Princess Cruises is to run its longest season of sailings from Japan.
The full programme from May 2021 to April 2022 will be available to book from tomorrow (Thursday).
The 2,670-passenger Diamond Princess will depart from Tokyo and Kobe on 48 cruises visiting 44 destinations in four countries.
Cruises range in duration from four to 19 nights, including five new ports of call – Ube, Hitachinaka (for Nikko), Shimoneseki, Omaezaki and Jeju.
Almost 30 new ‘local connections’ shore excursions in 19 ports provide authentic experiences inlcuding food, drink, culture and history.
Pre- and post-cruise add-on tours of Kyoto and Tokyo are offered at an extra cost.
Diamond Princess is tailored for Japan cruising with authentic on board experiences including sushi dining, folkloric performances and origami classes.
The ship features a large indoor and outdoor Izumi Japanese bath.
Cruise-only prices lead in at £1,264 per person for a nine-night Kyushu Fall Foliage cruise from Tokyo on December 5, 2021.
The line’s UK and Europe vice president Tony Roberts said: “As well as a host of cruises offering authentic on board experiences, those looking to explore further and head off the beaten path can combine their sailing with a land holiday and fully immerse themselves in the captivating culture of this unique region.”