Japan Shore ExcursionsBack-to-Ship Guarantee

Japan Shore ExcursionsHighest Quality Tours

Japan Shore ExcursionsCustomized Group Tours

Japan Shore ExcursionsWorth-money Services

Japan Shore ExcursionsTravel Safe and Secure

About Japan Shore Excursions

About Japan Shore Excursions

Japan Shore Excursions delivers various tours for cruise ship passengers coming from all over the world to explore the mysterious land of Japan. With decades of experience as an expert tour operator, expect everything when enjoying our services. Choose from sightseeing tours visit highlighted attractions such as castles, shrines, museums… to cultural experiences including matcha tasting, Geisha entertaining, dolls making, and so on.

Enjoy a tour overlooking our website, pick your favorite shore trips, contact us, and ready for unforgettable experiences.

What Sets Japan Shore Excursions Apart From The Rest?

Top Scheduled Japan Shared Tours from Your Cruise Ship

Our shared Japan cruise excursions are designed for travelers who love good company and great value.
Invite your inner circle, or simply join one of our welcoming groups, to experience the best of Japan shore excursions.

Shared Tour

Otaru Shore Excursions

Otaru Highlights Half-day Tour

(9) $147 USD

  • Duration: 4 hours
  • Port: Otaru, Japan
  • Highlights: Mt. Tengu Observatory, Tanaka Sake Brewery, Otaru Canal, Sakaimachi-dori Shopping Street
  • Activity Level: Easy
  • Cruise: Norwegian Spirit
  • Tour Date: Aug 02 2025
  • Group Size: 16 pax

Shared Tour
(7) $174 USD

  • Duration: 5 hours
  • Port: Nagasaki, Japan
  • Highlights: Urakami Cathedral, Peace Memorial Park, Atomic Bomb Museum and Ground-zero (Hypocenter), Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown
  • Activity Level: Easy to Moderate
  • Cruise: Norwegian Spirit
  • Tour Date: Aug 06 2025
  • Group Size: 16 pax

Shared Tour

Hiroshima Shore Excursions

Hiroshima & Miyajima Highlights Tour

(3) $150$170 USD

  • Duration: 6 hours
  • Port: Hiroshima, Japan
  • Highlights: Itsukushima Shrine, Miyajima Town, Peace Memorial Park & Museum, Atomic Bomb Dome
  • Activity Level: Easy
  • Cruise: Celebrity Millennium, Diamond Princess, Norwegian Spirit
  • Tour Date: Aug 07 2025, Aug 29 2025, Sep 04 2025, Sep 29 2025, Oct 10 2025
  • Group Size: 14 - 16 pax

Shared Tour

Naha - Okinawa Shore Excursions

Okinawa Highlights Tour

(3) $167 USD

  • Duration: 6 hours
  • Port: Hakata - Fukuoka, Japan
  • Highlights: Himeyuri Monument & Peace Museum, Peace Memorial Park, Okinawa World & Gyokusendo Cave, Naha Kokusai Dori Shopping Street
  • Activity Level: Moderate
  • Cruise: Oceania Riviera
  • Tour Date: Oct 18 2025
  • Group Size: 16 pax

Shared Tour
(3) $160$183 USD

  • Duration: 6 hours
  • Port: Hakata - Fukuoka, Japan
  • Highlights: Tochoji Temple & Buddha-Hell-Paradise, Ohori Park, Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, Fukuoka Tower
  • Activity Level: Moderate
  • Cruise: HAL Westerdam, Norwegian Spirit, Celebrity Millennium
  • Tour Date: Sep 20 2025, Sep 27 2025, Oct 17 2025
  • Group Size: 12 - 16 pax

Shared Tour
(3) $165$178 USD

  • Duration: 8 hours
  • Port: Osaka/Kobe, Japan
  • Highlights: Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion), Gion District, Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine (Time Permitting)
  • Activity Level: Moderate
  • Cruise: Celebrity Millennium
  • Tour Date: Aug 20 2025, Sep 02 2025, Oct 01 2025, Oct 08 2025
  • Group Size: 14 pax

Shared Tour
(3) $166$184 USD

  • Duration: 6 hours
  • Port: Hakodate, Japan
  • Highlights: Goryokaku Park & Tower, Hakodate-Asaichi Market, Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse, Mt. Hakodate (Ropeway)
  • Activity Level: Moderate
  • Cruise: Celebrity Millennium, HAL Westerdam
  • Tour Date: Sep 08 2025, Oct 22 2025, Oct 26 2025
  • Group Size: 14 - 16 pax

Shared Tour

Osaka Shore Excursions

Osaka Highlights Tour

(3) $147$155 USD

  • Duration: 6 hours
  • Port: Osaka, Japan
  • Highlights: Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine, Dotonbori area, Osaka Castle 
  • Activity Level: Moderate
  • Cruise: Celebrity Millennium
  • Tour Date: Sep 01 2025, Oct 02 2025
  • Group Size: 14 - 16 pax

Shared Tour

Shimizu Shore Excursions

Hakone Owakudani & Lake Ashi Tour

(3) $178$205 USD

  • Duration: 6 hours
  • Port: Shimizu, Japan
  • Highlights: Lake Ashi cruising (Viking boat), Owakudani by rope-way, Owakudani Valley
  • Cruise: Diamond Princess, Norwegian Sprit
  • Tour Date: Sep 03 2025, Oct 03 2025
  • Group Size: Flexible

Shared Tour

Hiroshima Shore Excursions

Hiroshima Half-day Tour

(3) $159 USD

  • Duration: 4 hours
  • Port: Hiroshima, Japan
  • Highlights: Peace Memorial Park & Museum (Atomic Bomb Dome, Hypocenter, Children's Peace Monument, Cenotaph), Shukkeien
  • Activity Level: Easy
  • Cruise: Oceania Riviera
  • Tour Date: Oct 12 2025
  • Group Size: 16 pax

Shared Tour

Kyoto Shore Excursions

The Best of Kyoto & Arashiyama

(3) $175$285 USD

  • Duration: 7.5 - 8 hours
  • Port: Kobe/Osaka, Japan
  • Highlights: Arashiyama Area, Bamboo Forest, Togetsu-Kyo Bridge, Kinkakuji Temple (the Golden Pavillion), Fushimiinari-Taisha Shrine
  • Activity Level: Easy
  • Cruise: Oceania Riviera, HAL Westerdam, Norwegian Spirit, Norwegian Sun
  • Tour Date: Jul 29 2025, Sep 30 2025, Oct 10 2025, Oct 14 2025, Nov 06 2025
  • Group Size: 12 - 16 pax

(3) $150$168 USD

  • Duration: 5 hours
  • Port: Shimizu, Japan
  • Highlights: Kuno-zan Toshogu Shrine & Nihon-daira Rope-way (Mt. Fuji viewspot), Nihondaira Yume Terrace, Miho-no-Matsubara (Mt. Fuji viewspot)
  • Cruise: Celebrity Millennium, Norwegian Spirit
  • Tour Date: Jul 28 2025, Aug 31 2025, Sep 12 2024, Oct 04 2025
  • Group Size: Max 14 pax

Explore More Shared Excursions by Cruise Ship Itinerary

Our Japan shore excursions are specially crafted to align with the scheduled port stops of each cruise, offering an effortless way to explore ancient temples, stunning landscapes, and vibrant local life.

Why Choose To Travel in a Small Group with Our Shared Tours?

Discover the outstanding advantages designed for discerning cruise passengers who value quality, savings, and peace of mind

Last-Minute Japan Shore Excursions for Cruise Guests

Mt. Tengu Observatory on Otaru shore excursions

Otaru Highlights Half-day Tour
(4 Hours)

Departure Date: Aug 02, 2025

>>>  $147 USD

  • Cruise Line: Norwegian Spirit
  • Port of Call: Otaru Port
  • Highlights: Mt. Tengu Observatory, Tanaka Sake Brewery, Otaru Canal, Sakaimachi-dori Shopping Street
  • Activity Level: Easy
  • Only 4 Slots Available
Nagasaki tours from cruise port

Nagasaki History Highlights
(5 Hours)

Departure Date: Aug 06, 2025

 >>>  $174 USD

  • Cruise Line: Norwegian Spirit
  • Port of Call: Nagasaki Port
  • Highlights: Urakami Cathedral, Peace Memorial Park, Atomic Bomb Museum & Ground-zero (Hypocenter), Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown
  • Activity Level: Easy to Moderate
  • Only 6 Slots Available
Miyajima Island and Itsukushima Shrine

Hiroshima & Miyajima
(6 Hours)

Departure Date: Aug 07, 2025

 >>>  $168 USD

  • Cruise Line: Norwegian Spirit
  • Port of Call: Hiroshima Port
  • Highlights: Itsukushima Shrine, Miyajima Town, Peace Memorial Park & Museum, Atomic Bomb Dome
  • Activity Level: Easy
  • Only 6 Slots Available
Shore excursions from Kochi cruise port

Kochi Highlights Tour
(5 Hours)

Departure Date: Sep 03, 2025

$158 USD

  • Cruise Line: Celebrity Millennium
  • Port of Call: Kochi Port
  • Highlights: Harimaya-bashi Bridge, Kochi Castle, Hirome-Ichiba Open Market, Katsura Hama (Ryuzu-misaki Lookout)
  • Activity Level: Easy
  • Only 8 Slots Available
Hirosaki Park on Aomori shore excursions

Aomori Cultural Heritage Tour
(6 Hours)

Departure Date: Sep 09, 2025

$167 USD

  • Cruise Line: Celebrity Millennium
  • Port of Call: Aomori Port
  • Highlights: Hirosaki Park & Castle, Tsugaru-han Neputa Village, Aomori Prefecture Tourist Center ASPAM/Sannai Maruyama Historical Site
  • Activity Level: Easy
  • Only 8 Slots Available
Free Inquiry
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest on Kyoto shore tours

Kyoto Serenity Tour (Kyoto Heritage Tour)
(5 Hours)

Departure Date: Aug 20, 2025

$165 USD

  • Cruise Line: Celebrity Millennium
  • Port of Call: Osaka/Kobe Port
  • Highlights: Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion), Gion District, Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine (Time Permitting)
  • Activity Level: Moderate
  • Only 4 Slots Available
Free Inquiry
Meotoiwa on Toba cruise excursions

Ise Jingu & Pearl Island
(6 Hours)

Departure Date: Aug 26, 2025

$183 USD

  • Cruise Line: Diamond Princess
  • Port of Call: Toba Port
  • Highlights: Ise Jingu (Geku & Naiku), Futami Okitama Shrine and Meotoiwa, Mikimoto Pearl Island
  • Activity Level: Moderate
  • Only 6 Slots Available
Free Inquiry
Gotaisan Chikurin-ji Temple on Kochi shore excursions

Kochi Castle & Katsurahama
(6 Hours)

Departure Date: Aug 28, 2025

$183 USD

  • Cruise Line: Diamond Princess
  • Port of Call: Kochi Port
  • Highlights: Gotaisan Chikurin-ji Temple, Harimaya-bashi Bridge, Kochi Castle, Hirome-Ichiba Open Market, Katsura Hama
  • Activity Level: Easy
  • Only 8 Slots Available
Free Inquiry

Unique Japan Experiences on Shore Tours - Easy, Friendly & Worry-Free

Experience Best of Japan day tours

Easy Booking with Personal Support

∎ Get help from a real Japan travel expert every step of the way

∎ Simple, quick booking. No tech skills needed

∎ Fast and friendly answers to all your questions

Tailor made Japan Shore Excursions

Travel at Your Pace, Your Way

∎ Flexible itineraries with no rush or pressure

∎ Small groups: Make new friends and Share great moments

∎ See the real Japan: temples, gardens, food, and scenic spots

Back Cruise Ship with Stories About Japan Excursions

Peace of Mind, Every Moment

∎ Back-to-ship guarantee | Never worry about missing your cruise

∎ English-speaking guides who care about your comfort

∎ Trusted by thousands of cruise guests just like you

Traveling with a group of 14 or more? Let us craft a personalized shore excursion tailored to your group's pace, interests, and comfort with special group pricing available.

Tailor Your Trip

Discover Japan's Premier Cruise Ports

- Unforgettable Shore Excursions Await -

Discover the beauty and culture of Japan with our Japan Shore Excursions, featuring handpicked tours from cruise ports. Immerse yourself in stunning landscapes, iconic landmarks, and rich traditions with seamless port pick-ups and carefully crafted itineraries that make every moment ashore unforgettable.

Yokohama bay shore excursions

Yokohama

Modern skyline meets traditional charm in Japan's largest port city
Chinatown Harbor Views Museums
Mt. Fuji - A Sacred Site and Artistic Inspiration

Shimizu

Modern skyline meets traditional charm in Japan's largest port city

Mt.Fuji Tea Gardens Scenic Beauty
Kobe cherry blossom shore excursions

Kobe

Famous for premium beef and stunning cherry blossom gardens

Kobe Beef Cherry Blossom Gardens
Peace Memorial Park - Nagasaki shore excursions

Nagasaki

Historic port with peaceful memorials and cultural treasures

Peace Park Historic Sites Culture
Goryokaku Park on Hakodate shore tour

Hakodate

Northern charm with fresh seafood and panoramic mountain views

Mountain View Seafood Market
Fushimiinari-Taisha Shrine on Kyoto shore tour

Kyoto

Famous for its rich cultural heritage, stunning temples, and authentic traditional cuisine.

UNESCO Temple Tours Traditions

Japan Shore Excursions Feedbacks from Our Customers

Shore Excursions in Japan Review
Naha-Okinawa, Japan Shore Excursions
Sakaiminato Japan Tour from Cruise Port
Review Shore Excursions in Japan
TripAdvisor Excellence Award 2024 Tripadvisor Reviews

Mr. George Spier Group

Dear Sammy,
Thanks for all the work you have done for us. We just take a seat on our cruise ship and have to write this email to share with you our experience. The itinerary fits for our traveling time. The guide is enthusiasm and driver is so helpful. The shore excursion exceeded our expectation. I'd like to share some lovely pictures.

Many thanks,

Shawn Estebo Group 

Dear Felix,
Thanks for making awesome trip in Okinawa on January 19th. I left a comment on the website, and Mr. Felix quickly replied in a helpful & professional way. Besides, our guide, Yuka, is outstanding! She really understands Kyoto and willing to share with us everything.

Once again, I want to give my appreciation to all of you!

John Monaghan Group

We loved our recent cruise to Japan, especially thanks to Japan Shore Excursions. When the options onboard fell short, Ms. Lara expertly tailored private tours for us, from Nara deer park to Osaka Castle. Aki, our exceptional guide, ensured we experienced each site to the fullest, even helping with our kids and strollers. The courteous drivers added to the experience, showcasing Japanese hospitality. Every attraction was unforgettable, and the tour prices were just right. Huge thanks to Jessica and the team for their fantastic coordination. We'll definitely be back for more.

Paul Cozens

Dear Lynn,
I have enjoyed two wonderful shore excursions and now I send these lovely pictures with an feedback. Without any hyperbole effect, everything is outstanding from booking, our guide – Ms. Kuniko Fujisawa is so lovely, helpful, and excellent English. The itinerary is flexible and exactly what we want, fantastic!

Thank all of you for creating two exciting tours. I will recommend Japan Shore Excursions to all my friends!

Tania Patterson

We used Japan Shore Excursions for 3 tours with our Holland America Circle Japan cruise. Lara was our contact and it all went so smoothly. Her communication was excellent and we were all so happy with our tours of Kyoto, Hiroshima and Gokoyama. Small groups with wonderful English speaking, kind guides and drivers. Waiting at the port for us all with signs and getting back to the ship in plenty of time was managed perfectly. Lara added more people to our group of 4. Payment was easy. We saw so much that we would have missed as the ship tours were booked out and more expensive. I would not hesitate to use this company again. Thank you Lara

Rudelle Group

The tours we booked were wonderful. There was communication if needed with the tour agent, Fiona. The guides were on time and spoke wonderful English even though they were from Japan. Everything worked like clockwork. We loved the small groups that we traveled with. We even received money back when a few people were added to our group. Please do not hesitate to travel with Japan Shore Excursions. You will definitely be satisfied.

Essential Travel Information For Japan Shore Excursions

Japan, a captivating island nation in East Asia, is an ideal destination for cruise passengers seeking a blend of ancient traditions and modern marvels. With its vibrant cities, serene landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, the "land of Sun" offers a variety of experiences that can easily be explored during your Japan shore excursions.

  • Capital city: Tokyo
  • Currency: Japanese Yen (JPY)
  • Timezone: Japan Standard Time (UTC+09:00)
  • Number of islands: Approx. 6,852 (4 main islands: Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu, Shikoku)
  • Number of cruise ports: Over 40 cruise ports across the country
  • Popular cruise lines visiting Japan: Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL),...
Japan Cruise Excursions overview
Mori-Tower-Capture-Tokyo-Tower

Yokohama/Tokyo

The gateway to Japan’s capital, Yokohama connects you to Tokyo’s vibrant chaos and quiet shrines. From sumo stables to Shibuya Crossing, it’s the perfect intro to modern Japan with Mount Fuji watching in the distance.

Himeji-castle-park-Kobe-shore-excursions

Kobe (Kyoto Access)

A sleek port with a famous food scene, Kobe gives you quick access to Kyoto’s golden temples, bamboo groves, and geisha culture. From this port, you would have chances to experience the best of Japan’s elegance on Japan shore excursions.

Himeji Castle--Osaka-Kobe-shore-excursions

Osaka

Where neon signs meet historic castles. Osaka’s high-energy vibe, legendary street food, and close proximity to Nara’s friendly deer make it a must-stop on any cruise route.

Mount Fuji from Shimizu Tour

Shimizu

One of Japan’s most scenic ports, Shimizu rewards you with postcard-perfect views of Mount Fuji. Add in tea fields, shrines, and a lively fish market, this is classic Japan shore excursion.

Nagasaki shore excursions highlights

Nagasaki

With European-style architecture, poignant war history, and peaceful gardens, Nagasaki tells Japan’s international story like no other place can.

Hakata Sightseeing tour from Fukuoka port

Fukuoka (Hakata)

Urban flair meets ancient soul. Wander shrine-dotted streets, slurp legendary Hakata ramen, and feel the rhythm of a city that loves its festivals.

Churaumi Aquarium Naha Okinawa shore excursions attractions

Okinawa (Naha)

Tropical and laid-back, Okinawa offers a whole new side of Japan. Think coral reefs, island castles, and warm island breezes with a Ryukyuan twist.

Hirosaki Castle in Aomori shore excursions

Aomori

Charming and serene, Aomori is a northern gem on your Japan shore excursions. Visit Hirosaki Castle in cherry blossom season or stroll along forested trails and lake shores that soothe the soul.

Japanese cuisine is celebrated for its emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients and exquisite presentation. Here’s a deeper look into the diverse culinary offerings you can enjoy during your shore excursions in Japan:

Sushi and Sashimi

Sushi consists of vinegared rice combined with a variety of ingredients such as seafood, vegetables, and occasionally tropical fruits. Types include nigiri (hand-formed rice with a topping), maki (rolled sushi), and temaki (hand rolls).

Sashimi refers to thinly sliced raw fish or meat served without rice. Popular choices on Japan shore excursions include tuna, salmon, and yellowtail.

Ramen

Ramen comes in several regional varieties, each with its distinct broth and toppings. Examples include Shoyu (soy sauce-based), Miso (fermented soybean paste-based), and Tonkotsu (pork bone-based) ramen. Toppings: Common toppings include sliced pork (chashu), green onions, nori (seaweed), and soft-boiled eggs.

Tempura

Tempura involves lightly battering and deep-frying seafood and vegetables, preserving their flavor and texture. It’s often served with a dipping sauce (tentsuyu) and grated daikon radish. Popular tempura items include shrimp, sweet potatoes, and bell peppers.

Other Popular Dishes

  • Okonomiyaki: A savory pancake containing a variety of ingredients such as cabbage, meat, seafood, and topped with a special sauce and bonito flakes. It’s often referred to as "Japanese pizza."
  • Takoyaki: A popular street food made of batter with octopus pieces, cooked in a special molded pan, and topped with takoyaki sauce and bonito flakes.

Sweet Treats

  • Mochi: Sweet rice cakes with various fillings like red bean paste or fruit flavors. Mochi is often enjoyed during festivals and special occasions.
  • Dorayaki: A type of confection made of two fluffy pancakes filled with sweet red bean paste.

Beverages

  • Green Tea (Matcha): Japan is renowned for its high-quality green tea. Matcha, a powdered form of green tea, is used in both traditional tea ceremonies and modern culinary creations.
  • Sake: A traditional Japanese rice wine that comes in various types and flavors, ranging from dry to sweet. It is often enjoyed with meals or as part of celebratory rituals on Japan shore excursions.
Sushi and Sashimi - Shore excursions Japan
Ramen - Japan cruise excursions
Matcha in Japan - Japan shore excursions
Sake in Japan - Japan shore excursions

Japanese culture is a captivating mix of ancient traditions and contemporary influences, deeply rooted in history yet vibrant and evolving. It is characterized by its harmonious blend of aesthetics, rituals, and celebrations, all of which you can explore through Japan cruise excursions.

Traditional Arts and Practices

  • Tea Ceremony (Sado): Embrace the elegance of the Japanese tea ceremony. This ritual, known for its grace and meticulous process, offers a serene cultural experience that highlights the art of tea preparation and presentation.
  • Kimono Experience: Transform into a traditional Japanese with a kimono rental. Perfect for exploring historical districts and taking memorable photos against iconic backdrops.
  • Ikebana (Flower Arranging): Discover the delicate art of flower arranging, where each arrangement reflects the harmony and simplicity of Japanese aesthetics.

Festivals and Events

  • Cherry Blossom Festivals: Visit during the cherry blossom season to witness Japan’s most celebrated natural spectacle. Locations such as Tokyo’s Shinjuku Gyoen and Kyoto’s Maruyama Park offer stunning views and vibrant festival atmospheres.
  • Gion Matsuri: Experience Kyoto’s famous summer festival with its grand processions and traditional floats, showcasing centuries-old customs and community spirit.
  • Tanabata (Star Festival): Celebrate this whimsical festival with colorful decorations and festive events held in early July, symbolizing the annual meeting of two stars.
Japanese Tea Ceremony - Shore Excursions Japan
Japanese Kimonos - Japan excursions

Mount Fuji

Marvel at the majestic Mount Fuji, Japan’s highest peak, visible from various vantage points and a popular site for climbers.
Fuji Five Lakes: Enjoy recreational activities and scenic views around the Fuji Five Lakes, offering picturesque landscapes and opportunities for outdoor fun.

Cherry Blossoms Season

Experience the beauty of cherry blossoms during your Japan shore excursions at top locations such as Shinjuku Gyoen in Tokyo and Kyoto’s Philosopher's Path. These spots offer stunning backdrops for hanami (flower viewing) picnics. Participate in hanami, a traditional practice of enjoying the fleeting beauty of cherry blossoms with friends and family.

Fall Foliage Season

Witness the breathtaking transformation of Japan’s landscapes during autumn as the foliage turns vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. This seasonal spectacle is best enjoyed in locations such as Kyoto’s temples, Nikko, and the Japanese Alps.

Take in the serene beauty of Japan’s parks and temples adorned with colorful leaves, offering perfect settings for nature walks and photography

Mount Fuji - Shore excursions Japan

Souvenirs to Buy During Your Shore Excursions in Japan

  • Maneki-Neko: Bring home a lucky cat figurine, a popular Japanese charm believed to bring good fortune.
  • Japanese Pottery: Purchase handcrafted pottery such as Arita porcelain or Kutani ware as a beautiful keepsake.
  • Origami Paper: Take home decorative paper for origami, the traditional Japanese art of paper folding.

Food and Beverages

  • Matcha: Buy matcha, a high-quality green tea powder used in various culinary delights and beverages.
  • Japanese Snacks: Explore unique snacks like mochi, senbei (rice crackers), and exotic-flavored Kit-Kat bars.
  • Sake: Enjoy a bottle of sake, Japan’s traditional rice wine, available in a variety of flavors and styles.

Technology

Find the latest gadgets and electronics, from cameras to personal devices, in tech hubs like Tokyo and Osaka.

Anime and Manga Merchandise

For fans of Japanese pop culture, there’s a wide range of anime and manga merchandise to explore.

From ancient traditions to futuristic skylines, Japan offers cruise guests a perfectly curated taste of its rich cultural tapestry all within a day’s reach from port. Whether you're docking in Yokohama, Kobe, Shimizu, or further north in Aomori or Hakodate, here are the most rewarding experiences to enjoy during your shore excursion.

  • Visit Historic Temples & Shrines: Step into centuries of spiritual heritage at sacred sites like Sensoji Temple in Tokyo, Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto, or Toshogu Shrine near Shimizu. These serene places offer not just photo-worthy architecture, but also a quiet moment of reflection.
  • View Mount Fuji: Nothing says “Japan” quite like Mount Fuji. From Shimizu Port, you can take a panoramic ride, visit Miho no Matsubara Pine Grove, or stop by Nihondaira Plateau for unforgettable views of this majestic icon.
  • Savor Japanese Cuisine: Sample local specialties right where they’re made. Try fresh sushi at the port-side Kashi no Ichi Fish Market in Shimizu, feast on Kobe beef, or join a ramen tasting in Fukuoka. For the brave, seek out local izakayas for a true taste of Japan’s culinary soul.
  • Shop Local Crafts & Souvenirs: Japan’s ports are perfect places to browse for handmade ceramics, washi paper, calligraphy sets, and seasonal sweets. Kanazawa is known for gold-leaf crafts, while Kyoto and Nara offer elegant souvenirs rooted in tradition.
  • Experience Cultural Performances: Some tours offer hands-on or front-row experiences, watch a Maiko (apprentice geisha) dance in Kyoto, observe a samurai demonstration, or try on a yukata for a cultural photo session.
  • Stroll Iconic Gardens & Castles: Enjoy a peaceful walk through Kenrokuen Garden (Kanazawa), Korakuen Garden (Okayama), or the majestic grounds of Osaka Castle or Himeji Castle. These stops are perfect for guests who want a lighter, more scenic excursion.
  • Wander Traditional Districts: Lose yourself in the past in places like Gion (Kyoto), Otaru Canal (Otaru), or Motomachi (Yokohama). Cobbled streets, lantern-lit alleys, and old merchant houses bring Japan’s history to life.
  • Explore Local Markets: Markets like Nijo Market (Sapporo), Karato Market (Shimonoseki), or Morning Market in Hakodate are perfect for experiencing Japan through its flavors, colors, and local buzz.

Japan Shore Excursions FAQs

Ninja Museum on Nagoya day tours
Matsue Castle on Sakaiminato shore excursions
Japan shore excursions for NCL Sun cruise
Tea ceremony with Japan Shore Excursions

Which ports in Japan offer easy access to top attractions?

Several Japanese ports offer easy access to top attractions. Shimizu Port is ideal for visiting Mount Fuji, while Yokohama Port connects to Tokyo. Kobe and Maizuru Ports are gateways to Kyoto and Osaka. Otaru Port offers quick access to Sapporo’s highlights.

What is the average duration of a shore excursion in Japan?

The average duration of a shore excursion in Japan is typically 4 to 8 hours, depending on the port and itinerary. Half-day tours (around 4 hours) focus on nearby attractions, while full-day excursions (6–8 hours) allow time for deeper cultural experiences and travel to iconic sites like Kyoto or Mount Fuji.

Are Japan shore excursions suitable for seniors or limited mobility travelers?

Yes, many Japan shore excursions are thoughtfully designed for seniors and travelers with limited mobility. These tours often feature gentle pacing, accessible transport, and visits to attractions with minimal walking or barrier-free facilities. 

Explore More

Japan Travel Guide & Latest News

Discover Japan’s top sights, seasonal events, and travel updates. Stay informed for a memorable journey through Japan's culture and landscapes.

Attractions Travel Guide