NYK Cruises has unveiled its early 2026 schedule for Asuka III, the first new passenger ship to be launched by the Japanese cruise line in 34 years.
The Japan-flagged vessel, which took its maiden voyage in July 2025, will embark on 17 cruises of four to 10 days’ duration between January 29 and May 2, 2026. The itineraries feature calls at seasonal beauty and wellness spots throughout Japan, including national parks and World Heritage sites, as well as at sightseeing destinations in Guam and South Korea.
All 381 guestrooms have private ocean-facing balconies and are decorated with artwork by leading Japanese artists. The ship also boasts six restaurants, a 24-hour gym, a pool, an open-air bath, work facilities and spaces for star gazing.
The ship and routes are intended to appeal to a wider range of customers, including first timers and busy professionals with limited vacation days, as part of a plan spearheaded by the Japanese government to revive Japan’s cruise market.
Asuka III is designed “to satisfy both body and mind, creating a new era of cruises”, said NYK Cruises, adding that it aims to help “develop Japan’s cruise culture”.
The company held information sessions in Nagoya and Fukuoka in late August and early September on attracting new and existing types of customers. Representatives from travel agencies including JTB Corp., HIS and Nippon Travel Agency received what NYK Cruises described as “a detailed explanation of the courses, as well as the attractions of Asuka III and how to make the most of the cruises”.
