DAY 1 – KOBE, JAPAN
Kobe is the 6th largest city in Japan and famous for its signature marbled beef. The Ikuta Shrine there is among Japan’s oldest shrines, dating back to the 3rd century. Kobe is also the gateway to Mount Rokko, accessible by antique cable cars, and the outdoor hot springs of Arima Onsen. Other sites include the Sake Breweries, the Earthquake Museum, and Sorakuen Garden.
DAY 2 – AT SEA
DAY 3 – AMAMI ISLAND, JAPAN
The tropical small port of Amami Island is well-known in Japan for the top-quality silk and dyes produce the highest-end kimonos. The white-sand beaches and warm, crystal-clear waters of Amami are ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Amami is also known for Keihan, its unique chicken rice dish.
DAY 4 – OKINAWA, JAPAN
Renowned for its scenic beauty, rich history and unique Chinese, Japanese and Korean culture, Okinawa is famous for its ceramic wares. Tsuboya Potter Museum is the place to visit to learn about this beautiful artform. You’ll also want to see Shuri Castle & Shureimon Gate, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Kokusai Street, the main shopping area.
DAY 5 – MIYAKOJIMA, JAPAN
Famous for its white-sand beaches and clear waters, Miyakojima is considered by many to have the most beautiful beaches in Japan. Visit the town of Hirara where you will see the 16th century tomb of samurai hero Nakasone Tuyumya. Other highlights include Taragawa Awamori Sake Brewery, Utopia Farm and the amazing view of Higashi Henna Cape.
DAY 6 – KEELUNG (PEIPEI), TAIWAN
The modern metropolis and capital city of Taiwan is an interesting mix of Japanese, Chinese and Southeast Asian cultures. The skyline is dominated by the 1,671-foot, 101-storied, bamboo-shaped skyscraper, Taipei 101. Other highlights of Taipei include the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Park, Martyrs’ Shrine which is an excellent example of classical Ming Dynasty architecture, and the Confucius Temple.
DAY 7 – AT SEA
DAYS 8 & 9 – HONG KONG
Our ship docks right in the heart of Hong Kong’s harbor, putting you at the center of all manner of attractions. Watch sampans and junks glide through the waters of Aberdeen. Soak in the towering skyscrapers, peaceful green hillsides and world-famous Harbour from the top of Victoria Peak. Pursue bargains at Stanley Market. Have your fortune told at the Temple Street Night Market. Visit Lantau Island where a giant bronze Buddha holds court.
DAY 10 – AT SEA
DAY 11 – HALONG BAY (HANOI), VIETNAM
Halong Bay is our gateway to Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam about 3.5 hours away but well worth the visit. Hanoi boasts a fascinating blend of East and West with lots of Chinese influences and French design. Highlights include the One Pillar Pagoda, the Temple of Literature, Thirty-Six Streets District in Old Town Hanoi, and Hoa Lo Prison, known widely as the “Hanoi Hilton.” Explore the mystical landscape of Halong Bay by charming traditional fishing junk.
