Autumn In Asia

Tokyo, Japan's bustling capital, offers an eclectic mix of tradition and modernity. Begin your adventure with a visit to the Asakusa district, home to the ancient Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo's oldest and most significant temple. Nearby, Nakamise Street is perfect for souvenir shopping and sampling traditional snacks.

For a panoramic view of the city, head to the Tokyo Skytree, one of the world's tallest towers. Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest pedestrian intersections, is a must-see for its sheer scale and energy. To experience tranquility, visit the serene Meiji Shrine, nestled in a lush forest in Shibuya. Don't miss trying Tokyo's renowned sushi at Tsukiji Outer Market or exploring the vibrant Harajuku district for trendy fashion and unique cafes.

Nagoya, located in the heart of Japan’s Aichi Prefecture, is a hub of automotive and technological innovation, home to industry giants like Toyota. The city's rich history is encapsulated in the iconic Nagoya Castle, rebuilt with modern techniques while preserving its historical facade. The castle grounds bloom with cherry blossoms in spring, drawing visitors for both their beauty and historical significance.

Culturally, Nagoya is distinguished by its unique cuisine, including hitsumabushi (grilled eel on rice) and kishimen (flat wheat noodles), which reflect the region’s culinary creativity. For those interested in technology and industry, the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology provides an insightful look into the manufacturing processes that shaped modern Nagoya and the global automotive industry.

Kyoto, Japan's former imperial capital, is renowned for its classical temples, traditional wooden houses, and beautiful gardens. Begin your exploration at Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of red torii gates. Next, head to Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, a stunning Zen temple whose top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf.

For a taste of traditional culture, visit the Gion district, where you might glimpse geishas in their exquisite kimonos. Don’t forget to indulge in Kyoto’s renowned cuisine, including matcha-flavored treats and kaiseki, a multi-course dining experience.

Kobe is a maritime gateway to one of Japan's most metropolitan cities. Mt. Rokko dominates the skyline - from the summit, you can glimpse one of the best views in all Japan. Of course, Kobe's also famous for breeding Wagyu cows that produce some of the highest-quality beef in the world!

Top Things to Do in Kobe:

• visit historic Himeji Castle, a huge edifice built entirely of wood and tiles
• enjoy a hot spring bath in Arima Onsen
• hang out with the locals at Nankingmachi Square, home to street-style Kobe beef à la carte
  

Overlooking Beppu Bay to its east and dramatic mountain peaks to the west, Beppu is blanketed with misty turquoise waters and elegant Japanese foliage. Its main attraction is the 'Hells of Beppu,' a collection of 8 onsen, or hot springs, some of which feature geysers and colourful waters ranging from white to copper to sapphire. Ships will dock at the port of Beppu.

Top Things to Do in Beppu:

• soak in one of the many onsen
• take a cable car ride to Mount Tsurumi
• view the 8 'Hells of Beppu'
• visit the Mt. Takasaki Monkey Park

Kitakyushu, located on Japan's Kyushu Island, is a vibrant city known for its industrial heritage and scenic beauty. The city boasts the impressive Kokura Castle, a beautifully reconstructed feudal castle surrounded by lush gardens and a tranquil moat. Nearby, the Riverwalk Kitakyushu complex offers shopping, dining, and cultural experiences with views of the Murasaki River.

Kitakyushu is also home to the Mojiko Retro District, a charming area with preserved early 20th-century buildings, museums, and waterfront promenades. The city’s green spaces, such as the Kawachi Fujien Wisteria Garden, famous for its stunning wisteria tunnels, provide a peaceful retreat. With its mix of historical sites, modern amenities, and natural beauty, Kitakyushu offers a diverse range of attractions for visitors.

Known for its beaches, mountains and temples, Busan is a large port city in South Korea. Enjoy the Haeundae Beach with its Sea Life Aquarium and Folk Square with traditional games such as tug-of-war or head to Gwangalli Beach for bars and views of modern Diamond Bridge.

Top Things to Do in Busan:

• Shop at Centum Shinsegae Department Store; the world’s largest!
• Enjoy the street art and food on a walking tour of the pastel-coloured Gamcheon Village.
• Explore Haedong Yonggungsa Temple and grounds, located at the top of a huge rock rising from the ocean
• Visit the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage area Gyeongju, south east of the city.

Often called the 'Island of the Gods,' Jeju island a volcanic island off the coast of South Korea is home to some of the Korean Peninsula's most beautiful natural sites is renowned for its unique natural landscapes, including the Hallasan Mountain, a dormant volcano and the highest peak in South Korea.

The island's diverse attractions range from beautiful beaches like Hyeopjae and Hamdeok, to the mysterious Manjanggul Lava Tube, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Jeju's rich cultural heritage is evident in its local cuisine, traditional Haenyeo (female divers) culture, and folk villages, making it a fascinating destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Seoul is rich with history and futuristic charm, and makes a perfect day trip when making a port of call in South Korea.

Embrace the culture at historical sites like the Gyeongbokgung Palace, built during the Joseon dynasty in 1395. Wander through the bustling markets of Insadong and indulge in authentic Korean cuisine like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and bibimbap (mixed rice with vegetables and meat).

Dive into the world of K-Pop, a global cultural phenomenon. Explore entertainment districts like Gangnam, visit K-Star Road in Apgujeong, and consider catching a live performance or visiting a themed cafe.

Ships will dock in Incheon (40km/24mi away, 30 minutes away by car).

Incheon is a vibrant port city in South Korea, with ships docking at the Incheon International Cruise Terminal. The terminal itself offers excellent facilities, including duty-free shops and local crafts.

Incheon serves as the port of call and gateway to the city of Seoul, the capital of South Korea, and is just over 40km/24mi away (just over 30 minutes away by car).

If staying local, discover Incheon's unique charm by exploring its historic sites like Chinatown and the Incheon Grand Park. For a taste of the local cuisine, wander through the bustling markets and sample delicacies like Jajangmyeon and Dakgangjeong.

Shanghai unfolds as a city where every corner tells a story, inviting travelers to step into a realm where the past coexists with the sprint towards tomorrow. Here, the hum of markets, the quiet of ancient gardens, and the awe-inspiring heights of skyscrapers form a mosaic of experiences. Venture from the historical depth of the French Concession's tree-lined avenues to the futuristic pulse of the Pudong skyline, discovering a city that thrives on diversity—from the culinary delights of Xiaolongbao to the artistic corridors of M50.

Cruises dock at the Shanghai International Cruise Terminal, strategically situated for easy access to the city's myriad attractions. This modern gateway is merely 3 kilometres (about 1.86 miles) from the bustling city center, translating to a quick 10-minute ride into the heart of Shanghai’s vibrant fusion of experiences.

Kagoshima lives in the shadow of Sakurajima, an active volcano that last erupted in 2016. In addition to being the capital of the Kagoshima Prefecture in Japan, the city is home to ancient castles and traditional Japanese Gardens that delight locals and visitors alike.

Top Things to Do in Kagoshima:

• relax at Ibusuki Onsen, the local hot springs
• hike to one of the many volcano observation points 
• taking a tour of Shochu Brewery for sake tastings
• enjoy a traditional Japanese tea ceremony
  

Begin your visit with a trip to Kochi Castle, one of Japan’s few original castles, offering panoramic views of the city. Head to Katsurahama Beach, famous for its scenic views and the statue of Sakamoto Ryoma, a revered samurai and national hero. For a taste of local cuisine, try Katsuo no Tataki, a seared bonito dish. Visit the Makino Botanical Garden to enjoy a diverse array of plants and tranquil walking paths.

This port city is not just a gateway to Japan's iconic volcano but a treasure trove of experiences, from the bustling fish market of Shimizu to tranquil walks through lush green tea plantations. The allure of Shimizu lies in its ability to offer moments of Zen amidst the vibrancy of city life, inviting travelers to discover its rich culinary heritage, including the freshest sushi and sashimi, sourced directly from Suruga Bay. Cruise ships anchor at Shimizu Port, conveniently located approximately 10 kilometres (about 6.2 miles) from the heart of Shizuoka City.

Tokyo, Japan's bustling capital, offers an eclectic mix of tradition and modernity. Begin your adventure with a visit to the Asakusa district, home to the ancient Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo's oldest and most significant temple. Nearby, Nakamise Street is perfect for souvenir shopping and sampling traditional snacks.

For a panoramic view of the city, head to the Tokyo Skytree, one of the world's tallest towers. Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest pedestrian intersections, is a must-see for its sheer scale and energy. To experience tranquility, visit the serene Meiji Shrine, nestled in a lush forest in Shibuya. Don't miss trying Tokyo's renowned sushi at Tsukiji Outer Market or exploring the vibrant Harajuku district for trendy fashion and unique cafes.

Yokohama Port serves as a gateway for travelers heading to Tokyo, located approximately 30 kms (about 19 miles) north of the port. The journey to Tokyo can take around 30 to 45 minutes by train. The Osanbashi Yokohama International Passenger Terminal is the main docking site for cruise ships. The most efficient way to travel is by train, with the Minatomirai Line directly connecting Yokohama to Shibuya, a major hub in Tokyo. This allows visitors to easily access famous sights such as the Shibuya Crossing, Meiji Shrine, and the vibrant district of Shinjuku. Given the limited time typical of cruise stopovers, planning ahead to prioritize which attractions to visit is advisable.