Explorer, 61 Nights Grand Asia Escape ex Hong Kong to Tokyo

Seven Seas Explorer® took luxury cruising to the next level, from the palatial Regent Suite to the hand-picked art accentuating her halls.

Manila, Philippines
The Philippine capital of Manila was founded by King Philip II of Spain. In the years that followed, the Spanish successfully prevented the Dutch, Portuguese and Chinese from settling in the Philippines. During the Seven Years' War the British occupied Manila, but agreed to return it to Spain in 1763. During WWII, the Japanese took control during a 1942 invasion, and eventually the U.S. recaptured the islands and returned them to the Philippines. In 1946, the country was granted full independence.

Coron (Palawan), Philippines
The karst limestone formations and sparkling waters of Coron, an island in the Calamian group of islands in northern Palawan, the Philippines, will linger in your mind long after you’ve departed this South China Sea paradise. Renowned as perhaps the Philippines most picturesque locale, it’s been the ancestral domain of the Tagbanwa people for over 20,000 years. A pair of lakes -- Kayangan and Barracuda – offer surreal photo opportunities, as do Banol Beach and Twin Lagoon. In quiet Coron Town a walk up Mt Tapyas will reward you with eye-popping views of crystal-clear Coron Bay.

Puerto Princesa, Philippines
Puerto Princesa is the capital of Palawan, Philippines, located 306 nautical miles southwest of Manila. It is said that the city was named after a mythical young woman, and Puerto Princesa certainly lives up to her legendary splendor with miles of pristine beaches and lush wilderness. Be sure to visit the underground river — the longest in the world deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Beachgoers should head to Honda Bay, consisting of several islets that are the best location for snorkeling and island hopping.

Jakarta, Indonesia
Jakarta is the capital and largest city of Indonesia, located on the northwest coast of Java. It is sprawling with shopping malls and traditional markets, and is known for its inexpensive, but fair quality textile and fashion products. Don’t miss the Istiqlal Mosque, the largest in Southeast Asia, and the National Monument in Merdeka Square. Visit the National Museum to learn more about the cultural heritage of Indonesia.

Semarang (Java), Indonesia
Semarang is a city on the north coast of the island of Java, Indonesia. A major port during the Dutch colonial era, the city is known in Indonesia for its large ethnically Chinese population. Today, Semarang is a commercial port and administrative capital of Central Java. More a business center than a city for tourists, it is, however, an excellent gateway to the mountainous interior of Central Java and only some 60 miles away from world-famous Borobudur.

Surabaya, Indonesia
From Buddhist temples to an historic Arab Quarter, the capital of Indonesia’s East Java province is known as a gateway city but you’ll find charms throughout its diverse neighborhoods. One of the most unusual is the House of Sampoerna, a well-preserved historical site built in the 19th-century Dutch colonial style that includes a museum, café and art gallery. You’ll spot the turquoise, dome-shaped roof of the remarkable Al Akbar Mosque Surabaya from anywhere in the city. Opened in 2000, the stylish masterpiece provides spectacular views from atop the freestanding, ottoman-style minaret. Dine on a variety of East Javanese dishes made from locally caught seafood.

Bali (Celukan Bawang), Indonesia
Explore the road-less-traveled charms of northern Bali from this busy port. In Bali Barat National Park, immerse yourself in brilliant coral reefs, mangrove forests and wildlife that includes over 160 different bird species. Gaze upon the stunning water temple of Pura Ulun Danu Batur on the shores of Lake Bratan. And in Singaraja, admire architectural remnants of the Dutch colonial period as well as the Royal Palace of Singaraja, which descendants of the last Raja of Buleleng still call home.

Bali (Benoa), Indonesia
Benoa’s charms are most evident in Nusa Dua, one of the most beautiful beaches in already-legendary Bali. In this land of rice terraces, spectacular volcanoes and over 20,000 temples, the main destination is the stunning 17th-century royal temple complex of Pura Taman Ayun in nearby Mengwi, surrounded by a lotus-filled moat, giving it the feel of a garden sanctuary. Another favorite is the Sunset Temple, Tanah Lot, and don’t miss the batik factories for that perfect gift or souvenir.

Komodo, Indonesia
Indonesia’s isolated Komodo Island is a natural wonder of tropical savanna and scrubland, home to the famed pre-historic Komodo dragon. Komodo National Park is the only place on earth that they can be found in the wild. The island of Komodo itself is about 60 squares miles in area with dramatic landscapes of 2,000 foot craggy mountains, canyons, Savannas and monsoon rain forests in the valleys. Human habitation is therefore limited to only one settlement in Slawi Bay.

Lombok (Lembar), Indonesia
Fulfill your wanderlust in a hidden gem island where tranquility meets natural wonders. Dive into the azure waters of Lembar Strait, home to vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. Sink your toes into the powdery sands of Selong Belanak Beach. Trek to the summit of Mount Rinjani, Indonesia's second-highest volcano, for awe-inspiring views and unforgettable sunrises. Learn about the island's culture at traditional Sasak villages like Sade and Ende, where artisans craft intricate textiles and pottery by hand. And save room to savor authentic Sasak cuisine, from spicy sambal dishes to succulent grilled seafood.

Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang), Malaysia
Spend the day discovering this cosmopolitan city and its many cultural levels, from the soaring Petronas Towers to a Royal Palace, Gothic churches, stolid Colonial remnants and a restored Malay timber house, once the residence of a local headman in a lovely Heritage Center. Browse in the markets and shops. Shop for crafts, excellent pewter, jewelry, batik. The fusion of cultures here offers a variety of menus from Malay and Chinese to continental cuisines. Try a curry or spicy broiled duck, a satay or broiled fish.

Penang, Malaysia
Pulau Pinang, as it is known locally, is the northern gateway to Malaysia and also the country's oldest British settlement. The word "Pinang" in Malay refers to the areca nut palm, which provides the betel nut, an essential ingredient in a delicacy chewed by millions in the Far East. Today Georgetown is noted for the largest collection of pre-war houses in all of Southeast Asia and the Penang Heritage Trust has been established to maintain its unique heritage.

Phuket, Thailand
With a land area of 215 square miles, Phuket Island is about the same size as Singapore, making it Thailand's largest island. Known as the "Pearl of Thailand," this beautiful retreat offers pristine beaches, lush vegetation, traditional villages, and seascapes of huge limestone pillars that tower over the turquoise waters of Phang-Nga Bay. Apart from tourism, much of the province's wealth derives from tin production, which started back in the 16th century.

Langkawi, Malaysia
Explore the relaxed charm of Langkawi with its farms, fishing villages and peaceful rice paddies. Langkawi boasts colorful myths and legends, dramatic mountains, and vast, pristine beaches. Begin with a visit to Eagle Square. Then soar to the height of eagles on the Langkawi cable car and admire the amazing views at Kereta Kabel. Look for beautifully handcrafted plates made from cinnamon trees. Discover the impact of rice agriculture in Malaysia with a visit to the Laman Padi Langkawi. Try seafood sizzlers made with coconut and chile paste or tea and chocolate treats in this romantic paradise.

Probolinggo, Indonesia
Situated on the north coast of East Java, Probolinggo is known by locals for its fish market but by travelers for its proximity to Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park, home of Indonesia's most spectacular volcano. The iconic Mount Bromo is reached via the mountain village of Cemoro Lawang; it culminates with a pony ride to the cliffs of the volcano’s six-mile-wide caldera. In Probolinggo, hop in a pedicab to see the city’s Chinese temple, go for a swim at Bentar Indah Beach and be sure to buy an authentic batik keepsake.

Singapore, Singapore
This island nation at the end of the Malaysian peninsula offers an extraordinary array of culture, history and cuisine. Embrace exotic sights and sounds strolling through Chinatown, the Arab Quarter or Little India. Head to the Boat Quay for unrivaled views of the harbor before dining at one of many international eateries. Shop along Orchard Road for treasures from every corner of the Pacific Rim; embark on a night safari at the Singapore Zoo or relax in the verdant shade of the Bukit Timah Nature Preserve. Wander the wondrously futuristic Gardens By the Bay before relaxing with a refreshing Singapore Sling at the iconic Raffles Hotel.

Ko Samui, Thailand
An isolated, self-sufficient community called ‘Coconut Island’ until tourists began arriving in the early 1990s, Ko Samui is today the second most popular island destination in Thailand (after Phuket). You’ll find a plethora of white-sand beaches, dazzling coral reefs and unspoiled rainforest dotted with waterfalls. At a picturesque plantation, learn how locals use monkeys to pick ripe coconuts from towering trees. See the Wat Phra Yai (Big Buddha Temple), a striking, 49-foot-tall gleaming gold statue that’s beautifully silhouetted against an azure sky and sea. Dine on simply prepared yet incredibly tasty cuisine with a cold, coconut cocktail, lost in Thailand’s bright-blue bliss.

Bangkok (Laem Chabang), Thailand
From the port city of Laem Chabang, discover the contrasting charms of Krung Thep (City of Angels) amongst the exotic temples, lavish palaces, teeming markets and urban skyline of Bangkok. Once a small trading center, Thailand’s capital city thrums equally on vendors selling legendary street food, graceful Thai architecture and saffron-robed monks. Ride a ubiquitous tuk-tuk to Wat Pho, home to an immense, reclining, gold-plated Buddha. See floating grocery stores and teakwood houses built on stilts on a boat tour along the Chao Phaya River. After shopping for Thai silk and jewelry, dine on classic Bangkok dishes like pad Thai, Khao mun gai and mango sticky rice.

Phu My (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam
Phu My is the gateway to Ho Chi Minh City, which is best explored on foot so that you can escape the bustle and find tranquil parks, peaceful pagodas and timeless alleyways. You may also cruise down one of the great rivers of the world, the Mekong. In Vietnam, the river divides itself into dozens of tributaries and becomes the Cuu Long (Nine Dragons) that fan out into a rich delta, covered with green rice paddies and orchards of coconuts, mangos, pineapples and bananas. On your river boat, head toward Thoi Son Island to taste the local fruits and honey tea.

Cam Ranh, Vietnam
A quieter town than its neighbor Nha Trang, Cam Ranh offers a landscape of white beaches, turquoise waters and lush forests. Those with an interest in history will have plenty to explore, as Cam Ranh has been a military stronghold for various world powers, including France, the Soviet Union and the United States. For a cultural experience, set off to tour peaceful temples and pagodas. Journey an hour north and you’ll be in the heart of Vietnam’s most popular seaside resort town.

Hanoi (Ha Long Bay), Vietnam
Vietnam’s capital city is a gateway to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Southeast Asia’s most stunning sights. Thousands of dolomite and limestone islets topped by forest rise dramatically from the bay’s waters, presenting a stirring tableau of grottoes, caves, rock arches and peaceful coves. Gain a phenomenal perspective of this one-of-a-kind land- and waterscape from the decks of a wooden junk, or perhaps kayak these celebrated waters. Experience Hanoi’s beguiling blend of French and Asian cultures in its Old Quarter and learn its history at the Vietnam Military History Museum, Temple of Literature and H? Chí Minh Museum.

Taipei (Keelung), Taiwan
From the booming seaport town of Keelung, head west to one of East Asia’s most intriguing cities. Mixing Chinese, Japanese and Western influences, Taipai features architectural landmarks like the nearly 1,700-foot-tall Taipei 101 – built to resemble a gigantic bamboo stalk – and cultural wonders like the 18th-century Longshan Temple and prestigious National Palace Museum. Among Taipei’s culinary delights are Taiwanese 'small eats' called xiaochi and the city’s famed beef noodle soup, best enjoyed with a cold Taiwan beer. Travel north from Keelung to Yeliu Geopark, a popular promontory full of eroded rock formations with names like Queen’s Head and Elephant Rock.

Ishigaki (Sakishima Islands), Japan
Packed with picture-perfect beaches that offer world-class diving, snorkeling and surfside bliss, Ishigaki is the gateway to the Yaeyama archipelago, the southernmost and westernmost inhabited islands of Japan. Admire the colorful fish and flourishing coral reefs of Kabira Bay aboard a glass-bottom boat before enjoying panoramic island views from the Tamatorizaki observatory or Hirakubozaki Lighthouse. The islands of Taketomi, Kuroshima and Kohama make for fantastic day-trip destinations, all of which can be explored by bicycle within a few hours. Listen to folk songs accompanied by the sanshin, a banjo-like instrument made of snakeskin, and see artisans crafting styles of pottery that are unique to each island.

Hirara (Miyakojima), Japan
Hirara is a tropical paradise on the idyllic Miyako Island in Okinawa Prefecture. Relax on the powder-white beaches and cobalt-blue waters of Yonaha and Sunayama beaches. Explore remarkable cultural landmarks such as the Miyako Shrine and enjoy breathtaking views from the iconic Irabu Bridge. Stroll through the multicolored assortment of flowers and foliage in the Hirara Tropical Botanical Garden. Experience the relaxed island lifestyle, savor Okinawan cuisine and soak up the sun in this enchanting destination.

Shanghai, China
Shining brightly on the banks of the Yangtze River Delta in East China, this historic and glamorous city beckons with dazzling architecture, a universe of dining options and buzzing streetscapes. Stroll Shanghai legendary waterfront – known locally as ‘The Bund’ – for skyline views and colonial-era buildings. Pay homage to the famed pair of Buddhas at the Jade Buddha Temple in bustling downtown, learn the city’s fascinating story at the Shanghai History Museum in the Pudong district and head to the Old City to explore the 400-year-old Yuyuan Garden. You’ll be tempted by Shanghai’s fabled street food wherever you go, from crab shell pies to paper-thin soup dumplings.

Kagoshima, Japan
Kagoshima is Japan’s southernmost major city, and is nicknamed the “Naples of the Eastern World,” based on its caldera bay location, hot climate, and volcano. The majestic view of Mt Sakurajima, one of the world's most active volcanoes, dominates the city's landscape, towering over the beautiful Kinko Bay. The city abounds in historic sightseeing spots such as the memorial site of St. Francisco Xavier, who landed in Kagoshima and first introduced Christianity to Japan.

Nagasaki, Japan
Japan's early gateway to trade with the West, Nagasaki boasts stately European-style homes, a bustling harbor and fusion cuisine (be sure to try Nagasaki’s version of Castella sponge cake, introduced by Portuguese missionaries). The vibrant city is also synonymous with the dropping of the second atomic bomb, making a visit to Nagasaki's Peace Park a necessary, and deeply moving, experience. Admire the city’s natural beauty atop Mount Inasayama. Drive through splendid countryside to browse the galleries of Arita, the birthplace of Japanese porcelain. Back in Nagasaki, wander Japan's oldest Chinatown, trying Chinese food reinterpreted for Japanese tastes.

Seoul (Incheon), South Korea
From Incheon, travel to the capital of South Korea, a city that artfully balances cutting-edge and traditional. Admire the Korean architecture of Cheong Wa Dae (Blue House), the official residence of the President of the Republic of Korea. Shop the antique shops and art galleries craft stores of Insadong in Seoul’s art district. Learn centuries of Korean history at the National Museum. Be dazzled by the World Heritage-listed Changdeokgung, the most stunning of Seoul's five main palaces. In Incheon, visit a memorial to the landing operation led by General Douglas MacArthur in September 1950, a decisive victory that turned the course of the Korean War.

Jeju, South Korea
Jeju Island is often called the "Island of the Gods,” for its breathtaking landscape. UNESCO deemed the island’s dormant volcano Hallasan as a Biosphere Reserve because of the abundance and diversity of plant and animal species. Enjoy delicious fare, such as fresh fish, squid, octopus and sea cucumber, as well as its famous Shitake mushrooms and honey, which has a distinct taste.

Yeosu, South Korea
This picturesque city encompasses the 365 islands – 49 are inhabited – of the sprawling Yeosu peninsula on South Korea’s East China Sea coast. Historically critical as headquarters of the Korean navy during the Joseon (Yi) dynasty (1392–1910), Yeosu underwent a dramatic modernization when it hosted the 2012 World Expo and today offers a blend of verdant hills, glistening seas and striking architecture. Yeosu is a renowned foodie haven, with restaurants serving traditional fare like egg cockles, gulgui (grilled oyster) and spicy kimchi made with locally grown mustard leaves.

Beppu, Japan
Lovers of hot spring resorts, rejoice. Perched hillside on the southern Japanese island of Kyushu, Beppu bubbles with life thanks to a preponderance of onsen (hot springs). Enjoy a variety of rejuvenating bath types, from heated sand to traditional steam to hot mud. As one of the country’s most popular spots for enjoying a long, hot soak, most visitors find Beppu to be a delightful opportunity to absorb the more relaxed side of Japan’s vibrant culture.

Hiroshima, Japan
Surrounded by dense forests and enticing hot springs, cosmopolitan Hiroshima is a symbol of rebirth and resilience. Moving memorials to the world’s first atomic bomb attack of August 6, 1945 include the Peace Memorial Park and its Atomic Bomb Dome, a haunting symbol of the bomb’s devastation and a World Heritage site since 1996, and Children's Peace Monument. Take a ferry to the Island of Itsukushima, a holy place of Shintoism that’s Cultural Heritage-listed and site of the iconic ‘floating’ torii gate. After walking the wide boulevards of this vibrant city, sample the delicious, savory, street-food classic, Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki.

Kochi, Japan
Kochi boasts beautiful and abundant natural landscapes, from an expansive coastline running with the Kuroshio Current to the clear Shimanto River and the deep green forests that surround it. Located in the south of Shikoku, Kochi is ringed by rugged mountains to the north, and its arc-like southern coastline traces the outline of Tosa Bay. To the east is Cape Muroto, and to the west, Cape Ashizuri, with gently undulating sandy beaches stretching between these two extreme points. The prefecture also boasts the mystical limestone caves of Ryu-ga-do, and the beautiful sands and green pines of Katsura-hama Beach.

Tokushima, Japan
Spread around Mt. Bizan, a scenic summit you may reach via ropeway (cable car), this pleasant city is the capital of Tokushima Prefecture on Shikoku Island, Japan’s smallest main island. It is renowned for a pair of beloved Japanese traditions: Awa Odori, an annual dance festival held in mid-August, and a unique brand of indigo dye called ‘Awa-ai’ that is used to create iconic aizome products. The city is also home to four of the 88 temples that comprise the Shikoku Henro (Pilgrimage). Look for foods featuring sudachi, a locally grown citrus fruit.

Osaka, Japan
This charming city serves up amazing cuisine, superb shopping and a friendly spirit, with the restored Osaka Castle offering a spectacular lesson in Japanese history and culture. Osaka's nickname – Tenka no Daidokoro (The Nation's Kitchen) – originally referred to its Edo Period status as Japan's rice-trade hub; today it refers to the city’s reputation as a gourmand's paradise. Take in a 360-degree view from Abeno Harukas – Japan’s tallest skyscraper – before visiting the city’s spectacular aquarium and through Dotonbori, Osaka’s glittering heart. The immensely historical city of Kyoto is within reach, beckoning with spectacular architecture that includes thousands of Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines.

Shimizu, Japan
On a clear day, you can see magnificent Mount Fuji from the lively Port of Shimizu. Visit The S-Pulse Dream Plaza to tour the Shimizu Sushi Museum with informative displays and models that show the history and variations of Japan’s most famous fare. Stroll through the Kashi-no-Ichi Market, where some of the port's fresh seafood is sold and be sure to enjoy a delicious cup of tea.

Tokyo, Japan
Once the modest fishing village of Edo, modern Tokyo is a sprawling metropolis of extraordinary neighborhoods that is the sum of its seemingly endless parts: The tiny bars of Shinjuku's Golden Gai. The culinary delights of Nihombashi. Akihabara’s electronic gadgets and manga culture. The pottery shops of Asakusa. Nihombashi’s shopping meccas. Choose from museums covering every aspect of Japanese history and culture – don’t miss the treasures of the Tokyo National Museum. Visit the glorious Imperial Palace and Senso-ji temple in the ancient district of Asakusa. Dive into an unrivaled urban food scene that rewards the intrepid. And, of course, snap a selfie in Shibuya Crossing.