9-Day Asia From Tokyo (Yokohama) to Seoul: Kobe, Kochi, Jeju & Nagoya

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Itinerary

1. 1
   Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan

   Once a sleepy fishing village, Yokohama is now one of Japan’s largest ports and your gateway to Tokyo. Ancient traditions and historic sites blend into modern culture, crafting a city unlike anywhere else. In Tokyo, you can walk among both neon-glowing skyscrapers and regal temples. Browse stores showcasing the latest advances in technology or retreat to one of the tranquil gardens surrounding the Imperial Palace. Savor traditional cuisine at a Michelin-starred restaurant and witness the centuries-old sport of sumo wrestling. This cosmopolitan hub offers a vast selection of attractions and activities and a wealth of culturally and historic sites. Whether this is your first or fifth visit to the city, Tokyo will captivate your imagination.
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   Mount Fuji (Shimizu), Japan

   In the shadow of Mount Fuji, Shimizu is one of the most beautiful ports in Japan. Walk through the pine groves of Miho, home to a 650-year-old Japanese black pine, or enjoy spectacular views of Mount Fuji from the lush, forested hill of Nihondaira. Take in the seascapes on a bay cruise, or learn of undersea delights at Japan’s first sushi museum, and get a glimpse at feudal life in Japan in 200 BC at the archaeological site of Toro. Shop for traditional Japanese wooden handcrafts and fabrics unique to the region, and sample some yokan, a sweet jellied confection.
3. 3
   Nagoya, Japan

   Japan’s fourth largest city by population, Nagoya, is a center of modern commerce, with Toyota, Noritake china and a Legoland theme park calling this capital home. Tour the Toyota Exhibit Hall, experience Noritake Gardens and sit amongst the stars in the planetarium at the Science Museum. Nagoya Castle, deemed a National Treasure, is a must-see, as is exploring their entertainment district, Sakae. This busy hub is where you’ll find Nagoya TV Tower, the city’s symbol, and Oasis 21, a multi-level public park with a futuristic water theme.
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   Kyoto (Kobe), Japan

   The compact city of Kōbe is ideally situated between the mountains and the sea. It only takes a short time in this walker’s paradise to see why Kōbe is considered one of Japan’s most beautiful cities. Where else can you find natural waterfalls (Nunobiki Falls) in an urban setting that have inspired artists for centuries? Historic sites and museums intertwine with immaculate parks and vibrant culinary, arts and jazz music scenes. Come savor a day in this unique cosmopolitan city with Norwegian.
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   Kyoto (Kobe), Japan

   The compact city of Kōbe is ideally situated between the mountains and the sea. It only takes a short time in this walker’s paradise to see why Kōbe is considered one of Japan’s most beautiful cities. Where else can you find natural waterfalls (Nunobiki Falls) in an urban setting that have inspired artists for centuries? Historic sites and museums intertwine with immaculate parks and vibrant culinary, arts and jazz music scenes. Come savor a day in this unique cosmopolitan city with Norwegian.
6. 6
   Osaka (Wakayama), Japan

   Considered one of Japan’s most cosmopolitan cities, Osaka’s laid-back atmosphere coupled with its vibrant nightlife and famous food culture make it a must-see for travelers to the region. From stalls selling famous street food dishes to elegant Michelin-starred restaurants, foodies will delight in the abundance of unique and delicious cuisine. Centuries-old shrines and temples provide islands of tranquility among the bustling cityscape. And to dive into the region’s dramatic past and culture, visit the unique Osaka Museum of Housing and Living, the National Museum of Art or one of the other museums.
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   Kagoshima, Japan

   Visit the exquisite Iso-Teien Garden and its villa, built in 1660, and enjoy gorgeous views before a short ferry ride to smoking Sakurajima for a close-up view of the volcano and its lava fields. Or journey into the countryside to Chiran and its well-preserved streets lined with samurai homes. Enjoy the beautiful landscape of Lake Ikeda and the stunning vistas of the Satsuma Peninsula. Local Satsuma dolls, unique cards printed with ink made from volcanic ash, and unusual wooden toys make interesting souvenirs. And be sure to try some miso soup, sashimi or ramen, the area’s famous noodles.
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   Nagasaki, Japan

   Nagasaki is often equated with the dropping of the atomic bomb, and there are many moving museums, memorials and monuments dedicated to its World War II history that shouldn’t be missed. Yet modern Nagasaki offers a vibrant and charming atmosphere that’s waiting to be explored. Among its cobblestone and rolling hills, the city boasts a rich culinary scene that will excite your inner foodie. To capture Nagasaki’s scenic beauty, consider a cable car ride or harbor tour. Centuries-old shrines, temples and churches dot the landscape and are a must see.
9. 9
   Jeju, South Korea

   The dormant volcano Hallasan formed many of the natural attractions found on Jeju. As South Korea’s tallest mountain, Hallasan offers an abundance of hiking opportunities and is an UNESCO Biosphere Reserve showcasing a crater lake and an abundance of plants and wildlife. The Manjang Cave, formed by cooling lava, is the world’s longest lava tube and is partially open for tours. Head from the mountain to the magnificent beaches and watch famed haenyo (powerful sea-women) dive for octopus, abalone, clams and more without the aid of a breathing apparatus. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample fresh seafood dishes at a local restaurant.
10. 10
    Seoul (Incheon), South Korea

    Travel to Seoul and discover its 5,000-year-old heritage amidst the ultra-modern high-rises. Visit the magnificent 14th century Gyeongbok Palace and stone pagoda, the National Museum and the bustling antique district. Or spend a day in the serene atmosphere of a Zen Buddhist temple and a historic Korean village. Tour the DMZ and rediscover the drama of recent history. Or simply wander the fish market and promenade at Incheon.