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Princess Cruises Returning to Japan in 2026

Princess Cruises’ Diamond Princess is returning to the scenic island nation of Japan to embark on 50 voyages from seven to 28 days, featuring 35 unique itineraries visiting 38 destinations in three countries from February through November 2026. 

The 2,670-guest Diamond Princess was built by Mitsubishi in Nagasaki, Japan for this destination. She features Japanese-inspired experiences, regional dishes and freshly prepared sushi, fine Japanese whiskeys, sake and shochu, as well as cultural storytelling and arts while onboard. Diamond Princess’ itineraries allow guests to visit temples and shrines, enjoy the culture, arts and cuisine of the region and marvel in the country’s natural wonders and landscapes.

“Only on Princess can you become immersed into Japan’s rich culture, ancient traditions and incredible beauty while enjoying a completely unique onboard fusion of eastern and western cultures,” said John Padgett, Princess Cruises president. “The extended 2026 season lets guests choose a cruise in the season they find most appealing – from spring cherry blossoms, to summer festivals, autumn foliage or snowy, wintry landscapes.”

Diamond Princess’ 2026 season in the land of the rising sun will feature the cherry blossom season, the fall foliage season and the country’s top five festivals including the Kumano Fireworks Festival, a 300-year old festival that takes place every August 17 at the Shichiri Mihama Beach. The two-hour show is one of the largest displays of fireworks in the world. 

Other highlights of the 2026 season include:

  • 10- and 11-day Spring Flowers cruises that visit all four main islands,
  • 9- to 14-day Circle Japan Voyages that circumnavigate the island and include stops in Nagasaki, Kanazawa and Maizuru,
  • 9-day Southern Island voyages make ports of call to Okinawa and Ishigaki in Japan as well as Taipei and Hualien in Taiwan,
  • 7- to 11-day Japan Explorer itineraries include some of the country’s most iconic destinations like Mt. Fuji, Kyoto and Hiroshima, and
  • More late-night port stays include Aomori for the Nebuta Festival, Hakodate for the Minato Festival, Kochi for the Yosakoi Festival, Shimizu for Mt. Fuji and Tokushima for the Awa Odori Festival.

Guests who are looking for a deeper exploration of the region can book voyages ranging from 15 to 28 days.

Diamond Princess will sail to destinations in southeast Asia before she arrives in Japan. Guests can sail a 10-day Vietnam with Ha Long Bay sailing or an 11-day Malaysia & Thailand sailing. Both itineraries sail from Singapore and can be combined for a memorable 21-day Southeast Asia Grand Adventure with Ha Long Bay voyage.