Enter the fascinating Far East in South Korea. Our optional pre-cruise programmes enable you to start your experience by getting to know the metropolis of Seoul or tracing the footsteps of Korean history. From Busan, explore the relics of the old Silla dynasty in Gyeongju – a UNESCO World Heritage Site*, while the alternative coastal walk through Igidae Park* with its small suspension bridges reveals Korea’s close relationship with nature. The HANSEATIC inspiration will then set off along the Korea Strait. Further exciting experiences of the Far East await you in Japanese territorial waters.

Japan is just like a haiku, its traditional short-form poem: its connections only become evident with experience. Your cruise with the HANSEATIC inspiration will steer you in exactly the right direction to increase your understanding of Japan. Set a course for profound insights into Japanese culture and nature – for example in Karatsu, when you explore the centre of this coastal resort and its pine forests. Opt to explore on your own or take a group excursion to Karatsu Castle*: this pagoda-style castle is one of the most beautiful in Japan. Its splendid garden is testament to the power of the Ogasawara clan from the 17th century.

The picturesque coastal landscapes of the sacred island of Miyajima have inspired both art and literature. After landing, discover its allure: the Itsukushima Shrine is one of Japan’s most famous landmarks. At high tide, the famous red gate is reflected in the water, symbolising the ancient veneration of nature characteristic of Shintoism. Hiroshima symbolises a very eventful period in modern history – your exploration of the area will be shaped by memorials. The witness to global history* excursion will touch on the tragic events of 1945 and take you to the Peace Memorial Park, designed by star architect Kenzo Tange.

Follow in the footsteps of the samurai in the spa resort of Beppu. These warriors often asked for support from the deities while bathing in hot water. When you ease yourself into the hot thermal waters during your visit to an onsen*, you will also be able to partake in this relaxing tradition. The more than 60 stone Buddhas in Usuki*, made from lava and tuff around 1,000 years ago, are a special expression of Japan’s religion.

The HANSEATIC inspiration will leave the inland sea, passing through the Kanmon Straits between the main islands of Kyushu and Honshu, and back into the Sea of Japan. Hamada is located on the coast, against a backdrop of verdant hilly ridges. A premiere destination for Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, a gateway to a wondrous past for you. On a visit to the Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine*, explore the more than 400-year-old history of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Just like a “crane spreading its wings” – which is what the name of this harbour town means – your understanding of belief systems of the Far East will unfold in Maizuru. From here, you will travel to the spiritual centre of the country: Kyoto – the old imperial city* with its myriad temples and extravagantly decorated shrines. After your visit to the Golden Pavilion, you will admire Nijo Castle, or focus on the rich natural landscape: the Amanohashidate sandbar is as delicate as Japanese calligraphy. Enjoy a natural experience on the “bridge to heaven”* – walk through one of Japan’s most beautiful landscapes with around 8,000 pine trees and long sandy beaches.

Architectural charm is an inherent part of Kanazawa, with its old geisha and samurai houses and the famous Kenroku-en Garden* – the perfect combination of vastness and seclusion, craftsmanship and tradition. The historic villages of Shirakawa-go* will add to these aesthetic impressions with architectural masterpieces in the gassho-zukuri, or “folded hands”, style. The Eihei-ji Temple* comprises more than 60 different buildings. It is among the most important sites of Zen Buddhism, which is said to reveal the true nature of people and show things as they really are.

Religious beliefs also characterised the classic Noh theatre. Many Noh stages can be found on Sado Island. Just as exotic are the wooden “washtub boats” traditionally used by the fisherwomen of Sado*. Try them for yourself during a tour of the port.

Further north, impressive natural beauty reveals itself: close to Noshiro in the far north of Honshu, explore the green hinterland and the Shirakami-Sanchi beech forest*, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Also discover the tranquillity of the northern island of Hokkaido.

From Hakodate, visit Onuma Quasi-National Park* with its volcano, birds and rich vegetation. Return home enriched by your impressions – your questions about many aspects of Asia replaced with in-depth knowledge.