This cruise gave us the opportunity to see parts of Japan we hadn’t visited. The break down of passengers would have been approx. 80% Japanese, as expected with 20% from many other nationalities. We found the cruise interesting, entertaining and a lot of fun. We do not speak Japanese and communication was not a challenge, just a lot of fun getting to know the people and their manner. Politeness was always at the forefront. We Had close contact with a number of Japanese folk, lunch with a group of 4women we met on a tour, and elderly couple who spoke some English and many others during the days/nights. The shops on board were as good or better than anything we have seen previously and I give the singers and dancers a 10 out of 10. Public rooms as always were very clean tidy and well presented. STAFF also as always were there to help with a smile and some great conversation. 10/10 for Staff/Crew. The ship, Diamond Princess was like a new ship in appearance and facilities. We did have, in our section a few toilet blockages (due to,lack of care by a passenger) whoever these were attended to immediately and cleared. Other than that the cruise was close to perfect. The weather, although often overcast was warm to hot and overall good throughout our 12 days onboard. Our Captain was friendly, very informative and a man who obviously enjoyed his job. He spoke with a degree of passion about his ship and crew and made everyone feel like part of his family.

We couldn’t have asked for a better cruise and would recommend this to anyone interested in history and culture to take a similar cruise.