Top 10 Asia Shore Excursions
Taking a cruise to Asia offers far more than a holiday, as the Far East is a land of intrigue and enchanted secrets. Home to some of the most incredible sights in the world, the magical continent of Asia boasts a range of different cultures, exotic cuisine, and rule-breaking architecture. With so much to do and see, shore excursions are a great way you for you to explore more and more!
1. Taj Mahal, Agra, India
The Taj Mahal is an undeniably magnificent piece of architecture, which has rightly earned a place on most lists of 'must-see' places around the world. Built by Shah Jahan in 1632, the building was designed to be a luxurious mausoleum to pay homage to Mumtaz Mahal - Jahan's wife who died during childbirth. In fact her body does not rest here, but the commanding building dominates many a tour itinerary nonetheless. Proudly stood in the central city of Agra, a cruise excursion here will involve some land travel, but the astonishing views on arrival are definitely worth it.
See the Taj Mahal with Princess Cruises. Have a look through all cruises to Asia with Princess Cruises. 2. City Tour, Hong Kong
A city tour of Hong Kong Island is a must if your cruise stops here, as it is one of the most colourful and striking cities in the world. Make yourself comfortable in a relaxed, air-conditioned coach, as a tour guide narrates your journey around this historical city. You will see Hong Kong’s famous landmarks including The Peak, Man Mo Temple, Golden Bauhinia Square, and Repulse Bay. Be sure to take a camera as the tour will make various stops at the top attractions.
Royal Caribbean can show you the sights of Hong Kong. Have a look at all Royal Caribbean cruises to Asia. 3. Monkey Beach, Penang
Monkey Beach is situated in the beautiful Penang National Park, and is only accessible by boat or hiking trial. Once you arrive to this beautiful beach, you can let the relaxation begin as you have the whole day to yourself. Surrounded by clear blue water, and under the canopy of coconut palms, this island is home to the amusing long-tail macaque monkeys. They will entertain you as you take in the sights, catch some rays, and enjoy a traditional lunch. A perfect excursion for a relaxing way to experience a Malaysian beach day.
Cunard offer this fun excursion. See all Cunard cruises in Asia. 4. Snorkel at Phi Phi Island, Phuket
Phi Phi Island is one of the most beautiful, picturesque islands in the world, and home to some of the best snorkelling. It has been said that many people only go to Thailand's Phuket to visit Phi Phi Island. You can enjoy the beach and amazing views before grabbing your snorkelling equipment to swim with a variety of stunning marine life. Boasting one of the world’s most abundant coral reef systems, the snorkelling sights you will see are astounding.
Snorkel at Phi Phi Island with Celebrity Cruises. Browse through all Asia cruises with Celebrity Cruises. 5. Night Safari, Singapore
The Night Safari is the world’s first nocturnal zoo, and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Singapore. This excursion offers an exciting experience for you to get up close to some of Asia’s most remarkable wildlife. As you travel through a jungle lined with thick vegetation, you will be amazed by your sightings of various wild animals roaming around freely. At the end of the tour you will normally have time to walk around the purpose-built jungle trails for an even closer encounter with the animals.
P&O Cruises can provide this super experience. Have a look through all P&O cruises to Asia. 6. Chinese Minority Village, Sanya, China
Immerse yourself in the different cultures and traditions that can be found all over China, and visit this small village in the Hainan Province. The residents perform an interesting and beautiful culture show where you will learn about their way of life through music and dance. As well as this, lunch will consist of traditional Hainan style cuisine. Being such a vast country, China is home to a number of different cultures – in fact there are over 50 ethnic groups comprising the population. To visit a village like this will undoubtedly enable you to get to know the local way of life.
Visit the Chinese Minority Village with Cunard. See all Asia cruises with Cunard. 7. Asakusa Tour, Tokyo, Japan
Most people know Tokyo as a hyper-modern city of glamour and lights, but it also has a rich and interesting history that can be seen in various parts. This fascinating excursion takes you to an area known as Asakusa, where relics of old-time Tokyo can be found around every corner. The most well-known of these is Sensoji Buddhist temple, which was built back in the 7th century. Explore the temple and surrounding areas to get to know historic Japan, and get souvenirs to remember your trip from the main shopping street – Nakamise.
See Asakusa with Costa Cruises. Browse through cruises in Asia with Costa Cruises. 8. The Red River Delta Tour, Vietnam
Board a coach for a journey through the rural areas of the Red River Delta in northern Vietnam. This excursion gives you the opportunity to experience a taste of real life in the country, stopping to wander through different local villages. One of the most fascinating features is walking through the small lanes which lead to a village renowned for its betel nut production. A very informative, and fun tour that will enhance your knowledge of this fascinating area, and leave you with a feeling of admiration.
Holland America Line offer this great opportunity. Take a look at Asia cruises with Holland America Line. 9. Great Wall of China, Beijing, China
It is thought that construction of this incredible fortification began as far back as the 7th century BC, with a number of rulers enhancing it during different periods of history. The best preserved part of the wall is around 5,500 miles long, and was built between 1368 and 1644, during the Ming dynasty. See the Huangyaguan part of the wall, around 3 hours drive from Beijing, and discover this incredible piece of Chinese history, that can only be fully appreciated in person.
Princess Cruises offer the chance to see The Great Wall. See all Princess Cruises' cruise in Asia. 10. Hirosaki Castle, Aomori
Hirosaki Castle is a picturesque, triple moat structured Japanese castle set in the beautiful city of Hirosaki. The tower holds a lot of history, with walls covered in samurai swords, helmets, and armour from the past. The castle itself is surrounded by over 500,000 square meters of lush woods and trees - making it the perfect excursion for picture taking! You will have a narrated tour of the castle as well as a guided journey on the way to and from the ship. This excursion is one for those wanting to explore the more historic sights of Japan.
See Hirosaki Castle with Celebrity Cruises. Browse through Asia cruises with Celebrity Cruises.