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.

At Sea - Cruising - Cruising

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.

Kumamoto, Japan - A charming port that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity. Nestled on the island of Kyushu, this city invites cruise guests to immerse themselves in the rich Japanese culture. Explore the iconic Kumamoto Castle, a historic fortress surrounded by cherry blossoms in spring. As you wander through the streets, experience the local charm and indulge in Kumamoto's distinguished cuisine. The city's vibrant atmosphere, highlighted by lively markets and traditional tea houses, offers a warm embrace to visitors.

Nagasaki, Japan - City of melancholy memories, Nagasaki offers the chance to visit Glover House, where Puccini's Madame Butterfly reputedly awaited her errant Lieutenant Pinkerton. The city's focal point is surely Peace Memorial Park, honoring lives lost to World War II's second atomic bomb.