Things To Do
in Yokosuka

Yokosuka, Japan, is a vibrant city located in Kanagawa Prefecture, known for its rich maritime history and strong naval presence. It offers stunning coastal views and a unique blend of Japanese culture and Western influences due to its proximity to the U.S. Navy base. The city is famous for its delicious seafood, beautiful parks, and historical landmarks such as the Mikasa Park and the Yokosuka Museum of Art.

With a lively atmosphere, Yokosuka is an ideal destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Yokosuka
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Mikasa Park, where you can explore the historical battleship Mikasa and enjoy the beautiful gardens.

afternoon
:

Head to the Yokosuka Museum of Art to admire contemporary Japanese art and enjoy stunning views of the Tokyo Bay.

evening
:

Dine at a local izakaya, where you can experience traditional Japanese small plates and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a morning hike at the nearby Aburatsubo Marine Park, where you can see diverse marine life and enjoy scenic coastal views.

afternoon
:

Visit the Kannonzaki Lighthouse and enjoy the breathtaking views of the ocean; take some time to explore the surrounding area.

evening
:

Experience Yokosuka's nightlife at a local bar or karaoke spot, where you can mingle with locals and enjoy live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$15
Coffee$3
🚇Train Ticket$2
🏨Hotel Night$100
🍜Ramen Bowl$8

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and history.
  • Delicious local cuisine, especially seafood.
  • Beautiful nature and outdoor activities.
  • Limited English signage in some areas.
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons.
  • High humidity in summer months.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "はい" - Yes
  • "いいえ" - No

Places to Visit in Yokosuka

Visit one of these nice places.

Mikasa Park

Capture stunning views of the battleship Mikasa and the surrounding gardens, especially during cherry blossom season.

Kannonzaki Lighthouse

A picturesque lighthouse offering panoramic views of the ocean, perfect for sunset photography.

Yokosuka Navy Base

Document the fascinating blend of military presence and local culture with shots of naval ships and the base environment.

Culinary Guide

Food in Yokosuka

Yokosuka is a culinary delight, renowned for its fresh seafood and unique local dishes that showcase the flavors of the region.

Yokosuka Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Yokosuka Navy Curry

A hearty curry dish that reflects the city's naval heritage, often served with rice and a variety of toppings.

Must-Try!

Saba (Mackerel) Sushi

Freshly prepared sushi featuring mackerel, a local specialty that highlights the city's access to the sea.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Yokosuka Fish Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh seafood, local snacks, and street food vendors offering delicious bites.

Kaki no Hara Street

Famous for its street food, including grilled seafood skewers and takoyaki, perfect for a quick bite on the go.

Climate Guide

Weather

Yokosuka experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures averaging 25-30°C (77-86°F) and occasional rain. Winters are mild, with temperatures ranging from 5-10°C (41-50°F), making it comfortable for outdoor activities. Spring and autumn are generally pleasant, with moderate temperatures and beautiful scenery.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Personal Space

Maintain a respectful distance in conversations and avoid loud noises in public spaces.

Bowing as Greeting

A slight bow is a customary greeting; it's a sign of respect and is often preferred over a handshake.

Shoes Off Indoors

Always remove your shoes when entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments.

Safety Guide

Safety

Yokosuka is considered a safe city with low crime rates. However, it's always advisable to stay alert, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 110 for police and 119 for fire and medical assistance. It's recommended to keep personal belongings secure and be cautious when traveling alone at night.

Tipping in Yokosuka

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan and may be considered rude; excellent service is expected as the norm.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but credit cards are accepted in many restaurants and shops; it's advisable to carry some yen.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with cherry blossoms in bloom, making it a great time for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Hot and humid with occasional typhoons; perfect for beach activities but be prepared for sudden weather changes.

Autumn

Cool and comfortable with beautiful fall foliage, ideal for hiking and exploring local parks.

Winter

Mild winters with occasional cold snaps; enjoy local winter festivals and warm up with hearty dishes.

Nightlife Guide

Yokosuka at Night

Yokosuka's nightlife offers a mix of izakayas, bars, and karaoke spots that cater to both locals and visitors. The atmosphere is vibrant, especially near the naval base, where you can find a variety of international and local venues. Popular areas for nightlife include the Yokosuka Chuo area, filled with lively bars and restaurants. Whether you're looking for a quiet place to enjoy a drink or a lively karaoke session, Yokosuka has something for everyone.

Hiking in Yokosuka

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kurihama Flower Park Trail

A scenic trail that meanders through beautiful flower gardens, offering stunning views of the bay, especially during spring.

Mt. Kintoki Trail

A more challenging hike that rewards hikers with panoramic views of the surrounding areas, suitable for experienced hikers.

Airports

How to reach Yokosuka by plane.

Yokota Air Base

Approximately 60 km from Yokosuka, it serves as a major military airbase with limited commercial flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Yokosuka is a highly walkable city, especially in areas around the main attractions and waterfront. Sidewalks are well-maintained and pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. Public transportation is also accessible, so you can combine walking with local buses or trains for extended exploration.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Japanese Locals

The majority of the population consists of Japanese citizens who maintain traditional customs while embracing modern influences.

U.S. Military Personnel

A significant demographic includes U.S. military personnel stationed at the nearby naval base, contributing to the city's multicultural atmosphere.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is immensely popular in Japan, with local teams and stadiums hosting games that attract large crowds.

Soccer

Soccer is widely played and followed, with local clubs and youth leagues fostering a strong community spirit.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Yokosuka can be busy during peak hours, especially near the naval base and main shopping areas. Public transportation, including trains and buses, is efficient and widely used, providing easy access to various attractions. Biking is also a popular alternative, with designated paths along the coastline.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Yokosuka.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While many dishes contain fish or meat, some restaurants offer vegetarian alternatives such as vegetable tempura and soba noodles.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options may be limited, but rice dishes and certain sushi can be suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Yokosuka is of high quality, with several well-equipped hospitals and clinics. Emergency services are readily available, and many medical professionals speak English, especially in private clinics. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance to cover potential medical expenses.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide