A Cruise To Japan: What To Expect

Embarking on a cruise to Japan is like stepping into an enchanted world. It is a perfect blend of tradition and modernity, a journey that promises to amaze, inspire, and delight. If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing the cherry blossoms in full bloom or witnessing the majesty of Mount Fuji, a cruise to or around Japan is your golden ticket.

We recently cruised to Japan for the first time and loved it. In this post, we’ll give you a sneak peek of what to expect when you cruise to Japan, including the cruise itself, the cities you may explore, the nature you will appreciate, and the food you might savor.

What To Expect On A Cruise To Japan

As far as the cruise itself goes, a cruise to Japan is much like any other. There are a few differences, though.

If you are cruising around Japan rather than to it, expect a cruise of seven to twelve days or so, with several port days. The more days of your cruise around Japan, the more sea days you are likely to have, as many as five with a twelve-day cruise.

Gambling isn’t allowed in Japanese waters, so be prepared for your ship’s casino to be closed not only when you’re in port, but also the evenings of port days as well. On sea days, the casino may be open, depending on how close to shore the ship is.

If you are cruising to Japan, you will likely have a series of sea days as you cross the Pacific Ocean on your journey. On our recent cruise to Japan from Vancouver, we had nine sea days on a fourteen-day cruise. The water may be rough at times, so be prepared in case of seasickness.

At your first port in Japan, you will need to go to a designated place onboard where Japanese Customs inspectors are set up to meet with you one by one. Bring your original passport. It is a quick formality and you will receive a stamp on your passport.

Savor The Cuisine

Of course, no trip to Japan is complete without tasting its cuisine, which is considered one of the best in the world. Japanese food is not just sushi and sake, but a rich and varied palette of flavors, textures, and presentations.

Unleash your inner foodie and indulge in the exquisite culinary art that Japan is renowned for. Picture yourself savoring a fresh, delicate sushi roll, prepared by a master sushi chef. Or perhaps warming your soul with a comforting bowl of ramen, its rich, savory broth leaving an unforgettable taste. And let’s not forget the famous fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth Japanese cheesecake.

The flavors of Japan are as diverse as they are delicious. You can try local specialties such as ramen (Japanese noodle soup), udon (thick and chewy noodles), soba (buckwheat noodles), tempura (lightly battered fried food), or okonomiyaki (compare Osaka’s savory pancake dish with Hiroshima-style), or savor delicacies such as wagyu beef or fugu (blowfish). You can also attend food festivals or go on a food tour to discover the diversity and quality of Japanese food.

We were surprised and amused to find fried chicken tenders in Japan, which the locals jokingly refer to as JFC, or Japanese fried chicken.

Don’t miss the world of Japanese beverages that are waiting to quench your thirst. Have you ever sipped on authentic, high-quality sake? Brewed from fermented rice, this traditional Japanese drink is a unique experience of its own. Or maybe you’d prefer to try matcha, a finely ground powder of specially grown and processed green tea leaves, which is at the heart of Japanese tea ceremonies. There is even matcha beer and gelato, both of which we tried while in Tokyo.

And for those who prefer something non-alcoholic, Japan’s array of quirky and refreshing soft drinks won’t let you down. Whether it’s a fizzy Ramune, a uniquely flavored Fanta, or a comforting mug of hot Genmaicha tea, there’s a drink to suit every mood.

Immerse Yourself In The Culture

Now, let’s dive into the heart of Japanese culture, its ancient traditions and rituals.

There are two primary religions in Japan, Shinto and Buddhism, each with its own sacred places. Shintos have shrines, and Buddhists have temples.

One symbol you will see often in Japan is the Torii gate, the entrance to a Shinto shrine. The custom is to bow before passing through the torii gate.

When you reach the shrine, approach reverently with a coin in hand, usually a 5-yen or 50-yen piece with a hole in the center. Tradition says the gods can see through the hole in the coin. Bow twice, clap twice to get the gods’ attention, then clasp your hands together to make your wish. Be quick about it to be considerate to other visitors, then bow once before leaving.

How about participating in a traditional tea ceremony? One of the quintessential Japanese experiences is attending a traditional tea ceremony, also known as chanoyu. This centuries-old art form is a ritualistic way of serving and drinking green tea in a tranquil setting. You’ll be fascinated by how intricate and detailed the ceremony is, from the way the tea is prepared to the way it is served and enjoyed. You can attend a tea ceremony in various places throughout Japan, including Kyoto, Tokyo, and Kamakura. Some tea ceremony experiences even include wearing a kimono and learning how to make your own tea.

Or perhaps you’re intrigued by the mesmerizing art of ikebana, the ancient Japanese tradition of flower arrangement? Ikebana is more than just arranging flowers in a vase. It is about understanding the art of space, balance, and harmony. With ikebana, you’ll learn to appreciate the beauty of nature and see how to showcase it through intricate and inspiring arrangements.

If you get the chance to witness one of the exhilarating Kabuki performances, the highly stylized classical Japanese dance-drama, take it. Kabuki is a spectacle of vibrant costumes, dramatic makeup, and riveting storytelling.

We were lucky enough to have an excursion to Neputa Village in Hirosaki, where we soaked in the culture of the Tsugaru clan. We saw huge festival floats with amazing artwork, listened to a musician playing on a shamisen, watched an artisan create beautiful lacquerware, and experienced the booming sound of taiko drums.

If you can, take the opportunity to witness sumo wrestling. Watching these strong, athletic wrestlers battle it out in the ring is truly an amazing sight. Observe the rituals they perform before each match and learn more about this traditional sport. Not only are the matches incredibly intense, but they also provide an insight into Japanese culture that you can’t get anywhere else.

After a long day of sightseeing, you could relax in an onsen. Japanese hot springs, or onsens, are not only a way to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of the city, but they are also known for their therapeutic and healing properties. Onsens come in various types, including indoor, outdoor, and mixed-gender or gender-segregated. Some also offer stunning views of nature, such as Mount Fuji or the Japanese Alps. Be aware that onsens involve naked bathing in public.

These activities offer an immersive cultural experience, enriching your voyage with meaningful moments.

Shop Till You Drop

Japan is a shopping paradise with a wide range of products and experiences that cater to all tastes and budgets. You can shop in department stores such as Isetan or Mitsukoshi, or specialty shops such as manga, anime, or kimono stores. From traditional crafts such as pottery, textiles, or lacquerware, to modern gadgets such as cameras, phones, or robots, Japan offers a unique shopping experience that combines aesthetics, quality, and innovation.

Ride The Bullet Train

If you’re headed out of the city, hop on the bullet train, or Shinkansen, and get ready for a ride unlike any other. Japan’s high-speed rail network is world-renowned for its speed, punctuality, and comfort. The Shinkansen trains travel at speeds of up to 200 mph between Tokyo and Aomori, meaning you can reach your destination in a fraction of the time it would take by car or traditional train.

We took the bullet train from Aomori back to Tokyo. Our bus trip to Aomori was two and a half hours, while our return to Tokyo via bullet train was only thirty minutes. Amazing how quickly the landscape whizzed past us!

But speed isn’t the only perk of this incredible mode of transportation. With spacious seats, Wi-Fi, and delicious onboard meals, you will feel like royalty as you fly through the Japanese countryside.

Tips For Visiting Japan

Visiting Japan can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but there are a few things to keep in mind to make your trip smoother and more enjoyable. Here are some tips to help you better fit into the local culture:

Respect Local Customs and Etiquette: Japan has a strong cultural etiquette that visitors should be aware of. Bowing is a common form of greeting, and it’s important to be mindful of personal space and noise levels in public areas.

Learn Basic Phrases: While many people in Japan speak some English, it’s helpful to learn a few basic Japanese phrases. Polite greetings such as “thank you” (arigatou gozaimasu) and “excuse me” (sumimasen) go a long way.

Cash is King: While credit cards are widely accepted in major cities, it’s a good idea to carry cash, especially in more rural areas and smaller establishments. Japan is still largely a cash-based society.

Respect Public Spaces: Keep in mind that eating, drinking, or smoking while walking in public is generally considered impolite. Find designated areas or cafes for such activities.

Separate Trash: Japan has a strict waste separation system. Be sure to separate your trash into categories like burnable, non-burnable, and recyclable items. Your accommodation can guide you on proper disposal.

Follow Onsen Etiquette: If you’re visiting an onsen (hot spring bath), thoroughly wash and rinse your body before entering the communal bath. Also, remember to tie up long hair and cover tattoos, as some onsen facilities might have restrictions.

Line Up Politely: Japan is known for its orderly lines. Whether you’re waiting for a train or at a restaurant, be patient and wait your turn.

Observe Train Etiquette: Trains are a significant mode of transportation in Japan. Let passengers exit before boarding, keep your phone on silent mode, and avoid talking loudly.

Use Chopsticks Respectfully: When using chopsticks, avoid sticking them upright in a bowl of rice (as this resembles a funeral ritual) and passing food directly from one set of chopsticks to another (as this resembles a funeral custom as well).

Carry Tissues: While public restrooms are generally clean, not all of them have toilet paper. Carrying a small pack of tissues or a microfiber cloth can come in handy.

Shoes Off Indoors: It’s customary to remove your shoes when entering someone’s home, some traditional accommodations (ryokan), and some restaurants. Look for designated areas to store your shoes. Also, you should wear socks.

Stay Connected: Renting a portable Wi-Fi device or purchasing a local SIM card can help you stay connected and navigate easily. Some providers such as Verizon have international plans for $10 a day.

Consider a Rail Pass: If you plan to travel across different cities, a Japan Rail Pass might be cost-effective for using the country’s extensive train network.

Stay Hydrated: Carry a reusable water bottle, as tap water is safe to drink in most places.

Be Prepared for Seasons: Japan experiences distinct seasons, so pack accordingly. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters can be chilly. If you visit higher altitudes, such as Mount Fuji, the temperatures will be much cooler.

Check Opening Hours: Some attractions and shops might have irregular opening hours, so it’s a good idea to double-check in advance.

Refrain From Pointing at People: Pointing at people or objects with your finger in Japan (or any country) can be seen as rude and disrespectful behavior. Instead of pointing with your finger, try using an open hand gesture towards the person or object you wish to indicate without making direct contact with them/it. Also, it is important not to point your feet at anyone while sitting down as this too can be seen as disrespectful behavior in Japan.

Avoid Blowing Your Nose in Public: Blowing your nose in public can be seen as rude behavior—even if you are suffering from a cold or allergies. If you need to blow your nose, make sure you do so discreetly and away from other people so as not to offend anyone around you.

Practical Insights for a Seamless Journey: Pack strategically with layers, whether you’re chasing cherry blossoms or soaking in the vibrant fall hues. And comfortable walking shoes? An absolute must for the urban adventures that await you.

Plan Excursions In Advance: That’s the way to go. Securing your spot at the must-see attractions is your ticket to a seamless experience.

Remember, a nod or a friendly “Konichiwa” (hello) goes a long way in forging connections with the gracious locals.

Frequently Asked Questions