Highlights of Japan from Shanghai

Cruise Itinerary

• Day 1: UK to Shanghai, China

  Fly from your chosen UK airport to Shanghai. On arrival be transferred to your hotel for a 3-night stay.

• Day 2-3: Shanghai, China

  Shanghai sits at the mouth of the Yangtze River on China's central coast and is the modern jewel in China's crown. One of the most cosmopolitan cities in the East; Shanghai boasts influences from Europe and America but still retains a Chinese foundation. Stroll along the famous Bund waterfront promenade and admire the colonial-era buildings on the way to Huangpu Park. Gaze across the Huangpu River at Pudong's futuristic skyline including Oriental Pearl Radio and TV Tower and Shanghai Tower. Meander through the traditional pavilions, towers, and ponds at Yu Garden and see the priceless statues in the Jade Buddha Temple. Learn about Chinese culture at the Shanghai Museum, stop by the historic Longhua Temple and Pagoda, and indulge in retail therapy on Nanjing Road. Witness Xujiahui Cathedral and Sheshan Basilica and discover the interactive multimedia exhibits at Shanghai Science and Technology Museum. Get up close to marine life at Shanghai Ocean Aquarium, encounter giant pandas and South China tigers at Shanghai Zoo, and experience the thrilling Shanghai Disney Resort.

• Day 4: Shanghai (Baoshan), China (Embarkation Day)

  After check-out be transferred to port for your 8-night cruise.

• Day 5: At sea

  Day at sea

• Day 6: Sakaiminato, Japan

  The Japanese city of Sakaiminato sits at the tip of the Yumigahama peninsula. Enjoy 360-degree panoramic vistas of the city from the observation desk at the top of Yume Minato Tower. View the 153 fine bronze yokai statues that line Mizuki Road and the unique displays and exhibits at Mizuki Shigeru Museum. Pay a visit to Izumo Grand Shrine, one of the oldest and most important Shinto temples in Japan, and also the famous 'black castle', Matsue Castle. Discover the restored Sakaiminato Light House and the fine carvings of tigers and dragons at Hinomisaki Shrine. Explore the 124-acre Tottori-Hanakairo Flower Park and also Yushien Garden on Daikon-Shima Island.

• Day 7: Kyoto (Maizuru), Japan

  Kyoto is home to one of the three most famous natural sights in Japan. Visit Amanohashidate, a pine covered sandbar that spans the mouth of the Miyazu Bay as well as other national and historical landmarks. Tourist spots of the Kansai Region can be accessed within 90 minutes from the port. Take a trip to San'in Kaigan Geopark, known as the museum of local topography and geology. Blessed with natural history, it makes for an interesting location to observe local culture and history.

• Day 8: Niigata, Japan

  Niigata is a port city in Honshu, Japan's main island. Along the Sea of Japan coast, the Marinepia Nihonkai Aquarium provides a fascinating insight into a variety of sea life species. See a fish-filled tunnel tank, as well as a penguin and sea lion exhibit. Discover Mount Yahiko and take a cable car to appreciate the idyllic surrounding views. Lake Hyoko is a 281-hectare reservoir area noted for its abundant bird life, particularly Whooper and Tundra swans. Take a peaceful walk around Hakusan Park to admire the lush greenery or Shibata Castle is a popular historic site for a look into Japanese life. Uncover the open-air Northern Culture Museum and its well-known mansion, gardens, and houses of the Edo period.

• Day 9: Hakodate, Japan

  Hakodate is one of the main cities on Japan's northernmost island, Hokkaido. Admire the 334m-high Mount Hakodate that looms over the town; ride the aerial ropeway gondola to the mountain's summit for Michelin-starred views of the nightscape. At its base is Motomachi, a neighbourhood of steep streets with Western-style, early-20th-century buildings. Pay a visit the grand Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward which was built in 1910. Stop by Hakodate Asaichi morning market to taste the Kaisendon local delicacy – a bowl of white rice topped with fresh seafood. Hop on the city tram to see the unique star-shaped Fort Goyokaku or take a train ride to Yunokawa Onsen hot spring resort to soak in the therapeutic waters.

• Day 10 - 11: At sea

  Days at sea

• Day 12: Shanghai (Baoshan), China to UK (Disembarkation day)

  Today your cruise comes to an end. Disembark and be transferred to the airport for your return flight to the UK.