Bucket List China & Japan

Today, depart for Beijing, China. Upon arrival, a tour representative will meet you at the airport and transfer you to the hotel.

Please note:
• Some travellers may depart on Day 0.
• Some travellers may have an overnight layover in China with accommodation and transfers provided by the airline.
• Some travellers may have an overnight layover in an Australian city with airport accommodation provided (excluding transfers).

Overnight: Ramada Beijing North or similar, Beijing

Meals included: In-Flight

After breakfast, visit Tiananmen Square, one of the largest public squares in the world. Then head to the Imperial Palace in the Forbidden City, known officially as the Imperial Palace Museum. This was originally constructed by Emperor Yong Le, the third Emperor of the Ming Dynasty. The palace was built between 1406 and 1420 but has been renovated countless times. This means that most of the architecture you see today dates from the 1700's and onwards.

In the event that tickets can not be secured, you'll visit The Temple of Heaven instead. The Temple of Heaven, founded in the first half of the 15th century, is a dignified complex of fine cult buildings set in gardens and surrounded by historic pine woods. In its overall layout and that of its individual buildings, it symbolises the relationship between earth and heaven (the human world and God's world). It stands at the heart of Chinese cosmogony and the special role played by the emperors within that relationship.

Optional Activity: 'The Golden Mask Dynasty' Musical
Tonight, take the opportunity to attend an optional large-scale dramatic musical, ‘The Golden Mask Dynasty’. This is not included and is paid on tour. Please see current pricing in Important Information.

Please note:
• Scheduling of attractions and activities may be alternated for the days in Beijing (Days 2 to 4).
• There is a daily limit on the number of tickets available for The Forbidden City, therefore entry cannot be guaranteed and is subject to availability.

Overnight: Ramada Beijing North or similar, Beijing

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast, head to a Jade Museum to learn about this precious gemstone. In Chinese, jade is pronounced as “Yu” and has a history of at least four thousand years in China. Observe skilled artisans at work as they create their intricate designs.

Afterwards, enjoy a scenic drive through the countryside and mountains to reach China’s most renowned monument, the Great Wall. Along the way, you'll stop for a delicious Peking duck lunch, one of Beijing's most famous dishes (vegetarian options will be available also). On arrival at the Great Wall, you will visit the less-busy and more original Juyong Pass, avoiding other sections that are the most accessible and consequently most crowded. The Great Wall meanders through China’s northern mountain ranges from the Yellow Sea to the Gobi Desert, a distance of more than 5,600 kilometres.

Optional Activity: Hutong Pedicab Tour & Dinner
In the afternoon, take the opportunity to join an optional tour of Beijing’s 700-year-old Hutongs (narrow lanes) area by old-fashioned pedicab. You will also visit a local family living in a courtyard-style home to experience the local customs, including a delicious home-cooked dinner. The optional tour also includes visiting Shichahai, a historic scenic area consisting of three lakes (Qianhai, Houhai and Xihai) which surround places of historic interest, scenic beauty and remnants of old-style hutong and courtyard local residences. This activity is not included and must be paid on tour. Please see current pricing in Important Information.

Please note:
• Scheduling of attractions and activities may be alternated for the days in Beijing (Days 2 to 4).
• The old-fashioned pedicab operation may be suspended without prior notice and a replacement optional tour will be offered.

Overnight: Ramada Beijing North or similar, Beijing

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch

After breakfast, head to a traditional Chinese health centre where you’ll learn about acupuncture, herbal medicine, and other wellness practices integral to Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Then, travel to the airport for your onward flight to Shanghai where, upon arrival, a tour representative will meet and transfer you to Suzhou, where you can check into your hotel for an evening at leisure.

Please note:
• A high speed rail journey may be provided in place of your domestic flight.
• Domestic flight/train tickets will be distributed by your tour guide on arrival in China and in some cases you may find a domestic flight within China included in your attached international flight ticket.
• If you do not provide your passport details at least 60 days prior to departure you may not be in the same flight or train carriage or on the same train as your companions and as other group members.
• If you provide incorrect passport details, you may be required to purchase new tickets at your own expense upon arrival.
• The seating arrangement on high-speed trains consists of a row of 2 seats and a row of 3 seats. Due to this, we cannot guarantee you a seat right next to your travel companion on this journey.
• The order of Suzhou, Wuxi, Hangzhou and Shanghai from Day 4 to 8 may be swapped due to operational considerations, but all inclusions will remain the same.

Overnight: Snowy Sea Hotel or similar, Suzhou

Meals included: Breakfast

Suzhou has a history dating back to 514 BC and is often referred to as ‘Venice of the East’. Here you'll visit the famous UNESCO-listed Lingering Garden before stopping by a silk spinning factory as China is renowned for its exquisite silk.

In the afternoon, drive approximately 40 kilometres to Wuxi and visit Lihu Park, a serene oasis nestled along the picturesque shores of Lake Lihu. Here you'll find lush greenery, scenic walking paths and charming bridges, take time to admire the peaceful views as you spot locals cycling around the lake, fishing and boating along the water.

Optional Activity: Grand Canal Cruise
Take the opportunity to cruise along the Grand Canal to view life along China’s ancient waterway. This activity is not included and must be paid on tour. Please see current pricing in Important Information.

Please note: The order of Suzhou, Wuxi, Hangzhou and Shanghai from Day 4 to 8 may be swapped due to operational considerations, but all inclusions will remain the same.

Overnight: Mingdu Hotel or similar, Wuxi

Meals included: Breakfast

This morning, gain an insight into China’s enormous manufacturing and production capabilities by visiting a Pearl Factory to learn about freshwater pearls, a key export commodity with great cultural significance since the Han dynasty.

Afterwards, drive approximately 200 kilometres to Hangzhou where you can check into your hotel for an evening at leisure.

Please note: The order of Suzhou, Wuxi, Hangzhou and Shanghai from Day 4 to 8 may be swapped due to operational considerations however, all inclusions will remain the same.

Overnight: Fubang International Hotel or similar, Hangzhou

Meals included: Breakfast

Hangzhou is considered one of the tea capitals of China, so a visit to the city just isn’t complete without a trip to a local tea house. Make a special visit to the Tea House at Meijiawu Tea Village, located in the hinterland of West Lake Park, considered one of the most important Longjing Tea productions in China. This is a chance to enjoy the natural environment and beautiful village scenery while learning more about their special tea culture. At the Tea House, learn how to make Longjing Tea including picking, frying and tasting the tea leaves.

Afterwards, enjoy a short boat ride on the UNESCO-listed West Lake to marvel at the ethereal beauty of Hangzhou's willow-draped islands.

Drive approximately 175 kilometres to Shanghai to visit the famous Bund, a five-block riverfront promenade with many of Shanghai's banks and trading houses. You'll discover Shanghai is divided by the Huangpu River with modern mega-high rises on the eastern side and traditional European-style architecture on the western side.

Optional Activity: ERA & The Intersection of Time
Tonight, take part in an optional activity to watch a superb and thrilling Chinese Acrobatic Show, “ERA: The Intersection of Time” or similar. This activity is not included and must be paid on tour. Please see current pricing in Important Information.

Please note: The order of Suzhou, Wuxi, Hangzhou and Shanghai from Day 4 to 8 may be swapped due to operational considerations, but all inclusions will remain the same.

Overnight: Courtyard by Marriott Jiading or similar, Shanghai

Meals included: Breakfast

This morning, you'll have the chance to step back in time at the Shanghai History Museum, a landmark museum that comprehensively reflects the local history of Shanghai. In the afternoon, enjoy free time at leisure or join an optional activity (not included, paid on tour).

Optional Activity: Half-Day Shanghai Tour
Join a half-day tour of Shanghai visiting the exquisite Yu Garden which is believed to have been built more than 400 years ago. Other attractions include Xintiandi, Old Town and Nanjing Road. This activity is not included and must be paid on tour. Please see current pricing in Important Information.

Optional Activity: Huangpu River Night Cruise
Take the opportunity to join the optional night cruise on the Huangpu River. This activity is not included and must be paid on tour. Please see current pricing in Important Information.

Please note:
• If the Shanghai History Museum is closed, a visit to the Suzhou Museum will be provided in place of this visit on Day 5 of the tour (when in Suzhou).
• The order of Suzhou, Wuxi, Hangzhou and Shanghai from Day 4 to 8 may be swapped due to operational considerations, but all inclusions will remain the same.

Overnight: Courtyard by Marriott Jiading or similar, Shanghai

Meals included: Breakfast

Today, be transferred to the Port of Baoshan to board Royal Caribbean's Spectrum of the Seas ship for your 8-night cruise to Japan.

Departs at 16:30

Overnight: Royal Caribbean's Spectrum of the Seas

Meals included: Breakfast; Dinner

While at sea, take time to recharge before the next adventure. Lounge by the pool, treat yourself at the spa (charges apply), discover the onboard restaurants or explore the thrills on each deck until arriving at the next destination.

Overnight: Royal Caribbean's Spectrum of the Seas

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Docked: 09:00 - 19:00

Welcome to Sakaiminato, a unique port city on the Sea of Japan best known as the "City of Yokai," the mythical monsters of Japanese folklore. Just a short trip from the cruise pier, immerse yourself in the whimsical world of local manga artist Shigeru Mizuki along Mizuki Shigeru Road, where you'll find nearly 180 bronze statues of his famous yokai characters and an accompanying museum. Be sure to indulge in the city's other great specialty: remarkably fresh seafood, including prized crab and Bluefin tuna, available for sale at the bustling Sakaiminato Marine Products Direct Sales Center.

Beyond the yokai and the fresh catches, Sakaiminato is a convenient gateway to the cultural and scenic wonders of the San'in region. You could join an optional shore excursion to the world-renowned Adachi Museum of Art, celebrated for its stunning Japanese gardens and modern paintings, or make your way to the historic Matsue Castle, one of Japan's few original feudal-era castles (charges apply). Alternatively, you could join an optional shore excursion to explore the ancient and sacred Izumo Grand Shrine, dedicated to the god of marriage and known for its massive straw rope (shimenawa).

Overnight: Royal Caribbean's Spectrum of the Seas

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Docked: 07:00 - 17:00

Maizuru is a peaceful entry into the scenic "Kyoto by the Sea" region, offering a perfect blend of naval history and stunning natural landscapes. The city is split into two distinct areas: the eastern district, defined by its historic Maizuru Red Brick Park - a collection of beautifully preserved former naval storehouses, including a unique World Brick Museum - and the western, older castle town of Nishi-Maizuru. Immerse yourself in this unique heritage by taking a Maizuru Bay Sightseeing Boat Cruise for close-up views of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force vessels and the picturesque Ria coastline, or ascend the Goro Sky Tower for a breathtaking panorama of the deep, sheltered bay (charges apply).

Maizuru serves as an excellent, less-crowded gateway for excursions to one of Japan's most famous natural sights: Amanohashidate, the "Bridge to the Heavens," a stunning pine-covered sandbar considered one of the Three Views of Japan.

Nearby, explore the charming, traditional fishing village of Ine, famous for its unique waterfront Funaya (boathouses) that appear to float on the water. For those interested in local flavour, the Maizuru Port Tore Tore Center is a must-visit seafood market, providing an opportunity to sample the freshest catches from the Sea of Japan, including local crab.

Overnight: Royal Caribbean's Spectrum of the Seas

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Docked: 08:00 - 17:00

Niigata, also known as the“Land of Rice and Sake,” a historic port city on the Sea of Japan celebrated for its world-class Koshihikari rice, top-tier sake breweries, and exceptional seafood. Within the city centre, you can easily access key attractions such as the Befco Bakauke Observatory at Toki Messe for free, 360-degree panoramic view of the city and the Shinano River, or walk the historic Bandai Bridge, which connects the old Furumachi district to the modern Bandai City. A must-do is a visit to Ponshukan inside Niigata Station, where you can famously sample over 100 varieties of local sake from vending machines, followed by tasting the city's celebrated Kiwami Sushi platter (not included), which showcases the freshest local catches and premium rice.

For a deeper cultural dive, consider exploring the city's rich history through its beautiful architecture and arts; you can tour the sprawling, aristocratic former residence now known as the Northern Culture Museum to see the wealth of the region's historic farming families, or stroll the atmospheric Nuttari Terrace Street and the old Furumachi District, which is one of the last remaining districts in Japan to preserve the tradition of Geigi (Geisha) dance performances. The port area also conveniently features Pia Bandai, a lively direct-sales market where you can shop for fresh seafood, local produce, and unique regional snacks, perfectly representing Niigata's proud culinary heritage.

Overnight: Royal Caribbean's Spectrum of the Seas

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Dock: 07:30 - 19:00

Hakodate is located on the historic southern tip of Hokkaido, Japan's first port to open to international trade, resulting in a city famous for its unique blend of Japanese and Western architecture, stunning vistas, and fresh seafood. The two main attractions are the magnificent Mount Hakodate, renowned globally for its Michelin three-star panoramic view of the city nestled between two bays (accessible via a quick 3-minute ropeway ride from the lower station), and the historic Goryokaku Park, a massive, star-shaped, Western-style fortress that is breathtaking when viewed from the top of the Goryokaku Tower (charges apply).

Hakodate's port area is exceptionally accessible, often offering free shuttle buses to the downtown core near JR Hakodate Station, which is the perfect starting point for your day. Steps away from the station lies the vibrant Hakodate Morning Market (Asa-ichi), a must-visit culinary hub where you can sample fresh-caught squid (the city's mascot), sea urchin, and other Hokkaido specialties, or even try the unique experience of fishing for your own squid.

From there, it's a short journey to the Motomachi District, which showcases the city's international history through preserved foreign buildings like churches and the Old Public Hall, and the Kanemori Red Brick Warehouses, a beautifully renovated waterfront complex filled with shops and dining, ideal for souvenir hunting.

Overnight: Royal Caribbean's Spectrum of the Seas

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Enjoy a day at leisure while cruising onboard the Spectrum of the Seas.

Overnight: Royal Caribbean's Spectrum of the Seas

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Enjoy a day at leisure while cruising onboard the Spectrum of the Seas.

Overnight: Royal Caribbean's Spectrum of the Seas

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Arrive: 07:00

Arrive back at the Port of Baoshan and make your own way to the airport for your return flight home.

Please note:
• Some travellers may be required to depart a day later so additional accommodation and transfers will be provided free of charge. This will not apply to passengers departing before 02:00 the following day.
• Perth and Brisbane travellers may arrive back in Australia on the same day (Day 17).

Meals included: Breakfast; In-Flight

Please note: Some travellers may arrive back into Australia +1 day (Day 19) or very late on Day 17.

Today, depart for Beijing, China. Upon arrival, a tour representative will meet you at the airport and transfer you to the hotel.

Please note:
• Some travellers may depart on Day 0.
• Some travellers may have an overnight layover in China with accommodation and transfers provided by the airline.
• Some travellers may have an overnight layover in an Australian city with airport accommodation provided (excluding transfers).

Overnight: Ramada Beijing North or similar, Beijing

Meals included: In-Flight

After breakfast, visit Tiananmen Square, one of the largest public squares in the world. You'll then head to the Imperial Palace in the Forbidden City, known officially as the Imperial Palace Museum. This was originally constructed by Emperor Yong Le, the third Emperor of the Ming Dynasty. The palace was built between 1406 and 1420 but has been burnt down, rebuilt, sacked and renovated countless times. This means that most of the architecture you see today dates from the 1700s and onwards.

In the event that tickets can not be secured, visit The Temple of Heaven instead. The Temple of Heaven, founded in the first half of the 15th century, is a dignified complex of fine cult buildings set in gardens and surrounded by historic pine woods. In its overall layout and that of its individual buildings, it symbolises the relationship between earth and heaven (the human world and God's world). It stands at the heart of Chinese cosmogony and the special role played by the emperors within that relationship.

Optional Activity: 'The Golden Mask Dynasty' Musical
Tonight, take the opportunity to attend an optional large-scale dramatic musical, ‘The Golden Mask Dynasty’. This is not included and is paid on tour. Please see current pricing in Important Information.

Please note:
• Scheduling of attractions and activities may be alternated for the days in Beijing (Days 2 to 4).
• There is a daily limit on the number of tickets available for The Forbidden City, therefore entry cannot be guaranteed and is subject to availability.

Overnight: Ramada Beijing North or similar, Beijing

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast, head to a Jade Museum to learn about this precious gemstone. In Chinese, jade is pronounced as “Yu” and has a history of at least four thousand years in China. Observe skilled artisans at work as they create their intricate designs.

Afterwards, enjoy a scenic drive through the countryside and mountains to reach China’s most renowned monument, the Great Wall. Along the way, you'll stop for a delicious Peking duck lunch, one of Beijing's most famous dishes (vegetarian options will be available also). On arrival at the Great Wall, you will visit the less-busy and more original Juyong Pass, avoiding other sections that are the most accessible and consequently most crowded. The Great Wall meanders through China’s northern mountain ranges from the Yellow Sea to the Gobi Desert, a distance of more than 5,600 kilometres.

Optional Activity: Hutong Pedicab Tour & Dinner
In the afternoon, take the opportunity to join an optional tour of Beijing’s 700-year-old Hutongs (narrow lanes) area by old-fashioned pedicab. You will also visit a local family living in a courtyard-style home to experience the local customs, including a delicious home-cooked dinner. The optional tour also includes visiting Shichahai, a historic scenic area consisting of three lakes (Qianhai, Houhai and Xihai) which surround places of historic interest, scenic beauty and remnants of old-style hutong and courtyard local residences. This activity is not included and must be paid on tour. Please see current pricing in Important Information.

Please note:
• Scheduling of attractions and activities may be alternated for the days in Beijing (Days 2 to 4).
• The old-fashioned pedicab operation may be suspended without prior notice and a replacement optional tour will be offered.

Overnight: Ramada Beijing North or similar, Beijing

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch

After breakfast, head to a traditional Chinese health centre where you’ll learn about acupuncture, herbal medicine, and other wellness practices integral to Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Then, travel to the airport for your onward flight to Shanghai where, upon arrival, a tour representative will meet you and transfer you to Suzhou. You can then check into your hotel for an evening at leisure.

Please note:
• A high speed rail journey may be provided in place of your domestic flight.
• Domestic flight/train tickets will be distributed by your tour guide on arrival in China and in some cases you may find a domestic flight within China included in your attached international flight ticket.
• If you do not provide your passport details at least 60 days prior to departure you may not be in the same flight or train carriage or on the same train as your companions and as other group members.
• If you provide incorrect passport details, you may be required to purchase new tickets at your own expense upon arrival.
• The seating arrangement on high-speed trains consists of a row of 2 seats and a row of 3 seats. Due to this, we cannot guarantee you a seat right next to your travel companion on this journey.
• The order of Suzhou, Wuxi, Hangzhou and Shanghai from Day 4 to 8 may be swapped due to operational considerations, but all inclusions will remain the same.

Overnight: Snowy Sea Hotel or similar, Suzhou

Meals included: Breakfast

Suzhou has a history dating back to 514 BC and is often referred to as ‘Venice of the East’. Here you'll visit the famous UNESCO-listed Lingering Garden before stopping by a silk spinning factory as China is renowned for its exquisite silk.

In the afternoon, drive approximately 40 kilometres to Wuxi and visit Lihu Park, a serene oasis nestled along the picturesque shores of Lake Lihu. This is where you'll find lush greenery, scenic walking paths and charming bridges so make time to admire the peaceful views as you spot locals cycling around the lake, fishing and boating along the water.

Optional Activity: Grand Canal Cruise
Take the opportunity to cruise along the Grand Canal to view life along China’s ancient waterway. This activity is not included and must be paid on tour. Please see current pricing in Important Information.

Please note: The order of Suzhou, Wuxi, Hangzhou and Shanghai from Day 4 to 8 may be swapped due to operational considerations, but all inclusions will remain the same.

Overnight: Mingdu Hotel or similar, Wuxi

Meals included: Breakfast

This morning, gain an insight into China’s enormous manufacturing and production capabilities by visiting a Pearl Factory to learn about freshwater pearls, a key export commodity with great cultural significance since the Han dynasty.

Afterwards, drive approximately 200 kilometres to Hangzhou where you can check into your hotel for an evening at leisure.

Please note: The order of Suzhou, Wuxi, Hangzhou and Shanghai from Day 4 to 8 may be swapped due to operational considerations however, all inclusions will remain the same.

Overnight: Fubang International Hotel or similar, Hangzhou

Meals included: Breakfast

Hangzhou is considered one of the tea capitals of China, so a visit to the city just isn’t complete without a trip to a local tea house. Today you'll make a special visit to the Tea House at Meijiawu Tea Village, located in the hinterland of West Lake Park which is considered one of the most important Longjing Tea productions in China. This is your chance to enjoy the natural environment and beautiful village scenery while learning more about their special tea culture. At the Tea House, you'll learn how to make Longjing Tea including picking, frying and tasting the tea leaves.

Afterwards, enjoy a short boat ride on the UNESCO-listed West Lake to marvel at the ethereal beauty of Hangzhou's willow-draped islands.

Drive approximately 175 kilometres to Shanghai to visit the famous Bund, a five-block riverfront promenade with many of Shanghai's banks and trading houses. You'll discover that Shanghai is divided by the Huangpu River with modern mega-high rises on the eastern side and traditional European-style architecture on the western side.

Optional Activity: ERA & The Intersection of Time
Tonight you can take part in an optional activity to watch a superb and thrilling Chinese Acrobatic Show, “ERA: The Intersection of Time” or similar. This activity is not included and must be paid on tour. Please see current pricing in Important Information.

Please note: The order of Suzhou, Wuxi, Hangzhou and Shanghai from Day 4 to 8 may be swapped due to operational considerations, but all inclusions will remain the same.

Overnight: Courtyard by Marriott Jiading or similar, Shanghai

Meals included: Breakfast

This morning, you'll have the chance to step back in time at the Shanghai History Museum, a landmark museum that comprehensively reflects the local history of Shanghai. In the afternoon, you can enjoy free time at leisure or join an optional activity (not included, paid on tour).

Optional Activity: Half-Day Shanghai Tour
Join a half-day tour of Shanghai visiting the exquisite Yu Garden which is believed to have been built more than 400 years ago. Other attractions include Xintiandi, Old Town and Nanjing Road. This activity is not included and must be paid on tour. Please see current pricing in Important Information.

Optional Activity: Huangpu River Night Cruise
In the evening, take the opportunity to join the optional night cruise on the Huangpu River. This activity is not included and must be paid on tour. Please see current pricing in Important Information.

Please note:
• If the Shanghai History Museum is closed, a visit to the Suzhou Museum will be provided in place of this visit on Day 5 of the tour (when in Suzhou).
• The order of Suzhou, Wuxi, Hangzhou and Shanghai from Day 4 to 8 may be swapped due to operational considerations, but all inclusions will remain the same.

Overnight: Courtyard by Marriott Jiading or similar, Shanghai

Meals included: Breakfast

Today, you will be transferred to the Port of Baoshan where you'll board Royal Caribbean's Spectrum of the Seas ship for your 8-night cruise to Japan.

Departs at 16:30

Overnight: Royal Caribbean's Spectrum of the Seas

Meals included: Breakfast; Dinner

While at sea, take time to recharge before the next adventure. Lounge by the pool, treat yourself at the spa (charges apply), discover the onboard restaurants or explore the thrills on each deck until we arrive at the next destination.

Overnight: Royal Caribbean's Spectrum of the Seas

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Enjoy a day at leisure while cruising onboard the Spectrum of the Seas.

Overnight: Royal Caribbean's Spectrum of the Seas

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Docked: 05:30 - 20:00

Tokyo is an exhilarating metropolis that perfectly blends ancient tradition with future-forward technology, offering visitors a dynamic contrast of experiences. For a glimpse into its deep history, visit the iconic Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, the city's oldest Buddhist temple, and stroll the vibrant Nakamise shopping street. For a moment of serenity amidst the urban buzz, explore the vast, tranquil forest surrounding the sacred Meiji Jingu Shinto Shrine, providing a peaceful escape right in the heart of the city.

The city's famously efficient transportation system quickly connects you to its world-renowned urban centres. Stand at the Shibuya Scramble Crossing, the world's busiest intersection, or immerse yourself in the dazzling neon-lit entertainment and shopping district of Shinjuku. For unparalleled vistas, ascend the towering Tokyo Skytree for a panoramic view of the entire Kanto region, or visit the sleek Shibuya Sky observation deck for a thrilling perspective of the cityscape below (charges apply).

Overnight: Royal Caribbean's Spectrum of the Seas

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Docked: 07:00 - 17:00

Shimizu is one of Japan's most picturesque coastal cities, globally renowned for offering stunning, frame-worthy views of the iconic Mount Fuji from its serene location on Suruga Bay. The most popular highlight is the nearby Nihondaira Plateau, accessible via a scenic ropeway ride (approximately $11 round trip), which provides a magnificent, panoramic vantage point overlooking the bay, the city, and, on clear days, a breathtaking perspective of Mount Fuji. At the plateau’s summit is the beautiful Kunozan Toshogu Shrine, the original mausoleum of the great Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu, featuring vibrantly decorated architecture that is designated as a National Treasure of Japan.

Another essential cultural experience is visiting Miho no Matsubara, a seven-kilometer coastline lined with picturesque pine trees that is recognised as a component of the Mount Fuji UNESCO World Heritage site, offering a classic Japanese view that has inspired artists for centuries. For those who prefer to stay close to the water, the lively S-Pulse Dream Plaza is a popular waterfront complex featuring shopping, a Ferris wheel with great views, and the unique Shimizu Sushi Museum and surrounding Sushi Alley, where you can taste the region’s famous, super-fresh tuna.

Overnight: Royal Caribbean's Spectrum of the Seas

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Docked: 11:00 - 23:00

Osaka, often called Japan's "kitchen," is a chaotic, colourful, and famously friendly metropolis, providing an essential dive into the country's exuberant food culture, history, and modern entertainment. A perfect day blends feasting on local specialties like takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki with sightseeing. The undisputed centrepiece of any visit is the dazzling Dotonbori district, a vibrant, canal-side hub known for its massive, illuminated signage - including the iconic Glico Running Man - fantastic street food stalls, and the famous Shinsaibashi-suji shopping arcade.

Easily accessible from the bay area is the towering Osaka Castle, a magnificent reconstruction of one of Japan’s most significant fortifications; visitors can explore its modern museum interior and climb to the top for panoramic city views, all set within a beautiful park that is particularly spectacular during the cherry blossom season. For a taste of old Osaka, the retro Shinsekai district, with its nostalgic feel and the landmark Tsutenkaku Tower, offers a glimpse into the city's past and is the perfect place to try kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers).

Overnight: Royal Caribbean's Spectrum of the Seas

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Enjoy a day at leisure while cruising onboard the Spectrum of the Seas.

Overnight: Royal Caribbean's Spectrum of the Seas

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Enjoy a day at leisure while cruising onboard the Spectrum of the Seas.

Overnight: Royal Caribbean's Spectrum of the Seas

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Arrives at 07:00

Arrive back at the Port of Baoshan and make your own way to the airport for your return flight home.

Please note:
• Some travellers may be required to depart a day later so additional accommodation and transfers will be provided free of charge. This will not apply to passengers departing before 02:00 the following day.
• Perth and Brisbane travellers may arrive back in Australia on the same day (Day 17).

Meals included: Breakfast; In-Flight

Please note: Some travellers may arrive back into Australia +1 day (Day 19) or very late on Day 17.