The Port of Tokyo announced that its 2026 season has yielded positive results, with traffic expected to exceed the 83 calls Tokyo saw in 2025.

Director of Cruise Ship Promotion at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, Ikuma Okubo, said the port’s calls are expected to continue growing in 2027.

“We expect demand to remain robust, driven by the expansion of cruise deployment in the Japanese market, the growth of the industry and the introduction of new cruise ships,” Okubo said.

The port is increasingly welcoming cruise ships making repeat calls.

“The growing number indicates that we are steadily building trust with our cruise partners. These relationships are a major driver of Tokyo Port’s sustainable growth,” said Okubo.

“We actively communicate with cruise companies and seek their feedback for our facility development and operational improvements,” Okubo explained.

In 2025, the Harumi Cruise Terminal reopened after expanding its capacity to accommodate small- to medium-sized cruise ships.

And since 2026, the Celebrity Millennium has been making regular calls at the port and will be joined by the Sapphire Princess in 2027.

The port is currently exploring the development of a second berth at the Tokyo International Cruise Terminal, which would allow it to accommodate two large ships simultaneously.

“We are also leveraging digital technologies, including AI, to monitor passenger flows and improve operational efficiency,” Okubo said.

Ongoing communication is essential to understand cruise lines’ needs and operational strategies and priorities, Okubo explained, but said that adding value for all is what makes a call successful.

Doing so requires safe, smooth port operations. It is also important that passengers enjoy their stay in Tokyo and want to come back again.