
Tokyo Neighborhood Guides: Things to Do in Yokosuka
Yokosuka's historical heart lies at Mikasa Park, where the legendary Mikasa battleship is dry-docked for all to explore. Once Vice Admiral Togo Heihachiro's flagship during the Russo-Japanese War of 1904–1905, this British-built warship is now a hands-on floating museum. It's the oldest surviving steel battleship in the world, and friendly staff help you navigate the decks and exhibits. The park besides it has musical fountains and sculptures with plenty of space for kids to roam. Bring a bento or grab a bite from nearby cafes.
82-19 Honcho, Yokosuka | ¥500
Dubbed 'Monkey Island' (though monkeys are long gone), Sarushima is Yokosuka's uninhabited island and a surreal escape just 10 minutes offshore. The remnants of military barracks, brick tunnels and open barbecue zones make it popular with families, couples, and yes—cosplayers. In peak season, the beach area fills up quickly, so get there early to claim a good spot. No dogs allowed, but plenty of photo ops and a rustic vibe that feels far removed from the mainland.
Board from Mikasa Pier | Roundtrip ferry: ¥2,000
Kannonzaki Park is a lush coastal zone with forest trails, playgrounds, and a panoramic view over Tokyo Bay. The Kannonzaki Lighthouse is open for visits, and the climb rewards you with breathtaking sea views. Pair your trip with a stop at the nearby Yokosuka Museum of Art, a glass-walled space featuring Japanese modernist and contemporary art. The onsite Acquamare restaurant serves Italian-inspired seasonal dishes with a view—book a window or patio seat if you can, but best in spring and autumn when the weather is nice.
4 Chome-1 Kamoi, Yokosuka | Free Entry
Dobuita Street is your go-to for these all-American-style beef giants. You can't get more classic than Honey Bee, which first opened its doors back in 1968 and still reigns as the original Navy Burger joint. Here, retro diner charm and long-established recipes bring you back to the good ol' days – expect juicy patties, saucy buns, and plenty of cheese. TSUNAMI is another local favourite, offering loaded combos, fun toppings, and even burgers named after U.S. presidents. Expect to pay around ¥1,400–¥2,000.
Thanks to its naval roots, Yokosuka proudly claims to be Japan's curry capital. Try Gyorantei, still going strong with its Meiji-era navy recipes and rustic maritime interior. For a full curry-themed experience, stop by Yokosuka Port Market (now renovated), where local vendors sell take-home packs and curry-inspired snacks.
Steps from Hashirimizu Beach, Kaneyo Shokudo is a laidback beach café serving summer cocktails and refreshing seafood plates. In Yokosuka itself, find award-winning ramen at Tokyo Bay Fisherman's Noodle. Located at the newly renovated Port Market, the ramen at this joint is made with 100% shellfish and uses a variety of clams to give the broth a gentle yet powerful flavor. Their Shio Ramen won first place in the Newcomer Award at the 2021 TRY Ramen Awards, whilst their Mazesoba won second place in the 'Soup Soba' category.
Want to explore more of Tokyo? Check out our Tokyo Day Trip guides to Okutama and Enoshima.
Live jazz every Saturday and a lovingly curated guitar shop upstairs. Relax in a vintage Showa-era atmosphere whilst the owner jams with guests.
Yokosuka's loudest live house, loved by locals and visitors alike. This tiny venue has a rowdy atmosphere that far exceeds its size.
Still one of the most atmospheric post-dinner stops in town. Vinyl-only jazz cafe/bar that serves craft cocktails in a smoky, intimate setting—perfect for winding down.
You might also like reading: Why Japanese People Don't Say 'I Love You'
Yes, it's still standing! Yokosuka's beloved Godzilla slide is the crown jewel of this sprawling floral park. Come in May for the poppies, or fall for cosmos season. The park is also a ferry port to Chiba.
Boasting sweeping views across Tokyo Bay, this hot spring complex features several different baths and facilities to aid relaxation, including an open-air bath, reclining bath, carbonated hot spring, sauna, relaxation area, and restaurant.
Beyond the main tourist trail, Yokosuka's side alleys—especially around Yonegahama and Honcho—offer Showa-era izakaya, coffee dens, and vintage snack bars still untouched by time. Step off Dobuita for a more local, low-key encounter.
To get to Yokosuka from Shinagawa Station, take the Keikyu Line to Yokosuka-Chuo (approx. 40 mins). Most major sights are walkable or reachable by local bus. Ferries for Sarushima depart from Mikasa Pier. Kannonzaki is accessible via bus 24 from Yokosuka-Chuo.
English menus are common, but not guaranteed.
Many restaurants are closed on Mondays or Tuesdays.
Best visiting season: May–June and late September for mild weather and fewer crowds.
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Tokyo Weekender
17 hours ago
- Tokyo Weekender
Hidden Gems Along the Yamanote Line
First-time visitors to Japan are often advised to 'stay on the Yamanote Line' — and for good reason. The circular train line loops around central Tokyo, covering many of the city's major shopping districts, cultural sites and more. Some key stations include Shinjuku, Shibuya, Ueno, Ikebukuro and, of course, Tokyo. The famous green loop, however, also includes several overlooked neighborhoods that hold distinct charm and history of their own. If you need a change of pace from Tokyo's most touristy areas, or if you're looking for a quieter neighborhood to stay in, read on! Below, we introduce some of the Yamanote Line's hidden gems. List of Contents: Nippori: Textiles and Nostalgic Paths Komagome: Peaceful Gardens Sugamo: 'Grandma's Harajuku' Mejiro: A Stylish, Historic Neighborhood Gotanda: Hidden Eateries and Izakaya Related Posts Nippori: Textiles and Nostalgic Paths Known as Tokyo's textile district, Nippori preserves a nostalgic shitamachi (old downtown) atmosphere. Nippori Fabric Town, a 1-kilometer-long street, is a treasure trove for designers, hobbyists and craft lovers, boasting a vast selection of fabrics, buttons and sewing accessories. The neighborhood provides a glimpse into the quieter side of Tokyo. Yanaka Ginza, located in close proximity on the opposite side of Nippori Station, is a shopping street lined with traditional snack stalls, charming cafes and cat-themed art. Try delicacies like menchi katsu (fried minced meat cutlet), and check out Tennoji Temple, famous for its beautiful bronze Buddha statue. rikugien kyu furukawa gardens Komagome: Peaceful Gardens The serene neighborhood of Komagome is home to Rikugien, one of Tokyo's most beautiful and meticulously crafted gardens. Designated an Important Cultural Asset in 1953, the garden exemplifies the tranquility of Edo-period landscaping and is known for its breathtaking weeping cherry tree. Not far away is the equally impressive Kyu-Furukawa Garden, which presents a fascinating blend of cultures. A Western-style brick mansion and a charming rose garden sit atop a hill, while a traditional Japanese garden, with a pond and teahouse, lies below. When visiting the neighborhood, be sure to remain quiet and respectful, as it's largely a residential area. kogan-ji temple Sugamo: 'Grandma's Harajuku' Right next to Komagome is Sugamo, a distinctive shopping area affectionately called 'Grandma's Harajuku.' Jizo-dori shopping street is brimming with shops and restaurants catering to an older demographic, with everything from traditional sweets like shio-daifuku (salted rice cakes) to the area's famous red underwear, believed to bring good health and luck to the wearer. The neighborhood's spiritual heart is Kogan-ji Temple, where visitors can participate in a ritual to pray for health. During the ritual, participants pour water on a body part of the Arai Kannon ('washing deity') statue. It's said that ailments or pain in that same area will ease. mejiro garden Mejiro: A Stylish, Historic Neighborhood Surrounding Mejiro Station, Mejiro is a sophisticated residential neighborhood known for its refined atmosphere and historic ties to Japanese nobility. The area is most distinguished by its academic heritage; it is home to the prestigious Gakushuin University, which was established to educate the children of the imperial family and aristocracy. Head to Mejiro Garden, a traditional Japanese strolling garden with a pond and teahouse, for a peaceful stroll. It's especially gorgeous during the autumn foliage season, enveloped in red and gold. Mejiro's streets are lined with upscale homes, charming cafes and boutiques. Gotanda: Hidden Eateries and Izakaya Situated between Osaki and Meguro stations, Gotanda, surrounded by high-rise office buildings, manages to retain its lively and diverse food scene. The area is particularly well known for having an abundance of izakaya (Japanese pubs) and other dining options, from casual eateries to high-end establishments. Some of its notable izakaya include Shokudo Todaka , which offers a cozy atmosphere and creative, visually appealing tapas-style dishes; Taishu Sakaba Beetle Gotanda , a classic izakaya with yakitori and grilled dishes; and Nichinan , a rustic space known for its grilled beef skewers. Related Posts 5 Hidden Tokyo Neighborhoods Tourists Often Miss The Ultimate Guide to Nakameguro: Tokyo's Stylish Canal-Side Gem What to See in Ueno Park: Museums, the Zoo and Beautiful Scenery


Tokyo Weekender
17 hours ago
- Tokyo Weekender
The Most Beautiful Fall Foliage Spots in Osaka
It's never too early to start fantasizing about autumn in Japan, a time when the air is crisp, streets are blanketed in golden-brown leaves and cozy hojicha drinks start popping up at cafes. While Kyoto may be the Kansai region's most famous destination for autumn leaves, Osaka offers its own unique and stunning spots. From the picturesque Minoh Waterfall to the iconic ginkgo-lined Midosuji Street, here are some of the most beautiful fall foliage spots in Osaka. List of Contents: Osaka Castle Park Midosuji Street Expo '70 Commemorative Park Minoh Park Katsuoji Temple Hoshida Park Daisen Park's Japanese Garden Daiitokuji Temple A Note on Timing Related Posts Osaka Castle Park While Osaka Castle Park is a beautiful site to visit year-round, it's especially breathtaking in the fall, when its ginkgo trees turn a brilliant golden yellow. You'll also find fiery-red maples of several varieties all around the historic castle grounds, as well as seasonal blooms like the orange and white blossoms of fragrant olive trees. Midosuji Street Midosuji Street, a boulevard running through the heart of Osaka, offers a distinctly urban take on autumn foliage. The 4-kilometer avenue is transformed by the changing leaves of the approximately 970 ginkgo trees that line both sides of the street, creating a corridor of yellow that extends from the Kita (Umeda) district in the north to the Minami (Namba) district in the south. japanese garden Expo '70 Commemorative Park Often simply referred to as 'Expo Park,' this park — the site of the 1970 World Exposition — is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. In autumn, the abundant vegetation creates spectacular autumnal scenes. Stroll around the park and admire Japanese maples, ginkgoes and sycamores, or enjoy a picnic with a book. Prime viewing spots include Momiji-dani (Maple Valley), the Japanese garden and the natural and cultural gardens, where you'll also find hundreds of thousands of multicolored cosmos flowers from mid-October to early November. Minoh Park Part of the expansive Meiji-no-Mori Minoh Quasi-National Park, Minoh Park is the perfect day trip destination from central Osaka — it's only a 30-minute subway ride away via the Midosuji Line. The park is home to Minoh Waterfall, which is most beautiful during the autumn, when it's framed by vibrant red, orange and yellow leaves. Make sure to try momiji tempura (fried Japanese maple leaves), a local specialty. Katsuoji Temple Further up the mountain from Minoh Waterfall is Katsuoji, a treasured local spot for both foliage viewing and its hundreds of daruma dolls, its main distinguishing feature. This Buddhist temple sits on over 260,000 square meters of land and is famous for granting kachi-un — winner's luck — to patrons about to face an important test, job interview or other challenge. Read more about Katsuoji and Minoh Park in our guide to Minoh city . hoshida park Hoshida Park For a more adventurous autumn experience, head to Hoshida Park in Katano city to hike lush trails. The mountainous foliage spot is famous for the Hoshi no Buranko, a magnificent 280-meter-long suspension bridge that sits 50 meters above a forested valley. From this vantage point, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the vibrant autumn colors, with the crimson leaves of the maple trees blanketing the surrounding hillsides. Daisen Park's Japanese Garden Located in Sakai city, the Japanese garden in Daisen Park is the perfect serene setting to enjoy fall foliage. The traditional circular garden built around a central pond is shrouded in enchanting shades of red and gold in the fall, a scene that's beautifully reflected in the water. In November, you can also admire delicate chrysanthemums, cultivated by members of a local chrysanthemum association. The garden regularly hosts tea ceremonies and workshops, so check out its website before heading over. courtesy of jnto Daiitokuji Temple Perched atop Mount Ushitaki, Daiitokuji is famous for its incredible autumn foliage. It's accessible via train and bus from Osaka Station, but it takes about 2 hours to reach. The temple is part of the sacred Katsuragi Shugendo pilgrimage trail, and although much of the original complex was destroyed by warfare, the vermilion tahoto (two-tiered treasure pagoda) — a National Important Cultural Property — remains a centerpiece. Against a backdrop of crimson leaves, the pagoda is truly stunning. Visitors can also explore a hiking course behind the temple, which winds through waterfalls and suspension bridges. A Note on Timing While the leaves turn at a slightly different time each year, you can typically expect to see peak colors in Osaka around mid-November to early December. Japanese speakers can check sites like Koyo Walkerplus for location-specific estimates. Related Posts Minoh City: An Enchanting Day Trip From Osaka With Beautiful Fall Foliage Kyoto Fall Leaves at Night: 7 Must-See Japanese Maple Illuminations The Ultimate Guide to Autumn Foliage In and Near Tokyo


The Mainichi
21 hours ago
- The Mainichi
Then and now: Photos taken in 1945 and 2025 show transformation in Japan following war
TOKYO -- During World War II, American bombers flew over Japan, and the incendiary bombs they dropped reduced cities to ashes, forcing children to evacuate in groups. Ground battles in Okinawa, the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, and massive air raids across Japan, including the capital, claimed many lives. It is estimated that over 3 million people died during the war, although the exact number of casualties remains unknown. After the war, survivors gradually developed the landscapes of rubble into the Japan that stands today. In Tokyo's Ginza area, where people can be seen walking in the "pedestrian paradise" zone closed to vehicles during certain hours on weekends and holidays, it is now difficult to find traces of the war. Photographs taken after the war capture the breath of people striving to survive and the harsh conditions of the postwar period. Visiting the scenes depicted in those photos prompts a renewed reflection on the significance of peace.