Vibrant and full of historical significance, Hiroshima is home to magnificent memorials and shrines. Start the day with a visit to the beautiful Peace Park and Museum, with its somber cenotaph containing names of victims of the atomic bomb. Then, take a speedboat ride to Miyajima Island, site of the iconic Torii Gate and the Daisho-in Buddhist temple.

Or, enjoy a full-day excursion in Hiroshima, visiting the Hiroshima Castle and namesake Peace Park and Museum, where you attend a private talk with an atomic bomb survivor.

If you’d prefer a day in nature, head out to the tranquil island of Miyajima. Ascend Mount Misen by cable car for a hike and admire the Shinto Shrine and Torii Gate from above.

Spend the day in Uwajima, situated on the west coast of Shikoku and home to Japan’s main producers of pearls, for a glimpse of small-town living. Learn the process of cultivating and sorting pearls during a visit to a pearl farm. Continue to the samurai-era gardens of Tensha-en, with their spectacular mountain backdrop.

Alternatively, explore Nanraku-en Garden, the largest on Shikoku, and a scenic hike in Yakushidani Canyon.

Another option is to take a historic stroll to Yoshida along a cherry tree-lined lane, followed by an old town visit that includes an old kabuki theater. Return to the ship for a relaxing evening on board.

This afternoon, Le Laperouse arrives at the port of Karatsu. Once an early trading post between Japan and mainland Asia, Karatsu still maintains its medieval heritage.

Visit Karatsu Castle, known as the “flying crane castle.” Tour the Hikiyama Exhibition Hall, which houses the floats and artifacts used in the annual Karatsu Kunchi autumn festival.

Alternatively, head to Imari to visit pottery kilns and the Mifuneyama Rakuen garden.

Disembark and spend a full day exploring Gyeongju, South Korea, the ancient capital of the Shilla Dynasty and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Gyeongju’s cultural heritage dates back to the first millennium. Witness its excavated temples, tombs and pagodas.

Then, unearth the treasures of the National Museum, which houses an exceptional collection of jewellery, weapons and pottery. Sit down to a lunch of Korean delicacies and witness a traditional dance performance.

Return to Japan and disembark at Sakaiminato to visit Matsue, the “town of water.” Explore the countryside, pausing to wander through the picturesque Yuushien Garden.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before visiting historic Matsue Castle, one of Japan’s few remaining medieval castles, built in original wooden form.

Art lovers can visit the Adachi Museum of Art, which melds the founders’ passions for art and garden design.

After a traditional lunch at a ryokan (inn), visit Yakumo-mura village to learn about the art of Japanese paper making.

Spend the day in the thriving art center of Kanazawa, known for its Kutani-style pottery and gold-leaf workmanship, followed by a visit to Edo-period Kenrokuen Garden, considered among the best in Japan.

For a more active alternative, take a hike in Kakusenkei Gorge with a soothing onsen (spa) experience in the Yamanaka Onsen district. Wander Omicho Market with everything from fresh flowers to fish. Take a stroll in the Higashi Chaya-gai geisha district, where the slatted wooden façades of geisha houses are still preserved

Arrive at pastoral Sado Island, with its rice paddies, bamboo groves and surf-pounded seacoasts. Political exiles and deposed emperors were once “banished” to live on this beautiful isle.

Enjoy an exclusive, private performance by the Kodo taiko drummers, and visit the Hakusanmaru exhibition hall and Ogi Folk Cultural museum, followed by a farmer’s talk at the rice paddies.