Princess Cruises, a global leader in the cruise industry, has announced its historic step forward for 2027, presenting the most extensive Japan cruise season to date. In a move that celebrates the brand's deep ties to this fascinating country, two sister ships, Diamond Princess and Sapphire Princess, both built in Japan, will sail from the Tokyo region throughout the entire season, from March to December 2027. This ambitious program represents the culmination of Princess Cruises' long-standing presence in Asia, offering passengers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse themselves in Japanese culture.

The announced program for 2027 includes as many as 78 departures across 50 unique itineraries, with voyage durations ranging from seven to an impressive 28 days. This makes this season the most robust and detailed offering for Japan the company has ever presented. Sales for these exclusive voyages will begin in nine days, on August 20, 2025, giving interested travelers the chance to secure their spot on these unique journeys in a timely manner.

"The upcoming 2027 season is more than just an expansion – it's a homecoming," said Gus Antorcha, President of Princess Cruises. "Our story in Japan has deepened over time through experience, and in 2027, we return with the promise of unforgettable experiences, including the world-famous cherry blossoms, seven spectacular festivals, and journeys that immerse you in the awe and wonder of this destination."

Return to the Roots: Two Ships Built in Japan

At the heart of this historic season are two identical ships, Diamond Princess and Sapphire Princess. The special feature of these vessels is the fact that both were built at the Mitsubishi Heavy Industries shipyard in Nagasaki, making their return to Japanese waters a symbolic "homecoming." Each ship can accommodate 2,670 guests, offering them an intimate yet luxurious travel experience. Across a total of 45 destinations in 6 countries, passengers will have the opportunity to explore not only Japan but also the wider region, making each journey a unique adventure.

This decision underscores Princess Cruises' commitment to providing an authentic experience. Passengers will sail on ships that are themselves a part of Japan's industrial heritage, further deepening the connection with the destination. The season, which extends from early spring to late autumn, allows visitors to experience Japan in all its different faces, from the delicate pink hues of sakura to the vibrant colors of autumn leaves.

From the Magical Cherry Blossoms to Fiery Summer Festivals

The itineraries for 2027 are carefully designed to provide passengers with the most memorable experiences Japan has to offer. Special emphasis is placed on two key cultural phenomena: the cherry blossoms and summer festivals (matsuri).

• Cherry Blossom Cruises (9 to 24 days): These cruises are timed to follow the wave of blossoms, known as "sakura zensen," which moves from south to north across all four main Japanese islands. Passengers will witness breathtaking scenes as parks, temples, and riverbanks transform into a pink-and-white dream.


• Festival Cruises (8 to 24 days): Japan is famous for its vibrant summer festivals, and Princess Cruises allows guests to be at the center of the action. Thanks to late-evening stays in ports, passengers can fully experience the energy and tradition of seven spectacular festivals.

Among the featured festivals guests can experience are:

• Aomori Nebuta Matsuri (August 2 & 7): One of the most dynamic festivals in Japan, known for its enormous, illuminated paper floats depicting mythical heroes and warriors, carried through the streets by energetic dancers.


• Hakodate Minato Matsuri (August 3): A maritime celebration with a historical parade and spectacular floats that celebrate the rich history of the city of Hakodate.


• Akita Kanto Matsuri (August 6): A festival where performers balance tall bamboo poles (kanto) from which up to a hundred lit paper lanterns hang, symbolizing a prayer for a rich rice harvest.


• Yamagata Hanagasa Matsuri (from Sakata, August 7): A colorful celebration with more than 10,000 local dancers who dance to the rhythm of taiko drums, wearing hats decorated with flowers.


• Kochi Yosakoi Dance Festival (August 12): One of the largest dance festivals in Japan, with vibrant dance teams and an infectious energy that encourages the audience to participate.


• Tokushima Awa Odori Dance Festival (August 13): An event with a centuries-long tradition, known for the joyous "Fool's Dance" performed throughout the city to a famous chant.


• Kumano Fireworks Festival (August 17): A stunning display with more than 10,000 fireworks that illuminate the night sky over the sacred Kumano region.

Explore Every Corner of Japan: From Imperial Cities to Subtropical Islands

The diversity of itineraries ensures that every traveler can find a journey that suits their interests. From a complete tour of the country to focused explorations of specific regions, the offering is truly comprehensive.

• "Circle Japan" and "Grand Japan Tour" voyages (9 to 28 days): These journeys allow passengers to circumnavigate the entire country, visiting key cities and ports like Osaka, Hiroshima, Nagasaki, and many others, providing a complete insight into the diversity of the Japanese archipelago.


• Okinawa and Taiwan Itineraries (9 to 18 days): Explore the subtropical beauty of the Okinawa islands, known for their turquoise seas and unique culture, and discover the cultural richness of Taipei and Hualien in Taiwan.


• "Japan Explorer" Cruises (9 to 13 days): Ideal for those who want to discover iconic cities and sights, including a visit to Shimizu (for Mount Fuji), Kobe (for Kyoto), and Kagoshima.

An added value of these journeys is the "More Ashore" concept, which includes 12 ports with extended, late-evening stays. This gives guests more time to explore vibrant destinations such as Osaka, Hiroshima, Hakodate, Sakata, and even Halong Bay in Vietnam, allowing them to experience the nightlife and evening ambiances of these cities.

Immersion in World Heritage and Spectacular Sights from the Sea

Journeys with Princess Cruises are not just visits to cities, but also journeys through history and nature. Guests will have the opportunity to visit as many as 21 UNESCO World Heritage sites, including some of the world's most significant cultural and natural monuments.

Among them, the following stand out:

• Mount Fuji (from Shimizu port): The undisputed symbol of Japan, whose majesty is breathtaking.


• Itsukushima Shrine and Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park (from Hiroshima): A visit to the shrine with its famous "floating" torii gate and paying respects at a site that serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of peace.


• Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto (from Kobe or Osaka): Exploring the former imperial capital with its countless temples, shrines, and beautiful gardens.


• Jōmon Prehistoric Sites (from Aomori or Hakodate): An insight into the life and culture of the prehistoric hunter-gatherers of the Jōmon period.

In addition to shore excursions, the cruise itself provides unforgettable visual experiences. Passengers will be able to enjoy scenic cruising past Mount Fuji in Shimizu Bay, navigate through the narrow Kanmon Strait and the Inland Sea of Japan, and admire the active Sakurajima volcano from Kagoshima Bay. These sights from the sea offer a unique perspective on the natural beauty of Japan.

Japanese Culture at Sea: Gastronomy and Entertainment

The Japan experience continues even after returning to the ship. Onboard the Diamond Princess and Sapphire Princess, guests will be able to enjoy authentic Japanese details that enrich the overall experience. The culinary offerings will include regional dishes such as various types of noodles and freshly prepared sushi. The beverage selection will feature fine Japanese whiskies, sake, and shochu, providing an insight into the rich tradition of Japanese drinks.

Cultural enrichments go beyond food and drink. Guests will be able to enjoy "rakugo," a 400-year-old tradition of comedic storytelling, where a single performer skillfully brings an entire story to life. For those craving more modern entertainment, there are karaoke nights, a favorite Japanese pastime, as well as performances by folkloric dancers who bring the vibrant stories of Japanese culture to the stage. Guests who book their cruise by August 27, 2025, will receive a discount for Captain's Circle loyalty club members of up to $200 per cabin.