5-Star Japan 11-Night 2027 Cruise

Experience the unique culture and fascinating history of East Asia on this professionally organised 5-star Japan night cruise. This 11-night Escorted Tour and cruise holiday departs from Dublin and takes you on a journey through some of Japan’s most iconic ports, with a visit to Busan in South Korea. Sailing on the Sapphire Princess, you will enjoy a high standard of service and comfort as you travel between destinations. This ship is well-equipped for your comfort, featuring over 700 balconies, world-class dining, and the rejuvenating Lotus Spa, ensuring that your time at sea is as enjoyable as your time on land.
Your Japan night cruise begins in the vibrant city of Tokyo before heading to Toba, a historic castle town and gateway to the Ise-Shima National Park. You will then visit Kochi, where the impressive 1611 castle stands as a testament to the region’s feudal past. Crossing into South Korea, you will spend time in Busan, a bustling city where modern high-rises stand alongside ancient Buddhist temples and the poignant United Nations Memorial Cemetery. The itinerary is designed to provide a balanced mix of history, culture, and relaxation, allowing you to see the best of the region without the stress of constant travel.
As the cruise continues, you will call at Nagasaki, a city that transformed from a sole window to the West into a symbol of peace. You will also see the volcanic island of Sakura Jima in Kagoshima and visit the oldest hot springs in the country at Matsuyama. In Miyazaki, the subtropical climate provides a relaxed atmosphere for exploring botanical gardens and ancient burial statues. Before returning to Tokyo, the ship stops in Kobe, renowned for its cosmopolitan flair and proximity to the ancient capital of Kyoto. This is a full board holiday, meaning your meals on board are included, along with return flights from Dublin, transfers, and taxes. Whether you are interested in the samurai history of Kagoshima or the literary traditions of Matsuyama, this cruise offers a straightforward and great value way to explore the wonders of Japan.
What is included in the cruise price?
What are the deposit and payment terms?
Can I extend my stay in Tokyo?
What's Included+
- Booking advice from your Travel Escapes travel advisor
- Flight from Dublin to Tokyo
- Return transfers from airport to port
- 11 nights onboard the 5* Sapphire Princess based on 2 sharing
- Superb dining on a full board basis while on board
- Entertainment onboard
- Return transfer from port to airport
- Flight from Tokyo to Dublin
- Taxes, charges and 23kg check-in bag per person
Itinerary
1Departure from Dublin to Tokyo+
Your journey begins with an overnight flight from Dublin to Tokyo. Upon arrival in Japan, you will be met and transferred to the port to board the Sapphire Princess for your 11-night voyage.
2Discovering the Castle Town of Toba+
Toba is a coastal town in the Mie Prefecture, famous for its history as a castle town for the Kuki family. It serves as a gateway to the Ise-Shima National Park and has long been a significant stop for those travelling the sea route to the Ise-jingu Shrine.
3Feudal History in Kochi+
Visit Kochi, home to a well-preserved 17th-century castle. This city on Shikoku island played a major role in the restoration of the Emperor's power. You can explore the subtropical landscapes and Hibiscus blooms of the nearby Muroto-Anan Quasi-National Park.
4Relaxation at Sea+
Take a day to enjoy the facilities on your Sapphire Princess cruise. Whether you want to visit the Lotus Spa, try the casino, or enjoy the gourmet dining options, there is plenty to keep you occupied while we sail towards Korea.
5South Korea's Bustling Busan+
Busan offers a mix of modern skyscrapers and ancient Buddhist temples. You can visit the serene Yongdusan Park or pay your respects at the United Nations Memorial Cemetery, which commemorates the troops from 16 nations who served during the Korean War.
6Peace and Culture in Nagasaki+
Nagasaki is a city of deep historical significance. You can visit the Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum or explore the hillside scenery that often draws comparisons to San Francisco. It is also the setting for the famous opera, Madame Butterfly.
7Volcanic Landscapes of Kagoshima+
Known for the active Sakura Jima volcano sitting just offshore, Kagoshima is a geothermal region filled with hot springs. It was once the stronghold of the Shimazu clan and is a key location in the history of the samurai.
8Ancient Hot Springs in Matsuyama+
Matsuyama is home to Dogo Onsen, the oldest hot spring in Japan. You can visit the 17th-century hilltop castle, which offers great views of the Seto Inland Sea, or sample the local Matsuyama tarts and dumplings.
9Subtropical Beauty in Miyazaki+
Enjoy the balmy breezes of Miyazaki, where you can find botanical gardens, the Peace Tower, and the Haniwa Gardens featuring 400 burial statues. The area is known for its warm weather and beautiful coastal scenery.
10The Gateway to Kyoto on your Japan night cruise+
Arrive in Kobe, a cosmopolitan port city and the birthplace of the famous Kobe beef. It serves as your gateway to Kyoto, the ancient imperial capital of Japan, where you can find the nation's spiritual and cultural heart.
11Cruising the Coast+
Enjoy a final day at sea as we sail back towards Tokyo. This is a great time to revisit your favourite restaurants on board or simply relax on one of the many balconies as you watch the Japanese coastline pass by.
12Return to Tokyo and Dublin+
After disembarking in Tokyo, you will be transferred to the airport for your return flight to Dublin. Pre and post-cruise nights in Tokyo can be organised upon request if you wish to extend your stay.
| Date | Acc. | Price | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|
| 05 Mar 2027 | Inside | €3,199 | Enquire Now |
| 05 Mar 2027 | Balcony | €3,929 | Enquire Now |
- Booking deposit: enquire at time of booking
- Prices are per person based on two sharing.
- Single Supplement applies.
- A non-refundable / non-transferable deposit is required at the time of booking.
- Balance due 16 weeks before departure.
- Optional insurance available (terms & conditions apply).
- Taxes, prices & itinerary subject to change.
- Booking terms & conditions apply.
- Travel Insurance is not included.
Ref: PR

