Yokosuka: Boat Trip to Natural Island and Naval Port Cruise

This tour offers a fascinating mix of history, nature, and maritime views in Yokosuka, Japan—a city that balances its military significance with beautiful outdoor spaces. While I haven’t personally taken this exact journey, reviews and detailed itineraries reveal a compelling experience that’s perfect for those interested in Japan’s naval heritage and scenic landscapes.

What we love about this tour:

• Visiting Sarushima Island’s historic remains and enjoying outdoor adventures.
• Sampling authentic local food at the Port Market—think fresh seafood and Japanese specialties.
• The chance to see real battleships and submarines on the harbor cruise, which feels like a living museum.

A possible drawback? The weather can impact the ferry and cruise schedules, so flexibility is essential. This tour is ideal for travelers who love history, nature, and small-group experiences, especially if you appreciate guided insights and authentic local flavor.

Key Points

Balanced mix of history and nature: Get a taste of Japan’s military past while enjoying scenic outdoor activities.
Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides like Lucy enhance the experience with local stories and historical insights.
Authentic local cuisine: Lunch at Port Market offers a variety of fresh, regional dishes.
Flexible and small groups: Limited to six participants, ensuring personalized attention.
Weather-dependent activities: The ferry and harbor cruise are subject to weather, so plans may shift.
Great value for the price: For $82, you gain a well-rounded day with multiple highlights and expert guidance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Yokosuka: A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour starts conveniently at Yokosuka-ch station’s east exit around 9:40 am, where a friendly guide like Kyoko or Lucy will meet small groups of up to six travelers. This small-group approach means you’ll get plenty of personalized attention, insider tips, and the chance to ask questions. The meeting point’s central location makes it easy to find, and the entire day is structured to give a flowing experience—no long waits, just well-planned stops.

Visiting War Historical Sites

The first part of the tour involves walking to the visitor center for an introduction, then hopping onto a ferry for a quick 10-minute ride to Sarushima Island, Japan’s only natural island in Tokyo Bay. Here, we loved the way the guide shares stories about the old military installations, such as brick tunnels, barracks, and magazines—remnants of Japan’s wartime past. These sites aren’t just museum pieces; they are evocative remnants that invite reflection on the country’s military history.

Multiple reviews praise the guides, especially Lucy, for her extensive knowledge. One reviewer notes, “Lucy shares lots of knowledge and has books and aids that help you enjoy the history even more.” The ruins and bunkers are well-preserved, and walking through the forested paths offers a peaceful contrast to the military sites. You’ll collect shells on the sandy beaches and soak up views of Tokyo Bay, making this a memorable outdoor adventure.

Lunch at Port Market

After returning from the island, the tour moves toward the Port Market, a lively seaside spot where you can choose from a variety of local dishes. The food is a highlight—fresh seafood, Japanese staples, and snacks—offering a taste of regional flavors. The roughly one-hour break allows you to relax and refuel before continuing.

Reviewer Cornelia from Switzerland mentions, “The food was fantastic, and the setting by the sea made the lunch even better.” It’s an excellent chance to soak in the maritime atmosphere and chat with fellow travelers or guides about local life.

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Strolling Dobuita Street and Exploring Yokosuka’s Maritime Scene

Post-lunch, the tour takes a short walk to Dobuita Street, famous for its military goods, souvenirs, and Japanese pop culture. Expect to find unique items, from military memorabilia to trendy fashion and quirky souvenirs. It’s a lively area that reflects Yokosuka’s naval connection and international influence.

One reviewer appreciated this part, saying, “It’s great to see the military and cultural blend, and I loved browsing the shops and trying some street snacks.” The guide’s insights make this a more meaningful experience, highlighting the history behind the shops and local legends.

The Harbor Cruise: Military Ships and Maritime Views

The final highlight is a 45-minute harbor cruise around Yokosuka Port. Here, you’ll see battleships and submarines belonging to both the American Navy and the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Forces. This is where the tour truly feels like an interactive maritime museum—only with the wind in your hair and real ships to admire.

Travelers like Gregory from Australia comment, “Lucy’s knowledge about current navy happenings made the cruise especially interesting.” Watching these massive vessels and listening to commentary about their roles adds a layer of understanding about Japan’s defense and international naval presence.

Overall Value and Experience

For $82, this tour packs in a lot: historical exploration, outdoor fun, authentic food, and maritime sights. The small group size and guided commentary elevate the experience, making it more than just a sightseeing trip. It’s an educational, scenic, and culturally rich day that balances active exploration with relaxed moments.

The tour’s duration of around 6.5 hours is well-suited for those who want a full but manageable day. It’s particularly good for history buffs, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone curious about Japan’s naval ties.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Bring comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking on varied terrain—wooden decks, sandy beaches, and streets.
• Keep an eye on the weather forecast, as rain or high winds could lead to schedule adjustments.
• The tour is not suitable for very young children (under 5), seniors over 80, or those prone to seasickness.
• Booking with flexible payment options allows you to reserve confidently and cancel up to 24 hours in advance if needed.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re eager to combine history with outdoor adventures, this is a perfect choice. It’s especially appealing for travelers who enjoy small-group experiences with expert guides, authentic local cuisine, and maritime scenery. The mix of educational sites, natural beauty, and naval sights makes it suitable for a variety of interests—from military history to nature walks.

Those looking for a day outside Tokyo that offers a genuine taste of Japan’s naval culture and scenic landscapes will find this tour engaging and well worth the price. It’s an excellent way to see a different side of Japan, away from the hustle and bustle of the capital.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is not recommended for children under 5 years old or babies under 1, primarily due to the walking involved and the boat rides.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are essential for walking, plus weather-appropriate clothing as the ferry and cruise depend on weather conditions.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6.5 hours, covering historic sites, a meal, shopping, and the harbor cruise.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for travelers with uncertain schedules.

Is there a guide?
Yes, the experience includes a live guide who speaks English and Japanese, providing insights into the sites and history throughout the day.

What kind of food is served at Port Market?
You’ll find a variety of local menus, including fresh seafood and Japanese street foods—perfect for a seaside lunch.

What if the weather is bad?
The ferry and cruise are weather-dependent. The guide will contact you the day before if plans need to be adjusted, so flexibility is key.

This Yokosuka boat trip is a well-rounded, engaging experience that offers a genuine look into Japan’s naval history, natural beauty, and local culture. Whether you’re into military history, outdoor exploration, or simply enjoy scenic boat rides, you’ll find this tour provides good value and memorable moments.

You can check availability for your dates here: