Coastal Cruise
28 day Japan, South Korea and China Cruise & Rail journey
Cherry Blossoms of Japan by Small Ship, with South Korea and Wonders of China
Combine the ephemeral beauty of Japan’s cherry blossoms with the majesty of eastern China. Cruise the islands of Japan aboard MS Island Sky over 10 nights. Visit the Geisha District of Kanazawa and the Adachi Museum of Art. Admire Kenroku-en and Koraku-en gardens. And explore the South Korean city of Ulsan and Jeju Island. Our explorations of China bring us to Shanghai and the canals of Suzhou. Embark the Yangzi Explorer for a cruise of the Three Gorges. Stand before the Terracotta Army and discover Beijing’s Forbidden city, the Summer Palace and the Great Wall of China. See two of China’s finest classical gardens, as well as Tiger Hill, which features vibrant blooms of azaleas. In fact, many of the ornamental and garden plants now cultivated in Australia – such as camellias, azaleas and magnolias – trace their origins to China, reflecting centuries of horticultural exchange.
This journey departs:
31 March 2027
Highlights
The following highlights provide an overview of some of the captivating encounters awaiting you on tour.
Cruise Aboard MS Island Sky
Enjoy a 10-night small ship cruise from Osaka to Kanazawa. Reach the island of Miyajima aboard our ship’s Zodiacs.
Admire Japan’s Strolling Gardens
See two of Japan’s top gardens, Kenroku-en and Koraku-en, as well as the beautiful ponds and pavilions of Ritsurin Park.
Visit Beijing’s Summer Palace
Absorb the grandeur of Beijing’s Summer Palace, overlooking the serene waters of Kunming Lake. Wander pathways through the Imperial Garden and admire its vibrant floral displays.
The Great Wall of China
Marvel at China’s ancient wonder, which stretches for more than 21,000 kilometres. Travel to the Mutianyu section, renowned for its well-preserved fortifications.
Kanazawa’s Geisha District
Wander the traditional streets of this renowned region with roots in the Samurai era.
Adachi Museum of Art
Admire the meticulous and award-winning garden design of Adachi Museum of Art.
Expert Botanical Guides
Be escorted by four expert Botanical Guides throughout the journey who will bring the gardens to life - Simon Rickard (Japan), Steve Falcioni (Japan), Sophie Holloway (Japan) and Jac Semmler (China).
Inclusions
See below for an overview of your tour’s inclusions and featured sightseeing.
Escorted by expert Botanical Guides and a Cruise Director
10-night cruise aboard MS Island Sky, taking up to 100 guests, thirteen nights’ accommodation in centrally located four- to five-star hotels, and four nights aboard the luxurious Yangzi Explorer
Return private transfers from door to door, tipping and porterage, port taxes, plus 74 meals and select beverages
All sightseeing, shore excursions, flights, train travel and entrance fees as per the itinerary
Experience Japan during cherry blossom season. Visit iconic gardens, including Kyoto’s Ryoan-ji and Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), and Kanazawa’s Kenroku-en – one of Japan’s Three Great Gardens
See Miyajima Island’s ‘floating’ torii gate, enjoy a traditional maiko (apprentice geisha) performance over lunch, and immerse yourself in Kyoto’s cultural elegance
In China, stroll through two of its most exquisite classical gardens: The Humble Administrator’s Garden in Suzhou and Beijing’s Summer Palace Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage site
Marvel at the Terracotta Warriors, walk a section of the Great Wall of China, savour regional delicacies, and cruise the breathtaking Yangtze River over four nights
Itinerary
Your day-by-day itinerary details the gardens and other sights that make up your journey.
Trip Notes
Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change
Fitness rating: High
Private charter for up to 100 guests aboard the small ship MS Island Sky. To view deck plans, visit www.botanica.travel/cruise-fleet
Our experience of gardens, their flora, and other aspects of nature, is subject to weather conditions and seasonality, which may vary