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Japan Cruises

Steeped in tradition and the harmony of ancient sites and natural wonders.

Take in all the sights of Tokyo on a cruise to Japan. As the country’s capital city, Tokyo is Japan’s leading center of business and finance yet also boasts deep roots in history. In the heart of the city, a dense forest glade shrouds visitors from the bustle and houses the Meiji Shrine, its setting symbolizing the separation of the spiritual from the worldly. Nearby, surrounded by stone walls, park area and moats, stands the Imperial Palace. With the Tokyo Tower and Mt. Fuji in view, experience the harmony of modern and ancient on a cruisetour of Japan.

Highlights of Japan Cruisetours

Embark on a magical voyage that leads you along the shores of Japan’s northernmost island, Hokkaido. Visit Nara’s impressive Todaiji Temple and the breathtaking Kasuga Taisha Shrine. Gaze out over the city from Tokyo’s Skytree Tembo Deck perched 1,148 feet. Experience the breathtaking beauty of Kyoto with stops at Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion) and Nijo Castle.

Discover the beauty of Japan

Japan is a study in contrasts: tranquil retreats of profound beauty lay just outside cities where skyscrapers soar over stunning temples and shrines. Neon-bright architecture and tranquil gardens vie for attention amid the colorful Harajuku district and traditional kimonos. As the No. 1 North American cruise line in Japan with the “Best Asia Itineraries † ,” you can be assured that Princess® will be your guide to the colors, cultures and flavors that define this exciting country.

† Porthole Magazine

Shore excursions

Experience Japanese culture with an adventure in Tokyo that celebrates tea, the art of calligraphy, and the essence of the Japanese spirit. Get off the beaten path and discover Taketomi Island, the site of a beautifully preserved, traditional Ryukyu village just off the shore of Ishigaki. In Kochi, don a helmet and headlamp and explore the cavernous natural wonder known as the Ryugado Cave, a National Natural Monument. Stroll through a 17th-century garden and survey 700 years of history at a museum devoted to Satsuma’s Shimazu clan in Kagoshima.

Photo: A Buddhist temple in Kyoto

Princess Cruises is a proud partner of the  Japan National Tourism Organization .

If you are interested in the longer Japan cruises, you’ll love Princess® Epic Voyages. Learn more about our expertly curated itineraries for your next extraordinary adventure.

Japan Cruise Departure Port

Cruise from tokyo (yokohama).

There’s probably no other city on earth that embraces the future while honoring its beloved past the way Tokyo does. From its captivating architecture to its meticulously maintained gardens, shrines and temples, Tokyo never fails to delight and inspire. Here, you can learn the miraculous legend surrounding Sensoji, Tokyo’s oldest temple; savor the perfect cup of tea during a traditional tea ceremony; or peer into steaming sulfur springs inside Japan’s famed Hakone National Park, home of Mount Fuji.

Let Your Japan Cruise Journey Begin

Lifestyle & culture.

Delight in a traditional Bunraku puppet show, recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, in Osaka. Grab a wicker basket and head to the fields for a hands-on tea-picking adventure in the countryside of Shimizu. Discover the health benefits and social atmosphere of an “onsen” hot spring bath in Aomori. Tour Kagoshima’s shochu factory and learn how grains and vegetables create one of Japan’s spirited elixirs.

Photo: Ashiyu Foot Bath at Japanese Hot Springs in Tokyo

Natural wonders & landscapes

Be dazzled by the panoramic views of Japan's iconic Mount Fuji, an active volcano and the most popular tourist site in the country. Admire the spectacular views of Akita’s Oga peninsula, home of Godzilla Rock and mythical creatures called “Namahage.” Take in the sheer magnificence of Shiretoko Peninsula, an acclaimed  Condé Nast Traveler  7 Cruise Wonders of the World – it may just leave you breathless.

Photo: Mount Fuji

Festivals and unique experiences

Japan is a land of festivals and on select sailings you can experience the mesmerizing spectacle known as the Awa Odori Dance Festival in Tokushima, gaze in awe at the Kumano Grand Festival of fireworks, or get an up-close look at the exquisite parade floats used in Aomori’s annual Nebuta festival.

Photo: Nebuta Festival in Aomori

Onboard enrichment on Japan cruises

The journey is as extraordinary as the destination when you travel to Japan with Princess® – awarded "Best Cruise Line in Asia." From the time you step on board a Japan cruise, you’ll be surrounded by a wide variety of Japanese sights, sounds and flavors. Delight in the 400-year-old tradition of comic storytelling known as “rakugo.” Join in an evening of karaoke and watch folkloric dancers bring Japanese culture to life. Watch Japanese-inspired films with Movies Under the Stars®. Indulge in delicious regional dishes from the Noodle Bar or freshly prepared sushi. Sample spirited drinks such as fine Japanese whiskeys, sake and shochu. †

Photo: Japanese singers entertain on board

† Available on select itineraries.

Landmarks & Cultural Masterpieces

Explore Kochi Castle, a designated Japanese National Treasure, and the only castle in the country with its original wooded interior, castle tower, and impressive entrance still intact. Step into Japan’s ancient past with a tour of Aomori’s Sannai-Maruyama ruins, which date back 5,500 years and are designated a Special National Historical Site. Get a bird’s-eye view of Tokyo and Mount Fuji from the special observatory atop Tokyo Tower. Wander through the narrow, winding streets of Kanazawa’s samurai district known as Nagamachi Samurai House Row, which sits at the foot of Kanazawa Castle.

Photo: Otori Gate in Hiroshima

Art & museums

Admire the delicate work of 19th century "ukiyo-e," traditional woodblock prints, with a tour of Shimizu's Tokaido Hiroshige Art Museum. Continue your artistic journey as modern bronze statues depicting the spirit monsters known as "yokai,' greet you along the streets of Sakaiminato.

Photo: Traditional Japanese 'ukiyo-e' woodblock painting

UNESCO world heritage sites

The Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto (Kyoto, Uji, and Otsu Cities) is comprised of 17 locations in Japan within Kyoto and vicinity; including 13 Buddhist temples, 3 Shinto Shrines and one castle. The Hiroshima Peace Memorial (Genbaku Dome) is the only structure that survived the first atomic bomb (8/6/45), it has been preserved in the same state as immediately after the bombing. Nara (30 minutes from downtown Osaka) is home to 8 UNESCO sites, many conveniently located in the city center.

Photo: The Golden Pavilion in Kyoto, Japan

Japan Cruise Travel Articles

A cruise to Japan will unveil the world's oldest cultures and most modern metropolises, featuring intricate designs and sweeping vistas.

Explore Tokyo's Gardens on a Cruise to Japan

Hidden within the radiant lights and exhilarating sounds of Tokyo are tranquil garden sanctuaries. Put one on your must-see list when you cruise to Japan.

Planning a Japan Vacation: Three Must-See Cultural Attractions

Planning a Japan vacation? Put these three must-see attractions on your itinerary as you cruise Japan.

Meaningful Experiences on Japan Cruises: Discover the History of Japan Through Its Majestic Architecture

Japan cruises will afford you a unique look into Japanese culture with visits to famous national treasures such as the Golden Pavilion and Nijo Castle.

3 South Korean Temples to Visit on a Korea and Japan Cruise

Enjoy the tranquility that surrounds these three famous South Korean temples on your next Japan cruise to Korea.

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Tokyo, Japan

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Like so many important port towns, Edo started off as a sleepy fishing village. This one, however, surprisingly grew up to become Japan’s capital, the biggest metro area on earth… and was later renamed “Tokyo.” For decades now it’s felt a bit like it’s living in the future… and you can probably say it is, with all the tech and neon and energy that flows throughout iconic neighborhoods like Akihabra and Shibuya. But with all the upgrades installed, Tokyo’s traditional culture hasn’t been replaced, best seen through the residential neighborhoods of narrow streets lined with traditional homes. And that’s not to mention the green spaces, like the city’s ample national parks, gardens, shrines and temples. Some can’t-miss spots are Imperial Palace Plaza in the city center, Tokyo Tower — which tops even the Eiffel Tower — plus the imposing Mount Fuji is always happy to join the city’s skyline for a photo.

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JAPAN CRUISES

A cruise around Japan will introduce you to the thousand nuances of this land with an ancient heart but with its gaze constantly turned towards the future.

A journey to the land of the rising sun

Beautiful colours, and tempting flavours.

Have you ever wondered how many islands there are in Japan? Almost 7,000, each boasting a range of magnificent landscapes, from the snow-capped peak of the sacred Mount Fuji to the vibrant fields during cherry blossom season, from the tropical coastlines of the Okinawa   archipelago to the many thrilling cities waiting to be explored. With MSC Cruises, you can truly savor the myriad colors, flavors, and scents of this country, choosing from unmissable itineraries that will introduce you to the land of the Rising Sun in ways you never could have imagined. From cruises around Japan, taking you from Tokyo   to the northern island of Hokkaido and down to the southern island of Kyūshū , to journeys towards the azure seas and white beaches of Ishigaki island, our Japan cruises will be your gateway to a world of unparalleled surprises, where the colors of this extraordinary land will leave you in awe.

Best Japan cruises 2024 - 2025

Japan is much more than a land to explore, it's a feeling where contrasts bind together in a surprising embrace, where the age-old wisdom of Zen and stories of heroic samurai blend with the vibrant culture of manga , anime and the latest musical stars of J-pop . If you are hungry for culture and adventure, choose an MSC Cruise to Japan which will also open the door for you to explore other Far Eastern countries such as China , the Republic of Korea and Taiwan (China) for a remarkable journey that will continue to surprise and delight long after you return.

Embark on your cruise to the Far East, setting sail from the dynamic metropolis of Tokyo , with the vibrant energy of Shibuya and the culinary delights of the renowned Tsukiji Fish Market. You will be mesmerized by the modern architecture of Pudong, and the classical Yuyuan Garden of Shanghai .  Be enchanted from the volcanic landscapes of Hallasan National Park and the unique culture of Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak of Gangjeong and marvel at the active volcano Sakurajima and the Sengan-en Garden of Kagoshima .  Be fascinated by the iconic Kochi Castle and the Chikurin-ji Temple of Kochi   and explore the futuristic Minato Mirai district and stunning views of Mount Fuji in Yokohama .

Departing from Yokohama you will have the possibility to visit Keelung ,  the gateway to Taipei, exploring the historic streets of Jiufen, marvel at the impressive National Palace Museum, and savor local delicacies at the Shilin Night Market. In Ishigaki ,  relax on the sandy shores of Kabira Bay, explore the vibrant streets of Ishigaki City, and discover the lush landscapes of Tamatorizaki Observatory. While in Naha , the vibrant capital of Okinawa, dive into the rich history of Shuri Castle, strolling through the bustling Kokusai Street, and unwinding at the peaceful Shikinaen Garden.

For a longer adventure, choose a stunning cruise from Tokyo , with a circumnavigation of Japan and one stop in Korea. The new destinations not explored in the previous itineraries are Muroran    surrounded by scenic mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Sakata   with the well-preserved Samurai District and the charming Sankyo Warehouse, Kanazawa   known for its rich cultural heritage and the historic Kenrokuen Garden. Busan   takes you to the historic Beomeosa Temple and the Gamcheon Culture Village, Yatsushiro beckons with the visit to the picturesque Yatsushiro Castle and the Yatsushiro Traditional Craft Village. While in Osaka , visit the historic Osaka Castle and the Dotonbori district.

JAPAN ports

Find soulful energy and soothing serenity in these lands of contrast, where turquoise waters and landscapes of profound beauty alternate with amazing ancient wonders or the buzz of city living. Whether you choose to set sail from Tokyo or Yokohama , MSC Cruises' itineraries in Japan will immerse you in the very best this remarkable country has to offer.

TOKYO CRUISES

Tokyo, Japan’s vibrant capital, seamlessly blends modern technology with ancient sites, showcased by the awe-inspiring Asakusa Buddhist temple and the Meiji Shinto shrine. Departing from Tokyo, you can embark on a cruise circumnavigating Japan, making your way to Muroran in Hokkaido, the northernmost island of Japan, before heading down to Kanazawa .  Here, you'll have the opportunity to visit Shirakawa-go and its famed traditional houses known as "Gassho-zukuri," which have been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Reach the Republic of Korea with a trip to Busan , where you can indulge in a shopping spree at the Shinsegae Centum City Department Store, the world's largest shopping centre. When visiting Osaka , make sure to discover the stunning Himeji Castle, a renowned ancient stronghold that stands as one of Japan’s main historical monuments, or take a moment to immerse yourself in the tranquil splendor of the Tōdai-ji Buddhist temple.

NAHA (OKINAWA) CRUISES  

Experience a different side of Japan! Immerse yourself in the warm sea breeze and the lush tropical nature of the southern Japanese islands with MSC Cruises itineraries departing from Naha. Explore the natural grandeur of Miyako Island or the coral beaches of Ishigaki , and reach Kabira Bay, renowned for black pearl farming, and even reach the charming island of Taipei. Immerse yourself in a holiday of crystal-clear seas, tropical beaches, and stunning sunsets! From Naha, you can also reach China with departures to Shanghai . Choose your cruise from Naha and discover a sea of emotions.

YOKOHAMA CRUISES  

With a cruise from Yokohama, you will set sail to discover some of the most iconic destinations in Japan. In Kobe    reach Mount Rokko for a breathtaking panoramic view of the city or opt for an MSC excursion to explore the magnificent Himeji and Engyoji castles. While in Kagoshima, marvel at the Sakurajima volcano, one of Japan's most famous natural landmarks.

Cruises departing from Yokohama also reach Jeju Island in the Republic of South Korea, dominated by Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak), a stunning volcanic crater overlooking the ocean and UNESCO World Heritage site. Alternatively, make your way to the enchanting Okinawa archipelago and dive into the tropical waters of Naha   and Ishigaki , all the way to Taipei.

VIEW ALL JAPAN PORTS

• Fukuoka (Hakata), Japan
• Ishigaki, Japan
• Kagoshima, Japan
• Kanazawa, Japan
• Kobe, Japan
• Kochi, Japan
• Miyako, Japan
• Muroran, Japan
• Naha (Okinawa), Japan
• Osaka, Japan
• Sakata/Yamagata, Japan
• Sasebo, Japan
• Sendai, Japan
• Shimonoseki, Japan
• Tokyo, Japan
• Yatsushiro/Kumamoto, Japan
• Yokohama (Tokyo), Japan

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Exploring Japan has never been easier. With a wide variety of itineraries, our Cruises to Japan give you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture and beauty of the Land of the Rising Sun. Our shorter Highlights of Japan itineraries are packed with must-see ports such as Kyoto and Beppu. Looking for a longer adventure? Our Immersive Japan cruises will take you from the snowy peaks of Mt. Fuji to the unbelievable beaches of Ishigaki Island. Experience all of the beauty, history and mystery of East Asia on a once-in-a-lifetime cruise you’ll never forget.

Savvy travelers know to plan their Japan vacation around the autumn time. The changing of the seasons is a sight to behold: imagine walking the traditional Japanese gardens covered in picturesque autumn hues, as comfortable breezes envelop you. Our fall cruises to Japan will give you the best chance to see Momiji-gari , hunting red leaves.

Our cruises to Japan have been designed to provide you with as much time to explore onshore as possible. With an overnight stay in Kyoto , you will have plenty of time to uncover “Old Japan” – including the Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine, the Golden Pavilion, and Nijo Castle. Our longer cruises to Japan also feature additional overnight stays in Tokyo.

Two captivating countries in one magnificent cruise. Set sail aboard Norwegian Spirit for the East Asia vacation of a lifetime, departing from Tokyo and Hong Kong. These itineraries combine port stops in the most popular cities of Japan and China. This means that you can experience a traditional tea ceremony in Kyoto one day, and the Great Wall of China a couple of port stops later!

Remarkable Port Cities Cruises to Japan

Cruises to Tokyo

Cruises to Kyoto

Cruises to Sapporo

Cruises to Mount Fuji

Delightful shore excursions cruises to japan.

Discover More of Japan with a Shore Excursion

We know the destinations you'll be visiting and what there is to see, do and experience. We offer a variety of pre-planned excursions to choose from to give you the most relaxing but engaging vacation experience possible. Walk through historic Kyoto with an expert guide, or enjoy a scenic drive that will take you to the best spot to admire and photograph Mt. Fuji.

Uncover Hidden Gems Cruises to Japan

The Beaches of Ishigaki

Discover this remote and picturesque island's lush mountains, dense jungles, stunning beaches, and magnificent coral reef. Enjoy fantastic snorkeling or delve into the rich history of the southernmost city of Japan.

Beppu's Hot Springs

Beppu is renowned for its invigorating and relaxing hot spring experiences, mud and sand baths. Not to miss: Jigoku meguri (hell circuit) are a group of hot springs, only meant for admiring.

We'll keep you entertained day and night with exciting nightclubs, award-winning restaurants, a variety of bars and lounges, a grand casino, swimming pools, a pampering spa and so much more.

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A powerful quake hits off Japan’s coast, causing minor injuries but prompting new concerns

A tsunami warning was triggered after a powerful earthquake struck off Japan’s southern coast. The Japan Meteorological Agency said the quake registered magnitude 7.1 and was centered in waters off the eastern coast of Japan’s southern main island of Kyushu at a depth of about 30 kilometers (18.6 miles).

People take shelter outside building following an earthquake in Miyazaki, western Japan, Thursday, Aug. 8, 2024.(Kyodo News via AP)

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Visitors to the Peace Park crouch as an earthquake alert was issued in Nagasaki, western Japan, Thursday, Aug. 8, 2024.(Kyodo News via AP)

Police stand outside a damaged building following an earthquake in Miyazaki, western Japan, Thursday, Aug. 8, 2024.(Kyodo News via AP)

TOKYO (AP) — A powerful earthquake struck off southern Japan on Thursday, causing mostly minor injuries but raising the level of concern over possible major quakes stemming from an undersea trough east of the coast.

Officials said nine people were injured on Japan’s southern main island of Kyushu, but the injuries were mostly minor, there were no reports of serious damage and tsunami advisories for the quake were later lifted.

However, the quake prompted seismologists to hold an emergency meeting in which they reassessed and raised the level of risk of major quakes associated with the Nankai Trough east of southern Japan.

The Japan Meteorological Agency said that Thursday’s quake registered magnitude 7.1 and was centered in waters off the eastern coast of Kyushu at a depth of about 30 kilometers (about 19 miles) below sea surface.

The quake most strongly shook Nichinan city and nearby areas in Miyazaki prefecture on Kyushu island.

The agency said tsunami waves of up to 50 centimeters (1.6 feet) were detected along parts of Kyushu’s southern coast and the nearby island of Shikoku about a half hour after the quake struck. Tsunami advisories were issued, but lifted for most areas three hours later, and for all remaining coastlines five and a half hours later.

Seismologists at the agency held an emergency meeting to analyze whether the quake had affected the nearby Nankai Trough, the source of past devastating earthquakes. They later issued an assessment that the potential for a future quake in the area from Kyushu to central Japan is higher than previously predicted. The agency said it will continue to closely watch movements of plates near the Nankai Trough.

That does not mean there’s an imminent danger of a big quake in the near future, but they urged residents on the coasts along the trough — which spans about 500 kilometers (310 miles) — to review their quake preparedness, University of Tokyo seismologist Naoshi Hirata, a member of an expert panel, told a joint news conference with JMA officials.

There is a 70-80% chance of a magnitude 8 or 9 quake stemming from the Nankai Trough within the next 30 years, Hirata said, adding that Thursday’s quake raises that probability even while the timing or exact location cannot be predicted. He urged residents to keep their caution levels high for a week for the time being.

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida told reporters that the government crisis management team was to step up disaster preparedness, and called on residents to pay close attention to information from the authorities in case of another big one and never to spread disinformation.

The Fire and Disaster Management Agency said nine people were injured, most of them slightly when falling down or hit by objects in Thursday’s quake in Miyazaki and neighboring Kagoshima.

Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi said officials were assessing possible injuries or serious damage, though none were immediately reported. He urged residents of the affected region to stay away from the coastline.

JMA Seismology Department official Shigeki Aoki warned that strong aftershocks could occur for about a week.

Japan’s NHK public television said windows were broken at the Miyazaki airport near the epicenter. The airport’s runway was temporarily closed for safety checks.

Kyushu “shinkansen” super-express trains returned to normal operations after temporary safety checks, but a number of local train lines in the quake-hit areas were to be suspended through Friday, according to Kyushu Railway Co.

NHK showed dozens of people gathering at a designated hilltop evacuation area.

In Osaki in neighboring Kagoshima prefecture, concrete walls collapsed and a wooden house was damaged, but no injuries were reported.

The Nuclear Regulation Authority said all 12 nuclear reactors, including three that are currently operating, on Kyushu and Shikoku remained safe.

Earthquakes in areas with nuclear power plants have been a major concern since a massive earthquake and tsunami in March 2011 triggered the Fukushima nuclear disaster.

Japan sits on the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” a line of seismic faults encircling the Pacific Ocean, and is one of the world’s most earthquake-prone countries.

An earthquake on Jan. 1 in Japan’s north-central region of Noto left more than 240 people dead.

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Paris closes out Olympics with star-studded show, featuring Tom Cruise

Setting out to prove that topping Paris isn’t mission impossible, Los Angeles rolled out a skydiving Tom Cruise, Grammy winner Billie Eilish and other stars on Sunday as it took over Olympic hosting duties for 2028 from the French capital, which closed out its 2024 Games just as they started — with joy and panache.

The closing ceremony capped two and a half extraordinary  weeks of Olympic sports and emotion  with a boisterous, star-studded show in France’s national stadium, mixing unbridled celebration with a somber call for peace from IOC President Thomas Bach.

Following in Paris' footsteps promises to be a challenge: It made spectacular use of its cityscape for its first Games in 100 years, with the Eiffel Tower and other  iconic monuments becoming Olympic stars  in their own right as they served as backdrops and venues for medal-winning feats.

But the City of Angeles showed that it, too, has aces up its sleeves, like the City of Light.

Cruise — in his Ethan Hunt persona — wowed by descending from the top of the stadium to electric guitar “Mission Impossible” riffs. Once his feet were back on the ground — and after shaking hands with enthralled athletes — he took the Olympic flag from star gymnast Simone Biles, fixed it to the back of a motorcycle and roared out of the arena.

The appetite-whetting message was clear: Los Angeles 2028 promises to be an eye-opener, too.

Still, this was largely Paris' night — its opportunity for one final party. And what a party it was.

“These were sensational Olympic Games from start to finish," Bach said.

Having announced his intention to leave office next year, Bach also struck a more somber note as he appealed for ”a culture of peace” in a war-torn world.

“We know that the Olympic Games cannot create peace, but the Olympic Games can create a culture of peace that inspires the world,” he said. “Let us live this culture of peace every single day.”

Then came another change of gear, courtesy of Cruise.

In a prerecorded segment after being lowered on a rope live from the roof's giddy heights, Cruise drove his bike past the Eiffel Tower, onto a plane and then skydived over the Hollywood Hills. Three circles were added to the O's of the famed Hollywood sign to create five interlaced Olympic rings.

The thousands of athletes who danced and sang the night away cheered it — and the artistic show that celebrated Olympic themes, complete with firework flourishes.

Their enthusiasm bubbled over when crowds of them rushed the stage at one point. Stadium announcements in French and English urged them to double back. Some stayed, creating an impromptu mosh pit around Grammy-winning French pop-rock band Phoenix as they played, before security and volunteers cleared the stage.

Multiple time zones away, Eilish, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, rapper Snoop Dogg — wearing pants with the Olympic rings after being a popular mainstay at the Paris Games — along with his longtime collaborator Dr. Dre kept the party going with performances on Los Angeles' Venice Beach.

Each is a California native, including  H.E.R., who sang the U.S. national anthem  live at the Stade de France, crammed with more than 70,000 people.

At the start of the show, the stadium crowd roared as  French swimmer Léon Marchand , dressed in a suit and tie instead of the swim trunks he wore to win four golds, was shown on the giant screens collecting the Olympic flame from the Tuileries Gardens in Paris.

To spectators' loud chants of "Léon, Léon," Marchand then reappeared at the end of the show, blowing out the flame. Paris Games were over.

But they'll be back.

“I call upon the youth of the world to assemble four years from now in Los Angeles," Bach declared.

As a delicate pink sunset gave way to night, athletes first marched into the stadium waving the flags of their 205 countries and territories — a display of global unity in a world gripped by global tensions and conflicts, including those in Ukraine and Gaza. The stadium screens carried the words, “Together, united for peace.”

With the 329 medal events finished, the expected 9,000 athletes — many wearing their shiny medals — and team staffers filled the arena, dancing and cheering to thumping beats.

Unlike in Tokyo in 2021, where the Games were pushed back a year by the COVID-19 pandemic and largely stripped of fans, athletes and the more than 70,000 spectators at the Paris arena celebrated with abandon, singing together as Queen’s anthem “We Are the Champions” blared. Multiple French athletes crowd-surfed. U.S. team members jumped up and down in their Ralph Lauren jackets.

The national stadium, France's largest, was one of the targets of  Islamic State gunmen and suicide bombers  who killed 130 people in and around Paris on Nov. 13, 2015. The joy and celebrations that swept Paris during the Games as  Marchand  and other French athletes racked up 64 medals — 16 of them gold — marked a major watershed in the city's recovery from that night of terror.

The closing ceremony saw the awarding of the last medals — each  embedded with a chunk of the Eiffel Tower . Fittingly for the first Olympics that  aimed for gender parity , they all went to women — the gold, silver and bronze medalists from the  women’s marathon  earlier Sunday.

The women's marathon took the spot of the men’s race that traditionally closed out previous Games. The switch was part of efforts in Paris to make the Olympic spotlight shine more brightly on the sporting feats of women. Paris was also where women first made their Olympic debut, at the Games of 1900.

The U.S. team again topped  the medal table , with 126 in all and 40 of them gold. Three were courtesy of  gymnast Simone Biles , who made a resounding return to the top of the Olympic podium after prioritizing her mental health instead of competition in Tokyo in 2021.

Unlike Paris' rain-drenched but exuberant opening ceremony that played out along the Seine River in the heart of city, the closing ceremony’s artistic portion took a more sober approach, with space-age and Olympic themes.

A golden-shrouded figure dropped spider-like from the skies into a darkened world of smoke and swirling stars. Olympic symbols were celebrated, including the flag of Greece, birthplace of the ancient Games, and the five interlaced Olympic rings, lit up in white in the arena where tens of thousands of lights glittered like fireflies.

AP reporters Noreen Nasir, Stephen Whyno, Tom Nouvian, Thomas Adamson and Megan Janetsky contributed from Paris.

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44 Comments Login to comment

PTownsend Today 06:44 am JST

The French capital made spectacular use of its cityscape for its first Games in 100 years.

The above is so true: watching the events while seeing the Paris cityscape made the TV experience even better. Bravo Paris!

TaiwanIsNotChina Today 07:03 am JST

Congrats to Paris and France for fantastic Olympics!!!

Japantime Today 07:18 am JST

Well done. The biggest star of the show was Team Japan with all off the medals they won. They are the talk of the town in Paris. For a smaller country with a smaller population, they won medals in every type of event.

nonu6976 Today 07:18 am JST

Thank goodness it’s over.

bass4funk Today 07:27 am JST

Nonu6976 today 07:27 am jst.

You can be proud of Japans efforts without being delusional. There are many other countries that per capita that did far better than Japan. Australia and NZ for example are just 2.

Hawk Today 07:32 am JST

I came for Tom Cruise, I stayed for Tom Cruise.

I've thoroughly enjoyed these Olympic Games. Paris (and Tahiti) did a spectacular job staging the event smoothly and safely.

Also, it was great to be able to see all events live or via replay on NHK and TVer. Free in TVer's case (or NHK if you don't pay your fee I guess).

LA, the ball's in your court.

Hawk Today 07:33 am JST

^oh, and congratulations to all the athletes; medalists and otherwise.

kurisupisu Today 07:41 am JST

Jolly and his team repeatedly insisted that was never their intention and got backing from Macron, who described himself as “outraged and sad” by the backlash against them.

What was their intention?

Was it to show male genitalia to a worldwide audience?

Because that happened…

Peter14 Today 07:53 am JST

Paris 2024 is going to be hard to follow. No doubt one of the best games ever held.

I enjoyed the many events immensely and the sportsmanship between athletes was inspirational. Wish I was there for the party, they will all be enjoying this dream that has been Paris 2024.

So sad its all over. I feel like I lost a new found friend.

PTownsend Today 07:55 am JST

backlash against them.

How much of that backlash came from pro-Russian Federation backers and religious extremists, the latter with almost no understanding of classic western and actual religious history, instead once again imagining an alternative reality as told to them by their Internet influencers and podcast pundits?

Fighto! Today 07:58 am JST

Kurisupisu -

What was their intention? Was it to show male genitalia to a worldwide audience? Because that happened…

You still "shocked and outraged" after two weeks? Might just be time to move on.

Well done Paris - it was a very successful games held with French flair. Lots of great moments.

Some dude Today 08:12 am JST

"Portions of the opening ceremony were assailed by former U.S. President Donald Trump, French bishops and others who felt they poked fun at Christianity".

Mission accomplished.

lostrune2 Today 08:22 am JST

Despite all the naysayers, the Paris Olympics turned out alright

And nothing bad happened. There was no fiasco

kohakuebisu Today 08:24 am JST

A member of NWA representing the USA at the Olympics. I wouldn't have predicted that 30 years ago.

GBR48 Today 08:42 am JST

I enjoyed it - aside from the VAW class in the boxing. They really need to fix that. And for the sports that are included for the kids, like skateboarding and breakdancing: make sure Olympic Committees get the message and look for talent in the right places. No breakdancing in LA - its spiritual home, but cricket will be included!

Including a bit of the Eiffel Tower in the medals was a great idea. And despite much fearmongering, it passed off without any aggro. They include 'Imagine' in all Olympics. I hope they make Queen's 'We are the Champions' a permanent fixture too.

The ceremonies were a bit long and opaque in parts, the Seine was a bit polluted, events started a bit late and the screen info was a bit slow (and sometimes wrong, at the rather low-rent Roland-Garros). The Last Supper tableau (instantly recognisable) was fun and irreverent. In short, it was all very French. They did it their way. Plus the backdrop was gorgeous.

Anything that annoys Trump is OK by me. Drag is an important part of British culture, particularly pantos at Christmas, which kids here enjoy. We're not the weird ones, Donald.

Japan is still reaping the rewards from the host city bounce, now without the abuse they were getting at the Tokyo games over the bill. A very impressive medal haul.

Roll on the paras, 28 August - 8 September. Don't miss the wheelchair basketball.

factchecker Today 08:47 am JST

The expensive, grandiose school sports carnival is over again for another 4 years. Congratulations.

kohakuebisu Today 09:08 am JST

I hope they make Queen's 'We are the Champions' a permanent fixture too.

Please no. Aside from this being cliched, the sentiment of "no time for losers" has no place in actual sports.

Jimizo Today 09:17 am JST

I hope they make Queen's 'We are the Champions' a permanent fixture too Please no. Aside from this being cliched, the sentiment of "no time for losers" has no place in actual sports

Good point.

Also, in a competition which awards medals for 2nd and 3rd, ‘no time for losers’ doesn’t make much sense.

Some dude Today 09:20 am JST

"Without you there? Deal!" responded the youth of the world.

Mr Kipling Today 09:37 am JST

China really rose to the occasion. Not just in the medal haul but in the way their athletes showed their personality. The girl biting the medal after watching the others on the podium was cute, the badminton player who took a Spanish badge onto the podium to honor her opponent who had to retire injured and best of all the diver Quan Hongchan who was a comic blast every chance she got.

ian Today 09:47 am JST

Sounds it went well generally.

I just feel bad for the gymnast who was barred from competing

Fighto! Today 09:52 am JST

China really rose to the occasion. Not just in the medal haul but in the way their athletes showed their personality. The girl biting the medal after watching the others on the podium was cute

An athlete biting a medal?

Heartwarming and groundbreaking stuff that.

Jimizo Today 09:56 am JST

An athlete biting a medal? Heartwarming and groundbreaking stuff that

Don’t be so bitter about athletes from countries you don’t like. Unsportsmanlike.

Just enjoy the world’s jaws dropping at Japan’s success with 122 million dancing in the streets enjoying delicious Asahi Super Dry ;)

YeahRight Today 10:04 am JST

Burning Bush Today 10:18 am JST

On the whole, I felt the same but Me and the missus enjoyed the break dancing very much.

When we was dating back in 1984 we went to the see Ghostbuster's. Kids were doing head spins in the cine-theatre before the film started. We was impressed by the athleticism then. About time it went Olympic even if only for 2024.

browny1 Today 10:54 am JST

Re We are the Champions and No time for losers comments -

Every Olympic athlete is a champion. The struggle and striving beyond us mere mortals imaginations, to just make it assures they are all winners.

2nd; 3rd; 4th; ......places are not losers.

Not in the sense of what they have accomplished.

Most athletes are over the moon at having the chance to compete and so many are thrilled with their silver and bronze medals or even making the semis or finals.

The media esp likes to play up only the winners ie gold medalists - but all are the Champions of the World.

My biggest downer of the games was the lack of widespread coverage and highlights and replays of the sensational surfing in Tahiti. Just surfing those monster waves showed insane athleticism, skill and daring.

How many people know of 15-year-old Chinese surfer Siqi Yang who had to beat over 100 competitors in the ISA 2024 world surfing games to make the Olympic cut. And there she was doing it on those waves. Didn't progress - but what a winner.

All of the athletes are winners.

owzer Today 11:01 am JST

I came for Tom Cruise

Please! Get a room!

Burning Bush Today 11:10 am JST

I enjoyed Tom in Last Samurai. And Billy Connolly, too

garypen Today 11:26 am JST

Wouldn't it be funny if they actually do make fun of the Last Supper painting for the closing?

TokyoLiving Today 11:31 am JST

In the past Olympics the US beat China by only one gold, in these Olympics they tied with 40 gold each..

China is increasingly a big difficult for the US to defeat, it is very likely that China will beat the US in gold in the next Olympics and on its own ground..

But if we add the 2 golds from Taiwan and 2 from HK, that's 4 more golds for China..

Technically China won the Paris 2024 Olympics..

TokyoLiving Today 11:33 am JST

But if we add the 2 golds from Taiwan and 2 from HK, that's 4 more golds for China.. Technically China won the Paris 2024 Olympics..

TaiwanIsChina reactions...

https://media1.tenor.com/m/lirAMlHkR5YAAAAC/tantrum-throwing-a-fit.gif

rcch Today 11:37 am JST

Can’t wait for Los Angeles . ( This excitement is part of the reason why the closing ceremony was better and we had some great moments… )

These Summer Games will be known as the DEI Olympics which is far from being a good thing—last time I checked, the Olympics are older than this DEI nonsense, and the Olympic message was always about diversity, unity and peace—some pathetic, ridiculous, confusing, controversial moments, not to mention the horrible conditions in the Olympic village and what the athletes faced daily ( thefts, no food, no ACs, etcetera ) but you’re lucky, Paris, because at the end of the day, it’s all about the game/sports.

On a scale of 1 to 10 , I give the organizers/Paris a 2 . As for the medalists and all the athletes, congratulations/good job! See you in LA!

ClippetyClop Today 11:39 am JST

These Summer Games will be known as the DEI Olympics

Do you think the thousands of athletes, millions of spectators, hundreds of millions of TV viewers would agree with you?

Is your life in such a poor state that you despise something that gives great pleasure to these people?

Christopher Today 11:42 am JST

Phenomenal! Wonderous! For the US!. Many medals and dominate. And great sportsmanship by all others.

Jimizo Today 11:44 am JST

These Summer Games will be known as the  DEI Olympics

Among whom?

People who watch the same podcasts and follow the same Twitter accounts as you?

Jimizo Today 11:47 am JST

Phenomenal! Wonderous! For the US!. Many medals and dominate. And great sportsmanship by all others

So the US team didn’t show great sportsmanship?

TokyoLiving Today 11:48 am JST

Clown world..

Thank goodness I didn't waste my time watching such stupidity...

TokyoLiving Today 11:50 am JST

In fact, I saw absolutely nothing of these decadent Olympic games, the most pathetic in history...

Now it's over, and we will continue living this world of farce, back to the clownish reality..

Jimizo Today 11:55 am JST

Surprising.

You usually offer a very mature and balanced view of things weighing up the good and bad.

tora Today 12:11 pm JST

Wait, did I just read that Tom Cruise roared off on a traditional motorbike with the Olympic flag attached? Pretty sure that goes against the IOC agenda.

Tom: better to just keep on driving bro.

tora Today 12:12 pm JST

Dear Mod: Driving = riding :)

Mark Today 12:16 pm JST

finally it is over, serious it is the worst Olympic i had seen. The best thing is next time we will be in America!! this will be the best part in Olympic ever！

TaiwanIsNotChina Today 12:23 pm JST

Imagine downvoting "Congrats to Paris and France for fantastic Olympics!!!". Must be the people that didn't get an Olympics.

Norm Today 12:24 pm JST

TaiwanIsChina reactions.. https://media1.tenor.com/m/lirAMlHkR5YAAAAC/tantrum-throwing-a-fit.gif LOOOOOOOOL

Thanks for the GIF reminder of one judoka’s response to losing.

TaiwanIsNotChina Today 12:26 pm JST

TokyoLivingToday 11:33 am JST But if we add the 2 golds from Taiwan and 2 from HK, that's 4 more golds for China.. Technically China won the Paris 2024 Olympics.. TaiwanIsChina reactions... https://media1.tenor.com/m/lirAMlHkR5YAAAAC/tantrum-throwing-a-fit.gif LOOOOOOOOL

I don't think about you, so I would ask that you stop thinking about me.

Do you think China will get 4x the golds in the next Olympics to match the US per capita?

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Tom Cruise hands Olympic flag to L.A., closing Paris Games

By Rory Carroll / Reuters

Today • Last updated 4:41 p.m.

Sports Wire Summer Olympics

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REUTERS/TINGSHU WANG

Actor Tom Cruise rides a motorbike with the Olympic flag among athletes during the closing ceremony.

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Actor Tom Cruise performs during the closing ceremony at the Paris 2024 Olympics.

REUTERS/ALBERT GEA

President of France Emmanuel Macron is pictured before the closing ceremony at the Paris 2024 Olympics.

PARIS >> Movie star Tom Cruise rappelled from the roof of France’s national stadium and received the Olympic flag, bringing a heavy dose of Hollywood to the closing ceremony of the Paris Games as the French capital handed over to the next host Los Angeles.

Grammy-winning R&B artist H.E.R teased the Mission Impossible soundtrack as Cruise made his leap, drawing gasps from spectators as he dropped 50 meters to the floor of the Stade de France, in the finale to a ceremony that blended the traditional, the obscure and the razzle-dazzle of Tinseltown.

While Paris used iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and the Palace of Versailles to win the hearts of Olympians and spectators alike, L.A. was swift to turn to its star draw: A-list celebrities.

Paris was bringing down the curtain on an Olympic Games that brought scintillating sport to the heart of the capital, breathing new life into an Olympic brand hurt by the difficulties of Rio de Janeiro’s 2016 Games and the soulless spirit of Tokyo’s COVID-hit event.

Even Parisians were carried away by the Olympic fervor.

“We wanted to dream. We got Leon Marchand,” Paris 2024 chief Tony Estanguet told the crowd, referring to the French swimmer who won four golds.

“From one day to the next Paris became a party and France found itself. From a country of grumblers, we became a country of frenzied fans.”

‘CULTURE OF PEACE’

The two weeks of sporting drama saw China and the United States duke it out for the top spot in the medal table right down to the last event.

Echoing the heartache delivered to France by the United States in the men’s basketball final, the American women’s basketball side handed France a gut-wrenching one-point defeat to earn a 40th gold medal and top spot on the medal table.

As the world emerged from the COVID pandemic in 2022, Paris had promised an Olympic “light at the end of the tunnel” and to provide the stage for a carefree Games.

But Russia’s war in Ukraine on Europe’s eastern flank, conflict in the Middle East, and France’s heightened state of security alert loomed large as the Games got underway.

International Committee President Thomas Bach saluted the athletes as he declared the Games closed.

“During all this time, you lived peacefully together under one roof in the Olympic Village. You embraced each other,” Bach said. “You respected each other, even if your countries are divided by war and conflict. You created a culture of peace.”

HIGH BAR FOR LOS ANGELES

Cruise’s exit on a motorbike saw the closing ceremony transition to a prerecorded video of the 62-year-old skydiving down to the Hollywood sign, where a wide shot showed the Olympic rings incorporated into the L.A. landmark.

The flag was then passed from U.S. Olympians past and present as it traversed the city before reaching a beach party, where the L.A. music icons the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Billie Eilish, and Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre performed.

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has acknowledged Paris has set a high standard. But the City of Angels has billed itself as a beacon of diversity and will have Hollywood to fall back on.

“They’ve got a high bar to reach. A lot of work to do,” said James Rutledge, 59, a former banker wearing a Team USA t-shirt outside the Stade de France. “Hollywood next? That’s something to play with.”

SPORTING MEMORIES

France will take away fond sporting memories.

The French had a new golden boy to celebrate with swimmer Marchand emerging as the king of the pool, before French judoka Teddy Riner reigned supreme as he claimed his fifth Olympic gold medal.

Simone Biles put her twisties misery of Tokyo behind her, making a long-awaited Olympic return in front of a star-studded crowd. She arrived the world’s most decorated gymnast and left with a further three gold medals for her trophy cabinet.

Breaking made its Olympic debut — to some derision on social media — whilst 3×3 basketball, sports climbing, skateboarding and surfing made their second appearances.

The IOC will be relieved that no major scandals erupted, although it did have to grapple with some controversies.

A simmering doping row involving Chinese athletes hung over the Olympic swimming meet where the United States faced the biggest challenge to their reign in decades.

A storm around gender eligibility hit the women’s boxing competition, revealing the toxic relations between the IOC and a widely discredited International Boxing Association.

Meanwhile, a $1.5 billion clean-up of the Seine rewarded Paris with the optics of triathlon and marathon swimmers competing in the river through central Paris, without a wave of illness ensuing.

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Tokyo shore excursions, amazing experiences coming soon., sorry, there are no excursions for this port at this moment., things to do in tokyo.

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You'll find 10,000 trees and the impressive Meiji Shrine near Yoyogi Park. Grab a matcha tea ice cream to eat as you stroll toward the massive stone torii gates of the shrine. Then head to the Sensoji temple in Asakusa, where you can buy a wooden ema wishing plaque. If you're ready for lunch, there's plenty of street food located nearby.

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Go to Harajuku for a mecca of adorable kawaii shops and resturants. Start at Takeshita Street and walk to the trendy Omotesando Plaza, stopping off at the famed Kawaii Monster Cafe. If you're looking for more, head to the Akihabara for all things anime and maid and butler cafes.

A Crane-Eye View

The most spectacular way to appreciate Tokyo's sprawl is from high in the sky. Tokyo Tower is taller than the Eiffel tower. The Roppongi Hills Sky Deck offers an even better vantage point. If you're on a budget, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building has two free observation decks on the 45th floors of each of its towers.

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The new Toyosu Fish Market, which has replaced the Tsukiji Fish Market, will put you in seafood nirvana. Catch the early morning tuna auction and gobble down the freshest seafood you've ever had. Indulge in a helping of Kobe or Wagyu beef at the famous Hakushu Teppenyaki restaurant in Shibuya.

Start on the streets of Ginza, where you can shop through the world's most exclusive designer brands. For souvenir shopping, grab an iced coffee and walk through Nakamise for cultural knickknacks. If you're looking for quantity, find the chain dollar store, which is full of odd, funny, and cute items.

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Japan Warns of Elevated Risk of Giant Earthquake After Strong One Hits

The official warning came after a 7.1-magnitude temblor struck off the coast of southern Japan on Thursday.

Strong Earthquake Hits Southern Japan

Shake intensity.

By River Akira Davis Kiuko Notoya Hisako Ueno and Victoria Kim

River Akira Davis, Kiuko Notoya and Hisako Ueno reported from Tokyo, and Victoria Kim from Seoul.

Japan’s meteorological agency said on Thursday that there was a higher-than-usual chance that an immense earthquake could hit the country in the next few days, following a 7.1-magnitude temblor off the southern island of Kyushu.

Japan has long expected a major earthquake to occur along the Nankai Trough off its eastern coast. As of last year, researchers said there was a 60 percent chance that an earthquake of magnitude 8 to 9 — even more devastating than the one in 2011 that laid waste to the country’s northeast coast and knocked out cooling systems at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant — would occur in the trough area over the next 20 years.

After the 7.1-magnitude quake on Thursday, Japan’s meteorological agency convened a group of experts to evaluate whether it could be related to the long-anticipated bigger disaster, called a “Nankai Trough megathrust earthquake.”

Experts warn that an earthquake between two tectonic plates that converge along the Nankai megathrust fault, which runs from Kyushu north through Tokyo, could cause devastation. It could extensively damage cities throughout Japan, potentially cause a tsunami and lead to hundreds of thousands of deaths.

“The possibility of a large-scale earthquake occurring in the area of ​​the Nankai Trough is relatively higher than usual,” the meteorological agency said in a statement late Thursday.

The risk that an earthquake of magnitude of 8 or higher would occur after one with a magnitude of 7 is particularly elevated for about a week after the initial temblor, the agency said.

Japan’s meteorological agency issued a “caution” level of warning on Thursday. The next step up would be an “alert,” which would advise residents to evacuate from areas deemed a tsunami risk. The agency said it was the first time Japan had issued a “caution.”

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida urged people to ensure that they were ready at all times in case an earthquake occurred and they had to evacuate. He told reporters that the government was on high alert.

Earlier on Thursday, a tsunami advisory was issued for coastal regions on the southern Japanese islands of Kyushu and Shikoku after the 7.1-magnitude quake. As of late Thursday evening, the maximum height of waves recorded reached about a foot and a half off the coast of Miyazaki Prefecture on Kyushu.

A handful of injuries but no deaths were reported related to the earthquake. Footage showed images of strong shaking in buildings in Miyazaki Prefecture, but damage in the area appeared to be minimal. The earthquake occurred less than 20 miles off the coast of Miyazaki, according to the United States Geological Survey.

Bullet train service was temporarily halted on Kyushu, and the Miyazaki Airport suspended takeoffs and landings to inspect runways for any damage. Both bullet train and airport operations resumed later Thursday evening.

The Kyushu Electric Power Company said its nuclear power plants were operating normally.

Separate from the heightened possibility of a Nankai Trough earthquake, Japan’s meteorological agency advised being alert for aftershocks of a similar magnitude off the eastern coast of Miyazaki Prefecture over the next week. It said that landslides could also be a risk if there is rain in the coming days.

An earlier version of this article used an incorrect map showing an earthquake on Japan’s west coast. The earthquakes occurred on Japan’s east coast.

How we handle corrections

River Akira Davis covers Japan, including its economy and businesses, and is based in Tokyo. More about River Akira Davis

Kiuko Notoya is a Tokyo-based reporter and researcher, covering news and features from Japan. More about Kiuko Notoya

Hisako Ueno is a reporter and researcher based in Tokyo, writing on Japanese politics, business, labor, gender and culture. More about Hisako Ueno

Victoria Kim is a reporter based in Seoul and focuses on breaking news coverage across the world. More about Victoria Kim

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Disney plots villains-themed land and new cruise ships in resorts push

Walt Disney Co. unveiled a slew of new theme-park attractions, including its first land devoted to movie villains and a doubling of its Avengers Campus in California, as part of an extensive expansion of its resorts business.

Disney announced long-term plans for its parks and resorts unit last September that included doubling capital investment to $60 billion over 10 years.

Now, it’s providing much-awaited details.

The land devoted to villains will be at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom in Florida.

The space will be roughly the same size as its sprawling Star Wars-themed lands and include two attractions, as well as shopping and dining.

In the same park, Frontierland will get an upgrade that includes a Cars-themed area.

One ride there will takes guests through the wilderness, past mountains and geysers.

Together, the two projects represent the largest expansion ever at the 53-year-old Magic Kingdom.

"Our growth ambition is incredibly high,” Josh D’Amaro, who leads the resorts division, said in an interview. "We wanted the world to know that we’re serious about that and really doubling down on our investment and experiences around the world.”

Disney is forging ahead with the ambitious plans despite a slowdown in its parks business tied to weaker consumer trends.

With its most recent earnings on Aug. 7, the company reported lower profit at its resorts, which had been a growth engine in recent years.

The Avengers Campus at Disney’s California Adventure in Anaheim will get two new attractions, including a flight simulator tied to Marvel’s Tony Stark character.

The park will also get an attraction devoted to the Pixar film "Coco," following the character Miguel Rivera through the Land of the Dead.

That’s in addition to the previously announced "Avatar" land, which will be based on the second and third films in that series.

Construction for all of the projects will begin over the next five years, D’Amaro said.

Disney is also planning four new cruise ships, in addition to four already in development and five currently at sea — a huge commitment to that industry.

The new ships will be completed between 2027 and 2031.

The company recently announced a new ship that will be based in Singapore.

D’Amaro declined to say where the new ones will sail, but suggested more international ports could be on the horizon.

"There’s demand all over the world for these cruise ships,” he said. "We’re gonna be really intelligent in deploying the fleet to bring these stories and experiences to as many people around the world as we can.”

Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Florida, meanwhile, will get a land based on Pixar’s "Monsters Inc." franchise, including a roller coaster.

The nearby Animal Kingdom will get a new ride devoted to Indiana Jones and one re-creating the magical house from the animated hit "Encanto."

New Spider-Man attractions are coming to Disney parks in Shanghai and Hong Kong.

In Paris, the company will build a lake and a separate log flume ride based on "The Lion King."

To commemorate the 70th anniversary of California’s Disneyland next year, that park is getting an animatronic version of co-founder Walt Disney.

In the long term, the new attractions could help reinvigorate demand.

Chief Financial Officer Hugh Johnston said on a call with investors that the company is forecasting flat sales in the resorts division until mid-2025 as low-income consumers pull back on buying tickets and merchandise and wealthier guests travel internationally.

The recently weaker performance of Disney parks follows years of ticket price increases that have likely pinched consumers, Dennis Speigel, chief executive officer of consultancy International Theme Park Services, said in an interview.

"Every 10 years or so, we start to hit a pricing wall,” Speigel said. "Disney and Universal were hanging in there pretty well, with guests who’d booked airlines and hotels months in advance still coming. But as we came into 2023, they kept raising the prices, and that’s when the burn-off came, and we started hitting the wall again.”

D’Amaro said the company is adept at managing consumer shifts.

The company can deploy promotions and target very specific audiences, as well as manage costs, he said.

"We have in place very sophisticated tools to manage through these types of fluctuations,” he said. "We’re in such a better position today than we ever have been before.”

Comcast’s Universal unit also plans to have a new theme park in Florida that will include a land tied to its lineup of classic film monsters like Frankenstein and Dracula.

D’Amaro didn’t say which villains Disney’s new land will feature, a lineup that could include characters like Cruella de Vil and Maleficent.

"You can expect all of the villains that you can imagine coming together into this land,” he said. "I think this is gonna be one of the most magnificent things our imagineers have ever built.”

Disney unveiled more plans to put its characters in the hit video game "Fortnite" as part of an ongoing partnership with developer Epic Games.

The announcements capped the second day of D23, a three-day event for Disney superfans.

Attendees typically pack the Anaheim Convention Center for displays, panel discussions and shopping tied to the company’s movies, TV shows and theme-park rides.

Guests this year are coming from all 50 states in the United States, and from 36 countries.

Attractions include a vintage car exhibit, a celebration of Disney’s Broadway shows and one devoted to the company’s animation studios.

Vendors run from art dealers to toymakers and travel agencies.

For the first time, Disney held its largest presentations at a separate arena.

Friday’s was devoted to the company’s film and TV business.

On Sunday, Disney "legends” that include actors Harrison Ford and Jamie Lee Curtis, director James Cameron and composer John Williams will be recognized for their contributions to the company.

The D23 fan club, named after the year the company was founded, has more than 1.5 million members.

"We’ve got confidence in these businesses, and I think that confidence is on full display in terms of these investments that we’re making,” D’Amaro said. "What we’ve always done well is we’ve kept our foot on the gas, and we’ve invested for future generations, and we’re doing that now.”

In a time of both misinformation and too much information, quality journalism is more crucial than ever. By subscribing, you can help us get the story right.

Tom Cruise Was ‘Protective’ of Gina Gershon While Filming Her First Sex Scene, Even When She ‘Kneed Him’ in the Face: ‘I Just Broke His Nose’

By Zack Sharf

Digital News Director

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Gina Gershon appeared on “Watch What Happens Live” and was asked by host Andy Cohen if she ever hooked up with Tom Cruise . The two actors starred together in 1988’s “Cocktail,” where Gershon remembered nearly breaking Cruise’s nose during the filming of a sex scene. The moment just so happened to be Gershon’s first time shooting a love scene in a movie. The actor said Cruise “totally” took care of her while filming.

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Gershon, meanwhile, was more of a newcomer to Hollywood movies at the time. Her fame increased in the 1990s with acclaimed performances in “Bound,” which Gershon recently revealed she was told not to do as the movie centered on a lesbian relationship. The actor said on the  “It Happened in Hollywood” podcast that her agents told her specifically that she “can’t play a lesbian” because it would tank her Hollywood career.

“It was a great script and I could tell they were incredible directors, but my agents were like, ‘We will not let you do this movie. You are ruining your career. You will never work again,’” Gershon said, adding that her agents said they could no longer represent her if she took the part.

Watch Gershon’s full appearance on “Watch What Happens Live” in the video below.

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Cruises to Japan

During a cruise to Japan with Celebrity, you'll visit extraordinary cities with an ancient culture that seamlessly blends with the country’s ultra-modern architecture and lifestyle. Japan cruises offer you the chance to discover captivating Shinto shrines, stroll through meticulously-planned formal gardens, savor the freshest sushi, and visit some of the world's most beautiful mountain scenery.

Visit Tokyo, where you can explore the city's intricate temples, shop in its bustling markets, and enjoy its diverse and delicious food. You'll also visit Kyoto, where Buddhist temples and the gracefully curved nagare-zukuri style of architecture contribute to the city’s celebrated beauty. Admire Mount Fuji, the highest mountain in the country, its snow-capped cone a symbol of Japan. Uncover the rich history, serene nature, and modern buzz of Japan on a cruise to Asia with Celebrity Cruises.

Japan Cruise Highlights

Authentic cultural experiences.

Japan has one of the deepest, best-preserved cultures anywhere on earth, and you'll get to experience this first-hand on cruises to Japan. In Tokyo, with its skyscrapers and Shinto shrines side-by-side, you'll feel the intricate balance of old and new Japanese culture. In Kyoto, explore more than 1,600 temples and shrines, including the iconic Kinkaku-Ji, or "Golden Pavilion." Enjoy traditional Japanese music, folkloric dance, and art, all on one incredible journey that brings you cultural enrichment at every turn.

Unique Cuisine

Dining in Japan is a treat, offering extraordinary diversity, creativity, and adventurous ingredients. You can find fresh, delicious sushi and sashimi, but look out, too, for fantastic yakitori (skewered chicken), tempura (vegetables or seafood fried in a light batter), udon (thick wheat noodles), and much more.

Natural Wonders

Japan is a land of natural beauty and wonder, and you'll have the opportunity to see some of the country's most beautiful natural sights during your cruise. Visit majestic mountains, sacred hot springs, and charming botanical gardens. Enjoy cherry blossoms in spring, or see the stunning red leaves of fall. No matter when you choose to cruise, Japan's natural beauty will be on display for you to cherish.

Featured Japanese Cruise Ports

A Japan cruise will take you to a diverse mix of ports. Some of these ports, like the famous capital city of Tokyo, offer a city experience full of skyscrapers, fine dining, and a chance to witness the day-to-day life of many who live in Japan. Other ports you’ll visit during a cruise around Japan provide a more tranquil setting with opportunities to get out into nature and visit ancient temples and shrines. In addition, many of our Japan cruise itineraries offer overnight ports of call to experience the nightlife of Japan; these may take place in Kobe and Kyoto.

Japan Cruise Itineraries

Cruises to Japan embark in Tokyo and Singapore and last for 12 or 13 nights. Sail to some of northeast Asia’s most celebrated cities and explore the country’s dazzling natural beauty. From mountains to beaches, exciting markets and fascinating museums, Celebrity brings you the best of Japan in these exciting itineraries.

Itineraries

Why cruise to japan with celebrity cruises.

On a cruise to Japan with Celebrity, you will enjoy award-winning service, fine dining, and exciting entertainment. Sit back and relax with a glass of your favorite wine at Cellar Masters. Take in a fiery Japanese sunset and watch a movie under the stars from your comfortable seat on the Rooftop Terrace. Kids will love Camp at Sea, with different activities to stimulate their sense of creativity as you head to your next destination.

These fabulous Japan cruises will take you to ports like Kyoto, where you spend the night, with plenty of time to explore the many UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You'll also sail to Hakodate, a port famous for its fresh seafood, hot springs, and stunning mountain views. Marvel at the majesty of Mt. Fuji and enjoy a traditional Japanese tea ceremony in Kochi. On your next vacation, cruise to Japan with Celebrity for cultural immersion in style.

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