Princess Cruises Plans Largest Japan Season in 2027

The Diamond Princess cruise ship at sea at sunset
Cruise Industry Asia
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Updated Published

Princess Cruises has unveiled plans for its most expansive Japan cruise season to date, set to launch in 2027 with both the Diamond Princess and Sapphire Princess sailing from the Tokyo area.

The upcoming season, running from March through December, includes 78 sailings across 50 distinct itineraries. Voyages will range in length from seven to 28 days, and bookings will open to the public on August 20, 2025.

Diverse Itineraries and Cultural Highlights

The 2027 program spans 45 ports across six countries, with notable cruise themes such as:

  • Cherry Blossom Voyages (9–24 days): Timed with the blooming season, these cruises travel from Japan’s southern to northern regions across all four main islands.
  • Festival Cruises (8–24 days): Aligning with Japan’s iconic summer festivals like Aomori Nebuta, Tokushima Awa Odori, and Kochi Yosakoi, these cruises include late-night port stays.
  • Circle and Grand Japan Voyages (9–28 days): Comprehensive sailings around Japan, including stops in cities like Osaka, Hiroshima, and Nagasaki.
  • Okinawa & Taiwan Routes (9–18 days): Featuring tropical landscapes and cultural sites in places like Taipei and Hualien.
  • Japan Explorer Cruises (9–13 days): Designed to showcase destinations like Mt. Fuji from Shimizu, Kyoto via Kobe, and Kagoshima.

Festival Experiences and Iconic Destinations

Travelers will have the chance to experience seven local festivals during late-night port calls, such as:

  • Aomori Nebuta (Aug 2 & 7)
  • Hakodate Minato (Aug 3)
  • Akita Kanto (Aug 6)
  • Yamagata Hanagasa (Aug 7)
  • Kochi Yosakoi Dance (Aug 12)
  • Tokushima Awa Odori (Aug 13)
  • Kumano Fireworks (Aug 17)

Guests will also enjoy overnight stays and extended port visits in Osaka, Hiroshima, and Sakata, and explore 21 UNESCO World Heritage sites, including:

  • Mount Fuji (from Shimizu)
  • Hiroshima Peace Memorial & Itsukushima Shrine
  • Historic Kyoto (from Osaka or Kobe)
  • Jomon Prehistoric Sites (from Aomori or Hakodate)

Scenic Cruising and Cultural Immersion

Sailing highlights include scenic cruising past Mt. Fuji, through the Kanmon Straits, the Inland Sea of Japan, and views of Sakurajima Volcano from Kagoshima Bay. Ashore, guests can explore traditional Zen gardens, Ginza’s bustling districts, local fish markets, and memorial landmarks.

Onboard, passengers will enjoy regional cuisine like sushi and ramen, sample Japanese whiskey, sake, and shochu, and experience cultural performances such as rakugo storytelling and folk dancing. Karaoke and themed entertainment are also part of the programming.

Booking Offers

Those who book by August 26, 2025, will be eligible for up to $200 off per stateroom through the Captain’s Circle loyalty discount.

Princess Cruises' expanded Japan offering in 2027 promises a culturally rich, immersive, and unforgettable cruising experience across one of Asia’s most compelling destinations.