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Shanghai (Baoshan) , China | Vladivostok , Russia | Kyoto (Maizuru) , Japan | Fukuoka , 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
FAVORITTER
Ting å gjøre
THE SKY'S THE LIMIT
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.
GRAVITY-DEFYING FUN
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.
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.
CRUISING
FOR MATELSKERE
Ting å gjøre
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.
Vladivostok, Russia
FAR-EAST GEM
Say "privet" — Russian for "hello" — to history with a trip to Vladivostok Fortress, with its 19th-century military fortifications, and catch a traditional changing of the guard ceremony. Get up-close and personal with the dolphins of Primorsky Aquarium, or head out onto the water yourself and go for a stand-up paddleboarding adventure just off the Vladivostok Embankment.
Say "privet" — Russian for "hello" — to history with a trip to Vladivostok Fortress, with its 19th-century military fortifications, and catch a traditional changing of the guard ceremony. Get up-close and personal with the dolphins of Primorsky Aquarium, or head out onto the water yourself and go for a stand-up paddleboarding adventure just off the Vladivostok Embankment.
in Vladivostok
Historic Stronghold
Check out Vladivostok Fortress: Its placards tell the story of the Russo-Japanese War. Enjoy a more inspiring history of the city by visiting the museum erected to honor Vladimir Arsenyev, whose explorations led to the founding of the city.
Animals Abound
Primorsky Aquarium, appropriately shaped like a half-shell, is home to a small population of extremely friendly dolphins, which greet visitors several times per day. Alternatively, head to Primorye Safari Park, where Siberian tigers are in easy range of your camera, but far enough away not to eat you.
The Glass is Greener
While Vladivostok has only a few weeks per year of what can be considered beach weather, you don't have to visit in summer to enjoy the sea in Siberia. During your Russia cruise, carve out some time for an ice-fishing adventure, or take a walk along nearby Glass Beach, where eroded glass deposited over years has become multicolored stones on the shoreline.
Local Cuisine
With a location closer to Seoul than Moscow — by a long shot — Vladivostok's cuisine is markedly Asian-inspired. Try Korean-inflected Pian-se dumplings, where ground meat, onions, spices and cabbage come together inside soft, steamed dough. Cruise to Russia and dig into this port city's top-notch cold-water seafood: Stop by the vendors at Sportivnaya Market and have them prepare you giant crab legs, ultra-fresh sea urchin or king prawns to eat on the spot.
Shopping
Shopping in Vladivostok is as diverse an experience as eating there, with goods that range from traditional Russian Matryoshka dolls to avant-garde paintings by local artists or Korean-influenced blue-and-white Ghzel porcelain plates and household items. You'll also find a large selection of locally produced liqueurs, including regional favorite Ussuri Balsam, a type of bitters flavored with the lemongrass that grows wild here.
INSIDER TIP
As is the case even in Moscow and St. Petersburg, most local Russians don't speak English. Download Russian in your phone's "Translate" app, and cache it so you can use it offline.
CRUISING
FANTASTISKE SHOW
Ting å gjøre
AHH-INSPIRING IN ANY LIGHT
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.
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.
Kyoto (Maizuru), Japan
BLESSED BY NATURE
After docking in Maizuru, make your way to the Goro Sky Tower for sweeping views of the green Japanese countryside joining the blue ocean — these are some of the best vistas in all Japan. Stop in nearby Amanohashidate to see Naraiji temple and its statue of Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy. Head further inland to see the opulent, stunning temples of Kyoto, including iconic Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine.
After docking in Maizuru, make your way to the Goro Sky Tower for sweeping views of the green Japanese countryside joining the blue ocean — these are some of the best vistas in all Japan. Stop in nearby Amanohashidate to see Naraiji temple and its statue of Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy. Head further inland to see the opulent, stunning temples of Kyoto, including iconic Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine.
in Kyoto (Maizuru)
Brick and Mortar
Because Maizuru was a naval base, many buildings were built with striking red brick instead of traditional wood. Learn exactly how brick transformed this little seaside town at the Maizuru Brick Park. Don't forget to take a peek at the nearby naval ships floating casually in the bay.
Winding to the Heavens
The road to the Goro Sky Tower is almost as beautiful as the view from the tower itself. Winding up the side of a mountain, you'll find yourself surrounded by never-ending peaks and the vast blue ocean. From the tower, things get even better with an uninterrupted 360-degree view of the sea and the mountains.
Sandbar Stopover
Amanohashidate, translated as "Bridge in Heaven," is a picturesque sandbar stretching across the mouth of Miyazu Bay. With temples on either side, you can walk its length and enjoy the fine white sand. At the nearby Kitahama beach, the unique sand squeaks and sings as you step on it.
Local Cuisine
Try a shojin ryori, a vegetarian set menu of seasonal Japanese vegetables and tofu. If vegetarian food isn't your thing, the Maizuru Port Toretore Center has the freshest fish available in the whole of Kyoto. Be sure to try whatever fish is in season during your visit to Kyoto.
Shopping
Pick up packets of Japanese seaweed snacks or dried fish at the Maixuru Port Toretore Center. For an unforgettable fashion experience, head inland to the Nishijin Textile center. You'll be treated to an array of brightly colored kimono and cloth imprinted with traditional floral designs.
INSIDER TIP
Maizuru is quite spread out, so keep an eye on the time to make sure you make it back for departure.
Fukuoka, Japan
FUKUOKA’S GOT FLAVOR
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.
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.
in Fukuoka
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
INSIDER TIP
There's no tipping in Japan, but there is a blanket 8 percent sales tax. Look for tax-free sales promotions.
CRUISING
FAVORITTER
Ting å gjøre
THE SKY'S THE LIMIT
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.
GRAVITY-DEFYING FUN
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.
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.
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