The brilliant Princess Cruises is set to homeport in Japan from 15 March 2023. You’ll get to experience the beauty and charm of Japan and its many different cities on a bucket list cruise. As Japanese ports start to reopen to the international cruise industry, this is definitely one for the list.
The Journey
To commence the start of Princess Cruises’ return to Japan, the Japanese-built Diamond Princess is set to return and commemorate the momentous 10th anniversary of sailing from Tokyo (Yokohama) and Kobe on 15 March 2023 with a nine-day roundtrip from Tokyo.
Buddhist Temple in Kyoto
The Experience
Japan is a country which is historically rich, with several UNESCO heritage sights, and the adventure doesn’t stop there. Some highlights to look forward to with Princess Cruises in Japan include:
- Seiryu-ji Temple, home of Japan’s largest bronze seated Buddha
- Kyoto Gion Festival, which features massive hand-made ‘Yama’ and ‘Hoko’ floats
- Tea picking adventure in the Shimizu countryside
- UNESCO’s World Heritage sites
- Shopping in Tokyo’s Ginza district
- Exploring the Imperial Palace Plaza
- Marvel at the beauty of Mt. Fuji
- For those who are lovers of history, explore the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto
- If you have a green thumb or simply enjoy the tranquillity of nature, enjoy the classic Japanese Gardens, marvelling at the hundreds of Sakura (cherry blossoms)
- For the ultimate relaxation along with some mindful meditation, enjoy the atmosphere of tranquil parks or soaking in the healing benefits of a geothermal ‘Onsen’ (a natural hot spring bath) in Aomori
- Drinks lovers can take a tour of Kagoshima’s Shochu factory
- Panoramic birds-eye views of Tokyo and Mt. Fuji from the observatory atop Tokyo Tower
- Or if you’re a lover of art, tour Shimizu’s Tokaido Hiroshige Art Museum.
The culture and essence of Japan continues onboard, with a variety of sights, sounds and flavours awaiting you. Enjoy an evening of karaoke, delight in the 400-year-old tradition of cosmic storytelling known as ‘Rakugo’ or watch Japanese inspired films. The excitement doesn’t end there as you can tantalise your palate by indulging in a selection of regional dishes and some of the finest Japanese spirits.
Balcony suite onboard Diamond Princess
Diamond Princess
Diamond Princess features next-level technology and experiences. MedallionClass can be personalised to cater to your specific needs from touch-free boarding, finding your loved ones and having food and drinks delivered to you. This stunning ship also offers a variety of accommodations from suites and oceanview to family rooms and more.
Princess Cruises will also offer cruises onboard Diamond Princess with calls to 38 destinations in four countries on 43 unique itineraries and 57 departures. If you’re looking for short getaway or a lengthier vacation to immerse yourself in Japan and its culture, there a numerous option as cruises will sail for a duration of 5 to 19 days.
Kai Sushi
Apart from the luxurious accommodations, Diamond Princess has a variety of inclusive dining options from buffets, pizzas, desserts and 24-hour room service. If you’re looking to indulge yourself a little extra, there is very reasonable priced speciality dining with Kai Shushi, Sterling Steakhouse and more.
As you travel to your next port of call, there are activities for everyone to indulge in, from a sports court, a Vegas style casino, internet café and library, musical productions, and a nightclub to name a few.
Roppongi Hills (Image courtesy of Tokyo Kohaku, Unsplash)
Shop till you drop
Princess Cruises offers tax- and duty-free shopping onboard with a range of your favourites, such as Chanel, Calvin Klein, Swarovski and Tissot. However, Japan itself has much to offer shopping wise. With several luxury malls to lookout for in Tokyo, some highlights include: Tokyo Midtown, Roppongi Hills, Shop & Restaurant, Diver City Tokyo Plaza, Nakano Broadway (a brilliant spot for any anime lovers) and many more.
In a nutshell
This Japan Cruise from Princess is a great way to explore another corner of the world without the worry of catching flights or trains around the country, but simply enjoying yourself at sea and taking in the wonder of Japan.
To discover more, visit: princess.com
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All imagery courtesy of Princess Cruises and Tokyo Kohaku (Unsplash).