Gems of China and Japan (with Tibet)

Save up to AU$13,295 per couple*

*T&Cs apply

Description

This extraordinary 22-day cruise journey offers a rich cultural tapestry across China, South Korea, and Japan, beginning with an immersive land tour through historic cities such as Beijing, Xi’an, Lhasa, and Chengdu, where ancient wonders like the Great Wall, Terra Cotta Warriors, and Potala Palace await. From Tianjin, the voyage continues by sea, weaving through coastal gems like Dalian, Qingdao, and Jeju, before crossing to Japan. There, you’ll explore vibrant cities including Hiroshima, Osaka, and Tokyo, as well as serene natural landscapes in Miyazaki, Kochi, and Shimizu. Along the way, enjoy a blend of historical landmarks, spiritual heritage, breathtaking scenery, and culinary delights, all while experiencing the comfort and luxury of life on board.

Pricing

Veranda Stateroom

From 

AU$13,295*

*Pricing based on 7 Nov 2025 departure, in AUD, per person, twin share

Itinerary Details

Day 1: Beijing, China
Arrive in Beijing and check into your hotel. With a history spanning over 3,000 years, Beijing was once a grand imperial capital and now serves as China’s political and cultural heart. Iconic landmarks such as the Forbidden City and the Great Wall reflect its imperial past, while the maze-like *hutongs* offer a glimpse into traditional local life. Enjoy the evening at your leisure.

Day 2: Xi’an, China
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Xi’an, a city that once served as China’s capital through 12 imperial dynasties. At the end of the Silk Road, Xi’an flourished as one of the world’s largest and richest cities. Highlights include its impressive city wall and the discovery site of the famed Terra Cotta Warriors. Spend the evening relaxing at your hotel.

Day 3: Xi’an, China 
Uncover Xi’an’s cultural richness at the Shaanxi History Museum, home to more than 370,000 artefacts. Visit the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, a revered Buddhist landmark, and the Great Mosque, a unique blend of Islamic and Chinese architectural styles.

Day 4: Lhasa, Tibet
Fly to Lhasa, Tibet’s spiritual capital, nestled high on the Tibetan Plateau. Surrounded by the dramatic peaks of the Himalayas and tranquil alpine lakes such as Yamdrok and Namtso, Lhasa offers both spiritual serenity and natural beauty. Evening at leisure.

Day 5: Lhasa, Tibet
Visit Jokhang Temple, Tibet’s most sacred religious site and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the 7th century, it houses the revered statue of Jowo Shakyamuni and showcases a fusion of Tibetan, Nepalese and Indian design.

Day 6: Lhasa, Tibet  
Explore the magnificent Potala Palace, an iconic symbol of Tibetan Buddhism and former winter residence of the Dalai Lama. Perched on Red Hill, this UNESCO-listed masterpiece is an extraordinary example of Tibetan and Han Chinese architecture.

Day 7: Chengdu, China 
Fly to Chengdu, the lively capital of Sichuan Province. With a history stretching back over 2,000 years, the city is known for its ancient silk trade, the invention of paper money, and its laid-back teahouse culture. Evening free to unwind.

Day 8: Beijing (Tianjin), China  
Fly to Tianjin, a bustling port city that serves as the maritime gateway to Beijing. Strategically located along the Grand Canal, it has a rich history as a global trading hub. Savour local specialities like the “Eight Great Bowls” before boarding your ship and settling into your stateroom.

Day 9: Dalian, China  
Dalian is known for its scenic coastline, green spaces and relaxed atmosphere. Its strategic position has drawn foreign powers over the years, leaving behind an intriguing architectural legacy from Russian, British and Japanese influences.

Day 10: Qingdao, China  
Famed for its crisp sea air and German colonial architecture, Qingdao is a coastal gem with a fascinating past. Explore the Ba Da Guan district and enjoy the local beer culture, a legacy of its time under German rule.

Day 11: Yellow Sea (At Sea)
Sail across the historic Yellow Sea, once the battleground of the Russo-Japanese War. Take advantage of the ship’s amenities—perhaps a walk around the Promenade Deck or a workout in the Fitness Centre.

Day 12: Shanghai, China  
China’s largest city, Shanghai is a modern metropolis with a rich cultural heritage. Discover the colonial-era buildings along the Bund, stroll through the historic old quarter, or admire ancient art at the Shanghai Museum.

Day 13: East China Sea (At Sea)
Cruise the East China Sea, an important route for regional trade and cultural exchange. On board, enjoy exquisite cuisine—from Norwegian dishes at Mamsen’s to Italian classics at Manfredi’s.

Day 14: Jeju, South Korea 
Jeju Island, with its mild climate and natural wonders, is a favourite holiday spot. Visit volcanic beaches, waterfalls, and meet the legendary *haenyeo*—female divers who harvest seafood using traditional free-diving methods.

Day 15: Korea Strait (At Sea)  
Cross the Korea Strait, once a pathway for Buddhism’s spread to Japan and now a major maritime trade route. Unwind with a good book in the ship’s Library or enjoy a swim beneath the retractable roof at the Main Pool.

Day 16: Hiroshima, Japan 
Explore Hiroshima’s rich history, including the rebuilt Hiroshima Castle, originally constructed in the late 1500s. Today it houses a museum showcasing the city’s samurai and cultural legacy.

Day 17: Miyazaki, Japan  
Located on Kyushu’s sun-soaked coast, Miyazaki is steeped in myth and history. Near the spectacular Takachiho Gorge lies the setting of ancient legends of Japan’s creation. The region is also known for its world-class Wagyu beef.

Day 18: Kochi, Japan  
Visit Kochi, where nature and history coexist beautifully. Tour Kochi Castle, one of Japan’s few original castles, and explore the dramatic coastline of Muroto Geopark. Try the local dish *katsuo tataki*—lightly seared bonito fish.

Day 19: Osaka, Japan  
Set at the mouth of the Yodo River, Osaka flourished as a merchant hub and became known as “the nation’s kitchen.” Visit historical landmarks like the Sumiyoshi Grand Shrine, dedicated to the deities of prosperity and seafaring.

Day 20: Osaka, Japan  
Experience Osaka’s dynamic street food culture. From *takoyaki* (octopus balls) to *okonomiyaki* (a savoury pancake with a variety of fillings), the city lives up to its reputation for indulgent eating—aptly described by the word *kuidaore*.

Day 21: Shimizu, Japan  
Shimizu, located on Suruga Bay, offers magnificent views of Mt. Fuji and a deep-rooted tea culture. Visit Kunōzan Tōshō-gū, Japan’s oldest Shinto shrine, built in honour of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the shogun who unified Japan.

Day 22: Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan  
Disembark in Yokohama and bid farewell to fellow travellers. You may wish to extend your stay to explore more of Tokyo’s vibrant blend of tradition and modernity.

What's Included

• Private veranda stateroom with king-size bed  
• Shore excursions in every port 
• Onboard meals and beverages including wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner 
• Choice of 8 dining venues (no charge for specialty dining) 
• Complimentary 24-hour room service 
• Specialty coffee, tea and bottled water 
• Mini-bar with soft drinks, water and snacks, replenished daily 
• Access to top-rated Nordic spa facilities including sauna, hydrotherapy & Snow Grotto, plus state-of-the-art fitness centre 
• Unlimited Wi-Fi 
• Lectures on or performances of music, art, cooking, dance and history 
• Included onboard gratuities 
• All port charges & govt taxes 

Terms and Conditions

*Conditions apply. Prices are per person, in Australian dollars, for new bookings, based on double occupancy, subject to availability, include all advertised discounts, and are correct as of 02 April 2025. A refundable deposit (in the form of a future cruise voucher less a $100 cancellation fee) is specified at the time of booking. Price based on the following 2025 departure dates: 2025 Best of China 5 September, 2025 Wonders of China 19 September, Classic China Discovery 5 September, Coastal Jewels of China 5 September, Gems of China & Japan 7 November, Jewels of Japan & China 14 November, Pearls of Japan & China 31 October, Bangkok, Bali & Beyond 2 November, Far Eastern Horizons 4 October, Komodo & the Australian Coast 14 November, North Pacific Crossing 9 September, Southeast Asia & Hong Kong 19 October. Save up to 30% Ocean cruise saving is based on 2025 Best of China 03 October 2025 departure. All offers are valid on new bookings only made from 1 April 2025 until 30 June 2025.

Prices are in NZD (unless specified otherwise) per person, in complete twin/double share accommodation (or single occupancy or family share where specified), valid for new bookings only, subject to availability. Offers are capacity-controlled and may be reduced, changed, extended or withdrawn at any time, without notice. Unless specified, airfares (and often transfers) are additional. Pricing variations may occur due to fluctuations in currency exchange rates. Prices include savings/discounts where applicable and all taxes/charges (which are subject to change). Offers valid for travel originating in New Zealand only. Required deposit amounts and deposit/final payment dates vary. Deposits may or may not be refundable. Amendment and cancellation fees apply. All products and itineraries are subject to change at the discretion of the supplier. Prices are based on cash, Eftpos, or Direct Credit payment only. We accept all major credit cards, however, processing fees apply. World Travellers reserve the right to correct any errors or omissions at any time. To be read in conjunction with the booking terms and conditions applicable to Viking. Travel documents & vaccination requirements are the responsibility of the individual traveller. Professional service fees may apply. Airfares & transfers are additional (unless specified otherwise). Some staterooms are based on a 'guarantee' stateroom. The exact stateroom grade, number and location on the ship will be allocated at the discretion of the cruise line. Some staterooms have obstructed views.