Grand Circle Japan with Summer Festivals & Kumano Fireworks – Sapphire Princess – Princess Cruises

HomeSearchGrand Circle Japan with Summer Festivals & Kumano Fireworks – Sapphire Princess – Princess Cruises – 2027-08-04

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Your itinerary

Tokyo, Japan
Akita, Japan
Sakata, Japan
Kanazawa
Sakaiminato, Japan
Busan
Nagasaki
Kagoshima
Tokyo, Japan
Nagoya
Kumano, Japan
Kobe
Wakayama (Shimotsu), Japan
Beppu, Japan
Hiroshima, Japan
Kanmon Straits, Japan
Busan
Nagasaki
Kagoshima
Kochi, Japan
Shimizu
Tokyo, Japan

Day 1

4th Aug '27

Tokyo, Japan

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16:00

Day 2

5th Aug '27

At Sea

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Day 3

6th Aug '27

Akita, Japan

There is a celebratory air in Akita, where year round festivals and street parades are colorfully integrated into daily life. A key city in the Tohoku region since medieval times, Akita was once a castle town of the Satake clan, but today is a vibrant, prosperous city that seamlessly honors its past but embraces its young energetic spirit. Noted for its burgeoning art community, there are several fine museums to explore including The Hirano Masakichi Art Musuem housing a collection of work by Western and Japanese artists, the Akita City Folklore Museum and the Kakunodate Samurai District, a living museum that showcases the samurai way of life. In the neighboring Oga Peninsula, the region’s most famous icon, the terrifying Namahage, has it’s won cultural center and festival ritual performed in his name. Surrounding the city, fertile farmland and rice fields produce some of the best sake in the country and nature lovers won’t know which way to turn – to the west is the picturesque Sea of Japan and to the north, south and east, majestic mountain ranges including the UNESCO World Heritage sight of Shirakami-Sanchi proudly stand. A trip to the revolving observation center Mt. Kanpuzan Observatory solves the dilemma. More

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9:00

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Day 4

7th Aug '27

Sakata, Japan

Sakatais a medium-sized city in Yamagata Prefecture. Sakata is located in the fertile Shonai Plain that is known for its high-quality rice. The city grew as an important stop along the coastal shipping route that connected Hokkaido with Osaka via ports along the Sea of Japan and Seto Inland Sea during the Edo Period. A local merchant family, the Honma clan, came to dominate trade in the city and accrued a vast fortune that made them wealthier than some of the country’s feudal lords. Due to their power and influence, the clan developed close ties with the local lords and had a number of lavish buildings built. Some of these buildings still stand today along with museums and other attractions. More

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Day 5

8th Aug '27

At Sea

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Day 6

9th Aug '27

Kanazawa

Kanazawa is the capital of Ishikawa Prefecture, on Japan’s central Honshu Island. It’s known for well-preserved Edo-era districts, art museums and regional handicrafts. Kenrokuen Garden, begun in the 17th century, is celebrated for its classic landscape designs incorporating ponds and streams. More

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Day 7

10th Aug '27

Sakaiminato, Japan

Wedged between sea, sky and mountains, this small fishing port has been esteemed for centuries for its superb seafood. Here, the Sea of Japan yields up both crab and hon-maguro, the prized Bluefin tuna esteemed by gourmets around the world. Sakaiminato is also your gateway to a very ancient region of Honshu. West of the city lies Izumo-taisha, one of the oldest and holiest shrines in Shinto. This area is dotted with burial mounds from Japan’s Bronze Age. The town of Matsue boasts the celebrated “Black Castle,” a six-story, black-walled castle that home to a clan of the mighty Tokugawa dynasty that ruled Japan for over 250 years. And to the east rises the great snow-capped summit of Mt. Daisen, considered one of the four most scenic mountains in all Japan. More

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Day 8

11th Aug '27

Busan

The second largest city in South Korea, Busan is your gateway to a fascinating land whose culture is a unique amalgam of old and new. Modern high-rise towers dwarf ancient Buddhist temples. The city’s bustling business district offers a stark contrast to the serene grounds of Yongdusan Park. In short, Busan is a microcosm of South Korea, a nation whose startling economic success often obscures one of Asia’s most sophisticated and venerable cultures. Busan was the scene of bitter fighting during the Korean War. The United Nations Memorial Cemetery marks the final resting place for the troops from 16 nations who gave their lives during the conflict. More

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Day 9

12th Aug '27

Nagasaki

For most travelers, Nagasaki is a symbol of the horror and the inhumanity of war. An estimated 75,000 people perished in 1945 when the city became the second target of a nuclear attack. Today, Nagasaki’s Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum draw visitors from around the world. But this beautiful city on Kyushu offers other sights. Often described as the San Francisco of Japan, the city occupies verdant hills surrounded by a deep-water bay. For three centuries, Nagasaki was Japan’s sole window on the world. The city is also celebrated as the setting for Puccini’s opera “Madame Butterfly.” More

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Day 10

13th Aug '27

Kagoshima

From the 12th century to the Meiji Restoration of 1868, Kagoshima was the chief stronghold of the mighty Shimazu clan. The city lies at the top of the Satsuma Peninsula, a mountainous, geothermal wonderland of hot springs and geysers. The area is also rich in modern Japanese history: Saigo Takamori and the Satsuma samurai were leaders of the Meiji Restoration that toppled the shogun and restored the Emperor to power in 1868. In 1877, dissatisfied with the direction of the new government, Saigo led the Satsuma Rebellion, which ended in his death and the final defeat of the samurai. The symbol of Kagoshima is Sakura Jima – the volcanic island that sits just offshore. The volcano has erupted over 30 times in recorded history. More

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Day 11

14th Aug '27

At Sea

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Day 12

15th Aug '27

Tokyo, Japan

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Day 13

16th Aug '27

Nagoya

Nagoya, capital of Japan’s Aichi Prefecture, is a manufacturing and shipping hub in central Honshu. The city’s Naka ward is home to museums and pachinko (gambling machine) parlors. Naka also includes the Sakae entertainment district, with attractions like the Sky-Boat Ferris wheel, which is attached to a mall. More

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Day 14

17th Aug '27

Kumano, Japan

Kumano is a city located in Mie Prefecture, Japan. As of August 2015, the city had an estimated population of 17,727 and a population density of 47.4 persons per km². The total area was 373.35 square kilometres. More

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Day 15

18th Aug '27

Kobe

The Port of Kobe is a Japanese maritime port in Kobe, Hyōgo in the greater Osaka area, backgrounded by the Hanshin Industrial Region. More

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Day 16

19th Aug '27

Wakayama (Shimotsu), Japan

Wakayama is a Japanese prefecture in the Kansai region, on Honshū island’s Kii Peninsula. Its namesake capital is home to Wakayama Castle, an Edo-period replica set in a hilltop park with city views. Pilgrimage routes connect a trio of Shinto shrines collectively known as Kumano Sanzan. More

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Day 17

20th Aug '27

Beppu, Japan

Ominous steam rises from the Japanese island of Kyushu where Beppu lies in wait. But not to worry – this legendary tourist town is renowned for its healing geothermal waters and spas. Overlooking Beppu Bay to its east and protected from the west by dramatic mountain peaks, this exotic city is blanketed with misty turquoise waters and elegant Japanese foliage. Its main attraction is the “Hells of Beppu,” a collection of nine stunning onsen, or hot springs, some of which feature geysers and colorful waters in shades from white to copper to sapphire. The springs’ names, including Kamado-Jigoku (Boiling Hell) and Oniyama-Jigoku (Demon Mountain Hell), are somewhat misleading as all of the hot springs are breathtakingly beautiful rather than frightening – though your nose may cower and crinkle at the sulfurous odor they emit! More

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Day 18

21st Aug '27

Hiroshima, Japan

On August 6, 1945, human history was irrevocably altered when the American bomber Enola Gay dropped an atomic bomb on Hiroshima. The bomb was code-named “Little Boy,” but its detonation left half the city in ruins and aflame. Today, Hiroshima is a monument not only to the destructive forces harnessed by men but also to the indomitable will of the human spirit to overcome tragedy. At the heart of the city lies Peace Memorial Park and the Atomic Bomb Dome. The gutted walls of the city’s old Industry Promotion Hall and the skeletal frame that supported its copper dome, vaporized in the blast, are instantly recognizable symbols of Hiroshima. Travelers to Hiroshima will discover a more serene note at nearby Miyajima Island. One of the top-three scenic spots of Japan, the island is home to ancient Itsukushima Shrine, a designated National Treasure. More

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Day 19

22nd Aug '27

Kanmon Straits, Japan

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Day 20

23rd Aug '27

Busan

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Day 21

24th Aug '27

Nagasaki

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Day 22

25th Aug '27

Kagoshima

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Day 23

26th Aug '27

Kochi, Japan

Kochi sits on the broad alluvial plain facing Urado Bay. This city in Shikoku takes its name from the great feudal castle that sits at its very heart. Completed in 1611, Kochi Castle was the seat of Yamauchi Kazutoyo, a noted warrior who supported Tokugawa Ieyasu in his successful quest to become Shogun. Tosa Province and Kochi Castle were Yamauchi’s reward for faithful service. There is an historical irony here: 250 years later, a Kochi native son – a former low-ranked samurai and now ronin named Sakamoto Ryoma – played a pivotal role in bringing the Tokugawa Shogunate to an end and restoring the Emperor of Japan to political prominence. The prize once awarded for faithful service had become a hotbed of support for the Meiji Restoration. Kochi is one of the wettest places in Japan – and a frequent target for cyclonic storms or typhoons. Southeast of the city, warm oceans currents washing against the Aki Mountains create a subtropical landscape of hibiscus, palm and ficus at Muroto-Anan Quasi-National Park. More

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Day 24

27th Aug '27

Shimizu

A mesmerizing landscape, a revered cultural history, and Japan’s most sacred volcano are just a few of the many delights beckoning you to come and explore this ancient city. While Shimizu may have the reputation as being bustling and modern, its cultural and spiritual side is on display in the form of ancient and enthralling shrines. Of course, it may be the sacred and snow-capped Mount Fuji that garners the most attention. Towering over the region at approximately 12,388 feet above sea level, the active volcano, designated a “place and source of artistic inspiration” by UNESCO is just one of the many unforgettable adventures Shimizu inspires. More

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Day 25

28th Aug '27

Tokyo, Japan

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Your ship - The Sapphire Princess

Sapphire Princess

Alfredos

Art

Chefs

Fresh

Princess

Skywalkers

Sterling

Traditional

Vegas

Just

Live

mini-golf

outdoor

Main

entertainment-shows

Rod

The

Entertainers

pool-woman-splash

The

Onboard

Wifi

dining

Lotus

choreography-dance-show

Cocktail

Comedy

massage

crooners-bar-lounge

Games

dance

Deal

Destination-themed

Umai

Ocean

entertainment-shows

Marketplace

fitness-center

360_dining

fitness-classes

Main

International

Description Food and Drink Entertainment Relaxation Fitness Recreational Technology Other

As you set your sights on the wonders of the world, let Sapphire Princess indulge your every whim. Over 700 balconies, world-class gourmet dining and dazzling entertainment options are just the beginn... of your sea-going adventure. Dance the night away, enjoy casino gaming or relax and rejuvenate body and mind at the Lotus Spa. More Less

alfredo’s pizzeria
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chef’s table experience
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churrascaria brazilian grill
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crab shack
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crooners
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good spirits® at sea
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horizon court
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international café
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main dining room
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oceannow® delivery
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prego pizzeria
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reserve collection dining
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sabatini’s℠ italian trattoria
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swirls ice cream bar
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trident grill
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ultimate balcony dining
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vines wines bar
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wheelhouse bar
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fine arts gallery
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movies under the stars®
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music & dancing
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pools & hot tubs
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princess theater
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skywalkers nightclub
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the piazza
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vegas style casino
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conservatory
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lotus spa®
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the princess® luxury bed
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the sanctuary
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truly luxurious accommodations at sea
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lotus spa® fitness center
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family
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just for kids 3-7
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just for kids 8-12
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just for teens 13-17
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medallionnet® & medallionnet® max
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truly luxurious accommodations at sea
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Staterooms

balcony

Approximately 237 to 277 sq. ft. including balcony, this cabin provides outstanding views from a pr ... ivate balcony. This impressive stateroom offers the added indulgence of a balcony and gives you more space than a standard stateroom. Enjoy your own private outdoor space with a table, two chairs, and a relaxing view of the inspiring scenery surrounding you, whether a beautiful sunset over the ocean or a new city to explore. It’s also perfect to enjoy cocktails before dinner or a leisurely breakfast. Balcony with 2 chairs and table. Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors. Comfortable queen or two twin beds. Refrigerator. Flat-panel television. Private bathroom with shower. 100% cotton, high-thread count linens. Complimentary 24-hour room service. Spacious closet. Desk with chair. Hair dryer & bathroom amenities. Digital security safe.

inside

The Interior stateroom is Approximately 168 sq. ft., this well appointed interior stateroom provide ... s fine amenities. These staterooms are the perfect place to recharge your batteries. Our most affordable option, featuring two twin beds or a queen-size bed. Other amenities include a refrigerator, hair dryer, TV, closet and bathroom with shower. Comfortable queen or two twin beds. Refrigerator. Flat-panel television. Private bathroom with shower. 100% cotton, high-thread count linens. Complimentary 24-hour room service. Spacious closet. Desk with chair. Hair dryer & bathroom amenities. Digital security safe.

suite

Approximately 613 sq. ft. including balcony, the Two Bedroom Family Suite features 2 bedrooms to ac ... commodate up to 6 passengers. Enjoy exclusive suite-only upgrades and benefits. Surrounding you with deluxe accommodations, a spacious Suite with balcony* includes all the amenities of a Reserve Collection Mini-Suite, plus incredible premiums. Enjoy more living space, a sofa bed and separate seating areas, and wonderfully enhanced amenities that range from priority embarkation and disembarkation to a complimentary mini-bar setup in suite and so much more. Luxury balcony furniture including 2 loungers, 4 chairs, table and ottoman 2 floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors Separate sitting area with sofa bed, chair and 2 tables One complimentary mini-bar setup and free daily bottled water Spacious closet Complimentary laundry and professional cleaning services Complimentary Specialty Dining Dinner on embarkation evening^ Priority specialty dining and shore excursion reservation Priority disembarkation at tender ports Comfortable queen or two twin beds Refrigerator Two flat-panel televisions Private bathroom with tub and separate shower 100% cotton, high-thread count linens Complimentary 24-hour room service Desk with chair Hair dryer & fine bathroom amenities Digital security safe

outside

Approximately 183 sq. ft., this well appointed stateroom features a picture window with an obstruct ... ed view. Enjoy the added benefit of a view of the ocean from either a picture window or porthole that brings in natural light. This stateroom includes all the amenities of an interior room. A spacious picture window for memorable views. Comfortable queen or two twin beds. Refrigerator. Flat-panel television. Private bathroom with shower. 100% cotton, high-thread count linens. Complimentary 24-hour room service. Spacious closet. Desk with chair. Hair dryer & bathroom amenities. Digital security safe.