Hapag-Lloyd has highlighted Japan as one of its most popular itineraries, with the 2026 season now underway aboard the Hanseatic inspiration.
The cruise line said in a statement that additional Japan sailings aboard the Hanseatic spirit, Europa and Europa 2 were added for 2027 and 2028 due to strong demand.
Guests can explore all four of Japan’s main islands, Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu and Shikoku on select expedition routes, while smaller ports and remote regions can be accesses with small ships and Zodiacs.
One standout 19-day itinerary from Japan to Alaska via Hokkaido and the Aleutian Islands includes a new Alaskan trolling excursion where guests can fish for Chinook salmon and enjoy their catch prepared onboard.
Another itinerary is an art2sea voyage from Tokyo to Hong Kong May 15–June 2, 2027, offering exclusive access to museums, galleries and cultural figures across Japan and China.
Guests can visit destinations such as the Kirishima Open Air Museum and Beijing’s 798 Art Zone while engaging with artists, collectors and creatives both onboard and ashore.
Other example itineraries include:
- Japanese culture and Chinese cities (15 May–Jun 2, 2027) – from Tokyo to Hong Kong
- Unknown Japan and South Korea: a meeting of opposites (June 13–26, 2027) – from Inchon (Seoul) to Tomakomai
- Japan’s splendor in full bloom (March 20–April 8, 2028) – sailing from Yokohama to Ho Chi Minh City
