Plan Your Japan Shore Excursions: Itineraries and Transportation

Being a country surrounded by the sea, Japan boasts numerous ports, and most cruises to Asia stop in Japan.

Yokohama Port and Kobe Port are two of the most favored docking destinations for international cruise ships due to their prime locations and excellent facilities. Yokohama Port makes it easy for you to visit Tokyo, while Kobe Port allows you to explore Kyoto or Osaka.

In this article, we'll explain everything you need to know to plan Japan shore excursions, including itineraries, transportation, visa requirements, and more.

Should I Have an Organized, Self-Guided, or Private Tour?

Most cruises provide organized group tours. They're usually cost-effective, but their downside is a large group of 30+ clients and fixed itineraries.

For more flexibility, some travelers choose to travel independently. Most cruise ports are conveniently connected by train to the main tour destinations in Japan. This is a good option if you're looking for a flexible and budget-friendly experience. However, without a guide to accompany you, your trip to Japan would lack some background info, stories, and insights. Though you may find out some things yourself with good guidebooks/research, this takes time.

Although group tours are available and self-guided trips are doable, we still receive many bookings each year from cruise clients asking for private shore excursions. These clients choose us as our experienced English-speaking guides not only to take them to the landmarks but also unveil the secrets of Japan. They also prefer the convenience and comfort of being picked up and dropped off at the port with a spacious private car. If this is also your preferred type of tour, contact us to tailor-make your personalized Japan trip.

We also offer small group tours (4-10 people) if you want to enjoy a private tour while saving money.  You could  post on the Cruise Critic forum to find fellow passengers with similar preferences.

Suggested Itineraries for Japan Shore Excursions

After your cruise docks in Japan, you usually have 1–2 days to discover the essence of the country. It's advisable to pick two to three highlights for a day tour that align with your preferences to create a memorable time in Japan.

If your cruise docks at Yokohama Port, it is convenient to explore Tokyo, which is about an hour away.

If your cruise docks at Kobe Port, 40 minutes from Osaka by car, you could choose to visit the main highlights of culture-rich Kyoto or the vibrant city of Osaka. Kyoto is about 30 minutes from Osaka by train.

If your cruise docks at Shimizu Port, Mount Fuji is an attraction that you can't miss.

If Japan is the first or last stop of your cruise, you may want to spend more time exploring this highly popular country. Typically, a 7-day trip allows you to visit the classic highlights of Japan (in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka). A longer vacation could take you to nearby towns too, like Hakone, or rural villages like Takayama, to experience a more traditional Japan. For some itineraries presented for your inspiration, click on Japan Tours.

If Japan is the last stop of your cruise, you could consider extending your trip to nearby countries like South Korea or China.  This is also a popular choice among our clients.

Not stopping at a port of call above? Don't worry! Our Japan travel consultants could tailor your itinerary to the desired port and your requirements.

Day Trips to Tokyo from Yokohama Port

Tokyo is about an hour away from Yokohama Port, making it the top destination for Yokohama shore excursions.

Tokyo is a perfect blend of history and modernity. Feel the Edo vibe and pray for good fortune at the city's oldest temple, Senso-ji; marvel at the breathtaking view of Tokyo's skyline from the tallest tower in the world, Tokyo Skytree; and make sushi for your lunch with the help of a skilled chef.

If you have 2 days in Tokyo, you could spend a day visiting spectacular Mount Fuji.

Day Trips to Mount Fuji from Shimizu Port

Shimizu Port is about 90 minutes from Mount Fuji, meaning a day trip is enough time to admire Japan's iconic mountain.

Day Trips to Kyoto or Osaka from Kobe Port

Kobe Port is convenient for easy access to Kyoto or Osaka. Kyoto is just 70 minutes from Kobe Port, while Osaka is only 40 minutes away.

Kyoto is a traditional medieval Japanese city. Wander through thousands of orange-red torii gates while wearing a kimono at Fushimi Inari Shrine; experience an authentic tea ceremony and enjoy a cup of matcha that you made yourself, and leisurely wander around quaint Gion district.

If you have 2 days in Kyoto, you could have a quintessentially Japanese experience: spend a night at a traditional ryokan inn and sleep on cozy tatamis.

In Osaka, you could sample local street food in the lively Dotonbori district and try your hand at unique ukiyo-e printmaking to gain insights into Japanese culture.

How to Get To and From the Ports in Japan

Transportation in Japan is well-developed, making it convenient to travel from a port to the places you're interested in, whether by private car or public transport.

A private car is an effortless and time-saving way for you to explore Japan's highlights in a limited time. Our car service would pick you up at the port and bring you back after your day tour.

Most ports are located not far from a railway station, so you could take a JR (Japan Railway) train quickly to the places you want. However, you might end up walking over 20,000 steps a day on public transport.

Do I Need a Visa to Visit Japan for Shore Excursions?

Nationals of many countries are exempt from needing a visa to enter Japan, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia. Most travelers can stay in Japan without a visa for 90 days.