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Tar Heel Travel

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From: travel@unc.edu
To:
Inland Sea of Japan & South Korea
April 25 - May 7, 2026
Trip flyer

  • Overview
  • Itinerary and Map
  • Pricing Details
  • Conditions
  • Resources

An island nation of unsurpassed natural beauty, Japan is laden with ancient spiritual rituals, rich culture and storied tradition. This 13–day, 12–night land and sea voyage showcases sites from the ethereal temples, jewel box pagodas and shogun castles of Kyoto to the latticed merchant houses of Hagi’s samurai district. On a specially arranged excursion to Miyajima's Itsukushima Shrine, marvel at its iconic "floating" Torii gate on the Seto Inland Sea. Explore eight different UNESCO World Heritage sites in two countries. Stroll through traditional landscaped gardens, dine on fresh local foods and sample saki.

In castles, temples, parks and memorial sites, discover the varied and unforgettable appeal of Japan and South Korea, featuring an 8–night, all-inclusive cruise on the expedition small ship Heritage Adventurer. Guest speaker Pico Iyer, a leading visionary on global culture and author of numerous books and essays, will enhance your journey with informative lectures and commentary. Augment your visit with a pre–tour extension in Tokyo and/or a post–tour extension in Osaka.

Day 1 - Depart U.S.Inland Sea of Japan Map
Day 2 - Osaka, Japan | Kyoto
Day 3 - Kyoto

Day 4 - Kyoto
Day 5 - Kyoto | Kobe | Himeji | Embark Heritage Adventurer

Day 6 - Miyajima | Hiroshima
Day 7 - Hagi
Day 8 - Sakaiminato | Matsue
Day 9 - Ulsan, South Korea
Day 10 - Nagasaki, Japan
Day 11- Fukuoka
Day 12 - Uno Ko
Day 13- Osaka | Disembark | Depart for gateway city

Base Price: From $9,495*, per person, based on double occupancy

    • Airfare additional

Discounts available:

    • Save $500 per person with Special Savings*, through May 15, 2025
    • Save $500 person with Full Payment Discount*, through May 15, 2025
      • *Must pay in full at the time of booking to receive discount
    • Both savings can be combined if booked by deadline and at the time of reservation

Inclusions:

    • 8 nights cruise and 3 night hotel stay in Kyoto.
    • 11 breakfasts, 8 lunches and 8 dinners and 3 receptions.
    • See tour flyer for details.

  • Tar Heel Travel is a member exclusive perk.
  • There must be one Carolina Alumni member in a room.  Membership is open to anyone.  Learn more.
  • By reserving on this tour, you agree to the terms and conditions specific to this tour which are set by the tour operator. This information can be found in the tour brochure.
  • The Carolina Alumni Travel Office and tour operator reserve the right to to decline or accept a reservation should a person's health, mental condition, physical infirmity or attitude jeopardize the operation of the tour or the rights, welfare, or enjoyment of other participants.  Refunds will be made in accordance with the cancellation policy listed in the tour brochure.