Japan Explorer Cherry Blossoms

Pricing is based on departure date: 29 March 2027

Japan is a country of bullet trains and mountain shrines, of midnight ramen and thousand-year rituals—and with Princess, you get to thread through it all without the usual travel chaos. No train apps. No hotel check-ins. Just a smooth glide from Tokyo to Kagoshima to Hiroshima, where every port brings a new version of Japan into focus (without packing, train schedules or language barriers). Onboard, enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine, cultural performances and thoughtful touches that reflect the spirit of Japan. With Princess, Japan isn’t just a destination; it’s a story you’ll live, effortlessly.

Japan’s cultural heritage shines through daily life—from the elegance of a tea ceremony to the energy of festival season. With Princess, you’ll witness these traditions up close. It’s not just about observing traditions—it’s about experiencing them in the places where they were born.

ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS

Toba

Located at the northeastern end of the Shima-hanto Peninsula in Mie, flourished as the castle town of the Kuki family who ruled this region from the 16th century. It was also a landing spot for visitors on the sea route to Ise-jingu Shrine and belongs to Ise-Shima National Park.

Wakayama
The bustling port of Shimotsu is the gateway to Wakayama Prefecture and its capital city. With over 372 miles (600 km) of coastline, all of the delights of the sea are on offer, including snorkeling, swimming or scuba diving off one of its many white-sand beaches, marveling at the underwater world on display at the aquarium in the Museum of Natural History, and watching the intricate process of preparing a massive tuna in the Kuroshio Market. Known as 'Onsen Heaven', Wakayama is home to a variety of geothermal bathing experiences, a treasured Japanese tradition for centuries. 

Kochi

A wholesome city blessed with green mountains and a network of blue rivers. The hub of the Kochi prefecture on the island of Shikoku, the city’s streets are bustling hubs of activity & walk by vendors selling everything from grilled Bonito fish to authentic secondhand kimonos.

Kagoshima

From the 12th century to the Meiji Restoration of 1868, Kagoshima was the chief stronghold of the mighty Shimazu clan. The city lies at the top of the Satsuma Peninsula, a mountainous, geothermal wonderland of hot springs and geysers. The area is also rich in modern Japanese history: Saigo Takamori and the Satsuma samurai were leaders of the Meiji Restoration that toppled the shogun and restored the Emperor to power in 1868. In 1877, dissatisfied with the direction of the new government, Saigo led the Satsuma Rebellion, which ended in his death and the final defeat of the samurai.

Yatsushiro

Yatsushiro city was developed around a beautiful Shinto shrine, built during the Heian era (794–1185). Situated along the delta of the Kuma River, facing Yatsushiro Bay, this castle town and its ruins still showcase the spirit of the city. A visit to the ruins of Yatsushiro Castle (now part of a Shinto shrine) is a good place to begin your day. Another fun and scenic landmark is the flight of 777 stairs cut into the nearby mountains. Visitors are rewarded with panoramic views from the top – there are benches to rest on along the way! Yatsushiro is famous for its 16th century pottery designed with a distinctive blue-gray crackled glaze with white inlay. Craft enthusiast and collectors can visit three Kodayaki kilns in the area. 

Busan (Pusan)

Despite its status as Korea's second largest city, Pusan (or Busan) does not neglect the country's obsession with nature. The city's undulating hills result in an unusual mix of forested slopes, rugged beaches, lurching cliffs and hot springs. Pusan's seafood is legendary.

Your Ship: Sapphire Princess

From sumptuous dining to captivating diversions, discover the many riches of this gem.

As you set your sights on the wonders of the world, let Sapphire Princess indulge your every whim. Over 700 balconies, world-class gourmet dining and dazzling entertainment options are just the beginning of your sea-going adventure. Dance the night away, enjoy casino gaming or relax and rejuvenate body and mind at the Lotus Spa®.

Tokyo, Toba, Wakayama, Kochi, Kagoshima, Yatsushiro, Busan (Pusan), Kanmon Straits, Hiroshima, At Sea, Tokyo

All fares are displayed in AUD, and pricing is per person based on twin share occupancy unless stated otherwise. Although all due care is taken to keep information as up-to-date as possible, pricing and availability are subject to change without notice: due to varying timing schedules of supplier automated update processes; currency fluctuations; fuel surcharges or government tax & fee changes and may not be guaranteed until paid in full. Gratuities may be an additional onboard charge depending on particular cruise line selected. Please ask your cruise consultant for any clarification of Terms & Conditions.