JAPAN CRUISES AND CRUISETOURS

Unlock the soul of Japan

From iconic landmarks to hidden traditions, Princess Cruises delivers endless discoveries both onboard 
and ashore.

Art of effortless cruising

At Princess, exploring Japan is more than a journey—it’s a seamless cultural immersion. Our cruises are designed to let you experience vibrant cities, serene countryside, and timeless traditions without the usual travel stress. Glide between iconic destinations like Nagasaki, Kyoto, and Hiroshima—no packing, train schedules, or language barriers. Onboard, enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine, cultural performances, and thoughtful touches that reflect the spirit of Japan. With Princess, Japan isn’t just a destination—it’s a story you’ll live, effortlessly.

Check the Japan must-sees off your list in 2025

You can experience it all when you travel by sea, land, and rail with Princess

Traditions that create a timeless experience

Japan’s cultural heritage shines through daily life—from the elegance of a tea ceremony to the energy of festival season. With Princess, you’ll witness these traditions up close. It’s not just about observing traditions—it’s about experiencing them in the places where they were born. 

Mini-suite on Sky Princess
Traditional tea ceremony
Couple looking at the sea from their balcony and drinking wine
Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, Kyoto

Where history comes alive

Japan’s history is a living epic—from the ancient Jomon period to the rise of the samurai and the transformative Meiji Restoration. Walk in the footsteps of emperors and warriors as you explore majestic castles, sacred temples, and storied cities. Onboard, curated lectures and cultural programming offer deeper insight into Japan’s fascinating past—bringing history to life both on land and at sea, enriching every step of your journey. 

Family enjoying mini-suite seating area
Bustling street in Shibuya, Tokyo
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Authentic regional specialties

Taste the authenticity

Japanese cuisine is a journey—rooted in tradition, shaped by the seasons, and crafted with precision. From the elegance of sushi and sashimi to the comfort of ramen, tempura, and regional specialties, each dish reveals a new layer of culinary heritage. Whether you're sampling fresh seafood ashore or savoring expertly prepared dishes onboard, food in Japan is more than nourishment—it’s an experience to be savored.

A cruise for every season

Each season reveals a different face of Japan, with unique cultural experiences, seasonal cuisines, and natural wonders. Whatever time you choose to visit, Princess itineraries are thoughtfully designed to showcase the authentic seasonal traditions that make Japan endlessly fascinating.

Explore the unforgettable ports of Japan

Princess Cruises offers unparalleled access to Japan's ports, sailing to over 38 destinations. With a longer season, and more departure dates than any other cruise line, you’ll have even more opportunities to explore these remarkable destinations—all without the hassle of planning each stop yourself.

Alaska Cruise Map
Alaska Cruise Map
Alaska Cruise Map
Alaska Cruise Map
Alaska Cruise Map
Alaska Cruise Map
Alaska Cruise Map
Alaska Cruise Map

Discover the best of Japan on any voyage

2023 Award of Excellence

See Japan by sea and land when you book a cruisetour

See more of Japan's top attractions on land before your cruise when you book a cruisetour.

Traveling to Japan by cruise ship is best described as a balance between convenience and immersion... You get a taste of many incredible destinations without the hassle of packing and unpacking.” 

– H. Ishikara

Asakusa Temple
Sensō-ji, an ancient Buddhist temple located in Asakusa, Tokyo, Japan

Japan cruise spotlight: A day in Kyoto

Imagine the perfect day in port, taking in the sights and an excursion or two.

Excursions for every interest

From sumo matches to cherry blossom festivals, steaming bowls of ramen to Zen gardens—Japan is full of memorable moments waiting to happen. To make these experiences even more accessible, select excursions are also offered in both Japanese and English.

Why a Princess cruise is the best choice to see Japan

A Princess cruise offers a convenient and deeply immersive way to experience Japan. Backed by over a decade of experience sailing these waters, we’ve crafted journeys that let you unpack just once and explore a world of cultural richness —through authentic onboard experiences, regionally inspired dining, and a wide range of shore excursions that bring each destination to life. It’s a seamless way to discover Japan, both onboard and ashore.

Culturally immersive onboard experience

With two ships dedicated to Asia itineraries, Princess brings the spirit of Japan to life at sea. Guests can unwind in traditional Japanese baths (onsens), savor authentic regional cuisine, and enjoy enriching cultural performances—from Rakugo storytelling to folkloric dance. Every detail is designed to offer a deeper connection to Japan’s heritage.

princess ships in Japan
Diamond Princess® and Sapphire Princess®

Diverse and thoughtfully curated itineraries

With 38 spectacular ports of call and cruises ranging from 7-day escapes to 28-day explorations, Princess offers a wide range of Japan cruises designed to suit every traveler. Each itinerary visits multiple ports across the country—revealing the rich diversity of Japan’s regions, from bustling cities to serene coastal towns. Timed to coincide with iconic seasonal moments like cherry blossom season, summer festivals, and autumn foliage, these journeys offer a front-row seat to Japan at its most picturesque.

Mt Fuji
Mt. Fuji in fall

Extensive shore excursion options

Every port brings new opportunities to connect with Japan’s culture, history, and natural beauty. Princess offers a wide range of shore excursions—from curated visits to iconic landmarks like Mount Fuji and Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park to hands-on experiences like tea ceremonies, sake tastings, and explorations of traditional villages. With options designed for a variety of interests and activity levels, there’s something for every kind of explorer.

Himeji Castle in Japan
Springtime at Himeji Castle in Japan

Specialized dining experiences

In addition to your favorite Princess classics, guests can enjoy a variety of authentic Japanese dining experiences throughout their journey. Savor expertly crafted edoma-style sushi at Makoto Ocean by sushi master Makoto Okuwa who brings his over 25 years of experience to the high seas. Enjoy the lively flair or Teppanyaki, or explore regional specialties featured in our “Princess Japan Favorites” menu in the main dining rooms. Whether you're in the mood for something familiar or something new, every meal is a celebration of choice and flavor.

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Enjoy the exquisite creations of Sushi Master Makoto Okuwa at Makoto Ocean.

Personalized attentive service

Our expert crew provides friendly service, allowing you to relax. Powered by Medallion technology, enjoy a personalized and streamlined experience with expedited boarding, touchless payments, and easy navigation for effortless cruising.

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Soak in the traditional onsen bath experience.

Convenience and value

Cruising with Princess to Japan offers the significant advantage of unpacking only once while visiting multiple destinations. Meals, entertainment, and accommodation are largely covered in the cruise fare, and inclusive packages like Princess Plus® and Princess Premier® can further enhance the value by adding amenities like Wi-Fi, premium beverages, and gratuities.

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Onboard, every night is an opportunity to connect and celebrate.

Specialized dining experiences

In addition to your favorite Princess classics, guests can enjoy a variety of authentic Japanese dining experiences throughout their journey. Savor expertly crafted edoma-style sushi at Makoto Ocean by sushi master Makoto Okuwa who brings his over 25 years of experience to the high seas. Enjoy the lively flair or Teppanyaki, or explore regional specialties featured in our “Princess Japan Favorites” menu in the main dining rooms. Whether you're in the mood for something familiar or something new, every meal is a celebration of choice and flavor.

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Enjoy the exquisite creations of Sushi Master Makoto Okuwa at Makoto Ocean.

Convenience and value

Cruising with Princess to Japan offers the significant advantage of unpacking only once while visiting multiple destinations. Meals, entertainment, and accommodation are largely covered in the cruise fare, and inclusive packages like Princess Plus® and Princess Premier® can further enhance the value by adding amenities like Wi-Fi, premium beverages, and gratuities.

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Onboard, every night is an opportunity to connect and celebrate.

Personalized attentive service

Our expert crew provides friendly service, allowing you to relax. Powered by Medallion technology, enjoy a personalized and streamlined experience with expedited boarding, touchless payments, and easy navigation for effortless cruising.

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Soak in the traditional onsen bath experience