Far East Cruises – Iconic Asian Routes

Explore The Exotic Far East

Far East cruises are all about variety: one itinerary might pair neon-lit cityscapes with peaceful temple gardens, while another focuses on island-hopping and coastal food markets. You’ll find sailings here from major mainstream cruise lines through to more destination-led brands, with routes that often concentrate on Japan, Singapore, Hong Kong and parts of China.

If you’re weighing up a far east cruise for the first time, think about how you like to travel. Big-ship cruising suits travellers who want plenty happening onboard between ports, while smaller ships can be brilliant for a slower pace and longer stays. Either way, Cruise1st can help you compare the best dates, routes and onboard styles to match your holiday wishlist.

Planning to cruise Far East with a longer itinerary? These sailings are ideal for travellers who want a proper deep-dive into the region, with enough time to enjoy sea days, settle into ship life, and still tick off bucket-list cities and lesser-known ports.

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Top harbours in the Far East

• Singapore – A slick, easy embarkation city with famous sights close to the port. It’s perfect for arriving a day early to explore Marina Bay, Gardens by the Bay, and the hawker centres for satay and laksa.
• Hong Kong – Arrive to a skyline that looks like it was designed for postcards. A classic day here includes the Star Ferry, Victoria Peak, and street-food stops in Kowloon.
• Tokyo and Yokohama – Big-city energy with a surprising calm side. Think Senso-ji in Asakusa, a sushi lunch around the outer market area, and an evening in Shibuya when the lights come on.
• Osaka – A foodie favourite. Dotonbori’s neon signs, okonomiyaki and takoyaki stalls, plus easy access to Kyoto for temples, gardens and traditional streets.
• Hiroshima – Moving history at the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, paired with excellent local food (Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki is a must-try).
• Nagasaki – A port with layered history, scenic viewpoints and cultural sites, often paired with excellent coastal scenery as you sail in and out.
• Kanazawa – A favourite for elegant gardens and traditional neighbourhoods. Kenrokuen Garden and the old geisha districts are well worth the time.
• Kagoshima – Great for views of Sakurajima volcano and regional specialities, with a relaxed, sunny southern feel.
• Shanghai – A striking contrast of old and new: The Bund’s waterfront skyline, classical gardens, and buzzing modern districts.

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Top Attractions and Activities in the Far East

• Forbidden City, Beijing – Walk through the imperial palace complex of the Ming and Qing dynasties.
• Mount Fuji, Japan – View Japan’s iconic peak from Lake Kawaguchi.
• Victoria Peak, Hong Kong – Ride the Peak Tram for skyline views.
• Angkor Thom, Cambodia – See the smiling faces of Bayon Temple.
• Wat Arun, Bangkok – Admire the riverside Temple of Dawn.
• Jeju Island, South Korea – Explore Seongsan Ilchulbong volcanic crater.

The Far East blends ancient dynasties, sacred temples and dynamic modern cities.

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Customs & Culture in Far East

• Respectful Greetings in the Far East – In Japan and parts of China, bowing and calm, polite interaction are valued over loud enthusiasm.
• Street Food Culture – From Hong Kong’s egg waffles to Japanese takoyaki, local snacks are part of everyday life for visitors to try.
• Shopping Etiquette – In many Far Eastern ports, service is highly attentive; cashless payments are common, but small cash is still useful in markets.
• Sacred Spaces – Shrines, temples and memorial sites often have strict behaviour rules, including no flash photography.

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Seasonal Expectations & Weather

• Spring (March to May) – One of the best times to cruise the Far East. Japan, South Korea and parts of China sit around 12–24°C, with cherry blossom season peaking in late March and April. Golden Week (Japan, late April/early May) creates major travel surges and crowded attractions.
• Summer (June to August) – Hot and humid across much of the region, often 28–35°C. This is also typhoon season, especially around Japan, Taiwan and Hong Kong. Seas can become rough quickly when tropical systems develop.
• Autumn (September to November) – Cooler and clearer, around 18–27°C, with crisp evenings and lower humidity. Autumn foliage season in Japan (late October–November) is a major demand driver.
• Winter (December to February) – Colder in Japan and Korea (0–12°C in northern areas), while southern China remains milder. Sea conditions are generally stable, though winter winds can affect exposed coastlines.
• Seasonal Events – Lunar New Year (January/February) is the biggest holiday travel period across China and neighbouring regions.

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Alternative Regions to Consider

• Japan – If the Far East appeals for tradition-meets-modern contrasts, Japan provides Kyoto day trips from Osaka, Hiroshima’s Peace Park and Nagasaki’s hillside views.
• South Korea – Busan offers seafood markets, coastal temples and beach promenades, delivering vibrant urban energy with seaside scenery.
• Vietnam – For dramatic landscapes and history, ports near Halong Bay combine limestone karsts with Hanoi excursions.
• China (Shanghai & Beijing access) – If megacities intrigue you, Shanghai’s Bund and Beijing’s Great Wall excursions create headline port days.

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Top Asia Cruise Options

Asia itineraries by year and departure style

• Asia Cruises 2026 – Browse Asia routes by year.
• Asia Cruises 2027 – Future Asia itineraries to compare.
• Asia Cruises All Inclusive – Easy budgeting for longer adventures.
• Asia Cruises 2027 All Inclusive – All-inclusive options by year.
• Asia Cruises from Southampton – No-fly style long-haul journeys.
• Asia Cruises from the UK – Compare UK departure points.
• Asia Fly Cruises – Fly-cruise options that maximise time in-region.
• Asia Fly 2027 Cruises – Fly-cruise browsing by year.
• Princess Asia Cruises – A popular choice for comfortable, classic cruising.

Southeast Asia options

• Southeast Asia 2026 Cruises – Browse Southeast Asia routes by year.
• Southeast Asia, From Southampton – Longer sailings with UK departures.
• Southeast Asia, From UK – Compare UK departure options.

Key regions and planning pages

• Asia – Start broad and explore the full range of Asian cruise routes.
• East Asia – Ideal for travellers focusing on Japan and nearby highlights.
• Southeast Asia – Great for a warm-weather mix of cities and islands.
• Middle East – A tempting alternative for winter sun and modern ports.
• China – Explore China-led cruise options and port ideas.

Singapore and cruise routes from Singapore

• Singapore Cruises – A popular embarkation point with big city sights.
• Singapore, Singapore – Port guide inspiration for pre- and post-cruise stays.
• Cruises from Singapore to Australia – A classic long-haul route with serious holiday feel.
• Asia Cruise Tour Packages – Combine cruising with extra time on land.

Hong Kong and China ports

• Hong Kong Cruises – Sailings featuring one of the world’s great skylines.
• Shanghai, China – A striking city stop with old-and-new contrasts.
• Sanya, China – A warm-weather coastal call for beach lovers.

Japan cruise pages and ways to sail

• Japan Cruises – Start here if Japan is your main focus.
• Japan Cruises 2026 – Browse Japan sailings by year.
• Japan Cruises 2026 from Tokyo – A strong option for city-led itineraries.
• Japan Cruises 2027 – Plan ahead for future Japan routes.
• Japan Cruises 2027 from Tokyo – Another great way to start with Tokyo time built in.
• Japan Cruises from Southampton – For travellers who prefer a longer, no-fly style journey.
• Japan Cruises from the UK – Compare UK departure options.
• Japan Fly Cruises – Fly-cruise options that maximise time in Japan.
• Princess Japan Cruises – A popular choice for comfortable, polished Japan itineraries.
• Royal Caribbean Japan Cruises 2026 – Japan routes with big-ship energy.
• Royal Caribbean Japan Cruises 2027 – Future options for Royal Caribbean in Japan.

Japan port guides and standout calls

• Tokyo, Japan – Big-city highlights, temples and shopping districts.
• Yokohama (Tokyo), Japan – A common cruise gateway to Tokyo experiences.
• Osaka, Japan – Food streets, river walks and easy access to Kyoto.
• Kyoto, Japan – Classic culture and temple visits from nearby ports.
• Kobe, Japan – A smart port city with great dining and day-trip potential.
• Hiroshima, Japan – Powerful history and memorable local cuisine.
• Nagasaki, Japan – A scenic harbour with layered heritage.
• Kagoshima, Japan – Volcano views and southern charm.
• Kanazawa, Japan – Gardens, traditional streets and crafts.
• Nagoya, Japan – A modern city stop with culture and shopping.
• Hakodate, Japan – A favourite for harbour views and local markets.
• Aomori, Japan – Northern Japan scenery and seasonal charm.
• Akita, Japan – A quieter call for travellers who like something different.
• Niigata, Japan – A coastal stop often paired with regional flavours.
• Shimizu, Japan – A classic gateway for views linked to Mount Fuji days.
• Kochi, Japan – Easy-going coastal culture and scenery.
• Toba, Japan – A coastal call that suits slower sightseeing.
• Fushiki-Toyama, Japan – Another Toyama-area gateway port.
• Tsuruga, Japan – A smaller-scale port with easy exploration.
• Maizuru, Japan – A useful jumping-off point for regional highlights.
• Wakayama, Japan – Coastal views and culture-focused excursions.
• Matsuyama, Japan – Known for traditional atmosphere and local sights.
• Kumamoto, Japan – A strong choice for history-led days ashore.
• Kitakyushu, Japan – A port that pairs well with city exploration.
• Fukuoka, Japan – Great food and a lively city feel.
• Hakata (Fukuoka), Japan – Another gateway for Fukuoka experiences.
• Sasebo, Japan – A scenic port day with relaxed pacing.
• Sakaiminato, Japan – A smaller call that suits easy exploration.
• Sakata, Japan – A quieter stop with coastal character.
• Kushiro, Japan – Northern scenery and a different side of Japan.
• Otaru, Japan – A charming port with an easy day-trip feel.
• Sapporo, Japan – A city-led option for travellers who want variety.
• Beppu, Japan – Famous for hot springs and relaxing excursions.
• Ishigaki, Japan – An island stop with beach potential.
• Miyako-jima, Japan – Clear waters and island atmosphere.
• Naha (Okinawa), Japan – Great for island culture and coastal scenery.
• Okinawa, Japan – Browse Okinawa-focused port inspiration.
• Omaezaki, Japan – A smaller port call for a calmer day ashore.
• Hitachinaka, Japan – A different style of Japan port stop.
• Amami (Amami Islands), Japan – Island-hopping flavour in Japan.
• Miyazaki (Aburatsu), Japan – A smaller call with a sunny southern feel.
• Wakayama, Japan – A scenic coastal gateway port.

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FAQs about Far East cruises

Which destinations are best for first-timers?

If it’s your first time, routes that include Singapore, Hong Kong and Tokyo (or Yokohama) are a brilliant introduction. They’re easy to explore, packed with landmarks, and offer a memorable mix of modern city life and cultural sights.

Do I need visas for a far east cruise?

Visa needs depend on your itinerary and passport, and they can differ from port to port. We recommend checking requirements as soon as you choose a sailing, then confirming again closer to departure in case rules change.

What should I pack?

Bring comfortable walking shoes for long city days, light layers for changeable evenings, and one smarter outfit for onboard dining. If you’re visiting temples or heritage sites, pack something that covers shoulders and knees for respectful entry.

How long do I need to do it properly?

For a true “wow” experience, longer itineraries are ideal, especially if you want multiple Japanese ports plus time in Singapore or Hong Kong. If you’re limited on time, choose a route that focuses on one main country and adds a couple of contrasting city ports.

Is it better to fly or sail from the UK?

Fly-cruise options suit travellers who want to maximise time in the region. UK departures can be fantastic if you like the idea of a longer voyage with sea days and a gradual build-up to the destination. Cruise1st can help you compare both styles based on your holiday time and budget.

What destinations are included in Far East cruises?

Typically Japan, China (when included), South Korea, Hong Kong and Taiwan, depending on route.

What’s the best time for a Far East cruise?

Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are best for comfortable temperatures.

Do Far East cruises include overnight stays in Hong Kong or Tokyo?

Some do, especially on longer itineraries or premium cruise lines.

Are Far East cruises suitable for first-time Asia travellers?

Yes — cruising reduces travel stress, and ports like Hong Kong and Singapore are very easy to navigate.

Do Far East cruises require visas?

Visa requirements vary widely by itinerary, so you must check each country individually before sailing.

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Looking to uncover the wonders of the Far East? Call our Cruise Specialists and let us help you find your perfect Far East cruise.