14 Nights Asia

Yokohama is easily accessible from Tokyo, but there's enough to see and do here that it's worth more than a day trip. Visit Minato Marai 21, a popular, modern neighborhood with great shopping and tons of restaurant options. TripAdvisor travelers also recommend stopping at Big Wharf (Osanbashi Pier), a uniquely shaped pier with spectacular views.

The skyline at Shimizu port is dominated by one of Japans most distinctive sites: snow-capped Mt. Fuji. Head to Miho-no-Matsubara, a pristine beach flanked by a picturesque pine grove, where you can take in some of the clearest views of Japans tallest mountain. Cruise to Mt. Fuji and take the one-hour drive from the port to Fuji itself for some hiking ? the mountain is relatively approachable climb appropriate even for beginners, and you dont have to hike all the way to the summit. Dont miss the ancient shrines that surround this volcanic landmark: Visit Fujisan Hongu Sengentaisha shrine, built to appease Fujis volcanic deity. Or see Kunouzan Toshogu shrine, a masterpiece of Japanese lacquer and woodwork.

Born in 300 AD as Naniwa, ancient Osaka has survived an earthquake and two fires to grow into one of Japan's largest, most prosperous cities. The graceful intersection of elongated canals and several parks makes for a beautiful city and a gorgeous waterfront.

Born in 300 AD as Naniwa, ancient Osaka has survived an earthquake and two fires to grow into one of Japan's largest, most prosperous cities. The graceful intersection of elongated canals and several parks makes for a beautiful city and a gorgeous waterfront.

Perched on a hill sloping down to the sea, Kobe is a maritime gateway to one of Japans most metropolitan cities. Mt. Rokko dominates the skyline ? from the summit, you can glimpse one of the best views in all Japan. Of course, Kobes also famous for breeding Wagyu cows that produce some of the highest-quality beef in the world. The stuff is so delicious that almost every restaurant in the area stocks it. Cruise to Japan and make your visit a full foodie mission and stop off at Osaka to indulge in the local tradition of kuidaore ? "eat until you drop."

Humming with happy energy, Kochi is a wholesome city blessed with green mountains and a network of blue rivers. The hub of the Kochi prefecture on the island of Shikoku, the citys streets are bustling hubs of activity ? walk by vendors selling everything from grilled Bonito fish to authentic secondhand kimonos. Dont miss Kochi Castle, one of the only original castles from Japans feudal age still standing today, with its traditional white towers perched on a hilltop above the city. Then, check out one of the citys 88 temples: The most famous is Chikurinji Temple on Mount Godaisan, complete with a five-story pagoda. Jump onboard a Kochi cruise and snack on imo-kenpi (candied sweet potatoes) in Hirome Ichiba indoor market

Long a popular destination for Japanese travelers looking for a relaxing beach break, Okinawa is gaining international popularity. Coral reefs provide great snorkeling and diving spots, but if you prefer to see beautiful fish without getting wet, Okinawa also has a fine aquarium. The ancient forests around the city offer a chance to view rare flora and fauna.

Best known for its verdant wilderness, Hualien city is also rich in cultural heritage. Cruise to Taiwan and start your adventure at Taroko Gorge, north of the city in the national park of the same name: See the stunning canyon with marble walls, take in views of the Pacific from the Qingshui Cliffs, and see the remnants of a 13th-century village inhabited by the Atayal, an indigenous Taiwanese tribe. Later, relax on the half-moon-shaped gulf at Qixingtan Beach, or see the influence left by Japanese rule from 1985 to 1945 at Karenko Shrine.

Before embarking in Keelung, the third-largest port in Taiwan,take a little time to do some sightseeing. This pleasant port city is home to such historical sites like the Sea Gate Barrier Fort and places of worship dedicated to Kuan Yin, the Goddess of Mercy.

Before embarking in Keelung, the third-largest port in Taiwan,take a little time to do some sightseeing. This pleasant port city is home to such historical sites like the Sea Gate Barrier Fort and places of worship dedicated to Kuan Yin, the Goddess of Mercy.

The "Wall Street of Asia" is one of the world's truly great cities. Reunited with China in 1997, it is a fast-paced, scintillating city brimming with Chinese medicine shops, British pubs, dazzling high rises, wooden boats, ancient villages, fish eateries and rugby lawns

The "Wall Street of Asia" is one of the world's truly great cities. Reunited with China in 1997, it is a fast-paced, scintillating city brimming with Chinese medicine shops, British pubs, dazzling high rises, wooden boats, ancient villages, fish eateries and rugby lawns