Cherry Blossoms of Japan by Small Ship, with South Korea and Wonders of China

You will be met at Osaka airport and transferred to your hotel in Osaka. Enjoy a Welcome Dinner this evening where you will meet your Botanical Guides and fellow travellers.

Travel to Kyoto this morning for a full day of touring. Admire the exquisite rock garden at the Zen temple of Ryoan-ji. Continue to Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion. The grounds here are a fine example of Muromachi-period garden design. Enjoy a private lunch and maiko (apprentice geisha) performance. Gain insight into the life of maiko and geisha during this unique experience. After lunch we view the gardens of Ginkaku-ji, one of Kyoto’s most celebrated Zen temples. See the cherry blossoms in bloom along the Philosopher’s Path, before returning to Osaka.

Enjoy a morning at leisure before travelling to the port of Kobe. This afternoon, we board our ship, the MS Island Sky, our home for the next 10 nights.

Having cruised westward along the shores of Japan’s main island, we arrive in the city of Okayama. After breakfast, we visit Koraku-en Garden, one of Japan's most significant gardens, whose name means 'Garden of Pleasure After'. After lunch, continue to Kurashiki, where we explore the old merchant quarter and its fine 17th-century wooden warehouses. These elegant edifices, with facades painted white and traditional black tiled roofs, line a canal framed by weeping willows.

Our ship traverses the Seto Inland Sea, bringing us to the island of Shikoku, the smallest of the four main Japanese islands. Here we tour the stunning city of Takamatsu. Continue to Kinashi Bonsai Village before exploring Ritsurin Park, a 350-year-old garden famous for its spring colours and the Chrysanthemum Moon Scooping pavilion. Return to the ship for dinner this evening.

Arrive in Hiroshima and visit the compelling Peace Memorial Park. The park is dotted with memorials, including the cenotaph containing the names of all the known victims of the atomic bomb that was dropped on the city in 1945. After lunch, continue to Miyajima. Considered one of Japan's top scenic wonders, Miyajima provides postcard-perfect vistas of its scarlet torii gate, which stands before the Itsukushima Shrine. We go ashore by Zodiac to explore the shrine, founded in the sixth century AD and dedicated to three goddesses. The shrine is a designated World Heritage site.

Situated along the saw-toothed coast of Uwajima Bay is the city of Uwajima. Today you will have the option of choosing between two activities.

You may like to visit Tensha-en Garden, which was built during the Samurai era, and enjoy a special tea experience.

Perhaps visit Uwajima Castle instead. The castle’s strategic position atop a hill in the middle of the town provided for its defence against the threat of an approaching enemy. From the castle, you are able to enjoy panoramic views of the city below.

Arrive in Nagasaki, the second Japanese city destroyed by an atomic bomb during World War II. Tour the Nagasaki Peace Park, Atomic Bomb Museum and Glover Garden, also known as Madame Butterfly House. Continue to Dejima Island, built during the Edo Period to accommodate Portuguese Christian missionaries and prevent the propagation of their religion. It was also once the residential quarters of the Dutch, the only foreigners allowed to trade in Japan for 200 years during the period of isolation known as Sakoku. Japan’s fear of outside influence kept the country secluded from the rest of the world during this time. It remained that way until, at the behest of US Navy Commodore Matthew Perry, Japan signed the 1854 Treaty of Kanagawa, which permitted American ships to dock in two of its ports.

This morning, arrive on South Korea’s Jeju Island, an area full of natural wonders.

While here, you can choose to take a full-day tour taking in Camellia Hill Botanical Gardens, renowned for its stunning collection of more than 500 camellia varieties and scenic walking paths. Visit the Spirited Garden, which is replete with hundreds of bonsai plants. The garden was created by a single farmer, upon what was previously a wasteland of rocks. Afterwards, visit Osulloc Tea Museum, where you’ll learn about the art and tradition of Korean tea.

Alternatively, set off on a full-day visit to the Haenyeo Museum. Here you will learn about the legendary female free divers of Jeju. Then head to Sunrise Peak, a volcanic crater and one of Jeju’s most iconic landmarks. Finally, follow winding boardwalks across the Saryeoni Forest Path, a tranquil and enchanting woodland that offers a refreshing escape into nature. The forest is known for its dense canopy of Japanese cedars and cypress trees.

Reaching the South Korean mainland, our ship docks in the city of Ulsan.

While here, you have the option of heading out on a full-day tour, which takes in the Gyeongju National Museum, Bulguksa Temple and the sprawling Taehwagang National Garden, which features the Hoes-Oudolf Ulsan Garden, the first Piet Oudolf garden in Asia.

You may prefer to visit the Jagalchi Fish Market and the impressive Gwangan Grand Bridge.

Returning across the Korea Strait, we arrive back in Japan today. Visit the city of Matsue, known as the ‘City of Water’. Matsue is surrounded by the lakes Nakaumi and Shinji, as well as the Sea of Japan.

Choose to delve into Japan’s modern art and culture at the highly regarded Adachi Museum of Art. The museum’s adjoining garden is a masterpiece of modern design which has won many awards and accolades. This work of ‘natural art’ has been designed not to be entered, however, but to be admired only from select vantage points.

Or perhaps visit Yuushien Garden, celebrated for its profusion of peonies. Carefully timed planting means that visitors can see the peonies here year-round, in dedicated indoor and outdoor displays.

This morning, we visit one of Japan’s premier highlights, the famed Kenroku-en Garden, which is ranked as one of the country’s top three gardens. Afterwards, walk across to Kanazawa Castle, originally built in the late 16th century as the stronghold of the Maeda clan. It served as a vital centre of political and military power, reflecting the architectural resilience and strategic importance of Japan's feudal era. This afternoon, immerse yourself in Kanazawa’s culture with a visit to the Higashi Chaya-gai Geisha District. The town retains its traditional housing and layout, which reaches back to the Samurai era. While in Kanazawa, keep a lookout for some of the handcrafted items the region is famous for, including the kimono and gold leaf. This evening, we enjoy a Farewell Dinner aboard our ship.

Disembark the ship this morning and travel by bullet train from Kanazawa to Tokyo. Visit Roppongi Hills Mori Tower for panoramic views of Tokyo before arriving at your hotel.

Explore the sites of Tokyo today with a morning spent at Ueno Park and Toshogu Shrine Peony Garden. Follow this with a visit to Nezu shrine. Famed for its series of vermilion torii gates, it is also the site of the Azalea Festival during the month of April. The festival is a showcase of 3,000 azalea plants in 100 varieties, making it one of Tokyo’s most enchanting settings. This evening, enjoy a Farewell Dinner.

After breakfast today you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Shanghai, ready to experience the contrast in gardens and culture that awaits.

Begin your day with a scenic cruise along the Huangpu River, which presents panoramic views of Shanghai’s striking skyline. Gaze upon the soaring skyscrapers of Pudong, as well as the historical, colonial architecture of the Bund. After disembarking, wander the tranquil grounds of Yu Garden, a masterpiece of classical Chinese landscaping nestled in the heart of the Old City. Its elegant pavilions, koi-filled ponds, and intricately carved rockeries reflect the artistry of the Ming Dynasty. For lunch, indulge in a delectable dim sum feast, sampling a variety of steamed dumplings, buns, and savory treats that showcase the richness of Cantonese cuisine. As evening falls, prepare for a dazzling experience with premium seating at one of Shanghai’s renowned acrobatic shows, where gravity-defying stunts, vibrant costumes, and mesmerising choreography come together in a spectacle of world-class performance.

Leave the bustling metropolis of Shanghai behind as you journey to the water town of Jinxi, a peaceful oasis renowned for its charming canals, arched stone bridges, and centuries-old architecture. Glide along tranquil waterways during a traditional boat ride, passing whitewashed houses and willow trees lining the banks. After exploring Jinxi’s quaint alleys and cultural relics, continue to Suzhou, known as the ‘Venice of the East’. Its classical gardens, silk heritage, and beautiful scenery lend it a timeless elegance. Visit the Humble Administrator’s Garden, the largest and most celebrated of the city’s classical gardens. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this Ming Dynasty masterpiece features a harmonious blend of winding pathways, lotus-filled ponds, elegant pavilions, and meticulously arranged rockeries. Stroll through the tranquil garden, appreciating the traditional Chinese philosophy of balance between nature and architecture.

Today visit a Suzhou silk art and product gallery to see its silk-making processes. Then visit Tiger Hill, one of Suzhou’s most storied landmarks. Wander its scenic gardens and ancient temples, and marvel at the leaning Yunyan Pagoda, often called the ‘Second Leaning Tower of Pisa’. During spring, the hill bursts with vibrant colour, its azaleas blooming in shades of pink, red, and white. Within the grounds of Tiger Hill, Wanjing Villa features an exquisite display of miniature gardens, showcasing classical Chinese design. This evening, experience Suzhou’s cultural soul at the enchanting Night Garden of the Master of the Nets. Enjoy traditional Suzhou music and opera as you meander across the garden’s moonlit, atmospheric courtyards. This magical night-time setting showcases performances taking place in various parts of the grounds, which makes for a delightful sensory experience.

This morning, transfer by bullet train, travelling first class, to Yichang, gateway to the majestic Yangtze River. Upon arrival, board the luxurious Yangzi Explorer, our floating home for the next four nights. Settle into your elegant cabin and prepare for a memorable cruise of China’s most celebrated waterway, whose dramatic gorges, ancient villages, and cultural wonders await.

Today, embark on a full-day excursion to the UNESCO World Natural Heritage site, Shennongjia National Park, renowned for its towering peaks, rising more than 3,000 metres and known as the ‘Roof of Central China’. Discover the Guanmenshan Scenic Area, home to a natural exhibition hall, a unique botanical garden and a giant panda pavilion. Encounter a variety of rare plants and animals within the vast nature reserve, including golden snub-nosed monkeys, which are a protected species in China. Shennongjia National Park purports to be ‘the only well preserved sub-tropical forest ecosystem in the world’s mild latitudes’, with more than 5,000 species of animals and plants.

After breakfast, the Yangzi Explorer sails past the soaring, forest-clad peaks of Wu Gorge and Qutang Gorge, which form part of China’s famous Three Gorges system. Upon arrival in Fengjie, a choice of excursion is available:

— Discover a historic fortress perched above Qutang Gorge. Wander its exhibition halls, showcasing calligraphy, paintings, and artefacts that chronicle centuries of regional heritage. Take in sweeping views of Kuimen, ‘Gate of the Gorge’, depicted on China's 10 yuan note.

— Set out on a one-hour trek of the Poetic Trail, ascending narrow switchbacks hewn into the gorge walls. This encounter with the natural landscape has inspired travellers for generations.

— Transfer to the Three Gorges Summit viewing platform to watch a spectacular sunset over the gorges’ highest peaks.

After dinner, learn more about Fengjie during a lecture by a local scholar.

This morning, the Yangzi Explorer docks in Shibao in Zhongxian, a region steeped in history and culture. After breakfast, select one of three specially curated excursions:

— Discover the ancient Shibaozhai pavilion, one of China’s few surviving multi-storey wooden structures. The pavilion’s gleaming silhouette has earnt it the nickname ‘Nine Heavens’.

— A short ferry ride across the river brings you to Xituo, a vital hub of the salt trade since before the Qin Dynasty. Wander mist-shrouded Yunti Street, admiring its ancient architecture.

— Explore the ruins of Huanghua Island’s ancient city walls, which date back to the Song Dynasty.

Return to the Yangzi Explorer, having been enriched by the region’s architecture, traditions and legends.

After a final breakfast aboard the Yangzi Explorer, we disembark in the vibrant city of Chongqing. This mountainous metropolis is perched above the Yangtze River. Our morning begins with a visit to the Chongqing Zoo, home to one of China’s most beloved national treasures – the giant panda. Enjoy the rare opportunity to observe these gentle creatures, as they munch on bamboo and lounge in their leafy enclosures. The zoo is also home to other native and endangered species. Later today, we transfer to the airport for a flight to Xi’an, the ancient capital of thirteen dynasties and the eastern terminus of the Silk Road. Upon arrival, settle into your hotel and prepare for the next chapter of your journey through China’s storied past.

Today, we stand before one of the most fascinating archaeological discoveries of the 20th century – the Terracotta Army. Unearthed in 1974, this vast collection of life-sized clay soldiers, horses, and chariots was created more than 2,000 years ago to guard the tomb of China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. The intricate craftsmanship and individual features of each figure remain well-preserved despite centuries spent underground. We continue our discoveries of Qin history this afternoon at the Museum of Qin, which reveals the dynasty’s innovations, military prowess, and cultural legacy. As evening falls, immerse yourself in the colour and vibrancy of the Tang Dynasty Show, which showcases the music, dance, and traditional costumes of imperial Xi’an. Cap off the night with a sumptuous dumpling banquet, featuring a variety of flavours and the culinary artistry of Shaanxi province.

This morning, board a sleek bullet train, travelling in first class on a comfortable and scenic journey from Xi’an to Beijing, China’s dynamic capital and political heart. Traveling at speeds of up to 300 km/h, the train provides glimpses of the region’s changing landscapes, from rural villages and farmland to the sprawling urban outskirts of Beijing. On arrival in the capital, dive straight into the city’s imperial past with a visit to Tiananmen Square, one of the largest public squares in the world and a symbol of modern China. The square is surrounded by monumental architecture, including the Great Hall of the People and the National Museum. Then look upon the Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site that served as the imperial palace for 24 emperors during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Wander its vast courtyards, ornate halls, and golden-roofed pavilions, each echoing centuries of dynastic power and ceremonial grandeur.

Today promises to be one of the most memorable of your journey. Our visit to the legendary Great Wall of China grants us time to appreciate this marvel of ancient engineering that stretches for more than 21,000 kilometres across northern China. Travel to the Mutianyu section of the wall, which is renowned for its scenic beauty and well-preserved fortifications. It is also less crowded than other parts of the Great Wall, granting us a more serene and immersive experience. Ascend via cable car, taking in sweeping views of the surrounding mountains, to reach the summit of the wall. Walk along its ancient stone path while contemplating the centuries of history and labour that went into its construction. Return to Beijing later this afternoon with a deeper appreciation for China’s enduring legacy.

During our final full day in China, we immerse ourselves in the tranquillity and elegance of Beijing’s imperial retreats. Begin with a visit to the Summer Palace, a masterpiece of classical Chinese architecture and landscape design. Once the favoured escape of China’s emperors during the sweltering summer months, the palace complex features ornate halls, marble bridges, and the serene Kunming Lake, all framed by lush gardens and rolling hills. Stroll through the Imperial Garden, whose winding pathways, ancient pavilions, and vibrant floral displays evoke the grandeur of the Qing Dynasty.

Continue to the nearby Beijing Botanical Gardens, a peaceful haven showcasing thousands of plant species from across China and beyond. Wander its themed gardens, featuring peony and orchid collections, and admire the seasonal blooms that adorn the grounds in rich colour. As evening falls, gather with your fellow travellers for a celebratory Peking Duck Farewell Dinner. Savour Beijing’s most iconic dish in a festive setting, which makes for a fitting end to our journey.

This morning, after breakfast, transfer to the airport where your tour concludes.