Japan, Taiwan & Korea

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.

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.

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.

It’s no surprise The Shops are awarded “Best Onboard Shopping” from Porthole magazine year after year. You’ll find fine merchandise from brands like Swarovski, Chanel, Estée Lauder, Clinique, Lancôme, Calvin Klein, Citizen and Tissot, plus local crafts, keepsakes and souvenirs. Venues vary by ship and are subject to change.

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.

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
  

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.

Kyoto, Japan's former imperial capital, is renowned for its classical temples, traditional wooden houses, and beautiful gardens. Begin your exploration at Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of red torii gates. Next, head to Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, a stunning Zen temple whose top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf.

For a taste of traditional culture, visit the Gion district, where you might glimpse geishas in their exquisite kimonos. Don’t forget to indulge in Kyoto’s renowned cuisine, including matcha-flavored treats and kaiseki, a multi-course dining experience.

Osaka's Tempozan Cruise Terminal is located about 15 km (9 miles) from Osaka city center, a 30-minute drive. Kyoto is roughly 60 km (37 miles) away.

If you're planning on exploring Osaka begin your visit with the iconic Osaka Castle, surrounded by lush gardens perfect for a leisurely stroll. Nearby, the Umeda Sky Building provides stunning panoramic views from its Floating Garden Observatory. For a taste of local cuisine, head to Dotonbori, a lively district renowned for its street food, neon lights, and the famous Glico running man sign. Don't miss Kuromon Ichiba Market, where you can sample fresh seafood and other local delicacies. Cap off your day with a visit to the tranquil Shitenno-ji Temple, one of Japan's oldest Buddhist temples, offering a serene escape in the heart of the city.

Prefer to dine on your balcony or while catching a sunset on the top deck? It’s easy with OceanNow®. Order your favorite food and drinks on your smart device or directly through a crew member, and we’ll bring them right to you! Guests with the Princess Plus® and Princess Premier® packages enjoy OceanNow and room service delivery with no charge. Sit back, relax and enjoy not having to stand in line or deal with crowds.​

Mount Fuji, Japan's most sacred volcano, stands at 12,388 feet and offers a mesmerizing landscape. Recognized by UNESCO as a "place and source of artistic inspiration," this snow-capped peak is a must-visit. Start with a trip to the Fuji Five Lakes region for breathtaking views and outdoor activities like hiking and boating.

Explore the cultural and spiritual side of the region at the Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine. Nearby, Oshino Hakkai, a traditional village with clear spring ponds and thatched-roof houses, offers a glimpse into Japan's past. For a picture-perfect view of Mount Fuji, visit the Chureito Pagoda, especially stunning in spring with cherry blossoms.

This port city is not just a gateway to Japan's iconic volcano but a treasure trove of experiences, from the bustling fish market of Shimizu to tranquil walks through lush green tea plantations. The allure of Shimizu lies in its ability to offer moments of Zen amidst the vibrancy of city life, inviting travelers to discover its rich culinary heritage, including the freshest sushi and sashimi, sourced directly from Suruga Bay. Cruise ships anchor at Shimizu Port, conveniently located approximately 10 kilometres (about 6.2 miles) from the heart of Shizuoka City.

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.

Yokohama Port serves as a gateway for travelers heading to Tokyo, located approximately 30 kms (about 19 miles) north of the port. The journey to Tokyo can take around 30 to 45 minutes by train. The Osanbashi Yokohama International Passenger Terminal is the main docking site for cruise ships. The most efficient way to travel is by train, with the Minatomirai Line directly connecting Yokohama to Shibuya, a major hub in Tokyo. This allows visitors to easily access famous sights such as the Shibuya Crossing, Meiji Shrine, and the vibrant district of Shinjuku. Given the limited time typical of cruise stopovers, planning ahead to prioritize which attractions to visit is advisable.