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. But just a short distance outside the clamor of 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 contrasts. Be sure to visit our Shore Excursions page or speak with our onboard Destination Concierge for arrangements to any of these must-sees.

Perched on a hillside overlooking the sea, Kobe is one of Japan’s most attractive and cosmopolitan cities. Home of the heralded Kobe beef, this small city is easily navigated. Visit the Hatsukura Sake Brewery Museum for a tour or dine in one of the area’s incredible restaurants.

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.

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.

Hiroshima, a modern city on Japan’s Honshu Island, was largely destroyed by an atomic bomb during World War II. Today, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park commemorates the 1945 event. In the park are the ruins of Genbaku Dome, one of the few buildings that was left standing near ground zero. Other prominent sites include Shukkei-en, a formal Japanese garden, and Hiroshima Castle, a fortress surrounded by a moat and a park.

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.

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.

Sunny Kagoshima lives in the shadow of Sakurajima, an active volcano that last erupted in 2016. Kagoshima balances an air of mystery with a seaside approachability thanks to its location in Southern Japan along the coast and proximity to Sakurajima. 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. Vacationers on an Asia cruise to Kagoshima, Japan can relax at Ibusuki Onsen, the local hot springs, while adventurous travelers will be awed by the volcano’s peaks after a hike to one of the many observation points. There are plenty of experiences for foodies in Kagoshima, too, like taking a tour of Shochu Brewery for sake tastings or enjoying a traditional Japanese tea ceremony.

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.

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. But just a short distance outside the clamor of 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 contrasts. Be sure to visit our Shore Excursions page or speak with our onboard Destination Concierge for arrangements to any of these must-sees.