Optional Private Shore Excursions

(subject to change)

Shore Excursions: A Harmonious Blend of Culture and Culinary Excellence


Embark on shore excursions that seamlessly combine culture and cuisine, offering you an immersive experience in each destination. Delight in the flavors of local culinary traditions while exploring the rich cultural heritage of each port. From vibrant markets and renowned local eateries to historic landmarks and hidden gems, each excursion promises to tantalize your taste buds and ignite your curiosity.


Our curated shore excursions have been thoughtfully designed to bring you closer to the heart of each destination, allowing you to savor authentic flavors and traditions alongside Chef Eric Leterc. Join us on this journey of culinary discovery and cultural immersion, where every stop is an unforgettable feast for both the senses and the soul.





  DAY

PORTS OF CALL

ARRIVAL

DEPARTURE

  February 03, Monday Hong Kong, China Embark 7:00 PM
  February 04, Tuesday Day at Sea    
  February 05, Wednesday Keelung, Taiwan 9:00 AM 5:00 PM
  February 06, Thursday Miyako-Jima, Japan 8:00 AM 6:00 PM
  February 07, Friday Naha, Okinawa, Japan 8:00 AM 7:00 PM
  February 08, Saturday Day at Sea    
  February 09, Sunday Kagoshima, Japan 8:00 AM 6:00 PM
  February 10, Monday Kochi, Japan 12:00 PM 6:00 PM
  February 11, Tuesday Kobe, Japan 8:00 AM 10:00 PM
  February 12, Wednesday Day at Sea    
  February 13, Thursday Tokyo, Japan 8:00 AM Overnight
  February 14, Friday Tokyo, Japan   Disembark AM
*Arrival and departure times for this port will depend on tidal restrictions


Begin your day exploring Taipei’s oldest and most historically significant street. Established during the Qing Dynasty in the mid-1800s, Dihua Street was once the bustling center of trade for rice, tea, sugar, and camphor. Marvel at its beautifully preserved architecture blending Fujian and Western styles, browse cultural goods, and find unique souvenirs such as fabrics and artisanal crafts.

Visit the 254-year-old Lungshan Temple, an exquisite masterpiece of Buddhist and Taoist artistry. Built by settlers from Fujian province, the temple is adorned with intricate carvings in bronze, stone, and wood. It is dedicated to Kuanyin and Matsu, the goddesses of Mercy and the Sea, alongside other revered deities.

Proceed to Taipei 101, an iconic modern skyscraper. Enjoy a memorable lunch at the world-renowned Din Tai Fung restaurant, savoring their exquisite Xiao Long Bao and other delicacies.

After lunch, ascend Taipei 101 to visit its observatories. The 89th-floor Indoor Observatory provides panoramic views of Taipei, while the 88th-floor wind damper showcases an engineering marvel that stabilizes the building. Weather permitting, visit the 91st-floor Outdoor Observatory to enjoy stunning views of the spire and city skyline.

Conclude this enriching excursion with a return to the port, carrying unforgettable memories of Taipei’s cultural and architectural treasures.

Tour Price Includes:

  • Transportation: Private transport by luxury coach
  • Local, English-speaking tour guide(s)
  • Meal: lunch included
  • Entrance Fee(s) as per itinerary
  • Guide & Driver gratuity
  • Shore Excursion Price: $225.00 per person

    This excursion highlights the scenic beauty, artisanal craftsmanship, traditional flavors, and spiritual heritage of Miyakojima for a memorable cultural experience.

    Arrive at Miyakojima Port and begin your full-day immersion into the unique island life and culture of Miyakojima. Start with a scenic drive over Kurima Bridge, enjoying sweeping views of the turquoise waters and lush landscapes. Stop at the Ryugujo Observatory, a perfect vantage point for capturing the beauty of the island’s coastal scenery, a staple of Japanese island life.

    Next, visit the Miyakojima City Traditional Crafts Center, where you’ll see local artisans at work, creating handcrafted goods that reflect the island’s cultural heritage. From textiles to pottery, each item tells a story of Miyakojima’s rich traditions and connection to nature.

    For lunch, indulge in a traditional Japanese BBQ at Heaven, featuring local specialties like Miyako Island soba and fresh seafood—a true taste of island flavors that locals cherish. After lunch, experience the natural beauty of Utopia Farm Miyakojima, where tropical plants and flowers thrive, reflecting the island’s warm climate and agricultural pride.

    Enjoy some free time shopping at Painagama Beach Souvenir Shops, where you can find unique mementos, many crafted by local artisans, that capture the essence of Miyakojima’s charm. Finally, conclude your cultural journey with a visit to the Miyako Shrine, a peaceful and revered site where locals come to honor traditional Shinto beliefs and practices. The day wraps up with a return to Miyako Port, leaving you with a deeper understanding and appreciation of Miyakojima’s island life and enduring cultural spirit.

    Tour Price Includes:

  • Transportation: Private transport by luxury coach
  • Local, English-speaking tour guide(s)
  • Meal: lunch included
  • Entrance Fee(s) as per itinerary
  • Guide & Driver gratuity
  • Shore Excursion Price: $224.00 per person

    This tour combines Okinawa’s iconic landmarks, hands-on cultural experiences, and culinary delights for a memorable island adventure.

    Begin your full-day cultural exploration of Okinawa at Naha Port, where you’ll embark on a journey through the island’s rich heritage and flavors. Start with a visit to Shuri Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site that once served as the royal palace of the Ryukyu Kingdom. This historic landmark showcases traditional Okinawan architecture and offers insight into the island's vibrant past.

    Next, stroll through Shikinaen Garden, a serene landscape of stone paths, ponds, and lush greenery, originally built for the royal family. The garden’s design blends Japanese, Chinese, and Okinawan influences, making it a perfect place to experience Okinawa’s unique cultural fusion.

    Continue to the Tsuboya Pottery District, where you’ll discover the artistry of traditional Okinawan ceramics. This district is famous for its pottery, known as "yachimun," which has been crafted here for centuries. Take some time to browse and perhaps pick up a piece of handmade pottery as a meaningful keepsake.

    For lunch, you will savor a meal at one of Naha’s local restaurants, where you can experience Okinawa’s culinary specialties, rich in flavors that reflect the island’s unique culture and ingredients.

    After lunch, explore Naha’s famous Kokusai Street, a lively shopping area filled with local boutiques, craft stores, and eateries. Here, you’ll find souvenirs and taste traditional Okinawan snacks as you soak in the bustling atmosphere.

    Conclude your tour with a visit to Chuko Gura Awamori Brewery, where you’ll learn about the art of crafting awamori, Okinawa’s distinctive rice liquor. Enjoy a tasting session and discover why this spirit has been cherished in Okinawan culture for centuries.

    Your day ends with a return to Naha Port, leaving you with a deep appreciation for Okinawa’s history, artistry, and culinary traditions.

    Tour Price Includes:

  • Transportation: Private transport by luxury coach
  • Local, English-speaking tour guide(s)
  • Meal: lunch included
  • Entrance Fee(s) as per itinerary
  • Guide & Driver gratuity
  • Shore Excursion Price: $238.00 per person

    This excursion provides a well-rounded experience of Kagoshima’s spiritual, historical, and culinary highlights, ideal for travelers seeking an authentic and enriching adventure.

    Arrive at Kagoshima Port and embark on a cultural journey through the historic and scenic highlights of this beautiful city. Begin with a visit to the Kirishima Shrine, a revered Shinto shrine nestled in lush forests and known for its spiritual atmosphere and stunning architecture. This sacred site offers an authentic glimpse into Japan’s spiritual heritage.

    Next, explore Sengan-en and the Shoko Shuseikan Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Sengan-en is a beautifully preserved Japanese garden with sweeping views of Sakurajima volcano and Kagoshima Bay, while the Shoko Shuseikan Museum showcases the history of the Shimadzu family, one of Japan’s most influential samurai clans. Here, you’ll gain insight into Kagoshima's cultural legacy and craftsmanship.

    For lunch, enjoy a traditional Japanese meal at a restaurant within Sengan-en, where you’ll savor local specialties prepared with fresh ingredients, giving you a true taste of Kagoshima’s culinary heritage.

    Afterward, stroll through Tenmonkan Shopping Street, Kagoshima’s bustling hub of boutiques, souvenir shops, and cafes. This lively district is the perfect place to pick up unique local items, try traditional treats, and immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture.

    Your excursion concludes with a return to Kagoshima Port, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Japan’s natural beauty, rich history, and culinary delights.

    Tour Price Includes:

  • Transportation: Private transport by luxury coach
  • Local, English-speaking tour guide(s)
  • Meal: lunch included
  • Entrance Fee(s) as per itinerary
  • Guide & Driver gratuity
  • Shore Excursion Price: $209.00 per person

    This tour is ideal for travelers seeking an authentic Japanese experience, with highlights that showcase Kochi’s heritage, culinary traditions, and lively local atmosphere.

    Arrive at Kochi Port and set out on a captivating day tour that blends history, culture, and culinary delights. Begin with a visit to Kochi Castle, one of Japan’s few remaining original castles, where you’ll step back in time to the Edo period and experience breathtaking views over the city. The castle’s architecture and historical exhibits provide a deep insight into Japan’s feudal past and Kochi’s unique heritage.

    Next, head to Hirome Market, a bustling food hall that captures the spirit of Kochi’s local culture. Here, you’ll find an incredible variety of food stalls and vendors offering fresh seafood, traditional Japanese street food, and Kochi’s famous specialty, katsuo no tataki (seared bonito). Enjoy a true taste of Kochi as you savor local dishes alongside residents in a lively, communal setting.

    After your meal, explore the shopping streets around Hirome Market, where you can browse for unique souvenirs, handcrafted items, and traditional Japanese goods. This area offers a wonderful opportunity to interact with local artisans and shopkeepers, adding a personal touch to your experience.

    The day concludes with a return to Kochi Port, leaving you with lasting memories of Kochi’s historical charm, vibrant food culture, and warm hospitality.

    Tour Price Includes:

  • Transportation: Private transport by luxury coach
  • Local, English-speaking tour guide(s)
  • Entrance Fee(s) as per itinerary
  • Guide & Driver gratuity
  • Shore Excursion Price: $149.00 per person

    This tour is perfect for travelers who wish to experience the heart of Kyoto’s culture, from its exquisite cuisine to its iconic temples and scenic landscapes.

    Arrive at Kobe Port and embark on a cultural journey through Kyoto, a city known for its timeless beauty and culinary excellence. Visit Kinkakuji, the Golden Pavilion, an iconic Zen temple covered in brilliant gold leaf and surrounded by tranquil gardens—a sight that captures the essence of Japanese aesthetics and spirituality.

    For lunch, indulge in an unforgettable dining experience at Uosaburo, a Michelin two-starred restaurant renowned for its exquisite Kyoto-style kaiseki cuisine. Using only the finest seasonal ingredients, Uosaburo crafts delicate dishes that highlight the flavors and beauty of Japanese culinary tradition. Each course is a work of art, reflecting the precision and elegance for which Kyoto’s cuisine is celebrated.

    After lunch, continue to Masuda Tokubei Shoten, a traditional sake brewery where you’ll explore the art of sake-making. Enjoy a tasting session that showcases the depth and diversity of Japan’s beloved rice wine, a cultural staple with roots in Kyoto’s Fushimi district, famed for its high-quality sake.

    Conclude your tour with a visit to Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates that form a mesmerizing pathway up the mountain. This sacred site, dedicated to the Shinto god of rice and prosperity, offers a serene and visually stunning end to your day in Kyoto. The tour concludes with a return to Kobe Port, leaving you with cherished memories of Kyoto’s culinary treasures, cultural beauty, and spiritual grace.

    Tour Price Includes:

  • Transportation: Private coach
  • Local, English-speaking tour guide(s)
  • Meal: lunch included
  • Entrance Fee(s) as per itinerary
  • Guide & Driver gratuity
  • Shore Excursion Price: $278.00 per person

    Disembark from your Crystal Cruise at Yokohama Port, where you will claim your luggage and be escorted to your awaiting motorcoach by an English-speaking guide for a seamless transfer to the Peninsula Hotel Tokyo. Begin your journey with an immersive cultural tour through Kamakura, starting with a scenic drive to the revered Great Buddha at Kotokuin. This monumental bronze statue, steeped in history and spiritual significance, offers a powerful reflection of Japan’s deep-rooted Buddhist traditions.

    Continue to Tsurugaoka Hachiman Shrine, a symbol of Kamakura's rich heritage that embodies the harmonious blend of Shinto practices and local customs. Experience the shrine’s sacred atmosphere, which is perfect for appreciating the traditional rituals and architecture that define Japanese culture.

    Stroll along Kamakura Komachi Street, where you’ll find an array of artisanal shops and local vendors, offering a chance to explore the cultural heart of the town. This vibrant street is filled with traditional crafts and culinary delights that showcase the region’s unique character.

    Savor an exquisite Japanese lunch at Hachinoki, a restaurant renowned for its dedication to authentic flavors and refined culinary techniques. This dining experience will immerse you in the depth of Japanese cuisine, celebrating the harmonious balance of taste and tradition.

    After your enriching cultural and culinary journey, complete your transfer to the Peninsula Hotel Tokyo, a prestigious 5-star hotel known for its elegant blend of modern luxury and traditional Japanese hospitality. Arrive with your cruise luggage seamlessly handled, allowing you to settle in with ease. The Peninsula Tokyo offers world-class amenities, and exceptional dining experiences, With two nights in Tokyo and a guaranteed 6 PM check out you have ample time to delve deeper into its unique blend of tradition and modernity, enjoying the city's rich offerings and creating lasting memories.

    Tour Price Includes:

  • Transportation: Private coach
  • Luggage transfer from port to hotel
  • Local, English-speaking tour guide(s)
  • Meal: lunch included
  • Entrance Fee(s) as per itinerary
  • Guide & Driver gratuity
  • Shore Excursion Price: $180.00 per person

    Please refer to the Post-Tokyo Tour for details