Venture to the Mariana Islands to uncover pivotal World War II history at Tinian and Iwo Jima. Explore the pristine marine environments of Rota, Pagan and Maug island. As we continue to the Japanese Ogasawara and Izu archipelagos, be among the first visitors from abroad to explore remote Japanese islands including Chichijima, Hahajima and Mukujima. Step ashore to witness the lifestyle of traditional Japanese fishing villages, encounter native wildlife and take to the water to discover untouched marine ecosystems. Be immersed in local culture by witnessing the traditional kashitate dance and hachijo taiko drum performance at Hachijojima. Explore Shimizu’s bustling seafood market and take to the hiking trail to enjoy rustic ropeways and unparalleled views of Mt. Fuji’s iconic silhouette. Join us on an adventure combining history, culture and striking biodiversity as we venture to the Japan that lies off the beaten track.
- Enjoy time exploring the rich biodiversity of the Northern Mariana Islands of Rota, Pagan and Maug by swimming, snorkelling and diving in its aquamarine waters
- Visit three of the UNESCO World Heritage Site listed Ogasawara Islands: Hahajima, Chichijima and Mukojima
- Learn of WWII history at Tinian, where the Enola Gay was loaded with the atomic bomb that was dropped on Hiroshima and see the famous location of the ‘Raising the Flag’ at Iwo Jima
- Visit the Hattori residence to experience the kashitate dance and hear the traditional hachijo taiko drum performance
- On the volcanic ash slopes of Torijima, view the largest known population short-tailed albatrosses that are known to breed on only four islands in the North Pacific
- Enjoy bird watching opportunities with possible sightings of rare endemic species including the Izu Island thrush of Mikurajima
- Visit Shimizu, one of Japan’s most scenic ports with unparalleled views of Mt. Fuji and explore the rich tea plantations located on the Nihondiara Plateau
- Learn about unique geology, botany and wildlife including encounters with whales, dolphins, schools of tuna and green sea turtles as we visit remote Japanese islands