The Best Japan Cruises 2025: An Insider’s Guide to Unforgettable Cultural Experiences
2025.10.29更新
If you’re planning a cruise from Japan, you might be wondering:
- Want to experience authentic Japanese culture and festivals—but not sure where to start?
- Wondering when’s the best time to cruise Japan?
- Curious if you’ll actually get to explore those historic sites you’ve been dreaming about?
If you try looking at cruise line websites, you’ll find that very few of them actually tell you which cruises are the best options for Japan—or more importantly, why. The information just isn’t there.
But don’t worry—I’m here to help.
Cruise Aoi
Hi there! I’m Aoi from Cruise Aoi. I’m your navigator for “Japan cruises”
I’ve personally helped over 5,000 travelers plan their perfect cruise experiences in Japan. I know what works and what doesn’t.
In this article, I’m sharing my top cruise picks for 2025, based on real experiences. I’ll walk you through options that let you experience Japanese culture, stunning natural landscapes, and UNESCO World Heritage sites—and I’ll show you exactly what makes each one special.
By the time you finish reading, you’ll know exactly which cruise is right for you. No more endless research or second-guessing. You’ll be ready to book the journey of a lifetime in Japan.
2025 Japan Cruise Rankings: Our Top Picks Compared
Here’s our ranking of the best Japan cruises for 2025. We evaluated each option based on four key factors: unique Japanese experiences, shore excursion quality, seasonal timing, and value for money.
| Ranking | cruise ship | cruise plan | unique Japanese experiences | shore excursion quality | seasonal timing | value for money |
| 1st | Diamond Princess | Japan’s Top 3 Festivals cruise | (5.0 / 5.0) | (4.0 / 5.0) | (4.5 / 5.0) | (3.5 / 5.0) |
| 2nd | Celebrity Millennium | Japan’s breathtaking cherry blossom season cruise | (3.5 / 5.0) | (4.0 / 5.0) | (5.0 / 5.0) | (4.0 / 5.0) |
| 3rd | Diamond Princess | Cruises around Japan at Spring Blossoms cruise | (3.5 / 5.0) | (5.0 / 5.0) | (5.0 / 5.0) | (4.0 / 5.0) |
1st: Japan’s Top 3 Festivals cruise on Diamond Princess
My top pick? The Diamond Princess cruise that takes you to three of Japan’s most iconic festivals: Nebuta, Yosakoi, and Awa Odori. This is the ultimate festival experience you won’t find anywhere else.
Experience Japanese Summer!
Nebuta · Yosakoi · Awa Odori Festival Cruise
August 5 – 16, 2026 (12 Days)
Departing from Yokohama
CRUISE HIGHLIGHTS
Experience Japan’s 3 major summer festivals combined with luxury cruising in one extraordinary journey. Enjoy authentic festival experiences and ocean relaxation simultaneously!
Cruise Route Overview
Japan & Korea Circular Route
Yokohama
Aomori
(Nebuta)
(Nebuta)
Sakai Port
Busan
(Korea)
(Korea)
Kochi
(Yosakoi)
(Yosakoi)
Tokushima
(Awa Odori)
(Awa Odori)
Osaka
Yokohama
Detailed Daily Itinerary
| Day | Date | Port of Call | Country | Arrival | Departure |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 |
Aug 5 (Wed) | Yokohama |
Japan | — | 4:00 PM |
2 |
Aug 6 (Thu) | Cruising |
— | — | — |
3 |
Aug 7 (Fri) | Aomori Nebuta Festival |
Japan | 8:00 AM | 11:00 PM |
4 |
Aug 8 (Sat) | Cruising |
— | — | — |
5 |
Aug 9 (Sun) | Sakai Port |
Japan | 8:00 AM | 6:00 PM |
6 |
Aug 10 (Mon) | Busan |
Korea | 8:00 AM | 5:00 PM |
7 |
Aug 11 (Tue/Wed) | Cruising |
— | — | — |
8 |
Aug 12 (Wed) | Kochi Yosakoi Festival |
Japan | 7:00 AM | 11:59 PM |
9 |
Aug 13 (Thu) | Tokushima Awa Odori |
Japan | 9:00 AM | 11:59 PM |
10 |
Aug 14 (Fri) | Osaka |
Japan | 7:00 AM | 7:00 PM |
11 |
Aug 15 (Sat) | Shimizu |
Japan | 1:00 PM | 7:00 PM |
12 |
Aug 16 (Sun) | Yokohama |
Japan | Morning | — |
Meal Service: Breakfast 11 times, Lunch 10 times, Dinner 11 times included | Minimum Participants: 1 person | Note: Nebuta Festival schedule is tentative and subject to change based on final announcements.
Three Major Summer Festivals
Aomori Nebuta Festival
Aomori Prefecture
Spectacular illuminated floats parade through the night
Yosakoi Festival
Kochi Prefecture
Energetic dance performances with colorful costumes
Awa Odori Festival
Tokushima Prefecture
Traditional dance festival with rhythmic folk music
Cruise Experience Features
Authentic Festival Experience
Visit three of Japan’s most iconic summer festivals in a single journey. Experience the vibrant culture, traditional performances, and local atmosphere that define Japanese summer celebrations.
Luxury Ocean Voyage
Enjoy comfortable cruising between destinations with world-class amenities, gourmet dining, and relaxing sea days. The perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.
Diverse Destinations
Explore multiple Japanese cities from Aomori in the north to Kyushu, plus an international stop in Busan, Korea. Experience the diversity of East Asian culture in one comprehensive itinerary.
Perfect Timing
Carefully scheduled to coincide with peak festival dates in August. Each port of call is timed to maximize your festival experience while providing ample exploration time.
Culinary Journey
Savor regional Japanese cuisine at each port, complemented by international dining options onboard. Experience authentic local flavors and gourmet meals throughout your voyage.
Cultural Immersion
Connect with local traditions, witness historical performances, and participate in cultural activities. This journey offers deep insights into Japanese summer festival heritage.
Notable Port Attractions
Busan, Korea
Visit the iconic Busan Diamond Tower and explore Korea’s vibrant coastal culture. Shop at traditional markets and enjoy fresh seafood in this dynamic international city.
Shimizu Port
Experience stunning views of Mt. Fuji and explore the historic port city. Visit traditional temples and enjoy green tea in the heart of Shizuoka’s tea country.
Osaka
Discover Japan’s culinary capital with its famous street food, historic Osaka Castle, and vibrant entertainment districts. Experience urban Japan at its finest.
Why Choose This Festival Cruise?
All-Inclusive Festival Access
No need to plan individual festival trips or book separate accommodations. This cruise provides seamless access to all three major festivals with coordinated timing and transportation.
One Accommodation, Multiple Destinations
Unpack once and wake up in a new destination. Your floating hotel eliminates the hassle of checking in and out of different accommodations while maximizing your sightseeing time.
Exceptional Value Package
Includes 32 meals, accommodation, entertainment, and transportation to multiple cities. Compared to booking festivals and travel separately, this cruise offers outstanding value for money.
Balanced Itinerary
Perfect mix of exciting festival days and relaxing sea days. Enjoy cultural immersion at festivals, then unwind with onboard amenities while cruising to the next destination.
Experience the Magic of Japanese Summer!
This once-in-a-lifetime journey combines Japan’s most spectacular summer festivals with the luxury and convenience of ocean cruising. Create unforgettable memories as you dance through Nebuta, Yosakoi, and Awa Odori festivals!
Limited departures available for Summer 2026
2nd: Japan’s breathtaking cherry blossom season cruise on Celebrity Millennium
Coming in at number two is the Celebrity Millennium cruise during Japan’s breathtaking cherry blossom season. This journey is all about combining natural wonders with cultural treasures—think Mount Fuji, Kyoto’s temples, Himeji Castle, Kochi Castle, and the iconic Itsukushima Shrine in Hiroshima.
But here’s what makes this cruise truly special: you’ll experience all of these UNESCO World Heritage sites and cultural landmarks during Japan’s legendary sakura season. We’re talking about that magical one-week window when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom—a fleeting moment that draws travelers from around the world.
Western Japan & Jeju Island Cruise
13-Day Journey | March 28 – April 9, 2026
Voyage Summary
Total Duration
13 Days
Ports of Call
8 Cities
Sea Days
4 Days
Departure Port
Yokohama
Daily Itinerary
Day 1
March 28 (Sat)
Yokohama Departure
17:00
Day 2
March 29 (Sun)
Shimizu
Arrival 07:45
Departure 20:00
Day 3
March 30 (Mon)
Osaka
Arrival 08:00
Overnight Stay
Day 4
March 31 (Tue)
Osaka
Departure 18:00
Day 5
April 1 (Wed)
Kochi
Arrival 08:00
Departure 17:00
Day 6
April 2 (Thu)
Hiroshima
Arrival 09:00
Departure 18:00
Day 7
April 3 (Fri)
Full Day at Sea – Enjoy Ship Amenities
Day 8
April 4 (Sat)
Full Day at Sea – Relax & Recharge
Day 9
April 5 (Sun)
Jeju Island
Arrival 08:00
Departure 17:00
Day 10
April 6 (Mon)
Nagasaki
Arrival 07:00
Departure 18:00
Day 11
April 7 (Tue)
Kagoshima
Arrival 08:00
Departure 17:00
Day 12
April 8 (Wed)
Final Day at Sea – Savor Last Moments
Day 13
April 9 (Thu)
Yokohama Arrival
06:30
Cruise Route Highlights
Yokohama
Shimizu
Osaka
Kochi
Hiroshima
Jeju Island
Nagasaki
Kagoshima
Yokohama
Journey Highlights
Extended stay in Osaka with overnight port experience
International destination: Beautiful Jeju Island, South Korea
Four relaxing days at sea to enjoy ship amenities
Visit eight diverse cities showcasing Western Japan’s culture
Experience regional cuisine from Shimizu to Kagoshima
Stunning coastal views and volcanic landscapes throughout
3rd: Cruises around Japan at Spring Blossoms cruise on Diamond Princess
Spring Blossoms – Japan & Korea Discovery
12-Day Premium Cruise Experience
Journey Overview
Total Duration
12 Days
Ports of Call
9 Cities
Sea Days
2 Days
Countries
2 Nations
Detailed Daily Itinerary
Day 1
4/8 (Wed)
Yokohama
Japan
Departure 16:00
Day 2
4/9 (Thu)
Cruising at Sea
Full Day at Sea – Enjoy Ship Amenities
Day 3
4/10 (Fri)
Nagasaki
Japan
Arrival 10:00
Departure 19:00
Day 4
4/11 (Sat)
Busan
Korea
Arrival 07:00
Departure 16:00
Day 5
4/12 (Sun)
Sakai
Japan
Arrival 09:00
Departure 19:00
Day 6
4/13 (Mon)
Maizuru
Japan
Arrival 07:00
Departure 19:00
Day 7
4/14 (Tue)
Kanazawa
Japan
Arrival 07:00
Departure 16:00
Day 8
4/15 (Wed)
Sakata (Yamagata)
Japan
Arrival 08:00
Departure 17:00
Day 9
4/16 (Thu)
Hakodate
Japan
Arrival 08:00
Departure 17:00
Day 10
4/17 (Fri)
Miyako (Iwate)
Japan
Arrival 07:00
Departure 17:00
Day 11
4/18 (Sat)
Hitachinaka
Japan
Arrival 08:00
Departure 17:00
Day 12
4/19 (Sun)
Yokohama
Japan
Arrival Morning
Cruise Route Overview
Yokohama
Hitachinaka
Yokohama
Journey Highlights & Special Features
Cherry Blossom Season
Experience Japan’s beautiful spring scenery with cherry blossoms and spring flowers in full bloom across multiple regions
International Destination
Visit Busan, South Korea’s vibrant second-largest city, combining Japanese and Korean cultural experiences
Northeast & Western Japan
Explore diverse regions including Tohoku and Hokuriku, experiencing unique local culture, cuisine, and history
Hitachinaka Seaside Park
Visit the stunning Nemophila Blue Garden, featuring millions of baby blue eyes flowers creating a breathtaking azure landscape
Regional Cuisine Experience
Savor authentic local dishes from each port, including fresh seafood, Kanazawa’s traditional cuisine, and Korean specialties
UNESCO Heritage Sites
Visit world-renowned cultural sites including Oura Church in Nagasaki and historic Kanazawa with its preserved Edo-era districts
Featured Destinations & Attractions
Oura Cathedral / Nagasaki
UNESCO World Heritage Site – A historic Catholic church representing the “Hidden Christians of Nagasaki.” This national treasure showcases stunning Gothic architecture and stands as a testament to Japan’s unique religious history.
Goryokaku Park / Hakodate
A unique star-shaped Western-style fortress, one of Japan’s most distinctive historical sites. Spring brings spectacular cherry blossoms, and the observation tower provides panoramic views of this architectural masterpiece.
Coastal Views / Miyako
Experience the stunning Sanriku Coast, featuring dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters. This scenic coastline offers breathtaking natural beauty unique to northeastern Japan.
Hitachinaka Seaside Park / Hitachinaka
Famous for Miharashi Hill’s “Nemophila Blue Garden” – millions of baby blue eyes flowers create a stunning azure carpet that appears to merge with the sky, offering one of Japan’s most Instagram-worthy landscapes.
Important Travel Information
- Total of 11 port calls including 10 Japanese cities and 1 international destination (Busan, Korea)
- International travel requires valid passport – ensure at least 6 months validity from return date
- Best season to view cherry blossoms and spring flowers across multiple regions
- Each port offers approximately 7-12 hours for sightseeing and local exploration
- Shore excursions available at each port (pre-booking recommended)
- Sea days provide opportunities to enjoy onboard amenities and entertainment
Summary: Unforgettable Cultural Experiences
In this article, we’ve explored the best cruise experiences Japan has to offer in 2025. Here’s a quick recap of our top picks:
| Ranking | cruise ship | cruise plan | unique Japanese experiences | shore excursion quality | seasonal timing | value for money |
| 1st | Diamond Princess | Japan’s Top 3 Festivals cruise | (5.0 / 5.0) | (4.0 / 5.0) | (4.5 / 5.0) | (3.5 / 5.0) |
| 2nd | Celebrity Millennium | Japan’s breathtaking cherry blossom season cruise | (3.5 / 5.0) | (4.0 / 5.0) | (5.0 / 5.0) | (4.0 / 5.0) |
| 3rd | Diamond Princess | Cruises around Japan at Spring Blossoms cruise | (3.5 / 5.0) | (5.0 / 5.0) | (5.0 / 5.0) | (4.0 / 5.0) |
I hope this guide helps you plan an amazing trip to Japan. Happy cruising!
If you’re curious to learn more about what makes these Japan-based cruises so special, I’ve put together detailed articles on each one—feel free to check them out!
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I’d love to help you experience Japan in this unique way. Let’s make it happen together!
Cruise Aoi
I’ll keep sharing insider tips and updates about cruising in Japan, so please stop by again soon! I’m here to help you discover the best of Japan. Let’s explore together!
Happy cruising!– , Cruise Aoi