Mysterious, remote, little-known: on this premiere route in the Far East, the HANSEATIC nature visits island beauties that are often still blank spots on the map, even for specialists. Driven by curiosity and pioneering spirit, this cruise rewards a small circle of like-minded travellers with unimaginable experiences. Your starting point is the South Korean Jeju Island. You can best experience the charming landscape with volcanic peaks and lava tunnels on an island tour* or in Hallasan National Park*.

Near Busan, you can then marvel at the capital of the ancient Silla dynasty at the UNESCO World Heritage Site Gyeongju*, while the alternative coastal walk through Igidae Park* reveals Korea’s close relationship with nature.

You will be greeted by the rich contrasts of Japan – unbelievably vital and at the same time spellbinding – whose true beauty is still unknown to most Europeans. A veil of the past lies over Nagasaki to this day – from the moving history* around 1945 to Japan’s oldest stone bridge and oldest Christian church.

Your route towards understanding the soul of this country will take you off the typical tourist routes on the Goto Islands. On an island tour*, learn all about the history of Christianity in Japan, which originated here, or discover the culinary side of Japan at a traditional udon cookery class*.

The Nansei Islands stretch out over 1,000 km (621 mi.) like a “Japanese South Seas”. The lush landscape of Yakushima is accompanied by the sounds of the many bird species and macaques. The rainforest shrouds itself in mystery as the mist glides over the rhododendrons, mosses and lichens. Explore the bright subtropical character of Amami-Oshima. Fruit plantations and sandy beaches line crystal-blue bays. Here you can relax or go on an active kayak tour in the mangroves*. The excitement builds on board as you approach the premiere destination of Yoron-Shima, a secluded island idyll of unspoilt nature. The Zodiacs might also be used, depending on the local conditions.

In the endless expanses of the Pacific far from the familiar, your small expedition ship heads for another premiere destination: the Bonin Islands – extremely rarely visited and true uncharted territory, even for insiders. In this remote ecosystem, you will gain insights into evolutionary processes as they could only take place here. On Haha-Shima, you might spot the rare Bonin flying fox, one of over 190 endangered species in the archipelago. Chichi-Shima features impressive white beaches and rugged volcanic landscape. Your experts will impart exciting facts both on board and on land, and we also plan to go exploring with the Zodiacs.

Cruising off Tori-Shima will prepare you for the main island of Honshu. Your vantage points for the best views are found on the many open deck areas, on the glass balconies or on the nature Walk.

The impressive imperial palace, small temples, religious shrines, lively markets: in Tokyo, the rich culture of Japan meets the modern world of today. Take a walk exploring Japanese gardens and art* or take off on a helicopter flight*.

From Miyako, another premiere for Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, Sanriku Fukko National Park* reveals its magnificent flora and fauna including Japanese red pine trees, tabu trees and many seabirds. Alternatively, explore the rocky landscape on a coastal hike*.

The waters off Okushiri are known for abalones and sea urchins. Taste this exotic seafood very fresh and explore the island with your experts. By the end, you will have unravelled some of the mysteries of the “lost islands” in the Pacific and know why this cruise is considered a true insider tip.