Princess Cruises has announced its 2023 Japan cruises and cruisetours program featuring their Japan-built Diamond Princess which will sail over the northern Spring and Summer season.
Marking the 10th anniversary sailing from Tokyo (Yokohama) and Kobe, the MedallionClass ship will call to 38 destinations in four countries on 43 unique itineraries and 57 departures, ranging from 5-19 days.
Princess Cruises Sales and Marketing Director, Nick Ferguson said, “More guests choose Princess for Japan than any other cruise line to experience its rich culture, cuisine, and the treasured island nation’s natural wonders where ancient traditions and fast-paced modernity flourish in harmony.
“On sale today, with a number of itineraries spanning from the southern tropical islands of Okinawa to the northernmost island of Hokkaido, the Japan 2023 program offers Aussies fantastic Fly/Cruise experiences including the top-rated Spring Flowers of Japan 9-day voyage. Our Japan-built ship has been designed with the destination in mind, featuring unique entertainment, Japanese culinary delights, and the largest Japanese bath at sea, Izumi.”
Nick Ferguson shares his top-6 reasons experience Japan with Princess in 2023:
Temples, Shrines, Castles – Our guests delight in the abundance of stunning temples and shrines, like the magnificent 16th century Osaka Castle or Seiryu-ji Temple, home of Japan’s largest bronze seated Buddha.
Festivals – Opportunities to experience seven festivals, including Japan’s world-famous Kyoto Gion Festival, featuring massive, hand-crafted “Yama” and “Hoko” floats that are constructed every year without the use of nails, or watch a display of 10,000 fireworks during the Kumano Fireworks Festival.
Vibrant Cities & Landscapes – Astounding cities where the 21st century coexists with the spirit of ancient Japan thrive, such as shopping in Tokyo’s Ginza district, trying local delicacies at nearby restaurants or exploring the Imperial Palace plaza. With access to seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, guests can marvel at Mt. Fuji, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial and the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto.
Spring Flowers, Gardens and Onsens – Travellers soak in spring flowers all over Japan during spring, whether it’s visiting a classic Japanese garden, seeing hundreds of sakura (cherry blossoms) while picnicking, enjoying the meditative atmosphere of tranquil parks or soaking in the healing benefits of a geothermal “onsen” natural hot spring bath.
Princess says that cruising with Princess is THE Best Way to See Japan – On a cruise with the #1 Line in the island nation of Japan, guests can book airfares with Princess EZair, enjoying low rates, late arrival protection and flexible booking. Princess offers English-speaking guides and shore excursions to enjoy the stunning sights and local culture and features eight “More Ashore” late-night stays in ports such as Akita, Aomori, Hakodate and Osaka (for Kyoto).
Guests can also experience the effortless and personalised Princess MedallionClass holiday, simplifying the guest experience and delivering next-level service.
For those travellers with more time to explore Japan, Princess offers 13- or 14-day Highlights of Japan cruisetours, featuring a multiple-night land tour combined with the cruise, for more time on land to experience the wonders of both Tokyo and Kyoto.
Ferguson added., We’re anticipating Aussies putting Japan firmly back on their travel list in 2023 after watching the Olympic Games at home this winter. I’d encourage Aussie guests to book early given the advanced interest we’ve received for Japan cruise holidays.”
A report by John Alwyn-Jones, Cruise Editor Global Travel Medi and Global Cruise News.
