Why Japan, Why Now?
Once considered niche, Japan has emerged as a global cruise favourite. A blend of cultural curiosity, upgraded port infrastructure, and post-pandemic demand for safe, meaningful travel has created the perfect wave. Cruise lines like Silversea, Regent Seven Seas, Seabourn, Princess, Ponant, and Crystal now dedicate entire seasons to Japan itineraries.
Top Ports of Interest
Tokyo (Yokohama): Neon skylines, ancient temples, buzzing Shibuya, and world-class sushi.
Kyoto (via Kobe/Osaka): Geishas, golden temples, tea ceremonies, and UNESCO-listed heritage.
Kagoshima: Home to Sakurajima volcano, hot springs, and samurai history.
Hiroshima & Miyajima: Peace Memorial Park and the iconic floating torii gate.
Shimizu (Mount Fuji): Picture-perfect mountain views and local tea plantations.
Hakodate (Hokkaido): Night views, fresh seafood, and old-world charm.
Kanazawa: Edo-era districts, Kenrokuen Gardens, and gold-leaf artistry.
Every stop is distinct, a patchwork of flavours, traditions, and landscapes.
Best Time to Cruise Japan
Spring (Mar–May): Cherry blossom season, breathtaking but busiest.
Autumn (Oct–Nov): Fiery foliage, crisp air, fewer crowds.
Summer (Jun–Aug): Festival season, Kyoto’s Gion Matsuri, lively ports, Hokkaido escapes.
Winter (Dec–Feb): Quiet reflection, snow-capped scenery, hot springs, seasonal cuisine.
Why Book Early?
Smaller luxury ships = limited cabins.
High-demand seasons (spring & autumn) sell out 12–18 months ahead.
Best cabins & excursions (like sumo, tea ceremonies, or foodie tours) go fast.
Early booking secures value, upgrades, and availability.
The Takeaway
Cruising Japan is more than sightseeing, it’s a cultural immersion. You’ll sip sake in Kyoto, stand before Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial, wake to views of Mount Fuji, and walk through neon-lit Shinjuku, all in one seamless voyage.
With its blend of ancient and futuristic, serene and vibrant, Japan is truly a cruise like no other.
If it’s on your list, the time to plan is now.
Take a look at this option:
Wonders of Japan Cruise 2026
Discover Japan’s cultural treasures on a 14-day journey across five islands, each with its own traditions, arts, and flavours. Begin with a stay at one of Osaka’s finest hotels before boarding Le Jacques-Cartier, an intimate luxury ship.
Highlights include:
Learning bonsai in Takamatsu and exploring Kanazawa’s historic geisha district
A private Kodo taiko drumming performance on Sado-ga-shima
Reflecting at Hiroshima’s Atomic Bomb Dome and Peace Park
Immersive shore excursions covering art, architecture, gardens, and cuisine
A day in South Korea to explore Gyeongju’s ancient dynasties or Busan’s lively coast
Admiring the celebrated Adachi Museum of Art, where gardens meet sculpture
Twelve days at sea, endless stories ashore.
14 Days from £19,920
