Singapore, Tokyo and Yokohama Travel Itinerary with Diamond Princess Cruise

Late Afternoon — Marina Bay Sands SkyPark

After landing in Singapore, allow roughly 45–75 minutes for immigration, baggage collection and the journey into town. Take the MRT from Changi Airport to Bayfront via Tanah Merah, or use a taxi if you have luggage; the train takes about 40 minutes and costs around S$2, while a taxi usually takes 20–30 minutes and costs approximately S$25–35, depending on traffic and surcharges. Head first to Marina Bay Sands SkyPark for panoramic views over the city, the bay and Gardens by the Bay. Timed admission is generally required, so reserve a late-afternoon slot online and arrive 15 minutes early; allow about 1½ hours, including security and lifts.

Early Evening — Gardens by the Bay

Walk across to Gardens by the Bay using the covered link from Marina Bay Sands—about 10 minutes, with useful shelter if it is raining. Visit the Flower Dome first, then the Cloud Forest, where the huge indoor waterfall and elevated walkways are especially atmospheric as daylight fades. Allow around 2½ hours; the conservatories commonly operate into the evening, but check the official schedule because last admission and maintenance closures can vary. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a light layer, as both cooled domes are noticeably chilly compared with Singapore outdoors.

Evening — Satay, Garden Rhapsody and the Waterfront

For dinner, continue to Satay by the Bay, a relaxed open-air food centre beside the gardens. Order a mixed satay platter, grilled seafood or local favourites such as chicken rice and fried oyster omelette; budget S$15–30 per person, and keep some cash handy because individual stalls may not accept every payment method. After eating, walk to Supertree Grove for Garden Rhapsody, the free light-and-music show, usually presented at 7:45 pm and 8:45 pm; arrive 15–20 minutes early for a spot beneath the trees. Finish with a gentle stroll along the Marina Bay waterfront promenade toward the Merlion, where the skyline reflections are best after dark. The loop back toward Bayfront MRT takes about 20–30 minutes; otherwise, taxis and ride-hailing services are plentiful around Marina Bay Sands.

Morning — Chinatown’s temple quarter

Start around 9:00 at Sri Mariamman Temple, Singapore’s oldest Hindu temple on South Bridge Road. Spend about 45 minutes admiring the brightly painted gopuram and interior shrines; shoulders and knees should be covered, and shoes must be removed before entering. From there, it is a short walk to Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, which generally opens from 9:00 to 17:00. Allow an hour for the richly decorated main hall, upper-floor museum and rooftop prayer wheel. The temples are close together, so this is best explored on foot rather than by MRT; Chinatown MRT is the nearest station if you are arriving from elsewhere.

Lunch and afternoon — From Chinatown to the Civic District

Have lunch at Maxwell Food Centre, a few minutes’ walk away. Go before the busiest 12:00–13:00 rush if possible, then choose a table first and send one person to order. Expect about S$8–20 per person for chicken rice, laksa, a drink and perhaps fresh juice; bring cash, as some stalls remain cash-only. After lunch, take a taxi or walk towards the National Gallery Singapore—walking takes roughly 20 minutes, while a taxi is usually about 5–10 minutes and S$8–12 depending on traffic. Allow two hours for the Southeast Asian collection housed in the former City Hall and Supreme Court buildings. The gallery typically opens from 10:00 to 19:00, with later closing on some evenings; check the exhibition schedule before going, as special exhibitions may require separate tickets.

Late afternoon and evening — Heritage interiors and the Singapore River

Continue to Raffles Hotel, around 10–15 minutes from the gallery on foot through the Bras Basah–Bugis area. Have a look around the restored colonial complex and arcade; if you want the famous Singapore Sling at Long Bar, budget roughly S$40–50, while a simpler drink or coffee elsewhere on the property is generally S$15–40. From there, take a short taxi ride or walk about 20 minutes to Clarke Quay. Finish with a relaxed 1½-hour stroll beside the Singapore River, choosing a restaurant or dessert stop as the mood takes you. Clarke Quay is liveliest after sunset, but prices are higher than in the hawker centres, so check menus before sitting down; MRT service from Clarke Quay or Fort Canning makes an easy return to your hotel.

Morning — Tiong Bahru Market

Start around 8:30–9:00 at Tiong Bahru Market, one of the city’s best places for an easy local breakfast. From central Singapore, take the MRT to Tiong Bahru Station, then walk about 10 minutes; a taxi or Grab is more convenient if you are carrying shopping bags. Browse the wet-market stalls downstairs, then head upstairs for hawker dishes such as chwee kueh, kaya toast, fishball noodles or freshly made chee kueh. Allow about 1½ hours and budget S$6–15 per person. The market is generally busiest in the morning, so go early for the widest choice and bring cash, although some stalls accept PayNow or cards.

Late Morning — Tiong Bahru estate

After breakfast, wander through the surrounding Tiong Bahru estate, Singapore’s famous pre-war public-housing neighborhood. Follow the curved streets around Tiong Poh Road, Yong Siak Street and Guan Chuan Street, looking for the distinctive rounded balconies, spiral staircases and low-rise blocks. Independent bookstores, cafés and small design shops make this a pleasant, unhurried hour rather than a checklist stop. Wear light clothing and carry water—the shaded walk is manageable, but Singapore’s humidity builds quickly. From Tiong Bahru, take the MRT to Orchard Station or use a short Grab ride to ION Orchard; allow roughly 15–25 minutes depending on traffic.

Afternoon — Orchard Road shopping

Spend the afternoon between ION Orchard and Takashimaya Shopping Centre, the most convenient pairing on Orchard Road. Begin at ION Orchard, where the lower levels are useful for beauty products and the higher floors cover fashion, electronics and international brands; the mall usually operates from around 10:00 to 22:00. Then walk along Orchard Road to Takashimaya Shopping Centre, allowing about 10 minutes between the buildings. Its Japanese and international retailers are particularly good for gifts, stationery and household items, while the basement food hall is handy for a snack or early meal. Keep receipts for possible tourist tax-refund purchases and check the minimum spend and eTRS eligibility before paying. Together, allow about 3½ hours, with time for coffee and air-conditioning breaks.

Evening — Newton Food Centre

Finish at Newton Food Centre, about 10 minutes by MRT from Orchard on the North-South Line to Newton Station, followed by a short walk. Arrive around 18:00–18:30, before the busiest dinner period, and choose a table first—use a packet of tissues to “chope” it while ordering. Try barbecued seafood, satay, oyster omelette, carrot cake or a fresh fruit juice; expect S$15–35 per person depending on seafood and drinks. Most stalls are cash-friendly, though payment methods vary, and queues can be long at popular stands. After dinner, return from Newton Station by MRT or take a Grab directly to your hotel; allow extra time if you have shopping bags, as the centre becomes lively and crowded later in the evening.

Morning — Jewel Changi Airport

Keep your final Singapore morning easy and luggage-focused. Arrive at Jewel Changi Airport around 8:00–8:30, allowing at least three hours before your international departure. If you are staying in town, a taxi or Grab is simplest with bags; the MRT from central Singapore takes roughly 35–45 minutes, usually via Tanah Merah. Jewel is connected to Terminal 1 and linked to Terminals 2 and 3 by the free airport shuttle or covered walking routes. Store luggage at the airport’s baggage-storage counters if your bags cannot be checked through yet, and confirm your airline’s terminal before settling in.

Spend about two hours around the Rain Vortex, Shiseido Forest Valley, and the upper-level gardens. The Rain Vortex is free to view and generally operates during Jewel’s opening hours, while the indoor complex is open around 10:00–22:00; go early for quieter photographs. Then use the remaining time at Canopy Park, also on the top level. Its attractions—such as the Discovery Slides, mazes and suspended nets—are ticketed individually or through combination passes, with prices varying by attraction. Allow about an hour and wear comfortable shoes; it is a pleasant way to fill time, but not worth rushing if your bags or check-in are still unresolved.

Before Departure — Lounge and Airport Formalities

Return to your airline terminal with plenty of time for check-in. For a long-haul international flight, aim to be at the terminal three hours before departure, particularly if you need to check bags or complete document checks. After immigration and security, use the Singapore Airlines SilverKris Lounge if your ticket or frequent-flyer status qualifies; otherwise, use the lounge assigned to your airline or consider a paid lounge option. Allow roughly 90 minutes there, but keep an eye on the flight screens because Changi gates can involve a further walk and some gates have a second security check. Have your passport, boarding pass and onward Tokyo accommodation details easily accessible.

Flight and Arrival in Tokyo

On arrival at Haneda Airport, the Keikyu Airport Line is usually the most direct route toward Ginza, taking about 30–40 minutes to Higashi-Ginza; a taxi is easier with substantial luggage but costs considerably more. From Narita Airport, choose the Narita Express to Tokyo Station and continue by taxi or subway, or take the Keisei Skyliner to Ueno and transfer onward; total travel is commonly 60–90 minutes. Airport limousine buses are useful if your hotel has a designated stop and you prefer not to manage stairs. Buy or load a Suica or PASMO card where available, and avoid planning sightseeing tonight—the flight, immigration and transfer can easily make this a late arrival.

Morning — Ginza’s polished heart

After arriving in Ginza, leave your luggage at the hotel if your room is not ready, then begin at Ginza Six. Allow about 1½ hours to browse its designer boutiques, art installations and beautifully designed interiors; the rooftop garden is a worthwhile quiet break with skyline views. Most shops open around 10:30, while restaurants generally open later, so this works best after a relaxed arrival and check-in. From here, it is a pleasant five-minute walk along Chuo-dori to Kabuki-za. Admire the ornate theatre façade, then visit the Kabuki-za Gallery or browse the theatre’s specialty shops for roughly 45 minutes. Check performance and gallery hours before going, as they vary by date.

Lunch — Tsukiji’s market lanes

Walk or take a short taxi ride—about 10 minutes—to Tsukiji Outer Market. The market is liveliest before early afternoon, so avoid lingering too long in Ginza. Browse the narrow lanes of seafood vendors, kitchenware shops and small counters, then settle in for sushi or a freshly grilled tamagoyaki lunch. Budget ¥2,000–5,000 per person; small restaurants often have queues and limited seating, so choose a line that is moving steadily rather than waiting for the most famous storefront. Be considerate around working stalls, and carry cash as some smaller vendors may not accept cards.

Afternoon — Garden calm and Tokyo views

After lunch, walk about 15 minutes or take a short taxi ride to Hamarikyu Gardens in Shiodome. Spend around 1½ hours following the ponds and landscaped paths, where traditional teahouses sit against a backdrop of office towers. The garden usually closes in the early evening, with last admission about 30 minutes before closing; admission is approximately ¥300. From the nearby Shiodome area, take the Toei Oedo Line toward Akabanebashi, then walk roughly 10 minutes to Tokyo Tower. Arrive in the late afternoon for changing light over the city and allow about 1½ hours for the Main Deck; observation tickets commonly start around ¥1,200, with higher prices for additional levels. Reserve ahead if visibility is important, although cloudy weather can make the experience less rewarding.

Evening — Dinner back in Ginza

Return to the Ginza corridor dining area by subway or taxi, allowing roughly 20–30 minutes depending on connections and traffic. Choose a relaxed izakaya or yakitori restaurant on one of the side streets around Ginza 6-chome or Ginza 8-chome, rather than dining directly on the busiest avenue. Expect ¥3,000–6,000 per person for dinner and drinks. Restaurants may be compact and some charge a small seating fee, so ask “osusume wa nan desu ka?”—“What do you recommend?”—and keep the evening unhurried after the flight and sightseeing.

Morning — Meiji Jingu and Harajuku

Start around 8:00 with the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line from Ginza to Omote-sando, then walk north toward Meiji Jingu; allow about 25–30 minutes door to door. Enter through the broad forested approach from Harajuku and give yourself roughly 1½ hours to enjoy the shrine at an unhurried pace. The grounds open from early morning and are especially peaceful before the crowds arrive. Wear comfortable shoes—the gravel paths are easy but extensive—and keep voices low around the main shrine buildings. Admission is free, although the inner garden has a separate seasonal fee if you decide to add it.

Walk about 10 minutes from the shrine’s Harajuku exit to Takeshita Street for a livelier late morning. Spend about an hour browsing its colorful fashion shops, character goods and snack counters; crepes and oversized rainbow sweets are fun, though nearby side streets usually offer better-value cafés and less congestion. From Harajuku Station, take the JR Yamanote Line to Shibuya—only one stop, around 3 minutes, with a short walk to the crossing.

Afternoon — Shibuya Scramble Crossing and Shibuya Sky

Arrive in Shibuya around 12:30–13:00 and experience Shibuya Scramble Crossing from street level before exploring the surrounding lanes. For lunch, look around Shibuya Center-gai or the quieter restaurant floors near Shibuya Hikarie; allow about 45 minutes for the crossing and a casual meal. Reserve a timed entry for Shibuya Sky in advance, ideally around 14:30–15:00. The observation deck is at Shibuya Scramble Square, directly above the station, and a standard ticket is usually about ¥2,000–2,500. Allow 1½ hours, including security and elevator queues; rooftop access can close temporarily in strong winds or rain, so keep the booking confirmation handy and arrive 15–20 minutes early.

Late Afternoon and Evening — Ameya-Yokocho and Omoide Yokocho

From Shibuya Station, take the JR Yamanote Line to Ueno, around 25 minutes, then walk a few minutes to Ameya-Yokocho. This lively market street is best explored without a strict plan: browse dried seafood, snacks, cosmetics and inexpensive souvenirs, and stop for a quick drink or street food. Shops generally run from late morning into the evening, but the atmosphere is strongest from about 16:00 onward. Allow 1½ hours, keeping bags secure in the crowd. Continue on the Yamanote Line from Ueno to Shinjuku, then walk roughly 10 minutes west to Omoide Yokocho. Settle into one of the tiny yakitori or izakaya counters for dinner—expect about ¥2,500–5,000 per person, often with a small seating charge and a drink minimum. The alleyways are compact, so restaurants may not accept reservations; if one is full, simply try the next counter. After dinner, Shinjuku Station provides frequent trains back toward Ginza, usually via the Marunouchi Line or a short connection, taking about 20–30 minutes.

Morning — From Tokyo Station to the waterfront

Leave Tokyo Station around 8:00–9:00, taking the JR Tokaido or Yokosuka Line to Yokohama Station; the ride is about 27–30 minutes and costs roughly ¥490 with a Suica or PASMO. From there, a taxi is easiest with luggage, taking around 10–20 minutes to Hotel New Grand. Ask the hotel to store your bags if your room is not ready. Allow about 45 minutes to appreciate this elegant historic property, particularly its classic interiors and connection with Japan’s early Western-style cuisine. For a quick coffee, the hotel’s The Lobby is a comfortable choice.

Late Morning and Lunch — Harbor views and Chinatown

Walk directly into Yamashita Park, a pleasant waterfront promenade with broad views across Yokohama Harbor. Give yourself about an hour to stroll beneath the trees and photograph the historic Hikawa Maru, permanently moored beside the park. From here, Yokohama Chinatown is only about a 10-minute walk inland through the Chukagai East Gate. Spend up to two hours wandering among the colorful gates, small shrines, snack stalls and traditional Chinese storefronts. For lunch, Chinachu Hanten is a reliable, casual option for dim sum and noodles, while Manchinro Honten is better suited to a more leisurely multi-course meal; budget approximately ¥1,500–4,000 per person. Keep some room for steamed buns or sesame sweets from the street vendors.

Afternoon — Red-brick harbor district

Walk or take the Minatomirai Line from Motomachi-Chukagai to Bashamichi, then continue toward the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse—roughly 15–20 minutes in total. The two restored brick buildings are good for browsing local design shops, craft goods and seasonal exhibitions, with cafés and casual restaurants inside for a late lunch or drink. Plan about 1½ hours and allow ¥1,000–3,000 per person if you eat here. The open plaza and harbor edge are particularly pleasant in the late afternoon, when the light softens and the skyline begins to glow.

Evening — Ferris-wheel lights and cruise preparation

As dusk arrives, walk about 10–15 minutes through the waterfront toward Yokohama Cosmo World. The amusement park is free to enter, while individual rides are paid separately; the giant Ferris wheel, Cosmo Clock 21, is the main attraction and usually costs around ¥1,000 per person. Even if you do not ride, the illuminated wheel is excellent to photograph from the surrounding promenade. Check the park’s current operating hours before setting out, as they vary by season and weekday. Return to Hotel New Grand by taxi for convenience, especially with shopping bags, and prepare your cruise documents, luggage tags and embarkation clothing for the following morning.

Morning — Hotel New Grand to the cruise terminal

Have your luggage ready early and ask Hotel New Grand reception to arrange a taxi to Yokohama Osanbashi International Passenger Terminal at Yamashita Pier. The drive is usually only 5–10 minutes, but allow 20–30 minutes for port traffic, taxi unloading and finding the correct baggage-drop area. Keep passports, cruise documents, medication and valuables in your hand luggage; port staff will take larger bags for delivery to your cabin. Check your assigned arrival window rather than arriving very early, as terminal access can be managed in waves.

Late Morning to Early Afternoon — Diamond Princess check-in

Allow approximately 2–3 hours for baggage procedures, security, immigration and check-in before boarding Diamond Princess. Once onboard, follow the crew’s directions to your cabin or the designated waiting area; cabins and checked bags may not be available immediately. This is a good time to connect to the ship’s Wi-Fi packages, review the daily schedule and confirm your main dining assignment. Keep some Japanese yen accessible for the port area, although most onboard charges are settled through your cruise account.

Afternoon — Muster drill and sail-away

Complete the mandatory Diamond Princess muster drill as soon as it is announced, normally taking around 30–45 minutes. Afterward, head to the Lido Deck before departure for the best open-air view of Yokohama Harbor and the waterfront. Bring a light jacket—the September breeze can feel cooler at sea—and avoid carrying drinks from shore, as port security rules apply. The sail-away is an ideal unhurried moment to photograph Yamashita Pier, the harbor bridges and the city skyline.

Evening — First dinner and The Explorer’s Lounge

Attend your first dinner in the Diamond Princess main dining room, allowing roughly 1½ hours. Confirm your table, dining time and any dietary requirements with the restaurant team; a collared shirt or smart-casual outfit is a comfortable choice unless tonight’s schedule specifies formal dress. Later, settle into The Explorer’s Lounge for a drink, music or early evening entertainment. Drinks are generally charged separately, and the venue can become busier after dinner, so arriving soon after your meal gives you a better chance of finding a relaxed seat. Before turning in, check the next day’s program and place any required shore-excursion reminders in your phone.

Morning — Coffee, wellness and a quiet start

Begin at International Café aboard Diamond Princess with coffee, tea and a light breakfast. Allow about 45 minutes, checking the daily Princess Patter for opening times and which items are included on your sailing. It is a good place to ease into the day rather than rushing straight into activities; keep your cruise card with you, as it is used for onboard purchases and access.

Next, head to Lotus Spa for a treatment or a look around the wellness facilities. Allow roughly an hour, and book as early as possible because popular appointments can fill quickly on sea days. Treatments and some facilities cost extra, so confirm the price and cancellation policy before committing. Afterward, reserve time at The Sanctuary, the quieter adults-oriented deck area. Availability, age restrictions and access fees vary by sailing, so check at the spa or Guest Services; bring sunscreen, water and a light layer for the wind.

Lunch — Relaxed buffet dining

Have lunch at Lido Restaurant, where the buffet makes it easy to choose something light or return for seconds. Allow around an hour and check the ship’s daily schedule for the exact service period, since buffet stations and themed options change. Take your meal outside if weather permits, but avoid carrying hot drinks near the pool areas and remember that poolside seating can be busy after midday.

Afternoon — Casino and shipboard wandering

Spend about an hour at the Casino after checking that it is open and that gambling is permitted while the ship is outside port limits. Set a firm entertainment budget before playing—cash or onboard charges can disappear quickly—and treat it as entertainment rather than a way to fund the trip. Use the surrounding afternoon to explore the ship at an unhurried pace, read the day’s programme and confirm your evening venue; production times and dress guidance can change, particularly on formal or themed nights.

Evening — Show at Princess Theater

Arrive at Princess Theater 15–20 minutes before the scheduled production so you can find a good seat without rushing. Allow about 1½ hours for the evening entertainment, and check the Princess Patter for the exact showtime, dress recommendation and whether reservations are required. Keep your cruise card and cabin key handy, and plan a quiet walk back through the ship afterward—the theatre can empty all at once, while nearby lifts become noticeably crowded.

Morning — Breakfast and a final onboard check-in

Start at Horizon Court for breakfast, allowing about an hour to eat without rushing and review the day’s programme in the Princess app or printed daily schedule. Check disembarkation notices, venue opening times and any announcements about your onward travel. Buffet hours vary by sailing, so confirm them the night before; coffee, tea and the standard buffet are generally included.

After breakfast, head to the Fitness Center for a workout or scheduled class. A gentle session is ideal if you have travel ahead—some specialist classes and personal-training sessions cost extra, and popular activities may require sign-up. Wear proper shoes and keep valuables in your cabin rather than bringing them into the gym.

Late Morning — Fresh air and travel paperwork

Take a relaxed circuit of the Promenade Deck, enjoying the sea air before the practical business of leaving the ship. Stop at the photo gallery to check whether you want to purchase any final photographs, then return to your cabin or a quiet public area to organise passports, cruise documents, hotel details and transport confirmations. Keep essential documents in your day bag, not in luggage that will be collected.

Afternoon — Final meal and a farewell drink

For a memorable final meal, reserve Crown Grill if you would like a steakhouse experience; allow about 1½ hours, and check the Princess app for the current cover charge and reservation availability. If you prefer not to pay for specialty dining, choose the included main dining room instead. Dress neatly for dinner, as evening dress expectations can vary by sailing. Later, settle into Vines Wine Bar for a final glass or tasting before the evening entertainment. Drinks and tastings are charged separately, and it is worth checking your onboard account before ordering.

Evening — Close the account and prepare for departure

Before turning in, visit Guest Services for roughly 30 minutes to settle your account, confirm disembarkation instructions and ask where and when luggage must be placed outside your cabin. Pack a small overnight bag with medication, toiletries, travel documents, a change of clothes and anything needed the following morning; your main luggage may be collected several hours before you leave the ship. Keep your phone charged and verify the pickup or onward-journey arrangements in advance, as port disembarkation can be busiest soon after the first groups are called.