Far Eastern Horizons
Zojoji Temple, Tokyo Japan
15 Days | 9 Guided Tours | 2 Countries | Hongkong, China to Tokyo, Japan
Experience a side of Asia that goes beyond the expected, where bustling markets, historic cities, and local perspectives come together to create a journey filled with culture, contrast, and unforgettable experiences.
Unravel the mysteries of one of the most captivating corners of Asia. Browse the lively stalls at Hong Kong’s renowned Stanley Market. Gain a deeper understanding of Taiwan through the perspective of a local guide. In Japan, hear firsthand accounts of World War II from residents of Nagasaki and Hiroshima. Uncover the vibrant contrasts of Shimizu and Tokyo, experience the hot springs of Beppu and delve into the fascinating past of Imperial Japan in Osaka.
Itinerary
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Discover a dazzling metropolis where Eastern traditions meet Western sensibilities.
Embark your ship and settle into your stateroom in Hong Kong, a city defined by its dramatic skyline and deep-rooted history. Ascend Victoria Peak for sweeping views of the skyscraper-laden cityscape and bustling Victoria Harbour, or visit Aberdeen to see modern high-rises towering over traditional floating villages.
On Day 2, take in the energy of Victoria Harbour, where historic junks and the iconic Star Ferry weave through the water. By night, the harbor comes alive with a spectacular, synchronized light show that illuminates the entire skyline against the dark silhouette of the mountains.
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Relax on board as you cruise a historic maritime highway connecting East Asia.
Savor a day at sea as you travel the vital trade routes of the East China Sea. This is the perfect opportunity to experience the ship’s diverse dining options. Enjoy a variety of international flavors at the World Café, casual al fresco dining on the Aquavit Terrace, or regional specialties in The Restaurant as you cruise toward your next destination.
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Explore a high-tech metropolis where modern ambition meets deep cultural roots.
Dock in Keelung, the gateway to Taipei—a dynamic city that balances cutting-edge technology with centuries of Chinese, Japanese, and Western influences. Visit the monumental Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, an ornate landmark overlooking Liberty Square that honors the leader who shaped the island's modern history. Then, look skyward to admire Taipei 101, the brilliant engineering marvel that stood as the world's tallest skyscraper from 2004 to 2009 and remains the ultimate symbol of the city's rapid development.
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Follow the historic trade routes of merchants and explorers as you relax at sea.
Spend the day sailing waters once navigated by centuries of Chinese and Japanese traders, and later by 19th-century Western explorers heading for Shanghai. Use this peaceful day at sea to enjoy the ship’s premium amenities. Take a brisk, refreshing walk around the Promenade Deck, enjoy a workout in the well-equipped Fitness Center, or simply unwind as you glide toward Japan.
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Witness a profound story of resilience and cross-cultural heritage.
Nagasaki is a rare Japanese city where East and West harmoniously intermingle. Explore the historic Dejima district, a preserved artificial island that served as the nation's sole gateway for Dutch and Portuguese traders during Japan's centuries of isolation. You can also visit the moving Nagasaki Peace Park. Established near the epicenter of the devastating August 9, 1945 atomic blast, its tranquil grounds and international sculpture garden stand as a powerful global monument to world harmony and peace.
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Take in the scenic wonders of a vibrant bay city profoundly shaped by history and a mighty volcano.
Nicknamed the "Naples of the Eastern World," Kagoshima mirrors the famous Italian destination with its warm climate, palm-lined avenues, and the majestic Sakurajima volcano looming beautifully across the bay. Beyond its stunning geography, Kagoshima holds a monumental place in Japan's modernization. During the Edo period, seventeen young men bravely broke strict travel bans to study in the West. They returned with revolutionary science and technological concepts that ignited the country's Industrial Revolution right from Kagoshima's doorsteps.
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Immerse yourself in a soothing geothermal wonderland of ancient wellness traditions.
Nestled on the island of Kyushu between a dramatic mountain range and Beppu Bay, this city is world-renowned for its hot springs, or onsen. Powered by eight distinct geothermal hotspots, Beppu boasts the second-largest volume of thermal water on Earth. For centuries, visitors have drawn on these mineral-rich waters for their therapeutic and curative benefits. Step outside the city center to marvel at a surreal landscape of steaming fissures and boiling, multi-colored mud pools that make this destination a true marvel of nature.
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Witness an inspiring journey of rebirth, from an ancient castle town to a global symbol of peace.
Explore Hiroshima, a modern and forward-looking city that has risen gracefully from its tragic past. Spend time at the moving Peace Memorial Park, where the iconic, hollowed Genbaku (Atomic Bomb) Dome stands as a powerful testament to the events of August 6, 1945, and a universal cry for world peace.
On Day 10, delve deeper into Hiroshima's rich feudal history as a traditional castle town. Visit the majestic Hiroshima Castle, originally built in 1589 on the river delta by warlord Mōri Terumoto. Though destroyed in World War II, the fortress was meticulously reconstructed in 1958. Today, its grand main keep and peaceful moat house an exceptional museum detailing the samurai heritage that defined the region for centuries.
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Indulge your senses in Japan's culinary capital, a vibrant hub of commerce and ancient spirituality.
Located at the mouth of the Yodo River, Osaka is a dynamic metropolis second in size only to Tokyo. Historically driven by a booming mercantile economy, it earned the title of "the nation’s kitchen" during the Edo period for its pivotal role in the rice trade—a legacy that translates today into a legendary street food and dining scene. Beyond its modern neon lights, Osaka holds deep spiritual roots as home to some of Japan’s oldest Shinto sites, including the majestic Sumiyoshi Grand Shrine, the grand flagship of 2,000 shrines dedicated to protecting sailors and bringing prosperity.
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Gaze upon the iconic peak of Mt. Fuji from a historic harbor steeped in shogun history.
Set beautifully along Suruga Bay, Shimizu is a scenic port city watched over by the majestic silhouette of Mt. Fuji. A thriving maritime hub since the Edo period, its modern economy flourishes on a robust fishing industry and the export of premium green tea cultivated in the surrounding hills. Just beyond the city, travel into the coastal hills to visit Kunōzan Tōshō-gū. As Japan’s oldest Tōshō-gū shrine, this flamboyantly designed Shinto masterpiece serves as the original burial place of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the legendary leader who unified Japan after generations of civil war.
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Delve deeper into Shimizu's vibrant maritime legacy, where historic trade meets modern waterfront charm.
Discover more of Shimizu, a port that surged in prominence after Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu retired to nearby Sumpu Castle in 1605. While famous for its 20th-century green tea trade, today’s bustling waterfront offers a delightful mix of past and present. Stroll through a modern bayside shopping complex complete with lively eateries and a Ferris wheel, or venture to the bustling Kashi-no-Ichi Market to see local vendors showcasing the freshest catches of the day straight from the Pacific.
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Conclude your extraordinary journey in a spellbinding mega-city where neon-lit futures meet ancient traditions.
Tokyo offers a mesmerizing contrast of soaring skyscrapers, meditative Zen gardens, and tranquil Shinto shrines. Originally a modest fishing village known as Edo, the city flourished under the rule of shoguns and emperors to become one of the largest metropolises on Earth. Experience this unique duality firsthand by exploring the historic Asakusa Kannon Temple, Tokyo's oldest Buddhist site, before diving into the ultra-modern, high-end retail paradise of the Ginza district—all while the distant, snow-capped cone of Mt. Fuji stands watch over the horizon.
On Day 15, bid a fond farewell to your fellow travelers and the crew as you prepare for your journey home. If you are not ready for your adventure to end, choose to extend your stay to further uncover the endless wonders of Japan's captivating capital.
Note itinerary available in reverse.
Save $2,500 per couple based on The Viking Savings Events available until 30 Jun 2026.
From AU$15,045 per person share twin Veranda Stateroom or a Deluxe Veranda from AU$15,545 per person share twin based on departure from Tokyo 27 September 2027.
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One complimentary shore excursion in every port of call
Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)
All onboard meals, featuring regional specialties & always available classics
Beer, wine & soft drinks with onboard lunch & dinner
24-hour specialty coffees, teas & bottled water
Port taxes & fees
Ground transfers with Viking Air purchase
Visits to UNESCO Sites
Enrichment lectures & Destination Performances
Complimentary access to The Nordic Spa & Fitness Center.
Self-service launderettes
Alternative restaurant dining at no extra charge
24-hour room service
Onboard gratuities
Your Stateroom Includes
King-size Viking Explorer Bed with luxury linen
42" flat-screen LCD TV with intuitive remote & complimentary Movies On Demand
Large private bathroom with spacious glass-enclosed shower, heated floor, anti-fog mirror & hair dryer
Premium Freyja® toiletries
Direct-dial satellite phone & cell service
Security safe
110/220 volt outlets
Ample USB ports
Sea Hell Hot Spring Trees, Beppu Japan
*Prices are per person in Australian dollars & discount has already been calculated into price shown. They are based on double occupancy, subject to availability and correct at the time of publication, 18 May 2026. All offers are subject to availability and valid only for new bookings only on selected departures. Viking reserves the right to correct errors or omissions and to change any and all fares, fees and surcharges at any time. Travel agent service & credit card fees may apply. Contact your Wanderlust Travel Expert for full details.
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