I just circled Japan on a Princess cruise ship. It was a great way to tour the country

Japan’s diverse cultural and geographic tapestry, often overshadowed by its famed metropolitan hubs, unfolds uniquely when experienced by sea. The Diamond Princess cruise ship offers a distinctive itinerary that circles Japan, providing access to remote and often overlooked destinations beyond the typical tourist trail.

Departing from Yokohama, part of the Greater Tokyo area, the nine-night voyage charts a clockwise course along Japan’s extensive coastline, stopping daily at smaller ports such as Sakaiminato, Tsuruga, Toyama, and Akita. Unlike conventional travel routes that focus on Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, this maritime journey dives deep into regional life, showcasing local traditions, historic sites, and natural beauty rarely encountered by short-term land visitors.

One highlight is the visit to Shirakawa-go, a secluded mountainous village famous for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses. These centuries-old structures, constructed without nails and characterized by steep thatched roofs, are located in a valley far from Japan’s major urban centers. Their preservation as a UNESCO World Heritage site offers travelers a glimpse into Japan’s architectural heritage and rural past.

In the port city of Sakaiminato, passengers engage with local fishermen and participate in hands-on experiences like sushi-making classes, accentuating the region’s strong maritime culture. Meanwhile, Tsuruga introduces visitors to artisanal kombu production, a prized kelp variety integral to Japanese cuisine, guided by a fourth-generation craftsman.

The city of Toyama serves as a gateway to the Japanese Alps and the nearby Shirakawa-go village, emphasizing the cruise’s commitment to combining cultural immersion with natural exploration. Further north, Akita brings a rare encounter with maiko, apprentice geisha, during traditional tea ceremonies and performances. The city also offers insights into long-standing food production methods, with family-run breweries specializing in miso and soy sauce demonstrating centuries-old techniques.

The cruise also calls at Nagasaki, a site of profound historical significance due to its role in World War II as the second city devastated by an atomic bomb. The city’s port, nestled within a natural amphitheater of mountains, underscores its strategic importance. Visits to the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum and Peace Park provide sobering reflections on the war’s human cost, while historical areas like Dejima illustrate the city’s unique status during Japan’s isolationist era.

Extending the itinerary beyond Japan, the cruise includes a stop in Busan, South Korea. This addition complies with regulatory requirements for foreign-flagged vessels and enriches the journey with cross-cultural experiences. Visitors enjoy coastal temples, urban cultural sites, and traditional Korean cuisine, including the quintessential barbecue dining experience.

Onboard the Diamond Princess, the cultural immersion continues. The ship integrates authentic Japanese elements, featuring an onsen-style bathhouse and a sushi restaurant crafted by a renowned Japanese chef. Entertainment and amenities blend Western and Japanese influences, catering to a diverse passenger base and enhancing the authenticity of the voyage.

Princess Cruises has strategically positioned the Diamond Princess and its sister ship Sapphire Princess to capitalize on the growing interest in Japan-focused cruises. Both vessels were built in Japan, adding a layer of connection to their itineraries. For 2027, the cruise line plans an expanded schedule with numerous departures that explore Japan’s varied coastal regions, often offering opportunities for extended voyages through consecutive sailings.

By navigating Japan’s less-traveled ports, the Diamond Princess enables a broader understanding of the country’s cultural fabric and geography. This approach offers travelers a richer, more nuanced perspective compared to standard land-based tours, highlighting the value of cruising as a mode of discovery in Japan’s increasingly popular tourism landscape.