Destinations

Asia

Asia

Home to some of the world’s oldest civilizations, Asia is a harmony of countless cultures and histories, frenetic cities, tranquil landscapes, and mesmerizing temples and shrines. A Princess® cruise to Asia is not just a journey from one exotic port to another, it’s an invitation to explore some of the world’s most remarkable destinations on one unforgettable vacation.

Cruises

Southeast Asia Cruises

A world of mystical islands with spellbinding names like Bali and Lombok, and beaches where you can wiggle your toes in the golden sands of Phuket and Langkawi await. Cities like Singapore - with its modern high-rises, lovely Victorian buildings, Buddhist temples and Arab bazaars - is just as enticing. For a glimpse into Old Korea's imperial history, take a stroll among the courtyards of Gyeongbok Palace in Seoul; Commune with nature on a thrilling tour of Komodo Island - home of the endangered Komodo dragon and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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Japan Cruises

A world of mystical islands with spellbinding names like Bali and Lombok, and beaches where you can wiggle your toes in the golden sands of Phuket and Langkawi await. Cities like Singapore - with its modern high-rises, lovely Victorian buildings, Buddhist temples and Arab bazaars - is just as enticing. For a glimpse into Old Korea's imperial history, take a stroll among the courtyards of Gyeongbok Palace in Seoul; Commune with nature on a thrilling tour of Komodo Island - home of the endangered Komodo dragon and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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Why cruise to Asia?

Home to some of the world’s oldest civilizations, Asia is a harmony of countless cultures and histories, frenetic cities, tranquil landscapes, and mesmerizing temples and shrines. A Princess® cruise to Asia is not just a journey from one exotic port to another, it’s an invitation to explore some of the world’s most remarkable destinations on one unforgettable vacation. Glide over Tokyo’s famed Hakone National Park in a gondola, discover Hong Kong’s vibrant nightlife, or cruise along Singapore’s scenic river with stops at two of the city’s oldest temples. Let Princess whisk you away to some of the world’s most intriguing destinations.

Discover the Beauty of Japan

Japan is a study in contrasts: tranquil retreats of profound beauty lay just outside cities where skyscrapers soar over stunning temples and shrines. Neon-bright architecture and pink cherry blossoms vie for attention amid the colorful Harajuku district and traditional kimonos. As the No. 1 North American cruise line in Japan with the “Best Asia Itineraries,”† you can be assured that Princess® will be your guide to the colors, cultures and flavors that define this exciting country.

Shore Excursions

Whether you prefer your activities fast and furious or slow and steady, Princess® offers a vast array of award-winning excursions that provide unique experiences you'll never forget. Take a ride on an aerial ropeway up the sacred and snow-capped Mount Fuji, or a trek inside the mystical Batu Caves of Kuala Lumpur.With our More Ashore program, select destinations include a host of late night departures and overnight adventures so you'll have even more opportunities to experience the colors, cultures and flavors of the region. In Hong Kong, take in the “Symphony of Light” multimedia spectacle that lights up the night, or learn the art of Vietnamese cuisine with a cooking and food decorating class in Ho Chi Minh City.

Food and beverage

When it comes to dining on board, you get the best of both words — delicious regional dishes to try and familiar favorites you'll love. Sip and savor local delicacies, such as fresh sushi, a variety of authentic noodles and fine Japanese whiskeys.Our cuisine is prepared from scratch, using regionally sourced ingredients — from the stocks that make up the soups and sauces in the main dining room, to fresh sashimi at Kai Sushi, Tako Sunomono (mirin-marinated octopus, wakame and sliced cucumber), the delicious desserts, and hand-tossed pizza named “Best Pizza at Sea” by USA TODAY. You'll be able to taste the freshness and care that goes into every dish.

Activities

Day or night, there are plenty of opportunities to discover unique experiences that provide you with a new perspective on the region. On select Princess® cruises, your immersion in Asia continues on board with a mix of Western and Asian entertainment, including Chinese Crosstalk Comedy, astounding Magic Illusion shows, and visually impactful guest entertainers and production shows.†

Cruise Tours

Borneo Wildlife & Kuala Lumpur

Behold creatures great and small like orangutans and sun bears during your stay in Sandakan at the Borneo Nature Lodge. Explore Kuala Lumpur and see the Petronas Towers – Malaysia’s pride and joy. In the heart of the city, take photos at the Old Railway Station, one of the region’s most photographed landmarks.

Highlights of Japan

Embark on a magical voyage that leads you along the shores of Japan’s northernmost island, Hokkaido. Visit Nara’s impressive Todaiji Temple and the breathtaking Kasuga Taisha Shrine. Gaze out over the city from Tokyo’s Skytree Tembo Deck perched 1,148 feet. Experience the breathtaking beauty of Kyoto with stops at Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion) and Nijo Castle.

Temples andTraditions of Japan

Delve into Japan’s rich heritage with an adventure that features a full day of sightseeing in Kyoto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover the city of Kanazawa and visit the Higashi Chaya (Geisha) district, or relax in a hot spring spa. In Tokyo, awe in wonder at the majestic splendor of Mount Fuji, the ancient Asakusa Sensoji temple, or take in the beautiful Meiji Jingu Shrine.

Best of China

Spend three nights in Beijing and explore UNESCO World Heritage sites including the Great Wall of China, Summer Palace, Temple of Heaven, the Forbidden City and spend one night in Xian visiting the Terra Cotta Warriors. An overnight stay in Shanghai includes a visit to the Bund, Yu Gardens, the Jade Buddha Temple and Jinmao Hyatt Building.

Ancient Angkor Wat & Cambodia

Soak up the magical atmosphere of Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s busy capital, with visits to the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda as well as the Toul Sleng Genocide Museum. A flight takes you to Siem Reap where the culture and history of the Angkor Thom Complex is sure to be a highlight. Take in the stunning sight of Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world. In Singapore, pass by iconic places such as Chinatown and the Financial District before boarding your ship.

Ports

Hong Kong, China

Take in the spectacle of one of the world’s great travel destinations at dusk from the seat of a vintage double-decker tram. Journey to Tai O, “Hong Kong’s Little Venice,” for a look at a fishing village built atop stilts. Pay homage to the extraordinary bronze Tian Tan Buddha statue at the Po Lin Monastery; at 111-feet high, it’s the world’s largest outdoor Buddha and draws visitors from all over the world.

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Skyscrapers form a glistening forest of steel and glass, junks and sampans ply the busy harbor waters, and the green, dragon-crested hills of Kowloon beckon. Welcome to Hong Kong, one of the world’s great travel destinations. Now a semi-autonomous region of China, Hong Kong - literally "Fragrant Harbor" - has lost none of its charm, excitement or exoticism. Modern skyscrapers and luxury hotels climb the slopes of Hong Kong Island. Narrow streets are crammed with noodle vendors, fortunetellers and bonesetters. The endless array of shops offer the visitor everything from hand-tailored suits and ancient porcelain to the latest consumer electronics. And everywhere more than seven million people are moving at a breathtaking pace in one of the world’s great monuments to capitalism, commerce and enterprise.

The former Crown Colony has enough attractions to last a lifetime. To take in the entire spectacle, head to Victoria Peak for panoramic views. Enjoy lunch on one of the city’s floating restaurants. Walk down one of the crowded streets to take the city’s rapid pulse. And whether you think you are in the mood or not - shop. After all, you are in the duty-free capital of the world.

  • Victoria Peak & Tram

    Accessed via one of the world’s oldest funicular railways, this peak (located 1805 feet above sea level) offers panoramic views of Hong Kong Island, Victoria Harbor and the Kowloon Peninsula.

  • Harbor Cruise

    The beauty of Hong Kong reveals itself during this magnificent cruise through the glistening waters of Eastern Harbour to the Central, Wanchai, Causeway Bay and North Point waterfronts.

  • Stanley Market

    One of the world’s great bazaars, this fabled market features a dazzling array of stalls and shops that sell handcrafted souvenirs and jewelry, fashions, cameras and toys at reasonable prices.

  • Lantau Island & Po Lin Monastery

    Twice the size of Hong Kong Island, this sparsely populated island features a traditional fishing village as well as the popular Po Lin Monastery featuring the world’s largest outdoor buddha.

  • Macau

    An exotic blend of Chinese and Portuguese cultures, this former colony features an ancient temple honoring a goddess, a sky tower offering stunning views and a cultural museum.

  • Man Mo Temple

    The smell of incense pervades this oldest and most famous of Hong Kong’s temples, dedicated to Man, God of Literature and Mo, God of Martial Valor.

  • Dim Sum

    Enjoy the lively nature of a traditional dim sum meal, served by wait staff in mouthwatering small plates of dumplings, spring rolls and tarts.

Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan

There’s probably no other city on earth that embraces the future while honoring its beloved past the way Tokyo does. From its captivating architecture to its meticulously maintained gardens, shrines and temples, Tokyo never fails to delight and inspire. Here, you can learn the miraculous legend surrounding Sensoji, Tokyo’s oldest temple; savor the perfect cup of tea during a traditional tea ceremony; or peer into steaming sulfur springs inside Japan’s famed Hakone National Park, home of Mount Fuji.

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Yokohama and Edo began life as sleepy fishing villages. That changed in the early 17th century after Tokugawa Ieyasu became Shogun. Edo became the center of political power in Japan, a position the city retained even after the restoration of Imperial rule in 1866.

Contemporary Tokyo may be the most astonishing city on earth. It’s a paradoxical mix of ancient tradition and postmodern culture. The Ginza - an international shopping mecca - stands near the serene grounds of the Imperial Palace, and the hyper-speed of 21st century consumerism is mysteriously reconciled with the elegance and serenity of traditional culture. Tokyo provides the traveler with a dizzying experience.

With the Meiji Restoration of 1868, Edo was renamed Tokyo, the "Eastern Capital," to distinguish it from the old imperial capital at Kyoto, the "Western Capital."

  • Imperial Palace Plaza

    The residence of Japan’s Imperial Family boasts a large park area surrounded by moats and massive stone walls in the center of Tokyo.

  • Meiji Shrine

    Dedicated to the Emperor Meiji, the father of modern Japan, the Meiji Shrine stands in a dense forest glade at the very heart of Tokyo. Its setting symbolizes the separation of the spiritual from the worldly.

  • Sensoji Temple

    Sensoji was built to honor Kannon, the goddess of mercy in the early 7th century. Today, Sensoji Temple is Tokyo’s oldest temple.

  • Tokyo Tower

    Taller than the Eiffel Tower by approximately 30 feet, Tokyo Tower is in the record books as Japan’s 2nd highest self-supporting iron structure at 1,092 feet.

  • Great Buddha of Kamakura (Diabutsu)

    This monumental outdoor bronze statue of Amida Buddha is located at the Kôtoku-in Temple in Kamakura. According to temple records, it probably dates back to 1252 in the Kamakura period.

  • Hakone Ropeway-Owakudani-Lake Ashi

    Japan’s famed Hakone National Park, a ropeway journey that promises such spectacular views as the crystal-clear waters of Lake Ashi and the volcanic fumes of Owakudani.

  • Mount Fuji

    Mount Fuji is the highest mountain in Japan at 12,389 feet, and one of Japan’s "Three Holy Mountains." Its exceptionally symmetrical cone is a well-known symbol of Japan.

  • Sankeien Gardens

    Once the private gardens of a wealthy silk merchant, Sankeien Gardens features sculpted trees, lily ponds, graceful bridges and historic buildings collected from around Japan.

Kobe, Japan

This prominent port may be famous for its succulent beef, but it’s also renowned as the gateway to the splendid sights of Kyoto, Osaka and Nara. Kobe was once considered the cradle of Japanese art and culture during the 8th century. Through Kobe, you can access Nara, home to the immense Todaiji Temple, which holds a bronze Buddha statue that is nearly 50 feet tall and weighs 500 tons!

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Kobe is the fifth-largest city in Japan and is the capital city of Hyogo Prefecture on the southern side of the main island of Honshu. Its name comes from "kanbe", an archaic title for supporters of the city’s Ikuta Shrine. With a population of about 1.5 million, the city is part of the Keihanshin (Keihanshin) metropolitan area along with Osaka and Kyoto.

The earliest written records regarding the region come from the Nihon Shoki, which describes the founding of the Ikuta Shrine by Empress Jingu in AD 201. For most of its history the area was never a single political entity, even during the Tokugawa Period, when the port was controlled directly by the Tokugawa Shogunate. Kobe did not exist in its current form until its founding in 1889.

Kobe was one of the cities to open for trade with the West following the end of the policy of seclusion and has since been known as a cosmopolitan port city. While the 1995 Great Hanshin Earthquake diminished much of Kobe’s prominence as a port city, it remains Japan’s fourth busiest container port. The city is the point of origin and namesake of Kobe beef as well as the site of one of Japan’s most famous hot spring resorts, Arima Onsen. Kobe is also your gateway to Kyoto, Japan’s ancient imperial capital and the nation’s cultural and spiritual center.

  • Golden Pavilion (Kyoto)

    The Golden Temple is considered the premier example of Muromachi Era (1337 - 1573) design.

  • Ryoanji Temple (Kyoto)

    Ryonanji famous Zen rock garden features 15 rocks set in meticulously raked white gravel.

  • Nijo Castle

    Built by Tokugawa’s first shogun, the majestic 410-year-old castle is the site of two lavish palaces.

  • Kitano-cho (Kobe)

    Explore the former mansions of foreign merchants that are now preserved as museums in this city district nestled at the foot of the Rokko Mountains. The cafés and shops you will see are converted from these homes.

  • Mt Rokko

    Climb to the highest peak for panoramic views of Kobe from this 3,000-foot vantage point. A botanical garden, observation deck, aerial cable car and other outdoor activities can be enjoyed.

  • Sake Brewery Museum

    Tour an original museum, showcasing Kobe’s excellence in sake production. Here, you’ll learn the history and production of this rice-based liquor through life-size exhibits.

  • Awajishima Island

    At this largest island in the Seto Inland Sea, visitors marvel at the natural scenery, including the whirlpools of the Naruto Strait. The longest suspension bridge in the world links the island with Kobe.

  • Ishiyama-dera Temple

    Founded in 749 as the headquarters of one of the Shingon Buddhist sects, this magnificent temple complex is situated on a mountaintop.

Beijing (Tianjin), China

Beijing is rightfully acclaimed as one of the world’s great cities for its mix of rich traditions and modern adaptations. Nowhere else can you experience the majesty of the Forbidden City, an enormous 250-acre compound of palaces, pavilions and courtyards, or journey to the Great Wall and stroll along a restored section of its battlements. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this 600-year-old treasure is considered a masterpiece of architecture and landscape design.

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Literally the "Northern Capital," Beijing has been the seat of power in China since the days of Kublai Khan. At the heart of this immense, fascinating metropolis is the Forbidden City, a 250-acre complex of palaces, pavilions and courtyards where the Emperor ruled from his Dragon Throne. Even the most seasoned travelers will experience a sense of awe as they approach the Forbidden City’s 25-feet high walls and enter through the magnificent Meridian Gate, a symbol of the sun at its zenith - and of imperial power and splendor.

The capital of The People’s Republic of China covers a staggering area of some 6,336 square miles and boasts a population of over 20 million people.

  • Forbidden City

    This 720,000-square mile complex of intricate pavilions, gardens, buildings and courtyards is the largest imperial palace in China, and was home to 24 emperors between 1420 and 1923.

  • Great Wall

    Dating back to 453 B.C., the largest wall in the world is really comprised of several walls made of varying materials and stretches from the Bo Hai Sea to the Gobi Desert.

  • Tiananmen Square

    This world’s largest public square holds 300,000 people and is equal to 90 football fields. A 121-foot pillar called the Monument to the People’s Heroes stands in the center of the square.

  • Temple of Heaven

    This round temple with black-tiled roof features a huge park built to promote bountiful harvests and favor with heaven. Opposite sections of the park symbolize Earth and heaven.

  • Summer Palace

    Stately gardens, walking paths and promenades surround pavilions and temples along a massive lake. Built from 1749 to 1764, the palace was twice destroyed in the next century, and made public in 1924.

  • Lama Temple

    Second only to the Temple of Heaven, this complex has an impressive structure of buildings with bright gold-tiled roofs. Built in 1694, today it is a place of worship for Tibetan Buddhism.

  • Panjiayuan Market

    This giant flea market sells everything: jewelry, furniture, antiques and reproductions, paintings and calligraphy, Buddhist statues, porcelain and ceramics, and more. It’s the place to bargain.

  • Tour Sites at Guests Discretion

Singapore

Relish the convenience of sailing roundtrip from one of the world’s great cities, where the primary language is English. These engaging voyages take you to some of the continent’s most exciting ports in Vietnam, Malaysia, Thailand and more. Singapore’s mixed culture is a mesmerizing mix of Buddhist temples, British-inspired Victorian buildings, Arab souks and ultra-modern skyscrapers, and is easily accessible via Changi Airport, a well-connected airhub.

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Singapore - the very name summons visions of the mysterious East. The commercial center of Southeast Asia, this island city-state of four million people is a metropolis of modern high-rise buildings, Chinese shop-houses with red-tiled roofs, sturdy Victorian buildings, Buddhist temples and Arab bazaars. Founded in 1819 by Sir Stamford Raffles of the fabled East India Company, the city is a melting pot of people and cultures. Malay, Chinese, English and Tamil are official languages. Buddhism, Taoism, Islam, Hinduism and Christianity are the major faiths. Singapore is an ever-fascinating island boasting colorful traditions, luxurious hotels and some of the finest duty-free shopping in the world.

Lying just 85 miles north of the Equator at the tip of the Malay Peninsula, the island was a haven for Malay pirates and Chinese and Arab traders.

  • Thian Hock Keng Temple/Chinatown/Sri Mariamman Temple

    Shop and dine on authentic dishes in lively Chinatown after immersing yourself in Hindu culture at the 19th-century Sri Mariamman and Thian Hock Keng Temples, the oldest and most popular in Singapore.

  • Botanic Gardens

    The Gardens epitomize the tropical island’s luxuriant parks. Spread over 52 hectares, they offer a combination of untouched primary forest and specialty gardens, including the National Orchid Garden.

  • Raffles Hotel

    See the hotel that’s been immortalized in novels and history books. Visit the Long Bar, home of the famed "Singapore Sling" and the Bar & Billiard Room, with its "Tiger under the Billiard Table."

  • Orchard Road

    Welcome to the shopping and entertainment hub of the city. Named after the orchards that covered the area until the 19th century, today you could spend hours shopping, eating and people-watching.

  • Jurong Bird Park

    With over 8,000 residents representing 600 species, this bird sanctuary is the largest in the world. Don’t miss the huge walk in aviaries (one with giant waterfall) in a lush jungle setting.

  • Singapore River Cruise

    Climb aboard a bumboat and sail along the river that was once the city’s main commercial lifeline. Today, the modern world combines with the idyllic charm of the quays, a union that is Singapore.

  • Little India & Sultan Mosque

    Inhale the spicy aromas of Little India, strolling past awe-inspiring structures like Veeramakaliamman Temple, and admire the prayer hall and gilded domes of Masjid Sultan, the great Sultan Mosque.

  • Singapore Zoo

    Considered among the best in the world, the zoo sits in a rainforest environment. Its "open concept" offers the opportunity to fully experience the animals and be inspired by the wonders of nature.