Things To Do
in Yokosuka
Yokosuka sits on Tokyo Bay in Kanagawa Prefecture, blending a storied naval heritage with a modern waterfront vibe. The city is known for its historical ships, harbor views, and fresh seafood scene anchored by the port and surrounding neighborhoods. Visitors can explore Mikasa Park to see the famed battleship Mikasa, stroll along the quay for bay panoramas, and enjoy a casual bite of navy curry or shirasu don.
With mild seasons and easy access to coastal trails and nearby Kamakura and Yokohama, Yokosuka makes for a relaxed yet engaging coastal getaway near Tokyo.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Yokosuka Museum of Art, where you can admire stunning contemporary art pieces with breathtaking views of the Tokyo Bay. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the nearby Verny Park, where historical monuments and beautiful gardens invite you to relax. Enjoy a cup of coffee at a local café while soaking in the tranquil atmosphere of the park.
In the afternoon, explore the historic district of Yokosuka, where you can wander through charming streets lined with traditional Japanese houses and shops. Visit the famous Mikasa Park, home to the retired battleship Mikasa, and learn about its significant role in Japanese naval history. Enjoy lunch at a local ramen shop to savor authentic Japanese flavors.
As the sun sets, head to the waterfront area for a picturesque dinner overlooking the bay. Choose from a variety of restaurants offering both local and international cuisine, ensuring a delightful dining experience. End your evening with a leisurely walk along the promenade, enjoying the cool ocean breeze.
Kick off your day at Zushi Beach, where the soft sand and gentle waves beckon you to relax and enjoy the seaside. Spend your morning swimming in the clear waters or trying out various water sports such as paddleboarding or kayaking. Grab a light breakfast at a beachside café, indulging in fresh seafood and local specialties.
Continue your beach day with a picnic lunch right on the beach, surrounded by stunning sea views and the sound of waves. Afterward, join a beach volleyball game with locals for a fun and active afternoon, or simply lay back and soak up the sun. Explore the quaint coastal shops nearby to pick up unique souvenirs and beach gear.
As the day winds down, enjoy a sunset view from the beach, casting golden hues over the water. Head to a nearby izakaya for dinner, where you can taste an array of Japanese dishes paired with refreshing drinks. Wrap up your evening with a stroll along the beach, watching the stars twinkle over the tranquil sea.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍣Sushi or seafood bowl (mid-range restaurant) | $12-22 |
| ☕Coffee or tea in cafe | $3-6 |
| 🚆Local transit fare (short ride) | $2-5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $80-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich naval history and scenic waterfront
- Close proximity to Kamakura, Yokohama, and nature trails
- Can be windy and humid in summer
- Some areas are hilly and less walkable without a car
- "こんにちは" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "お願いします" - Please / I would like
- "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
- "いくらですか" - How much is this?
- "トイレはどこですか" - Where is the toilet?
- "英語を話せますか" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Yokosuka
Visit one of these nice places.
Well-kept harbor grounds with the restored World War I battleship as the centerpiece; great for wide bayside shots and evening lighting.
Cliffside trails and a historic lighthouse with dramatic sea vistas, ideal for panoramic seascapes and sunset photos.
Elevated spots along the harbor where you can capture ships passing the channel with Tokyo Bay as a backdrop.
Coastal trails and rocky coves offering rugged sea photography and nature scenes, accessible by ferry from central Yokosuka.
Food in Yokosuka
Yokosuka Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A curry rice dish popular in Yokosuka with rich, mildly sweet flavors. Often served with pickles, it’s a hearty, comforting staple at many seaside eateries.
Must-Try!
A rice bowl topped with shirasu (fresh whitebait) from nearby Sagami Bay, often enjoyed with grated ginger and soy sauce over warm rice.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A waterfront market area where you can sample fresh seafood, grilled skewers, and seasonal fish dishes right near the dock.
Casual street food stalls along the waterfront offering light bites such as tempura, croquettes, and seasonal snacks with bay views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Speak softly in public spaces, remove shoes when entering homes or traditional spaces, and be punctual in meetings and trains.
Line up neatly and wait your turn; pushing and loud conduct is discouraged in public transportation and shops.
Be mindful around military areas and bases; photography near base perimeters may be restricted.
Safety
Tipping in Yokosuka
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan; service charges are usually included in prices. A polite thank you in Japanese is appreciated if you want to acknowledge good service.
Cash is widely accepted, especially at markets and smaller eateries. Credit cards are common in larger restaurants and hotels, but carry some cash for mom-and-pop spots and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming coastal scenery; comfortable for outdoor strolls, especially along the harbor and Kannonzaki Park.
Warm to hot and humid with chances of typhoons; ideal for beach days and waterfront dining, but bring sun protection and water.
Pleasant and cooler air with clear skies and ocean views; great for long coastal walks and photography.
Mild and relatively dry with occasional chilly days; lower crowds make it a good time for quiet harbor photos and museum visits.
Yokosuka at Night
Hiking in Yokosuka
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal forest trails with sea views and historic ruins, accessible by ferry from central Yokosuka.
Scenic coastal paths along the cape with lighthouse vantage points and sea panoramas.
Airports
How to reach Yokosuka by plane.
Main Tokyo-area airport; frequent international and domestic flights. Approximately 40-80 minutes by train from Yokosuka, depending on connections.
Major international gateway further from Yokosuka; roughly 70-90 minutes by train with transfers.
Smaller airport on Oshima Island; limited domestic flights; local access from Yokosuka can be via ferry and road routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of long-time locals, students, and families, with a visible naval community influence in certain districts.
Tourists drawn to the harbor, Mikasa Park, and coastal nature experiences near Yokosuka’s bays.
A notable presence due to the naval base, contributing to a cosmopolitan, service-oriented atmosphere in some neighborhoods.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular local and school sport, with games and events around the city and bayside parks.
Local matches and informal play along coastal parks and school fields.
Kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and light snorkeling along the coast and nearby coves.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Yokosuka.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many seafood-focused spots can accommodate ovo-lacto vegetarians; ask for tofu or vegetable curries, salads, and rice bowls. For stricter diets, stick to vegetable-side dishes and rice without meat stock, and look for places with clearly labeled veggie options or English menus.