Mikasa Park (Yokosuka City, Kanagawa Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Mikasa Park (Yokosuka City, Kanagawa Prefecture) is an open park facing the sea, famous for preserving and displaying the battleship "Mikasa," which was active from the Meiji to Taisho periods. The Mikasa was the flagship of the Combined Fleet during the Russo-Japanese War, and served as a vessel for Admiral Togo Heihachiro, who fought in the Tsushima Strait and the Battle of Tsushima. In addition to being able to view the battleship itself up close, the park also features a statue and memorial of Togo Heihachiro, a walking path along the waterfront, and a grassy plaza, making it a historical and relaxing place where you can enjoy the sea and harbor views.

Highlights

• Tour inside the battleship Mikasa: A valuable facility where you can get up close and personal with an actual warship. You can see documents and equipment from that time on the deck, in the conning tower, and in the exhibition room (there is a fee to enter the ship and opening hours apply).
• Togo Heihachiro Statue and MonumentThe bronze statues and memorial monuments in the park are spots where you can get a sense of the historical background.
• Seaside Promenade: You can enjoy the great view of Yokosuka Port and Uraga Strait, the moored ships and the sea breeze. It's also a great place for taking photos.
• Seasonal scenery: The scenery changes with the seasons, from cherry blossoms in spring, to the sea breeze from early summer to autumn, and the illuminated scenery at night. We recommend taking a stroll around the area.
• Nearby gourmet food and events: Yokosuka's famous Navy curry, restaurants on Dobuita Street, and spots where you can experience US military culture are nearby. It is also a base for summer events and festivals.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• Train: About a 15-20 minute walk from Yokosuka Chuo Station on the Keikyu Main Line, or about a 20-30 minute walk from Yokosuka Station on the JR Yokosuka Line (it's more practical to walk or take a bus from the station).
• Bus: There are buses within Yokosuka City (such as Keikyu Bus) that stop at "Mikasa Park" or "Mikasa Park Front." Please check the route and timetable in advance.
• By car: There are paid parking lots in the area, but they are limited and tend to fill up on weekends, holidays, and during events. We recommend using public transportation.
• Boats and Sightseeing: Depending on the season and events, you can combine your trip with sightseeing boats that depart from the surrounding area or ferries to Sarushima (check official information for ferry departure and arrival locations and times).

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Short tour (exterior only, strolling): 30 minutes to 1 hour
• Thorough tour (including tour of the ship's interior and document displays): 1.5 to 2 hours
• Stroll around nearby spots (Dobuita Street, Verny Park, Sarushima, etc.): Half a day to a full day

Nearby spots

• Verny Park: A seaside garden with a walking course overlooking Yokosuka Port. Known for its beautiful roses.
• Dobuita Street: A street lined with restaurants and souvenir shops influenced by the culture of the US Navy base. Perfect for gourmet food and shopping.
• Sarushima: A leisure spot on an uninhabited island. You can enjoy ruins, swimming, barbecues, and more (accessible by ferry).
• Yokosuka Museum of Art and Yokosuka Navy Curry Restaurant: Enjoy cultural facilities and local cuisine.

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• Crowds: On weekends, consecutive holidays, summer vacation, the Yokosuka Fireworks Festival, and other events, the number of visitors increases, and waiting times for parking and tours of the ship may be long. To avoid crowds, we recommend visiting early on a weekday morning.
• Important information for touring the ship: There are many steps and stairs inside the ship, and some passageways are narrow. Strollers and wheelchairs may be restricted, so please check the official website for barrier-free access information in advance. Also, please refrain from touching the exhibits.
• Safety and Manners: There are some areas along the seafront where there is a risk of falling, so please keep an eye on children. If you are bringing pets, please follow the park rules, such as keeping them on a leash and cleaning up their waste.
• Photography: Photography is generally permitted outdoors, but there may be restrictions on photography in exhibits and some facilities. Please follow the instructions of the staff and signs inside the museum.
• Weather precautions: The sea breeze can be strong and chilly. In spring and autumn, bring a windproof jacket, and in summer, bring sun protection (a hat and water).
• Check official information: Opening hours, admission fees, special exhibits, temporary closures, etc. are subject to change. Please check the official websites of Yokosuka City, Mikasa Park, and the Mikasa Memorial Ship before visiting for the latest information.

Mikasa Park is a place where you can learn about history and also spend some relaxing time by the sea. Enjoy the impressive sight of the warships and the atmosphere of the port town of Yokosuka.