When you cruise from Shanghai, check the essential items off the to-do list: See the classical architecture of the Bund neighborhood and walk among the smell of tea and incense in the fortified Old City. Then, if you have extra time, see the nearby Qibao Ancient Town — check out the pagoda-like bell tower, see Qibao Template (it dates back to the 900s) and snap pics of the photogenic bridges and buildings along the Puhui River.

A small series of sub-tropical islands just off Japans mainland, Okinawa is home to untouched beaches perfect for a picnic or a splash in the blue water, as well as old castles harkening back to ages past. From Nakagusuku, the riches of the regions main island, Okinawa Honto, are right at your fingertips. Cruise to Okinawa and check out the Nakagusuku Castle ruins, where you can see austere stone courtyards dating back to the 14th century. Experience the rough cliffs and pristine blue waters of Cape Manzamo to the north, or head to Naha and see Shuri Castle, a reconstruction of the Ryuku Kingdoms most important palace from the 1400s to the 1800s.

When you cruise from Shanghai, check the essential items off the to-do list: See the classical architecture of the Bund neighborhood and walk among the smell of tea and incense in the fortified Old City. Then, if you have extra time, see the nearby Qibao Ancient Town — check out the pagoda-like bell tower, see Qibao Template (it dates back to the 900s) and snap pics of the photogenic bridges and buildings along the Puhui River.