JAPAN CRUISES
A land with an ancient heart, proud of its centuries-old and sacred traditions, yet with a firm calling for the future. In Japan, the sacred aura of Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines weaves into the advanced high-tech, the towering skyscrapers, the glimmering lights, and the vibrant nightlife of Tokyo, Osaka and Yokohama. Embark on a Japan cruise and venture into a land of ethereal bamboo forests, serene Zen gardens for physical and spiritual quietness, historic wooden temples, and a famed Ukiyo-e iconography that captures the essence of Japanese beauty through its depictions of people adorned in traditional kimonos and yukatas set against the backdrop of stunning seascapes and forests.
On a Japanese cruise, every city reveals the country’s magnificent heritage. From the Golden Pavilion in Kyoto to the Floating Torii Gate in Miyajima, from the Todai-ji Temple in Nara, home to one of the world’s largest bronze Buddha sculptures, to the Osaka Castle among the many other monumental landmarks that showcase the brilliance of Japanese culture.
A JOURNEY TO THE LAND OF THE RISING SUN
Have you ever wondered how many islands there are in Japan? Almost 7,000, each boasting a range of magnificent landscapes, from the snow-capped peak of the sacred Mount Fuji to the vibrant fields during cherry blossom season, from the tropical coastlines of the Okinawa archipelago to the many thrilling cities waiting to be explored. With MSC Cruises, you can truly savor the myriad colors, flavors, and scents of this country, choosing from unmissable itineraries that will introduce you to the land of the Rising Sun in ways you never could have imagined.
From cruises around Japan, taking you from Tokyo to the northern island of Hokkaido and down to the southern island of Kyūshū, to journeys towards the azure seas and white beaches of Ishigaki island, our Japan cruises will be your gateway to a world of unparalleled surprises, where the colors of this extraordinary land will leave you in awe.
BEST JAPAN CRUISES 2024 – 2025
Japan is much more than a land to explore, it’s a feeling where contrasts bind together in a surprising embrace, where the age-old wisdom of Zen and stories of heroic samurai blend with the vibrant culture of manga, anime and the latest musical stars of J-pop. If you are hungry for culture and adventure, choose an MSC Cruise to Japan which will also open the door for you to explore other Far Eastern countries such as China, the Republic of Korea and Taiwan (China) for a remarkable journey that will continue to surprise and delight long after you return.
CRUISES TO JAPAN AND CHINA
Embark on your cruise to the Far East, setting sail from the dynamic metropolis of Tokyo, with the vibrant energy of Shibuya and the culinary delights of the renowned Tsukiji Fish Market. You will be mesmerized by the modern architecture of Pudong, and the classical Yuyuan Garden of Shanghai. Be enchanted from the volcanic landscapes of Hallasan National Park and the unique culture of Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak of Gangjeong and marvel at the active volcano Sakurajima and the Sengan-en Garden of Kagoshima. Be fascinated by the iconic Kochi Castle and the Chikurin-ji Temple of Kochi and explore the futuristic Minato Mirai district and stunning views of Mount Fuji in Yokohama.
CRUISES TO JAPAN AND TAIWAN (CHINA)
Departing from Yokohama you will have the possibility to visit Keelung, the gateway to Taipei, exploring the historic streets of Jiufen, marvel at the impressive National Palace Museum, and savor local delicacies at the Shilin Night Market. In Ishigaki, relax on the sandy shores of Kabira Bay, explore the vibrant streets of Ishigaki City, and discover the lush landscapes of Tamatorizaki Observatory. While in Naha, the vibrant capital of Okinawa, dive into the rich history of Shuri Castle, strolling through the bustling Kokusai Street, and unwinding at the peaceful Shikinaen Garden.
CRUISES TO JAPAN AND REPUBLIC OF KOREA
For a longer adventure, choose a stunning cruise from Tokyo, with a circumnavigation of Japan and one stop in Korea. The new destinations not explored in the previous itineraries are Muroran surrounded by scenic mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Sakata with the well-preserved Samurai District and the charming Sankyo Warehouse, Kanazawa known for its rich cultural heritage and the historic Kenrokuen Garden. Busan takes you to the historic Beomeosa Temple and the Gamcheon Culture Village, Yatsushiro beckons with the visit to the picturesque Yatsushiro Castle and the Yatsushiro Traditional Craft Village. While in Osaka, visit the historic Osaka Castle and the Dotonbori district.
JAPAN CRUISE DEALS
A holiday in Japan will undoubtedly exceed the expectations of even the most discerning traveler. Whether you desire to savor the exquisite Japanese cuisine at a traditional Izakaya, engage in shopping along the fashionable streets of Harajuku and Shibuya in Tokyo – the unrivaled fashion hub of Asia – or delve into the serene and sacred aspects of Japanese culture, all you have to do is select from our best itineraries and exceptional Japan cruise deals to embark on a journey that will create lasting memories to cherish forever.
Book your Japan holiday with MSC Cruises and take advantage of the best price for your adventure in the land of the Rising Sun.
JAPAN PORTS
Find soulful energy and soothing serenity in these lands of contrast, where turquoise waters and landscapes of profound beauty alternate with amazing ancient wonders or the buzz of city living. Whether you choose to set sail from Tokyo or Yokohama, MSC Cruises’ itineraries in Japan will immerse you in the very best this remarkable country has to offer.
NAHA (OKINAWA) CRUISES
Experience a different side of Japan! Immerse yourself in the warm sea breeze and the lush tropical nature of the southern Japanese islands with MSC Cruises itineraries departing from Naha. Explore the natural grandeur of Miyako Island or the coral beaches of Ishigaki, and reach Kabira Bay, renowned for black pearl farming, and even reach the charming island of Taipei.
Immerse yourself in a holiday of crystal-clear seas, tropical beaches, and stunning sunsets! From Naha, you can also reach China with departures to Shanghai. Choose your cruise from Naha and discover a sea of emotions.
TOKYO CRUISES
Tokyo, Japan’s vibrant capital, seamlessly blends modern technology with ancient sites, showcased by the awe-inspiring Asakusa Buddhist temple and the Meiji Shinto shrine. Departing from Tokyo, you can embark on a cruise circumnavigating Japan, making your way to Muroran in Hokkaido, the northernmost island of Japan, before heading down to Kanazawa. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to visit Shirakawa-go and its famed traditional houses known as “Gassho-zukuri,” which have been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Reach the Republic of Korea with a trip to Busan, where you can indulge in a shopping spree at the Shinsegae Centum City Department Store, the world’s largest shopping centre. When visiting Osaka, make sure to discover the stunning Himeji Castle, a renowned ancient stronghold that stands as one of Japan’s main historical monuments, or take a moment to immerse yourself in the tranquil splendor of the Tōdai-ji Buddhist temple.
YOKOHAMA CRUISES
With a cruise from Yokohama, you will set sail to discover some of the most iconic destinations in Japan. In Kobe reach Mount Rokko for a breathtaking panoramic view of the city or opt for an MSC excursion to explore the magnificent Himeji and Engyoji castles. While in Kagoshima, marvel at the Sakurajima volcano, one of Japan’s most famous natural landmarks.
Cruises departing from Yokohama also reach Jeju Island in the Republic of South Korea, dominated by Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak), a stunning volcanic crater overlooking the ocean and UNESCO World Heritage site. Alternatively, make your way to the enchanting Okinawa archipelago and dive into the tropical waters of Naha and Ishigaki, all the way to Taipei.
