Princess Cruises has announced that it will start homeporting in Japan from 15 March 2023. Diamond Princess, quarantined in the Port of Yokohama at the commencement of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020, will resume operations for the next season, with 57 voyages ranging from five to 19 days.
Diamond was created for the Japanese market and includes amenities such as a big open-air onsen bathing and garden area. “The reopening of Japanese ports to the international cruise industry is an important and welcome move that not only considerably enhances the holiday choices accessible to tourists but also significantly strengthens the Japanese tourism sector,” said Princess President John Padgett.
For cruises departing from 20 February 2023, Princess will also offer the “Princess Plus” and “Princess Premier” tiers, each of which will have new amenities.
Among the upgrades are a selection of new “decadent” Princess Premium desserts and free onboard fitness courses through a newly announced cooperation with Xponential Fitness. There are two daily exercise classes, free Medallion shipping before the cruise, and unlimited juices and sweets with the Princess Plus package.
In addition to exclusive seats at the Princess Theatre, the Princess Premier package includes Wi-Fi for up to four devices, a picture package, two nights of speciality meals, limitless desserts and fitness classes, and more. The company added that new deals might be booked starting on 14 December.
Princess Cruises Japan 2023 Itineraries
These are the itineraries that Princess Cruise will operate in Japan.
- Temples, Shrines, Castles – 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 constructed every year without using 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 – Travelers 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.
