Have you already booked a cruise to Japan? Let All Japan Tours assist you in planning your shore excursions or day tours. Whether you are interested in joining a Japan tour before boarding your cruise or afterwards, we can provide tour guides at nearly every port in Japan to help you navigate through the country’s must-see sites. Join a pre/post cruise tour for a fulfilling trip to Japan by both land and sea. Listed below are some of the most popular ports of Japan with shore excursion ideas.

Akita: A vibrant city noted for its thriving art and museum scene, as well as producing some of the country’s best sake. Home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Shirakami-Sanchi mountain range. Points of interest include Lake Tazawa, the Kakunodate Samurai District, the Akita City Folklore Museum, and the Mt. Kanpuzan Observatory.

Beppu: An exotic hot springs town that is best known for its “Hells of Beppu”, which are a collection of nine onsen (hot spring) attractions. Steamy, therapeutic waters and spas encompass this legendary town, surrounded by stunning mountain peaks and lush foliage. Points of interests are Jigokumeguri, Yufuin Onsen, Mt. Takasaki Monkey Park, and the Usa Jingu Shrine.

Hakodate: A long-established producer for Japan’s finest raw fish, it was the first port in Japan to open to Westerners in 1859. Visitors can still view the town’s cobblestone streets and Western-style, early 20th century homes. Excursion suggestions include Mt. Hakodate, the Morning Market, Goryokaku Pentagonal Fort, Onuma Quasi-National Park, and the Red Brick Warehouses.

Hiroshima: Site of one of the infamous atomic bombings during WWII, a monument city and home to a National Treasure. Visitors can spend time at the city’s Peace Memorial Park, or its serene Miyajima Island, one of Japan’s three most scenic sites. Points of interest are the Hiroshina Peace Memorial Park, Atomic Bomb Dome, Itsukushima Shrine, Hiroshima Castle, and Shukkein Garden.

Kagoshima: Best known for its active volcano, Mt. Sakurajima, which has erupted 30 times in its recorded history. Kagoshima also holds rich Japanese history during the feudal era. It is located at the top of a peninsula which features unique, geothermal sand baths. Excursion suggestions include Chiran, Ibusuki, Sakura Jima, Lake Ikeda, and Senganen (Iso Garden).

Kanazawa: Most popular for being the location of one of Japan’s three most beautiful gardens, the Kenrokuen Garden. The city also holds a rich arts & crafts scene and well-preserved samurai and geisha residences. It remains one of the most important cities of its prefecture. Recommended shore excursions are the Kenrokuen Garden, Higashichaya Machi, 21st Century Museum, Shirakawago & Gokayama, and Nagamachi Samurai House Row.

Kobe: A cosmopolitan port city and gateway to the cultural center of Kyoto. It is the origin of the famed Kobe beef and is considered one of Japan’s most attractive cities. Kobe was hit by the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake in 1995, but has since been rebuilt with few signs of the tragic event. Port excursion ideas are Arima Onsen, Mt. Rokko, Sake Brewery Museum, Kitano, and Shin-Kobe Ropeway.

Kushiro: A major fishing port overlooking the Pacific Ocean in northern Japan. This coastal city offers a variety of restaurants, boutiques, and plenty of natural scenery. It is the most populous city in eastern Hokkaido. Points of interest include the Crane Nature Park, Washo Fish Market, Cape Aikappu, the Kushiro Marshland, and Hokuto Observatory.

Maizuru: One of the main port cities of the Kyoto Prefecture. It was once an important port during the Russo-Japanese War, and today it serves as a center for the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force. Maizuru is also known for its rich nature and scenic locations. Sightseeing spots include the Fukuoka Castle and Amanohashidate Kasamatsu Park. Other attractions are located nearby in Kyoto, such as the Golden Pavilion and Ryoanji Temple.

Miyazaki: Located on the south-eastern side of the Kyushu Island, Miyazaki is known for having one of the warmest climates of Japan’s main islands. It is home to various resorts and beaches, making it a beautiful destination for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Points of interest include the Obi Castle Ruins, Aoshima Island, Shochu Brewery, and Udo Shrine.

Nagasaki: To many travelers, Nagasaki is known as the location for the second nuclear bomb attack during WWII. For this reason, visitors from all over the world come to visit the Nagasaki Peace Park to commemorate this tragic event. On a lighter note, Nagasaki offers stunning views and is often nicknamed the “San Francisco of Japan”. Points of interest are the Glover Garden, Oura Catholic Church, Gunkanjima, Mount Inasa, and Dejima.

Okinawa: Japan’s southernmost prefecture, an island chain with subtropical climates. Okinawa is for having some of the world’s most beautiful coral reefs, large number of marine life, and spectacular snorkeling/scuba diving spots. Its three main islands are Okinawa Island, Miyako Island, and the Yaeyama Islands. Shore excursion ideas include Shurijo Castle, Okinawa Prefecture Peace Memorial Museum & Peace Park, Shikinaen Gardens, and Churaumi Aquarium.

Osaka: The second largest metropolis of Japan after Tokyo. It was once the capital city of Japan and has greatly shaped Japan’s society with its cultural influences. Visitors will find many historical monuments, nightlife attractions, and more. Excursion ideas include the Osaka Castle, Universal Studios, Minami (Namba), Shitennoji Temple, and Museum of History.

Otaru: A small nostalgic canal town that once served as a major trading and fishing port in Hokkaido. It is known for its beautifully preserved buildings that have been converted from warehouses to boutiques and restaurants. Many visitors are drawn to its historical architecture and pleasant scenery. Top attractions are the Otaru Canal, Nikka Whisky Distillery, Otaru Snow Light Path, Herring Mansion, and Sakaimachi Street.

Shimizu: Famous for being one of Japan’s most scenic ports. Located in the Shizuoka area, the port is rooted in Edo Period history and importance. Shimizu is also known for its outstanding views of Mt. Fuji on clear days. Shore excursions are S-Pulse Dream Plaza, Kunozan Toshogu Shrine, Sunpu Castle Park, Shizuoka Sengen Shrine, and Miho no Matsubara.

Tokushima: Located on the Shikoku Island, best known for its annual Awa Odori dance festival. This prefecture abounds with natural wonders, surrounded by its beloved Mt. Bizan, as well the remote Iya Valley and its vine bridges. Tokushima is a go-to area for outdoor adventures. Points of interest include the Ryozen-ji Temple, Naruto Whirlpools, Otsuka Museum of Art, Tairyu-ji Temple, and Mt. Bizan.

Tokyo (Yokohama): Located at the center of Tokyo Bay, the port of Yokohama welcomes numerous cruise ships and offers an array of attractions. Shopping and tourist destinations are a short walk away, and easy transportation access to the greater Tokyo area is also available. Top attractions include the Sankeien Garden, Minato Mirai, Tokyo Tower, Sensoji Temple, and Imperial Palace.