Explore Nippon Maru’s Maritime Legacy

Docked gracefully in Yokohama’s Minato Mirai district, the Nippon Maru is more than just a ship—it’s a living museum that sails through Japan’s maritime history. Built in 1930 as a training vessel for cadets, this majestic sailing ship served for 54 years, training over 11,500 cadets and traveling the equivalent of 45.4 times around the globe before retiring in 1984.

🏛️ History & Significance

The Nippon Maru was designed to prepare Japan’s future merchant marine officers. After its retirement, it was permanently moored in Yokohama and opened to the public in 1985. In 2017, it was designated a National Important Cultural Property, preserving its legacy for generations to come.

📍 Location & Transportation
Address: 2-1-1 Minato Mirai, Nishi-ku, Yokohama
By Train:
- 5-minute walk from Sakuragicho Station (JR Negishi Line)
- 5-minute walk from Minatomirai Station (Minatomirai Line)
- From Tokyo Station: ~35 minutes
- From Haneda Airport: ~40 minutes

🕰️ Operation Hours & Entrance Fee
- Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry 4:30 PM)
- Closed: Mondays (or Tuesday if Monday is a holiday), year-end holidays
- Admission:
- Nippon Maru: ¥400
- Yokohama Port Museum: ¥500
- Combo ticket: ¥800
- Students: ¥300 / Seniors: ¥400
- Special Saturday rate for students: ¥100

🌟 Must-Do Activities
- Explore the Ship: Tour the Captain’s Quarters, hospital, kitchen, and cadet bunks. Many guides are former cadets, offering rich personal stories.
- Full-Sail Exhibition: Held 12 times a year, volunteers unfurl all 29 sails—a spectacular sight for photographers.
- Yokohama Port Museum: Learn about the port’s history, maritime trade, and shipbuilding through interactive exhibits.
- Ship Simulator: Navigate a virtual cruise ship through Yokohama’s harbor—complete with changing weather and time settings.
- Yanagihara Ryohei Art Museum: Discover whimsical marine-themed illustrations by the creator of Suntory’s “Uncle Torys.”
- Papercraft Workshops: Held on Sundays and holidays—great for families and kids.
- Nearby Attractions: Visit Landmark Tower, Cup Noodles Museum, Cosmoworld, and Yokohama Chinatown—all within walking distance.

✨ Why Visit?

Whether you're a history buff, art lover, or curious traveler, Nippon Maru offers a hands-on journey into Japan’s maritime soul. With its elegant design, immersive exhibits, and scenic waterfront location, it’s a must-visit gem in Yokohama.