Kyoto, Fukuoka & Sasebo Cruise 11 Nights • Hong Kong, China • Spectrum of the Seas

A vibrant, buzzing metropolis filled with history, culture and futuristic feats, Hong Kong is unlike any other city in the world. Tradition and innovation exist side by side here. You’ll see it in the city’s dazzling skyline, stately dragon boats, abundance of museums and acclaimed food scene. Before your cruise from Hong Kong, pay a visit to the massive Tian Tan Buddha, which towers at over 112 feet tall. Savor delicious noodles and other tempting bites at the Temple Street Night Market or set sail on a harbor cruise for unbeatable views of Hong Kong’s iconic skyline. If you have an extra day, pop over to the island of Macau for a unique mix of Chinese and Portuguese heritage. However you choose to spend your days in this eclectic city, you’ll find the hardest part about visiting Hong Kong is trying to see all of it in the time you have.

Your ship departs promptly at 4:00 pm, so plan to arrive at least 2-3 hours early to account for checking in and boarding protocols. During this time, many of the ship's amenities are open and operating, so feel free to start your vacation early.

Fukuoka is a historic port city where cultural imports from the Asian mainland were introduced to Japan. Explore Japan's first Zen Buddhist temple at Shofukuji. Then, see the ruins of Fukuoka Castle amid the dazzling cherry blossoms of Maizuru Park. Or hit the sands at Momochi Seaside Park, a long artificial beach along the waterfront, with modern skyscrapers towering behind you and forest-covered mountains in the distance.

Sweeping seascapes, mountain vistas and ancient shrines await in Sakaiminato. Drive out to the striking samurai fortress of Matsue Castle and the Shinto sanctuary of Izumo Taisha less than an hour down the road — legend has it the gods come together for a meeting here once a year. Then, relax in the hot springs at Kaike Onsen. Or spend your day hiking among the lush forest and volcanic peaks of Daisen Oki National Park.

After docking in Maizuru, make your way to the Goro Sky Tower for sweeping views of the green Japanese countryside joining the blue ocean — these are some of the best vistas in all Japan. Stop in nearby Amanohashidate to see Naraiji temple and its statue of Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy. Head further inland to see the opulent, stunning temples of Kyoto, including iconic Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine.

In the Nagamachi district, follow the footsteps of the samurai of the past to the reconstructed Kanazawa Castle, then move onwards to Kenroku Garden, a pristine example of Japanese landscaping. Leap into modern times at the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, where the circular architecture encourages you to approach art from all directions. And be sure not to miss the quaint teahouses of the Higashi Chaya district!

Take a boat tour to the Kujukushima Islands, 208 emerald-green islands dotted along the coast, famous for their jagged shores. From the observatory decks on Mt. Ishidake or Mt. Hiyamizudake, enjoy panoramic views of the islands, mountains and bay. Then, explore the unique Huis Ten Bosch Theme Park, or stop in at the Kujukushima Aquarium to learn how to harvest pearls.

Although it's officially part of China, Hong Kong is a world unto itself. This bustling city is full of ancient and modern architecture, lots of people and — of course — the best dim sum around. Head to the Kowloon Peninsula for Golden Mile shopping along Nathan Road. Then, make your way to Hong Kong Island to admire the views from the top of Victoria Peak — you can see the skyscrapers of the financial district as well as the fishing village of Stanley Harbour. Cruise to Hong Kong and trek out to mountainous Lantau Island to see the famous Tian Tan Buddha, standing a full 112 feet tall. Or score some quiet time at Hong Kong Park, full of contemplative rock gardens and tree-lined paths.

The cruise might have ended, but there are still some great activities to enjoy in the area. If you flew into this port, be mindful of your departure flight time and plan accordingly.