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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.

Kobe, Japan - Perched on a hillside overlooking the sea, Kobe is one of Japan's most attractive and cosmopolitan cities. Home of the heralded Kobe beef, this small city is easily navigated. Visit the Hatsukura Sake Brewery Museum for a tour or dine in one of the area's incredible restaurants.

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.

At Sea - Cruising - Cruising

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.

Shanghai, China - Once a quaint fishing village, Shanghai has netted over 11 million people. Join the masses for morning tai chi on The Bund, or stroll through the Yu Yuan Gardens, inspiration for the famous " willow pattern" chinaware.

Okinawa, Japan - This ancient kingdom boasts crystal blue waters, tropical plants, and many fascinating creatures. Browse the shops on Kokusai Street and see Shuri Castle with its Tombs of Kings of Ryukyu. Then, watch for the rare Yambaru-kuina bird in Yambaru and explore the beautiful limestone of Gyokusen-do Cave.

Taipei (Keelung), Taiwan - This culturally diverse and commercially influential city has been shaped by its fierce sense of independence vying with undeniable ties to mainland China. The result is a fascinating blend of culture, art, history and social diversity.  As you explore through the city on your Taipei cruise, you’ll fall in love with the futuristic cityscape and dazzling arcitecture. Dotted with tranquil parks and green spaces, you’ll find locals practicing the art of Tai Chi.

Cuisine plays a central role in Taiwanese culture with culinary traditions from regions throughout China, including Fujian, Shanghai, Sichuan, and Hunan found around the city. Be sure to visit a relaxing tea house, or sample some famous Taiwanese snacks at a lively night market.

Browse high-end boutiques in the Zhongxiao-Dunhao area and explore the dozens of fashionable malls in Xinyi District for keepsakes and souvenirs.

Hong Kong, China -  From Victoria Peak, the Hong Kong metropolis is all primary colors and neon, commerce and capitalism. Yet just beyond the highrises are the Fragrant Harbour, Stanley Market, and mainland old China, complete with rice paddies and coolie hats.