Sailings
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Date Date Location Location Arrival Arrival Departure Departure
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Fri, Oct 02, 2026 TOKYO 11:59 pm --Sat, Oct 03, 2026 TOKYO -- 4:00 pmSun, Oct 04, 2026 NAGOYA 9:00 am 6:00 pmMon, Oct 05, 2026 KOBE 1:00 pm --Tue, Oct 06, 2026 KOBE -- 8:00 pmWed, Oct 07, 2026 KOCHI 8:00 am 5:00 pmThu, Oct 08, 2026 HIROSHIMA 8:00 am 10:00 pmFri, Oct 09, 2026 BEPPU 8:30 am 5:00 pmSat, Oct 10, 2026 KAGOSHIMA 1:00 pm 10:00 pmSun, Oct 11, 2026 NAGASAKI 11:00 am 8:00 pmMon, Oct 12, 2026 FUKUOKA 8:00 am 8:00 pmTue, Oct 13, 2026 BUSAN 8:00 am 10:00 pmWed, Oct 14, 2026 YEOSU 8:00 am 8:00 pmThu, Oct 15, 2026 AT SEA -- --Fri, Oct 16, 2026 SEOUL (INCHEON) 6:00 am 6:00 pmFri, Oct 16, 2026 SEOUL (INCHEON) 6:30 am --Sat, Oct 17, 2026 AT SEA -- --Sun, Oct 18, 2026 BEIJING (TIANJIN) 7:00 am --Mon, Oct 19, 2026 BEIJING (TIANJIN) -- 7:00 pmTue, Oct 20, 2026 DALIAN 1:00 pm 7:00 pmWed, Oct 21, 2026 AT SEA -- --Thu, Oct 22, 2026 SHANGHAI 1:00 pm --Fri, Oct 23, 2026 SHANGHAI -- --Sat, Oct 24, 2026 SHANGHAI -- 1:00 pmSun, Oct 25, 2026 AT SEA -- --Mon, Oct 26, 2026 NAHA, OKINAWA 8:00 am 6:00 pmTue, Oct 27, 2026 ISHIGAKI 1:00 pm 8:00 pmWed, Oct 28, 2026 TAIPEI (KEELUNG) 8:00 am 8:00 pmThu, Oct 29, 2026 AT SEA -- --Fri, Oct 30, 2026 HONG KONG 8:00 am --Sat, Oct 31, 2026 HONG KONG 9:00 am --
Port
Arrival Port
WE'LL CHANGE THE WAY YOU SEE THE WORLD.
Once upon a time, and not so very long ago, an ocean liner was the only way to see the world. Well, here at Azamara, we believe it still is.
In the span of one vacation, you can journey to multiple destinations with no packing or unpacking...or leaving items behind in the process. You don''t have to worry about missing a connecting flight or extra transportation costs, let alone finding a parking spot. (And on Azamara's smaller-sized ships, we can drop you off at the doorsteps of great cities like Nice, Seville, and Hong Kong.)
With the added convenience of "a floating hotel" that follows you all over the world, your accommodation costs are already covered. So you can spend more time enjoying your vacation, and a lot less time -and money- on figuring out where you are going to stay. When you go cruising, not only do you have a variety of restaurants to choose from, but your meals are also included along the way (and on Azamara ships, your drinks are, too).
And while planes, trains, and automobiles offer less than spacious seating and practically nothing to entertain you, on a cruise you'll be able to unwind in between ports with a wide choice of complimentary activities, nightly shows, and enrichment programs, or enjoy a little "me time" with spa treatments and personal training sessions. Finally, at the end of the day, you can fall asleep in a wonderfully comfortable stateroom with all the amenities of a boutique hotel, complete with 24-hour room service, and then wake up in a new town or country...or even continent.
So really, when you think about it, the question shouldn't be, "Why cruise?" but "Why not?"
Indulgences
Aptly named, Indulgences will satisfy your desires for the
finer things in life. If you are looking for designer jewelry, it's the perfect
place to window shop or to find that extra special purchase.
The Persuit shop
It's one-stop shopping in The Persuit Shop. Apparel,
sundries, handbags, candies, souvenirs and lots more await. If you find that
you forgot to pack something, chances are you'll find it in The Persuit Shop.
Photo shop
Our photographers capture both fun and professional photos
throughout the voyage, whether it is your portrait, or photos of the
destinations you visit. You can also find an assortment of supplies for your
own photographic endeavors.
This library is one of the quiet jewels of Azamara, a
peaceful and beautifully appointed space for reading or relaxing after dinner.
Browse the collection and feel free to borrow the library books.
Pool bar
Our Pool Bar serves refreshments while enjoying the Pool
during the day, and cocktails of your choice in the evening.
Discoveries Bar
Located just outside Azamara’s main restaurant, this
congenial bar is a favorite gathering place for pre- and post-dinner
conversation and drinks. Bar service includes a full selection of fine wines,
mixed drinks, and premium spirits.
Sunset bar
Adjacent to Windows Cafe, the Sunset Bar is a welcoming
outdoor patio with covered and open-air seating, and a bar. It’s the perfect
place for dining alfresco, enjoying a refreshing drink, taking in the sights of
your favorite port, or simply watching the world sail by.
Cabaret Lounge
Enjoy live performances of professional full-stage musical
revues, classical soloists, bands and other entertainment in our Cabaret Lounge
featuring a full bar. You could see as many as four distinctly different shows
while onboard. And considering the cost of theater and entertainment tickets
back home, isn’t that nice?
The Den
Azamara Pursuit and Quest’s newest lounge exemplifies our
dedication to Destination Immersion experiences. The Den inspires you with
tools to travel to all corners of the world with travel books, guides, and
destination-focused activities.
Aqualina Restaurant
At Aqualina, you’ll find some of Italy’s most authentic
dishes. Pastas made from scratch, traditional recipes, and scrumptious
vegetarian dishes that make sure there’s something for everyone. Plus our
famous desserts: Sorrento lemon liqueur mousse, hazelnut chocolate souffle and
more.
Prime C Restaurant
Your choice of steak, cooked to perfection. Herb-coated rack
of lamb, duck confit and Chilean sea bass—all paired with savory sides. At
Prime C, you’re in for more than delectable dining. Expect an great evening
with stunning views and lush decor.
Windows Cafe
Our daily themed dinner often takes its inspiration from the
region we’re visiting-Indian, Mexican, Spanish, Italian. We also create an
extra live station made from local ingredients purchased in port: Greek salad
made with local feta (Greece), pasta prepared with local mushrooms (Italy),
fresh Mussels served with garlic bread (Netherlands).
The Patio and Swirl & Top
Casual "pool grill" by day. A sit-down al fresco
dining experience by night. Taste your way around the world with exclusive
personalized dishes using local flavors of the places we visit. Plus a
self-serve frozen yogurt station-Swirl & Top. With a variety of flavors and
your choice of toppings, it’s the perfect way to cool off.
Discoveries Restaurant
Discover the world through dishes and flavors from the
places we visit. Of course, you’ll also enjoy a wide variety of nightly
selections such as filet mignon with black truffle sauce. Reservations are not
accepted. Choose being seated at a table for two or as part of a larger group
of fellow guests.
Mosaic Cafe
Stylish and cozy, Mosaic offers your favorite coffee drinks exactly as you like them. Relax in a comfortable seat and enjoy. It’s the perfect spot to start or end your day, and it just might become your favorite place on the ship
The Pool
While spending daytime sun-drenched and relaxed by the pool, don’t think of missing Azamara’s famous White Night party held at least once on every cruise (weather permitting). Colorful decor and linen-draped tables, a fabulous buffet feast, and boutique wines on the house make this an event like no other. Not to forget the fun and fast-paced show our entertainment team puts on.
Card room & in touch
On the starboard side of the Living Room, guests will find
the Card Room for those who love a round of Bridge or other games. Four
computers and interactive table tops are available for guest use during the
voyage.
The living room
The idea of the Living Room is just that. It’s the perfect
space for guests throughout the day and evening to engage in lively
conversations, take in interesting speakers, peruse art, play a game of cards,
enjoy a cup of tea or coffee, wines & tapas, delightful music, or simply
relax with a good book.
Sun Deck
This deck is available for guests enjoying the sun and views
from high up. It is also a beautiful vantage point for sunsets (or sunrises),
and a quiet stroll at night. For those who love shuffle board, this is the
place to go.
Fitness center
Keep up your fitness routine or embark on a new one in our
onboard Fitness Center. Take part in yoga at sunset or toning Pilates; our
onboard wellness consultant is there to assist you every step.
The sanctum spa
Let our Spa transport you to a whole new world with
treatments inspired by rituals from exotic cultures. You'll also find a hair
salon, the Sanctum Terrace with a Thalassotherapy pool, and an assortment of
the finest spa products. The Sanctum Spa also includes a nail bar and pedicure
area, and dedicated stations for barber services, teeth whitening, and hair
services, along with the Medi-spa and acupuncture clinic.
- Refurbished: 2024
- Year Built: 2018
- Guest Capacity: 702
- Length: 592 ft (180 meters)
- Beam: 84 ft (25 meters)
- Cruising Speed: 18.5 knots
- Electric Current: 110/220 AC
- Net Tonnage: 30,277
- Ship's Registry: Malta
Two lower beds convertible to one Queen size bed, some staterooms feature sofa bed, 40" flat-screen TV, veranda, refrigerator with mini-bar, thermostat-controlled air conditioner, direct-dial telephone with voice mail, writing desk, in-room safe, and hand-held hairdryer. Category 08 with obstructed views.
Stateroom Amenities: Luxurious cotton bed linens with duvet. Terry bathrobes and slippers. 24-hour room service. "About Rose" toiletries - sophisticated luxury soaps and fine toiletries. Welcome fruit basket at embarkation. Fresh-cut flowers. Tote bag. Complimentary use of umbrella and binoculars. Complimentary shoe-shine service. Turndown treats. Daily news bulletin. Complimentary AzAmazing Evenings event (on most voyages). Select standard spirits, international beers and wines. Gratuities. Bottled water, soft drinks, specialty coffees and teas. Self-service laundry. Shuttle service to and from port communities, where available. Concierge services for personal guidance and reservations.
Two lower beds convertible to queen size; some with sofa bed; flat-screen television; refrigerator with mini-bar; thermostat-controlled air conditioning, direct-dial telephone and voicemail; desk; in-room safe; hand-held hairdryer. Accessible stateroom features: Stateroom door width: at least 33 inches; bathroom door width: at least 34 inches; no doorsill to get into stateroom; ramped bathroom thresholds; bathroom grab bars; lowered sink and stateroom vanity; roll-in showers; fold-down shower bench; hand-held showerheads; lowered closet rod; refrigerator in stateroom (upon request); adjustable height commode chairs (upon request).
Stateroom Amenities: Luxurious cotton bed linens with duvet. Terry bathrobes and slippers. 24-hour room service. "About Rose" toiletries - sophisticated luxury soaps and fine toiletries. Welcome fruit basket at embarkation. Fresh-cut flowers. Tote bag. Complimentary use of umbrella and binoculars. Complimentary shoe-shine service. Turndown treats. Daily news bulletin. Complimentary AzAmazing Evenings event (on most voyages). Select standard spirits, international beers and wines. Gratuities. Bottled water, soft drinks, specialty coffees and teas. Self-service laundry. Shuttle service to and from port communities, where available. Concierge services for personal guidance and reservations.
Completely refurbished with fresh contemporary decor in 2016. Two lower beds convertible to one Queen size bed. 40" flat-screen television. Refrigerator with mini-bar. Thermostat-controlled air conditioner. Direct-dial telephone with voice mail. Writing desk. In-room safe. Hand-held hairdryer. USB ports under bedside reading lamps.
Stateroom Amenities: Luxurious cotton bed linens with duvet. Terry bathrobes and slippers. 24-hour room service. "About Rose" toiletries - sophisticated luxury soaps and fine toiletries. Welcome fruit basket at embarkation. Fresh-cut flowers. Tote bag. Complimentary use of umbrella and binoculars. Complimentary shoe-shine service. Turndown treats. Daily news bulletin. Complimentary AzAmazing Evenings event (on most voyages). Select standard spirits, international beers and wines. Gratuities. Bottled water, soft drinks, specialty coffees and teas. Self-service laundry. Shuttle service to and from port communities, where available. Concierge services for personal guidance and reservations.
Completely refurbished with fresh contemporary decor in 2016. Two lower beds convertible to one Queen size bed. 40" flat-screen television. Refrigerator with mini-bar. Thermostat-controlled air conditioner. Direct-dial telephone with voice mail. Writing desk. In-room safe. Hand-held hairdryer. USB ports under bedside reading lamps. Stateroom door width: at least 32 inches. Bathroom door width: at least 32 inches. No doorsill to get into stateroom. Ramped bathroom thresholds. Bathroom grab bars. Lowered sink and stateroom vanity. Roll-in showers or accessible bathtubs. Fold-down shower bench. Lowered closet rod. Refrigerator in stateroom (upon request). Adjustable height commode chairs (upon request). Accessible balconies (selected staterooms).
Stateroom Amenities: Luxurious cotton bed linens with duvet. Terry bathrobes and slippers. 24-hour room service. "About Rose" toiletries - sophisticated luxury soaps and fine toiletries. Welcome fruit basket at embarkation. Fresh-cut flowers. Tote bag. Complimentary use of umbrella and binoculars. Complimentary shoe-shine service. Turndown treats. Daily news bulletin. Complimentary AzAmazing Evenings event (on most voyages). Select standard spirits, international beers and wines. Gratuities. Bottled water, soft drinks, specialty coffees and teas. Self-service laundry. Shuttle service to and from port communities, where available. Concierge services for personal guidance and reservations.
Completely refurbished with elegant contemporary decor in 2016. Spacious living room with a separate master bedroom. Master bedroom with one king size bed and a 40" flat-screen television. 55" flat-screen television in living room. Marble master bathroom with shower. Journey and Quest suites feature a tub.. Dressing room with vanity and ample closet space. Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors in living room and master bedroom. Spacious veranda. Refrigerator with mini-bar. Thermostat-controlled air conditioner. Direct-dial telephone with voice mail. Writing desk. In-room safe. Hand-held hair dryer.
All Azamara Suites include: AzAmazing Evenings event (on most voyages of seven nights or longer). Select standard spirits, international beers and wines. Gratuities. Bottled water, soft drinks, specialty coffees and teas. Self-service laundry. Shuttle service to and from port communities, where available. Concierge services for personal guidance and reservations. English butler service. 235 complimentary Internet minutes per person. One free bag of laundry service per suite, each seven days. Complimentary specialty restaurants dining. Afternoon tea service in-suite.
Completely refurbished with elegant contemporary decor in 2016. Spacious living room with a separate master bedroom. Master bedroom with one king size bed and a 40" flat-screen television. 55" flat-screen television in living room. Marble master bathroom with shower. Journey and Quest suites feature a tub.. Dressing room with vanity and ample closet space. Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors in living room and master bedroom. Spacious veranda. Refrigerator with mini-bar. Thermostat-controlled air conditioner. Direct-dial telephone with voice mail. Writing desk. In-room safe. Hand-held hair dryer.
All Azamara Suites include: AzAmazing Evenings event (on most voyages of seven nights or longer). Select standard spirits, international beers and wines. Gratuities. Bottled water, soft drinks, specialty coffees and teas. Self-service laundry. Shuttle service to and from port communities, where available. Concierge services for personal guidance and reservations. English butler service. 235 complimentary Internet minutes per person. One free bag of laundry service per suite, each seven days. Complimentary specialty restaurants dining. Afternoon tea service in-suite.
Two lower beds convertible to one queen size bed. Spacious and comfortable sitting area. 55" flat-screen television in sitting area and roomy bathroom with shower, some also feature a tub. Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors and veranda. Refrigerator with mini-bar,thermostat-controlled air conditioner, direct-dial telephone with voice mail, writing desk, in-room safe and hand-held hair dryer. USB ports under bedside reading lamps.
All Azamara Suites include: AzAmazing Evenings event (on most voyages of seven nights or longer). Select standard spirits, international beers and wines. Gratuities. Bottled water, soft drinks, specialty coffees and teas. Self-service laundry. Shuttle service to and from port communities, where available. Concierge services for personal guidance and reservations. English butler service. 235 complimentary Internet minutes per person. One free bag of laundry service per suite, each seven days. Complimentary specialty restaurants dining. Afternoon tea service in-suite.
Two lower beds convertible to one queen size bed. Spacious and comfortable sitting area. 55" flat-screen television in sitting area and roomy bathroom with shower, some also feature a tub. Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors and veranda. Refrigerator with mini-bar,thermostat-controlled air conditioner, direct-dial telephone with voice mail, writing desk, in-room safe and hand-held hair dryer. USB ports under bedside reading lamps.
All Azamara Suites include: AzAmazing Evenings event (on most voyages of seven nights or longer). Select standard spirits, international beers and wines. Gratuities. Bottled water, soft drinks, specialty coffees and teas. Self-service laundry. Shuttle service to and from port communities, where available. Concierge services for personal guidance and reservations. English butler service. 235 complimentary Internet minutes per person. One free bag of laundry service per suite, each seven days. Complimentary specialty restaurants dining. Afternoon tea service in-suite.
Newly built suites in 2016 with an elegant organic decor. Two lower beds convertible to one queen size bed. Spacious glass-enclosed bathtub. Separate rain shower. Comfortable sitting area. 55" flat-screen television in sitting area. In-room spa music. Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors. Veranda. Refrigerator with mini-bar. Thermostat-controlled air conditioner. Direct-dial telephone with voice mail. Writing desk. In-room safe. Hand-held hair dryer.
All Azamara Suites include: AzAmazing Evenings event (on most voyages of seven nights or longer). Select standard spirits, international beers and wines. Gratuities. Bottled water, soft drinks, specialty coffees and teas. Self-service laundry. Shuttle service to and from port communities, where available. Concierge services for personal guidance and reservations. English butler service. 235 complimentary Internet minutes per person. One free bag of laundry service per suite, each seven days. Complimentary specialty restaurants dining. Afternoon tea service in-suite.
Completely refurbished with fresh contemporary decor in 2016. Two lower beds convertible to one Queen size bed. Comfortable sitting area with 40" flat-screen TV. Veranda. Refrigerator with mini-bar. Thermostat-controlled air conditioner. Direct-dial telephone with voice mail. Writing desk. In-room safe. Hand-held hairdryer. USB ports under bedside reading lamps.
Stateroom Amenities: Luxurious cotton bed linens with duvet. Terry bathrobes and slippers. 24-hour room service. "About Rose" toiletries - sophisticated luxury soaps and fine toiletries. Welcome fruit basket at embarkation. Fresh-cut flowers. Tote bag. Complimentary use of umbrella and binoculars. Complimentary shoe-shine service. Turndown treats. Daily news bulletin. Complimentary AzAmazing Evenings event (on most voyages). Select standard spirits, international beers and wines. Gratuities. Bottled water, soft drinks, specialty coffees and teas. Self-service laundry. Shuttle service to and from port communities, where available. Concierge services for personal guidance and reservations.
Completely refurbished with fresh contemporary decor in 2016. Two lower beds convertible to one Queen size bed. Comfortable sitting area with 40" flat-screen TV. Veranda. Refrigerator with mini-bar. Thermostat-controlled air conditioner. Direct-dial telephone with voice mail. Writing desk. In-room safe. Hand-held hairdryer. USB ports under bedside reading lamps.
Stateroom Amenities: Luxurious cotton bed linens with duvet, terry bathrobes and slippers, 24-hour room service, "About Rose" toiletries sophisticated luxury soaps and fine toiletries, welcome fruit basket at embarkation, fresh-cut flowers, tote bag, complimentary use of umbrella and binoculars, complimentary shoe-shine service, turndown treats, and daily news bulletin.
Please note: Stateroom images and features are samples only. Actual furniture, fixtures, colors, configurations and window/porthole views may vary.
- Stateroom Symbol Legend
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Wheelchair-Accessible stateroom
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Convertible Sofa Bed
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One Upper Berth
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Inside Stateroom Door Location
Deck Eleven
Huge department stores brim with shoppers, neon flashes from dusk to dawn, and the entire world pays heed to the slightest fluctuation on the Nikkei Index. From the Imperial Palace and Meiji Shrine to the fabled Ginza district, 20th-century Tokyo is an intriguing composite of East and West. Yuppies sporting Walkmen bow formally in greeting. Women in kimonos and Dior suits stroll side-by-side. Geishas play samisens while disc jockeys play the Top Forty. Japanese houses of wood and paper stand in the shadow of towering steel and mortar. Not far away, one of the world's most impressive sights soars 12,388 feet to its snow-clad peak: Mount Fuji, the majestic symbol of Japan.
Toba is a coastal city located in Mie Prefecture, renowned for its stunning ocean views and rich maritime culture. It is famous for the Toba Aquarium, which showcases a wide variety of marine life, including dolphins and sea turtles. Toba is also known for its production of cultured pearls, and visitors can learn about this fascinating industry at local pearl shops and museums. The city offers beautiful beaches, scenic walking trails, and delicious seafood, making it a popular destination for both relaxation and exploration. Additionally, nearby Matsusaka is known for its high-quality beef, making Toba a great spot for food lovers.
Famous for its succulent Kobe beef and cosmopolitan flair, this booming port town sits between the Rokko Mountains and Osaka Bay. It contains a remarkable cultural mix of Swiss chalets, Moslem mosques and Russian Orthodox churches tucked between traditional Japanese buildings. A cable car ascends to the summit of Mount Rokko, a national park.
Set on a bay in the Inland Sea, Hiroshima was the infamous site of the first atomic bomb explosion of August, 1945. But perhaps the best reason to visit Hiroshima is the enchanting island of Miyajima with its famous Itsukushima Shinto shrine, considered one of Japan's three most beautiful sights. Its famous torii stands just offshore, a tall, vermilion-colored symbol of Japan, which appears to float during high tide.
This large city is an excursion base from which to explore the dramatic coastlines, national parks and volcanic mountains of Kyushu, Japan's third largest island. Mount Sakurajima, an active volcano, can be reached by ferry. To the north, Kirishima-Yaku National Park is a scenic area of smoking volcanoes, craters and lakes. South of the city, Ibusuki, the island's most popular seaside resort, welcomes kimono-clad bathers to its sandy beaches and warm, underwater springs.
One of Japan's most historic cities, Nagasaki was a major port, trading with the Portuguese and Dutch in the 16th century. You can still see this colonial legacy in the brick buildings, old forts, canals and curving cobblestone streets. On a hill overlooking the bay, beautiful Glover Mansion, the setting of Madame Butterfly, is typical of the fine homes built by wealthy foreign residents. But Nagasaki's ties with Korea and China are equally apparent in the famous Chinese temple, a large Chinese colony and the numerous fine Korean and Chinese restaurants.
Set like a jewel in the Andaman Sea, Thailand's largest island has great expanses of sandy beaches that lure sun-seekers to their shores, and a unique culture combining influences from China and Portugal. Visit the fabled monastery of Wat Chalong, the Orchard Garden and the Thai Village, where examples of the country's culture are presented in a tranquil lakeside setting.
Korea''s "museum without walls" is akin only to China in its depth and cultural wonder. From Pusan, you can journey to the ancient Silla capital of Kyongju, a dynasty which reigned in Korea for almost a thousand years. Today this small provincial town is virtually a museum without walls, dotted with many splendid ruins. Nearby, the forested mountains and valleys shelter hundreds of beautiful Buddhist shrines including the renowned Sokkuram Grotto, and Tongdosa and Pulguksa Temples. Pusan is also a shopper''s mecca and Korea''s vital southern link to Japanese and American trade.
Inchon is the port of Korea's booming capital, a shopping paradise which vies with Hong Kong. But historic Seoul also brims with treasures. Begin with a bird's-eye view atop Namsan Hill. Visit Kyonbok Gun, the Palace of Bright Happiness, and the 14th-century Changdok Palace, home of the royal family. Stroll through its beautiful Secret Garden, 80 acres of ponds, tea houses and pavilions. Discover the extensive collection of Korean art in the National Museum. Or travel beyond Seoul's ancient gates to the Nanhan Mountain Castle or historic Suwon and its wonderful Folk Village of Minsokchon.
From the port of Tianjin, you can venture to the ancient capital of China: Beijing. It is a veritable treasure-trove of historic wonders, including the Forbidden City where you enter the world of The Last Emperor, a complex of incredible historic significance and physical grandeur. Just outside the walls of the Imperial Palace lies the largest plaza on earth, Tiananmen Square, home to Mao's Monument and his Mausoleum. At the Summer Palace, you'll step into a pastoral mist of natural and man-made beauty: 700 acres of stunning parkland, dreamy lakes, fascinating temples and halls. The Summer Palace evokes a feeling of serenity as you wander through fairy-tale landscapes and manicured gardens. Then witness the efforts of nearly a million workers who walled in an empire by hand. As you climb the Great Wall toward one of its towers, the spirit of endurance and determination takes hold, a poignant reminder of the painstaking endeavors of 2,500 years ago.
Dalian sits at the tip of the Liaodong peninsula... because it sits right on the sea, the city is free from the heavy pollution facing other Chinese cities... In the summer, Dalian transforms into a resort town, with Chinese families from the inland making the trek out to the beaches on the outskirts of the city. The twenty mile stretch of beach here is among the finest in all of China. Dalian is also home to an annual International Fashion Festival, along with a Spring Festival to ring in the Chinese New Year.
From opium wars to junks and barges, images of Shanghai flood the senses. The real Shanghai is a teeming metropolis of 11 million, bustling with energy, towering skyscrapers and art deco buildings, honking traffic and shopping crowds. But once you enter China's largest city, you'll find Eastern ways abound: Tai Chi along the Bund, the serenity of exquisite ponds and gardens, and an endless flotilla of sampans edging along the Huangpu River. Explore Shanghai old and new: the busy bazaars and alleyways of the Old Town, Yu Garden, the Wuxingting Tea House, Long Hua Temple and more.
Across the Formosa Strait from mainland China is the bustling port of Keelung, on the island of Taiwan. Just 20 miles inland is Taipei, the national capital, one of the most prosperous cities in Asia. Marvel at the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, the Grand Hotel, and the National Palace Museum, with its art treasures from Beijing''s Forbidden City.
Hong Kong is the cosmopolitan hub of the Far East. This former British colony reverted to Chinese control in 1997, yet the culture-rich atmosphere remains. See the Wong Tai Sin Temple, tour local markets and the floating village of Aberdeen. Take the Tram to the top of Victoria Peak for one of the world''s most exciting views, or cross the harbor aboard one of the famous Star Ferries. After shopping and exploring, enjoy high tea at the favored retreat of many world travelers-the Peninsula Hotel.