Ultimate Japan Cruise tour: The Harmony of Land and Sea

Pricing is based on departure date: 14 October 2026

Experience Japan in a way few itineraries allow, beginning with a remarkable five-night land extension that immerses you in Kyoto’s ancient grace and Tokyo’s vibrant modern pulse before you even set sail. As the cruise unfolds, nine peaceful sea days frame visits to captivating ports including Nagasaki, Busan, Hiroshima, Miyazaki, Tokushima and Shimizu. Blending deep cultural exploration with serene ocean horizons, this journey offers a rare and beautifully balanced way to embrace Japan by both land and sea.

Why We Love This Princess Cruise Tour

• Explore Japan with 5 immersive land nights in Kyoto and Tokyo before your cruise.
• Visit captivating ports including Nagasaki, Busan, Hiroshima, Miyazaki, Tokushima and Shimizu.
• Relax during 10 serene sea days with all the comforts of Princess Plus including drink package, casual dinings, Wi-Fi, and selected onboard experiences.
• A rare journey blending culture, city life, and ocean calm into one unforgettable adventure.

Itinerary Map

Land Map

Landtour Portion

Day 1
Kyoto, Japan

Arrive in Osaka and head to magical Kyoto, where you will enjoy an evening at leisure. Overnight at the Kyoto Hotel Okura.

Day 2
Kyoto, Japan

Today you will sightsee to some of Kyoto’s greatest attractions — including stunning 410-year-old Nijō Castle, site of two lavish palaces and several beautiful gardens, and the stunning Sanju Sangendo shrine. Savor lunch at a local restaurant followed by the unforgettable Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion) and Arashiyama strolling. Dine in a traditional Japanese restaurant with a Maiko show, sure to be a highlight. Overnight at the Kyoto Hotel Okura. (B, L, D)

Day 3
Tokyo, Japan

Head to Nara to visit the impressive Todaiji Temple (Great Buddha) and breathtaking Kasuga Taisha Shrine before boarding the famous bullet train to Tokyo for an evening at leisure. Enjoy dinner at the hotel’s restaurant. Overnight at the Grand Nikko Daiba Hotel Tokyo. (B, L, D)

Day 4
Tokyo, Japan

This is Tokyo, one of the most thrilling cities on earth. An introductory sightseeing tour takes you to the Meiji Shrine, Sensoji Temple and Nakamise Shopping Street, followed by a drive through the iconic Ginza District. The afternoon and evening are yours to take in even more of Tokyo’s countless attractions at your own pace. Overnight at the Grand Nikko Daiba Hotel Tokyo. (B)

Day 5
Tokyo, Japan

Embark on a captivating journey to Hakone, a destination renowned for its scenic beauty and cultural attractions. Immerse yourself in the world of art at the Hakone Open Air Museum. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before you embark on a picturesque cruise across Lake Ashi, taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Your journey to Togendai promises awe-inspiring landscapes. Ascend to new heights aboard the Hakone Ropeway, offering panoramic vistas of the region. Your destination: Owakudani Station, where adventure awaits. Explore the Owakudani Valley at your own pace. Descend from Owakudani Station via the Hakone Ropeway, reveling in the changing landscapes as you make your way to Souunzan Station. As your day in Hakone draws to a close, board your transfer for a leisurely drive back to Tokyo. Overnight at the Grand Nikko Daiba Hotel Tokyo. (B, L)

Day 6
Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan

After breakfast, visit Tokyo Skytree Tembo Deck at 1,148 feet, for a remarkable city skyline view before joining Diamond Princess. (B)

Cruise Portion

Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan

Yokohama and Edo began life as sleepy fishing villages. That changed in the early 17th century after Tokugawa Ieyasu became Shogun. Edo became the center of political power in Japan, a position the city retained even after the restoration of Imperial rule in 1866.Contemporary Tokyo may be the most astonishing city on earth. It's a paradoxical mix of ancient tradition and postmodern culture. The Ginza - an international shopping mecca - stands near the serene grounds of the Imperial Palace, and the hyper-speed of 21st century consumerism is mysteriously reconciled with the elegance and serenity of traditional culture. Tokyo provides the traveler with a dizzying experience.With the Meiji Restoration of 1868, Edo was renamed Tokyo, the "Eastern Capital," to distinguish it from the old imperial capital at Kyoto, the "Western Capital."

Nagasaki, Japan

For most travelers, Nagasaki is a symbol of the horror and the inhumanity of war. An estimated 75,000 people perished in 1945 when the city became the second target of a nuclear attack. Today, Nagasaki's Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum draw visitors from around the world.But this beautiful city on Kyushu offers other sights. Often described as the San Francisco of Japan, the city occupies verdant hills surrounded by a deep-water bay. For three centuries, Nagasaki was Japan's sole window on the world. The city is also celebrated as the setting for Puccini's opera "Madame Butterfly."

Busan, South Korea

The second largest city in South Korea, Busan is your gateway to a fascinating land whose culture is a unique amalgam of old and new. Modern high-rise towers dwarf ancient Buddhist temples. The city's bustling business district offers a stark contrast to the serene grounds of Yongdusan Park. In short, Busan is a microcosm of South Korea, a nation whose startling economic success often obscures one of Asia's most sophisticated and venerable cultures.Busan was the scene of bitter fighting during the Korean War. The United Nations Memorial Cemetery marks the final resting place for the troops from 16 nations who gave their lives during the conflict.

Kanmon Straits, Japan

The Kanmon Straits, also known as the Straits of Shimonoseki, is a narrow body of water in Japan. The strait separates Honshu, the main island, from Kyushu, the southernmost of Japan's major islands.

Hiroshima, Japan

On August 6, 1945, human history was irrevocably altered when the American bomber Enola Gay dropped an atomic bomb on Hiroshima. The bomb was code-named "Little Boy," but its detonation left half the city in ruins and aflame. Today, Hiroshima is a monument not only to the destructive forces harnessed by men but also to the indomitable will of the human spirit to overcome tragedy. At the heart of the city lies Peace Memorial Park and the Atomic Bomb Dome. The gutted walls of the city's old Industry Promotion Hall and the skeletal frame that supported its copper dome, vaporized in the blast, are instantly recognizable symbols of Hiroshima.Travelers to Hiroshima will discover a more serene note at nearby Miyajima Island. One of the top-three scenic spots of Japan, the island is home to ancient Itsukushima Shrine, a designated National Treasure.

Miyazaki (aburatsu), Japan

Boasting the second warmest temperatures in Japan, Miyazaki offers a playground of outdoor activities that take full advantage of its balmy breezes and aquamarine waters. A resort atmosphere permeates Miyazaki, fragranced by blooms from local botanical gardens. Emerald green golf courses, some of the best surfing in Japan, and a zoo with the largest number of flamingos in captivity in all of Japan add to the festive atmosphere. A Peace Tower, built with stones from throughout Asia anchors the city and Heiwadai Park and is one of the most noted landmarks. Visit Haniwa Gardens where over 400 replica haniwa (burial statues) make for wonderful photo opportunities, and see Miyazaki's history and culture on display at The Miyazaki Prefectural Museum of Nature and History, located on the same grounds as the picturesque Miyazaki Shrine. For a change of pace, stop into the Miyazaki Science Center where an animatronics "Dr. Cosmo" welcomes you to this hands-on museum. Looking for a little adventure? Try a side trip to Aoshima, a small island just off the coast of Miyazaki City, and enjoy the charming Aoshima Shrine and over 400 species of subtropical plants. The options are endless in Miyazaki to soak up local color…or just soak up the sun!

Tokushima, Japan

Born as a 16th century castle town whose remains now lay scattered near a park and museum, Tokushima is best known for its colorful summer dance festival, the Awa Odori. But it may be Mother Nature who garners the most attention. Surrounded by 3,280-foot-tall mountains that hint at the wonders that lie beyond, the city is the perfect gateway to the mesmerizing Naruto whirlpools, the panoramic views from atop Mt. Bizan, and the spectacular gorges and vine bridges of Iya Valley. Whether you're entranced with the ways of the warrior, or under the spell of the extraordinary attractions, Tokushima offers exciting new experiences and unforgettable new adventures.

Your Ship: Diamond Princess®

Diamond Princess is a treasure trove of exceptional delights waiting to be discovered. Dine on freshly prepared sashimi in Kai Sushi, watch street performers in the dazzling Piazza, or take in a lavish production show in our state-of-the-art theater. And for a unique treat visit the Izumi Japanese Bath, the largest of its kind at sea.

What’s included with your vacation

Princess Plus is applicable to guests 1 & 2 who will receive the following:

• Plus beverage package with service charge included for guests age 18 years & older (21 on some international voyages).
  ***Guests under that age of will receive the Zero-Alcohol Package.
• MedallionNet WiFi is unlimited, one device per applicable guest.
• Four (4) Casual Dining meals per applicable guest.
• OceanNow® delivery included to order food and drinks to select locations on board.
• Free delivery for every order you place from your stateroom phone
• Live shows and entertainment
• Most onboard activities and games

Kyoto, Tokyo (Yokohama), At Sea, Nagasaki, Busan, Kanmon Straits, Hiroshima, Miyazaki (Aburatsu), Tokushima, Shimizu (For Mt. Fuji), At Sea, Tokyo (Yokohama)

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.