Asuka Cruises recently announced its deployment plans for the Asuka II for late summer and early fall 2025, which will include a series of 20 cruises departing from Japan.

According to the company’s website, the one- to 12-night itineraries sail from Yokohama, Kobe, Kanazawa, Otaru and Hakodate from July 13 to September 23, 2025.

The cruises offer a rich lineup of summer attractions that were designed to showcase the charms of Japan, Asuka said.

With bookings set to open on Jan. 24, 2025, the deployment is highlighted by maiden calls in Gamagori in Aichi Prefecture and Matsuzaki in Nishiizu.

The itineraries will allow passengers to take part in several summer festivals around Japan, Asuka said, including the Akita Kanto Festival, the Aomori Nebuta Festival and the Awa Odori Dance.

The Asuka II will also be strategically positioned to allow guests to watch firework displays, such as the Kumano Fireworks and the Gamagori Fireworks.

After returning from its 2025 world cruise, the Asuka II kicks off its late summer and early fall schedule on July 13 with a six-day cruise to Ogasawara.

The deployment is highlighted by a 12-night cruise that sails around Japan departing from the port of Yokohama.

Sailing on Sep. 23, the itinerary features visits to seven destinations in the archipelago, including Kochi, Kagoshima, Miyazu, Sado and Muroran.

In addition to four days at sea, the cruise includes an overnight visit to Kanazawa in Ishigaki Prefecture.

Also featured is the “Happy Family Cruise” that departs from Yokohama on Aug. 1 and includes a visit to Matsuzaki.

The two-night itinerary offers family-friendly activities, as well as special fees for children aged 2 to 12, and a special babysitter service.

Asuka is set to double its fleet in 2025, with the Asuka II being joined by the new Asuka III ahead of the spring season.

Currently under construction in Germany, the new 744-guest ship is expected to offer cruises departing from Japan.