In response to the growing demand for voyages in Japan, Princess Cruises has unveiled its 2025 Japan season. This newly announced program aims to provide tourists with the opportunity to explore the diverse offerings of this unique island nation, where ancient traditions seamlessly coexist with ultra modernity.
Princess' 2025 Japan season groups 35 cruises spanning durations from 7 to 22 days, running from March through August. Diamond Princess, constructed in Japan, will set sail from Tokyo (Yokohama) to visit 36 destinations across three countries, solidifying Princess Cruises' position as the leading North American Cruise Line in Japan. The season is currently open for booking.
Key highlights of the 2025 itinerary include:
- Spring Flowers Cruises: These 10-day and newly introduced 11-day cruises in March and April cover all four main islands of Japan, following the predicted blooming season from south to north.
- Southern Islands Itineraries: Featuring 9 days of exploration with two stops in the Okinawan islands and two calls to Taiwan, including a return to Hualien.
- Sea of Japan Voyages: These 9-day and 10-day voyages trace the historic Kitamaebune trading route, showcasing various ports along the way.
- Hokkaido Voyages: The 10-day cruises include visits to Otaru (for Sapporo), Hakodate, and Kushiro.
- Japan Explorer Voyages: Covering iconic destinations such as Shimizu (for Mt. Fuji), Osaka or Kobe (for Kyoto), Hiroshima, and more in a 10-day itinerary.
- Scenic Cruising: Passengers will have the opportunity to experience the picturesque Kanmon Straits, the waterway separating Honshu and Kyushu.
Additionally, for those seeking cultural immersion, the 2025 season will coincide with several traditional Japanese summer festivals, including the Aomori Nebuta Festival, Kochi Yosakoi Dance Festival, Tokushima Awa Dance Festival, and Kumano Fireworks Festival in August. Guests can revel in the unique festivities during their cruise.
To enhance the shore experience, Princess Cruises is offering late-night and overnight stays in certain ports, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the local culture and lifestyle. Four specific late-night More Ashore ports have been designated for this purpose, including Aomori (for Nebuta Festival), Kochi (for Yosakoi Festival), Shimizu (for Mt. Fuji), and Tokushima (for Awa Odori Festival).
For travelers seeking a more comprehensive exploration of Japan, Princess Cruises offers the Japan Cruisetour option. This includes a combination of a cruise and a land tour, allowing guests to delve deeper into the cultural treasures of Kyoto and Tokyo. Highlights of the tour include visits to Kyoto's intricate gardens, Nijo Castle, Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion), Great Buddha of Todaiji Temple, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, bustling Tokyo, and the UNESCO World Heritage site of Mt. Fuji, with breathtaking views from Togendai and Lake Ashi.