Is a cruise a good way to explore Asia?
In a word, yes, and Southeast Asia and Japan are particularly well-suited to exploration by ship. Here are three key reasons why:
- It's a matter of geography. Extensive coastlines, myriad islands and bustling port cities make the region ideal for cruising.
- You can experience multiple cultures in one seamless journey, travelling considerable distances without the hassle of catching trains and flights or repacking every couple of days.
- A cruise offers consistency and comfort between your ports of call; you’ll enjoy reliably high-quality accommodation and amenities that often make days at sea as pleasurable as those on shore.
That said, not every cruise is created equal. When investing in a bucket-list journey to Asia, you want to make sure you select a line with the regional expertise to make it worth your while. Without further ado, here are six reasons why Princess Cruises is a standout option for travellers looking for cultural immersion and relaxation in equal measure.
1. More choice than ever before
Princess Cruises has long been a leading line for sailing Asia, offering an exceptionally broad range of itineraries that allow passengers to pick precisely what suits them. These vary from a whirlwind week sailing Japan and South Korea to a 42-night grand adventure through Southeast Asia.
Beyond destinations such as Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam and Taiwan, some voyages venture even further, combining Asia with Australia, New Zealand, Hawaii or Alaska.
The selection of Japan cruises is particularly impressive, and that's set to be especially true in 2027. Princess Cruises will launch its most expansive Japan season yet, featuring 78 departures across 50 unique itineraries running from March to December.
2. Perfectly timed cruises
The specialists at Princess Cruises pride themselves on curating itineraries designed to showcase the best of the region, from must-see cities like Hong Kong and Singapore to scenic routes along the UNESCO-listed Ha Long Bay or Suruga Bay, past Mount Fuji.
But crucially, Princess Cruises also runs perfectly timed sailings that allow guests to experience seasonal spectacles, most notably in Japan.
Gus Antorcha, president of Princess Cruises, explained: “Our story in Japan has deepened over time and experience and in 2027, we return promising unforgettable experiences, including the renowned cherry blossoms, seven spectacular festivals and journeys that immerse you in the awe and wonder of this destination.”
The dozens of itineraries dedicated to cherry blossom season mean passengers will be able to participate in the ancient practice of hanami (flower viewing), while sailings aligned with autumnal foliage will allow guests to experience momijigari (leaf hunting).
The itineraries designed to coincide with festivals also often feature late-night departures from port, so guests can fully immerse themselves in the celebrations. Some of the most remarkable ones to witness include the Kumano Fireworks Festival, the Kochi Yosakoi Dance Festival and the Akita Kantō Festival. At the latter, you'll see performers balancing towering bamboo poles with candlelit lanterns.
3. Cultural discovery on board
In Japan and across Southeast Asia, Princess Cruises deploys two well-appointed sister ships: Diamond Princess and Sapphire Princess. Aboard these Japanese-built vessels, you’ll have plenty of opportunities for cultural exploration.
On an itinerary sailing Japan, for example, your journey begins with a Kagami Wari ceremony, during which the captain of your ship will break open a cask of sake to welcome you aboard. You’ll be invited to sample the rice wine inside and raise a toast to bless the voyage ahead.
You’ll also have a chance to attend seminars, led by expert lecturers from Japanese universities, and join activities such as origami, gift wrapping, Bon Odori dancing, Japanese language classes and traditional tea-making ceremonies.
There’s no shortage of entertainment either, including traditional Japanese storytelling known as rakugo, which is akin to a comic one-person play. Karaoke, which first emerged in Kobe in the 1970s, is another way to gain insight into a popular national pastime. Or for those who prefer a more laid-back approach, a Japanese film under the stars is a pretty magical way to pass an evening.
4. Wellness steeped in tradition
Part of what makes Princess Cruises so appealing is the balance it strikes. There is ample time on shore for exploration, but equally, there are interludes at sea during which you can relax and enjoy a ship that feels like a luxury destination in and of itself.
Diamond Princess has outstanding wellness facilities, from the award-winning Lotus Spa to the adults-only Sanctuary, where you can opt for al fresco massages.
But most striking is the Izumi Japanese Bath, exclusive to this ship. This spa-like space is modelled after traditional Japanese onsen – the bathhouses built around the country’s geothermal hot springs. For over a thousand years, they have been prized as sources of serenity and rejuvenation.
Today, guests aboard Diamond Princess can enjoy the largest Japanese baths at sea, with indoor and outdoor facilities, saunas and hot tubs, set against a backdrop of ocean views.
5. Regional cuisine to savour
Aboard your Princess Cruises ship, you’ll be able to savour the culinary treasures of the region through which you’re sailing.
Most notably, the speciality restaurant Makoto Ocean debuted aboard Diamond Princess and Sapphire Princess in the autumn of 2025, with a focus on Edomae-style sushi. This was originally developed in 1820s Tokyo, and blends vinegared rice with fresh, locally sourced seafood.
Sushi Master Makoto Okuwa, who has over 25 years of experience and restaurants in cities such as Miami, Madrid and São Paulo, reimagined this centuries-old culinary tradition with modern flair. The menu presents dishes such as truffle salmon, snow crab temaki and toro tartare. These are expertly paired with craft cocktails such as the Japanese-inspired Genmai Negroni and Kodai No Hana, featuring yuzu juice and Doburoku, an ancient style of sake.
“It’s a true honour to bring Makoto Ocean to Diamond Princess and Sapphire Princess as they sail through the waters of my homeland and beyond,” said Chef Makoto Okuwa. “Sharing the spirit, tradition and flavours of Japan with Princess guests is a deeply personal and meaningful opportunity for me.”
Beyond Makoto Ocean, you’ll find specialities from across Japan, all made with fresh, local ingredients, in a generous range of dining and drinking venues. On select sailings, this includes a ramen bar pop-up in the buffet-style restaurant, as well as chances to try shōchū and fine Japanese whiskies. The ‘Tea of the Day’ programme, meanwhile, offers a simple way to explore different regional styles.
6. Authentic exploration on shore
One of the best things about sailing with Princess Cruises is that it provides enough time in port for you to explore the destinations you're visiting at your own pace. That means ample opportunities to tick off bucket-list sights – think UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the Singapore Botanic Gardens or Hiroshima Peace Memorial – without feeling rushed. In fact, you may even have time for spontaneous discoveries, which are often the most memorable.
To help you make the most of every stop, Princess Cruises also offers a broad range of optional shore excursions. You might glide through Hong Kong’s bustling streets by vintage tram, soak in hot springs surrounded by Taiwan’s verdant landscapes, or take a historical tour of Ho Chi Minh City.
And for those keen to delve deeper, Princess Cruises also operates cruisetours across Japan, pairing your voyage with guided land stays. That extra time means more chances to visit cultural treasures such as Kyoto’s Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Nijō Castle, or Tokyo’s Meiji Shrine and Ueno Park – experiences that reveal the country’s endlessly fascinating cultural heritage and natural beauty.
To explore itineraries and find out more about Diamond Princess and Sapphire Princess, visit the Princess Cruises website.
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