11-night Asia - Japan Cruise

Shimizu is located on the northwest coast of Suruga Bay on the island of Honshu. Protected by a sandspit, it is a major commercial port and fishing centre. Places of scenic and historic interest include the Pine Groves of Miho, the Ryuge Temple, containing a fern palm believed to be more than 1,000 years old, and the nearby Nippon-Daira plateau.

Naha is the port for Okinawa Island lying southwest of the main Japanese islands. Landmarks in the city include the Commodore Perry Memorial, the 16th-century Sogen-ji Ishimon Gates and Tsuboya pottery quarter. Explore Shuri the 500 year old former capital that contains various shrines, temples and ceremonial gates including the famous Shurei Gate. The island, tropical and encircled by coral reefs, also houses Japan's largest sub tropical park (Okinawa Memorial Park) that includes an Aquarium, Museum and amusement park. It is also possible to visit the Okinawa Battle Sites and a number of war memorials recording the American victory in 1945.

Many visitors find this city to be one of the most appealing cities in Taiwan. Visitors come here to enjoy the scenery and fresh air and also to tour the famous Taroko Gorge, which is located a few miles north of the city. Not to miss is the Hualien Ocean Park, which features a ferris wheel, cable car, and eight different zones that introduce aspects of ocean and marine life. Hualien is an excellent place to purchase hand woven cloth in traditional aboriginal designs. Dining options are endless, and visitors will want to try Muaji, a rice dish filled with sweet sesame paste and various fruits.