Scenic cruising at Kanmon Straits
Sail through one of Japan’s most historically rich water ways. Cruises to Kanmon Strait take you between the islands of Honshu and Kyushu as your ship glides beneath the iconic Kanmon Bridge. Along the way you’ll pass twin 19th‑century lighthouses, see the narrow channel where 700+ ships daily transit and feel the pulse of a strait that helped transform Japan into an international trading hub.
Explore itineraries with cruises to Kanmon Straits
Kanmon Strait cruises often appear as part of larger Japan cruise itineraries that include calls in both Japan and Korea or move onward to other East Asian destinations. On this rare scenic cruising opportunity, you’ll get the unique experience of threading a historic channel, where modern infrastructure and maritime tradition come together like a Japanese haiku in motion.
Discover Kanmon Straits on your next cruise
Imagine your ship carving through the narrow channel while city lights of Shimonoseki and Kitakyushu flank you, and twin lighthouses guide the way. The strait’s currents made it formidable in naval history and today it offers a striking interplay of nature and industry. From the deck you’ll see merchants, ferries, tunnels, bridges and trade routes all woven into one remarkable passage.
Watch Shimonoseki light up as evening settles over the Kanmon Strait and the city comes alive.
Glide along calm blue waters in the Kanmon Straits.
A smiling family walking through the beautiful Piazza of a Princess® cruise ship.
Cut through the world’s waterways and experience the planet’s most exciting coastlines from a sea-side perspective; our fleet is your luxury-and-entertainment-packed transport to adventure.
Discover our ships
The Princess fleet brings its signature comfort, style and attention to detail into this region. The result? You get to navigate one of Japan’s most important channels without sacrificing the luxury your voyage deserves.
Step aboard any Princess® ship and discover your new favorite way to travel. Each vessel is a floating playground of flavor, comfort and top-deck experiences. Enjoy freshly prepared local dishes, Broadway-caliber entertainment, oceanview fitness and wellness studios, family programming and beds so comfortable they’ve won awards.
No two ships are identical, but they all share one mission: turn your vacation into a standing ovation.
Cruises to Kanmon Straits FAQs
*The port location is subject to change. Please check itinerary details after you book for more information.
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