Japan Cruises
Japan cruises allow you to experience a rich culture, history, and natural beauty. Japan offers a variety of attractions, from bustling cities like Tokyo and Kyoto to serene countryside landscapes and picturesque coastal towns. Traveling to Japan promises an unforgettable journey filled with discovery and adventure, whether you are interested in ancient temples and traditional tea houses, savoring world-class cuisine, or relaxing in Japanese gardens and hot springs. Several cruise lines offer itineraries highlighting Japan's many attractions, so you can embark on an unforgettable voyage.
Japan is known for being the most technologically advanced country. It also bears one of the world's oldest cultures, making it a popular tourist attraction. Besides Japan's polite and hospitable people, the country has several mountains and miles of arable grasslands.
With such diverse natural landscapes and traditional Japanese temples, Japan can be a perfect destination for an ideal cruise holiday. Scroll down to find the top cruise lines if you plan a trip to Japan.
Popular Departure Ports
Cruises to Japan depart from Hong Kong, Kobe, Kyoto, Tokyo, and Yokohama. With connections to Tokyo, Yokohama, and Kyoto, Hong Kong is a convenient gateway to Japan in East Asia, while Kobe is a gateway to the Kansai region. In addition to the cultural richness of Kyoto, nearby ports often offer excursions before or after cruises. There are many departure points in Japan, including Tokyo and Yokohama, which are located adjacent to Tokyo. The departure ports of these ports offer travelers unique opportunities to explore Japan's diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage.
Cruises to Japan depart from these Departure Ports:
Things To Know About Japan
Japan encompasses a rich tapestry of cultural, historical, and natural wonders. From the modern metropolises to the serene countryside, some notable things to know include:
Authentic Cultural Experiences: Engage in a traditional tea ceremony, where the meticulous preparation and presentation of matcha tea offer a serene glimpse into Japanese culture. Immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance of a ryokan, where tatami mat floors, sliding shoji doors, and the soothing ritual of an onsen bath create a serene retreat.
Natural Wonders: Marvel at the majestic beauty of Mount Fuji, Japan's iconic volcano, which towers over the landscape and offers breathtaking views from its slopes. Explore the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove in Kyoto, where towering bamboo stalks create an ethereal atmosphere and a sense of tranquility.
Japanese Cuisine: Delight your taste buds with the artistry of sushi at Tsukiji Fish Market, where skilled chefs showcase the freshest seafood in this beloved culinary tradition. Experience the comforting warmth of a steaming bowl of ramen in a bustling izakaya, where rich broth, chewy noodles, and flavorful toppings come together in perfect harmony.
Temples: Visit Kyoto's Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, whose shimmering golden facade reflects in the surrounding pond, creating a scene of timeless beauty and serenity. Explore the awe-inspiring Todai-ji Temple in Nara, home to the Great Buddha statue and surrounded by tranquil gardens and towering pagodas.
Landmarks: Ascend Tokyo Tower for panoramic views of the sprawling metropolis below, its illuminated skyline stretching as far as the eye can see. Wander through the historic halls of Osaka Castle, a magnificent fortress surrounded by lush gardens and cherry blossom trees, symbolizing the city's rich heritage.
Innovation: Experience the cutting-edge technology of Akihabara, Tokyo's electric district, where neon lights, towering screens, and futuristic gadgets showcase Japan's technological prowess. Stay at the Henn-na Hotel in Sasebo, where robotic staff members provide an innovative and futuristic approach to hospitality, offering guests a glimpse into Japan's vision of the future.
Cherry Blossoms: Join the annual hanami tradition in Tokyo's Ueno Park, where crowds gather beneath the delicate pink blossoms to celebrate the fleeting beauty of spring. Stroll along Kyoto's Philosopher's Path, a picturesque trail lined with cherry trees, where the soft petals drift in the breeze, creating a scene of timeless beauty and tranquility.
Top cruise lines to visit Japan
Japan is an island country surrounded by miles of crystal blue ocean water. This makes it an ideal destination for cruises. A cruise trip to Japan can help you explore the country while staying closer to nature. Check out the best cruise options you can get to visit Japan.
1. Princess Cruises
Princess Cruise Line provides some of the best deals for cruising in the Japanese archipelago. With this cruise ship, you can get complete leisure onboard. While cruises usually maintain a fixed schedule for breakfasts and meals, Princess Cruises are devoid of those.
You can actually have your meals any time you like, anywhere you want. So, if you feel like exploring the shorelines of Japan while gorging on some pancakes on the deck, feel free!
2. Cunard
Cunard Cruise Line redefines luxury when it comes to the experience of cruising on the Pacific Ocean. It packs in a traditional and regal aesthetic design, allowing you to relax. As a nod to traditions, all Cunard ships host afternoon tea events and gala evenings. On this cruise ship, you can explore delectable, world-famous cuisines and some of the best sushi and sashimi by Michelin-star chefs.
3. Celebrity
As the name goes, Celebrity offers a luxurious experience that can spoil you like never before. Besides exploring the various landscapes of Japan, your days will be filled with absolutely the best food and beverage options. The onboard activities on these cruise ships are a banger among all its patrons. The ships usually cover some of the top tourist attractions of Japan, such as Kyoto, Tokyo, Hiroshima, etc.
4. Azamara Cruises
Azamara's fleet of ships offers some of the best tour itineraries at the best prices. The ships are compact enough to penetrate even the narrowest of waters. While the interiors are luxurious for a perfect holiday, you can experience the intrinsic beauty of Japan with off-shore activities.
5. Oceania Cruises
Oceania cruises are a perfect choice for the love of traveling. It offers the comfort of a home so you can walk out of bed to the most picturesque cities in Japan. Cruises from Oceania also come with complimentary shore excursion options, which allow you to get an affordable deal. Oceania cruises cover some popular destinations like Tokyo, Shanghai, and Kyoto.
Highlights Of Cruises to Japan
Ports of call for cruises to Japan vary depending on the itinerary, but some common ports include:
Keelung (Taipei), Taiwan:
- Explore the bustling night markets of Taipei, known for their vibrant atmosphere and delicious street food.
- Visit the iconic Taipei 101 skyscraper for panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.
Tokyo, Japan:
- Discover the dynamic metropolis of Tokyo, home to iconic landmarks like the historic Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa and the modern Tokyo Skytree in Sumida.
- Immerse yourself in Japanese pop culture in the vibrant districts of Shibuya and Harajuku, known for their trendy fashion, quirky shops, and colorful street art.
Kelang (Kuala Lumpur), Malaysia:
- Take a day trip to Kuala Lumpur, the capital city of Malaysia, to visit landmarks like the Petronas Twin Towers, Batu Caves, and Sultan Abdul Samad Building.
- Explore the diverse neighborhoods of Kuala Lumpur, including Chinatown, Little India, and the bustling Bukit Bintang shopping district.
Yokohama, Japan:
- Experience the cosmopolitan vibe of Yokohama's waterfront area, home to attractions like the futuristic Minato Mirai district, Yokohama Landmark Tower, and Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse.
- Enjoy panoramic views of Tokyo Bay from the iconic Yokohama Cosmo Clock 21 Ferris wheel and stroll through the scenic Yamashita Park.
Naha, Japan (Okinawa):
- Discover the rich history and culture of Okinawa at Shuri Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning architecture and panoramic views of Naha.
- Relax on the picturesque beaches of Okinawa, such as Naminoue Beach and Sunset Beach, and enjoy water activities like snorkeling, diving, and kayaking.
Sitka, Alaska:
- Explore Sitka's rich Native American heritage at sites like the Sitka National Historical Park, home to stunning totem poles and the historic Russian Bishop's House.
- Enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, wildlife watching, and fishing in Sitka's pristine wilderness areas, including Tongass National Forest and Baranof Island.
Seattle, Washington:
- Discover the vibrant culture and iconic landmarks of Seattle, including the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and Chihuly Garden and Glass.
- Explore Seattle's diverse neighborhoods, such as Capitol Hill, Fremont, and Pioneer Square, known for their eclectic shops, galleries, and restaurants.
Busan, South Korea:
- Visit the bustling Jagalchi Fish Market, one of South Korea's largest seafood markets, to sample fresh seafood and experience the lively atmosphere.
- Explore the historic Gamcheon Culture Village, known for its colorful houses, narrow alleyways, and vibrant street art, offering a unique blend of tradition and modernity.
Get Cheap Cruises to Japan
Check out CruiseBooking.com for great deals on cruises to Japan! You can find fabulous deals on voyages leaving from many of the world's most popular ports such as Tokyo, Yokohama, and Kobe, among others. CruiseBooking.com offers a wide variety of options for exploring Japan's vibrant cities, scenic landscapes, and cultural treasures, whether you're looking for a last-minute getaway or a budget-friendly getaway. Book your cheap cruise to Japan today with CruiseBooking.com and start planning your perfect vacation today. Don't let a cheap cruise to Japan pass you by without taking advantage of this exciting opportunity to experience the Land of the Rising Sun.
Takeaway
With all these attractive features, the reasons are enough to explore Japan on a cruise ship. However, do note that ports of call may change depending on the local weather conditions. It is advisable to visit Japan, especially during the spring, to witness the serenity of cherry blossoms in full bloom.
When booking a cruise ticket to Japan, consider booking from cruiseBooking.com to get attractive offers and the best deals at an affordable price.
FAQs for Cruises to Southeast Asia
Popular ports of call in Japan include Tokyo (Yokohama), Osaka, Kobe, Nagasaki, and Naha (Okinawa). These ports offer diverse experiences ranging from cultural landmarks to scenic landscapes.
The best time to take a cruise to Japan depends on your preferences. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are popular for mild weather, cherry blossom viewing, and fall foliage. However, summer (June to August) offers warmer temperatures and festivals, while winter (December to February) may have fewer crowds and opportunities for winter sports.
Must-see attractions in Japan include iconic landmarks like Tokyo's Senso-ji Temple and Kyoto's Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), natural wonders like Mount Fuji and Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and cultural experiences such as tea ceremonies, sumo wrestling matches, and traditional kabuki performances.
Visitors to the Middle East should be respectful of local customs and traditions, including dressing modestly, avoiding public displays of affection, and refraining from consuming alcohol in public places where it is not permitted.
Yes, it's important to respect Japanese customs and etiquette. This includes bowing when greeting others, removing shoes before entering homes or certain establishments, and using chopsticks correctly. Additionally, it's polite to avoid loud conversations in public spaces and to refrain from tipping in restaurants.
Shore excursions in Japan vary depending on the port of call. Still, they may include guided city tours, visits to historic temples and shrines, culinary experiences such as sushi-making classes or tea ceremonies, outdoor activities like hiking or cycling, and cultural performances or traditional arts demonstrations.
