Japan

Small Ship Cruises & Expeditions

Uncover the Essence of Japan on a Small Ship Cruise

Japan offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition, making it an ideal destination for small ship cruising. On a cruise, you can explore Tokyo's vibrant cityscape and ancient traditions, Osaka's lively atmosphere and culinary delights, and Hiroshima's poignant history and Peace Memorial. Hokkaido provides stunning views from Mount Hakodate and a mix of international architecture, while Kobe showcases its multicultural heritage and renowned Kobe beef. Shimizu offers the iconic sight of Mount Fuji, a perfect backdrop for your journey. Cruising Japan by small ship allows you to experience the country's diverse culture and scenic beauty in an intimate and immersive way.

Japan Highlights

Benefits of Booking with Wild Earth Travel

Wild Earth Travel is owned and operated by expedition leaders with over 30 years' experience voyaging, leading and creating expeditions all over the globe.

• We Are Travellers. Our team of small ship cruise specialists is very well travelled. We have led small ship cruises all over the world and experienced the most unique and fascinating corners of the planet, and we love sharing our experiences with you!

• Unbiased Advice. Our team are all passionate expedition and small cruise ship travellers, and our knowledge and stories come from our own personal experiences, which we then use to match you with the best small ship options for you.

• Largest Choice Providers. Our collection of small ship cruises is constantly growing, we now feature over 1200 cruises aboard more than 80 small ships. Our insider knowledge of the industry means there is barely a ship or a destination worldwide that we haven't experienced.

• Convenience Matters. We offer you the ability to pay in the original currency of the ship operator, meaning that you won't pay more in currency buffers. You can be assured that you are in safe hands as our team of specialists guide you through the entire booking process.

• Personalised Service. As you prepare for your cruise, we will be in touch to ensure you have everything you need, from packing lists and suggested reading lists to pre- and post- transfers and accommodation. For some cruises, there may be the option to add on extra activities.

• Trusted Relationships. As a popular expedition destination, there are many cruise suppliers in Japan. Over our many years of travelling to Japan, we have established trusted relationships with local suppliers to deliver our clients the best of the Land of the Rising Sun.

Featured Japan Cruises

Below is a selection of the expedition cruises we offer to Japan. Our collection ranges from 7 to 32 days, and from adventure and expedition to luxury-style ships.

Asia / Japan

Secular Treasures in the Land of the Rising Sun - Japan Luxury Cruise

8 days from
$1,465 AUD per day
  • Japan Luxury ExpeditionLuxury Expedition
  • Secular Treasures in the Land of the Rising Sun - Japan Luxury Cruise in Japan: ship
  • Next departure on April 5, 2025
Selling out!
Asia / Japan

Timeless Japan - Cultural Treasures & Ancient Wonders

16 days from
£656 GBP per day
  • Japan Luxury Small Ship CruiseLuxury Small Ship Cruise
  • Timeless Japan - Cultural Treasures & Ancient Wonders in Japan: ship
  • Next departure on May 14, 2026
Asia / Japan

Discover The Islands Of Japan: A 12-day Voyage of Japan Between Tokyo & Osaka, Incl. South Korea

12 days from
$1,100 AUD per day
Selling out!
Asia / Japan

Eternally Sacred Japan & South Korea: 11-day Japan Voyage Between Tokyo and Osaka, Incl. South Korea

11 days from
$1,091 AUD per day
Asia / Japan

Japan's National Parks, Art & Culture: A Circumnavigation of Honshu, Osaka - Kobe to Kobe, Incl. South Korea

16 days from
$1,100 AUD per day
Asia / Japan

Japan, Natural Archipelago and Secular Heritage Luxury Cruise

9 days from
$1,352 AUD per day
Asia / Japan

Authentic Japan - Luxury Cruise

13 days from
$1,196 AUD per day
  • Japan Luxury ExpeditionLuxury Expedition
  • Authentic Japan - Luxury Cruise in Japan: ship
  • Next departure on March 24, 2026
Asia / Japan

Western Pacific Odyssey - Extension: The Ultimate Birding Voyage from New Zealand, via Papua New Guinea, to Japan

25 days from
$674 AUD per day
Asia / Japan

From Tokyo to Tokyo - Experience Everything Japan Has to Offer

12 days from
$1,325 AUD per day
  • Japan Luxury Small Ship CruiseLuxury Small Ship Cruise
  • From Tokyo to Tokyo - Experience Everything Japan Has to Offer in Japan: ship
  • Next departure on Oct. 2, 2025

If you'd like to learn about some of our other Japan itineraries, please contact us. You may also be interested additional Asia cruising destinations including South East Asia, Indonesia or India.

Watch Our Japan Webinar

Ready to Learn More?

We look forward to helping you plan an incredible adventure to Japan

Choose Your Adventure!