Japan Cruises

Discover the Enchantment of Japan on a Cruise

Japan, a land where ancient culture meets cutting-edge technology, offers an unforgettable journey for all cruisers. Easy to navigate yet rich in diverse experiences, Japan showcases everything from serene temples to vibrant cityscapes and stunning landscapes. A cruise to Japan allows you to immerse yourself in this unique blend while providing convenient access to various enchanting destinations. Did you know that Japan has over 6,800 islands, with the five main islands housing more than 126 million people? With its delicious cuisine, breathtaking scenery, and welcoming locals, Japan is a top-notch cruising destination you’ll want to explore!

Top Harbours to Visit in Japan

When cruising to Japan, here are five harbours that promise a remarkable experience:

Popular Ports Before or After Your Japan Cruise

While cruising Japan, you may also explore these notable ports, adding even more to your experience:

Seasonal Benefits for Cruising to Japan

The best time for cruising in Japan falls between April and November when temperatures hover between 15°C and 30°C. The spring months offer the famous cherry blossom season, which is a sight to behold! Autumn, on the other hand, displays stunning fall colours. If you wish to travel during less busy times, consider the shoulder seasons in March or late September, where the temperatures are milder, and it’s less crowded than peak tourist months during the summer.

Cruise Pricing Overview for Japan

Cruising to Japan typically ranges from $1,500 to $3,500 for a 1-week standard cruise, while luxury cruises may be priced between $4,500 and $8,500. For a 2-week cruise, you can expect to pay about $2,800 to $6,000 on standard options, and $9,000 or more for luxury cruising experiences. The most economical times to book are generally during the shoulder seasons of March to early April and late September. Dining in Japan can cost around $20 to $50 per meal at local restaurants, with drinks averaging $6 to $12 each.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Journeys to Japan

• Princess Cruises
  With 17 ships in its fleet, Princess Cruises has 2 that travel to Japan: Diamond Princess and Discovery Princess. These vessels typically depart from Yokohama (Tokyo) or Seattle. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, Princess Cruises offers diverse dining options and ample onboard activities, making it a popular choice for cruisers of all ages.
• Royal Caribbean Cruises
  Royal Caribbean operates 29 ships, with 4 offering itineraries to Japan, including Spectrum of the Seas and Ovation of the Seas. Departures frequently happen from Shanghai or Hong Kong. The cruise line is known for its vibrant onboard entertainment and diverse dining options, making for a fun-filled cruising experience.
• Norwegian Cruise Line
  Norwegian boasts a fleet of 20 ships, with 3 sailing to Japan: Norwegian Spirit and Norwegian Sun. Most departures take place from Seoul or Tokyo. Their unique freestyle cruising concept allows greater flexibility in dining and entertainment options for guests, enabling a more tailored experience onboard.
• MSC Cruises
  With a total fleet size of 23 ships, MSC offers 2 vessels navigating to Japan, including MSC Bellissima and MSC Magnifica. Departures usually occur from Tokyo or Keelung (Taipei). MSC is known for its stunning ship designs and broad array of family-friendly activities, making it an option for all ages.
• Celebrity Cruises
  Celebrity has a fleet of 16 ships, with Celebrity Millennium offering cruises to Japan. Departing most often from Yokohama (Tokyo) or Tokyo, Celebrity is revered for its upscale offerings, including exceptional dining, stylish decor, and a focus on providing unique cruise experiences.

Luxury and Small Ship Options

• Oceania Cruises
  With a fleet size of 8 ships, Oceania has 4 vessels visiting Japan, including Riviera and Regatta. Most cruises depart from Tokyo or Yokohama (Tokyo). Known for its gourmet dining experiences and destination-focused itineraries, Oceania ensures that every guest enjoys the true essence of local cultures.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises
  This luxury line has a fleet of 6 ships, 2 of which sail to Japan, including Seven Seas Explorer and Seven Seas Mariner. Departing frequently from Tokyo or Hong Kong, Regent is celebrated for an all-inclusive experience, offering exceptional service and luxury throughout your cruise journey.
• Silversea
  Silversea’s fleet of 13 includes 5 ships that travel to Japan, such as Silver Nova and Silver Moon. Departures often occur from Tokyo or Hong Kong. Known for its plush accommodations and intimate atmosphere, Silversea offers personalized service and curated shore excursions that reflect the local culture.
• Seabourn
  With a fleet of 6 ships, Seabourn offers 3 that sail to Japan: Seabourn Quest and Seabourn Encore. Most departures are from Yokohama (Tokyo) or Kobe. Seabourn is renowned for its ultra-luxurious offerings, including exclusive services and bespoke itineraries that cater to each guest’s unique desires.
• Viking Ocean Cruises
  With 11 vessels, Viking offers 2 ships to Japan: Viking Orion and Viking Venus. These cruises typically depart from Hong Kong or Vancouver. Viking’s focus on immersive experiences and all-inclusive pricing makes each stop memorable, weaving cultural engagement throughout the journey.

Alternative Regions to Consider for Your Cruise

If Japan captured your interest, consider these alternatives for your next cruise adventure:

• South Korea: Travel to South Korea for a combination of rich history, stunning landscapes, and mouth-watering cuisine. Experience urban delights in Seoul and ancient palaces in Gyeongju.
• Asia: There’s so much to explore in the larger Asia region! From the bustling cities of Singapore and Bangkok to the tranquil beauty of Bali, this region offers a vast array of experiences for every traveller.
• China: Known for its ancient history and vibrant culture, a cruise to China provides a fantastic opportunity to visit destinations like Shanghai and Beijing. Don’t miss a chance to see the Great Wall of China!
• Taiwan: The vibrant island of Taiwan offers a blend of natural beauty, bustling night markets, and rich history. A visit to Taiwans cultural landmarks and temples is a guaranteed delight for all.
• Bali: An idyllic paradise known for stunning tropical beaches, Bali invites cruisers to enjoy its vibrant culture, artistic traditions, and wellness retreats that will leave you feeling rejuvenated.

Embrace the allure of Japan by booking your next cruise with CruiseAway. This dynamic destination is waiting to welcome you with open arms, rich culture, and countless adventures!