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 finding out more about 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 nature 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 nature 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. The pagoda-style Karatsu Castle* is one of the most beautiful in Japan. Its splendid garden will show you the power of the Ogasawara clan from the 17th century - whether you're exploring on your own or on a group excursion.

The picturesque coastal landscapes of the sacred island of Miyajima, which you will explore from Hiroshima, have inspired both art and literature. 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 represents a very eventful period in modern history, as the witness to global history* excursion will reveal. It will touch on the tragic events of 1945 and take you to the Peace Memorial Park, designed by star architect Kenzo Tange.

The spa city of Beppu demonstrates how bathing rituals shape the culture. Even the samurai 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 nature charts a course for the Oki Islands through the Kanmon Straits. The millions of years of geology and the remote location have created a very special ecosystem here, characterised by red rock formations and green vegetation. Enjoy the changing views of the Sea of Japan from the 257 m (843 ft) tall Matengai Cliff on a hike along the Kuniga Coast*.

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 Kenroku-en Garden*, which perfectly combines a spacious setting with 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.

By contrast, the barrel-like boats of Sado Island look like rice bowls. In charming Ogi, the rhythm of Japan comes to life not through the beat of oars, but with a traditional taiko drumming class*. The mines of the gold island of Sado* tell of how a former place of exile became one of the most productive sources of precious metals.

Follow the footsteps of the samurai* in Akita in the far north of Japan. Or study the symbiosis of the landscape and the mystical Namahage culture on a flight to the Oga Peninsula*. The northern island of Hokkaido is also a natural beauty.

From Hakodate, your attention turns to the volcano, birds and vegetation of Onuma Quasi-National Park*. At the end of your route, Buddha's wisdom will ring true: it is better to travel well than to arrive.