Best Of Japan Cruise 11 netter • Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan • Voyager of the Seas

Yokohama is the central gateway to exploring Tokyo, a once-humble fishing village that is now one of the world's biggest, most densely populated cities. You'll find an eclectic mix of traditional shrines and soaring skyscrapers lining these neon-lit streets. Walk the Rainbow Bridge over Tokyo Bay alongside the Yurikamome Rail Line, a futuristic, operatorless train system. Then, see old Tokyo at the Imperial Palace, an Edo Castle surrounded by moats and gardens perfect for strolling. Cruise to Tokyo and head to iconic Sensoji Buddhist Temple and pass below the massive red paper lantern of the Thunder Gate. Then, unwind in Yoyogi Park, a literal forest in the heart of the city, complete with Zen gardens and a gingko tree forest.

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.

Kumamoto City proudly traces its roots to Japan's samurai age — see these roots on clear display at 15th-century Kumamoto Castle and its cherry-tree-covered grounds. Then, stroll through traditional Suizenji Garden, with its manicured trees and artificial mountain replicating Mount Fuji. Or head outside the city for a dose of nature and climb volcanic Mount Aso, the site of one of the world's largest volcanic calderas.

Immerse yourself in Jeju's brilliant green landscape and breathtaking peaks. Tackle the challenge of hiking up the dormant volcano Mount Hallasan volcano, or stroll through forested walking trails to the mystical Cheonjeyeon Falls. Then, have a bit of fun exploring the quirky Teddy Bear Museum. Or relax in an herb sauna or jjimjilbang, a Korean bathhouse, at Jeju WaterWorld.

Take a boat tour to the Kujukushima Islands, 208 emerald-green islands dotted along the coast, famous for their jagged shores. From the observatory decks on Mt. Ishidake or Mt. Hiyamizudake, enjoy panoramic views of the islands, mountains and bay. Then, explore the unique Huis Ten Bosch Theme Park, or stop in at the Kujukushima Aquarium to learn how to harvest pearls.

Fukuoka is a historic port city where cultural imports from the Asian mainland were introduced to Japan. Explore Japan's first Zen Buddhist temple at Shofukuji. Then, see the ruins of Fukuoka Castle amid the dazzling cherry blossoms of Maizuru Park. Or hit the sands at Momochi Seaside Park, a long artificial beach along the waterfront, with modern skyscrapers towering behind you and forest-covered mountains in the distance.

Soak in the mix of history and scenery that is Kagoshima. Stroll through a samurai garden overlooking the sea at Sengan-en. Fill up on local korubuta pork, then finish your day with a memorable view of the city and the volcano in the distance at Shiroyama Lookout.

Mt. Fuji sightseeing is the name of the game in Shimizu. If there are no obscuring clouds, head to Miho-no-Matsubara, 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.

Yokohama is the central gateway to exploring Tokyo, a once-humble fishing village that is now one of the world's biggest, most densely populated cities. You'll find an eclectic mix of traditional shrines and soaring skyscrapers lining these neon-lit streets. Walk the Rainbow Bridge over Tokyo Bay alongside the Yurikamome Rail Line, a futuristic, operatorless train system. Then, see old Tokyo at the Imperial Palace, an Edo Castle surrounded by moats and gardens perfect for strolling. Cruise to Tokyo and head to iconic Sensoji Buddhist Temple and pass below the massive red paper lantern of the Thunder Gate. Then, unwind in Yoyogi Park, a literal forest in the heart of the city, complete with Zen gardens and a gingko tree forest.