Princess Cruises has officially announced its most expansive Japan cruise season to date, setting the stage for a landmark deployment in 2027. In a historic move, the cruise line will station two Japanese-built sister ships — Diamond Princess and Sapphire Princess — in Tokyo for an extended season, spanning from March through December 2027.
This bold expansion underscores Princess Cruises’ deepening ties with Japan and marks the first time the cruise line will operate two ships throughout a full season in the country. With 78 sailings across 50 distinct itineraries, the deployment is expected to significantly boost Japan’s position as a top global cruise destination.
Set for public booking from August 20, 2025, this new lineup will offer unforgettable cultural immersion and scenic exploration, further promoting Japan’s regional tourism and sustainable travel initiatives.
A Milestone in Cruise Tourism
President of Princess Cruises, Gus Antorcha, called the 2027 season not just an expansion but a heartfelt “homecoming.” Given Japan’s enduring partnership with the cruise line and the growing interest in immersive travel experiences, this move is timely. Antorcha emphasized that the deployment is designed to offer travellers authentic access to Japan’s natural beauty, world-renowned cherry blossoms, and vibrant festivals.
With the ships built at Mitsubishi Heavy Industries in Nagasaki, the season also carries a symbolic connection — a return of these vessels to their roots.
Comprehensive Japan Cruise Itineraries from Tokyo
Sailing from Tokyo, both Diamond Princess and Sapphire Princess—each with a capacity of 2,670 guests—will journey to 45 destinations across six countries, offering something for every kind of traveller. Each itinerary will range between 7 to 28 days, with embarkation and disembarkation in the Tokyo region, making it accessible for both international and domestic tourists.
Among the top cruise themes are:
🌸 Cherry Blossom Voyages (9–24 Days)
These itineraries are perfectly timed to follow Japan’s cherry blossom season from south to north, across all four main islands. Ports of call include Fukuoka, Osaka, Aomori, and Kanazawa — each offering guests the chance to witness sakura season in full bloom, a bucket-list experience for many travellers.
🎉 Festival Cruises (8–24 Days)
Experience the electrifying energy of Japan’s iconic summer festivals, such as the Aomori Nebuta Matsuri, Tokushima Awa Odori, and Kochi Yosakoi Festival. These sailings include extended port stays to ensure guests can fully enjoy night-time festivities.
🇯🇵 Circle and Grand Japan Voyages (9–28 Days)
For those wanting a comprehensive Japanese experience, these longer cruises provide a full-circle exploration of the country. Highlights include cultural hubs like Kyoto (via Kobe), Hiroshima, and Nagasaki, offering deep insights into Japan’s history and heritage.
🌴 Okinawa & Taiwan Cruises (9–18 Days)
Travelers can explore the tropical beauty of Okinawa alongside the cultural gems of Taipei and Hualien in Taiwan. These voyages offer a unique opportunity to experience the blend of East Asian island cultures in a single journey.
🗾 Japan Explorer Cruises (9–13 Days)
These shorter itineraries are perfect for first-time visitors, featuring iconic Japanese cities like Shimizu (gateway to Mt. Fuji), Kobe, and Kagoshima. Guests can indulge in authentic culinary experiences, historic sites, and UNESCO heritage locations.
Boosting Regional Tourism and Sustainable Travel
Japan’s tourism sector is seeing a significant revival, and cruise tourism is playing a central role. With demand rising from North America, Australia, and Europe, this extended cruise season is expected to boost local economies in port cities, encourage cultural exchange, and support Japan’s national tourism revitalization efforts.
According to the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), international tourism has been on a strong upward trend post-pandemic, and cruise arrivals are a key part of this growth. Local artisans, restaurants, and cultural venues stand to benefit from the influx of international guests.
The use of Tokyo as the primary homeport will also increase visitor spend in the capital region while easing domestic travel connections through Haneda and Narita airports.
Sustainability at Sea
Princess Cruises also emphasized its commitment to sustainable tourism in Japan. Initiatives include advanced fuel efficiency technologies, reduction of onboard single-use plastics, and collaboration with local tourism boards to promote low-impact excursions. These align with Japan’s own efforts to foster eco-conscious travel experiences ahead of upcoming global tourism summits.
Booking and Availability
Reservations for the 2027 Japan cruise season will open to the public on August 20, 2025, via the official Princess Cruises website and travel agents worldwide. Given the high demand for Japan-centric itineraries, early booking is highly recommended.
Conclusion: A New Era for Cruise Travel in Japan
The 2027 deployment represents a turning point in Princess Cruises’ global strategy and Japan’s tourism trajectory. With deeply curated itineraries, immersive cultural experiences, and regional economic benefits, this season is poised to set a new standard in cruise tourism.
Whether it’s marveling at cherry blossoms, dancing at summer festivals, or discovering hidden ports around Japan, these cruises offer an unparalleled way to explore the archipelago. For those looking to combine luxury, culture, and convenience — Japan 2027 is calling.
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