Best Of Japan Cruise ADVENTURE STARTS HERE
Shanghai (Baoshan) , China | Kobe , Japan | Kobe , Japan | Kyoto (Osaka) , Japan | Mt. Fuji (Shimizu) , Japan | Tokyo (Yokohama) , Japan | Shanghai (Baoshan) , China
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Shanghai (Baoshan), China
BACK TO THE FUTURE
When you cruise from Shanghai, check the essential items off the to-do list: See the classical architecture of the Bund neighborhood and walk among the smell of tea and incense in the fortified Old City. Then, if you have extra time, see the nearby Qibao Ancient Town — check out the pagoda-like bell tower, see Qibao Template (it dates back to the 900s) and snap pics of the photogenic bridges and buildings along the Puhui River.
When you cruise from Shanghai, check the essential items off the to-do list: See the classical architecture of the Bund neighborhood and walk among the smell of tea and incense in the fortified Old City. Then, if you have extra time, see the nearby Qibao Ancient Town — check out the pagoda-like bell tower, see Qibao Template (it dates back to the 900s) and snap pics of the photogenic bridges and buildings along the Puhui River.
in Shanghai (Baoshan)
Better in the Bund
The Bund is Shanghai's art deco heritage neighborhood, with colonial architecture from the 1920s and '40s. Walk along the riverfront promenade at the golden hour for beautiful photos — from here, you can see the futuristic skyscrapers of Pudong's skyscrapers across the river.
Height of Adventure
Take a river cruise to see some of Shanghai's modern architectural highlights: The 1536-foot-tall Oriental Pearl Tower looks like something straight out of the Jetsons, while the twisting Shanghai Tower, the second tallest building in the world, is meant to evoke a lucky dragon coming out of the earth. The World Finance Center Tower looks like a giant bottle opener.
Ancient Ambiance
Get a feel for old China by wandering through the Yu Garden during your Shanghai cruise vacation. The classical garden is 400 years old, with carp-filled pools and bamboo groves. See more of ancient China at the Shanghai Museum, which has 120,000 ancient relics, including bronze artifacts and sculptures.
Local Cuisine
Eating in Shanghai is all about street food. You'll see people drinking from giant dumplings through strwas in a dish called xiao long bao — a soup dumpling. Join in, or eat them with chopsticks in a sit-down restaurant. Try cold noodles with eel, ginger and bamboo shoots, or pick up a flaky, pork-flecked scallion pancake — this comfort food is practically a way of life here.
Shopping
It's hard not to find shopping in Shanghai. Nanjing Road is the busiest, with everything from specialty food shops to modern malls. If you have time to get something tailored, try the South Bund Fabric Market. During your China cruise, pick up a distinctive Chinese red lantern at the Antique Market or at most street markets.
INSIDER TIP
China's currency is the renminbi (abbreviated as RMB) and also called the yuan. Shanghai has lots of ATMs, though not all accept foreign cards. Smaller Chinese cities don't always have ATMs, so it's wise to stock up on extra cash in Shanghai.
CRUISING
CAN'T MISS FAVORITES
Things to Do
THE SKY'S THE LIMIT
Stand in a jewel-shaped capsule that reveals breathtaking 360-degree views as you gently ascend 300 feet above sea level.
GRAVITY-DEFYING FUN
Experience the sheer thrill and exhilaration of flying in an air machine that lets you soar in a safe, controlled environment.
HAVE THE PLAYTIME OF YOUR LIFE
The largest indoor active space at sea is only on Royal Caribbean®. Basketball and bumper cars — it's the first time you'll ever play like this on a cruise.
Kobe, Japan
SAY ‘KONNICHIWA’ TO KOBE
Kobe has a melting-pot cultural allure that reflects its origins as a 19th century port city. The city is also all about its world-famous beef, served up by humble street vendors and Michelin-starred chefs alike. Once you've taken in the mountain views and strolled the historic streets, passing mansions once owned by well-to-do foreign merchants, catch a train to Osaka and eat like a sumo wrestler.
Kobe has a melting-pot cultural allure that reflects its origins as a 19th century port city. The city is also all about its world-famous beef, served up by humble street vendors and Michelin-starred chefs alike. Once you've taken in the mountain views and strolled the historic streets, passing mansions once owned by well-to-do foreign merchants, catch a train to Osaka and eat like a sumo wrestler.
in Kobe
Get in Hot Water
Onsen — a hot spring bath — is a unique Japanese pastime that will get you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated, and Arima Onsen is where you go to partake when in Kobe. Baths are filled with naturally occurring hot spring water, which locals claim has medicinal effects. Choose from day, half-day or spa packages, or sample a few different baths.
Hike the Heavens
The Nunobiki — or "Divine" — Falls are a natural wonder on the back of Mt. Rokko. A quick 15-minute walk will get you to the first of the four waterfalls — the biggest is a thundering 43 meters high. If walking isn't your thing, take the Shin-Kobe cable lift to the top. It takes you past all four falls and stops at the Nunobiki Herb Garden, where you can experience the colors and aromas of 200 different kinds of herbs and flowers.
Go Mansion-Hunting
Got a taste for classic luxury? Kobe's Kitano-cho district contains more than a dozen ijinkan, historic mansions formerly owned by foreign merchants who settled here. Today, they're open to the public as museums. The England House, France House and Dutch Museum reflect the origins of their former owners, who brought European sensibilities to their new Asian home.
Local Cuisine
There's only one city to go to if you want serious Kobe beef. Hang out with the locals at Nankingmachi Square, home to street-style Kobe beef a la carte. Want dinner and a show in one? Head to a teppanyaki restaurant, where your chef will cook your meal in front of you. If meat's not your thing, don't worry: Any steakhouse will also serve crunchy Yakiyasai (grilled vegetables) and Agedashi-dofu (crispy tofu with dipping sauce).
Shopping
To sample the freshest seafood Kobe has to offer with your Japan cruise, visit the Uonotana Fish Market, a wholesale marketplace boasting the day's catch. Later in the day, move on to the bustling Sannomiya shopping area, where streets are packed with stores selling everything from the latest fashions to traditional tea sets.
INSIDER TIP
You don't need to tip in Japan — save some cash (and an awkward moment) and only pay the amount of your bill.
Kobe, Japan
SAY ‘KONNICHIWA’ TO KOBE
Kobe has a melting-pot cultural allure that reflects its origins as a 19th century port city. The city is also all about its world-famous beef, served up by humble street vendors and Michelin-starred chefs alike. Once you've taken in the mountain views and strolled the historic streets, passing mansions once owned by well-to-do foreign merchants, catch a train to Osaka and eat like a sumo wrestler.
Kobe has a melting-pot cultural allure that reflects its origins as a 19th century port city. The city is also all about its world-famous beef, served up by humble street vendors and Michelin-starred chefs alike. Once you've taken in the mountain views and strolled the historic streets, passing mansions once owned by well-to-do foreign merchants, catch a train to Osaka and eat like a sumo wrestler.
in Kobe
Get in Hot Water
Onsen — a hot spring bath — is a unique Japanese pastime that will get you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated, and Arima Onsen is where you go to partake when in Kobe. Baths are filled with naturally occurring hot spring water, which locals claim has medicinal effects. Choose from day, half-day or spa packages, or sample a few different baths.
Hike the Heavens
The Nunobiki — or "Divine" — Falls are a natural wonder on the back of Mt. Rokko. A quick 15-minute walk will get you to the first of the four waterfalls — the biggest is a thundering 43 meters high. If walking isn't your thing, take the Shin-Kobe cable lift to the top. It takes you past all four falls and stops at the Nunobiki Herb Garden, where you can experience the colors and aromas of 200 different kinds of herbs and flowers.
Go Mansion-Hunting
Got a taste for classic luxury? Kobe's Kitano-cho district contains more than a dozen ijinkan, historic mansions formerly owned by foreign merchants who settled here. Today, they're open to the public as museums. The England House, France House and Dutch Museum reflect the origins of their former owners, who brought European sensibilities to their new Asian home.
Local Cuisine
There's only one city to go to if you want serious Kobe beef. Hang out with the locals at Nankingmachi Square, home to street-style Kobe beef a la carte. Want dinner and a show in one? Head to a teppanyaki restaurant, where your chef will cook your meal in front of you. If meat's not your thing, don't worry: Any steakhouse will also serve crunchy Yakiyasai (grilled vegetables) and Agedashi-dofu (crispy tofu with dipping sauce).
Shopping
To sample the freshest seafood Kobe has to offer with your Japan cruise, visit the Uonotana Fish Market, a wholesale marketplace boasting the day's catch. Later in the day, move on to the bustling Sannomiya shopping area, where streets are packed with stores selling everything from the latest fashions to traditional tea sets.
INSIDER TIP
You don't need to tip in Japan — save some cash (and an awkward moment) and only pay the amount of your bill.
Kyoto (Osaka), Japan
OLD JAPAN
At once a modern metropolis and a bastion of traditional Japanese culture, Kyoto is home to more than 1,600 Buddhist temples, 400 Shinto shrines and 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. After you take the 30-minute train journey from Osaka, see the iconic red gates of Fushimi Inari-taisha shrine. Then, stroll through Nishiki Market and pick up yakitori grilled chicken for a snack, and take in a panoramic view of the city from Kyoto Tower.
At once a modern metropolis and a bastion of traditional Japanese culture, Kyoto is home to more than 1,600 Buddhist temples, 400 Shinto shrines and 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. After you take the 30-minute train journey from Osaka, see the iconic red gates of Fushimi Inari-taisha shrine. Then, stroll through Nishiki Market and pick up yakitori grilled chicken for a snack, and take in a panoramic view of the city from Kyoto Tower.
in Kyoto (Osaka)
Golden Pavilion
A traveler's favorite for centuries and one of Japan's most famous sights, the gold-covered main hall of Kinkaku-ji temple seems to float between the sky and the pond of Kyoko-chi that it stands over. It was originally built in the 14th century as a villa for Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, a samurai lord. Snap photos while walking around Kyoko-chi, and see the temple from Sekka-tei Cottage — the view from here can't be beat.
Garden Without Plants
Not far from the Golden Pavilion, the Zen temple of Ryoan-ji is famed for its mysterious yet beautiful rock garden. This grouping of 15 rocks set in raked gravel is a delight to contemplate from the veranda of the Hojo, the residence of the temple's head priest. Walk around the tatami rooms, and admire the painted fusuma sliding doors. Don't miss the picturesque tsukubai stone washbasin with a bamboo pipe in the back — designed for the tea ceremony, it's inscribed with a Buddhist maxim saying one should be happy with what one already has.
Ten Thousand Gates
Beloved for its spectacular rows of red torii gates, this hilly, sprawling Shinto shrine is dedicated to Inari, the god of rice and business; you'll see statues of his messenger, the fox, everywhere. During your visit to Osaka, take the four-kilometer path up the mountain and lose yourself in this vermilion wonderland — the number of gates totals around 10,000. Small restaurants along the paths sell kitsune udon noodle soup and inarizushi rice balls.
Local Cuisine
As the kitchen for Japan's imperial court for centuries, Kyoto has a long tradition of excellent food. Get the full experience with Kyo-kaiseki-ryori, a multicourse meal of seasonal Kyoto cuisine: You'll be treated to many dishes made with exceptional attention to detail, including gently sashimi-style raw fish and vegetable dishes like turnips simmered in local water with white miso.
Shopping
Head to the Kyoto Handicraft Center near Heian-jingu shrine for a wide selection of Kyoto crafts including ironware kettles, woodblock prints, Japanese dolls, lacquer ware, as well as kimono and yukata (lightweight summer kimono). Visitors can also try their hand at making handicrafts, such as painting folding fans.
INSIDER TIP
For popular sites like the Golden Pavilion, be sure to arrive as early as possible to beat the crowds.
Mt. Fuji (Shimizu), Japan
UNFORGETTABLE FUJI
Mt. Fuji sightseeing is the name of the game in Shimizu. If there are no obscuring clouds, head to Miho-no-Matsubara<i>,</i> an emerald green pine grove next to the ocean, backdropped by the soaring volcano. Spend the rest of your time picking tea in the tranquil countryside, or indulge in the freshest sushi at the Shimizu Sushi Alley in S-Pulse Dream Plaza.
Mt. Fuji sightseeing is the name of the game in Shimizu. If there are no obscuring clouds, head to Miho-no-Matsubara<i>,</i> an emerald green pine grove next to the ocean, backdropped by the soaring volcano. Spend the rest of your time picking tea in the tranquil countryside, or indulge in the freshest sushi at the Shimizu Sushi Alley in S-Pulse Dream Plaza.
in Mt. Fuji (Shimizu)
White Peak, Black Sand
On cloudless days, the views of Mt. Fuji are everywhere. Head to the magical Miho-no-Matsubara Park pine grove. This black-sand beach framed by bright green pines gives you a clear view of the bulk of Mt. Fuji. Pay your respects for the sheer natural splendor at the nearby Miho Shrine during your Mt. Fuji cruise.
Tea Time
The Shizuoka prefecture is the most famous tea-producing region in the whole of Japan. From April to October, you can learn how to pick tea at Nihondaira Ocha Kaikan farm. Take the leaves you pick home with you, and learn about the history of tea at the Ocha-no-Sato Tea Museum. At the garden and teahouse on the museum grounds, you can enjoy matcha tea and sweets while gazing out over a Japanese garden.
Get Crafty
At the Sumpu Takumi Shuku Workshop, you can learn to make Japanese Sugura Crafts using age-old techniques passed down from the Edo era. Make your own lacquered chopsticks, learn how to dye a handkerchief with real indigo and create a delicate Mariko Koma basket.
Local Cuisine
Shimizu's fishermen haul in some of the highest-quality tuna in the whole of Japan. Head to Shimizu Sushi Alley and take your pick of the many delicious sushi restaurants, where you can enjoy this cold-water catch's delicate texture and nuanced flavor in its unadulterated form. Cruise to Mt. Fuji and venture out and try Sakura shrimp, tiny shrimp served raw or dried for a crunchy texture.
Shopping
Sugura crafts have been a high-quality export of Shizuku artisans for generations. Intricate gold and silver lacquerware (makie), handpainted banners (sashimono) and bamboo baskets (sensuji saiku) are beautiful examples of Japanese artisanal skill. Find these traditional handicrafts the S-Pulse Dream Plaza Souvenir Shopping Area.
INSIDER TIP
From October to November there is an international street performers competition in the center of town called the Daidogei World Cup.
Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan
TO ANCIENT SHRINES
Dive headfirst into the best kind of culture shock and catch a train to Tokyo from Yokohama. See iconic Shibuya crossing, where a dizzying array of pedestrian crosswalks overlooked by neon lights provides the ultimate urban sugar high. Or spend the day in nearby Kamakura — from the shore of its black beaches, you can spot the soaring bulk of Mt. Fuji.
Dive headfirst into the best kind of culture shock and catch a train to Tokyo from Yokohama. See iconic Shibuya crossing, where a dizzying array of pedestrian crosswalks overlooked by neon lights provides the ultimate urban sugar high. Or spend the day in nearby Kamakura — from the shore of its black beaches, you can spot the soaring bulk of Mt. Fuji.
in Tokyo (Yokohama)
Let Tokyo Impress You
Whether you take a guided tour or explore on your own, Tokyo will never disappoint. Scope out the cutting-edge fashion in Harajuku and learn all about Otaku culture in Akihabara. Stop off at the forested Meiji shrine and see the bright Sensoji Temple in Asakusa, a well-known geisha district.
Seaside Escape
Every summer, Tokyoites escape the heat by heading to the picturesque town of Kamakura. Take the classic Enoshima Electric Railway to the breathtaking Hase-Dera temple housing a gold-leafed statue of the goddess Kannon. Known for the popular Giant Buddha (Daibutsu), you can spot Mt. Fuji from the nearby charcoal black beaches of Inamuragasaki park.
Garden of Architecture
Sankeien Garden is the extravagant creation of a 20th-century silk trader. Dotting the grounds are 17 recreations of iconic buildings from across Japan. All perfectly balanced according to the season, the garden is a celebration of Japan. Cruise to Tokyo and join in a traditional tea ceremony, and learn how to wear a kimono.
Local Cuisine
Japan has some of the world's most renowned cuisine, and Tokyo is the epicenter of all that goodness. Try nigirizushi-style sushi, with simple, single cuts of delicate raw fish served over vinegared rice. Indulge in Tokyo's unique approach to the pan-Japanese noodle soup ramen — here, thin, wavy noodles luxuriate in a soy-infused chicken broth. Or snack on yakitori, grilled chicken skewers seasoned simply with salt or tare, a savory blend of fish-infused dashi broth, soy and vinegar.
Shopping
Harajuku in the heart of Tokyo is a shopaholic's dream. From the weird to the classy, you'll find the latest fashion and the coolest brands. For a broader experience, head to Yokohama's 150-year-old Motomachi Shopping street. Hosting a massive sale in September and February, Motomachi has something for everyone. Jump onboard a Tokyo cruise and make sure to bring home some of the region's famous silk, either in the form of a floral kimono or scarf.
INSIDER TIP
Rush hour in Tokyo is incredibly busy — give yourself some extra time to get back to the ship.
CRUISING
FOR FOODIES
Things to Do
A CUT ABOVE THE REST
For more than a decade, the chefs of Chops Grille have proudly presented quality, hand-cut prime steaks at this hallmark Royal Caribbean restaurant.
CRUISING
SHOW STOPPERS
Things to Do
AHH-INSPIRING IN ANY LIGHT
Go on a transformative journey from day to night in this grand room. By day, it's an open area living room with panoramic views. By night, the lights go down and the music fades up to reveal a spellbinding aerial show.
MIXOLOGY MEETS TECHNOLOGY
Meet two robotic bartenders who know how to shake up your night. At Bionic Bar® they can mix, muddle, and stir it up too.
Shanghai (Baoshan), China
BACK TO THE FUTURE
Most international flights arrive at Pudong Airport. Take the bullet train into the city; it takes only 8 minutes between the airport and Longyang Road Station. From there, check out Longhua Temple: You'll recognize its two-meter-tall copper bell from Steven Spielberg's "Empire of the Sun." Then, marvel at the modern skycrapers of Pudong — head to the Oriental Pearl Tower with its three distinctive spheres and get a 360-degree view of the city from the observation deck.
Most international flights arrive at Pudong Airport. Take the bullet train into the city; it takes only 8 minutes between the airport and Longyang Road Station. From there, check out Longhua Temple: You'll recognize its two-meter-tall copper bell from Steven Spielberg's "Empire of the Sun." Then, marvel at the modern skycrapers of Pudong — head to the Oriental Pearl Tower with its three distinctive spheres and get a 360-degree view of the city from the observation deck.
in Shanghai (Baoshan)
Better in the Bund
The Bund is Shanghai's art deco heritage neighborhood, with colonial architecture from the 1920s and '40s. Walk along the riverfront promenade at the golden hour for beautiful photos — from here, you can see the futuristic skyscrapers of Pudong's skyscrapers across the river.
Height of Adventure
Take a river cruise to see some of Shanghai's modern architectural highlights: The 1536-foot-tall Oriental Pearl Tower looks like something straight out of the Jetsons, while the twisting Shanghai Tower, the second tallest building in the world, is meant to evoke a lucky dragon coming out of the earth. The World Finance Center Tower looks like a giant bottle opener.
Ancient Ambiance
Get a feel for old China by wandering through the Yu Garden during your Shanghai cruise vacation. The classical garden is 400 years old, with carp-filled pools and bamboo groves. See more of ancient China at the Shanghai Museum, which has 120,000 ancient relics, including bronze artifacts and sculptures.
Local Cuisine
Eating in Shanghai is all about street food. You'll see people drinking from giant dumplings through strwas in a dish called xiao long bao — a soup dumpling. Join in, or eat them with chopsticks in a sit-down restaurant. Try cold noodles with eel, ginger and bamboo shoots, or pick up a flaky, pork-flecked scallion pancake — this comfort food is practically a way of life here.
Shopping
It's hard not to find shopping in Shanghai. Nanjing Road is the busiest, with everything from specialty food shops to modern malls. If you have time to get something tailored, try the South Bund Fabric Market. During your China cruise, pick up a distinctive Chinese red lantern at the Antique Market or at most street markets.
INSIDER TIP
Check visa rules carefully. They vary greatly depending on your nationality, length of stay, where you visit and if you re-enter the country.
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INSIDER TIP