Graceful Pagodas

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.

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.

Head to Kanazawa and the Ishikawa Prefecture and you step back in time to the Edo Period (1603 to 1886), the height of samurai culture.

Because most of the original architecture is still preserved, you can expect an eclectic mix of samurai streets, teahouses graced by geisha, thought-provoking modern museums and delectable foodie trends (gold-leaf ice cream anyone?). The crowning jewel of Kanazawa is the sensational Kenrokuen Garden, where locals and tourists visit to soak up the ever-changing seasonal beauty.

Sakaiminato, nestled on the western tip of Japan's Tottori Prefecture, serves as a gateway to the enchanting world of Japanese folklore and seafood delicacies. The city is renowned for its association with Mizuki Shigeru, the celebrated manga artist behind "GeGeGe no Kitaro," which is vividly brought to life along the Mizuki Shigeru Road, adorned with over 100 bronze statues of the series' characters.

For culinary adventurers, the Sakaiminato Fish Market offers a fresh glimpse into Japan's vibrant seafood culture, with opportunities to savor local specialties like crab and squid. Nearby, the Adachi Museum of Art, famous for its stunning Japanese gardens and impressive collection of contemporary Japanese paintings, offers a serene retreat for art lovers

Known for its ancient temples and beautiful beaches, Fukuoka is the capital of and gateway to Kyushu Island. Boasting Japan’s heady cocktail of hot springs, gourmet food, abundant nature and spiritual history, Kyushu Island has all the advantages of the mainland, while enjoying its own identity. Ships will dock at Hakata Port.

Top Things to Do in Fukuoka:

• admire the 10m Buddha at Tocho-ji Temple
• take the bullet train to visit the Kokura Castle
• enjoy the Fukuoka specialty, Tokotsu Ramen
• go shopping at Canal City Hakata

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.

Home to the amazing Forbidden City and the infamous Tiananmen Square, Beijing is a city that needs no introduction. Choose to visit the beautiful Temple of Heaven, to walk on the centuries-old Great Wall of China, or venture to Xian and see the great terra cotta warriors.

With plenty of character and charm, Tianjin is the gateway port for Beijing and is a vast and impressive city in its own right. As the area was conceded to foreign powers during the Opium Wars it is peppered with historical buildings, temples and palaces. Ships will dock at the Port of Tianjin which is a 2 hour drive from Beijing.

The Tianjin International Cruise Home Port is located approximately 170 km (105 miles) from Beijing. The journey to Beijing takes about 1.5 to 2 hours by high-speed train, which is the most efficient and recommended mode of transportation.

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.

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.