Yokosuka Travel Guide

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News 2024.03.21

Chiyogasaki Battery Cherry Blossom Festival 2024

Join us for the Chiyogasaki Battery Cherry Blossom Festival 2024. From March 20th (Wednesday) to March 29th (Friday), over a span of 10 days, a Sakura Festival will be held. While it is usually open only on weekends and holidays, the site will be specially open on weekdays as well during the festival period, to allow visitors to enjoy the historic site’s beautiful white Oshima cherry blossoms.

Festival Information: Chiyogasaki Battery Cherry Blossom Festival 2024

Discover the rich history and natural beauty of Chiyogasaki Battery, nestled in the heart of Yokosuka.

This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know to make the most of your visit, from fascinating insights into its historical significance to practical tips for a safe and enjoyable experience.

Whether you’re planning a leisurely stroll among cherry blossoms or eager to explore the underground facilities, embark on an unforgettable journey through this treasured site.

Dates and hours

March 20, 2024 to March 29, 2024 (Weekends and holidays included)

9:30 AM to 4:30 PM (Admission until 4:00 PM)

In the event of heavy rain, flood warnings, storm warnings, typhoon approach, snowfall, or other adverse weather conditions, the site may be temporarily closed. Updates on opening days are shared via the X(Twitter) account of the Chiyogasaki Battery Site Supporters’ Association.

Chiyogasaki Battery Site Supporters’ Association X(Twitter)

Admission & Reservation

Free of charge; no reservation required. However, groups of 10 or more are asked to contact the relevant department in advance.

Contact Information

Education Bureau Secretariat, Lifelong Learning Section, Education General Affairs Department
TEL: 046-822-8484

Official Website

Yokosuka City Official Website

Location

Chiyogasaki Battery Site(6-5-1 Nishiuraga, Yokosuka-shi, Kanagawa 239-0824)

About Chiyogasaki Battery

Chiyogasaki Battery is a Western-style battery constructed by the army on Hiraneyama, where the Aizu Domain built a fortress in the late Edo period. Due to its well-preserved original appearance, it has been designated as a national historic site, alongside Sarushima Battery, as it holds significance in understanding Japan’s modern military and fortress construction techniques. It has also been recognized as a component cultural property of Japan’s heritage.

Moreover, it serves as a satellite facility for the “Yokosuka Route Museum,” which connects the history, culture, and nature of Yokosuka City through various routes, turning the entire city into a vast museum experience.

Atmosphere of the Underground Facilities

One of the distinctive features of the Chiyogasaki Battery Ruins is the opportunity to explore the underground facilities, including the gun emplacements and associated ammunition depots. The ambiance of these subterranean spaces is sure to provide a unique and photogenic experience.

Facing the Sea

Perched atop a hill approximately 65 meters above sea level, the Chiyogasaki Battery Ruins offer stunning views of the surrounding seascape. While the ascent to the battery ruins involves navigating uphill slopes, the reward is panoramic vistas overlooking the Uraga Strait of Tokyo Bay. On clear days, you can even catch sight of the Boso Peninsula nearby.
During chilly winter days, looking out over the Kuriohamma Bay side may afford views of majestic Mount Fuji in the distance.

Event Highlights: A Weekend of Cherry Blossoms, Culture, and Cuisine

This special “Chiyogasaki Battery Cherry Blossom Festival 2024” event brings together the traditions of the past with the vibrancy of the present. Indulge in a variety of experiences, from gourmet delights served by local food trucks to engaging workshops and enchanting musical performances.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply in search of a unique way to celebrate the season, this event promises memorable moments for everyone.

Enjoying Oshima Cherry Blossoms

Experience the beauty of white Oshima cherry blossoms blooming within the historic site.

Food Trucks

On March 20th (Wednesday/holiday), 23rd (Saturday), and 24th (Sunday), the Uraga Shoyukai (Uraga Shopping Center Promotion Association) will feature kitchen cars and other vendors.

Workshops

Engage in bamboo cannon shooting and windmill-making workshops. All events are free of charge, and no reservation is required.

Musical Performance

On the 23rd (Saturday) at 10:30 AM, enjoy a Koto performance by the Yokosuka Sogo High School Koto Club.

Notes: How to Explore

Explore the historic site of Chiyogasaki Battery by following these essential guidelines. Ensure you wear appropriate footwear, adhere to safety protocols, and consider environmental factors for a pleasant and responsible visit to this cherished landmark.

1. Wear comfortable shoes such as sneakers due to slippery slopes and muddy areas within the historic site.

2. Watch out for areas where there’s a risk of falling. Do not climb over fences or embankments, and keep an eye on children at all times.

3. Guided tours only in the underground facilities (No reservation needed, please come directly to the site).

4. Vending machines are available within the historic site.

5. Water for handwashing is not drinkable.

6. There is no running water on-site, and toilets are bio-toilets.

7. No open flames are allowed within the historic site. Smoking is prohibited.

8. Be cautious of strong winds that can blow objects away in the above-ground areas.

9. Please do not damage or litter within the historic site.

10. Drone photography without the approval of the city’s Board of Education is not permitted within the historic site.

Detailed Information: Cherry Blossom Festival 2024

Public Transportation

⒈ From Uraga Station on the Keikyu line, please locate bus stop #2 near the station. Take the Keikyu Bus labeled ‘久19 for Keikyu-Kurihama Station via Uraga Hospital and Chiyogasaki.’ Disembark at Tomyodo Iriguchi (燈明堂入口). It’s approximately a 15-minute walk from there.

⒉ At Keikyu-Kurihama Station on the Keikyu line, please locate bus stop #2 nearby. Board the Keikyu Bus labeled ‘久29 for Nagase 2-chome.’ Exit the bus at ‘Nagase 2-chome (長瀬二丁目).’ It’s approximately a 20-minute walk from there.

⒊ From Keikyu-Kurihama Station on the Keikyu line, find bus stop #2 by the station. Take Keikyu Bus “久29 for Nagase 2-chome.” Get off at “Nagase 2-chome(長瀬二丁目).” It’s about a 20-minute walk from there.

Access map from bus stops (PDF: 569KB)

By Vehicles

Access and parking for vehicles (including bicycles and motorcycles) within the Chiyogasaki Battery Ruins are prohibited.

Please utilize the designated parking spaces available at either the Chiyogasaki Battery Ruins Parking Area (for bicycles and motorcycles as well) or the paid parking at Tomyodo Green Space.

Additional Information

1. The event will proceed in the rain (contents may change), and will be canceled in case of severe weather.

2. In case of rain, the performance by the Yokosuka Comprehensive High School Koto Music Club will be canceled.

3. All workshops and other events are free and require no reservation.

4. Drinking alcohol is not permitted on the premises, but eating is allowed (except in the underground facilities).

Afternote: Spring Delights

Join us at the Chiyogasaki Battery Ruins for this event to enjoy the breathtaking cherry blossoms and various activities. We look forward to your visit!

Chiyogasaki Battery: Opening Days and Hours

Open on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays (except from December 29 to January 3). Closed on weekdays.

October to February — 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM (last entry at 3:00 PM)
March to September — 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM)

The site may be temporarily closed in the event of severe weather conditions such as heavy rain, floods, storm warnings, approaching typhoons, or expected snowfall. Your understanding and cooperation are appreciated.

Information about opening days is announced on the Twitter account of the Chiyogasaki Battery Site Supporters Association.

X(Twitter)

Website

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