Japanese Cruising

There are so many people for whom a trip to Japan sits right at the top of their travel list. And having travelled to Japan numerous times over the last forty years, I can say that desire is very well justified.

I first visited Japan in 1983—which officially makes me old. I had just left university with a one‑way ticket to London. I made it as far as Hong Kong, where I met a very handsome and persuasive Frenchman who announced he was heading to Tokyo to find a job. And what does any naïve 20‑year‑old Australian do? Follow him to Tokyo, of course.

Naturally, the relationship lasted all of five minutes, and I soon found myself alone in Tokyo looking for work. I found a place to stay in a shared house in Setagaya‑Ōhara, not far from Shinjuku, and within a day I’d landed a job teaching English to businessmen at an evening school around the corner. The Dutch girl I shared a room with worked as a hostess in the bar next door. We spent a lovely few months exploring Tokyo and beyond, and—as travellers tend to do—we eventually went our separate ways. I headed back to Hong Kong for another job, and then on to Africa, where I met my husband just a few months later.

A lot has changed in Japan since that first visit forty years ago. It was awe‑inspiring then, and it still is today—that part has never changed. I’ve returned many times since, sometimes with three children in tow, and more recently as a presenter on cruise ships. I’ve travelled by road and by rail, I’ve walked, I’ve driven, and every time I come back to Japan, I discover something new.

So it’s wonderful to hear that you’re considering a trip to Japan. Here’s a little information to help get you started.

I’m going to begin with a bit of background about Japan—the kind of introduction I give when guests are onboard the cruise ships. Then I’ll briefly run through each of the most common cruise ports and share some helpful background about them. This won’t replace your own planning, of course. If you’re reading this, I’m assuming you’re already the sort of traveller who enjoys doing your own research. And let’s be honest: these days, if you’re going to travel well, you need to be able to do that.

Along the way, I’ll also share some general travel tips to help you plan the best possible cruise through Japan.

🇯🇵 A Little Background to Japan

Japan is a country where ancient tradition and cutting‑edge modernity sit side by side, often in the same street. It’s a nation shaped by geography, history, and a deep cultural commitment to harmony, respect, and precision — qualities that travellers feel the moment they arrive.

🗾 Geography and First Impressions

Japan is made up of four main islands — Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu, and Shikoku — along with thousands of smaller ones. The landscape is dramatic: mountains, forests, hot springs, and coastlines that seem to change character every few kilometres. More than 70% of the country is mountainous, which means cities are dense, efficient, and beautifully organised.

For travellers, this geography creates a wonderful contrast: neon skylines one day, quiet temples and steaming onsens the next.

🏯 A Brief Historical Snapshot

Japan’s history stretches back thousands of years, but a few key eras help shape what visitors see today:

• The Edo Period (1603–1868) — A time of peace, isolation, and strict social order. Many of the traditions we associate with Japan — tea ceremony, kabuki, woodblock prints — flourished here. Cities like Kanazawa and Kyoto still carry this atmosphere.

• The Meiji Restoration (1868–1912) — Japan opened to the world, modernised rapidly, and blended Western ideas with Japanese identity.

• Post‑war Japan — A period of extraordinary rebuilding and innovation, leading to the Japan we know today: technologically advanced, culturally rich, and globally influential.

Understanding these eras helps travellers appreciate why Japan feels both ancient and futuristic at the same time.

🌸 Traveller Tips for Japan

Top Practical Tips

• Google Maps works brilliantly for trains and walking.

• Learn a few simple phrases — even “arigatou” goes a long way.

• Public behaviour is quiet — keep voices low on transport.

• Always carry your rubbish — bins are rare.

• Expect incredible food — even convenience stores are impressive.

• Cash is still useful, especially in rural areas.

These small things make a big difference to how smoothly your days unfold.

🧭 Culture and Everyday Etiquette

Japan is one of the easiest countries to travel in — but also one of the most structured. A few cultural principles shape daily life:

• Respect — Bowing, quiet voices, orderly queues.

• Cleanliness — You’ll notice spotless streets and public spaces. Japan is spotless, but public bins are rare. Carry a small bag for your rubbish. Hand sanitiser and tissues are useful — many bathrooms have no paper towels.

• Efficiency — Trains run on time, systems work, and people take pride in doing things properly.

• Harmony (wa) — The idea that the group matters as much as the individual. Quiet voices on public transport — this is one of the biggest cultural differences.

• No eating on local trains (Shinkansen is fine).

• Queueing is sacred — follow the lines on the platform.

• Shoes off in traditional restaurants, temples, and some homes.

Travellers who understand these values find Japan even more rewarding.

🌸 Seasons and Timing

Japan changes dramatically with the seasons:

• Spring — Cherry blossoms, mild weather, huge crowds.

• Summer — Festivals, fireworks, humidity, and lush landscapes.

• Autumn — Brilliant red and gold leaves, comfortable temperatures.

• Winter — Snowy mountains, hot springs, and crisp clear days.

Each season offers something different, and your experience can vary widely depending on when you visit.

🧭 Navigation & Getting Around

• Google Maps is your best friend — it works beautifully for trains, buses, and walking.

• Trains run on time — if a train is due at 10:03, it leaves at 10:03.

• Stations can be large — allow extra time for transfers in Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto.

• Taxis are safe and reliable — but expensive. Doors open automatically; don’t touch them.

• Japan’s transport system is one of the best in the world. Whether you’re on a bullet train, a local bus, or a ferry between islands, you’ll find it punctual, clean, safe and easy to navigate For cruise travellers, this means you can confidently explore ports independently if you wish — something many guests love once they realise how simple it is.

💴 Money & Payments

• Japan is modern, but cash is still useful, especially in rural areas.

• ATMs that accept foreign cards are found in 7‑Eleven, FamilyMart, and post offices.

• Most vending machines take IC cards (Suica, Pasmo), which you can buy at stations.

🍜 Food & Eating

• Convenience stores (konbini) are shockingly good — fresh, cheap, reliable.

• Try regional specialties in each port — Japan’s food culture is deeply local.

• Don’t tip — it’s not expected and can cause confusion.

📶 Connectivity

• Free Wi‑Fi is common but inconsistent.

• A portable Wi‑Fi device or eSIM makes life easier.

🧳 Packing

• Comfortable walking shoes are essential — you’ll walk more than you expect.

• Layers are key — weather changes quickly, especially in spring and autumn.

• Bring a small umbrella — Japan sells beautiful ones if you forget/

  
  

🚢 How to Plan a Japan Cruise

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1. Choose the Right Season

• Spring (Mar–Apr) — cherry blossoms, crowds, mild weather.

• Summer (Jun–Aug) — festivals, humidity, lush landscapes.

• Autumn (Oct–Nov) — red leaves, comfortable temperatures.

• Winter (Dec–Feb) — snow, hot springs, crisp clear days.

2. Understand Port Distances

Some ports are right in town (Nagasaki, Hakodate).

Others require travel (Kobe → Kyoto, Yokohama → Tokyo).

This affects how much you can realistically see.

3. Decide: Ship Tour or Independent?

Ship tours are best for:

• long distances (Kyoto, Mt Fuji)

• mobility concerns

• peace of mind

Independent travel is ideal for:

• confident travellers

• short distances

• ports with easy transport (Nagasaki, Aomori, Hakodate)

  
  

4. Prioritise Experiences

Japan is rich and layered — you can’t see everything.

Choose one theme per port:

• history

• food

• nature

• temples

• shopping

• scenic viewpoints

  
  

5. Build in Rest

Japan is stimulating.

Plan one “gentle” day every few ports — a garden, a market, a slow wander.

6. Learn a Few Phrases

Even simple Japanese is appreciated:

• Arigatou — thank you

• Sumimasen — excuse me / sorry

• Konnichiwa — hello

• Eki wa doko desu ka? — where is the station?

  
  

7. Expect the Unexpected

Japan rewards curiosity — the best moments often happen when you wander down a side street, try a snack you can’t identify, or follow the sound of a festival drum.

🇯🇵 Cruise Ports of Japan

Japan has dozens of ports, but only a core group appear regularly on cruise itineraries. These are the ports where ships dock most often, where infrastructure is strong, and where travellers can easily explore independently or on organised tours.

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🏙️ Yokohama (Tokyo)

The gateway to Japan’s capital

Most international cruises begin or end in Yokohama, even though the destination is Tokyo. The port is modern, efficient, and well‑connected.

What to expect

• Clean, organised terminal

• Easy access to trains

• 45–60 minutes into central Tokyo

Highlights

• Shibuya Crossing

• Asakusa & Senso‑ji Temple

• Meiji Shrine

• Ginza shopping

• Tokyo Skytree

Traveller tip

Tokyo is huge. Choose one area and explore deeply rather than trying to see everything in a day.

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🏯 Kobe (for Kyoto, Osaka & Nara)

One of Japan’s most important cruise ports

Kobe is a lovely city in its own right, but most travellers use it as a gateway to Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara.

What to expect

• Very easy port to navigate

• Excellent train connections

• Friendly, relaxed city

Highlights

• Kyoto’s temples (Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizu‑dera)

• Nara’s deer park and Todaiji Temple

• Osaka Castle and Dotonbori

Traveller tip

Kyoto is 60–90 minutes away. If your time is short, stay in Kobe or Osaka.

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🗻 Shimizu (for Mt Fuji)

One of the most beautiful ports in Japan

On a clear day, Mt Fuji rises dramatically above the harbour — a breathtaking sight.

What to expect

• Small, easy port

• Shuttle buses often provided

• Great for independent travellers

Highlights

• Mt Fuji 5th Station

• Miho no Matsubara pine grove

• Nihondaira Plateau

• Shizuoka tea plantations

Traveller tip

Fuji is shy. If the mountain is visible when you dock, take your photos immediately.

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🕊️ Hiroshima

A city of remembrance, resilience, and beauty

Hiroshima is one of the most moving stops on any Japan cruise.

What to expect

• Efficient port

• Easy tram system

• Friendly, welcoming locals

Highlights

• Peace Park & Museum

• Atomic Bomb Dome

• Miyajima Island (Itsukushima Shrine)

Traveller tip

If you only do one thing: visit Miyajima. It’s unforgettable.

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🌋 Kagoshima

Volcano views and samurai history

Kagoshima sits in the shadow of Sakurajima, one of Japan’s most active volcanoes.

What to expect

• Scenic harbour

• Good transport

• Relaxed southern atmosphere

Highlights

• Sakurajima ferry

• Sengan‑en Garden

• Samurai houses in Chiran

Traveller tip

Carry a light scarf or hat — volcanic ash sometimes drifts across the city.

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🧭 Nagasaki

History, culture, and one of Japan’s most beautiful harbours

Nagasaki has a fascinating blend of Japanese and European influences.

What to expect

• Ships dock right in town

• Easy walking access

• Compact and scenic

Highlights

• Peace Park & Museum

• Dejima

• Glover Garden

• Mt Inasa viewpoint

Traveller tip

The ropeway to Mt Inasa offers one of the best night views in Japan.

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🐉 Okinawa (Naha)

Tropical Japan — beaches, history, and island culture

Okinawa feels completely different from mainland Japan.

What to expect

• Warm, tropical climate

• American and Japanese cultural mix

• Great for beach lovers

Highlights

• Shuri Castle

• Kokusai Street

• Churaumi Aquarium

• Cape Manzamo

Traveller tip

Public transport is limited — taxis or tours are easiest.

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🐟 Aomori

Gateway to northern Japan’s culture and landscapes

Aomori is known for apples, festivals, and rugged scenery.

What to expect

• Very friendly locals

• Easy walk into town

• Great museums

Highlights

• Nebuta Museum

• Hirosaki Castle (seasonal)

• Lake Towada

Traveller tip

Try the apple ice cream — it’s a local specialty.

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🦑 Hakodate (Hokkaido)

Seafood, night views, and a touch of old Japan

Hakodate is one of the most charming ports in Japan.

What to expect

• Walkable city

• Famous morning market

• Excellent public transport

Highlights

• Mt Hakodate ropeway

• Red Brick Warehouse district

• Goryokaku Fort

Traveller tip

The night view from Mt Hakodate is considered one of the best in the world.

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❄️ Otaru (for Sapporo)

Canals, glassware, and access to Hokkaido’s capital

Otaru is a pretty port town with a European feel.

What to expect

• Easy stroll from port

• Lovely canal area

• Train to Sapporo (30–40 mins)

Highlights

• Otaru Canal

• Music Box Museum

• Sapporo Beer Museum

Traveller tip

Otaru’s bakeries and sweet shops are legendary — don’t miss them.

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🏮 Kanazawa

One of Japan’s most elegant cultural cities

Kanazawa is often compared to Kyoto but with fewer crowds.

What to expect

• Modern cruise terminal

• Short shuttle into town

• Rich cultural heritage

Highlights

• Kenroku‑en Garden

• Samurai district

• Geisha district (Higashi Chaya)

Traveller tip

Kenroku‑en is spectacular in every season — allow time to wander.

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🌊 Kochi

Laid‑back port with castles, markets, and river scenery

Kochi is a quieter stop, perfect for travellers who enjoy a slower pace.

What to expect

• Friendly, relaxed city

• Shuttle buses provided

• Easy to explore

Highlights

• Kochi Castle

• Sunday Market (if timing fits)

• Katsurahama Beach

Traveller tip

Try katsuo tataki — seared bonito, the local specialty.

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🏯 Himeji

Home to Japan’s most famous castle

Some itineraries stop at Himeji, giving direct access to its iconic castle.

What to expect

• Small port

• Easy train ride

• Compact city centre

Highlights

• Himeji Castle

• Koko‑en Garden

Traveller tip

Arrive early — the castle gets busy.

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🧘 Beppu

Hot springs, steam vents, and volcanic landscapes

Beppu is Japan’s onsen capital.

What to expect

• Unique geothermal scenery

• Lots of tours

• Relaxed atmosphere

Highlights

• The “Hells” of Beppu

• Sand baths

• Onsen experiences

Traveller tip

If you’re shy about bathing, the sand baths are a great alternative.

Heres a quick summary of the ports

 PORT            REGION      KNOWN FOR                         DISTANCE TO SITES        BEST FOR

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Yokohama    Kanto       Gateway to Tokyo                  45–60 mins -Tokyo      Big-city

Kobe            Kansai      Access to Kyoto/Osaka/Nara     60–90 mins -Kyoto      Culture

Shimizu        Shizuoka    Mt Fuji views                     45–90 mins               Nature & scenery

Hiroshima     Chugoku     Peace Park, Miyajima            30–60 mins               History reflection

Kagoshima    Kyushu     Sakurajima volcano                15–30 mins               Gardens

Nagasaki      Kyushu      History, European influence       Walkable                 Culture & views

Okinawa (Naha)  Okinawa     Tropical Japan                    20–60 mins               Beaches & history

Aomori          Tohoku      Festivals

Japan is one of those rare destinations that lingers with you long after the ship has moved on to its next port. Whether it’s the quiet beauty of a Shinto shrine, the energy of a neon‑lit street, the taste of something you can’t quite name but absolutely loved, or the simple kindness of a stranger helping you find your way — Japan has a way of settling into your memory.

A cruise is one of the most effortless and rewarding ways to experience this remarkable country. Each port reveals a different face of Japan: ancient temples, volcanic landscapes, peaceful gardens, bustling markets, and cities that feel like they belong in the future. And with Japan’s extraordinary transport system, even independent travellers can explore with confidence.

After forty years of travelling through Japan — by train, by car, on foot, with children, alone, and now as a cruise presenter — I can say that no matter how many times you visit, Japan always has something new to show you. It is a country that rewards curiosity, welcomes respect, and offers moments of beauty in the most unexpected places.

If Japan is on your list, move it to the top. And if you’re already booked on a cruise, you’re in for an unforgettable journey. I hope the stories, tips, and port guides here help you step ashore feeling prepared, confident, and excited for whatever discoveries await you.

Travel well, travel gently, and let Japan surprise you — it always does.