Japan & Korea

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.

Toba is celebrated for its deep connection to the sea, particularly through its pearl diving heritage. The city is home to the Toba Sea-Folk Museum which showcases traditional fishing gear and boats, illuminating the maritime lifestyle that has defined the area for centuries. The local pearl industry, pioneered by Kokichi Mikimoto, has also left a lasting impact, with visitors able to explore Pearl Island where this revolutionary developed cultured pearls.

Aside from its marine attractions, Toba offers stunning views across Ise-Shima National Park, renowned for its rugged coastlines and sacred Shinto shrines. The area's natural beauty and tranquil settings provide a perfect backdrop for leisurely exploration or enjoying the freshest seafood straight from the waters of Ise Bay.

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.

The Kanmon Straits, a narrow passage between Japan's Honshu and Kyushu islands are steeped in history and natural beauty. This strategic waterway, bridged overhead and tunneled beneath, connects the Sea of Japan with the Inland Sea. Some 700 ships pass through it on a daily basis and underground tunnels allow both cars and pedestrians to walk between the two ports. Japan’s largest fireworks display also takes place over the strait every August, drawing more than a million sky gazers to watch the spectacular.

The strait has long played an important role in Japanese maritime history; the Shimonoseki Campaign - a series of military engagements with the US and other navies that took place here in the 1860s - ended Japanese feudal rule over the region, thus opening Japan to the West and transforming it into an international trading hub.

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.

Yatsushiro's cruise terminal which mainly accommodates smaller ships is just 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) from the city center. Begin your visit with the Yatsushiro Castle Ruins, where you can explore historical remnants and enjoy panoramic views of the city. For a unique experience, visit the Shohinken Garden, a tranquil spot perfect for a leisurely stroll amidst beautifully landscaped grounds. For those with more time, the journey to Kumamoto is about 40 kilometers (25 miles) away.

Love Sabatini’s? (Or really good Italian dinners?) You’ll be happy to hear this popular specialty restaurant has returned to its roots. Think traditional Italian comfort cuisine. Our new menu embraces the old: tried-and-true family recipes our chefs brought with them from Italy, plus exquisite Italian wines and cocktails. You can even enjoy some shareable plates exclusively at Sabatini’s Trattoria.

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.