Following the recent decision by the Japanese government to allow international cruise ships to return to Japan, Princess Cruises has announced it will be homeporting in Japan starting March 15, 2023.
Japanese-built ship Diamond Princess will be returning to celebrate the 10th anniversary of sailing from Yokohama — near Tokyo — and Kobe, starting with a nine-day roundtrip voyage from Tokyo. The ship, which was designed for Japanese voyages, will call to 38 destinations in four countries on 43 unique itineraries ranging from five to 19 days.
Highlights of Princess Cruises’ upcoming Japan schedule include:
- Temples, Shrines, and Castles: Guests delight in the abundance of beautiful temples and shrines, like the 16th 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. Guests can also watch a display of 10,000 fireworks during the Kumano Fireworks Festival.
- Vibrant Cities and Landscapes: Cities where the 21st 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 take in Mount Fuji, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial, and the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto.
- Spring Flowers, Gardens, and Onsens: Travelers soak in spring flowers all of Japan during spring, whether it’s visiting a classic Japanese garden, seeing hundreds of sakura (cherry blossoms) while picnicking, enjoying tranquil parks, or soaking in the healing benefits of a geothermal “onsen” natural hot spring bath.
Those with more time to explore Japan can consider Princess Cruises’ 13 or 14-day Highlights of Japan cruisetours, featuring a multiple-night land tour combined with a cruise for more time to experience Tokyo and Kyoto.
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