I am going to Japan in June ‘25 on Norwegian Cruise Line leaving from the port in Tokyo. I have questions if anyone can answer:
What is it like time wise getting off and back on the ship during port days? Is there a customs check process? I like to shop!
I will be staying near the Shinagawa Station in a hotel booked through the cruise line for three nights prior to ship departure. Has anyone done this? Any suggestions/tips?
I am flying into Japan with a flight book through the cruise line as well. Has anyone else done this?
I decided for my first trip to have the hotel and flight booked w NCL because I’m traveling solo and don’t want the added stress of figuring out travel, etc. the first time.
The ports are Mt Fuji, Nagoya, Kochi, Kyoto/Kobe, Beppu, Matsuyama, Sasebo and Jeju SK ending in Seoul SK.
I would be most grateful for any information from people that have cruised Japan or have just been to any of the ports. I will be 59 when I go and do not have limited mobility and agin going solo!
Posted by
Lynnwood, Washington
8984 posts
Hi Fergus! I am headed to Japan for my first trip at the end of March and will be taking a 7 day land tour followed by a 10 day cruise with Princess Cruise lines. I will probably be able to help more after that.
I think you will have a great time.
Posted by
8478 posts
We did a wonderful Celebrity cruise from Tokyo ending in Hong Kong in 2015. It was great, we visited only one other port that you will visit, Kobe. From Kobe, you can visit Kyoto. Kyoto is the gem of Japan. You need at least three days there, but you will likely only have one.
We flew into Tokyo 8 days before our cruise started and did Nikko, north of Tokyo, the usual sites in Tokyo, including the Imperial Palace and a couple of neighborhoods with ancient buildings.
Also, we went to Kamakura to see the giant sleeping Buddha.
The took the high speed train to Kyoto and did three days there also visiting Nara.
Japan is fantastic with very nice, helpful and very friendly people. Also, everyone dresses up, not down. The country is very, very clean, no-one throws trash on the streets, etc.
Also, the food is excellent.
We usually book private tours at the ports and we found some, but I don't remember any names. Compare what NCL offers with the private tours.
My Daughter served with the US Army in Korea and loved the country.
Posted by
Ontario, Canada
5704 posts
In addition to the advice you get here, I'd highly recommend exploring the Cruise Critic website. Here's a link to the NCL forum: https://boards.cruisecritic.com/forum/64-norwegian-cruise-line/
And here's one for the Asia Ports of Call forum: https://boards.cruisecritic.com/forum/43-asia/
Posted by
Austin, TX
2409 posts
Hello Fergus
I am considering sailing Japan on NCL sometime after you. Hoping that you might file a Trip Report when you return.
I have sailed with NCL Nine times.
There are any number of NCL facebook pages and there will be one for your ship and maybe even your particular cruise. NCL Facebook pages would be a very good place to get answers to your questions. You will be able to communicate with guests who have been to Japan with NCL.
Posted by
Greeley, co, usa
2635 posts
You would only have customs at the end of the cruise in Korea.
Check out some Japan vlogs by Youtuber Tips for travellers. ( 2 ells - British spelling )
Posted by
Austin, TX
2409 posts
Carol Now Retired
I am going to look very forward to your trip reports.
And I wish you a wonderful trip.
Posted by
Austin, TX
2409 posts
Hello Fergus
One more thing.
I always choose to book my own flights rather than go through NCL although it is more expensive,
I have read many discussions from guests who use NCL to book flights and it is a mixed bag. One group is extremely happy with what they get. Another group is somewhat happy but then there is a group that is very unhappy with the flights that NCL booked for them. For the last group, it is a nightmarish situation.
You will probably not get your air information until maybe 30 days before leaving. I will be interested in what you get. As I have previously said, I am looking forward to your trip report.