CME Cruise Conference

Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan - Tokyo is a city that's unlike any other. For a first-time visitor, arriving in Japan's capital is an almost otherworldly experience. From a western point of view, there are few places on earth that are quite this foreign. The land of the rising sun is known for maintaining a wonderful balance of modernity and tradition, and nowhere is this harmonious contrast more apparent than in Tokyo. Japan's most populous city is made up of several districts that each have their own unique atmosphere, not dissimilar to New York City's boroughs. From the serene and traditional Ueno to the super-chic shopping districts of Harajuku and Aoyama to the pop culture and technology mecca of Akihabara, Tokyo really does have something for everyone. Be sure to take advantage of the city's supremely efficient public transportation system; no need to limit your time in Tokyo to a single district when the Metro allows you to travel between them with ease. But no matter where you are in the city, there are a few things that can always be found within walking distance: outstanding food, fascinating architecture, and exceedingly polite locals. To truly take in the scale of Tokyo, view this sprawling cityscape from above. While many tourists visit Tokyo Skytree or Tokyo Tower for a chance to see the skyline, more shrewd travelers tend to favor the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building's Observatory. Of course, a stay at the Ritz-Carlton also offers a spectacular view from the privacy of your room.

Shimizu (Mt. Fuji), Japan - On clear days, particularly in winter, Mount Fuji (Fuji-san in Japanese) is visible from as far as Tokyo, 60 miles away. When Japan's highest mountain is capped with snow, it’s a picture-postcard perfect volcanic cone. One of the best-known symbols of Japan, this iconic mountain has been considered sacred since ancient times and was even forbidden to women until the early 1900s.

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Osaka, Japan - Burned and rebuilt time and again, the grandiose Osaka Castle is lasting testament to Japanese determination and distinctive pitched-roof design. In nearby Kyoto, ingenuity reigns in the careful construction of the "nightingale floors" in Nijo Castle, designed to squeak a warning of intruders long before the guards could make out their sihouettes in the dark.

Hiroshima, Japan - Hiroshima is now defined as a beacon of peace and prides itself on its exceptional natural beauty. See more than 300 cherry blossom trees in bloom at Peace Memorial Park, journey to the breathtaking Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island, and take time to sample "okonomiyaki"—a delicious example of Japanese soul food.

Busan (Pusan), South Korea - Find stillness at some of the largest Korean Buddhist temples, including Beomeo-sa, first constructed in the year 678 and home to over one thousand monks-it also contains seven different registered national and cultural treasures. Near the port, explore the famous Jagalchi fish market or the city's renowned beach resorts. Journey to the Dongnae area to soak in the city's healing hot springs.

Hakodate, Japan - Hakodate is perhaps the most underrated Japanese city between the trio of Nagasaki, Hiroshima, and Yokohama, but that’s a good thing. Exploring here is laid back, and the city teems with great views and international influence. The overlook from Mount Hakodate and the area’s fresh seafood in particular are certainly worth your while! Explore the Western-style forts of Motomachi, which is surrounded by 19th century-influenced architecture. They’re a symbol of the port’s openness during a time when Japan isolated itself from international trade. Take a romantic stroll at night while the trees glitter with string lights. No matter what you choose, there’s plenty to do in Hakodate, whether that’s savoring a traditional tea ceremony or seeing the cherry blossoms at Fort Goryokaku.

Aomori, Japan - Aomori, a prefecture in the northern part of Japan’s main island of Honshu, is known for natural landscapes including volcanic mountain ranges. Towada-Hachimantai National Park, near the southern border, has hot springs, autumn foliage in Oirase Gorge, skiing at Mount Hakkōda and lava domes around Lake Towada. Aomori, the capital, is a laid-back port that hosts the Nebuta summer festival.