Last updated：
In this article, we summarize the impressive warships you can encounter on the Yokosuka Naval Port Cruise.
For more details about the Yokosuka Naval Port Cruise, check out the following articles:
Read more about Yokosuka Naval Port Cruise
One of the most enjoyable aspects of the Yokosuka Naval Port Cruise is the variety of ships you can see up close, with a different lineup on every trip.
Here are some of the ships you might encounter:
JS Izumo is renowned for its culinary team, which is famous for creating desserts of exceptional quality.
In the foreground is 173 “Kongō,” with 177 “Atago” in the background.
These two ships are guests, making their appearance in Yokosuka a rare sight. Spotting such uncommon vessels is part of the Yokosuka Naval Port Cruise’s unique appeal.
From right to left: “JS Teruzuki,” “JS Takanami,” “Aegis Destroyer Kongō,” “Aegis Destroyer Atago,” “JS Kirishima,” and “JS Towada.”
Left: “110 JS Takanami” • Right: “116 JS Teruzuki”
Left: “423 JS Towada” • Right: “174 JS Kirishima”
This is an Aegis ship from the United States.
The JMSDF’s multipurpose destroyers “Kumano” and “Mogami.”
Their unique design is characteristic of stealth destroyers.
This submarine is the latest addition to the JMSDF fleet. You can see its designation “513” prominently displayed, along with “Taigei” written on the side. Such markings are only visible on newly commissioned submarines.
Once deployed, these identifiers are often removed due to the covert nature of submarine missions.
These include the submarine rescue ship “Chiyoda” and the mine-sweeping support ship “Uraga,” which play critical roles in rescue and threat removal missions.
These large ships provide fuel, supplies, and personnel to support the next mission for minesweepers and mine-sweeping support vessels.
Minesweepers are specialized ships designed for mine removal operations. Built small for maneuverability, they can operate even in narrow areas. Examples include “Enoshima” and “Etajima.”
604 Minesweeper “Enoshima”
306 Minesweeping Ship “Etajima”
This is the 5104 Oceanographic Research Ship “Wakasa.”
Oceanographic research ships are a type of naval ship designed for scientific studies. Their primary mission is to collect data on seabed topography, sediments, and magnetic noise, which influence anti-submarine warfare operations. The data they gather are critical for navigation planning and more.
The special duty vessel “Hashidate” is equipped for VIP receptions and can also serve as a medical ship during emergencies, flying the Red Cross flag. It features hotel-like accommodations for dignitaries.
The ships docked at Yokosuka Naval Port represent the front line of Japan’s maritime security. From cutting-edge submarines like “Taigei” to specialized ships like the minesweeper “Enoshima,” each plays a vital role in protecting our way of life.
The cruise offers an exceptional opportunity to photograph these vessels. The sight of JMSDF and US Navy ships anchored together is a spectacle unique to Yokosuka. Its proximity to Tokyo makes it an attractive day-trip destination.
Though the cruise lasts just 45 minutes, it provides profound insights into Japan’s maritime defense, advanced technologies, and the historical significance of Yokosuka.
Don’t miss the Yokosuka Naval Port Cruise—an unforgettable experience awaits!
![[Yokosuka] Battleship Mikasa: You can experience an existing battleship up close. The only place in Japan.](/_astro/thumbnail-en.cZxjoqLa_ZYR1RT.webp)
