Viking Launches 15-Day Japan Discovery Cruise from Tokyo

Viking launches new Japan Discovery itinerary

Viking is heading to Japan with a brand-new 15-day Japan Discovery itinerary, sailing roundtrip from Tokyo and tracing a scenic route around the country before crossing to the southeast tip of the Korean Peninsula.

The itinerary stands out for mixing iconic stops with three ports new to Viking: Aomori, Niigata and Hakata. It also includes overnights in Tokyo and Shimizu, plus three full days at sea, creating a balanced trip that combines busy port days with room to unwind onboard.

What the itinerary includes

The new cruise begins with departures on 15 August 2028, with four sailings on offer in total: two in August and two in September. That gives travellers a short booking window for one of Viking’s most ambitious Japan itineraries to date.

Pricing starts from $12,995 per person in a Veranda stateroom for the inaugural departure, positioning it as a premium but accessible way to see Japan by sea. For travellers who want a slower, more immersive introduction to the region, this itinerary offers a compelling alternative to land-only touring.

New ports and overnight stays

The inclusion of Aomori, Niigata and Hakata is a key selling point because it gives seasoned cruisers something new to discover while adding more variety to Viking’s Japan programme. Overnights in Tokyo and Shimizu also allow for more time ashore, which is especially useful in destinations where evening atmosphere, local dining and city lights are part of the experience.

That blend of new ports, major cities and sea days should make the itinerary attractive to both first-time visitors to Japan and repeat travellers looking for a more curated journey. It also fits Viking’s broader style of destination-focused cruising, where the route is designed around learning, culture and pace rather than just ticking off ports.

Why it matters

Japan continues to be one of the most sought-after cruise destinations in Asia, and Viking’s entry into more of the country’s key ports adds another option for travellers seeking small-ship style exploration with strong itinerary depth. The route’s combination of Japan, South Korea and overnight calls gives it a more expansive feel than a standard short cruise.

For travellers planning ahead, the August and September 2028 departures offer some flexibility while still keeping the itinerary limited enough to feel exclusive. That scarcity, paired with Viking’s brand recognition, should make the voyage appealing to guests ready to lock in a future Asia holiday.

The new voyage gives travellers a deeper look at Japan’s coastline, culture and port cities, while keeping the relaxed pace Viking guests expect. You can explore the cruise line on its official website: Viking.