princess cruises korea and japan

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古くからの土地と美しい自然がはぐくんだ伝統・伝承にひたる

Take in all the sights of Tokyo on a cruise to Japan. As the country’s capital city, Tokyo is Japan’s leading center of business and finance yet also boasts deep roots in history. In the heart of the city, a dense forest glade shrouds visitors from the bustle and houses the Meiji Shrine, its setting symbolizing the separation of the spiritual from the worldly. Nearby, surrounded by stone walls, park area and moats, stands the Imperial Palace. With the Tokyo Tower and Mt. Fuji in view, experience the harmony of modern and ancient on a cruisetour of Japan.

Highlights of Japan Cruisetours

日本の一番北に位置する島、北海道の海岸を回るマジカル・クルーズに出発しませんか。奈良の荘厳な東大寺と美しい春日大社を訪れてみましょう。地上350mのところに位置する東京スカイツリーの展望デッキからこの都市を眺めてみてください。金閣寺と二条城を訪れると、京都の息をのむほどの美しさが体験できます。

日本は対照について学べる場所です。見事な神社仏閣の頭上に摩天楼がそびえ立つ都会から一歩出ると、深い美しさに包まれた静寂な土地が広がっています。Neon-bright architecture and tranquil gardens vie for attention amid the colorful Harajuku district and traditional kimonos. As the No. 1 North American cruise line in Japan with the “Best Asia Itineraries † ,” you can be assured that Princess® will be your guide to the colors, cultures and flavors that define this exciting country.

† PORTHOLEマガジン

東京の文化体験で茶道、書道、日本の精神を学びましょう。通常の観光ルートから外れて、石垣島の海岸からほど近い伝統的な琉球の村が美しく維持されている竹富島を訪ねてみませんか。高知ではヘルメットとヘッドランプを装着して、国の天然記念物、龍河洞の自然の不思議を探検しましょう。鹿児島では17世紀の庭園を散歩し、薩摩藩島津家の歴史博物館で700年の歴史を振り返ってみましょう。

写真: 京都の仏教寺院

Princess Cruises is a proud partner of the  Japan National Tourism Organization .

Japan Cruise Departure Port

東京（横浜）発のクルーズ.

地球上で東京ほど愛しい過去を大切にしつつ未来をしっかり見据えている都市は、他にはないように思われます。興味深い建築から手入れの行き届いた庭園や神社仏閣まで、東京はいつでも喜びとインスピレーションを与えてくれます。東京最古の寺である浅草寺の不思議な伝説を聞いたり、伝統的な茶道プレゼンテーションで素晴らしい1碗をいただいたり、有名な富士箱根伊豆国立公園内で硫黄の温泉を見学したりしませんか。

Let Your Japan Cruise Journey Begin

ライフスタイル＆カルチャー.

大阪では、ユネスコ無形文化財に指定されている伝統的な文楽をお楽しみください。静岡市清水区では、枝編細工のバスケットを持って茶畑に出て茶摘みを体験しましょう。青森では温泉の健康効果と社交的な雰囲気を堪能してください。鹿児島の焼酎蔵を見学し、穀物と野菜が日本の薬酒・蒸留酒に変貌する過程を学びましょう。

写真: 東京の足湯温泉

日本の活火山であり、国内でもっとも人気の観光地でもある霊峰富士を一望にすると、その神聖さが体感できます。ゴジラ岩と伝説の生き物ナマハゲで有名な秋田県男鹿半島の雄大な景色をご堪能ください。Take in the sheer magnificence of Shiretoko Peninsula, an acclaimed  Condé Nast Traveler  7 Cruise Wonders of the World – it may just leave you breathless.

Festivals and unique experiences

Japan is a land of festivals and on select sailings you can experience the mesmerizing spectacle known as the Awa Odori Dance Festival in Tokushima, gaze in awe at the Kumano Grand Festival of fireworks, or get an up-close look at the exquisite parade floats used in Aomori’s annual Nebuta festival.

写真: 青森のねぶた祭

日本クルーズは船上も充実

「アジアにおけるベストクルーズライン」賞に輝いたプリンセス®で行く日本への旅では、デスティネーションに負けないほど素晴らしい旅を体験できます。日本クルーズは、乗船した瞬間から日本の様々な景色、音、味を感じ取ることができます。400年の歴史を持つ落語をお楽しみください。夜にはカラオケを歌い、民族舞踊を見れば、日本の文化が理解できることでしょう。ムービーズ・アンダー・ザ・スターズ®では日本関連の映画をご覧いただけます。ヌードル・バーで美味しい地元の料理を食べたり、寿司に舌鼓を打ったりしませんか。日本のウィスキー、酒、焼酎などの酒類もお試しください。 †

写真: 船上のエンターテイメントに出演する日本の歌手たち

† 一部の旅程で提供されています。

ランドマーク＆文化的傑作

日本の重要文化財に指定されている高知城は、元々の木板造りの内装、天守閣、荘厳な入口が当時のまま保存されている唯一の城です。5,500年前の集落跡である国の特別史跡の青森三内丸山遺跡を見学して、古代日本に思いを馳せてみましょう。東京タワーの特別展望台から東京と富士山を見渡すことができます。金沢城にほど近いところにある長町武家屋敷跡では、細く曲がりくねった道を歩いてみたくなります。

Admire the delicate work of 19th century "ukiyo-e," traditional woodblock prints, with a tour of Shimizu's Tokaido Hiroshige Art Museum. Continue your artistic journey as modern bronze statues depicting the spirit monsters known as "yokai,' greet you along the streets of Sakaiminato.

写真: Traditional Japanese 'ukiyo-e' woodblock painting

The Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto (Kyoto, Uji, and Otsu Cities) is comprised of 17 locations in Japan within Kyoto and vicinity; including 13 Buddhist temples, 3 Shinto Shrines and one castle. The Hiroshima Peace Memorial (Genbaku Dome) is the only structure that survived the first atomic bomb (08/06/45), it has been preserved in the same state as immediately after the bombing. Nara (30 minutes from downtown Osaka) is home to 8 UNESCO sites, many conveniently located in the city center.

Japan Cruise Travel Articles

A cruise to Japan will unveil the world's oldest cultures and most modern metropolises, featuring intricate designs and sweeping vistas.

Explore Tokyo's Gardens on a Cruise to Japan

Hidden within the radiant lights and exhilarating sounds of Tokyo are tranquil garden sanctuaries. Put one on your must-see list when you cruise to Japan.

Planning a Japan Vacation: Three Must-See Cultural Attractions

Planning a Japan vacation? Put these three must-see attractions on your itinerary as you cruise Japan.

Meaningful Experiences on Japan Cruises: Discover the History of Japan Through Its Majestic Architecture

Japan cruises will afford you a unique look into Japanese culture with visits to famous national treasures such as the Golden Pavilion and Nijo Castle.

3 South Korean Temples to Visit on a Korea and Japan Cruise

Enjoy the tranquility that surrounds these three famous South Korean temples on your next Japan cruise to Korea.

旅行、航空運賃、ホテル：プリンセスがお連れします

プリンセスEZair®（フライト予約）（※日本では対象外）

Stress-free airfare

Remove the hassle from air travel and give yourself the gift of flexibility, time and a thicker wallet with Princess EZair flights. We negotiate lower rates with the airlines, allow you to modify your flight up to 45 days prior with no penalty and protect you if your flight is late or canceled.

EZairのフライト見積料金は、クルーズ検索結果の詳細ページで閲覧可能です。

飛行機から船へのトランスファー

プリンセスを通して航空券のご予約をされていない場合でも、空港から客船またはホテルまでの送迎はプリンセスにお任せください。手荷物を受け取った後は、制服を着たプリンセスの係員が空港でお客様をお迎えし、客船またはホテルまで送り届けますので、知らない街での移動に頭を悩ませることはありません。

クルーズ・プラス・ホテル・パッケージ

滞在を延長してさらにリラックス

Extend your cruise vacation, and simplify your travel plans with a hotel stay at the beginning or end of your cruise. クルーズ・プラス・ホテル・パッケージでは、プリンセスの係員が空港または埠頭でお客様をお迎えし、ホテルまで、またはホテルからお連れします。The package includes the cost of your hotel stay, transportation, luggage handling and the services of the representative.

プランニングのヘルプが必要ですか？

プリンセス・クルーズ バケーションプランナーは、お客様のクルーズバケーションのプランニングを1ステップずつお手伝いする専用リソースです。このサービスは無料です。

割引クルーズ・キャンペーン

様々なデスティネーション行きのトップセール、キャンペーン、パートナーシップ、プロモーションはすべて一箇所で検索できます。プリンセスは年間を通じてプロモーションを行う、時折賞品が当たる抽選も開催しています。

Asia Cruises

Discover the allure of unique culture and history on an asia cruise.

Home to some of the world's oldest civilizations, Asia is a harmony of countless cultures and histories, frenetic cities, tranquil landscapes, and mesmerizing temples and shrines. A Princess® cruise to Asia is not just a journey from one exciting port to another, it's an invitation to explore some of the world's most remarkable destinations on one unforgettable vacation. Cruise over Tokyo's famed Hakone National Park in a gondola, discover Hong Kong's vibrant nightlife, or cruise along Singapore's scenic river with stops at two of the city's oldest temples. Let Princess whisk you away to some of the world’s most intriguing destinations on an Asia cruise.

Watch Asia videos: Asia & Japan video

Most frequently asked questions about Asia (PDF)

Experience a world of enchanting islands with spellbinding names and beaches like Shek O Beach, Big Wave Bay, and Chung Hom Kok Beach; where you can soothe your soul, bask in the sunshine and wiggle your toes in golden sand. Explore cities like Singapore and Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) – thriving, vibrant and innovative cities of commerce rooted in culture where the finest restaurants, boutiques, temples, and designer malls lay beneath 21st century skyscrapers.

Find Cruises   Learn More

Japan Cruises

Stretching out over 1,860 miles, the Japanese archipelago is a place of beauty, mystery and history with cities as diverse as its landscape. Marvel at the exhilarating sights and sounds of Tokyo. From its intricate architecture to its beautifully maintained gardens, shrines and temples, Tokyo consistently delights and inspires. Walk in the footsteps of the samurai in Akita's well-preserved Kakunodate Samurai District.Soak up the awe-inspiring vistas of Otaru's mountainous Shakotan Peninsula and join in Akita's enchanting Kakunodate Cherry Blossom Festival.

Asia Cruise Departure Ports

Sailings from the ports of Singapore, Tokyo, Kobe and Hong Kong offer an easy and convenient way to discover Asia's stunning landmarks, explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and meet friendly villagers and city dwellers. From Taiwan’s hallowed temples and Tokyo's dizzying collection of skyscrapers, to 3rd century Ikuta Shrine in Kobe, a world of life-enriching adventures awaits.

Onboard Exclusives

Asia Cruise Food & Beverage

When it comes to dining on board, you get to experience both delicious regional dishes to try and familiar favorites you'll love. Sip and savor local delicacies, such as fresh sushi, a variety of authentic noodles and fine Japanese whiskeys.

Our cuisine is prepared from scratch, using regionally sourced ingredients — from the stocks that make up the soups and sauces in the main dining room, to fresh sashimi at Kai Sushi, Tako Sunomono (mirin-marinated octopus, wakame and sliced cucumber), the delicious desserts, and hand-tossed pizza named “Best Pizza at Sea” by USA TODAY . You'll be able to taste the freshness and care that goes into every dish.

Asia Cruise Activities

Day or night, there are plenty of opportunities to discover unique experiences that provide you with a new perspective on the region. On select Princess® cruises, your immersion in Asia continues on board with a mix of Western and Asian entertainment, astounding Magic Illusion shows, and visually impactful guest entertainers and production shows. †

Discover More Ashore with Princess

Asia Cruise Excursions

Whether you prefer your activities fast and furious or slow and steady, Princess® offers a vast array of award-winning excursions that provide unique experiences you'll never forget. Take a ride on an aerial ropeway up the sacred and snow-capped Mount Fuji, or journey to Jade Emperor Pagoda, one of Ho Chi Minh City's most atmospheric temples.

With our More Ashore program, select destinations include a host of late night departures and overnight adventures so you'll have even more opportunities to experience the colors, cultures and flavors of the region. In Hong Kong, take in the “Symphony of Light” multimedia spectacle that lights up the night, or learn the art of Vietnamese cuisine with a cooking and food decorating class in Ho Chi Minh City.

Learn more about Shore Excursions

Asia Cruisetours

Princess Cruisetours offer the ultimate adventure, combining a cruise with a multiple-night land tour. Enjoy ample time exploring such iconic sights as Tokyo's Mount Fuji or Kyoto's stunning castles.

Find Cruisetours   Learn More

Let Princess Get You There

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Japan and South Korea Cruise: A Dream World, in Real Life

By Andrea Whittle

My younger sister and I had talked about going to Japan together ever since we were 11 and 6, and were first transported to Hayao Miyazaki’s fantastical, spirit-filled Japanese countryside in his animated film My Neighbor Totoro. The two protagonists—also sisters—were fearless explorers, running wild in the woods. Fifteen years later, we got to play out a grown-up version of the scenes that had shaped our imaginations. A seven-night trip on Princess Cruises’ Diamond Princess last spring started and ended in Tokyo, and stopped at three ports along the northern coast of Honshu, and in Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city—a place we’d never have thought to go but that wound up being a highlight of the trip. Though the minute-to-minute schedule of a cruise took some getting used to, that structure actually gave us the confidence to be a little more spontaneous with our time onshore. We took full advantage of the bus tours when we thought it would be tricky to get around otherwise, but we’d also go off on our own and spend hours sifting through curio shops or exploring overgrown gardens without encountering another person squinting at Google Maps. There were moments when we felt like we were in a spirit world of our own. Here’s what we discovered along the way.

BUSAN Our guide took us to the middle of the maze that is Gukje Market (above), where we peeled off from the group to hit Olive Young, a massive K-beauty emporium where we went a little overboard buying sheet masks and lip balms. Another highlight: Splitting a hotteok (a sweet, dense pancake filled with nuts, seeds and brown sugar) from one of the carts lined up at the main intersection. We picked the one with the biggest crowd around it, and it was totally delicious.

MATSUE From the dock in Sakaiminato, we hopped on the local bus to the storybook city of Matsue to see its medieval castle (above) surrounded by a network of canals. We checked out the views from the top floor, then crossed the footbridge to eat soba at the tourist-free Yakumoan. Along that same stretch, there's also an antique shop and a little boutique where we bought handmade ceramic cups.

TSURUGA It’s an hour’s drive from the port to Eihei-ji (above), a 13th-century Zen Buddhist temple and monastery with worn wooden staircases and gently sloping roofs, where we saw monks chanting in the main hall. On that mountain shaded by 100-foot-tall cedar trees, I almost felt like we were in the Swiss Alps.

Shannon McMahon

Chris Schalkx

Mark Ellwood

Alex Erdekian

AKITA The thing to do here is to get out of the city and take one of the cruise-led tour buses into the mountains. Lake Tazawa (above) is a deep turquoise caldera with views of snow-capped peaks, where you can rent kayaks or bikes.

TOKYO The city bookended our trip, so we had plenty of time to decompress in the rooftop onsen at the Hoshinoya hotel; browse the books and illustrated zines at Daikanyama T-Site (above); and buy vintage skirts and kitschy sushi magnets on Takeshita Street, in Harajuku.

Recommended

The Tokyo EDITION, Ginza

Trunk(Hotel) Yoyogi Park, Tokyo

Asia Travel Guide

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18 Night Far East Cruise

Best known for the Pacific Princess on the Love Boat, Princess Cruises has been a leading name in cruising and visits a wide range of destinations.

Bring the Far East and the oriental treasures it holds a little closer with a cruise to Southeast Asia and India.

Tokyo is a dazzling city where you might be overwhelmed at first by its modernity but will find lots of interesting subcultures in its various neighborhoods.

• Diamond Princess - Passenger Capacity: 2,670 (double occupancy) Year Built: 2004 Last Refurbished: 2019

Take advantage of limited-time offers and special deals

Cruise Line

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Diamond Princess

Departing From

Tokyo, Japan

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Ports of call.

Tokyo, Japan , Kushiro, Japan , Hakodate, Japan , Otaru, Japan , Jeju Island South Korea , Kagoshima, Kyushu, Japan , Busan (Kyongju), South Korea , Akita, Japan , Aomori, Japan

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18 Night Far East Cruise sailing on the Diamond Princess

Departure dates: jun 2024 - jun 2025.

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*** All itineraries are subject to change without notice. Please confirm your itinerary on the Review page before purchasing your cruise.

Rates & offers are subject to select dates & categories, cruise only, per person, based on double occupancy, in US Dollars, & include NCCF. Government taxes & fees are additional. All rates & offers are capacity controlled, are subject to availability & confirmation, & may change without notice. Additional restrictions may apply. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed -- please confirm details at time of booking. Stateroom photos are for sample purposes only -- actual design and layout may vary.

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Asia Africa and Middle East: Kyushu and Korea Cruise

7-night diamond princess cruise.

From $1,298 per person* Additional government taxes, fees and port expenses per person: $105

Princess Cruises

Immerse yourself in astounding cities where the 21st century coexists with the spirit of ancient Japan. Visit ports of call including Jeju, Kagoshima, and Shimizu. Be dazzled by panoramic views of Mount Fuji, an active volcano and the most popular tourist site in the country.

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Sailing Itinerary

Note: Cruise itineraries are subject to change. Please verify ports and times directly with the cruise line.

Port of Call Port of Call (Arrival, Departure)

Yokohama is often called the Garden City, though its name actually means "City by the Bay." Its waterfront area provides a port to the rest of the world as well as beautiful beaches. The waterfront district has unique arts galleries and boutiques and one of the largest Chinatown areas in Japan. Yokohama is the home of Japan's Central Baseball League and Japan's first coffee shop. There is even an indoor beach with sand and water and waves! The second largest city in Japan, Yokohama is home to 3 million people and is a growing, innovative business center. Its large, accessible port has made it Japan's largest international trading center. It certainly maintains its own identity and does not fall into the shadow of Tokyo, a mere 18.6 miles (30 kilometers) from Tokyo.

Nagasaki is the capital and the largest city of Nagasaki Prefecture located at the south-western coast of Kyushu. Nagasaki lies at the head of a long bay which forms the best natural harbor on the southern Japanese home island of Kyushu. The main commercial and residential area of the city lies on a small plain near the end of the bay. Two rivers divided by a mountain spur form the two main valleys in which the city lies. The heavily built-up area of the city is confined by the terrain to less than 4 square miles out of a total of about 35 square miles in the city as a whole. The city was rebuilt after the war, albeit dramatically changed, as any city would be after such colossal damage. New temples were built and new churches as well, since the Christian presence never died out and even increased dramatically after the war. Some of the rubble was left as a memorial, such as a one-legged torii gate and a stone arch near ground zero. New structures were also raised as memorials, such as the Atomic Bomb Museum. Nagasaki remains first and foremost a port city, supporting a rich shipping industry and setting a strong example of perseverance and peace.

Jeju Island is the perfect get away destination for travelers to Korea. Jeju is an island shrouded in mystery, culture and tradition which is best experienced by the wonderful sites around the island. These sites are set amongst some of the most beautiful surroundings in all of Korea whilst still keeping their traditional identity. You can experience first hand the natural beauty of Jeju such as lush subtropical forests, lava caves of all shapes, sizes and lengths, sandy beaches, spectacular craters and also be awed by the grand Halla Mountain poised silently in the middle of the Island.

Kagoshima is a bright sunny tropical city. Tourists can see smoke coming from the magnificent Mt. Sakurajima across Kinko Bay. The city has been known as the Naples of the Orient for many years. It prospered as a castle town of the powerful Lord Shimazu, who had 770 thousand "koku" of rice during the Edo Period. The city still maintains the strong spirit of Takamori Saigo and Toshimichi Okubo, heroes of the Meiji Restoration. The most famous historical spot related to them is the extensive Iso Garden, former villa of Lord Shimazu. The garden´s pond is representative of Kinko Bay, which is north of downtown, and the hill is representative of Mt. Sakurajima. Sightseeing spots in the city are mostly related to Lord Shimazu and Takamori Saigo. Tsurumaru Castle (Reimei Hall), where Lord Shimazu lived, the great view from Shiroyama, where the last fort of the Saigo army was located during the Satsuma Rebellion, Nanshu Cavern, where Saigo barricaded himself, Nanshu Cemetery, where the dead from the Satsuma Rebellion are buried, and the high-tech Museum of the Meiji Restoration (Ishin Furusato-kan) are located along the Kotsuki River. The museum has information about places where Saigo, Okubo, Iwao Oyama, and Heihachiro Togo were born. Tenmonkan in the downtown area offers all types of souvenirs, including Kagoshima dishes such as sakezushi, pork bone, and kibinago, as well as shochu, Kagoshima Ramen, Satsumayaki, satsumaage, and karukan.

Blessed with a mild climate throughout the year, Shimizu is known for producing mandarin oranges, tea, and strawberries. On the coast, there is a pine-tree grove on a sand spit called Miho no Matsubara and which is often mentioned in legends. From the small mountain called Nihondaira tourists can enjoy a superb view of Mt. Fuji and the light-filled city at night. Picking strawberries during the winter and spring months is a popular pastime.

Onboard the Diamond Princess

Diamond Princess

Costco Member Reviews

• Year Built: 2004
• Year Refurbished: 2014

Double Occupancy Capacity: 2670

Diamond Princess® is a luxury destination in itself. Take in the view from one of nearly 750 balcony staterooms. Indulge in a hot stone massage at the renowned Lotus Spa®, enjoy fine dining in a formal or relaxed atmosphere and make it a cruise to remember.

Member reviews become available after at least 5 are received in order to provide you with an accurate picture of this travel product.

Onboard Activities

Activities & services (included in cruise).

• Disco/Nightclub
• Game Arcade
• Movies Under the Stars®
• Theater/Show Lounge
• Beauty Salon
• Fitness Center
• Fitness Classes
• Miniature Golf
• Pool - Adults Only
• Pool - Children's
• Pool - Outdoor
• Pool - Indoor
• Pool - Indoor/Covered
• Sports Facilities
• Whirlpool/Jacuzzi
• Art Gallery
• Bars/Lounges
• Children's Indoor Play Area
• Children's Outdoor Play Area
• Educational Classes
• Organized Age Specific Activities
• Teen Center or Disco
• Teen Programs
• Business Center
• Duty-Free Shops/Boutiques
• Infirmary/Medical Center
• Religious Services
• Self-Service Laundromat
• Wedding/Vow Renewal

Activities & Services (available for an extra fee)

• Full-Service Spa
• Spa Services/Massage
• Sauna/Steam Room
• Educational Programs
• Internet Center
• Babysitting
• Dry Cleaning/ Laundry Service

Dining Room

Main Dining

International Dining Room:  After final payment, through the MedallionClass® app, you may request your dining preference with Dine My Way℠. Customize your dining experiences nightly by choosing your seating time, dining companions and dietary needs.

Pacific Moon Dining Room:  After final payment, through the MedallionClass® app, you may request your dining preference with Dine My Way℠. Customize your dining experiences nightly by choosing your seating time, dining companions and dietary needs.

Santa Fe Dining Room:  After final payment, through the MedallionClass® app, you may request your dining preference with Dine My Way℠. Customize your dining experiences nightly by choosing your seating time, dining companions and dietary needs.

Savoy Dining Room:  After final payment, through the MedallionClass® app, you may request your dining preference with Dine My Way℠. Customize your dining experiences nightly by choosing your seating time, dining companions and dietary needs.

Vivaldi Dining Room:  After final payment, through the MedallionClass® app, you may request your dining preference with Dine My Way℠. Customize your dining experiences nightly by choosing your seating time, dining companions and dietary needs.

Specialty Dining

Chef’s Table Experience:  Taking dining to a new level, the Chef’s Table Experience includes pre-dinner cocktails and hors d’oeuvres in the galley for you and a limited number of fellow guests. After your executive chef describes the specially designed menu for the night, participants are escorted to an intimate table for the main course, including pairing suggestions. This restaurant is available for an additional cost. Limited capacity, reservations required.

Kai Sushi:  An exquisitely decorated traditional sushi bar, serving up sushi and sashimi expertly prepared before your eyes. Dine at the sushi bar or enjoy an elegant restaurant experience. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.

Sabatini's:  An upscale authentic Italian dining experience in a remarkable eight-course meal. The menu features both local seafood specialties and other regional favorites. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.

Sterling Steakhouse℠:  An upscale and more refined approach to the traditional steakhouse, this venue features some of the best, most tender cuts of beef, such as New York and porterhouse, plus a prime rib carving station. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.

Prego Pizzeria

Casual Dining

Chocolate Journeys℠:  There are few foods that inspire as much passion as chocolate, and master chocolatier Norman Love has designed some of the most decadent, hand-crafted treats exclusively for Princess' Chocolate Journeys℠ program. Trained in France, and named the Inaugural Inductee into the Chocolatier Hall of Fame by Dessert Professional Magazine, Chef Love combined premium quality chocolate with unique flavors and artful designs to mastermind his exclusive creations found throughout the ship.

Crafted by Curtis Stone:  In the Main Dining Room, savor fresh new cuisine designed by award-winning Chef Curtis Stone during every voyage. Personal reflections on the menu by Chef Stone elaborate on each "Crafted" selection, prepared with the most authentic ingredients. Be enticed by dishes featuring delicious meats and seafood, fresh produce and vibrant, bold flavors.

Horizon Court:  24-hour casual buffet dining.

La Patisserie:  Casual sidewalk café-style setting for cappuccino, espresso and other coffee specialties, as well as fresh pastries throughout the day. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.

Prego Pizzeria:  Poolside pizzeria serving fresh pizza by the slice.

Trident Grill:  Follow your nose to the Trident Grill where the burgers are flipping and the hotdogs roasting, served with a variety of fixin’s and crisp fries. Veggie burgers, bratwurst and grilled chicken breast are also served and all are sure to hit the spot when you are relaxing out on deck.

Room Service:  Call for room service delivery or order through OceanNow® in the Princess® MedallionClass® app at any time of the day or night. Guests with the latest Princess Plus and Princess Premier packages enjoy OceanNow® and room service delivery with no charge. Otherwise, a one-time access fee of $14.99 per person per voyage will apply for OceanNow® delivery and a $5 room service fee will apply for each order placed by stateroom phone. To order, guests can press the "Room Service" button on their stateroom phone, or order through OceanNow®.

Disclaimer regarding ship dining

Inside Stateroom

Ocean view stateroom, balcony stateroom, suite stateroom, interior (category: ia).

Category: IA Approximately 168 sq. ft., this well-appointed interior stateroom provides fine amenities.

Interior (Category: IB)

Category: IB Approximately 168 to 182 sq. ft., this well-appointed interior stateroom provides fine amenities.

Interior (Category: IC)

Category: IC Approximately 168 to 182 sq. ft., this well-appointed interior stateroom provides fine amenities.

Interior (Category: ID)

Category: ID Approximately 168 sq. ft., this well-appointed interior stateroom provides fine amenities.

Interior (Category: IE)

Category: IE Approximately 168 sq. ft., this well-appointed interior stateroom provides fine amenities.

Interior (Category: IF)

Category: IF Approximately 168 sq. ft., this well-appointed interior stateroom provides fine amenities.

Nicely-appointed staterooms feature a picture window, spacious closet and bathroom with shower.

Premium Oceanview (Category: O5)

Category: O5 Approximately 200 sq. ft., this well-appointed stateroom features a forward-facing cabin for memorable views.

Oceanview (Category: OC)

Category: OC Approximately 194 sq. ft., this well-appointed stateroom features a picture window for memorable views.

Oceanview (Category: OF)

Category: OF Approximately 183 to 194 sq. ft., this well-appointed stateroom features a picture window for memorable views.

Oceanview (obstructed view) (Category: OV)

Category: OV Approximately 183 sq. ft., this well-appointed stateroom features a picture window with an obstructed view.

Oceanview (obstructed view) (Category: OW)

Category: OW Approximately 183 sq. ft., this well-appointed stateroom features a picture window with an obstructed view.

Oceanview (obstructed view) (Category: OY)

Category: OY Approximately 183 sq. ft., this well-appointed stateroom features a picture window with an obstructed view.

Oceanview (obstructed view) (Category: OZ)

Category: OZ Approximately 183 sq. ft., this well-appointed stateroom features a picture window with an obstructed view.

Staterooms feature a private balcony, spacious walk-in closet, desk and bathroom with shower.

Premium Balcony (Category: B2)

Category: B2 Approximately 277 sq. ft. including balcony, this cabin provides outstanding views from a private balcony.

Premium Balcony (Category: B4)

Category: B4 Approximately 237 to 277 sq. ft. including balcony, this cabin provides dramatic wake views from a rear-facing private balcony.

Balcony (Category: BA)

Category: BA Approximately 237 sq. ft. including balcony, this cabin provides outstanding views from a private balcony.

Balcony (Category: BB)

Category: BB Approximately 237 sq. ft. including balcony, this cabin provides outstanding views from a private balcony.

Balcony (Category: BC)

Category: BC Approximately 237 sq. ft. including balcony, this cabin provides outstanding views from a private balcony.

Balcony (Category: BD)

Category: BD Approximately 237 to 277 sq. ft. including balcony, this cabin provides outstanding views from a private balcony.

Balcony (Category: BE)

Category: BE Approximately 237 to 277 sq. ft. including balcony, this stateroom provides outstanding views from a private balcony.

Balcony (Category: BF)

Category: BF Approximately 237 sq. ft. including balcony, this cabin provides outstanding views from a private balcony.

Features private balcony and sitting room, two TVs, walk-in closet and bathroom with tub and shower.

Premium Mini-Suite with Balcony (Category: M1)

Category: M1 Approximately 354 sq. ft. including balcony, this spacious cabin provides a seating area with sofa bed, and full bath with combination tub and shower.

Mini-Suite with Balcony (Category: MB)

Category: MB Approximately 354 sq. ft. including balcony, this spacious cabin provides a seating area with sofa bed, and full bath with combination tub and shower.

Mini-Suite with Balcony (Category: MD)

Category: MD Approximately 354 sq. ft. including balcony, this spacious cabin provides a seating area with sofa bed, and full bath with combination tub and shower.

Mini-Suite with Balcony (Category: ME)

Category: ME Approximately 354 sq. ft. including balcony, this spacious cabin provides a seating area with sofa bed, and full bath with combination tub and shower.

Grand Suite with Balcony (Category: S1)

Category: S1 Approximately 1,329 sq. ft. including balcony, the Grand Suite features an expansive cabin and oversized aft-facing balcony. Enjoy exclusive suite-only upgrades and benefits.

Owner's Suite with Balcony (Category: S2)

Category: S2 Approximately 692 sq. ft. including balcony, the Owner's Suite features an expansive cabin and oversized aft-facing balcony. Enjoy exclusive suite-only upgrades and benefits.

Penthouse Suite with Balcony (Category: S3)

Category: S3 Approximately 525 to 572 sq. ft. including balcony, the Penthouse Suite features a spacious cabin and aft-facing balcony. Enjoy exclusive suite-only upgrades and benefits.

Penthouse Suite with Balcony (Category: S4)

Category: S4 Approximately 555 sq. ft. including balcony, the Penthouse Suite features a spacious cabin and separate seating area with a sofa bed. Enjoy exclusive suite-only upgrades and benefits.

Premium Suite with Balcony (Category: S5)

Category: S5 Approximately 705 sq. ft. including balcony, the Premium Suite features a spacious cabin and separate seating area with a sofa bed. Enjoy exclusive suite-only upgrades and benefits.

Vista Suite with Balcony (Category: S6)

Category: S6 Approximately 525 to 548 sq. ft. including balcony, the Vista Suite features a spacious cabin and aft-facing balcony. Enjoy exclusive suite-only upgrades and benefits.

Two-Bedroom Family Suite with Balcony (Category: S8)

Category: S8 Approximately 613 sq. ft. including balcony, the Two Bedroom Family Suite features 2 bedrooms to accommodate up to 6 passengers. Enjoy exclusive suite-only upgrades and benefits.

• Ship Name: Diamond Princess
• Year Entered Present Fleet: 2004
• Ship Class: Diamond
• Maximum Capacity: 2,670
• Number of Passenger Decks: 14
• Number of Crew: 1,100
• Officers' Nationality: British/Italian
• Ocean-View without Balcony: 220
• Ocean-View with Balcony: 522
• Total Inside Staterooms: 377
• Tonnage (GRT): 115,875
• Capacity Based on Double Occupancy: 2,670
• Country of Registry: Bermuda
• Total Staterooms: 1,337
• Suites with Balcony: 216
• Crew/Hotel Staff Nationality: International

Available Dates & Prices

Departure date, departure date - 07/20/2025, terms & conditions.

*Price shown is per person based on double occupancy and is valid for select stateroom categories only. Click on the Terms & Conditions link below for details.

†One Digital Costco Shop Card per room/stateroom, per stay. The exact amount of the Digital Costco Shop Card will be calculated during the booking process. The Digital Costco Shop Card promotion is nontransferable and may not be combined with any other promotion. A Digital Costco Shop Card will arrive by email approximately 10 days after the start of your cruise. Click on the Terms & Conditions link below for additional information.

© Princess Cruise Lines, Ltd. Ships of Bermudan and British registry.

Digital Costco Shop Card

This booking includes a Digital Costco Shop Card which will arrive by email one to two weeks after you return from your vacation. The Digital Costco Shop Card is a convenient payment option in our warehouses and on Costco.com.

Ship Rating

An outstanding luxury cruise experience with an exceptional level of attention to detail. Expect superb service from all levels of officers and staff.

A very good quality all-around cruise experience aboard a ship that offers a range of facilities and services.

A decent, unpretentious cruise experience, with a moderate amount of space and quality in furnishing and fittings.

A modest quality cruise experience with less attention to detail and service.

Expect a very basic cruise experience with minimal attention to service, hospitality and finesse.

Offers some, but not all, of the amenities and services associated with the next highest star rating.

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• Japan & South Korea with Diamond Princess

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Japan & South Korea with Diamond Princess   10 days from/to Yokohama, departure 10/07/2024 (M419)

• Arrival & Departure
• Similar cruises
• Ship information
• Date: Wed  10/07/24
• Port: Yokohama / Japan
• Depart: 16:00
• Date: Thu  11/07/24
• Port: At Sea
• Date: Fri  12/07/24
• Port: Kushiro (Hokkaido) / Japan
• Arrive: 08:00
• Depart: 17:00
• Date: Sat  13/07/24
• Port: Hakodate / Japan
• Arrive: 07:00
• Date: Sun  14/07/24
• Port: Otaru (Sapporo) / Japan
• Date: Mon  15/07/24
• Date: Tue  16/07/24
• Date: Wed  17/07/24
• Port: Seogwipo / South Korea
• Date: Thu  18/07/24
• Date: Fri  19/07/24
• Port: Shimizu / Japan
• Arrive: 11:00
• Depart: 21:00
• Date: Sat  20/07/24
• Arrive: 06:30

Itinerary-Ship encounters

Traveled Distance: 5,474.24 km/2,955.85 nm

Itinerary may be subject to change at any time.

Additional Remarks

Required documents by Princess Cruises: A passport is mandatory on all voyages, regardless of the destination. The passport must be valid for at least 6 months after the end of the trip.

Recommendation: Changes of the hygiene, test, vaccination or entry requirements may occur shortly prior departure. We recommend to check the current regulations for travelers and returnees in time prior departure.

• Price pp. €
• Cat.O5: deck 10-11
• Cat.OZ: deck 8, obstructed view
• Cat.OY: deck 8 & 10, obstructed view
• Cat.OV: deck 8, obstructed view
• Cat.OF: Deck 5/8
• Cat.OC: Deck 5
• Cat.OW: deck 8, obstructed view
• Cat.IF: Deck 5/8, 14-15
• Cat.IE: Deck 8-12
• Cat.ID: Deck 9-11
• Cat.IC: Deck 5/8, 14-15
• Cat.IB: Deck 9-12
• Cat.IA: deck 10-11
• Cat.BF: Deck 12/14
• Cat.BE: Deck 10-12
• Cat.BD: deck 10-11
• Cat.BA: Deck 11
• Cat.B4: Deck 8-12
• Cat.BC: Deck 12/14
• Cat.BB: deck 10-11
• Cat.MD: Deck 9
• Cat.MB: Deck 9
• Cat.M1: deck 9, midship, sofa bed
• Cat.ME: Deck 8-9
• Cat.S8: Deck 9, family suite
• Cat.S6: Deck 8-10
• Cat.S5: Deck 11-12
• Cat.S4: deck 10
• Cat.S1: Deck 11, Grand Suite
• Cat.S2: Deck 11
• Cat.S3: deck 10-11

Included in Cruise Price

Included in the cruise price:

• All meals on board
• Baggage transport on embarkation and disembarkation
• Breakfast delivery to the stateroom (ordered by placing the card outside stateroom doors)
• Entertainment program on board
• Some beverages (water, ice tea, lemonade and coffee)
• Taxes and port charges
• Use of most onboard facilities

Not included benefits

Transportation.

The Seascanner Rail&Fly ticket offer can only be used in connection with an international flight from/to a German airport (for flights from/to Amsterdam, Zurich, Brussels, Vienna, Salzburg and Basel, a request is possible for an additional charge). The Seascanner Rail&Fly ticket offer is valid on DB (Deutsche Bahn) routes from all German railroad stations on all scheduled regular trains (including ICE, IC and EC). Unfortunately, a BahnCard discount cannot be granted. Children (up to and including the age of 14) travel free of charge when accompanied by their parents/grandparents. You will receive a voucher code per person and route after the booking of the Seascanner Rail&Fly ticket. The voucher codes can be reedemed on kreuzfahrtberater.bahnanreise.de by selecting the desired connection from those displayed. You will then receive the digital ticket as a PDF download and/or by e-mail. Nevertheless, you are flexible in your use of the trains (provided you keep the selected route, class and day). The journey must be completed by 10 AM on the following day. Rebooking/cancellation is possible on request. For more information, please visit http://www.kreuzfahrtberater.de/deutsche-bahn .

Book flights & transfers with your booking : Arrival and departure via flight including transfers from the cruise line. The basic price can be requested upon 11 months prior to departure and is subject to availability. Additionally, the booking of pre- or post-programs can be requested at the cruise line. Please inform us if you are interested.

We will be happy to check the availability and prices of an airport transfer with Princess Cruises for you.

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Land of the Rising Sun: a taste of Japan on board Diamond Princess

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Jo Kessel steps on board Princess Cruises' Diamond Princess and discovers it's the perfect way to experience Japan's intricate culture, standout destinations and world-class cuisine.

It’s pretty rare for a cruise to take you somewhere that’s not on the tourist map – but that’s what happens when I’m sailing around Japan with Princess Cruises. 

My ship stops at a port called Toba. It’s not in my guidebook and even many Japanese don’t know it. But I’d heard of a tiny, mystical island not far from here and I ask a lady at the information desk how to get there. She’s surprised I want to go.

“There’s nothing there,” she says. “But then again, I suppose nothing can also be special.”    

In the end, a local, 15-minute ferry delivers me to a parcel of land floating in the Pacific called Toshijima. A wander around leads to a small temple, a quaint harbour and several wide, blonde beaches, all empty. There are very few places left in the world that haven’t been found by tourists, but this is one of them: a blissfully offbeat slice of Japanese paradise.  

Cultural cruising

I’m on a nine-night voyage circumventing Japan, the Land of the Rising Sun – a long, thin island nation that lends itself well to cruising. The trip comprises four major islands: Honshu (home to Tokyo), Hokkaido, Shikoku and Kyushu. Surrounding these are thousands of smaller isles, of which Toshijijma is just one.  

My ship is the 2,670-passenger Diamond Princess, Princess Cruises’ only liner to sail exclusively in the Japan region. It’s your regular, all-encompassing cruise ship with multiple pools, bars and restaurants, but it also offers an immersive cultural experience, with lots of subtle Japanese influences.

There are chopsticks alongside cutlery. Tea is more likely to be green than earl grey. And there are plenty of Japanese dishes on the menu, from ramen noodles to sushi and teriyaki. There is, however, no shortage of burgers, steaks and chips too, and Princess has hired slumber experts to design luxurious, bespoke beds for the cabins.

The ship’s most standout Japanese offering is its ‘Izumi bath’ – a steamy experience designed to replicate the ancient Japanese ritual of bathing naked in hot springs called ‘onsen’. And gulp, yes, swimsuits must come off (it’s single sex).  

Lovely though bathing in Izumi is, it’s no match for my swim on one of Toshijima’s beaches. The deep stretch of golden sand is set in a cove that hems in a crystal clear, calm sea. There’s no one else there and it’s one of my most memorable swims ever.  

Lesser-visited spots

Think of Japan and you imagine thrumming, high-tech cities full of flashing neon and glinting skyscrapers. I’d seen this side during a pre-cruise stay in Tokyo, where I’d spent two days exploring temples, markets and parks, as well the world’s busiest zebra crossing – the one outside Shibuya train station, immortalised by Scarlett Johansson in Lost in Translation.   

But much of the country is made up of quiet, rural, mountainous regions and the beauty of cruising is that it can take you to these hidden destinations most travellers never reach. Many of these spots are steamy and that’s because Japan sits within the Pacific Ring of Fire and is volcanically very active. It’s one of the world’s leading hot spring nations with tens of thousands of geothermal sources. 

READ MORE: The world's most beautiful ports visited by cruise ships

There are public foot onsen called ‘ashiyu’ everywhere – shallow hot pools made for planting feet. I try my first when Diamond Princess stops in the western port of Sakaiminato the next day. It’s at the finishing point of a brand new 10-mile (16km) cycle path, which starts near the ship. After pedalling its full length, through pine forest and alongside a white-sand coastline, it’s a joy to remove socks and dip in toes.  

On dry land

Back on board Diamond Princess there are plenty more opportunities to embrace Japanese culture. You can learn the art of Japanese paper-folding or attend a beginner’s language class. Or you can sample sake and seafood at the ship’s specialty restaurant Kai Sushi – the scallop sashimi is sensational.

Japan is an adventurous destination and that’s where cruising is brilliant. You can either join one of the ship’s guided shore excursions (at extra cost) or explore independently and, at the moment, exploring alone is definitely cheaper.

The yen is currently weak against the pound and everything in Japan is of great value. A fiver can buy you a subway ticket, entrance to a temple and a hearty bowl of noodles – and public transport is easy to navigate with a little help from Google maps. It’s also a safe country where trains are on time and you’re never more than a couple of minutes away from an immaculate, free public toilet.

READ MORE: Amazing river cruise facts that'll make you want to book a trip

My preference is to go it alone – but this does require doing detailed pre-cruise research so that you know exactly what you’d like to do in each port. There was no shore excursion, for example, that would have taken me to the island of Toshijima or cycling in Sakaiminato. 

There is one ship excursion I make time for, however, and that’s in Busan, South Korea – a common port on many Japanese cruise itineraries. It’s to Haedong Yonggungsa Buddhist Temple, a sprawling, colourful complex carved into rocky cliffs overlooking the sea. 

“If you pray hard here one of your wishes will be granted,” says our guide. I take my prayers to a giant, golden Buddha statue and he beams broadly in response.

Standout experiences 

The biggest thrill, however, is saved till last. Our cruise happens to coincide with Gion Festival, one of Japan’s biggest annual celebrations. It’s held every July in Kyoto, which is only a fifteen-minute bullet-train ride from where the ship docks in Osaka. It draws in the masses, who gather to watch a grand procession of floats pass through the city. Some of the floats are the size of double decker buses, with carnival-goers perched precariously on their roofs.

Yet despite their size and weight, they’re pulled along manually by a team of men wearing traditional Japanese costume. The expression on their faces is of pure concentration as they tug and heave, especially when they turn a corner. It’s a tricky manoeuvre which, once successfully negotiated, elicits cheers of appreciation from the crowd.   

Before the cruise draws to a close there’s something I’m keen to try…if I dare. And that’s to soak in a Japanese onsen the traditional way: naked in a mixed bath. The opportunity comes from the port of Akita in the north, not far from the country’s most historic springs, Nyuto Onsen. They were discovered and used by Samurai warriors some four hundred years ago.  

The mixed bath is surrounded by beech forest and overlooks a thundering waterfall. Six people are in it already, however. And they’re all men. I clutch the towel wrapped round my body tighter, no longer so sure. Shall I, shan’t I? Suddenly I throw caution to the wind, ditch the towel, run and dunk. It’s heavenly and liberating; like being wrapped in heated, liquid gold.  

This Diamond Princess cruise is exciting and different, offering a taste of Japanese culture, cuisine and countryside. There are so many experiences to embrace, be it trying new foods, learning cultutal practices such as the art of paper-folding, or stripping off in an onsen. And if you're lucky, you might just manage to find your very own slice of little-known Japanese paradise.    

Getting there

A nine-night cruise on Diamond Princess full board costs from £1,219pp ($1,552). Japan Airlines has return flights from £1,127pp ($1,435). Doubles at Park Hotel Tokyo cost from £135pp ($172). For more info visit  princess.com and  parkhoteltokyo.com . 

READ MORE: The coolest features on board cruise ships

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Busan, South Korea

South Korea's second-largest city is known for its colossal fish market. The top shore excursions include visits to the Busan Tower, Taeshin Park and the crowded beaches at Haeundae. Tourists will also want to experience the extraordinary views from the mountaintop Kumjongsansong Fortress or listen to the chanting of the monks at the Tongdosa Temple.

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Live from the Diamond, July 10-27, 17-day B2B around Japan and Korea

By Ken the cruiser , June 28, 2023 in Princess Cruises

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Ken the cruiser

" And another from Ken the cruiser! Thank you for generously sharing your time at sea with everyone at Cruise Critic! "

Ken the cruiser was awarded the badge '"Live from...."' and 5 points.

Hi all! It's time to start getting excited about our upcoming cruise around Japan with a couple of stops in South Korea!  We booked this family B2B cruise last September and it should be awesome! What's also cool about this B2B is that the only port we will be visiting twice is Osaka, besides of course arriving and leaving from Tokyo (Yokohama). We will be in the same Reserve Class Mini-suite on both legs, which is always a plus on a B2B.

Here are the two itineraries.

For those of you unfamiliar with the Diamond Princess, here's some information about this Grand Class ship.

My plan for this Live From thread is to share some of our experiences on this 17-day B2B cruise, with one exception. As with my other Live From threads, I have no plans to post pictures of food or drinks. Sorry. But if you would enjoy seeing photos taken on the ship as well as of the wildlife and scenery around Japan and Korea, please come along and I'll try my best. Of course, if you have any questions about the cruise or the ship, please feel free to ask and will try my best to find the answer.

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I enjoyed reading your other reviews.  I will be following along.  I have not been to that part of the world.

Following. Looking forward to another fantastic voyage with you and your DW 🙂

Thanks for taking us along.  Looking forward to "seeing" the ports I didn't get to in March.  

Looking forward to this - we have a Japan cruise with Celebrity booked for 2024. 😊

So far our pre-cruise preparation has been far less stressful than our cruises over the past few years, especially when it comes to testing and/or proving our vaccination status. As far as Japan goes, they eliminated their pandemic-related requirements on April 29, 2023.

For Travelers | COVID-19: New Normal Travel in Japan | Travel Japan（Japan National Tourism Organization）

  We are also arriving a day early and have booked a pre-cruise hotel through Princess, which includes transfers from the airport to the hotel and from the hotel to the ship the next day. Did I mention we were low stress cruisers.  😊

But we did discover there is an (optional) online Visit Japan Web registration process that would hopefully get us into the Japan Customs "fast pass" line once we arrive in Tokyo by simply showing a resulting QR code generated after completing its online registration process. The trickiest part was figuring out the full address and phone number of the hotel Princess booked us in before boarding the Diamond the next day, and how many days (6) we were going to be in Japan before cruising over to South Korea.

Login | Visit Japan Web (digital.go.jp)

That's it so far.  🤞

sherrihall128

Happy to follow along!

Looking forward to your reports!

If you're curious, here are the Princess excursions we will be going on during the first leg of the cruise. 

Day 3 - Akita - Oga Peninsula: Mt. Kanpuzan Observatory & Namahage Museum

Experience a world of legendary beauty with a drive to the Oga Peninsula. Rugged, breathtaking, and mysterious the area boasts steep cliffs, a few volcanic crater lakes and ancient legends. Soak up its splendor with a stop at the Mt. Kanpuzan Observatory. Climb the stone steps that lead to the rotating observatory and admire views from a bird's eye perspective. Enjoy the changing scenery as you rotate 360 degrees, and take advantage of the many varied photo opportunities courtesy of the landscape, which is devoid of trees.

Day 4 - Kanazawa - Kenrokuen Gardens, Samurai & Geisha Districts

Board your motorcoach and drive to Kenroku-en, one of the celebrated 'Great Gardens of Japan'. This 25-acre landscape garden was originally developed by the daimyo of Kanazawa Castle. Most of the garden was built during the late Edo Period. Kenroku-en boasts Japan's first fountain, a teahouse dating to 1774, and a pagoda donated to the Maeda clan by the great warlord Toyotomi. Continue to the Nagamachi District, once home to many of Kanazawa's samurai. Cross the Asano River to the Higashi Chayamachi, one of the city's four pleasure districts established in 1820 during the late Edo period. The district is home to traditional 'tea houses' where rich merchants and artisans held drinking parties and geisha performed. Explore the narrow streets and the two-story pleasure palaces.

Day 6 - Busan, Korea - Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

Accompanied by your local guide this enjoyable half day tour starts with a breath-taking journey through glorious countryside and along coastal roads, to the beautiful Haedong Yonggungsa Temple. One of the most striking landmarks in Busan thanks to its unusual location by the sea, you will climb around 108 steps to the entrance, past statues of Buddha and along a dramatic rocky backdrop. Head to Dongbaekseom Island, and the stunning APEC House, which was built for the 2005 APEC Economic Leader's Meeting. Surrounded by beautiful pine trees you will view the charming Mermaid Statue. Drive to the Gukje International Market and browse for souvenirs and crafts before heading back to port. On the way to the market you will see the impressive 24,000-foot Gwangan Grand Bridge, which was completed in 2003, and is the longest suspension bridge in Korea.

Day 8 - Osaka - Highlights of Osaka

A wonderful half-day adventure exploring two of Osaka's iconic treasures awaits on this fascinated guided tour. Begin with a scenic drive to Osaka Castle. Built in 1583, the castle was erected on two raised platforms atop a tall stone foundation to protect the ruler from sword-wielding samurai. The castle grounds cover 400 acres dotted with historic structures. Walk up to the top of the castle's observation deck and enjoy 360-degree vistas of the city. Your tour will then wend its way to the garden, notable for its cherry trees, and then to the museum, which features valuable artifacts from 1570 to 1600. Your next destination is the Sumiyoshi Shrine, one of the oldest shrines in Japan, founded in the 3rd century. The shrine was constructed in a unique architecture style, called Sumiyoshi-zukuri, purely Japanese without influence from the Asian mainland. Return to port with a camera filled with memories.

Day 9 - Toba - Best of Ise and Shima

Soak up the serenity of nature-made and man-made delights that dot Shima-hanto Peninsula. From Toba, you'll travel inland to the town of Uji-tachi, home of the Ise-jingu Shrine Complex. Acclaimed as one of the most famous sacred places in Japan, the Inner Shrine known as Naiku is dedicated to the Sun Goddess, Amaterasu, one of the most revered Shinto deities. Dating back to the 7th century, the shrine buildings are made of solid cypress wood and use no nails but instead joined wood. Then, head south to Yokoyama and its famed Observatory. Sitting over 660 feet on Mt. Yokoyama, the deck boasts magnificent views of Ago Bay. Next, embark on a leisurely cruise along the rugged coastline around Kashikojima, the largest island in Ago Bay followed by lunch and return to Toba.

Due to website issues when trying to book excursions using our Princess OBC, we're going to wait to see what's available on the second leg once we're on the ship.

Following along and looking forward to seeing some of your famous pigeon photos, as well as other wildlife of course. Wishing you a safe and smooth journey!

We were on the same ship in 2019 for a similar cruise and a TP home. We have visited all the ports you are visiting either on that cruise or a land tour we did years ago. We will do a TP from LA to Yokohama in fall 2024. I am following along to see what other options are available. BTW we used the Goodwill guides in several port, and did the same excursions in Kanazawa, Toba and Busan.

Hi Ken…your excursions all sound wonderful! We visited the Buddhist Temple by the Sea in Busan and loved it all…there are lots of stairs since it’s quite hilly and rocky but just take your time! Lovely views out over the ocean!  As I was saying if you don’t want to travel into Osaka or Kyoto from Kobe and just want to spend the day in this port….there is a free HOHO Bus around the city Center….again this is a hilly port! Take the free shuttle from a stop near the shopping mall…shuttle from the ship stops right near the mall! Walk down the road and then turn first right and the bus stop is right there! Free HOHO runs every half hour and takes you around the city but the best stop is at the Herb Garden! You take the RopeWay…chairlift….to the top of the hill and then a leisurely walk back down through beautiful gardens all lovingly attended by Japanese ladies who do all this  work for free…simply because they love gardening! There are cafes and hot houses on the way down that you can pop into and look at arts and crafts of the area! This is what it was like when we were there in 2018…I hope it’s still the same! I shall post the details of this little tour later on! There is also a beautiful enclosed Japanese Garden that you can visit not far from the entrance to the Gardens and again I shall let you know where! Hope all this helps Ken! Cheers Annette

Sorry…it’s not a free city loop bus in Kobe….it costs 700 Yen for the day! 

3 minutes ago, jolli said: Hi Ken…your excursions all sound wonderful! We visited the Buddhist Temple by the Sea in Busan and loved it all…there are lots of stairs since it’s quite hilly and rocky but just take your time! Lovely views out over the ocean!  As I was saying if you don’t want to travel into Osaka or Kyoto from Kobe and just want to spend the day in this port….there is a free HOHO Bus around the city Center….again this is a hilly port! Take the free shuttle from a stop near the shopping mall…shuttle from the ship stops right near the mall! Walk down the road and then turn first right and the bus stop is right there! Free HOHO runs every half hour and takes you around the city but the best stop is at the Herb Garden! You take the RopeWay…chairlift….to the top of the hill and then a leisurely walk back down through beautiful gardens all lovingly attended by Japanese ladies who do all this  work for free…simply because they love gardening! There are cafes and hot houses on the way down that you can pop into and look at arts and crafts of the area! This is what it was like when we were there in 2018…I hope it’s still the same! I shall post the details of this little tour later on! There is also a beautiful enclosed Japanese Garden that you can visit not far from the entrance to the Gardens and again I shall let you know where! Hope all this helps Ken! Cheers Annette

Thanks Annette! We’ll definitely refer to your thoughts on our second leg before we book any excursions in the area! 

Just now, jolli said: Sorry…it’s not a free city loop bus in Kobe….it costs 700 Yen for the day! 

That’s US$5 for the day! Very cheap and ideal for looking around the city…you can stop off at different parts of city and then get back on! Don’t feel afraid …..Not many older Japanese speak English but if you have a map they are only to happy to help you and point you in the right direction! Always remember to say thank you in Japanese! 

Justpackingmybags

Following! This is on my bucket list, so I’m getting tempted just from the itinerary!

8 hours ago, Ken the cruiser said: So far our pre-cruise preparation has been far less stressful than our cruises over the past few years, especially when it comes to testing and/or proving our vaccination status. As far as Japan goes, they eliminated their pandemic-related requirements on April 29, 2023.   For Travelers | COVID-19: New Normal Travel in Japan | Travel Japan（Japan National Tourism Organization）     We are also arriving a day early and have booked a pre-cruise hotel through Princess, which includes transfers from the airport to the hotel and from the hotel to the ship the next day. Did I mention we were low stress cruisers.  😊   But we did discover there is an (optional) online Visit Japan Web registration process that would hopefully get us into the Japan Customs "fast pass" line once we arrive in Tokyo by simply showing a resulting QR code generated after completing its online registration process. The trickiest part was figuring out the full address and phone number of the hotel Princess booked us in before boarding the Diamond the next day, and how many days (6) we were going to be in Japan before cruising over to South Korea.   Login | Visit Japan Web (digital.go.jp)   That's it so far.  🤞

I wish this were the case.  I did all the web documents and received my QR codes.  Still had to stand in immigration line for almost 90 minutes upon arrival into Narita. They require you to have your fingerprints taken.  There is a separate line for wheel chairs and flight crew.  Japanese nationals also were separated out.    

Be prepared for many more immigration lines, especially after visiting Korea.  Princess will provide instructions.  Lines to leave.  Lines to return.    

Tip….take a washcloth with you off the ship.  No paper towels. And it’s going to be hot and maybe humid.  No trash cans either. 

Travlin grrl

Following too. I'm thinking of doing a cruise tour with this itinerary. Can't wait to hear about it and see your photos of the ship. Thank you for reviewing and sharing.  

Looking forward to your experience! 

We were on Diamond in 2019 for a round trip cruise from Kobe. My brother in law was living there at the time and we combined a land tour to Kyoto for a few days which was a highlight of our trip. 

On one of our ports of call we were wakened around 5.30 am by a group of schoolchildren on the quayside singing loudly! Apparently this was the first time Princess had called at this port and the locals went out of their way all day to make it special. 

We enjoyed that the ship put on lots of cultural events and that so many passengers from around the world had a japanese heritage. It made for a very different cruising experience which we really enjoyed.

We will also be following as Japan is on our future cruise list..thank you for thinking of all of us during YOUR vacation.

10 hours ago, cr8tiv1 said: I wish this were the case.  I did all the web documents and received my QR codes.  Still had to stand in immigration line for almost 90 minutes upon arrival into Narita. They require you to have your fingerprints taken.  There is a separate line for wheel chairs and flight crew.  Japanese nationals also were separated out.     Be prepared for many more immigration lines, especially after visiting Korea.  Princess will provide instructions.  Lines to leave.  Lines to return.     Tip….take a washcloth with you off the ship.  No paper towels. And it’s going to be hot and maybe humid.  No trash cans either. 

Thanks for the heads up! I wonder what the overall wait time would have been if you had not applied in advance for the Visit Japan Web QR code. At least hopefully we'll have the option to "pick a line" once we land at the Haneda Airport in Tokyo. BTW we wouldn't have even known about this option if it wasn't for reading about it on CC as Princess makes no mention of it anywhere.

23 hours ago, jolli said: Not many older Japanese speak English but if you have a map they are only to happy to help you and point you in the right direction! Always remember to say thank you in Japanese! 

On that thought, here are 8 short lessons, like 3 minutes each that give the traveller some basic phrases for Japan. We are cruising Japan in October so following this thread with interest.

https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/ondemand/program/video/easytravel_j/

A nice gesture is something called "omiyage".  

https://www.hawaiianairlines.com/hawaii-stories/culture/omiyage

Oops...temiyage is the proper terminology.  

Looks like there has been an itinerary change and we won't be stopping at Kanazawa on July 13 now. Instead, they have extended the time in Akita, the previous port, a few hours and turned Day 4 into a sea day.

ITINERARY CHANGE Please be advised the port authority has recently advised the berth for Diamond Princess in Kanazawa, Japan is not available on July 13, 2023 as scheduled. As a result, Diamond Princess will no longer call to Kanazawa on Thursday, July 13 but instead will spend the day at sea. To accommodate this change, we have extended our call to Akita, Japan by three hours and we will now depart Akita at 7:00 PM on Wednesday, July 12 rather than 4:00 PM as previously scheduled. Guests with Princess shore excursions booked for Kanazawa will be refunded to the original form of payment. Updated shore excursion information for Akita will be available on board. The revised itinerary displays in full at the end of this notification. Thank you for your attention to this notification.

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28 countries for $25K? Princess' World Cruise will offer 'more all-inclusive experience'

On Princess Cruises’ 2026 world cruise, the line will one-up itself.

The 114-day sailing will visit 52 ports, the most destinations for any of the line’s world cruises.

Terry Thornton, the line’s chief commercial officer said the voyage “addresses a growing interest in longer voyages that make stops at more exotic destinations, and the urge to do it as part of a more all-inclusive experience,” according to a news release .

“Our 2026 World Cruise offers our most destination-rich itinerary ever so guests can immerse themselves in a global experience rich with landmarks, ancient ruins, unique landscapes, wildlife, gastronomy, cultures and heritage,” he added.

What is a world cruise? It's not a 'shoot-from-the-hip decision'

When is Princess’ 2026 world cruise?

The cruise will sail round-trip from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on Jan. 5, 2026, on the line’s 2,000-guest Coral Princess ship.

 Guests can also opt to sail round-trip from Los Angeles on Jan. 21 instead.

Where will the cruise go?

Guests will sail to 28 countries on six continents, and the stops will give passengers access to 45 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The itinerary also features late departures from more than a dozen ports, including Honolulu, Hawaii, Singapore, and Sydney, Australia. Guests will also stay overnight in Hong Kong.

The cruise will include the line's first-ever stop in Boracay, an island in the Philippines, and Coral Princess will make new world cruise calls to Puerto Chiapas, Mexico and Ponta Delgada in Portugal’s Azores Islands . Guests can enjoy destination-specific programming on board, such as themed deck and sail-away parties, lectures on Mediterranean history and art, World War II and more.

How much does the cruise cost?

The round-trip Fort Lauderdale departure currently starts at $25,214 per person based on double occupancy, while the Los Angeles option starts at $24,004, according to the line’s website .

Guests who book by Oct. 31, 2024, will get a complimentary Princess Premier package that includes Wi-Fi, premium alcoholic drinks, specialty coffee and more; $500 in onboard credit each for two passengers; and transfers from local airports, among other perks.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

Princess is launching an all-inclusive, 4-month, around-the-world cruise for $20,000— see what it'll be like

• Princess Cruises announced a 114-day  world cruise to 52 destinations in 2026, starting at $20,000 per person. 
• Guests who book early would get a free, all-inclusive package, a first for Princess' global itineraries.
• Extended and all-inclusive cruises have emerged as big trends in the vacation industry.

Princess Cruise's new around-the-world voyage will hit two vacation trends in one itinerary.

In January 2026, the company says its Coral Princess will embark on a 114-day cruise to 52 ports in 28 countries and six continents — more destinations than any of its previous global sailings .

It's the Carnival Corp brand's latest appeal to the extended cruising trend . But it's not the only fad this four-month vacation is targeting.

The sailing, which starts at $20,000 per person, also marks the first time Princess is offering a complimentary all-inclusive package as a way to entice early bookings.

Ultra-long and all-inclusive cruises have emerged as big trends in the industry.

Regent Seven Seas, Azamara, and Oceania's 2024 around-the-world cruises all sold out before departing in January. The former was fully booked within three hours, while every cabin on the latter was called for in 30 minutes.

Besides being high-end, these three companies share one commonality: some level of all-inclusiveness , as is common with premium cruise lines.

Mass-market cruise companies rarely go the all-inclusive route.

Princess, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian are generally beloved for their affordability.

But if you want to experience all their ships have to offer, be prepared to face a list of up-charged amenities like pay-to-play rides and specialty restaurants . After all, there's a reason their base fares are much cheaper than their increasingly popular ultra-luxury, all-inclusive counterparts.

But Princess has been increasingly vying for a slice of the luxury cruiser pie.

The cruise line says guests who book its 2026 world cruise early (that is, by the end of October) will receive its most inclusive Princess Premier package for free. The perk — launched two years ago — covers amenities that typically have a fee, like WiFi, premium drinks, some specialty restaurants, and workout classes.

Travelers who reserve one of the ship's high-end cabins by the same deadline would also receive complimentary airport transfers and airfare, services normally exclusively offered by luxury cruise lines .

The itinerary would have two roundtrip embarkation options: Fort. Lauderdale, Florida, on January 5, 2026, or Los Angeles 16 days later.

From there, the 2,000-guest Coral Princess would sail more than 35,000 nautical miles to ports in North America, the Pacific Islands, New Zealand and Australia, Asia, the Mediterranean, Europe, and Central and South America.

It wouldn't be Princess' longest voyage — that title goes to its 116-day world cruise in 2025 — but it would be one of its most destination-heavy.

While two days longer, next year's around-the-world cruise would hit six fewer ports and four fewer countries than its 2026 counterpart.

According to the itinerary, about half of the 2026 voyage consists of sea days.

That's a lot of time on the water with no land in sight. Luckily, travelers can keep themselves entertained by attending lectures and programs related to the destinations, leisuring around the adult-only lounge, or taking a dip in Coral Princess' four pools.

The 21-year-old ship also has 10 places to grab a bite, although the Italian and steakhouse restaurants are considered specialty. Premier is the cruise line's most inclusive package, but it only includes 16 free dinners at these upcharge restaurants, paced once a week.

Princess is still a mass-market cruise line, after all.

The company has been increasingly dangling its inclusive package as a big perk.

The company says its two-month-old Sun Princess will debut in the US in October with its first-ever Sanctuary Collection . Travelers who splurge on these expensive and luxurious accommodations would be rewarded with two major benefits: a private lounge and Princess Premier.

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Princess Cruises Reveals Details of Its 2026 World Cruise Itinerary

Princess Cruises has unveiled the particulars its 2026 World Cruise, which will sail aboard the Coral Princess, and promises an unprecedented journey to 52 ports across 28 countries, spanning six continents—the most extensive itinerary ever offered by the renowned “Love Boat” cruise line. With bookings now open, eager globetrotters can seize early booking advantages and secure their spot on this 114-day expedition covering over 35,000 nautical miles.

Setting sail on January 5, 2026, from Fort Lauderdale, Florida and January 21, 2026, from Los Angeles, California, the 2026 World Cruise presents two roundtrip options, catering to diverse travel preferences and departure points.  

"This 2026 World Cruise addresses a growing interest in longer voyages that make stops at more exotic destinations, and the urge to do it as part of a more all-inclusive experience," said Terry Thornton, chief commercial officer for Princess Cruises. "Our 2026 World Cruise offers our most destination-rich itinerary ever so guests can immerse themselves in a global experience rich with landmarks, ancient ruins, unique landscapes, wildlife, gastronomy, cultures and heritage."

What's New and Noteworthy?

• Enriching the 2026 Princess World Cruise are several exciting additions:
• A maiden call to Boracay, a picturesque island in the central Philippines renowned for its pristine beaches and upscale resorts, marking a debut for Princess Cruises.
• Coral Princess will also make inaugural World Cruise visits to Puerto Chiapas, Mexico and Ponta Delgada, Azores Islands.
• Visiting a total of 52 destinations, the voyages will reach the highest number of destinations in Princess's World Cruise history, boasting access to 45 UNESCO World Heritage Sites worldwide.
• Enhanced port experiences with "More Ashore Late-Night" stays in 13 ports like Singapore , Sydney and Honolulu, along with an overnight stay in Hong Kong .

Coral Princess Facilities and Entertainment

Complementing the immersive itinerary is an array of onboard programming, activities and entertainment curated to deepen guests' connection with the destinations. These include enrichment speakers, destination experts, ambassadors, performers and theatrical productions as part of the onboard experience. 

• Cultural Enrichment: Language lessons, dance classes, destination-inspired arts, instrument instruction, and gastronomic experiences featuring local cuisine, cocktails, and wines.
• Destination-Specific Events: Folkloric performances, themed deck parties, trivia contests, and the Princess Book Club, featuring novels set in visited countries.
• Guest Lecturers: Experts in Mediterranean art and history, maritime affairs, World War II history, bridge lecturers and destination ambassadors providing insights into Hawaiian and Māori cultures.

Booking Details

• Fares for the 2026 World Cruise start at $19,999 per guest. Guests reserving the entire World Cruise by October 31, 2024, will enjoy exclusive benefits, including:
• Complimentary Princess Premier Package, which includes such enviable amenities as Wi-Fi, premium alcoholic beverages, specialty coffees, specialty dining, fitness classes, OceanNow delivery anywhere, reserved theater seating and more.
• Captain's Circle discount of $1,000 for two guests.
• $500 onboard credit per guest for two guests.
• Free EZAir airfare: economy class for balcony accommodation and above, and first class for mini-suites and suites.
• Complimentary transfers from select local airports (LAX, FLL and MIA).
• Free specialty dining experiences (one each week).

Additionally, those guests only interested in seeing a certain part of the globe with a shorter itinerary can opt to join the voyage during select cruise segments, and those who book by October 31, 2024, will receive a $200 onboard credit. More information, including the full and segmented 2026 World Cruise itineraries, can be found at  princess.com/worldcruise .

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