Princess Cruises has announced its 2026 Japan cruise season, offering the most immersive and authentic experiences for the culturally curious traveler who likes to plan ahead.
The 2,670-passenger Diamond Princess, built in Japan and designed specifically for this destination, returns for an extended season from February to November 2026, with 50 sailings ranging from 7 to 28 days, on 35 unique itineraries visiting 38 destinations in three countries.
Whatever the itinerary, Diamond Princess passengers will discover legendary cities such as Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Hiroshima; temples and shrines like the Sannai-Maruyama ruins in Aomori, Kochi Castle, and Itsukushima Shrine, home to the most recognizable red torii gate; art, culture, and tradition, from baseball, sumo wrestling, kabuki theater, and Zen gardens; natural wonders and landscapes with the famous cherry blossoms, Mount Fuji, and Nagai Botanical Garden in Osaka; and lively festivals, sake, seafood, and renowned cuisine.
“Only on Princess can you immerse yourself in Japan’s rich culture, ancient traditions, and incredible beauty while enjoying a completely unique onboard fusion of Eastern and Western cultures,” said John Padgett, president of Princess Cruises. “The expanded 2026 season allows guests to choose a cruise in the season that appeals to them most, from spring cherry blossoms to summer festivals, autumn foliage, or snowy winter landscapes.”
2026 Itinerary Highlights:
The season offers the opportunity to see the famous Spring Blossoms, experience the epic Autumn Foliage, and enjoy five festivals, including the Aomori Nebuta Festival and the Kumano Fireworks Festival. Featured itineraries include:
- 10 and 11 day Spring Flower Cruises in March and April around the four main islands, following the predicted flowering season from south to north.
- The Japan Circle trips are 9 to 14 days long and circumnavigate the island of Japan, with stops in Nagasaki, Kanazawa and Maizuru (for Kyoto).
- The 9-day itineraries through the Southern Islands include stops in Okinawa, Ishigaki (Japan), Taipei (Keelung) and Hualien (Taiwan).
- The 7- to 11-day Japan Explorer trips visit some of the country's most iconic destinations, such as Shimizu (to see Mount Fuji), Osaka (to see Kyoto), and Hiroshima.
- Longer trips, from 15 to 28 days, allowing for a deeper exploration of the region.
- More overnight stays in six ports, including Aomori (for the Nebuta Festival), Hakodate (for the Minato Festival), Kochi (for the Yosaki Festival), Shimizu (for Mount Fuji) and Tokushima (for the Awa Odori Festival).
Great Adventures in Southeast Asia
Before the Diamond Princess arrives for the Japan season, the ship sails to exotic destinations in Southeast Asia, with opportunities to explore Vietnam, Malaysia, and Thailand in January 2026, including:
- 10-day Vietnam tour with Halong Bay, sailing round trip from Singapore and visiting Ho Chi Minh City, Nha Trang, Halong Bay/Hanoi with scenic cruise and Da Nang.
- 11-day Malaysia and Thailand tour from Singapore with stopovers in Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi, Phuket, Penang, Ko Samui and Bangkok.
These two itineraries can be combined for an unforgettable 21-day Grand Adventure through Southeast Asia with Halong Bay, round trip from Singapore.
On board the Diamond Princess,
built by Mitsubishi in Nagasaki, the Diamond Princess offers uniquely designed and Japanese-inspired experiences, such as an Izumi bath inspired by a traditional onsen, regional dishes at the Noodle Bar or freshly prepared sushi at Kai Sushi, fine Japanese whiskeys, sake and shochu, 400-year-old traditional storytelling of "rakugo", evenings filled with karaoke and folk dancers showcasing the arts.
The Princess Experience
: Whatever cruise you choose, Princess offers the award-winning Princess MedallionClass experience, providing unparalleled service and personalization. Guests who book can take advantage of Princess Plus and Princess Premier packages (with unlimited offers) that add popular amenities such as Wi-Fi, beverages, specialty dining, fitness classes, gratuities, and much more, saving up to 65% compared to purchasing package services separately.
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