Yokosuka: Guided Island Tour to Sarushima’s Forgotten Fort

Kanagawa Prefecture , Japan

Yokosuka: Guided Island Tour to Sarushima’s Forgotten Fort

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About this experience

This is not just a day trip—it’s a step into another world.

Our Sarushima tour combines history, mystery, and nature in a way few places in Japan can. You’ll board a short ferry ride with your local guide and arrive at Tokyo Bay’s only natural island—an uninhabited former military outpost now overgrown with moss, vines, and silence.

What sets this tour apart is the exclusive guided experience through hidden tunnels, stone ruins, and forgotten artillery platforms—places that most visitors pass by without understanding. Your guide will bring the island’s dramatic story to life, from samurai-era defenses to Meiji-era military secrets.

With no cars, no crowds, and no commercialization, Sarushima offers an untouched atmosphere that feels like a real-life movie set. It’s the perfect escape for travelers seeking something truly off the beaten path—mysterious, beautiful, and deeply connected to Japan’s past.

Short ferry ride. Deep discovery. A journey you won’t forget.

Available options

Yokosuka: Guided Island Tour to Sarushima’s Forgotten Fort

What's included

Round-trip ferry ride

Ferry fare

Visit to hidden chambers and tunnels

Photo opportunities

Guided tour of Sarushima

Detailed itinerary

Your journey to Sarushima begins with a short but scenic ferry ride from Mikasa Pier in Yokosuka. As you cross Tokyo Bay, the city slowly fades behind you and a sense of adventure takes over. In just 10 minutes, you’ll arrive at Japan’s only natural island in the bay—a place untouched by modern development and rich in history.

Once a vital military outpost, Sarushima is now uninhabited, covered in greenery, and filled with remnants of its past. You’ll walk along quiet forest trails, explore moss-covered stone walls, red-brick tunnels, and artillery remains, and enjoy sweeping views of the sea. The island’s peaceful, overgrown ruins often remind visitors of a Ghibli movie scene.

With no cars, no residents, and nature slowly reclaiming the land, Sarushima feels like a step back in time. It’s the perfect blend of mystery, beauty, and serenity—just a short boat ride away from the mainland.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The meeting point is in front of the statue of Heihachiro Togo. Your guide will be waiting for you with a yellow sign. Please refer to the map for details.

About Kanagawa Prefecture

Kanagawa Prefecture is a vibrant region just south of Tokyo, offering a mix of modern cities, historic sites, and stunning natural landscapes. Known for its scenic coastline, cultural landmarks, and proximity to Mount Fuji, it's a perfect blend of urban convenience and natural beauty.

Top Attractions

Yokohama Chinatown

One of the largest Chinatowns in the world, offering a vibrant mix of Chinese culture, food, and shopping.

Cultural 2-4 hours Free to explore, budget for food and shopping

Kamakura

A historic town with numerous temples, shrines, and the famous Great Buddha statue.

Historical Full day Moderate (entry fees for temples)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Shumai (Chinese dumplings)

Steamed dumplings filled with pork and shrimp, a popular street food in Yokohama Chinatown.

Snack Contains meat, can be made vegetarian.

Ishikiri Nabe

A hot pot dish with seafood and vegetables, a specialty of Kamakura.

Dinner Seafood-based, can be adapted for dietary restrictions.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Kamakura Scuba diving in Enoshima Onsen in Hakone Strolling in Yokohama's parks Visiting temples in Kamakura Exploring Yokohama Chinatown Beach activities in Enoshima Skiing in nearby resorts

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)

These seasons offer pleasant weather with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. Ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English, Chinese
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Kanagawa is generally safe with low crime rates, but standard precautions should be taken.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use reputable taxi services
• Be cautious of strangers offering help

Getting there

By air

Tokyo Haneda Airport • 20 km from Yokohama

By train

Yokohama Station

By bus

Yokohama Bus Terminal, Kawasaki Station Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Efficient and punctual, covering major cities and attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Minato Mirai Kamakura

Day trips

Hakone

80 km from Yokohama • Full day

A scenic hot spring resort town with views of Mount Fuji and traditional ryokan.

Enoshima Island

50 km from Yokohama • Half day

A small island known for its shrines, caves, and scenic views of the coast.

Festivals

Kamakura Festival • April 3-5 Yokohama Summer Festival • July to August

Pro tips

Use IC cards like Suica or Pasmo for convenient and discounted public transport.
Visit popular attractions early in the morning to avoid crowds.
Try local specialties like shumai and ramen for an authentic culinary experience.
Pack comfortable walking shoes for exploring historical sites and streets.
Learn basic Japanese phrases to enhance your interaction with locals.