9 Night Best Of Japan Holiday Cruise on Spectrum of the Seas from Hong Kong, China Miyazaki (aburatsu), Japan Coastline Beach
The 9 Night Best Of Japan Holiday Cruise from Hong Kong, China visits Kagoshima, Japan; Miyazaki (Aburatsu), Japan; Nagasaki, Japan; Fukuoka, Japan; Hong Kong, China. Explore our cruise itineraries and choose from a variety of rooms depending on your needs and budget. Start planning your next cruise vacation by selecting a destination and departure port.
Royal Caribbean Cruises
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9 Night Best Of Japan Holiday Cruise
Itinerary Overview
Explore Spectrum of the Seas
Day 1 - Hong Kong, China
Day 2 - 3 - Cruising
Day 4 - Kagoshima, Japan
Day 5 - Miyazaki (Aburatsu), Japan
Day 6 - Nagasaki, Japan
Day 7 - Fukuoka, Japan
Day 8 - 9 - Cruising
Day 10 - Hong Kong, China
View Itinerary
Miyazaki (aburatsu), Japan Coastline Beach
The Nichinan coastline viewpoint with dark volcanic sand in Miyazaki, Japan
This is your

9 Night Best Of Japan Holiday Cruise

Explore This Itinerary
Leaving from
Hong Kong, China
Onboard
Spectrum of the Seas
Day Port
1
Hong Kong, China
Departs at 5:00 PM
2 - 3
Cruising
Day at sea
4
Kagoshima, Japan
From 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM
5
Miyazaki (Aburatsu), Japan
From 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
6
Nagasaki, Japan
From 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM
7
Fukuoka, Japan
From 8:00 AM - 6:45 PM
8 - 9
Cruising
Day at sea
10
Hong Kong, China
Arrives at 6:30 AM
*Port sequence may vary by sailing date.
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Your ship Spectrum of the Seas

Your ship
Spectrum of the Seas
View Itinerary
Spectrum of the Seas Aerial
Spectrum of the Seas Aerial with Skypad
Get to know
Spectrum of the Seas
Watch as robots craft a custom juice creation for you at the Bionic Bar. Elevate your stay in one suite of our Suite Club, the most luxurious accommodations at sea with access to a variety of exclusive amenities. Or change the way you make family memories in the Ultimate Family Suite, an expansive, multi-room retreat complete with its own insuite slide and cinema which also doubles as a karaoke stage.

NEW ADVENTURES ON DECK

Defy gravity on RipCord® by iFLY® — the first skydiving simulator at sea. Soak up 360 views 300 feet above deck in the North Star®. And practice riding waves on the FlowRider® surf simulator.
Quantum of the Seas North Star Sunset
Quantum of the Seas North Star Sunset

North Star®

It’s time to raise the bar on adventure — with 360-degree views of the world from 300 feet above sea level in the North Star® observation capsule — winner of the Guinness World Record for tallest viewing deck on a cruise ship.
Woman Surfing on Flowrider
Young Woman Body Surfing Flowrider

FlowRider®

Grab your board and get ready for 30,000 gallons of rushing awesome headed your way. The surf’s always up on the 40-foot-long FlowRider® surf simulator.
Solarium at Sunset
Sunset at the Solarium Pool

Solarium

Slip away to this adults-only indoor and outdoor retreat. The Solarium is your slice of paradise, with soothing whirlpools, warm sunshine and a refreshing water mist.
iFly by Ripcord Little Girl Flying
iFly by Ripcord Little Girl Flying

RipCord® by iFLY®

There’s no rush in the world like skydiving — and on the RipCord® by iFLY® simulator you can feel the freedom of freefall without even leaving the deck.

BOLD FLAVORS

Savor a bold tapestry of authentic spices and flavors while feasting on endless views for the whole table at Sichuan Red. Indulge in a celebration of authentic oriental flavors cooked at Teppanyaki. And take your sweet tooth on a journey at La Patisserie.
Salad - Chops Grille
Salad served at the fine dining steakhouse, Chops Grille. Best cruise vacation restaurant dining served table side.

Chops Grille℠

For more than a decade, the chefs at Chops Grille have specialized in serving up quality, hand-cut meat. Dinner at this hallmark Royal Caribbean specialty restaurant goes far beyond the typical steakhouse experience, though, with reimagined classics like succulent Maine lobster, gruyere cheese tater tots, white truffle-scented mushroom soup, and of course, expertly prepared prime beef.
Spectrum of the Seas Sichuan Red
Sichuan Red Interior Sitting Area

Sichuan Red®

Savor an exotic tapestry of authentic spices and wow-worthy Asian-inspired flavors while feasting your eyes on endless views for the whole table at Sichuan Red®, Designed just for Spectrum of the Seas®, this is one game changing specialty dining experience foodies won’t want to miss.
Lamb Cutlet & Vegetables - Chefs Table Restaurant
Lamb Cutlet & Vegetables at the elegant Chefs Table restaurant. Enjoy cruise line fine dining menu with artisanal ingredients

Chef's Table

Welcome to Chef’s Table, the most exclusive and elevated dining experience on our fleet. Join an intimate group of fellow foodies on a private epicurean journey led by the ship’s Chef de Cuisine. You’ll sit down to a white tablecloth dinner spotlighting five exquisite courses that range from scallop carpaccio with yuzu vinaigrette, to grilled filet mignon served with truffle potato puree — each expertly paired with the perfect wine to highlight every flavor on the menu.
Spectrum of the Seas Teppanyaki Hibachi
Teppanyaki Hibachi Eating Stations

Teppanyaki℠

At Teppanyaki℠, expert chefs elevate cooking to a performance art form — and you’ve got front row seats to the show. Enjoy authentic Far East flavors prepared right at your table and served up with a sizzle, from succulent seafood to top-grade steaks seared to perfection.

SPECTACULAR NIGHTS

Craving some futuristic sounds? Take in an epic fusion of music and innovation at the Two70® shows. Want a drink served by a robot? Get captivated by the groundbreaking technology every night.
Showgirl Logo
Showgirl Logo

Showgirl™

Get ready to be amazed — when it comes to onboard entertainment, the new Royal Caribbean original production Showgirl pulls out all the stops. From bar-raising choreography to state-of-the-art lighting and video effects, this homage to the iconic entertainer is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.
Anthem of the Seas Skybar North Bar Cocktails
Anthem of the Seas Skybar North Bar Cocktails

North Star Bar

After you’ve taken a ride on the North Star℠, featuring brilliant 360º views from 300 feet above sea level, celebrate your unforgettable ascent with something sparkling, mixed, frosty, or tropical. At North Star Bar, the sips are just as impressive as the sights.
Two70 Starwater Show
Dancer and Singers Performing on the Starwater Show

Two70®

By day, it's an open area living room with panoramic views through windows two decks high. By night, the lights go down, the windows become screens and the space comes alive with aerialists, robots and much more. This is Two70® — a place that can take you anyplace.
Bionic Bar Cocktail Robot Arm
Bionic Bar Cocktail Robot Arm

Bionic Bar®

At Bionic Bar®, meet two robotic bartenders who know how to shake, stir, and mix up your night out. With moves as fluid as the Pimm’s in your cup, these mecha mixologists can create an almost endless combination of cocktails, from classic cosmos to custom-crafted sips designed by you.

Day 1: Hong Kong, China

Day 1
Hong Kong
China
View Itinerary
Hong Kong, China Red Bridge Garden
A red bridge leading to a temple Chinese architecture in a garden in Hong Kong, China
Things to do in
Hong Kong
Departs at 5:00 PM
Although it's officially part of China, Hong Kong is a world unto itself. This bustling city is full of ancient and modern architecture, lots of people and — of course — the best dim sum around. Head to the Kowloon Peninsula for Golden Mile shopping along Nathan Road. Then, make your way to Hong Kong Island to admire the views from the top of Victoria Peak — you can see the skyscrapers of the financial district as well as the fishing village of Stanley Harbour. Cruise to Hong Kong and trek out to mountainous Lantau Island to see the famous Tian Tan Buddha, standing a full 112 feet tall. Or score some quiet time at Hong Kong Park, full of contemplative rock gardens and tree-lined paths.
Hong Kong, China Victoria Peak Tram
The Victoria peak tram arriving at a station overlooking the skyline in Hong Kong, China

Peek From the Peak

The Peak Tram takes you up to Victoria Peak, Hong Kong's 1,800-foot-high mountain. Less expensive buses will get you there, too. Once you're up top, admire the views over the city from the hiking trails. The Peak also offers an escape from the subtropical climate below — the air here is cooler and less humid.
Hong Kong, China Harbor Pier Ferry Dock
Boats out on the harbor alongside a rocky coast in Hong Kong

Scenic Ride to Stanley

Stanley Harbour, on the other side of Hong Kong Island, will give you a taste of a different Hong Kong. It's a fishing village on Repulse Bay with a lovely seaside walk (snap some photos of the fishing boats) as well as a famous street market. There's lots of British history, a boardwalk and even a few beaches. You can take the bus from Central for a scenic trip, though the express bus is faster.
Hong Kong, China Ferris Wheel
Ferris wheel and skyscrapers during the day in Hong Kong, China
Hong Kong, China Victoria Harbor Sailboat
Tourist sailboat crosses Victoria Harbour to the Hong Kong Island with skyscrapers in the background

Out on the Harbor

Use an Octopus card for a ride on Hong Kong's iconic Star Ferry for inexpensive views of Hong Kong's harbor. The tour makes a scenic circular route between Kowloon Peninsula and Hong Kong Island, stopping at three piers. Skyscrapers are everywhere, but look closely for the smaller Golden Bauhinia near the Wan Chai Pier, a golden flower statue where the handover of Hong Kong took place in 1997.
Hong Kong, China Skyline
View from a mountain top looking down at the Hong Kong skyline
Hong Kong, China Dim Sum
Delicious array of dim sum in bamboo steamers in Hong Kong, China

Local Cuisine

Hong Kong is famous for dim sum, a meal of bite-sized foods with various selections brought to your table. Traditionally eaten for brunch, you'll find it at other hours, too. Choose from steamed buns, dumplings or fried rolls filled with spinach, crab or chicken. You'll likely need to share a table — but then you'll have help deciding what to order. Restaurants with lots of locals are a sign of quality and good prices.
Hong Kong, China Traditional Jade Necklaces
Traditional Jade necklaces sold in markets while souvenir shopping in Hong Kong, China

Shopping

Head to Causeway Bay for modern retail therapy: This stretch of Hong Kong is virtually covered in malls and shops. Central is the district to go to for upscale designer clothes, shoes and other items. But don't overlook the markets for local handicrafts during your Hong Kong cruise. Pick up an inexpensive but distinctive jade necklace or ornament, or look for poetry-inscribed paintings and bamboo handicrafts from the antique dealers on Cat Street.

Day 2 - 3: Cruising

Day 2 - 3
Cruising
At Sea
View Itinerary
Spectrum of the Seas Flowrider Surfer
Man Surfing on Flowrider with Man Enjoy Ripcord in the Background
PLAY ANY WAY YOU LIKE
Odyssey of the Seas Seaplex Bumper Cars
Odyssey of the Seas Seaplex Bumper Cars

Bumper Cars

Buckle up and take the wheel for nonstop fun on the only bumper cars at sea. Rush hour gets a thrilling spin at the largest indoor activity space ever to set sail — SeaPlex®.
Spectrum of the Seas Solarium Pool with a View
Solarium Pool with a View
Ripcord by iFly Instructor with a Kid
Boy Enjoying the iFly with Instructor

RipCord® by iFLY®

There’s no rush in the world like skydiving — and on the RipCord® by iFLY® simulator you can feel the freedom of freefall without even leaving the deck.
North Star During Sunset
North Star During Sunset
Young Girl Sliding Down at Splashaway Bay Park
Girl Sliding at Splashaway Bay Park

Splashaway Bay℠

The fun comes in gallons. This bigger, better kids aqua park features slides, water cannons, waterfalls and more. And when the drench bucket gets full, everyone gets wet.

Day 4: Kagoshima, Japan

Day 4
Kagoshima
Japan
View Itinerary
Kagoshima, Japan Volcano City View
View of the city overlooking the volcano in Kagoshima, Japan
Things to do in
Kagoshima
From 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Japan's southernmost major city, Kagoshima delivers a memorable mix of unique cuisine, historical attractions and outdoor activities in its temperate weather. Take in sweeping bayside vistas at Sengan-en, the elegant estate of the Shimadzu samurai clan, and stroll through its cherry blossom-filled gardens. Cruise to Kagoshima and head to Yurigahama Beach, with its bright waters and mysterious sandbar that appears each month in a slightly different spot, depending on the tides.

popular Shore Excursions

Amazing experiences coming soon.

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Kagoshima, Japan Garden Landscape
Beautiful landscape with flowers and trees in Sengan-en, Kagoshima, Japan.

Samurai Garden

Step back in time at Sengan-en, a sprawling samurai estate originally built in the 17th century that offers breathtaking garden views of the bay and Sakurajima puffing in the distance. The villa here was built out of Yakushima cedar trees over 1,000 years old; it's perfect place to try traditional Japanese green tea and chocolate sweets.
Insider tip
There's no tipping in Japan, but you'll face an 8 percent sales tax everywhere except major retailers, which often have no-fee shopping.
Kagoshima, Japan Historic Lookout
Shiroyama historic lookout overlooking the volcano in Kagoshima, Japan

Historic Lookout

Head to Shiroyama Lookout, a hillside park overlooking the city. Heads up, history buffs: This was the site of the final battle of the Satsuma Rebellion, in which the last samurai, Saigo Takamori, met his end. Cruise to Kagoshima and check out Reimeikan Museum at the foot of the hill, based on the remains of a fort that once stood here.
Insider tip
Don't forget to carry some Japanese yen in cash as smaller shops, cafes and bars may not accept credit cards.
Kagoshima, Japan Meat Soup
Kurobuta Meat soup local cuisine in Kagoshima, Japan

Local Cuisine

Cuisine in Kagoshima centers around kurobuta, or "black pork" — it comes from a black-haired breed of heritage pig that produces meat with a delicate, sweet flavor. Try the good stuff shabu-shabu hot pot style, wash it down with a cup of shochu, a distilled liquor from southern Japan that's often made with sweet potato, barley, sugar cane and buckwheat.
Kagoshima, Japan Ocean View Volcano
View from the ocean looking at the volcano and a modern building along the coast on a sunny cloudy day
Kagoshima, Japan Blue Pottery
Japanese porcelain blue pottery sold in Kagoshima, Japan

Shopping

Head over to the Tenmonkan district for unique Kagoshima goods, including handmade Satsumakiriko cut glass, Satsumayaki porcelain vases and bowls, Oshima tsumugi textiles and other handicrafts from Kagoshima and the Ryukyu Islands to the south. Tenmonkan shops also offer different varieties of shochu.

Day 5: Miyazaki, Japan

Day 5
Miyazaki
Aburatsu, Japan
View Itinerary
Miyazaki (aburatsu), Japan Shrine Coastline
Udo jingu, a Shinto shrine located along the Nichinan coastline in Miyazaki, Japan
Things to do in
Miyazaki
From 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Nestled in the southern corner of Japan, Miyazaki has a humid subtropical climate and miles of palm-tree-lined, sandy beaches. From the port at Aburatsu, the riches of Miyazaki are right at your fingertips. Cruise to Miyazaki and explore the remains of Obi Castle, a former samurai stronghold dating back to the 1400s. Then, ascend the steps to Udo-jingu Shrine, a Shinto place of worship overlooking the Pacific and the unusual rock formations at Aoshima. Afterward, enjoy the beach at Aoshima Island, with its warm waters and exotic Washington palms. Be sure to see the impressive Peace Tower at Heiwadai Park and glimpse the volcanic basalt cliffs of Takachiho Gorge.

popular Shore Excursions

Amazing experiences coming soon.

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Miyazaki (aburatsu), Japan Nature Bridge Takachiho
Takachiho Gorge, a narrow chasm cut through the rock by Gokase River with nearly sheer cliffs lining the gorge are made of slow forming volcanic basalt columns, Takachiho, Miyazaki, Kyushu, Japan

Gorge Yourself

Formed by ancient volcanic lava flows from Mount Aso, the basalt cliffs at Takachiho Gorge are up to 100 meters high. Take in the views from the paved fence that runs through the forest along the gorge, or rent a boat to explore the river below and get up close and personal with Manai Waterfall.
Insider tip
Miyazaki Prefecture can be hot and humid in summer, so be sure to hydrate and protect yourself from the sun.
Miyazaki (aburatsu), Japan Underground Shrine
Udo jingu, a Shinto shrine located on Nichinan coastline, Kyushu, Japan.

Try Your Luck

The Shinto sanctuary at Udo Shrine stands out for its dramatic location — the main hall was built in a large cave, and the entire complex overlooks picturesque rock formations on the Pacific Ocean. If you can hit a turtle-shaped rock in the water with the clay balls sold here, your wish will come true, according to legend.
Insider tip
You can pick up single-day bus tickets that will take you around Miyazaki city and connect you to the surrounding sightseeing areas.
Miyazaki (aburatsu), Japan Red Building
Red Building of Aoshima Shrine on Aoshima Island in Miyazaki, Japan

Walk the Devil's Washboard

About 40 minutes by car from Aburatsu, Aoshima is a small island connected to the mainland south of Miyazaki City. It's famed for its palm trees and unique rock formations known as the Devil's Washboard, perfectly aligned rows of basalt visible at low tide. Check out Aoshima Shrine, where worshipers pray for luck in marriage. The 1.5-km walk along the island's beaches is a great spot for photos during your Miyazaki cruise.
Miyazaki (aburatsu), Japan Yellow Leaves Sailboat
Aerial view of yellow tree leaves hovering over a river with boats in Takachiho Gorge, Miyazaki, Japan
Miyazaki (aburatsu), Japan Wagyu Beef
A plate of wagyu beef in Japan

Local Cuisine

Miyazaki beef is one of the most prized varieties of Japanese Wagyu beef. Here in its place of origin, you can enjoy it in two main modes of preparation: sukiyaki, where it's grilled on a hot plate in front of you and served with a slightly sweet soy-based dipping sauce, or shabu-shabu style, where it's presented raw and simmered with vegetables in an open pot of hot broth.
Miyazaki (aburatsu), Japan Garden Bridge
Takachiho Gorge, a narrow chasm cut through the rock by Gokase River with nearly sheer cliffs lining the gorge are made of slow forming volcanic basalt columns, Takachiho, Miyazaki, Kyushu, Japan
Miyazaki (aburatsu), Japan Wooden Bowl Spoon
Wooden bowls with spoons found shopping in Japan

Shopping

Miyazaki's main shopping spot is Aeon Mall, a retail paradise for anyone looking for Japanese clothes, electronics and other consumer items. For Miyazaki-specific souvenirs, head to the Konne Miyazaki Products Shop — they stock locally made wood crafts, varieties of shochu (the much-loved liqueur) and traditional haniwa figurines made from clay.

Day 6: Nagasaki, Japan

Day 6
Nagasaki
Japan
View Itinerary
Nagasaki, Japan Castle
The Shimabara castle in Nagasaki, Japan
Things to do in
Nagasaki
From 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM
A beautiful and bustling city, Nagasaki's streets have been touched by foreign culture for generations. This is the port by which the Portuguese and Dutch brought Japan into contact with Western culture in the 1500s, and over the years, international influence has continued to transform Nagasaki into the hub of cosmopolitan activity it is today. Explore the Dutch Slope, where you'll find Dutch residences from the 1800s and Japan's first Protestant Church, Higashi Yamate. Cruise to Nagasaki to see the oldest bridge in Japan, Megane-bashi — or "Spectacles Bridge," so called for its arched appearance. Then, visit Nagasaki Peace Park, with its 18-meter-wide fountain built to memorialize the events that took place here when the atomic bomb struck in 1945.

popular Shore Excursions

Amazing experiences coming soon.

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Nagasaki, Japan Hashima Island
Hashima Island on the corner view from the sea in Nagasaki, Japan

Play James Bond

Just 20 kilometers from the shore of Nagasaki lies a mysterious, abandoned island. Commonly called Gunkanjima or Battleship Island, its derelict shores tell a story of coal mines and immigrants. On a guided tour, you can see the areas that famously appeared in the James Bond movie "Skyfall".
Insider tip
Getting around is easy in Nagasaki: The port is conveniently located in the center of the city, every major destination is connected via trams, and taxis are available at will.
Nagasaki, Japan Glover Garden
Glover Garden, nature and city view in Nagasaki, Japan

City of Firsts

Nagasaki is home to some of Japan's oldest structures. See the Spectacles Bridge built in 1643, it the oldest bridge in Japan. Then stop in at Oura Catholic Church, the first wooden Gothic church in the country, or see the island's oldest European-style house at the picturesque Glover Gardens.
Insider tip
If you'd like to save on public transport and taxis, spend your time doing a walking tour of the inner city.
Nagasaki, Japan View Mount Inasa
View from Mt. Inasa in Nagasaki, Japan

View From Above

Mt. Inasa is the tallest mountain in Nagasaki and gives you a dazzling view over the city and the bay. At 333 meters high, you can see as far as the Goto Islands on a clear day. To get to the observation deck, hop on the ropeway up the mountainside.
Nagasaki, Japan Yellow Lanterns
Yellow lanterns lined up along the Megane bashi, or glass bridge, in Nagasaki, Japan
Nagasaki, Japan Pork Belly
Pork belly with boiled egg called Kakuni in Japan

Local Cuisine

Dine like royalty at a Shippoku Ryori restaurant. You'll be served shareable small plates that blend Japanese staples with influences from China and Europe. Sample kakuni, cubes of pork belly braised in a dashi broth flavored with umami-packed dried bonito fish. Cruise to Nagasaki to indulge in a Sasebo burger, typically topped with egg, bacon and Japanese mayo. For dessert, try the Portuguese-inspired castella, a fluffy vanilla sponge cake balanced with gentle sweetness.
Nagasaki, Japan Peace Park Statue
The Peace Statue of a man with his hands up while sitting found in the Nagasaki Peace Park in Japan
Nagasaki, Japan Kimono Umbrella
A kimono under a purple umbrella

Shopping

Hamano-machi shopping district sells just about everything you can imagine. Pick up delicately patterned cotton and silks, or spring for a pair of unique, hand-carved chopsticks. Stop in at a fun 100 Yen store, where every item in the shop only costs 100 yen (less than a dollar).

Day 7: Fukuoka, Japan

Day 7
Fukuoka
Japan
View Itinerary
Fukuoka, Japan Giant Buddha Temple
Tocho-ji temple or Fukuoka Giant Buddha temple in Fukuoka, Japan
Things to do in
Fukuoka
From 8:00 AM - 6:45 PM
Fukuoka, on the northern shore of Japan's Kyushu Island, is known for ancient temples and beautiful beaches. Explore the 17th-century ruins of Fukuoka Castle in Maizuru Park. Then head to the central Hakata district, home to Tocho-ji Temple, where a 10-meter wooden Buddha sits. Cruise to Fukuoka and dive deeper into history at the Hakata Machiya Folk Museum, with displays on daily life in the Meiji and Taisho eras. Slurp ramen noodles in rich tonkotsu broth at one of the city's yatai (outdoor food stalls), then walk it off with a stroll along the winding canals. Pop into Shofukuji Zen temple for some quiet reflection. Or embrace the bustle instead and head to Canal City Hakata, one of Japan's largest shopping complexes.

popular Shore Excursions

Amazing experiences coming soon.

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Fukuoka, Japan Tower
Views of the 768 foot Fukuoka Tower in Fukuoka, Japan

Towering Views

Head over to the 768-foot Fukuoka Tower for stunning views of the city and the coast. Then take a relaxing stroll on the beach right next door at Momochi Seaside Park. To cool down, get familiar with local history at the nearby Fukuoka City Museum, which houses the Gold Seal, a national treasure linked to the foundations of Japan as a country.
Insider tip
There's no tipping in Japan, but there is a blanket 8 percent sales tax. Look for tax-free sales promotions.
Fukuoka, Japan Temple Hakata
Shofukuji Zen Temple in Hakata, Fukuoka, Japan

Get Centered

Founded in the late 12th century by the priest Eisai, Shofukuji is Japan's first temple dedicated to Zen Buddhism. The philosophy of Zen grew to become a central teaching for Japan's samurai warriors. The tranquil grounds here are perfect for reflection or a respite from the bustle of the city.
Insider tip
Smaller restaurants, cafes and yatai stands may not accept credit cards, so have enough yen cash on hand.
Fukuoka, Japan Main Hall Shrine
Main hall of Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine in Dazaifu, Fukuoka, Japan

Bee-Line for Shrines

On the outskirts of Fukuoka, Dazaifu is a historic administrative center packed with temples and shrines. During your Fukuoka, Japan cruise, head to the grandest of them all, Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, dedicated to scholar Sugawara Michizane. Some 40 kilometers south but easily reachable by train, you can find Yanagawa, an ancient castle town of gorgeous old canals overhung by willows and cherry trees.
Fukuoka, Japan Traditional Poled Boat
Traditional poled boat, parked at deck in Yanagawa, Fukuoka, Japan
Fukuoka, Japan Ramen Noodles
Ramen noodles is a local cuisine in Fukuoka, Japan

Local Cuisine

Fukuoka is synonymous with noodles. While ramen originated in China, Fukuoka took the dish to new heights with its hearty tonkotsu broth — made from long-simmered pork bones — and long, thin noodles. One of the best ways to enjoy this dish is at an outdoor yatai stand, where the beer and sake flow.
Fukuoka, Japan Cherry Blossom
Cherry blossoms with views of the Himeji Castle in Fukuoka, Japan
Fukuoka, Japan Ceramic Japanese Dolls
Ceramic Japanese dolls known as Hakata Ningyo from the 17th century found in Japan

Shopping

In Fukuoka, you can pick up Hakata ningyo, ceramic dolls that were first made in the 17th century and gained international renown in the 19th. They're elaborately painted and can be remarkably lifelike. Shogetsudo in the Nakasu district offers a wide selection of dolls — you can even create your own.

Day 8 - 9: Cruising

Day 8 - 9
Cruising
At Sea
View Itinerary
Chops Grille Rosemary Steak Juicy
Chops Grille Rosemary Steak Juicy
LET THE FLAVOR FEST BEGIN
Spectrum of the Seas Sichuan Red
Sichuan Red Interior Sitting Area

Sichuan Red®

Savor an exotic tapestry of authentic spices and wow-worthy Asian-inspired flavors while feasting your eyes on endless views for the whole table at Sichuan Red®, Designed just for Spectrum of the Seas®, this is one game changing specialty dining experience foodies won’t want to miss.
Spectrum of the Seas La Patisserie Exterior
Sitting Area Outside La Patisserie
Coffee and Tea Shop
Coffee and Tea Shop Peaceful Interior

Coffee & Tea Shop

This chic cafe serves up all your favorite hot and cold drinks, from original Chinese teas to classic coffee creations. Want the best of both worlds? Choose from a selection of trendy teas inspired by coffee-making culture — all paired with pastries from around the globe.
Spectrum of the Seas Silver Dining Room
Silver Dining Room with a View
Teppanyaki Hibachi Vegetable Stir Fry
Teppanyaki Hibachi Vegetable Stir Fry

Teppanyaki℠

At Teppanyaki℠, expert chefs elevate cooking to a performance art form — and you’ve got front row seats to the show. Enjoy authentic Far East flavors prepared right at your table and served up with a sizzle, from succulent seafood to top-grade steaks seared to perfection.
Spectrum of the Seas Splashaway Cafe Interior
plashaway Cafe Interior with Swinging Colorful Chairs

Splashaway Café

Treat your little ones to a tasty snack-a-thon made just for them. Located right near the kids’ pool area, Splashaway Café is the perfect flip-flop-friendly spot to fuel up in between epic adventures onboard.

Day 10: Hong Kong, China

Day 10
Hong Kong
China
View Itinerary
Hong Kong, China Giant Buddha Monastery
The Giant Buddha Monastery in Hong Kong, Lantau Island
Things to do in
Hong Kong
Arrives at 6:30 AM
Although it's officially part of China, Hong Kong is a world unto itself. This bustling city is full of ancient and modern architecture, lots of people and — of course — the best dim sum around. Head to the Kowloon Peninsula for Golden Mile shopping along Nathan Road. Then, make your way to Hong Kong Island to admire the views from the top of Victoria Peak — you can see the skyscrapers of the financial district as well as the fishing village of Stanley Harbour. Cruise to Hong Kong and trek out to mountainous Lantau Island to see the famous Tian Tan Buddha, standing a full 112 feet tall. Or score some quiet time at Hong Kong Park, full of contemplative rock gardens and tree-lined paths.

popular Shore Excursions

Amazing experiences coming soon.

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Hong Kong, China Victoria Peak Tram
The Victoria peak tram arriving at a station overlooking the skyline in Hong Kong, China

Peek From the Peak

The Peak Tram takes you up to Victoria Peak, Hong Kong's 1,800-foot-high mountain. Less expensive buses will get you there, too. Once you're up top, admire the views over the city from the hiking trails. The Peak also offers an escape from the subtropical climate below — the air here is cooler and less humid.
Hong Kong, China Harbor Pier Ferry Dock
Boats out on the harbor alongside a rocky coast in Hong Kong

Scenic Ride to Stanley

Stanley Harbour, on the other side of Hong Kong Island, will give you a taste of a different Hong Kong. It's a fishing village on Repulse Bay with a lovely seaside walk (snap some photos of the fishing boats) as well as a famous street market. There's lots of British history, a boardwalk and even a few beaches. You can take the bus from Central for a scenic trip, though the express bus is faster.
Hong Kong, China Golden Pagoda
The Golden Pagoda of Nan Lian garden in Hong Kong
Hong Kong, China Victoria Harbor Sailboat
Tourist sailboat crosses Victoria Harbour to the Hong Kong Island with skyscrapers in the background

Out on the Harbor

Use an Octopus card for a ride on Hong Kong's iconic Star Ferry for inexpensive views of Hong Kong's harbor. The tour makes a scenic circular route between Kowloon Peninsula and Hong Kong Island, stopping at three piers. Skyscrapers are everywhere, but look closely for the smaller Golden Bauhinia near the Wan Chai Pier, a golden flower statue where the handover of Hong Kong took place in 1997.
Hong Kong, China Lanterns at temple
Lanterns hanging at the Wong Tai Sin temple in Hong Kong
Hong Kong, China Dim Sum
Delicious array of dim sum in bamboo steamers in Hong Kong, China

Local Cuisine

Hong Kong is famous for dim sum, a meal of bite-sized foods with various selections brought to your table. Traditionally eaten for brunch, you'll find it at other hours, too. Choose from steamed buns, dumplings or fried rolls filled with spinach, crab or chicken. You'll likely need to share a table — but then you'll have help deciding what to order. Restaurants with lots of locals are a sign of quality and good prices.
Hong Kong, China Traditional Jade Necklaces
Traditional Jade necklaces sold in markets while souvenir shopping in Hong Kong, China

Shopping

Head to Causeway Bay for modern retail therapy: This stretch of Hong Kong is virtually covered in malls and shops. Central is the district to go to for upscale designer clothes, shoes and other items. But don't overlook the markets for local handicrafts during your Hong Kong cruise. Pick up an inexpensive but distinctive jade necklace or ornament, or look for poetry-inscribed paintings and bamboo handicrafts from the antique dealers on Cat Street.

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