Best of Japan and South Korea

Depart 5:00pm

Seoul (Incheon), South Korea: Incheon is South Korea’s third-largest metropolis and the largest seaport on the west coast. This capital city is a mix of modern skyscrapers, sophisticated complexes (like the 1988 Olympic Games complex), ancient royal palaces, ornate Buddhist temples and tranquil gardens. A Seoul cruise offers memorable experiences such as watching the sunset over the ocean from Janghang Skywalk, wiggling your toes in fine, silver sand of Sangju, sitting on the rocks along the shore, sport fishing for the day and being dazzled by red and blue silk-covered lanterns lighting up the trees at night. Hike to either the top of Bukhan Mountain or Namsan Mountain, where you’ll enjoy 360-degree views of downtown Seoul. The city is also brimming with great dining options, from five-star Asian cuisine to grab-and-go at the famous Gwangjang Market.

While at sea, indulge in some well-deserved relaxation before your next adventure. Unwind by the pool, pamper yourself at the spa, savor exquisite cuisine, or discover the unique venues on board. Your next incredible destination awaits.

Arrive 7:00am; Depart 5:00pm

South Korea’s tropical island paradise will enchant you with its sandy beaches, swaying palm trees and amazing volcanic landscape. Need a break from your beach towel? Waterfalls, museums, folk villages, scuba diving, hiking and festivals galore will keep you busy. Explore the colorful coral and sea life with a scuba dive off the coast of laid-back Seogwipo. Take an underground stroll through the world’s longest lava-tube cave at Manjanggul.

Arrive 7:00am; Depart 6:00pm

Historically rich Nagasaki features beautiful seaside scenery and fabulous nighttime views from its mountain slopes. Secluded hot springs, fascinating museums, and ornate temples live side by side in this exciting city. Ten natural parks grace the area, and unique festivals can be experienced throughout the year. Walk through streets influenced by both Chinese and European cultures in fascinating Nagasaki.

Arrive 7:00am; Depart 4:00pm

Kagoshima is the southernmost city on Japan’s bullet train network and the capital of Kagoshima Prefecture. The city is often compared with its Italian sister city, Naples, due to a similarly mild climate, streets lined with palm trees, and Sakurajima, Kagoshima’s version of Vesuvius. Near port, find the fascinating Kagoshima aquarium, traditional Senganen Japanese gardens, museums, the Shiroyama mountain-top park with a view over the city, and Yakushima Island, a registered world heritage site. Plus, an abundance of hot springs, mud baths, and spas to promote serenity and relaxation.

Arrive 11:30am; Depart 9:00pm

While paying tribute to the infamous nuclear attack that destroyed the city in 1945, Hiroshima is now defined as a beacon of peace and prides itself on its exceptional natural beauty. See more than 300 cherry blossom trees in bloom at Peace Memorial Park, journey to the breathtaking Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island, and take time to sample “okonomiyaki”—a delicious example of Japanese soul food.

While at sea, indulge in some well-deserved relaxation before your next adventure. Unwind by the pool, pamper yourself at the spa, savor exquisite cuisine, or discover the unique venues on board. Your next incredible destination awaits.

Arrive 8:00am; Depart 8:00pm

Visit Osaka Aquarium, one of the world’s largest aquariums which has over 580 species of sea life on display, or Universal Studios Japan, the company’s first theme park outside of the U.S. Kyoto served as the nation’s capital for more than 1000 years and is home to 17 different World Heritage Sites including Kiyomizudera Temple and Heian Jingu Shrine.

While at sea, indulge in some well-deserved relaxation before your next adventure. Unwind by the pool, pamper yourself at the spa, savor exquisite cuisine, or discover the unique venues on board. Your next incredible destination awaits.

Arrive 7:00am; Depart 6:00pm

On clear days, particularly in winter, Mount Fuji (Fuji-san in Japanese) is visible from as far as Tokyo, 60 miles away. When Japan’s highest mountain is capped with snow, it’s a picture-postcard perfect volcanic cone. One of the best-known symbols of Japan, this iconic mountain has been considered sacred since ancient times and was even forbidden to women until the early 1900s.

Arrive 8:00am

Tokyo Yokohama, Japan: Even though Tokyo is among the largest, most frenetic cities in the world, it’s still able to maintain a great deal of efficiency and charm. Amid the endless buzzing neon signs and the overhead cable webs, Tokyo is home to some of the world’s most impressive architecture, stylish shops and 4-star restaurants. Sushi lovers will revel in Tokyo’s offering of the famous dish. And the city’s “Ramen Zones” serve up unique noodle dishes where slurping is encouraged. Visit the Tokyo Tower on your Tokyo cruise for heart-pounding panoramic views of the city way atop the 492-foot high Grand Observation Deck. And just a short distance outside of the clamor the city is a whole different world. In the surrounding small towns and villages you’ll get a glimpse into Japan’s rich culture and traditions. Here you’ll discover scores of wooden residential homes, ancient temples, shrines and imperial gardens. From the frenzy-filled metropolis to the tranquil bonsai-tree-lined neighborhoods, Tokyo is truly a study in delightful contrast.