Japan Cruises

Explore the Beauty and Culture of Japan with CruiseAway

Japan, an island nation where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern innovations, offers an unforgettable cruise experience. As a destination, it captivates cruisers with its breathtaking landscapes, distinctive cuisine, and rich cultural heritage. From the cherry blossoms in spring to the vibrant colours of autumn foliage, each season presents its own charm and uniqueness. Did you know that Japan has over 6,800 islands? This makes it a paradise for exploration, where each port showcases a variety of sights and experiences! Sail into Japan’s picturesque harbours and you will discover stunning temples, historical monuments, and bustling cities filled with friendly locals ready to share their culture.

Top Harbours to Visit in Japan

When cruising through Japan, here are five harbours that are must-visit destinations offering a range of exciting activities:

• Yokohama (Tokyo): Just a stone’s throw from Tokyo, Yokohama is famed for its stunning waterfront and vibrant atmosphere. Visit the beautiful **Sankeien Garden** or the **Cup Noodles Museum** for a fun, interactive experience. When you’re in the area, don’t miss **Minato Mirai**, known for its shopping and great dining options. Insider tip: Enjoy dinner with a view at the **Sky Garden** in the Landmark Tower for a scenic cityscape!
• Kobe: Known for its delicious beef, Kobe boasts a picturesque harbour and stunning views of the mountains. Be sure to visit the **Kobe Harborland**, which features shopping and entertainment galore. Don’t forget to sample authentic **Kobe beef** at a local restaurant—this is a gourmet experience that you won’t want to miss! Take a stroll along the **Pier Mosaic** for some delightful scenery and charm.
• Nagasaki: A city full of history and charm, explore the **Nagasaki Peace Park** and the intriguing **Atomic Bomb Museum**. Enjoy stunning coastal views from the **Inasa Mountain**, where you can take a cable car ride. Insider tip: Visit the beautiful **Glover Garden**, where you can see traditional Western-style buildings and have some lovely tea in the garden.
• Hiroshima: Rich in history, Hiroshima is home to the **Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park** and the iconic **Atomic Bomb Dome**. You can indulge in **okonomiyaki**, a savoury pancake that’s famously born here. Pro tip: Take a ferry to **Miyajima Island** and visit the famous **floating Torii gate** for an unforgettable photo opportunity!
• Shimizu: Nestled at the foot of Mount Fuji, Shimizu offers breathtaking views and delicious local seafood. Visiting the **Kuuma Shrine** or breezing through the **Shizuoka Sengan-en Garden** are fantastic options. Don’t miss the chance to try the famously fresh **shirasu**, tiny transparent fish, delicacies sold by local vendors. Insider tip: Keep an eye out for the opportunities to spot Mount Fuji on a clear day!

The Right Time to Cruise Japan

The best times to cruise Japan are during the **spring (March to May)** and **autumn (September to November)** when temperatures range between **10°C and 25°C**. These months allow you to experience breathtaking cherry blossoms or vibrant autumn leaves, making your cruise even more memorable. Summer brings hotter weather, often above **30°C**, while winter can be quite cold. If you want to avoid the crowds and peak prices, aim for the shoulder seasons.

Cost of Cruising in Japan

A one-week cruise to Japan generally ranges from **$1,600 to $2,800** for a standard cruise, with two-week options reaching **$3,000 to $6,000**. Luxury cruises start around **$5,000** for one week. Prices tend to be lower during the off-peak months, particularly in the winter, while the most expensive times are typically during **cherry blossom season** (April) and **golden week** (early May). Dining out will generally cost around **$15 to $40** per meal, depending on whether you choose street food or dine at a bar or restaurant.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Itineraries to Japan

• Princess Cruises: With a fleet of **17 ships**, **two** of them cruise to Japan. The **Diamond Princess** and **Discovery Princess** both have frequent itineraries that set sail primarily from **Yokohama (Tokyo)** or **Seattle**. Known for outstanding service and onboard entertainment, Princess offers enriching shore excursions tailored to experience the very best of Japan’s culture and history.
• Royal Caribbean Cruises: This line features **29 ships**, with **four** focused on Japan. The **Spectrum of the Seas** and **Ovation of the Seas** typically depart from **Shanghai** or **Hong Kong**. Royal Caribbean is popular for its family-friendly atmosphere and thrilling onboard activities, making it perfect for cruisers of all ages seeking adventure!
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Boasting **20 ships**, **three** offer itineraries to Japan. The **Norwegian Spirit** and **Norwegian Sun** cruise frequently depart from **Seoul** or **Tokyo**. Norwegian Cruise Line is celebrated for the “freestyle cruising” concept, allowing guests flexibility when it comes to dining and activities.
• MSC Cruises: With a fleet of **23 ships**, **two** sail to Japan, including the **MSC Bellissima** and **MSC Magnifica**. Departing often from **Tokyo** or **Keelung**, MSC provides a comprehensive cruise experience featuring international dining and various onboard activities, catering to a wide range of guests.
• Holland America Line: Their fleet consists of **11 ships**, with **two** focused on Japan, particularly the **Westerdam** and **Noordam**. Departing mainly from **Yokohama (Tokyo)** or **Hong Kong**, Holland America is known for its upscale cruising experience, featuring enrichment programs and impressive dining selections, all to enhance your travel experience in Japan.

Luxury and Small Ship Options

• Oceania Cruises: This cruise line has **eight ships**, with **four** offering itineraries to Japan. The **Riviera** and **Regatta** typically cruise from **Tokyo** or **Singapore**. Oceania is renowned for its culinary excellence, with gourmet dining options and an emphasis on destination-rich itineraries.
• Silversea: This luxury cruise line consists of **13 ships**, and **five** of them visit Japan. The **Silver Nova** and **Silver Moon** frequently depart from **Tokyo** or **Hong Kong**. Silversea is known for its intimate onboard experience with highly personalised service, ensuring every guest feels truly pampered throughout their journey.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises: With a fleet of **six ships**, **two** dedicate their journeys to Japan. The **Seven Seas Explorer** and **Seven Seas Mariner** operate frequently from **Tokyo** or **Vancouver**. Regent offers an all-inclusive luxury experience covering excursions, fine dining, premium beverages, and more—making sure you experience the best of Japan.
• Viking Ocean Cruises: This line boasts **11 ships**, and **two** explore Japan frequently. The **Viking Orion** and **Viking Venus** usually depart from **Sydney** or **Vancouver**. Viking is loved for its culturally immersive experiences with every itinerary, allowing cruisers to delve deep into the local nature, history, and culture.
• Seabourn: This luxury line features **six ships**, **three** of which focus on Japan. The **Seabourn Quest** and **Seabourn Sojourn** usually set sail from **Yokohama** or **Kobe**. Seabourn is celebrated for its unique itineraries and ultra-luxurious onboard offerings, making it the perfect choice for discerning travellers looking to indulge.

Explore Alternative Regions

If you’re considering a cruise to Japan but would like to explore other remarkable regions, here are five alternatives to consider:

• Southern Europe: A charming blend of stunning coastlines, rich history, and excellent food and wine experiences awaits those who crave Mediterranean vibes.
• Asia: Explore the wonders of countries like Thailand or Vietnam, offering vibrant cultures and breathtaking landscapes, ideal for enthusiasts of exotic locales.
• Eastern Mediterranean: This region is known for its beautiful islands and historic sites, perfect for those searching for a unique blend of sun and culture.
• North America: Offering a mix of stunning landscapes, lively cities, and rich indigenous culture, this region provides a fantastic variety for cruisers interested in the great outdoors.
• Caribbean: Swap the tranquility of cherry blossoms for pristine beaches, vibrant nightlife, and a relaxed island vibe that vacationers adore!

Japan invites adventurers to explore its captivating culture, incredible cuisine, and stunning landscapes. With CruiseAway, your journey to this extraordinary destination is just a click away. Embark on the cruise of a lifetime today!