China and Japan by Rail and Sea Itinerary
DAY 1 & 2- Arrive in Beijing
Fly overnight to Beijing, China’s historical capital. On arrival at the airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Depending on your time of arrival the rest of the day is yours to start soaking up the local culture.
DAY 3- Explore Beijing
Walk through Beijing’s symbolic heart, Tiananmen Square and into the sprawling magnificence of the Forbidden City, a complex full of imperial riches. Then, find harmony in the symmetry of the Temple of Heaven. This evening, dine on local delicacy, Peking Duck.
DAY 4- The Great Wall
Travel out of the city to the magnificent Great Wall of China, learning a little about its long history before taking a short walk to fully appreciate this world-famous structure. Stop off at a jade factory before visiting the Sacred Way and Ming Tombs. This evening, enjoy a thrilling acrobatic show.
DAY 5- Travel to Pingyao
Transfer to the train station and board a bullet train to Pingyao. A living museum and home to China’s best preserved ancient city walls, walk the characterful streets to see the Qing Dynasty Yamen building and the Rishengchang Financial House Museum.
DAY 6- Travel to Xian
This morning is at leisure (additional option: hands-on noodle making demonstration) before travelling to Xian by bullet train.
DAY 7- Explore Xian
This morning, come face to face with the Terracotta Warriors, an army created to protect China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, in the afterlife. The, watch skilled artisans making smaller warriors using the same methods as their ancient counterparts. Later, stroll Xian’s beautifully preserved 14th-century city walls, before a dumpling demonstration, a delicious dumpling banquet and a Tang Dynasty show.
DAY 8- Travel to Chengdu
After breakfast, walk through the atmospheric alleyways of the Muslim Quarter, lined with delicious street food stalls. Then, transfer to the station and board a bullet train to Chengdu. This evening, dine on a delicious Sichuan hot pot, a local speciality, and watch a fascinating face changing show.
DAY 9- Explore Chengdu
This morning is dedicated to Chengdu’s most famous resident, the lovable giant panda. Visit the Dujiangyan Panda Research Base to learn all about them and see them relaxing, play and chomping on bamboo (additional option: volunteer at the Panda Base). Return to Chengdu where you’ll take a stroll around People’s Park and enjoy a cup of Chinese tea in a traditional teahouse.
DAY 10- Train to Guilin
Board a bullet train to the city of Guilin, beautifully set on the Li River. Upon arrival, the rest of the day is at leisure to start soaking up the scenery.
DAY 11- Li River Cruise
Float gently through the dramatic karst scenery of the Li River to reach the charming town of Yangshuo. Around every river bend is a view to take your breath away, as the jagged peaks loom over rural scenes of lush paddy fields and grazing buffalos. Next, explore Yangshuo, wandering the cobbled streets and browsing the local market. This evening, enjoy the Impression of Liu Sanjie show.
DAY 12- Around Yangshuo
Spend the morning exploring the spectacular countryside around Yangshuo. Return to Guilin via the impressive Reed Flute Caves.
DAY 13- Train to Hong Kong
All aboard the bullet train to Hong Kong! On arrival, the rest of the day is at leisure to start exploring this incredible city.
DAY 14- Explore Hong Kong
Spend the day exploring under the iconic skyline of Hong Kong. Ride the tram up Victoria Peak for breathtaking views and a fascinating walking tour. Return to Central and ride the Central Escalator to Tai Kwan, the city’s new artistic hub. Continue to Hollywood Road and Man Mo Temple. Enjoy a dim sum making demonstration, before eating dim sum for lunch, then head for the West Kowloon Cultural District. Later, follow The Avenue of Stars to admire Victoria Harbour at night.
DAY 15- Board the Norwegian Jade
After breakfast you will be transferred to Hong Kong’s cruise terminal to board your cruise. The rest of the day is free to explore the ship’s facilities and settle in. Throughout your cruise, when your ship comes into port, there will a range of excursions available to help you explore each destination. These excursions are at your own expense and are bookable on your cruise reservation.
DAY 16- Kaohsiung
Welcome to Taiwan! Dock in the port of Kaohsiung, Taiwan’s second largest city and largest port. Although modern at first glance, there is plenty of culture to explore here, in fact, it is considered Taiwan’s cultural hotspot, and has plenty of excellent museums, waterside parks and cafes to discover.
DAY 17- Taipei (Keelung)
Pause at the port of Keelung which gives easy access to Taiwan’s capital, Taipei. A modern city full of a timeless culture that blends Chinese, Japanese, Southeast Asian and Western influences, spend the day soaring up to the heights of Taipei 101 and visiting must-sees like the Mengjia Longshang Temple and Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall.
DAY 18- Miyakojima
Hello Japan! Dock at Miyakojima, one of Japan’s tropical Okinawa islands. You could relax on one of the white sand beaches, discover some of Japan’s best diving and snorkelling spots or learn more about the region’s unique cultural traditions.
DAY 19- At Sea
Spend these days at sea making the most of the Norwegian Jade’s excellent range of facilities and activities. Try the different restaurants, watch live performances featuring a talented cast of performers and musicians or browse the shopping boutiques for souvenirs.
DAY 20- Nagasaki
Nagasaki is best known for the events of the 9th of August 1945 but there is so much more to it. Backed by rolling hills and forested islands, with unspoilt beaches, European-style architecture, and ancient roots, it is a delight to explore.
DAY 21- Kagoshima
Today’s port of call is the sunny city of Kagoshima, nestled at the foot of Sakurajima Volcano. While the city itself has historic castles and traditional gardens to explore, there are also volcanic hot springs to soak in and delicious local food to try.
DAY 22- Hiroshima
Arrive at Hiroshima. The first city in the world to feel the power of the atomic bomb in 1945, Hiroshima has emerged for the ashes as a cosmopolitan and peaceful place. Consider visiting the tranquil Peace Park to learn about and reflect on the past.
DAY 23- Kochi
Port at Kochi. A surfer hang out with a UNESCO Global Geopark coastline, plentiful great outdoors and a magnificent 400 year old castle, Kochi is a wonderful place to while away a day.
DAY 24- Kyoto
Arrive in Osaka, the closest port to the timeless city of Kyoto, Japan’s capital for over 1,000 years and a treasure trove of history and culture. Spend the day exploring among ancient architecture, soaking up a rich, age-old culture or sampling some of the city’s culinary delights.
DAY 25- Mount Fuji
Port at Shimizu, a city of medieval castle ruins, ancient pine groves and traditional gardens. Here, you are ideally located for viewing Mount Fuji or exploring the series of fascinating cultural sights around its base.
DAY 26- Arrive in Tokyo
Bid farewell to the Norwegian Jade. Met by a guide, you will be transferred to your hotel in Tokyo where the rest of the day is at leisure.
DAY 27- Discover in Tokyo
Embark on a full day exploration of Tokyo, start at vibrant Sensoji, the city’s oldest temple before taking a stroll down Nakamise Shopping Street to browse the souvenirs and locals snack foods. Then, ascend the Tokyo Skytree for panoramic views over the city. Enjoy a sushi making masterclass and dine on your creations for lunch. Later, wander through the Imperial Palace Gardens then explore Meiji Jingu Shrine, a Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji, then taste local treats at Takeshita Street and stop for a photo at Shibuya Crossing.
DAY 28- Fly Tokyo to Ireland
Any time before your flight is at leisure. Fly to Ireland , arriving either the same day or the following day.
