For those wishing to delve into the history, culture and cuisine of the Far East, the new ‘Jewels of Japan and China’ voyages explore iconic destinations in China, including Shanghai, Beijing, Xi’an and Osaka, Japan.
The itineraries highlight rarely seen destinations and ports in China to which only Viking has access.
Each voyage offers guests immersive destination-focused experiences, insightful lectures and regionally inspired cuisine.
The new itineraries will operate on the Viking Yi Dun, formerly the Viking Sun, a sister ship featuring the same award-winning design and service as all other ocean ships in the fleet.
On this voyage guests have exclusive access to seldom-seen ports and learn more about the deep experience of travelling to this captivating nation.
For more than 15 years ‘Viking Rivers’ brought curious travellers to China. In addition to sailing the mighty Yangtze River guests visited Beijing, Shanghai and Xi’an and many other places in this fascinating country.
Viking’s Executive Vice President of Product, Karine Hagen said “Beyond visiting historic and iconic sites we shared a bit of real-life China experiences with our guests, meeting local children in schools that we sponsor along the Yangtze River and visiting the markets of Shanghai, the hutongs of Beijing and the typical homes of Tibetan families.”
“Our guests enjoyed meals with locals and sharing kitchen table stories and laughs and it is these personal contacts which, in my experience at least, create the most lasting travel memories.”
Ms Hagan said the Chinese itinerary was one of her personal favourites which is why she was particularly pleased when Viking again offered China as a destination to guests.
But instead of sailing through the heartland of China on a river, guests now sail along the coastline of China on the Viking Yi Dun.
She said, “This new itinerary is the first time international travellers get to explore some of these rarely seen Chinese destinations by ship so it’s quite a historical opportunity.”
After holding the launch of the inaugural China Discovery itinerary in Shanghai in 2024 both Ms Hagan and her father Viking Founder and Chairman Torstein Hagen agree they can’t wait to get back.
The new itineraries in China and Japan offer the guests the opportunity to explore the Viking way, so in addition to included shore excursions in every port they have options that offer immersive experiences to introduce guests to the lovely people, the fascinating history and the ancient as well as the modern culture of China.
“And for 2025 I’m delighted to announce that we are expanding our China program to offer new voyages that also include Japan.”
Discover the natural beauty of Jeju and Miyazaki and take in views of Mt. Fuji in Shimizu with overnight stays in Hiroshima and Osaka let you further explore Japan’s intriguing cities.
Guests have the opportunity to experience the German heritage of Qingdao, marvel at Shanghai, a city that blends tradition and modernity.
Ms Hagen said as one of Viking sister ships, the Yi Dun offers the same award winning Scandinavian design and impeccable service as all the other ocean ships in the fleet so guests will be exploring in the utmost comfort.
With more than 50 ethnic groups, more than 300 languages spoken and 4000 years of history, China has one of the richest cultures in the world and Ms Hagen said they are delighted to be able to again offer privileged access to this magnificent country.
The fifteen day ‘Jewels of Japan and China’ voyage from Tokyo to Beijing (or vice versa) is priced from $6,295 per person in a Veranda Stateroom, with savings of up to $12,200 per couple on select October to November 2025 sailings. (Available to book now through 30 June 2025 or until sold out.)
Viking’s ocean vessels are intimate yet sophisticated and custom-designed with fewer than 1,000 guests and all veranda staterooms, no kids, no casinos, and everything you need to be included, they focus on delivering meaningful experiences tailored to you.
To find out more and join this once in a lifetime adventure, please visit viking.com or phone 138 747.
