Tokyo is one of the most famous of Asia’s metropolises and deservedly so. With a mixture of both ancient traditions and modern architecture, the city makes for an unforgettable experience and is a must see for any kind of traveller. With so much going on it’s hard to pick what to do but you should definitely pay a visit to the Tsukiji outdoor market. Here you’ll find an unparalleled selection of the freshest seafood. Another highlight for many cruise passengers is the Imperial Palace. There are several guided tours in English making for a great shore excursion.

Overnight

The Japanese ability to mix a fast-paced world with a world of tranquility and refined ceremonies can be seen to its full effect in Osaka. Enjoy the hustle and bustle of Japan’s third-largest city before taking part in a traditional tea ceremony.

In Hiroshima, due to the Second World War, the are many war monuments and memorials such as the Peace Park, the Peace Tower, and a peace museum. The original Hiroshima Castle (called Carp Castle),was destroyed in 1945 by the atomic bombing. However, it was reconstructed in the 50's and now houses a museum of the history of Hiroshima before World War II.

With its beautiful scenery - hotsprings, mountains in the background and sea at the front, Beppu attracts many tourists each year. Visit the Takasakiyama Monkey Park, or the Otobaru Waterfall. For the more adventurous, there is the Wonder Rakutenchi amusement park as well as the Firework Festival which takes place in late July.

The Japanese seaside city of Kagoshima lies in a bay on the southwestern tip of the island. The city is sunny and friendly, it has even been voted Japan's friendliest. The very active Sakurajima volcano that sits across the bay is one of the city's main attractions. The local weather report has a special section for an 'ash forecast' as it falls regularly, coating everything, including cars, laundry and teeth. Kagoshima is often nicknamed 'Naples of the Eastern World' for its volcano and tropical climate.

The city of Nawa is located on the southern part of the Okinawa island and is the capital of the Okinawa perfecture in Japan. It has always been regarded as one of the most important cities in the prefecture and offers some great sights such as the Shuri Castle, the Shikinaen Garden and the Tamaudum Mausoleum.