Star Cruises has launched its inaugural “Golden Sea Route” voyage – a week-long cruise that takes Chinese passengers to some of Japan’s most popular destinations.

Only 21 sailings have been scheduled from now until 30 November 2017, all of which will operate to and from Shanghai onboard the SuperStar Virgo cruise ship. Destinations include Osaka, Tokyo, Mount Fuji and Kagoshima, as well as two days at sea.

Star Cruises and its parent company, Genting Cruise Lines, are promoting a series of fly-cruise packages to give more Chinese travellers access to the new cruises.

“As a pioneer in the Asian cruise industry, Genting Cruise Lines continues to bring new travel experiences to the flourishing markets in Asia,” said Kent Zhu, president of Genting Cruise Lines. “Our… itineraries encompass key destinations in Shanghai, Osaka, Tokyo, Mount Fuji and Kagoshima, popular with visitors throughout the region and now readily accessible by combining flights and cruises.

“By promoting these destinations as fly cruise options, we aim to further boost the Japan and China markets by bringing in more guests from around the region,” he added.

The Golden Sea Route cruises will incorporate onboard cultural activities including flower arranging classes, sushi-making demonstrations, origami workshops and “sumo suit parties”. The ship’s F&B outlets will also specialise in Chinese and Japanese cuisine.