2017 - APT Small Ships

66 Islands in the Sun... Wherever you go in Japan, the sea is not far away and it laps the shore along the spectacular coastline. Historically, Japan was never much of a maritime nation. For 250 years it was largely closed to the outside world and Japanese were banned from leaving the country under pain of death. Fishermen were not supposed to sail out of sight of the shogun's coastguards, though some were washed away or shipwrecked. Beyond Matsue the coastline becomes more rugged and sparsely populated. We drop anchor at Hagi, the capital of the Choshu, the fiercest of the clans who finally toppled the shogun's regime in the 1860s. In 1863 Choshu cannons fired on foreign ships. A Choshu youth, Ito Hirobumi, had sneaked off to London to study, even though travel abroad was punishable by death. Reading in The Times that the British, American, Dutch and French navies were about to bombard Choshu, Hirobumi took the next ship home to warn his clansmen. He was too late; but in the end a revolution was successful and Ito Hirobumi became Japan's first prime minister. We tack along the craggy coastline past tiny inlets and fishing villages tucked into the cliffs, heading for the gracious old city of Kanazawa, once the capital of the wealthy Maeda lords. Meandering paths wind across arched bridges, past stone lanterns, artfully-manicured pine trees and a mossy-roofed tea house towards the lake at the top of the hill. Suddenly we're back in the modern world, but happy to have experienced a more ancient and tranquil Japan. – Lesley Downer (Small Ship Guest) Timeless Japan (NOBCOT12) Asia Equally enticing as exotic, Asia will captivate and enchant you. Take a deep breath and let your senses run wild. Whether you want to discover the hidden isles of Japan or navigate the waters of Southeast Asia, a small ship cruise guarantees you a delightful immersion into the vibrant culture of Asia. Hidden Jewels of Japan As you uncover Japan's hidden wonders, you're sure to be spellbound by the magnificent landscapes. Visit one of the country's most famed gardens, Koraku-en, then arrive in Hiroshima to visit the compelling Peace Memorial Park. Explore pristine islands filled with verdant landscapes and further delve into incredible World War II history in Nagasaki. Hop across to South Korea's Jeju-do, a protected Biosphere Reserve, then uncover the secrets of the Shilla Dynasty in Kyongju. Complete your adventure at lightning speed as you travel on the Bullet Train to the metropolis of Tokyo. A Southeast Asian Odyssey Discover the East Indies on an exciting expedition cruise, exploring the Philippines, Indonesia and Malaysian Borneo. Discover the unique ecosystem at Puerto Princesa, encounter formidable Komodo dragons and be intrigued by a fascinating overnight experience in Torajaland. www.aptouring.com.au

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