Explore and book Princess Cruises 10 Night Southeast Asia Cruise on the Diamond Princess departing from Tokyo, Japan on May 25, 2025 and ending in Shimizu, Japan on Jun 4, 2025 Sail to Tokyo, Japan, Aomori, Japan, Sakata, Japan, Kanazawa, Japan, Sakaiminato, Japan, Busan (Kyongju), South Korea, Nagasaki, Japan, Shimizu, Japan

Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo Highlights with Haneda Airport Transfer
Tokyo Highlights with Narita Airport Transfer
Tokyo Highlights with Hotel Transfer

Aomori, Japan

Hirosaki and Seibien Garden
Mt.Hakkoda Aerial Tram and Oirase Stream with Japanese Style Lunch
Shirakami Mountains Walking Tour
Highlights of Goshogawara
Highlights of Hirosaki
Highlights of Aomori

Sakata, Japan

Mount Haguro Discovery
Sakata History Tour

Kanazawa, Japan

Kanazawa & Gokayama Day Tour
Toyama & Kanazawa
From Gokayama to Kanazawa

Sakaiminato, Japan

Sakaiminato Highlights Tour
Matsue Castle & Adachi Museum
Izumo – The Land of the Gods

Busan (Kyongju), South Korea

Nagasaki, Japan

A city with a profound history, Nagasaki, Japan offers poignant reminders of its past, alongside beautiful parks, temples, and a rich maritime culture. Its story of resilience and peace resonates with cruisers.

Shimizu, Japan

Located on Japan's Pacific coast, Shimizu is best known for its stunning views of Mount Fuji. Besides the iconic mountain backdrop, it offers picturesque parks, shrines, and a thriving seafood market, making it a delightful cruise destination.

10 Night Southeast Asia Cruise

Pacific

Asia & Indian Ocean

Europe

Feel the court under your feet and the thrill of victory as you sink the ball in for two points. No matter your athletic ability, there’s nothing like shooting a few hoops out in the middle of the ocean as you watch the sun set and the stars come out. Our Sports Court is not only set up for basketball but also for volleyball. Pick up a game, compete against fellow guests for bragging rights, or start your own dream team.

Sports Court

Immerse yourself in awe-inspiring art onboard, from renowned masters to contemporary favorites. Explore the extensive gallery, attend captivating art history lectures, and bid on fine art pieces at the lively Champagne Art Auctions, all at no additional cost.


Art Gallery Auctions

It’s no surprise The Shops are awarded “Best Onboard Shopping” from Porthole magazine year after year. On board, you’ll find a fabulous range of fine merchandise from brands like Swarovski, Chanel, Estée Lauder, Clinique, Lancôme, Calvin Klein, Citizen and Tissot, plus local crafts, keepsakes and souvenirs. And everyday tax- and duty-free savings can add up to as much as 30% off suggested U.S. retail prices.

The Shops of Princess

Experience the thrill of the Casinos with gaming lessons, state-of-the-art slots, and exciting tournaments, featuring Vegas-style blackjack, Texas Hold 'Em, and American roulette tables.



Vegas Style Casino

Smoking a cigar doesn’t have to be a reminder of another era — at Churchill’s you can puff on your favorite stogie among like-minded aficionados. Churchill’s is a hidden gem where the cozy, pub-like atmosphere invites cigar and cigarette smokers to sit down with a refreshing drink, their favorite smoke and enjoy the evening. Located near the casino, the comfortable lounge is decked out with humidors and high quality cigars for sale.

Churchill's

Dance the night away at Club Fusion with themed parties, live performances, and karaoke contests.



Club Fusion

Hot music and cool cocktails set to a DJ spinning popular club tunes is the ideal setting for a night of dancing. Gleaming, ultra modern and ultra cool, this hot spot invites a little stargazing while the colorful neon dance floor invites everyone to get up and boogie down. Boasting panoramic views from its vantage point 15 decks above the sea, it’s the perfect place for dancing and socializing.

Skywalkers Nightclub

For cappuccino, espresso and other coffee specialties, as well as fresh pastries throughout the day, head to La Patisserie for quick treats in a comfortable, casual sidewalk café-style setting. Savor a buttery croissant or your favorite cookie while sipping on a specialty coffee.

La Patisserie

An exquisitely decorated traditional sushi bar, serving up sushi and sashimi expertly prepared before your eyes. Dine at the sushi bar or enjoy an elegant restaurant experience.

Kai Sushi

Indulge in an unforgettable culinary journey at The Chef’s Table, hosted by the ship’s executive chef, featuring an extravagant multi-course dinner perfect for special occasions, complete with a personalized menu and photo with the chef.


Chef's Table Experience

Our World Fresh Marketplace menu is offered in Horizon Court. Enjoy an endless selection that changes throughout the day to satisfy the most discriminating palate. Indulge in a delightful array of worldwide cuisine, freshly baked breads and regional comfort foods, in a casual setting at breakfast, lunch or dinner. Enjoy fresh fruits, signature pastas and desserts galore along with your favorite beverages and customizable features like create-your-own salads and sandwiches.

Horizon Court

A perennial Princess passenger favorite, Prego serves up freshly made Neopolitan-style pizza by the slice or by the whole pie. Named the "Best Pizza at Sea" by USA TODAY, you’ll savor classic favorites made with hand-tossed dough, fresh tomato sauce, cheeses and pepperoni or try the daily specials.

Prego Pizzeria

Sterling Steakhouse serves the highest quality cuts of premium, grain-fed beef including New York strip steak, Porterhouse and Filet Mignon. Voted among the “Best Cruise Ship Steakhouses” by USA TODAY. Choose from a selection of premium steaks and seafood including mussels and prawns, all prepared to your exact specifications.

Sterling Steakhouse

Our Italian specialty restaurant has been voted one of the “Best Cruise Ship Specialty Restaurants” at sea by USA TODAY. Savor Sabatini’s authentic offerings featuring signature pastas, Italian wines and an irresistible selection of delectable desserts, all celebrating our Italian culinary heritage.

Sabatini's

Follow your nose to the Trident Grill where the burgers are flipping and the hotdogs roasting, served with a variety of garnishes and hot crisp fries. Veggie burgers, bratwurst and grilled chicken breast are also served and all are sure to hit the spot when you are relaxing out on deck.

Trident Grill

Throughout the day and night, our exclusive open-air poolside amphitheater is the go-to destination for feature films, thrilling concerts and exciting sporting events such as live football games. Cozy up under a fleece blanket in the comfortable lounger and feast on complimentary fresh-popped popcorn in the evening or delicious cookies and milk during the day, and enjoy that exciting car chase or mystery thriller on the giant screen.

Movies Under the Stars

Watch a remarkable world come to life before your eyes as life-size puppetry from Jim Henson’s Creature Shop, dance and special effects transport you to a mythical realm. Created and directed by John Tartaglia, a star of Broadway hits such as Avenue Q and Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, The Secret Silk is our third exclusive show produced with Stephen Schwartz, the Oscar®, Grammy® and Tony® award-winning composer of Wicked. Join us for a mystical evening as the secret is revealed.

The Secret Silk

When classic light opera meets popular music, the result is an extravaganza that brings the house to its feet. Dancing amid breathtaking sets, and backed by a large, 13-piece orchestra, the cast of Bravo…A Regal Celebration delights audiences with such opera classics as “Time to Say Goodbye” and “Habanera” from Carmen. Also woven seamlessly into the production are contemporary hits such as Adele’s “Skyfall.” Join a brilliant soprano, backed by talented singers and dancers for an evening of music that’s truly timeless.

Bravo

Welcome to a sophisticated evening of music and glamour, set amidst the romantic splendor of a beautiful Montecito garden. Inspired by Princess Cruises’ top-rated show Bravo!, and accompanied by an impressive onstage orchestra, Encore celebrates the traditions of pop, opera and musical theater. This spellbinding experience—showcasing new songs, elaborate costumes and stunning sets is directed and choreographed by Disney Channel® creative director Danny Teeson, with musical direction by Academy Awards arranger Nelson Kole and set design by Emmy® award-winner John Iacovelli.

Encore

Embark on a whole new kind of voyage as dazzling technology, woven into live performances, amplifies the beat of chart-topping hits. Created, directed and choreographed by American Idol’s Danny Teeson, Fantastic Journey combines rock-concert energy and spectacular aerial performers in the most technologically innovative show ever presented by Princess Cruises. This visually stunning, multi-faceted stage production features 270-degree 3D-mapped imagery and 14 amazing, choreographed drones.

Fantastic Journey

The Voice of the Ocean — a new spin on the #1 TV show in the world — comes aboard, complete with live performances, professional mentors, blind auditions, charismatic judges and the iconic rotating chairs. Watch guests compete throughout the cruise, and help crown The Voice of the Ocean as part of some exciting cruise entertainment.

The Voice of the Ocean

Become mesmerized by renowned illusionists and magicians who will astonish you with their slight-of-hand tricks and mind-blowing acts that will have you shaking your head in disbelief.

World-Class Magicians & Illusionists

Get ready for laughs aplenty with top comedians from Comedy Central and late-night TV. Grab a cocktail, settle in, and share the humor with fellow guests for an evening of side-splitting fun.


Top Headliner Comedians

Enjoy live music, folkloric performances, acrobats and jugglers, even cocktail and food carving demonstrations. Plus, you'll find great shopping, gourmet treats in the International Café, bars, and more great cruise entertainment only a few steps away.

Street Entertainers in the Piazza

Catch reggae, Top-40 and even mariachi music on deck poolside. Tap your toes to cover bands, torch singers, and even karaoke in the night clubs. You might even catch a string quartet in the Piazza or a sing-along at the piano bar.

Live Music Abounds

Revel in time-honored traditions, from Halloween pumpkin carving and a Thanksgiving turkey carving contest, to Hanukkah festivities, Christmas carolers and our famous Atrium snowfall. There's no better place to celebrate than on a Princess ship.

Holiday Celebrations at Sea

Uniquely themed centers host engaging activities specially designed to help them play, huddle, create and discover.  In partnership with Discovery™, Princess has developed engaging new youth programming and wonder-filled centers designed for our youngest guests.  Places for young explorers to learn about the world and discover new interests.
Invitations to meet new friends and enjoy memorable experiences while sailing.

Camp Discovery

This contemporary lounge is "the place" for teens — perfect for hanging out and socializing with late-night movie viewing, hip hop dance classes, video game tournaments and sports competitions like dodgeball and basketball. But that’s just the beginning. They’ll dazzle on the red carpet with our Rock the Boat teens-only party, complete with awards and "mocktails."

The Beach House (13-17)

Even the littlest guests will delight in this whimsical, forest-themed world that inspires playtime and invites exploration. Kids, ages 3 to 7, can dance, enjoy pajama movie nights, create art projects like Animal Planet™ puppets and masks or compete in a Lego® boat-building contest.

The Treehouse (3-7)

Inspired by the great outdoors, this cozy center keeps kids busy with games, dancing and kid-sized Olympic competitions. Their minds stay busy, too, with California Science Center programs like rocket building, or they can explore outer space with Stargazing and learning how to build a model roller coaster. Exciting events like talent shows, theme nights, and treasure hunts encourage new friendships and family togetherness.

The Lodge (8-12)

Rest assured, whether you've planned a day of exploring or a romantic night out, the group kidsitting at our Youth Centers offers your children between the ages of 3 and 12 plenty to look forward to. It's the perfect place for them to relax or play games with their friends. And the charge is just $5.00 USD per hour per child.

Parents Night Out

Sports Cort

Named "Best Spa on a Cruise Ship" by Spafinder Wellness 365™, the Lotus Spa® offers a variety of relaxing treatments, such as facials, aroma stone therapy massages, detoxifying ocean wraps and an aromatherapy thermal suite. Or get ready for a night on the town at the salon which features women’s styling color, men’s haircuts and shaves, manicure and pedicure choices and teeth whitening.

Lotus Spa

Treat yourself to tranquility at The Sanctuary, an exclusive adults-only oasis where you can unwind with signature beverages, light meals, and al fresco massages while Serenity Stewards cater to your every need, from chilled face towels to refreshing Evian water atomizers.


The Sanctuary

The Lotus Spa Fitness Center offers fitness programs designed to help you maximize your wellness with Tour de Cycle, personal training and classes such as Pilates, Yoga, Body Sculpt Boot Camp, Results Based Training and TRX suspension training. The Lotus Spa Fitness Center also features state-of-the-art equipment so you can tone on your own.

Lotus Spa Fitness Center

A variety of ways to rejuvenate can be found at the Conservatory, an enclosed climate-controlled top-deck recreation area that features two soothing hot tubs, a refreshing freshwater pool, poolside shower, bar, two ping pong tables and plenty of comfortable loungers to unwind, enjoy the views, a book or even a nap.

Conservatory

Izumi, modeled after a traditional Japanese bath or “onsen” features indoor and outdoor Japanese bathing experiences, including steam rooms, saunas, and hot tubs with spectacular ocean views. Exclusively on Diamond Princess®, it is the largest Japanese bath of its kind at sea and offers guests a chance to experience a little of a popular Japanese pastime. Men and women have separate facilities, except for one outdoor hot tub where suits are required.

IZUMI Japanese Bath

Diamond Princess is a treasure trove of exceptional delights waiting to be discovered. Dine on freshly prepared sashimi in Kai Sushi, watch street performers in the dazzling Atrium, or take in a lavish production show in our state-of-the-art theater. And for a unique treat visit the Izumi Japanese Bath, the largest of its kind at sea.

Great art, like the destinations we visit, can be awe-inspiring. Peruse our extensive art gallery, or attend an art history lecture highlighting some of the world’s greatest masters. And don’t miss our exciting Champagne Art Auctions, which give you the chance to view and bid on a wide range of fine art, including pieces by famous artists like Thomas Kinkade, Peter Max, and Michael Godard. There is no charge to attend these lively events.

From gaming lessons to the latest slot machines to prize tournaments, our Casinos offer fun and excitement. If you enjoy blackjack, or “21,” and Texas Hold 'Em, our tables play by Vegas rules and if you relish the challenge of roulette, we offer the American version.

Vegas  Style Casino

Churchill’s is a hidden gem where the cozy, pub-like atmosphere invites cigar and cigarette smokers to sit down with a refreshing drink, their favorite smoke and enjoy the evening. Located near the casino, the comfortable lounge is decked out with humidors and high quality cigars for sale.

When the sun goes down and the moon comes up, it’s time to get your feet movin’ and your heart pumpin’ at Club Fusion. A little eclectic and a whole lot of fun, the dance floor lights and booming sound system invite you to get up and show off your moves and grooves. Karaoke contests, live performances and theme-parties like “60s British Invasion” are just a few of the nightly events that will have you on your feet.

Taking dining to a new level, the Chef’s Table Experience includes pre-dinner cocktails and hors d’oeuvres in the galley for you and a limited number of fellow guests. After your executive chef describes the specially designed menu for the night, participants are escorted to an intimate table for the main course, including pairing suggestions. Each couple receives a personalized autographed copy of Princess’ best-selling cookbook, a handwritten copy of the special menu and a complimentary photo.

Our World Fresh Marketplace menu is offered in Horizon Court. Enjoy an endless selection that changes throughout the day to satisfy the most discriminating palate. Indulge in a delightful array of worldwide cuisine, freshly baked breads and regional comfort foods, in a casual setting at breakfast, lunch or dinner. Enjoy fresh fruits, signature pastas and desserts galore and customizable features like create-your-own salads and sandwiches.

Grab a seat, order a cocktail and join fellow guests for some sidesplitting humor from top headliner comedians that have appeared on Comedy Central and late night television.

Imagine playing on the green while surrounded by a beautiful blue ocean. Whether you’re a dabbler or a devoted disciple of the game, our nine-hole miniature putting course will put your finer golfing skills to the test. After you play a round, step inside to try your hand at our golf simulator, which recreates some of the world’s greatest golf courses like St. Andrews and Pebble Beach so you can play and practice like a pro.

Take a break and indulge in a private getaway at The Sanctuary, our exclusive adults-only retreat offering a relaxing alternative to the myriad outdoor activities and entertainment available elsewhere on the ship. With signature beverages, light meals, and al fresco massages, Serenity Stewards attend to your every need, whether it’s to be on hand to provide chilled face towels or Evian water atomizers.

Princess Cruises

Diamond Princess

Vehicles with an English-speaking guide are offered on full-day (eight hours) basis. Deviations to duration, departure / return time or locations to be visited can be made onboard in advance but will incur an additional charge. This is a private arrangement and your party group may be of any size up to maximum of 3. We do not match groups of passengers to form a private group for the vehicle. Vehicles and guides are of extremely limited availability, reserve early. These are special tours designed to offer the privacy and flexibility of touring with family or friends and the convenience of sightseeing at your own pace. We also recommend private tours for passengers with limited mobility.

Korea is rich with traditional markets packed with the ingredients to delight chefs and foodies alike. Jagalchi is Korea's largest fish market and features a stunning array of the ocean's bounty. Many varieties of both fresh and dried seafood can be purchased and cooked on site for on-the-spot enjoyment. Nearby Gukje is an international market made up of a delightful labyrinth of stall-packed streets selling everything from the freshest food to local souvenirs.

One of the most beautiful temples in Busan, its unusual location by the sea adds to the peaceful atmosphere. Expect to climb 108 steps to get a closer look at this amazing landmark, which boasts a three-story pagoda decorated with lions. Once inside, your guide will explain the legend of the Great Goddess Buddha, who lives in the sea and is said to appear on the back of a dragon.

This fascinating excursion starts with a Korean BBQ. The term Korean barbecue or Gogigui (meat roast) in Korean refers to the Korean method of roasting various types of meat and vegetable. Such dishes are often prepared at the diner's table on gas or charcoal grills that are built into the table itself. Galbi (grilled spareribs) dishes are popular in Busan. You will visit one of Korea's top five galbi restaurants. Enjoy the Korean authentic BBQ which are served with only the highest-grade beef.

Your journey begins as soon as you board your motorcoach and make your way through Busan's northern suburbs

This gigantic, modern jjimjilbang (Korean-style sauna/spa) is located inside the Shinsegae Centum City department store. Furnished with hot tubs, showers, Korean traditional kiln saunas and massage tables, the facility uses hot spring water with sodium bicarbonate, which is pulled up from a depth of 3,280 feet underground in its 22 different hot springs and 13 spas, each with a unique theme. Visitor favorites include a radiant heat-based Roman Sauna, which recreates the ancient roman bath using modern technology, and the traditional Finnish Sauna, which is an all-natural, Finnish-style sauna said to keep you healthy during the freezing winter months.

Housed within a lovely performance hall, a cultural performance features talented Korean dancers dressed in traditional garb. They will entertain you with traditional costumes and Korean compositions, referred to as "gugak," which translates to "national music." The show brims with authentic dances, colorful native clothing and captivating production elements.

This 25-acre landscape garden was originally developed by the great daimyo of Kanazawa Castle. Kenroku-en boasts Japan's first fountain, a teahouse dating to 1774, and a pagoda donated to the Maeda clan by the great warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi. The celebrated Ganko-bashi is a bridge comprising 11 red stones laid out to resemble a formation of flying geese.

See Kanazawa's most famous sights and still have time to get back to your ship for lunch. This enticing half day tour travels to three top attractions for a thorough introduction to this historic city. First, you will visit Kenrokuen Garden, one of the three most beautiful gardens in Japan.

Experience the rich architectural traditions of the Japanese countryside on this self-guided tour. Shirakawago widely-known as one of the most scenic places in Japan, is nestled along the shores of the Shokawa River and is surrounded by dramatic pine tree-covered mountains. Here you'll find the unique Japanese thatched-roof farmhouses that are the center of attention. There are approximately 90 thatched farmhouses, sheds, and barns built about 200-300 years ago that were added to UNESCO'S World Heritage List in 1995. They are examples of the gassho-zukuri style, a form of construction that resembles hands-clasped in prayer. Aesthetically pleasing, the steeply pitched roofs are extremely practical during the heavy snowstorms of the Shokawa River valley. Pitched at 60 degrees and oriented along a north-south axis, the farmhouses are able to more efficiently capture sunlight and shed weighty burdens.

You'll enjoy hands-on experiences with traditional Japanese artisans as your guides! Creating and utilizing gold leaf is another of Japan's traditional crafts and more than 98% of it is produced right here in Kanazawa. Even the fine water and humid weather in this city plays an important role. A visit with gold leaf artisans will give you an excellent introduction to a craft that arose during the Hakuho and Tenpyo periods (645-794). It has been used locally in various places lending a beautiful sparkle to temples, lacquerwares, textiles, and ceramics.

Experience the rich architectural traditions of the Japanese countryside on a tour including two of the region's most picturesque villages. Shirakawago widely-known as one of the most scenic places in Japan, is nestled along the shores of the Shokawa River and is surrounded by dramatic pine tree-covered mountains.

This tour takes you to Fukui and visit Eiheiji Temple. The largest temple in Japan and head of the Soto sect of Zen Buddhism, Eiheiji Temple is known as the "temple of eternal peace" and is located in the wood-covered mountains not far from Fukui City along the rocky coast of west Japan.

From the pier, take a short walk to the station and board a local city tram. Enjoy a scenic drive through the bustling streets en route to the famed Peace Memorial Park. You will see many diverse sights and will get a comprehensive view of everyday life in Nagasaki.

Board your motorcoach at the pier and drive through the cosmopolitan city of Nagasaki. This lovely city is committed to remembering its past while celebrating its vital present and future. For many visitors, Nagasaki is a symbol of the horrors of war. But this beautiful city on Kyushu offers timeless charm and picturesque scenery as well. Often described as the San Francisco of Japan, the city is nestled within lush, green hills surrounded by a deep-water bay.

Board your motor coach at the pier for a scenic city drive through Nagasaki en route to the moving Peace Memorial Park and the Atomic Bomb Museum. In 1945, an estimated 75,000 people perished when the city became the second target of a nuclear attack. Today, Nagasaki's Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum draw visitors from around the world and serve as both a reminder of the tragedy and a memorial to all those who lost their lives.

On August 9, 1945, Nagasaki became the second city to suffer a nuclear attack. Peace Memorial Park is located near Ground Zero, the center of the blast, and is home to a beautiful memorial fountain and the 30-foot-high "Statue of Peace." Nearby is the Atomic Bomb Museum, which chronicles the events leading up to the bombing and the event itself. The displays include photographs taken in the city immediately after the blast as well as artifacts that survived the explosion. A short walk from the museum leads to the Atomic Bomb Hypocenter, a black monolith marking Ground Zero.

Depart from the pier and your first destination is Adachi Museum of Art. Housing an impressive collection dating from 1912 to the present, including works by Yokoyama Taikan, one of the major figures in Japanese modern art, the Adachi Museum of Art, founded in 1980, is known not only for its galleries of pottery, wood carvings and artwork but also for its extraordinary gardens. Considered to be the most beautiful gardens in Japan, it is home to a moss garden, a pond garden, a tea garden and a pine tree garden set off by stark white gravel. Your next stop is Yushi-en Garden. Located on Daikon Island, Yushi-en is a breathtaking garden of over 40,000 square meters that thrives through all four seasons. Established in 1975 as a private garden, the grounds feature an array of landscape elements from gardens to waterfalls, streams and rock gardens. Yushien's main attraction is its collection of Japanese peony flowers, with over 250 different types that bloom in an array of colors. Then return to your ship by comfortable coach.

Don't miss this fantastic glimpse into the local culture of the town of Mihonoseki, located at the eastern tip of the Shimane peninsula. Somewhat off the beaten path, this historic harbor was an important trading port in feudal Japan and the sea continues to hold a spiritual hold on the town; in fact; the locals say that Mihonoseki connects the gods and the sea to the people.

Board your motorcoach and drive south and west to the Adachi Museum of Art in Yasugi. Founded in 1970, the Museum features one of the finest modern gardens in Japan and a collection of over 1,000 Japanese paintings from 1912 on. The Museum boasts a large number of works by Yokoyama Taikan, considered one of the major figures in Japanese modern art.

A genuine Japanese sword is produced with a type of steel called tamahagane and manufactured in a traditional type of forge called a tatara using an ancient process. Okuizumo is the only town in Japan today that still uses this method. This informative museum details the production process through dynamic exhibits, videos and photography, and it displays an impressive collection of swords as well as a replica of an early tatara forge. Here, a master swordsmith, Mr. Kobayashi Shunji, will give a demonstration of a piece of tamahagane being worked. A sword-wielding demonstration concludes this exciting visit.

Housing an impressive collection dating from 1912 to the present, including works by Yokoyama Taikan, one of the major figures in Japanese modern art, the Adachi Museum of Art, founded in 1980, is known not only for its galleries of pottery, wood carvings and artwork but also for its extraordinary gardens. Considered to be the most beautiful gardens in Japan, it is home to a moss garden, a pond garden, a tea garden and a pine tree garden set off by stark white gravel.

Tsugaru Kanayama is an unglazed pottery that was heavily influenced by the blue-gray beauty of Sue pottery. High-quality clay is gathered from the bottom of the Kanayama Otameike pond and fired at extremely high temperatures using Japanese red pine. Unique firing techniques, including the application of straw bindings, the placement of plates on the pottery to create patterns, and burying pieces in ash away from direct exposure to the fire, create exquisite pieces of art. A local expert brings this unique process to life.

This temple is home to Japan's largest seated image of Buddha, the Showa Daibutsu. The stunning, lush landscape and peaceful serenity of this modern temple, founded in 1982, perfectly set off the stunning 70-foot-tall, 220-ton bronze statue.

This historic castle, constructed in 1611, was struck by lightning in 1627 and burned to the ground. Although rebuilt in 1810, it still retains an aura of its ancient past when samurais ruled the country. This historical treasure sits tucked away in the lush and peaceful 121-acre Castle Park, home to one of the country's most popular natural spectacles. If you're lucky enough to visit during the last week of April and the first week of May, you'll witness the "sakura matsuri," or cherry blossom festival.

Wonders of the sea abound on this fascinating half-day adventure that takes in two sea-themed attractions and a cultural museum. A 45-minute drive brings you to the Kamo Aquarium, famed for housing the world's largest collection of jellyfish on display. Arrive at this modern facility overlooking the Sea of Japan and walk through the colorful displays of over 50 different species of the free-swimming aquatic animals, including thousands of moon jellies that float through the Jellyfish Dream Theater. After perusing the tanks of marine life, continue to Hiyoriyama Park, located on an artificial hill with views of the port and showcasing historical items including the oldest stone compass and oldest wooden lighthouse in Japan as well as a half-sized replica of a cargo ship. Continue on to the Sankyo Rice Storehouse. Constructed in 1893, this former rice facility has been renovated to include a museum and shops that showcase multiple aspects of this vital grain. Return to port.

A trio of Sakata's most prized museums are yours to explore on this half-day adventure that begins with a scenic motorcoach ride to Honma Museum. Built in 1813, as the villa of the Honma family, the museum is one of the first private museums in Japan. In addition to the displays of fine art, a strolling garden with a central pond and views of Mt. Chokai delight. Your next stop is the Ken Domon Museum of Photography, the world's first private photography museum. Ken Domon, a renowned news photographer, donated all 70,000 of his photos to the city. The modern building that houses the collection is surrounded by sculptures and manicured gardens set against a lush natural forest. Lastly, you'll visit the Shonai Rice Museum/Sankyo Rice Storehouse. Constructed in 1893, this former rice facility has been renovated to include a museum and shops that showcase multiple aspects of this vital grain. Return to port after this fascinating day.

Journey into the heart of Mount Haguro, one of the three sacred mountains in the ancient province of Dewa. Your full day of exploration begins at the Go-jyu-No-Toh pagoda. This designated National Treasure, constructed from 931 to 937, is a five-tiered architectural marvel and tribute to Taira no Masakado, a samurai during the Heian period of Japan. Admire its graceful exterior and look for the 1,000-year-old Japanese cedar called Jijisugi, a symbol of longevity in the natural world. Next, visit Sanjin Gosaiden, which enshrines the deities of all the three scared mountains. No offering is required, but a five-yen coin is supposed to bring luck. Pause for a Japanese-style lunch, then continue to the Chido Museum, displaying folklore artifacts and traditional gardens. Conclude at the Zenpoji Temple, including a memorial tower, dedicated to fish and beloved by fishermen. Return to port at the conclusion of this fascinating day.

Delight in the highlights of Yuza Town, located in the northern section of Sakata, on this full-day adventure that mixes natural highlights with popular attractions. A 60-minute scenic drive brings you to this picturesque region, which is anchored by Mt. Chokai. Towering at 2,236 meters (7,335 feet), it was formed from lava stone and is recognized as a Japanese Geo Park. Pause at the 4th Station to take in spectacular views of the Sea of Japan. Continue on to Jyuroku Rakan Iwa, incredible rock sculptures carved between 1864 and 1868 that endure despite the eroding force of the Sea of Japan. Pause for lunch, then it's on to photograph Maruike-sama, the emerald-green pond filled by spring water from the mountain's top. Conclude at the former residence of Tomekichi Aoyama, who made his fortune in herring fishing and built a luxury residence in his hometown. Admire the Shunkei lacquerware and fine art collection. Return to port.

Combining both natural and cultural highlights, this pleasant full-day tour begins with a scenic motorcoach ride to the Shinjo Local History Museum. Here, you'll learn about the farming community, peruse thousands of unique implements and delve into the culture of the region. Proceed to the boat dock and board the relaxed Mogami-River cruise that floats from Furukuchi-port to Kusanagi-port. All the way, take in the beautiful scenery and listen to the delightful sounds of the sailor's song sung by the boatman. You'll pause in your day for a traditional Japanese lunch, then it's on to the Sankyo Rice Storehouse, constructed in 1893. Today, this facility comprised of multiple storehouses has been converted to include a museum dedicated to the history of rice in the region and colorful souvenir shops, with local foods and handicrafts. Return to port at the conclusion of this lovely day.

Following a long history of warfare with it neighbor, Japan defeated the Qing dynasty in 1896 and occupied Korea until the end of World War II followed by a civil war. Then, in 1950, hoping to unify Korea under a Communist government, the north launched a surprise attack and quickly gained control of most of the south. The United Nations intervened and sent troops to help South Korea. North Korean troops drove UN forces down the Korean peninsula to Busan but the city was one of the few cities that was not destroyed or invaded during the Korea War.

Amazing relics and artifacts excavated from around Busan and the tombs of the nearby burial ground include ancient helmets, diverse types of earthenware and iron-made weapons from the pre-historic era to the Three Kingdom period that spanned from the 1st century B.C. to the 6th century A.D.

This relaxing yet fascinating half day excursion starts with a warm welcome at the pier from your local guide, before an enjoyable drive through the city's northern suburbs, passing by the impressive Municipal Museum.

This serene and informative half day tour takes you to unique temple by the sea, past one of Korea's most popular beaches.

For passengers who want to discover more about Korean culture, this wonderful half-day excursion is a great place to start.

This spectacular excursion to some of the most serene and historic landmarks in Busan, starts with a scenic bus ride through mountains and pine forests to Gyeong-ju. Joined by your friendly local guide, your first port of call is the breath-taking Tumuli Park, home to some 20 royal tombs that date back to the Silla Dynasty, who ruled from 668 to 936 A.D.

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10 Night Southeast Asia Cruise