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古くからの土地と美しい自然がはぐくんだ伝統・伝承にひたる

Take in all the sights of Tokyo on a cruise to Japan. As the country’s capital city, Tokyo is Japan’s leading center of business and finance yet also boasts deep roots in history. In the heart of the city, a dense forest glade shrouds visitors from the bustle and houses the Meiji Shrine, its setting symbolizing the separation of the spiritual from the worldly. Nearby, surrounded by stone walls, park area and moats, stands the Imperial Palace. With the Tokyo Tower and Mt. Fuji in view, experience the harmony of modern and ancient on a cruisetour of Japan.

Highlights of Japan Cruisetours

日本の一番北に位置する島、北海道の海岸を回るマジカル・クルーズに出発しませんか。奈良の荘厳な東大寺と美しい春日大社を訪れてみましょう。地上350mのところに位置する東京スカイツリーの展望デッキからこの都市を眺めてみてください。金閣寺と二条城を訪れると、京都の息をのむほどの美しさが体験できます。

日本は対照について学べる場所です。見事な神社仏閣の頭上に摩天楼がそびえ立つ都会から一歩出ると、深い美しさに包まれた静寂な土地が広がっています。Neon-bright architecture and tranquil gardens vie for attention amid the colorful Harajuku district and traditional kimonos. As the No. 1 North American cruise line in Japan with the “Best Asia Itineraries † ,” you can be assured that Princess® will be your guide to the colors, cultures and flavors that define this exciting country.

† PORTHOLEマガジン

東京の文化体験で茶道、書道、日本の精神を学びましょう。通常の観光ルートから外れて、石垣島の海岸からほど近い伝統的な琉球の村が美しく維持されている竹富島を訪ねてみませんか。高知ではヘルメットとヘッドランプを装着して、国の天然記念物、龍河洞の自然の不思議を探検しましょう。鹿児島では17世紀の庭園を散歩し、薩摩藩島津家の歴史博物館で700年の歴史を振り返ってみましょう。

写真: 京都の仏教寺院

Princess Cruises is a proud partner of the  Japan National Tourism Organization .

Japan Cruise Departure Port

東京（横浜）発のクルーズ.

地球上で東京ほど愛しい過去を大切にしつつ未来をしっかり見据えている都市は、他にはないように思われます。興味深い建築から手入れの行き届いた庭園や神社仏閣まで、東京はいつでも喜びとインスピレーションを与えてくれます。東京最古の寺である浅草寺の不思議な伝説を聞いたり、伝統的な茶道プレゼンテーションで素晴らしい1碗をいただいたり、有名な富士箱根伊豆国立公園内で硫黄の温泉を見学したりしませんか。

Let Your Japan Cruise Journey Begin

ライフスタイル＆カルチャー.

大阪では、ユネスコ無形文化財に指定されている伝統的な文楽をお楽しみください。静岡市清水区では、枝編細工のバスケットを持って茶畑に出て茶摘みを体験しましょう。青森では温泉の健康効果と社交的な雰囲気を堪能してください。鹿児島の焼酎蔵を見学し、穀物と野菜が日本の薬酒・蒸留酒に変貌する過程を学びましょう。

写真: 東京の足湯温泉

日本の活火山であり、国内でもっとも人気の観光地でもある霊峰富士を一望にすると、その神聖さが体感できます。ゴジラ岩と伝説の生き物ナマハゲで有名な秋田県男鹿半島の雄大な景色をご堪能ください。Take in the sheer magnificence of Shiretoko Peninsula, an acclaimed  Condé Nast Traveler  7 Cruise Wonders of the World – it may just leave you breathless.

Festivals and unique experiences

Japan is a land of festivals and on select sailings you can experience the mesmerizing spectacle known as the Awa Odori Dance Festival in Tokushima, gaze in awe at the Kumano Grand Festival of fireworks, or get an up-close look at the exquisite parade floats used in Aomori’s annual Nebuta festival.

写真: 青森のねぶた祭

日本クルーズは船上も充実

「アジアにおけるベストクルーズライン」賞に輝いたプリンセス®で行く日本への旅では、デスティネーションに負けないほど素晴らしい旅を体験できます。日本クルーズは、乗船した瞬間から日本の様々な景色、音、味を感じ取ることができます。400年の歴史を持つ落語をお楽しみください。夜にはカラオケを歌い、民族舞踊を見れば、日本の文化が理解できることでしょう。ムービーズ・アンダー・ザ・スターズ®では日本関連の映画をご覧いただけます。ヌードル・バーで美味しい地元の料理を食べたり、寿司に舌鼓を打ったりしませんか。日本のウィスキー、酒、焼酎などの酒類もお試しください。 †

写真: 船上のエンターテイメントに出演する日本の歌手たち

† 一部の旅程で提供されています。

ランドマーク＆文化的傑作

日本の重要文化財に指定されている高知城は、元々の木板造りの内装、天守閣、荘厳な入口が当時のまま保存されている唯一の城です。5,500年前の集落跡である国の特別史跡の青森三内丸山遺跡を見学して、古代日本に思いを馳せてみましょう。東京タワーの特別展望台から東京と富士山を見渡すことができます。金沢城にほど近いところにある長町武家屋敷跡では、細く曲がりくねった道を歩いてみたくなります。

Admire the delicate work of 19th century "ukiyo-e," traditional woodblock prints, with a tour of Shimizu's Tokaido Hiroshige Art Museum. Continue your artistic journey as modern bronze statues depicting the spirit monsters known as "yokai,' greet you along the streets of Sakaiminato.

写真: Traditional Japanese 'ukiyo-e' woodblock painting

The Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto (Kyoto, Uji, and Otsu Cities) is comprised of 17 locations in Japan within Kyoto and vicinity; including 13 Buddhist temples, 3 Shinto Shrines and one castle. The Hiroshima Peace Memorial (Genbaku Dome) is the only structure that survived the first atomic bomb (08/06/45), it has been preserved in the same state as immediately after the bombing. Nara (30 minutes from downtown Osaka) is home to 8 UNESCO sites, many conveniently located in the city center.

Japan Cruise Travel Articles

A cruise to Japan will unveil the world's oldest cultures and most modern metropolises, featuring intricate designs and sweeping vistas.

Explore Tokyo's Gardens on a Cruise to Japan

Hidden within the radiant lights and exhilarating sounds of Tokyo are tranquil garden sanctuaries. Put one on your must-see list when you cruise to Japan.

Planning a Japan Vacation: Three Must-See Cultural Attractions

Planning a Japan vacation? Put these three must-see attractions on your itinerary as you cruise Japan.

Meaningful Experiences on Japan Cruises: Discover the History of Japan Through Its Majestic Architecture

Japan cruises will afford you a unique look into Japanese culture with visits to famous national treasures such as the Golden Pavilion and Nijo Castle.

3 South Korean Temples to Visit on a Korea and Japan Cruise

Enjoy the tranquility that surrounds these three famous South Korean temples on your next Japan cruise to Korea.

旅行、航空運賃、ホテル：プリンセスがお連れします

プリンセスEZair®（フライト予約）（※日本では対象外）

Stress-free airfare

Remove the hassle from air travel and give yourself the gift of flexibility, time and a thicker wallet with Princess EZair flights. We negotiate lower rates with the airlines, allow you to modify your flight up to 45 days prior with no penalty and protect you if your flight is late or canceled.

EZairのフライト見積料金は、クルーズ検索結果の詳細ページで閲覧可能です。

飛行機から船へのトランスファー

プリンセスを通して航空券のご予約をされていない場合でも、空港から客船またはホテルまでの送迎はプリンセスにお任せください。手荷物を受け取った後は、制服を着たプリンセスの係員が空港でお客様をお迎えし、客船またはホテルまで送り届けますので、知らない街での移動に頭を悩ませることはありません。

クルーズ・プラス・ホテル・パッケージ

滞在を延長してさらにリラックス

Extend your cruise vacation, and simplify your travel plans with a hotel stay at the beginning or end of your cruise. クルーズ・プラス・ホテル・パッケージでは、プリンセスの係員が空港または埠頭でお客様をお迎えし、ホテルまで、またはホテルからお連れします。The package includes the cost of your hotel stay, transportation, luggage handling and the services of the representative.

プランニングのヘルプが必要ですか？

プリンセス・クルーズ バケーションプランナーは、お客様のクルーズバケーションのプランニングを1ステップずつお手伝いする専用リソースです。このサービスは無料です。

割引クルーズ・キャンペーン

様々なデスティネーション行きのトップセール、キャンペーン、パートナーシップ、プロモーションはすべて一箇所で検索できます。プリンセスは年間を通じてプロモーションを行う、時折賞品が当たる抽選も開催しています。

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Princess Cruises Japan 2023 itineraries

The Carnival Corporation -owned brand Princess Cruises announced its 2023 Japan cruises and cruisetours season.

On sale September 1, a wealth of itineraries spanning from the southern islands of Okinawa to the northernmost Hokkaido Island, offer passengers the chance to discover the Japanese history, culture, natural wonders, and cuisine.

Diamond Princess ship returns to Japan in 2023 (summer and fall) to celebrate the brand's 10th anniversary of cruising from Yokohama-Tokyo  and Kobe-Osaka . The ship calls at 38 destinations in 4 different countries on 43 itineraries and 57 departures, ranging between 5-19 days.

Princess said that top reasons to experience Japan with the line in 2023 include:

• Cruising with Princess is THE Best Way to See Japan – passengers can book airfare with Princess EZair, enjoy low rates and late arrival protection as well as flexible booking. The company offers English-speaking guides and shore trips to enjoy the sights and local culture and provides 8 “More Ashore” late-night stays in ports like Aomori , Akita , Hakodate , Osaka (for Kyoto).
• Temples, Shrines, Castles – like the 16th century Osaka Castle or Seiryu-ji Temple, home of the largest bronze seated Buddha in Japan.
• Festivals – Opportunities to experience 7 festivals, including the world-famous Kyoto Gion Festival, or watch a display of 10,000 fireworks during the Kumano Fireworks Festival.
• Vibrant Cities & Landscapes (access to 7 UNESCO Sites)
• Spring Flowers, Gardens, and Onsens (visiting a classic Japanese garden and seeing hundreds of sakura (cherry blossoms) or soaking in geothermal “onsen” natural hot spring bath).

For guests with more time to explore Japan, the line offers 13-/14-day Highlights of Japan cruise tours, featuring a multiple-night land tour combined with the voyage to experience the wonders of Tokyo and Kyoto.

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Princess Cruises to Sail From Japan to Alaska in 2024 — What to Know

Passengers will sail from Japan’s northern Tohoku and Hokkaido regions during cherry blossom season and travel all the way to Anchorage.

Courtesy of Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises will sail from Japan all the way to Alaska, introducing a new voyage that brings travelers from cherry blossoms to glaciers. 

The new itinerary, which is part of the company’s 2024 Japanese cruise season, will take travelers from Japan’s northern Tohoku and Hokkaido regions during cherry blossom season and travel all the way to Anchorage over 15 days, according to Princess . Passengers will also have the option to extend their voyage and travel to Vancouver for a total of 22 days on the cruise.

The cruise, which will depart Tokyo on April 27, 2024, will sail on the Royal Princess , marking the first time the cruise line's Royal-Class ship will sail in the region.

PAUL NORDMANN/Courtesy of Princess Cruises

“Japan has been a popular homeport and destination experience for Princess guests for many years and we’re thrilled to offer such a culturally-rich season of cruises in this region for the 2024 season,” John Padgett, Princess Cruises’ president, said in a statement.

In addition, Princess will sail its Diamond Princess ship, which is based in Japan from March through August 2024. That ship will sail roundtrip from Tokyo and stop in 35 different destinations across three countries with trips that range from seven to 23 days.

The Diamond Princess gained widespread notoriety at the start of the pandemic when it suffered a COVID-19 outbreak in Japan, but started sailing again last year . The ship is now classified as a MedallionClass ship and includes features like keyless stateroom entry, turn-by-turn directions to navigate through the ship, and the ability to order food, drinks, and more for delivery through the app.

For its part, Japan reopened to independent travelers last year, but requires all travelers to show either proof of three doses of a COVID-19 vaccine or proof of a negative test conducted within 72 hours of departure, according to the Japan National Tourism Organization .

2024-2025 New Cruise Itineraries

Book our newest cruise vacations to our best destinations now.

Check out our newest cruise itineraries and prepare for an array of unforgettable experiences on board with Princess. From sailings close to home to the distant shores of exotic lands. New Princess cruise itineraries not only take you to our best cruise destinations, but bring the colors, cultures and flavors on board to give you a truly immersive vacation. Start planning today to get the cruise – and the stateroom – you want!

2025 Alaska Cruise Itineraries

Our Alaska 2025 season promises to be our most exciting season yet. From our top-rated 7-day Voyage of the Glaciers cruise and Inside Passage sailings – including roundtrip Los Angeles – to new “Ultimate Alaska” sailings that visit less-frequented ports and include at least three days of glacier viewing, we have Alaska covered by sea. Venture further with 27 cruisetour options, each combining a 7-day cruise with multiple nights in the heart of Alaska, stays at Princess-owned wilderness lodges and scenic rail travel. It’s no wonder we’ve been named Best Cruise Line in Alaska by Travel Weekly NINETEEN TIMES!

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2023-2024 Asia Cruise Itineraries

Let Princess whisk you to stunning cities and timeless villages on an epic voyage in Asia. Each destination tells its own story through celebrated landmarks, popular markets, culinary secrets and traditions that have been passed down for generations. Sail on Diamond Princess®, and discover why Princess was awarded “Best Cruise Line in Asia” by Porthole Magazine.

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2024-2025 Australia, New Zealand & South Pacific Cruise Itineraries

Experience the natural wonders of Australia, the unique culture of New Zealand and the island paradises of Tahiti, Fiji and beyond with Princess in 2024–2025. You can also visit two UNESCO World Heritage sites, the Great Barrier Reef and Uluru National Park’s iconic Uluru (Ayers Rock), on cruisetour options that combine a multi-night land tour with a traditional cruise. Choose from three ships, including Royal Princess,® as well as Crown Princess® and Diamond Princess,® sailing 72 itineraries to 64 destinations.

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2024-2025 California Coast Cruise Itineraries

Explore the landscape of the California Coast and visit world-famous cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego and Santa Barbara. Shop and dine along eclectic boulevards. See iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge, Coronado Bay and Griffith Observatory. Or escape to renowned vineyards for an award-winning wine. See even more with late-night stays in San Francisco, San Diego, Victoria, Vancouver, B.C. or Los Angeles.

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2025 Canada & New England Cruise Itineraries

Experience colonial history, charming Eastern seaboard villages and famed New England seafood when you sail Canada & New England with Princess®. Princess will sail 7-day roundtrip voyages from Boston and New York. There are also 10-day voyages between Boston and Québec and roundtrip 10-day American Heritage voyages where you’ll have the opportunity to visit Colonial Williamsburg and Jamestown, as well as legendary Revolutionary War sites. You can also extend your journey on land with a crusietour that visits more of American history at places like Gettysburg and Philadelphia, or spends time in Canadian cities like Toronto (for Niagara Falls) Montréal and more.

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2024-2025 Caribbean Cruise Itineraries

Relax on top-rated beaches, explore ancient ruins and get immersed in colorful cultures — the laidback Caribbean has lots to love for everyone. Discover the Eastern, Western or Southern Caribbean with a variety of unique itineraries and departure ports. For the first time, Princess is offering a season of 6- and 8-day Eastern and Western Caribbean voyages roundtrip from Port Canaveral on Caribbean Princess®. (Can't choose? Combine them for a 14-day sailing!) Or sail aboard the new Sun Princess® from Fort Lauderdale on 5- to 14-day voyages to see both the Eastern and Western Caribbean.

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2024 Summer Caribbean Cruise Itineraries

Whether you're seeking top-rated beaches or ancient Mayan ruins, the Caribbean is your playground in Summer 2024. From seven-day, 10-day and 14-day summer sailings to all corners of the Caribbean to our award-winning private island resort, Princess Cays,® and onboard programs that immerse you in local life, you’ll connect with the islands in ways you never imagined.

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2025 Europe Cruise Itineraries

Princess is celebrating its 40th anniversary of Mediterranean sailing by featuring two of its newest and largest ships – Star Princess® and Sun Princess®. Explore the best of Europe in 2025, from the British Isles to Scandinavia, the Mediterranean and beyond with itineraries from five to 33 days as you visit famous landmarks, including many UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Let local experts guide the way with foodie- and art-centric tours. Love local nightlife? Look for More Ashore late-night departures and overnight stays.

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2024-2025 Hawaii Cruise Itineraries

Princess is the only cruise line that sails a full season roundtrip from the mainland, with a choice of roundtrip departures from Los Angeles, San Francisco and Vancouver, B.C. Immerse yourself in Polynesian culture the moment you step on board with our Aloha Spirit program. Visit the most popular islands – Maui, Oahu, Kauai and the Big Island – while only unpacking once. Plus, enjoy a More Ashore late-night stay in Honolulu on most sailings.

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2024 Japan Cruise Itineraries

In Summer 2024, Diamond Princess® sails out of Tokyo (Yokohama) with a variety of ways to enjoy the traditions and beauty of the region. There are five opportunities to see storied local festivals, including the popular Nebuta Festival. We also have sailings that arrive when Japan’s famed spring flowers are in bloom. Sail where ancient traditions and modernity co-exist in harmony on the #1 North American Cruise Line in Japan.

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2024-2025 Mexico Cruise Itineraries

From mariachis to margaritas, the Mexican Riviera is where it all began with our first cruise in 1965. More than 50 years later, we still visit the best ports like Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlán and less-traveled jewels like Loreto and Manzanillo. Sail from Los Angeles or San Francisco on five- to 11-day roundtrip cruises, and stay overnight in Cabo San Lucas on select voyages for a taste of vibrant nightlife.

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2024-2025 Panama Canal Cruise Itineraries

Princess offers two ways to see the epic Panama Canal, including new 12-day roundtrip sailings from Fort Lauderdale aboard Emerald Princess®, which include destinations like Costa Rica & the Caribbean, as well as Ocean-to-Ocean 15- to 23-day voyages between Fort Lauderdale, Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York, and Vancouver, B.C.

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2024-2025 South America & Antarctica Cruise Itineraries

Delight in South America’s vibrant cultures and stunning landscapes and get swept away by the breathtaking beauty of Antarctica. Experience the thrill of sailing through the Strait of Magellan, the 19th-century treasures of Buenos Aires or cruise through the icy waterways of the Antarctic Peninsula.

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2025 World Cruises Cruise Itineraries

Set sail across the globe on a truly epic adventure – a Princess World Cruise. On a voyage spanning more than 100 days, and travelling over 33,000 nautical miles, you’ll visit more than 40 destinations in over two dozen countries. In 2025, Island Princess will sail an 116-day World Cruise – our longest ever. Whether you sail from Los Angeles or Ft. Lauderdale, or choose options from Sydney, Australia, you’ll have the opportunity to experience the best of Asia, the South Pacific, Middle East, Europe, North, Central and South America and beyond.

• World Cruise At a Glance Flyer - Island Princess (PDF)
• World Cruise Early Booking Benefits - Island Princess (PDF)
• World Cruise At a Glance Flyer - Crown Princess (PDF)
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Land of the Rising Sun: a taste of Japan on board Diamond Princess

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Jo Kessel steps on board Princess Cruises' Diamond Princess and discovers it's the perfect way to experience Japan's intricate culture, standout destinations and world-class cuisine.

It’s pretty rare for a cruise to take you somewhere that’s not on the tourist map – but that’s what happens when I’m sailing around Japan with Princess Cruises. 

My ship stops at a port called Toba. It’s not in my guidebook and even many Japanese don’t know it. But I’d heard of a tiny, mystical island not far from here and I ask a lady at the information desk how to get there. She’s surprised I want to go.

“There’s nothing there,” she says. “But then again, I suppose nothing can also be special.”    

In the end, a local, 15-minute ferry delivers me to a parcel of land floating in the Pacific called Toshijima. A wander around leads to a small temple, a quaint harbour and several wide, blonde beaches, all empty. There are very few places left in the world that haven’t been found by tourists, but this is one of them: a blissfully offbeat slice of Japanese paradise.  

Cultural cruising

I’m on a nine-night voyage circumventing Japan, the Land of the Rising Sun – a long, thin island nation that lends itself well to cruising. The trip comprises four major islands: Honshu (home to Tokyo), Hokkaido, Shikoku and Kyushu. Surrounding these are thousands of smaller isles, of which Toshijijma is just one.  

My ship is the 2,670-passenger Diamond Princess, Princess Cruises’ only liner to sail exclusively in the Japan region. It’s your regular, all-encompassing cruise ship with multiple pools, bars and restaurants, but it also offers an immersive cultural experience, with lots of subtle Japanese influences.

There are chopsticks alongside cutlery. Tea is more likely to be green than earl grey. And there are plenty of Japanese dishes on the menu, from ramen noodles to sushi and teriyaki. There is, however, no shortage of burgers, steaks and chips too, and Princess has hired slumber experts to design luxurious, bespoke beds for the cabins.

The ship’s most standout Japanese offering is its ‘Izumi bath’ – a steamy experience designed to replicate the ancient Japanese ritual of bathing naked in hot springs called ‘onsen’. And gulp, yes, swimsuits must come off (it’s single sex).  

Lovely though bathing in Izumi is, it’s no match for my swim on one of Toshijima’s beaches. The deep stretch of golden sand is set in a cove that hems in a crystal clear, calm sea. There’s no one else there and it’s one of my most memorable swims ever.  

Lesser-visited spots

Think of Japan and you imagine thrumming, high-tech cities full of flashing neon and glinting skyscrapers. I’d seen this side during a pre-cruise stay in Tokyo, where I’d spent two days exploring temples, markets and parks, as well the world’s busiest zebra crossing – the one outside Shibuya train station, immortalised by Scarlett Johansson in Lost in Translation.   

But much of the country is made up of quiet, rural, mountainous regions and the beauty of cruising is that it can take you to these hidden destinations most travellers never reach. Many of these spots are steamy and that’s because Japan sits within the Pacific Ring of Fire and is volcanically very active. It’s one of the world’s leading hot spring nations with tens of thousands of geothermal sources. 

READ MORE: The world's most beautiful ports visited by cruise ships

There are public foot onsen called ‘ashiyu’ everywhere – shallow hot pools made for planting feet. I try my first when Diamond Princess stops in the western port of Sakaiminato the next day. It’s at the finishing point of a brand new 10-mile (16km) cycle path, which starts near the ship. After pedalling its full length, through pine forest and alongside a white-sand coastline, it’s a joy to remove socks and dip in toes.  

On dry land

Back on board Diamond Princess there are plenty more opportunities to embrace Japanese culture. You can learn the art of Japanese paper-folding or attend a beginner’s language class. Or you can sample sake and seafood at the ship’s specialty restaurant Kai Sushi – the scallop sashimi is sensational.

Japan is an adventurous destination and that’s where cruising is brilliant. You can either join one of the ship’s guided shore excursions (at extra cost) or explore independently and, at the moment, exploring alone is definitely cheaper.

The yen is currently weak against the pound and everything in Japan is of great value. A fiver can buy you a subway ticket, entrance to a temple and a hearty bowl of noodles – and public transport is easy to navigate with a little help from Google maps. It’s also a safe country where trains are on time and you’re never more than a couple of minutes away from an immaculate, free public toilet.

READ MORE: Amazing river cruise facts that'll make you want to book a trip

My preference is to go it alone – but this does require doing detailed pre-cruise research so that you know exactly what you’d like to do in each port. There was no shore excursion, for example, that would have taken me to the island of Toshijima or cycling in Sakaiminato. 

There is one ship excursion I make time for, however, and that’s in Busan, South Korea – a common port on many Japanese cruise itineraries. It’s to Haedong Yonggungsa Buddhist Temple, a sprawling, colourful complex carved into rocky cliffs overlooking the sea. 

“If you pray hard here one of your wishes will be granted,” says our guide. I take my prayers to a giant, golden Buddha statue and he beams broadly in response.

Standout experiences 

The biggest thrill, however, is saved till last. Our cruise happens to coincide with Gion Festival, one of Japan’s biggest annual celebrations. It’s held every July in Kyoto, which is only a fifteen-minute bullet-train ride from where the ship docks in Osaka. It draws in the masses, who gather to watch a grand procession of floats pass through the city. Some of the floats are the size of double decker buses, with carnival-goers perched precariously on their roofs.

Yet despite their size and weight, they’re pulled along manually by a team of men wearing traditional Japanese costume. The expression on their faces is of pure concentration as they tug and heave, especially when they turn a corner. It’s a tricky manoeuvre which, once successfully negotiated, elicits cheers of appreciation from the crowd.   

Before the cruise draws to a close there’s something I’m keen to try…if I dare. And that’s to soak in a Japanese onsen the traditional way: naked in a mixed bath. The opportunity comes from the port of Akita in the north, not far from the country’s most historic springs, Nyuto Onsen. They were discovered and used by Samurai warriors some four hundred years ago.  

The mixed bath is surrounded by beech forest and overlooks a thundering waterfall. Six people are in it already, however. And they’re all men. I clutch the towel wrapped round my body tighter, no longer so sure. Shall I, shan’t I? Suddenly I throw caution to the wind, ditch the towel, run and dunk. It’s heavenly and liberating; like being wrapped in heated, liquid gold.  

This Diamond Princess cruise is exciting and different, offering a taste of Japanese culture, cuisine and countryside. There are so many experiences to embrace, be it trying new foods, learning cultutal practices such as the art of paper-folding, or stripping off in an onsen. And if you're lucky, you might just manage to find your very own slice of little-known Japanese paradise.    

Getting there

A nine-night cruise on Diamond Princess full board costs from £1,219pp ($1,552). Japan Airlines has return flights from £1,127pp ($1,435). Doubles at Park Hotel Tokyo cost from £135pp ($172). For more info visit  princess.com and  parkhoteltokyo.com . 

READ MORE: The coolest features on board cruise ships

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Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan

An hour from the port city of Yokohama is the booming city of Tokyo. A visit to vibrant Tokyo reveals a mix of traditional and modern attractions: See the Imperial Palace, participate in a tea ceremony or shop in the legendary Ginza district. Tours also take passengers to the Meiji Shrine and the Senso-ji Temple. Many visitors opt to join an excursion to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park for a boat trip on the lake, a cable car ride to Mount Komagatake and an unforgettable view of Mount Fuji.

Osanbashi Yokohama International Passenger Terminal 1-1-4 Kaigan-Dori Naka-ku Yokohama 231-0002 Yokohama, Japan

Parking is available on the first floor of the terminal. Payment for parking Japanese Yen only. Daikoku-Futo Cruise Terminal 13 Daikoku Pier, Tsurumi Ward Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture From Narita International Airport (NRT):

Take Higashi Kanto expressway from Tokyo's Narita International Airport. Continue driving on Higashi Kanto Expressway to Tokyo Higashi Kanto Expressway is connected to Expressway Wangan (Bay Shore Route) Line. (B-line) Continue driving on Expressway Wangan Line to Yokohama through Haneda Airport Then Across Tsurumi Bridge and Yokohama Bay Bridge. Turn off expressway Wangan line at Shin Yamashita exit no,351. After exiting, pass underneath the Expressway turn left at intersection in front of Custom office, then turn right at an intersection the name of Yamashitabashi. Go straight through Yokohama Port Tower and Yamashita Park to the Kaiko Hiroba-Mae intersection Then turn right at Kaiko Hiroba-Mae intersection then you will arrive at Obanshi Yokohama International Passenger Terminal.

From Haneda International Airport (HND):

This is the announcement bar for Poornima to test the Close Button.  It will expire May 31 2024.

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Princess Cruises Announces 2023 Japan Cruises & Cruisetours Season

Temples, shrines & castles, festivals, vibrant cities and spring flowers abound on diverse array of cruise itineraries to treasured island nation.

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The lure of Japan’s architecture, traditions, festivals and landscapes can magically come to life for travelers during the newly announced 2023 cruises and cruisetours season from Princess Cruises. On sale today, a multitude of itineraries spanning from the southern tropical islands of Okinawa to the northernmost island of Hokkaido, offer guests the opportunity to discover the culture, history, cuisine and natural wonders of Japan, where ancient traditions and fast-paced modernity exist in harmony.

Japan-built Diamond Princess returns for the summer and fall of 2023 to celebrate the 10 th anniversary of sailing from Tokyo (Yokohama) and Kobe. The ship--designed with the destination in mind, featuring regionally infused cuisine, unique entertainment and a tranquil Izumi, the largest Japanese bath at sea—calls to 38 destinations in four countries on 43 unique itineraries and 57 departures, ranging from 5- to 19-days.

Top reasons to experience Japan with Princess in 2023 include:

• Temples, Shrines, Castles – Guests delight in the abundance of stunning temples and shrines, like the magnificent 16 th century Osaka Castle or Seiryu-ji Temple, home of Japan’s largest bronze seated Buddha.
• Festivals – Opportunities to experience seven festivals, including Japan’s world-famous Kyoto Gion Festival, featuring massive, hand-crafted “Yama” and “Hoko” floats that are constructed every year without the use of nails, or watch a display of 10,000 fireworks during the Kumano Fireworks Festival.
• Vibrant Cities & Landscapes – Astounding cities where the 21 st century coexists with the spirit of ancient Japan thrive, such as shopping in Tokyo’s Ginza district, trying local delicacies at nearby restaurants or exploring the Imperial Palace plaza. With access to seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, guests can marvel at Mt. Fuji, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial and the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto.
• Spring Flowers, Gardens and Onsens – Travelers soak in spring flowers all over Japan during spring, whether it’s visiting a classic Japanese garden, seeing hundreds of sakura (cherry blossoms) while picnicking, enjoying the meditative atmosphere of tranquil parks or soaking in the healing benefits of a geothermal “onsen” natural hot spring bath.
• Cruising with Princess is THE Best Way to See Japan – On a cruise with the #1 North American Cruise Line in the island nation of Japan, guests can book airfare with worry-free flight booking with Princess EZair, enjoy low rates, late arrival protection and flexible booking. Princess offers English-speaking guides and shore excursions to enjoy the stunning sights and local culture to the fullest, and features eight “More Ashore” late-night stays in ports such as Akita, Aomori, Hakodate and Osaka (for Kyoto).
• Princess MedallionClass vacation – A significant part of the guest services experience includes the cruise line’s effortless and personalized Princess MedallionClass vacation, simplifying the guest experience and delivering next-level service.

For those travelers with more time to explore Japan, Princess offers 13- or 14-day Highlights of Japan cruisetours, featuring a multiple-night land tour combined with the cruise, for more time on land to experience the wonders of both Tokyo and Kyoto.

More information about the multitude of offerings to explore Japan with Princess in 2023 can be found at www.princess.com/japan .

Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel advisor, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS (1-800-774-6237), or by visiting the company's website at http://www.princess.com/ .

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