This gleaming city in the midst of natural splendor has its origins in a saloon built for miners on their way to the Yukon. Walk the cobblestone streets of Gastown for a sense of Vancouver’s frontier history in what’s become one of the city’s most vibrant and unique areas. Explore the second largest Chinatown in North America on your way to Stanley Park, home to soaring old-growth trees and a spectacular collection of First Nation totem poles. Breathtaking views abound: Travel to ‘Vancouver’s Peak’ on the Grouse Mountain skyride and walk the Capilano Suspension Bridge for a treetop adventure.

Ketchikan, on the southwest side of Revillagigedo Island, grew up around salmon canneries and sawmills. Ketchikan’s name supposedly comes from the native term “Katch Kanna”, which roughly translates: “spread wings of a thundering eagle.” At one time Ketchikan was proclaimed the “Salmon Capital of the World.” An outstanding collection of totem poles make a visit to Ketchikan essential for anyone interested in Native art. Travelers flock to Ketchikan for their first look at the North Country, and are rarely disappointed.

Founded by Russian fur traders as New Archangel in 1799, Sitka was the historic center of Russia’s Alaskan empire. The Russian flag was replaced by the Stars and Stripes when the United States purchased the Alaska territory in 1867. Today, picturesque Sitka, is known for its fishing industry, an annual summer classical music festival and, of course, its many historic visitor attractions. On a clear day Sitka, the only city in southeast Alaska that actually fronts the Pacific Ocean, rivals Juneau for the sheer beauty of its surroundings.

Keep your binoculars handy to spot seals, otters and whales. Whittier is the gateway to Prince William Sound, where you can experience incredible glacier cruises and kayak in serene waters. Its unique “one-way-in” tunnel adds to the adventure. The town also provides access to nearby hiking trails and a fascinating WWII history, making it a perfect stop for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

About 30 miles off the southeast coast of the Alaskan peninsula is Kodiak, encompassing around 5,000 square miles of dense forests, jagged peaks and bays teeming with wildlife and natural beauty. Nicknamed “Alaska’s Emerald Isle” by its residents, is described as a place to leave civilization behind as you brave the sometimes unrelenting elements to truly rediscover nature in its purest state. Endless outdoor activities range from hiking through the forests to watching the Kodiak bears foraging for food. Fishing enthusiasts find Kodiak Island offers great salmon, halibut and trout fishing.

Located along the 1,100-mile Aleutian Chain, the island/town of Unalaska is home to Dutch Harbor, a major commercial fishing port. Hike along trails walked for centuries by the Unangan people while watching for eagles soaring overhead. Visit the Museum of the Aleutians before doing some leisurely beachcombing. See remnants of Unalaska’s World War II history at a 134-acre site that includes gun mounts, bunkers and tunnels. (NOTE: Due to a lack of organized land touring infrastructure in this destination, shore excursions will not be available. We invite you to explore this port on your own.)

Nature, cuisine, samurai history, this city has a little bit of everything. Stroll down Jozenji-dori Avenue, a tree-lined street which perfectly symbolizes Sendai’s nickname: The City of Trees. Visit the giant Daikannon Statue, this Goddess of Mercy is one of the world’s tallest. Find groups of temples behind Sendai Station along ShinderaStreet, as well as in Kitayama. Find relaxation and peace at the shrines of Osaki Hachimangu and Rinno-ji Temple. Sendai is also famous for its cold Chinese noodles, miso and traditional sweets, visit the Asaichi Street Market to savor the flavors.

From Yokohama, travel to the world’s most dazzling city. Once the modest fishing village of Edo, modern Tokyo is a sprawling metropolis of unique neighborhoods. Choose from museums covering every aspect of Japanese history and culture. Visit the glorious Imperial Palace and Senso-ji temple in the ancient district of Asakusa. Dive into an urban food scene that rewards the intrepid. And, of course, snap a selfie in Shibuya Crossing. In Yokohama, bask in the city’s hospitality before visiting Japan’s largest Chinatown or the vast Sankeien Garden, where seventeen historical structures relocated from Kyoto, Kamakura and elsewhere enhance the magnificent landscapes.