Yokosuka: Boat Trip to Natural Island and Naval Port Cruise

Yokosuka: Boat Trip to Natural Island and Naval Port Cruise — a detailed review

If you’re visiting Honshu and craving a blend of history, nature, and maritime marvels, this Yokosuka tour offers an intriguing mix. For $82 per person, you’ll spend roughly 6.5 hours exploring Sarushima Island, enjoying a flavorful local lunch, and cruising through the bustling naval port — all led by knowledgeable guides, with a small group for a personalized experience.

What we love about this tour is how it balances historical education with beautiful scenery. Walking through the remnants of old Japanese military facilities on Sarushima gives you a tangible sense of history, and the boat ride offers a fresh perspective on the Japanese Navy and U.S. fleet. Plus, the local lunch at Port Market is a delightful break, showcasing regional flavors that make this experience stand out. A slight consideration: weather can impact ferry and cruise schedules, so it’s worth planning with some flexibility.

This tour is perfect for history buffs, nature lovers, and anyone interested in Japan’s maritime side. If you enjoy guided walks, local cuisine, and seeing naval vessels up close, you’ll find this day enriching and fun without feeling rushed.

Key Points

• Historic sites on Sarushima Island reveal Japan’s military past.
• Scenic ferry rides provide unique views of Tokyo Bay and naval vessels.
• Local lunch at Port Market offers regional flavors and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Small group size ensures personalized attention and engaging conversations.
• Expert guides share detailed knowledge, making history come alive.
• Flexible cancellation policy adds peace of mind for booking plans.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Yokosuka: An Authentic Maritime Day

When we first considered this tour, what drew us in was the chance to experience Yokosuka’s naval history firsthand. The city is renowned for its significant military presence, and this tour takes you right into the heart of it. Starting outside Yokosuka-ch station, the pre-dawn-like calm of the city is a perfect backdrop for seafarer stories and adventure.

The Morning: History on Sarushima Island

Our first stop is the ferry ride to Sarushima, the only natural island in Tokyo Bay. The 10-minute boat trip offers views of the bay’s military activity — a bit of a thrill when you spot the naval ships and submarines docked nearby. As we step onto the sandy shores, it’s immediately clear why this island was strategically important — it’s small but packed with history.

Our guide, Lucy, quickly points out the remains of old military facilities like brick tunnels, barracks, and the power magazines used during Japan’s earlier military days. These relics are impressive, and the fact that they’re preserved makes walking through them feel like stepping back in time. As one reviewer puts it, “Lucy is a really nice person! She knows a lot about the history of the island and also about the marina seaport,” which makes these stories come alive.

We loved the walk through the forest and along the sandy beach, collecting shells and imagining the island’s past life. It’s a simple pleasure, but these moments of quiet nature are a nice contrast to the military history. The terrain is manageable, but comfortable shoes are a must for exploring the uneven paths.

Lunch at Port Market: Tasting Local Flavors

Returning from Sarushima, the group heads to Port Market, a lively seaside spot where local vendors serve a variety of regional foods. We appreciated how the menus offered a good mix of casual and hearty options — perfect for a relaxed lunch. The food is well-prepared, and the setting by the water adds a peaceful vibe. After a morning of history and nature, this break gives us a chance to recharge and chat about what we’ve seen.

Afternoon: Discovering Yokosuka’s Military and Cultural Scene

Post-lunch, we stroll down Dobuita Street, famous for its military goods and Japanese souvenirs. The street is lively, with shops and cafes, giving you a glimpse of Yokosuka’s vibrant community life. Many reviews highlight guides like Lucy sharing local stories and pointing out hidden gems — making the experience more than just a walk.

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The Grand Finale: Naval Port Cruise

The last part of our tour is the 45-minute harbor cruise, which is a real highlight. Cruising past battleships, submarines, and naval vessels lets you see Yokosuka’s military might up close. We loved the way the guide explained the different ships and their roles, making the experience informative without feeling overwhelming.

The cruise also offers fantastic photo opportunities, especially with the ships lined up along the bay. It’s a peaceful, scenic way to end the day, and many reviewers agree that seeing the navy from the water adds a special perspective.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

The day begins with a 20-minute walk from the station to the visitor center, a good chance to stretch your legs and get oriented. The visit to the center is brief but informative — it provides contextual background about Yokosuka’s military significance, which enhances the later exploration of Sarushima.

Next, the ferry ride to Sarushima is quick, but the real magic starts once on the island. The guided tour of the remains is about two hours, where you’ll visit the tunnels, barracks, and beaches. The guides do a great job of explaining the strategic importance of the island, which you’ll appreciate if you’re into military history or enjoy walking in nature.

The ferry back is smooth and allows for more photo ops of the bay’s naval activity. Then, you have time at Yokosuka Port Market for lunch — a highlight for many, thanks to its local food and seaside atmosphere.

After lunch, a 15-minute walk takes you to Dobuita Street, where you can soak up the lively street culture and shop for souvenirs. The final stop is the harbor cruise, lasting about 45 minutes, giving you sweeping views of the ships and the bay.

Authentic Experiences and What Travelers Say

Many reviews mention guides like Lucy as a major highlight, with comments like “she shares lots of knowledge,” and “she felt like a friend from the start.” The guides’ local insights and approachable manner make the tour both educational and fun.

The scenic ferry ride gets praise for offering a different perspective on Yokosuka’s naval base. As one reviewer notes, “the hikes were fun and it was nice to get away from Tokyo’s busy streets.” The beach at Sarushima and the famous Dobuita Street are repeatedly praised for their authentic charm.

Some travelers mention the delicious local food at the port market, highlighting that it offers regional flavors worth trying. The small group size (limited to six participants) ensures everyone gets personalized attention and feels comfortable asking questions.

What to keep in mind

Weather can influence ferry and cruise schedules, so flexibility is advisable. While the tour is generally suitable for most, it’s not recommended for children under five, those prone to seasickness, or individuals over 80. Comfortable shoes are essential for walking and exploring the island’s uneven terrain.

The Value of This Tour

At $82, this experience offers a lot: historical insights, beautiful scenery, authentic local food, and a chance to see Yokosuka’s naval assets up close. When you consider the small-group setting, experienced guides, and diverse activities, it’s a well-rounded day that balances education and leisure.

You’ll leave with a richer understanding of Yokosuka’s military importance, a better appreciation for Japan’s coastal defense history, and some memorable photos of ships and islands alike. This tour provides a meaningful escape from Tokyo’s urban bustle, with enough variety to keep everyone engaged.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those curious about Japan’s maritime side. It suits travelers who prefer guided walks and storytelling over self-guided excursions. If you enjoy local cuisine, scenic boat rides, and learning about military history in a relaxed setting, you’ll find this tour rewarding.

It’s especially recommended if you want to see a different facet of Japan beyond the typical tourist sites. The small group setting fosters interaction, making it perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small groups of friends seeking an authentic, well-organized day.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour isn’t recommended for children under 5 years because of walking and ferry rides, and for those prone to seasickness or over 80, due to mobility or comfort concerns.

How long is the ferry ride to Sarushima?
The ferry ride to Sarushima takes about 10 minutes, offering quick access to the island’s historic sites.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are essential, as you’ll be walking on uneven terrain and exploring the island. Bringing a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen is advisable, especially in sunny weather.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Is the tour available in English and Japanese?
Yes, the guides speak both English and Japanese, ensuring clear explanations for international travelers.

What is included in the lunch?
The tour includes a local lunch at Port Market, with a variety of menu options, typical of the area’s regional cuisine.

How many people are in each tour group?
Groups are limited to six participants, creating a more intimate and engaging experience.

To sum it up, this Yokosuka boat and island tour offers a well-balanced mix of history, scenery, and local culture. The knowledgeable guides, authentic sites, and scenic boat rides make it a worthwhile choice for those interested in Japan’s maritime heritage and natural beauty. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking to escape the city’s hustle, this tour delivers a meaningful and memorable day — all at a reasonable price and with flexible booking options.

You can check availability for your dates here: