Shinto & Zen Retreats

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.

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.

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
  

Nagasaki, situated on the northwest coast of Kyushu, Japan, holds a profound historical significance, famously known for being the site of the second atomic bomb drop during World War II. Today, the city is a symbol of peace and resilience, with the Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum providing moving insights into the events and aftermath of 1945.

Beyond its historical sites, Nagasaki enchants with its unique blend of Japanese and Western cultural influences, seen in its architecture and local cuisine. Glover Garden showcases exquisite colonial-period homes, offering views over the picturesque harbour. The city's steep slopes and narrow streets add a charming layer to its scenic tram rides, making Nagasaki a captivating destination full of history and beauty.

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.

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.

Ishigaki is the definition of paradise: pure white beaches, intense turquoise sea and verdant emerald vegetation as far as the eye can see. The most cosmopolitan island in the Yaeyama Island Group of Okinawa, the islands subtropical climate means it's beach weather all year round here. Ships may dock at the Port of Ishigaki or anchor offshore.

Top Things to Do in Ishigaki:

• enjoy a glass-bottom boat tour of Kabira Bay
• visit Yaima Village, the open air museum
• hike up Mount Omoto and admire the view
• take a ferry to Taketomi Island

Taipei City stands as a vibrant metropolis set against the backdrop of towering mountains, offering a unique blend of urban energy and natural beauty. Its iconic Taipei 101, once the world's tallest building, provides panoramic views of the sprawling cityscape. The bustling night markets, such as Shilin and Raohe, offer an array of local delicacies, showcasing Taipei's rich culinary heritage.

Culture and history intertwine at the National Palace Museum, housing an extensive collection of Chinese imperial art that spans millennia. For a peaceful retreat, the nearby hot springs of Beitou invite visitors to relax in their therapeutic waters. Taipei is a city that constantly surprises, combining tradition with modernity in ways that captivate the hearts of travellers.

In Keelung, cruise ships dock at the Keelung Port, which serves as the gateway to Taipei, located approximately 25 kilometers (15.5 miles) away. Travel time to Taipei can vary, but it generally takes about 30 to 45 minutes by car, depending on traffic.

For exploring Taipei, travellers have several transportation options including taxis, buses, and trains. The city is renowned for its rich blend of modern and traditional cultures, with must-visit sights like the Taipei 101 skyscraper and the historical Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall. For a convenient and immersive experience, consider joining a guided tour or utilizing the efficient MRT (Metro) system to navigate the city's highlights.

Hong Kong’s Ocean Terminal port has become a tourist hotspot featuring world-class hotels, restaurants and shopping, and the Kik Tak Cruise Terminal is a newer port located in Victoria Harbor. When it’s time to sightsee, both ports have nearby train transportation and plenty of taxis available.

Head to the top of the Peak Tower for a panoramic view of all of Hong Kong, then shop the Temple Street Night Market. Take a day trip to Macau or for travelers who have been to Hong Kong previously might want to take a tour to Lantau Island to visit to the Po Lin Monastery to see the huge Tian Tan Buddha.

From your mooring at Ha Long Bay, travel overland approximately 2.5 hours to Vietnam's millennium-old capital, Hanoi.

Step back in time and explore the Old Quarter's narrow streets, revealing 13th-century architecture. See the traditional storytelling art of water puppetry nearby in Hoan Kiem Lake or discover the serene oasis of Ngoc Son Temple.

Indulge in Vietnamese cuisine from street food to fine dining, savouring local delights like pho and banh mi. Make sure to visit the famous Hanoi Train Street, where trains narrowly pass by as you shop and dine, adding a unique and thrilling touch to your visit in this charming city.

Hue, once the capital of Vietnam, is renowned for its rich history and well-preserved heritage, epitomized by the Imperial City, a vast complex of palaces, temples, walls, and gates. The city's tranquil Perfume River adds a picturesque quality, with traditional dragon boats offering leisurely tours. Visitors are also drawn to the Thien Mu Pagoda, one of the oldest and most significant religious structures in the area.

Neighboring Da Nang is a stark contrast with its dynamic growth and modern attractions like the Dragon Bridge, which breathes fire and water each weekend night. Da Nang’s coastline, including the renowned My Khe Beach, is ideal for relaxation or watersports, while the Marble Mountains present a blend of natural beauty and spiritual significance.

The Chan May port is about an hour from the center of Da Nang, and some travelers pass through Hoi An from there. The Da Nang cruise port is minimally equipped, but there are some basic open-air market stalls with jewellery, clothes, and other Vietnamese souvenirs available for travellers to purchase.

Over three decades have passed since the Vietnam War ended with the fall of Saigon. Today, the name of this bustling metropolis on the Mekong River is Ho Chi Minh City. Yet, the essence of the city, remains unchanged.

The air is filled with the cries of street hawkers and honking horns. Bicycles, motorbikes and cars fly down the boulevards at dizzying speeds. And everywhere, friendly faces and warm greetings meet you. Some popular activities while in port include riding a local pedicab through the bustling streets; visiting the vibrant markets, Chinatown and the fascinating Cu Chi tunnels.

In Bangkok, the old meets the new: Skyscrapers contrast ornate Thai temples, high-end cocktail bars lie around the corner from bustling stalls of street-food vendors, and tuk tuk rickshaws pedal beside cars on the busy streets. Ships will dock in Laem Chabang about a 2 hour drive from Bangkok.

Top Things to Do in Bangkok:

• tour the Grand Palace
• shop at a floating market
• admire the Buddha at Wat Pho
• enjoy street food on Khao San Road
• view the city from Golden Mountain Temple

Laem Chabang is the main port for cruises to Bangkok, situated about 120 kilometers (75 miles) southeast of the city, typically a 1.5 to 2-hour drive depending on traffic. For those looking to explore nearby attractions, Pattaya is only 30 kilometers (18 miles) away, a quick 30-40 minute drive. Pattaya offers beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and cultural sites like the Sanctuary of Truth.

Ko Samui is an idyllic, forested island with pristine beaches, but venture inland and see majestic cascading waterfalls or a plantation where monkeys harvest coconuts. Aside from its blissful beaches and lush interior, you'll also discover charming fishing villages and impressive golden Buddhist temples. Ships will anchor off Nathon and tenders guests ashore.

Top Things to Do in Ko Samui:

• visit the big Buddha known as Wat Phra Yai
• explore Angthong National Marine Park
• cool off at Nu Muang Waterfalls
• relax on Chaweng Beach

Singapore has two main cruise terminals. Small and medium cruise ships generally dock at the Harbourfront Center on the western end of the city across from Sentosa Island. This terminal is in one big mall, and sits beside an even bigger mall, Vivocity. There is a MRT stop conveniently located here.

A new cruise terminal, Marina Bay Cruise Centre opened May 2012 accommodating bigger cruise ships. Marina South Pier MRT station provides convenient access to the city. The station is 600m away from the cruise terminal along a sheltered walkway.