Day 1: Beijing, China
Arrive in Beijing and check into your hotel. With a history spanning over 3,000 years, Beijing was once a grand imperial capital and now serves as China’s political and cultural heart. Iconic landmarks such as the Forbidden City and the Great Wall reflect its imperial past, while the maze-like *hutongs* offer a glimpse into traditional local life. Enjoy the evening at your leisure.
Day 2: Xi’an, China
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Xi’an, a city that once served as China’s capital through 12 imperial dynasties. At the end of the Silk Road, Xi’an flourished as one of the world’s largest and richest cities. Highlights include its impressive city wall and the discovery site of the famed Terra Cotta Warriors. Spend the evening relaxing at your hotel.
Day 3: Xi’an, China
Uncover Xi’an’s cultural richness at the Shaanxi History Museum, home to more than 370,000 artefacts. Visit the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, a revered Buddhist landmark, and the Great Mosque, a unique blend of Islamic and Chinese architectural styles.
Day 4: Lhasa, Tibet
Fly to Lhasa, Tibet’s spiritual capital, nestled high on the Tibetan Plateau. Surrounded by the dramatic peaks of the Himalayas and tranquil alpine lakes such as Yamdrok and Namtso, Lhasa offers both spiritual serenity and natural beauty. Evening at leisure.
Day 5: Lhasa, Tibet
Visit Jokhang Temple, Tibet’s most sacred religious site and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the 7th century, it houses the revered statue of Jowo Shakyamuni and showcases a fusion of Tibetan, Nepalese and Indian design.
Day 6: Lhasa, Tibet
Explore the magnificent Potala Palace, an iconic symbol of Tibetan Buddhism and former winter residence of the Dalai Lama. Perched on Red Hill, this UNESCO-listed masterpiece is an extraordinary example of Tibetan and Han Chinese architecture.
Day 7: Chengdu, China
Fly to Chengdu, the lively capital of Sichuan Province. With a history stretching back over 2,000 years, the city is known for its ancient silk trade, the invention of paper money, and its laid-back teahouse culture. Evening free to unwind.
Day 8: Beijing (Tianjin), China
Fly to Tianjin, a bustling port city that serves as the maritime gateway to Beijing. Strategically located along the Grand Canal, it has a rich history as a global trading hub. Savour local specialities like the “Eight Great Bowls” before boarding your ship and settling into your stateroom.
Day 9: Dalian, China
Dalian is known for its scenic coastline, green spaces and relaxed atmosphere. Its strategic position has drawn foreign powers over the years, leaving behind an intriguing architectural legacy from Russian, British and Japanese influences.
Day 10: Qingdao, China
Famed for its crisp sea air and German colonial architecture, Qingdao is a coastal gem with a fascinating past. Explore the Ba Da Guan district and enjoy the local beer culture, a legacy of its time under German rule.
Day 11: Yellow Sea (At Sea)
Sail across the historic Yellow Sea, once the battleground of the Russo-Japanese War. Take advantage of the ship’s amenities—perhaps a walk around the Promenade Deck or a workout in the Fitness Centre.
Day 12: Shanghai, China
China’s largest city, Shanghai is a modern metropolis with a rich cultural heritage. Discover the colonial-era buildings along the Bund, stroll through the historic old quarter, or admire ancient art at the Shanghai Museum.
Day 13: East China Sea (At Sea)
Cruise the East China Sea, an important route for regional trade and cultural exchange. On board, enjoy exquisite cuisine—from Norwegian dishes at Mamsen’s to Italian classics at Manfredi’s.
Day 14: Jeju, South Korea
Jeju Island, with its mild climate and natural wonders, is a favourite holiday spot. Visit volcanic beaches, waterfalls, and meet the legendary *haenyeo*—female divers who harvest seafood using traditional free-diving methods.
Day 15: Korea Strait (At Sea)
Cross the Korea Strait, once a pathway for Buddhism’s spread to Japan and now a major maritime trade route. Unwind with a good book in the ship’s Library or enjoy a swim beneath the retractable roof at the Main Pool.
Day 16: Hiroshima, Japan
Explore Hiroshima’s rich history, including the rebuilt Hiroshima Castle, originally constructed in the late 1500s. Today it houses a museum showcasing the city’s samurai and cultural legacy.
Day 17: Miyazaki, Japan
Located on Kyushu’s sun-soaked coast, Miyazaki is steeped in myth and history. Near the spectacular Takachiho Gorge lies the setting of ancient legends of Japan’s creation. The region is also known for its world-class Wagyu beef.
Day 18: Kochi, Japan
Visit Kochi, where nature and history coexist beautifully. Tour Kochi Castle, one of Japan’s few original castles, and explore the dramatic coastline of Muroto Geopark. Try the local dish *katsuo tataki*—lightly seared bonito fish.
Day 19: Osaka, Japan
Set at the mouth of the Yodo River, Osaka flourished as a merchant hub and became known as “the nation’s kitchen.” Visit historical landmarks like the Sumiyoshi Grand Shrine, dedicated to the deities of prosperity and seafaring.
Day 20: Osaka, Japan
Experience Osaka’s dynamic street food culture. From *takoyaki* (octopus balls) to *okonomiyaki* (a savoury pancake with a variety of fillings), the city lives up to its reputation for indulgent eating—aptly described by the word *kuidaore*.
Day 21: Shimizu, Japan
Shimizu, located on Suruga Bay, offers magnificent views of Mt. Fuji and a deep-rooted tea culture. Visit Kunōzan Tōshō-gū, Japan’s oldest Shinto shrine, built in honour of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the shogun who unified Japan.
Day 22: Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan
Disembark in Yokohama and bid farewell to fellow travellers. You may wish to extend your stay to explore more of Tokyo’s vibrant blend of tradition and modernity.
