenery. The ship also features a theatre for lectures and entertainment, a boutique, and a wellness area including a spa and fitness facilities, ensuring that every voyage combines luxury, comfort, and the spirit of exploration.

STATEROOMS & SUITES

Included in all staterooms:

• Minibar
• Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
• Bose Bluetooth speaker
• Individually-controlled air conditioning
• Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
• Dressing room with shelves and closet
• Dressing table and hairdryer
• Direct line telephone
• Three ADA staterooms
• 24-hour room service
• Electronic safe
• Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
• Inclusive Wifi internet

Window or Porthole Stateroom

• One king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm)
• 21 m² / up to 3 Guests
• Bathroom with shower
• Window (except cabin 300 : porthole)

Upper Deck Balcony Stateroom

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:

• A private 43 ft² balcony
• 18 m² / up to 2 Guests
• A sliding panoramic window
• Bathroom with shower
• One king-size bed(180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm) and TV

Prestige Suite

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:

• Priority boarding, depending on port of embarkation (Suite Prestige deck 6)
• 37 m² / up to 4 guests
• Butler service (Prestige Suite deck 6)
• Champagne and fruit basket upon arrival and a fruit basket every day (Prestige Suite deck 6)
• A bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
• A lounge with convertible sofa to a king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm), armchairs, second TV, and sliding courtesy door
• Two bathrooms with shower
• A private 8 m² balcony
• Two panoramic sliding bay windows

GASTRONOMY
An essential component of French culture, gastronomy naturally holds a special place on board.

Gourmet restaurant – L’Éclipse

At the back of deck 2, our gourmet restaurant, complete with wine cellar, offers French and international cuisine. It can accommodate all guests in a single service for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Grill restaurant – Le Pythéas

In a relaxed atmosphere, our grill restaurant located on deck 6 welcomes you for breakfast, buffet lunches and themed dinners.

The main lounge room

Tea room, bar, live music, dance floor, terrace: the main lounge is an essential meeting place throughout your journey.

The observatory lounge

Library, internet space, bar, occasional live entertainment, terrace: enjoy a 180° panorama of the horizon from the observatory lounge.

The outdoor bar

Enjoy a drink in the 50-capacity outdoor lounge area, with a view of the sea and the pool bridge.

With its water blending into the surrounding landscapes, the pool is perfect for relaxing in the sun.

Other Features

Dedicated to self-care and well-being, the spa—created in partnership with SOTHYS™ and Davines®—offers a range of treatments, massages and hairdressing services, as well as a sauna and fitness room.

In the theatre, comfortably seated guests can attend conferences led by guest speakers and teams of naturalists, or enjoy a variety of shows, concerts and performances by professional dancers and musicians.

Extending the journey, la Boutique offers an exclusive shopping experience with ready-to-wear, equipment, jewellery, accessories and unique souvenirs, with all purchases on board tax-free