For the first time, Princess Cruises will deploy two ships to Japan in 2027. The cruise line’s two Japanese-built, sister ships–Diamond Princess and Sapphire Princess–will offer 78 departures from the Tokyo region during the entire season. The ships will sail 50 unique itineraries ranging from seven to 28 days between March and December 2027.
“This upcoming 2027 season is more than an expansion – it’s a homecoming,” said Gus Antorcha, President of Princess Cruises. “Our story in Japan has deepened over time and experience and in 2027, we return promising unforgettable experiences, including the renowned Cherry Blossoms, seven spectacular festivals and journeys that immerse you in the awe and wonder of this destination.”
Both Diamond Princess and Sapphire Princess were built at Mitsubishi Heavy Industries shipyard in Nagasaki. The 2.670-passenger Gem-class vessels entered service in 2004. Between March and December 2027, they will take passengers to 45 cruise destinations across 6 countries.
The ships will offer a wide range of itineraries. The “Cherry Blossom Voyages” are sailed in August and timed to follow the blooming season–south to north–across all four of Japan’s main islands. The “Festival Cruises” will allow passengers to celebrate Japan’s most vibrant summer festivals. The seven festivals include late-night stays in port and culminate in the Kumano Fireworks Festival which provides a display of more than 10,000 fireworks.
The “Circle and Grand Japan Voyages” afford the opportunity to circumnavigate the country. The “Okinawa & Taiwan Itineraries” explore the beauty of Okinawa and the rich culture of Taipei and Hualien. Lastly, the “Japan Explorer Cruises” allow passengers to discover Mt Fuji, Kyoto, and Kagoshima.
The itineraries offer 12 More Ashore late-night stays in destinations like Osaka, Hiroshima, Hakodate, Sakata and Halong Bay. Guests can also visit 21 UNESCO World Heritage Sites including Mt. Fuji, the Itsukushima Shrine & Hiroshima Peach Memorial, the Ancient Kyoto Monuments and the Jomon Prehistoric Sites. While onboard, guests will experience sailing past Mt. Fuji in Shimizu Bay, cruising the Kanmon Straits and Japan Inland Sea, and viewing the Sakurajima Volcano from Kagoshima Bay.
While onboard, guests will experience various Japanese touches including regional dishes and Japanese whiskeys, sake and shochu. Guests can enjoy an evening of karaoke or the 400-year tradition of storytelling–rakugo.
Bookings for the 2027 Japan season will open on August 20, 2025 and guests who book by August 27, 2025 will enjoy Captain’s Circle Savings.