Yokosuka Travel Guide

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News 2023.08.30

MEGURU PROJECT 2023: Discover Yokosuka’s New Attraction

MEGURU PROJECT 2023
September 23, 2023 (Holiday) – October 9, 2023 (Holiday)
7 days on weekends and holidays

Location: Around Uraga Dock in Yokosuka City

What is MEGURU PROJECT 2023?

2023 Meguru Project Ukiyo-e of Black Ships and photo of Commodore Perry. Theme: Uraga Dock returning to samurai era.

“MEGURU PROJECT 2023” is a 7-day comprehensive event where history meets cutting-edge technology, encompassing music, art, theater, and cuisine. Take a time-travel journey back to 170 years ago, during the historic arrival of Commodore Perry.

In 1853, four steamships led by Commodore Perry appeared in Uraga. Now, 170 years later, the Uraga Dock transforms into a mystical space where the “end of the Edo period” and the “modern day” intertwine.

In addition, we will create new tourist resources such as Uraga Port tour centered on Uraga, and implement initiatives to enhance the value as a tourist base in the eastern area centered on the Uraga area.

Event dates for MEGURU PROJECT 2023: Sep 23, 24, 30, Oct 1, 7, 8, and 9.

Event and content information will be updated periodically.

About “MEGURU” in “MEGURU PROJECT”

The term “MEGURU” (巡る・めぐる) is a Japanese word that means to “go around” or “circulate”. It embodies the idea of exploring, journeying, and experiencing various facets of something. In the context of this project, it signifies the exploration and appreciation of Uraga’s rich history and culture.

Featured Events

Members of the musical group raising swords onstage with special guest on the right.

Spectacle Stage “Uraga Story”

Free. No resevation required.

Dates: Saturday, October 7th / Sunday, October 8th / Monday, October 9th

Showtimes: ①1:00 PM / ②4:00 PM

Photo of the luminous drones creating the shape of a ship against a night sky.

Drone Show

Free. No reservation required.

Date: September 23rd from 7:30 PM to 8:00 PM.

Night event at Uraga Dock with blue-lit stage and enthusiastic audience.
Night event at Uraga Dock with blue-lit stage and enthusiastic audience.

Yokosuka Premium Stage powered by Billboard Live

Paid. Available for purchase on the day and for pre-booking.

Dates: Saturday, September 30th / Sunday, October 1st

Time: Doors open at 4:00 PM, Show starts at 5:00 PM

Reservation Method:
Reserve Here

Hotel Stay Packages with Event Tickets

Hotel New Yokosuka Stay Package

Hotel Newport Yokosuka Stay Package

Beer poured into a widening glass against a white backdrop.
Beer poured into a widening glass against a white backdrop.

World Craft Beer Fest

#Taste

Paid. No reservation required.

Every day from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

Asakusa Hanayashiki logo, panda car, and customers enjoying games on a white background.

170th Anniversary Collaboration with Asakusa Hanayashiki

#Watch

Both free and paid options available. No reservation required.

Every day from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Stage Events

Historical Heritage at Uraga Dock
Experience exclusive stage plays and special jazz live performances only at MEGURU Project 2023. Dive into the ambiance of the end of the Edo period with a variety of programs crafted for your enjoyment.

Members of the musical group raising swords onstage with special guest on the right.

Spectacle Stage “Uraga Story” Produced by 30-DELUX

#Recommended

Free. No reservation required.

Dates: Saturday, October 7th / Sunday, October 8th / Monday, October 9th

Location: Port Stage
Showtimes: ①1:00 PM / ②4:00 PM

Dive into a story filled with the fervor of the end of the Edo period, set in Uraga 170 years ago during Commodore Perry’s arrival.

Special Appearance: Moemi Katayama

Illuminated drone sketching a ship image in the night sky.

Drone Show x Period Drama: Illuminating Uraga’s History in the Night Sky

#Recommended

Free. No reservation required.

Date: Saturday, September 23rd
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:00 PM.

A first for Yokosuka! Experience a historical tapestry of Uraga brought to life by drones.

Redcliff Inc., one of Japan’s largest drone show operators, will paint the night sky with an original animation themed around Uraga’s rich history.

After setting the mood with a live jazz performance, the Uraga period drama will commence, culminating in the drone show at the event’s climax!

Night event at Uraga Dock with blue-lit stage and enthusiastic audience.

Yokosuka Premium Stage powered by Billboard Live

#Recommended

Paid. Available for purchase on the day and for pre-booking.

Dates: Saturday, September 30th / Sunday, October 1st

Time: Doors open at 4:00 PM, Show starts at 5:00 PM

Location: Dock Stage

Price: ¥6,000 (tax included) Note: The price covers three acts per day.

Experience a special music festival in Yokosuka, one of the birthplaces of post-war Japanese jazz, in collaboration with Billboard Live!

Additional Information:

  • Open seating (standing) with rest seats available.
  • Same price for adults and children (infants who cannot stand on their own are not allowed).
  • Wheelchair accessible seating available (please contact the organizer before purchasing tickets).
  • Children in elementary school or younger must be accompanied by a guardian.

Reservation Method:
Reserve Here

Hotel Stay Packages with Event Tickets

Hotel New Yokosuka Stay Package

Hotel Newport Yokosuka Stay Package

Five individuals as colorful ninjas posing energetically against an Omatsuri-themed backdrop.

“Hanayashiki Troupe” Original Stage Show

Free. No reservation required.

Dates: Saturday, September 23rd / Sunday, September 24th / Saturday, September 30th / Sunday, October 1st

Each show lasts 30 minutes, with two shows daily. However, on September 24th (Sunday), there will be only one show.

The popular “Hanayashiki Troupe” returns in the second collaboration celebrating the 170th anniversary with Asakusa Hanayashiki.

Jazz trio: bassist playing, drummer jamming, and pianist in tuxedo at the keys.

Authentic JAZZ Band “Shinji Mori Trio” Live!

Free. No reservation required.

Dates: September 23rd (Sat) from 5:30 PM to 6:15 PM, and October 9th (Holiday) from 5:45 PM to 6:30 PM.

Introducing the authentic jazz trio band featuring Shinji Mori, who served as the rhythm keeper for the Sadao Watanabe Quartet for seven years. Joined by Kotaro Tsukahara on piano and Junichi Furusato on bass, this trio delivers the “real sound” with their vast domestic and international experience and unparalleled talent.

Left: Comedian Kinnikun in shorts and tank-top smiling. Right: Female MC with bob haircut in white top.

Muscle Ambassador “Kin-Ni-Kun” is headed to Uraga!

Free. No reservation required.

Date: September 24th (Sun) from 4:30 PM to 5:15 PM

Is the comedian “Kin-Ni-Kun” docking in Uraga? He’s taken on the role of Muscle Ambassador for the MEGURU Project 2023 Uraga Power! Festival.

Besides his main performance, there’s buzz that he might pop up in surprise spots around the venue!

Join us in marking the 170th anniversary of Perry’s arrival, filled with laughs and muscle power.

Featuring MC: Shizuka Midorikawa and others.

Eight band members holding instruments posing on a staircase.

U.S. 7th Fleet Band “Orient Express Rock Band”

Free. No reservation required.

Date: Sunday, September 24th from 3:00 PM to 3:45 PM.

A special live performance by the U.S. Navy’s 7th Fleet Band.

Band Name: Orient Express Rock Band

Three sparklers burning at night, emitting sparks.

MEGURU Tournament Senko Hanabi Competition

Paid. No reservation required.

October 7th from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM.

A championship battle between the Uraga Port Festival champion and the MEGURU Project 2023 champion. Image is for illustrative purposes.

Conductor leading a student orchestra performance at Uraga Dock with visible bricks.

Special Live Performance by Yokosuka Comprehensive High School Wind Orchestra

Free. No reservation required.

October 7th from 11:00 AM to 11:45 PM.

A special live performance by the Yokosuka Comprehensive High School Wind Orchestra. Image from last year’s event.

Collage: 'Uraga Night Art with History' over ocean, fireworks, Uraga-class vessel, and ship boiler view.

Projection Mapping

Free.

October 9th (Holiday) from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM. Each screening lasts about 10 minutes with multiple sessions.

Projection mapping displayed on Japan’s oldest existing brick dock.

Yokosuka Premium Stage powered by Billboard Live

Night event at Uraga Dock with blue-lit stage and enthusiastic audience.

#Recommended

Join us for a special music festival in Yokosuka, a birthplace of post-war Japanese jazz, in collaboration with Billboard Live!


Dates: Saturday, September 30th / Sunday, October 1st
Time: Doors open at 4:00 PM, Show starts at 5:00 PM
Location: Dock Stage
Price: ¥6,000 (tax included). This covers three acts per day.

Reservation Method
Reserve Here: Clicking this link will take you to the WAmazing page for reservations.

Hotel Stay Packages with Event Tickets

Hotel New Yokosuka Stay Package

Hotel Newport Yokosuka Stay Package

Artists Line-up DAY 1

September 30th, 5:00 PM Start

SPECIAL OTHERS

Photo of four quartet musicians with sunglasses posing confidently in front of a red brick wall adorned with a vibrant winged graphic.

A quartet instrumental band formed in 1995 by high school classmates from Yokohama.

GENTLE FOREST JAZZ BAND

21-member jazz band playing passionately against a mustard grain background.

A 21-member swing jazz orchestra led by Gentle Kubota of “Zainichi Funk”.

Mamoru Shinji Trio

Jazz trio: bassist playing, drummer jamming, and pianist in tuxedo at the keys.

A jazz band centered around the “living legend” of the jazz world, Mamoru Shinji.

Artists Line-up DAY 2

October 1st, 5:00 PM Start

ALI

Ali photo: Main vocalist seated up front, flanked by two band members. Tranquil park with tall trees as backdrop. Black and white image exuding confidence.

A seven-member multinational band with a mix of funk, soul, jazz, Latin, and hip-hop.

BENI

Sepia-toned image of a Beni with semi long hair, looking back with enchanting eyes.

A soul-pop singer-songwriter from Okinawa and raised in Yokosuka.

XinU

Photo of the XinU in a blue plaid dress looking over her shoulder.

An up-and-coming singer-songwriter influenced by jazz, R&B, bossa nova, and pop.

Additional Information

Open seating (standing) with rest seats available.

Same price for adults and children. Infants who cannot stand on their own are not allowed.

Wheelchair accessible seating available (please contact the organizer before purchasing tickets).

Children in elementary school or younger must be accompanied by a guardian.

MEGURU PROJECT 2023 Special Contents

Experience a variety of content that delves into the history of Uraga, all set within an atmosphere reminiscent of the end of the Edo period. With collaborations like the Hanayashiki event and the Craft Beer Fest, there’s something for everyone, from children to adults!

Beer poured into a widening glass against a white backdrop.

World Craft Beer Fest

Every day from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Join us at the birthplace of Japan’s international relations for a gathering of craft beers from around the world. Enjoy a variety of local beers and gourmet foods all in one place.

#Recommended

#Taste

Paid. No reservation required.

Asakusa Hanayashiki logo, panda car, and customers enjoying games on a white background.

170th Anniversary Collaboration with Asakusa Hanayashiki

Every day from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Embark on a journey through 170 years of history and immerse yourself in the allure of traditional Japan.

This collaborative event offers a rich blend of history and the timeless charm of Japan. With attractions like the Panda Car, mini merry-go-round, traditional Japanese festival games, battery cars, and photo spots, there’s plenty for kids to enjoy!

#Recommended

#Watch

Both free and paid options available. No reservation required.

Photo of a group of tourists looking down at Uraga Dock, standing in front of the fences.

Guided Tour of the Historic Uraga Dock

Dates: September 23rd (Sat), September 24th (Sun), October 7th (Sat), October 8th (Sun), October 9th (Mon)

Times: 11:30 AM, 12:30 PM, 1:30 PM, 2:30 PM (Each tour lasts 40 minutes)

Join us for a guided tour around the historically significant Uraga Dock. Learn about its origins, functions, and more.

#Watch

Paid. No reservation required.

Couple walking through the brick tunnel at Chiyogasaki Battery Ruins.

Chiyogasaki Battery Ruins Guided Tour (with shuttle bus)

Every day at 11:30 AM and 1:30 PM. Each tour lasts 90 minutes.

Tour the Chiyogasaki battery ruins, a designated Japanese heritage site, with a guide.

#Learn

#Watch

#Explore

Paid. No reservation required.

Cruise ship sailing in the sunny Uraga Harbor

Uraga Historical Cruise (Japanese version)

Dates: September 23rd (Sat), September 24th (Sun), October 8th (Sun), October 9th (Mon)

Times: 11:30 AM, 1:30 PM, 2:30 PM (Each cruise lasts 30 minutes)

Embark on a short cruise from Uraga Harbor, enjoying views of the Tomyodo while tracing the offshore points where Commodore Perry’s fleet anchored.

Onboard, a guide will provide an engaging and comprehensive explanation of Uraga’s history and its current cityscape.

#Learn

#Explore

Paid. No reservation required.

Cruise ship sailing in the sunny Uraga Harbor

URAGA Historical Cruise (English version)

Dates: September 23rd (Sat), September 24th (Sun), October 8th (Sun), October 9th (Mon)

Time: 12:30 PM to 1:00 PM

Take a scenic cruise from Uraga Harbor, capturing views of the Tomyodo and following the offshore points where Commodore Perry’s fleet anchored.

Aboard, an English-speaking guide will delve into Uraga’s rich history and its modern-day charm. This cruise offers foreigners a touch of Uraga’s history, while locals can savor a foreign ambiance.

#Learn

#Explore

Paid. No reservation required.

Kawama Dock with brick walls covered in greenery, reflected in the water under a blue sky.

Kawama Dock Tour with a Guide and a ‘Black Ship’

Dates: Daily
Time: 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM

Experience a unique tour comparing the Uraga Dock and Kawama Dock.

#Learn

#Watch

#Explore

Paid. No reservation required.

Tourists enjoying an open-top bus tour with a guide.

Open-Top Bus Tour: Cosmos Blooms in Kururihama & The MEGURU Project

Dates: Daily
Times:
① 9:30 AM – 11:45 AM ② 1:00 PM – 2:45 PM

Meeting Point: Verny Park, inside the Tibodie House

Price: ¥1,500 (tax included)

Experience the refreshing sea breeze on a double-decker open-top bus tour around Yokosuka, culminating in a visit to the Uraga Dock during the MEGURU Project. As a special treat during the peak of the cosmos blooming season at “Kururihama Flower Country,” receive a complimentary “Aji-Fu Rye” (アジ麩ライ) gift!

Reservation Method:
Reservations are now open on the Yokosuka City Tourism Association website.
Reserve Here

Itinerary:
Start at Tibodie House in Verny Park (Departs 9:30 AM) → View the Memorial Ship Mikasa → Drive along Yokosuka Beach Street → Stop and explore Kururihama Flower Country (Receive “Aji-Fu Rye & Drink” gift) → View Perry Park → End at Uraga Brick Dock (Arrives 11:45 AM)

#Learn

#Explore

Paid admission. Advance reservations required.

Notes:
Same price for adults and children. Children not yet in school and not using a seat are free.

White frame electric bicycle with a black tires

Satellite Tour with e-BIKE and Hello Cycle

Every day

Location: Around Keikyu Line Uraga Station

Explore the hidden gems of the Route Museum on guided tours using e-BIKEs and rental bicycles.

#Explore

Paid.

Yokosuka students participating in a workshop

Craftsmen Grew Up at the Dock: A Workshop Documenting Former Workers

Exhibition Period: Daily Workshop Dates: September 2nd (Sat), 10th (Sun), 17th (Sun)

Join us in this workshop where we interview and document the experiences of the workers who once supported the prosperity of Uraga Dock.

Through videos and panels, attendees can learn about the techniques of the past, what took place at the Uraga Dock, and the pride these workers had in their jobs.

It’s a journey into a bygone era of Yokosuka and Uraga.

#Learn

Four Meguru Uruga Premium Gift Vouchers on a gradient background.

Uraga Shoyukai Booth

Every day from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM

1. Premium gift voucher sales, available in limited quantities starting September 23rd.

2. Food and beverage sales, featuring local popular eateries and souvenir shops.

Image is for illustrative purposes.

No reservation required.

#Taste

Historical photo of Commodore Perry's iron pot

Exhibition of the Pot Left by Perry

Every day from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Display of the “stew pot” left behind by Commodore Perry.

Image is for illustrative purposes.

#Learn

#Watch

Free. No reservation required.

Collection of ocean plastics and recycled accessories

Making Accessories with Ocean Plastic – Fun Learning about Coastal Beautification

Dates: September 30th (Sat) and October 1st (Sun) from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM

Engage in a hands-on workshop where you can craft original pendants using microplastics recovered from the ocean floor. Through this workshop, participants will gain insights into the importance of coastal beautification.

Image is for illustrative purposes.

#Learn

Paid. No reservation required.

Four plush toys crafted in a workshop

Create Your Own Stuffed Animal!

Dates: October 7th (Sat), 8th (Sun), and 9th (Holiday) from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM

A workshop where you can create your own stuffed animal, choosing from various shapes and designs, including “sea creatures” and “Commodore Perry”. Customize with pens, felt, beads, sequins, yarn, and more.

Image is for illustrative purposes.

#Learn

Paid. No reservation required.

Red electric tuk-tuk cruising along the coastline

Yokosuka Sightseeing on an Electric Tuk Tuk (Rental)

Every day from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Rent the trendy electric tuk tuk for sightseeing in Yokosuka.

Note: Drivers are required to present a valid driver’s license.

#Explore

Paid. No reservation required.

Access to Uraga Dock Venue


Uraga Dock with red brick walls, staircases, plaza with reflective puddle, blue sky, and distant mountains.

By Train:

10-minute walk from Keikyu Uraga Station.

By Car:

Parking space for visitors is limited. We strongly recommend using public transportation if possible.

CAUTION

Event details are subject to change or cancellation without prior notice. We appreciate your understanding.

To confirm whether the event will take place, please contact the Yokosuka City Call Center at 046-822-2500 after 8:00 AM on the day of the event.


Regarding Bringing Pets to the Event Venue

For guests planning to attend with pets, please adhere to the following rules to ensure an enjoyable experience for everyone:

1. Keep your pets in a cage, cart, or similar containment at all times.
2. Pets are allowed at the free stages.
3. We kindly ask that you refrain from bringing pets to the paid stages. This includes the “Premium Stage powered by Billboard Live” on September 30th, October 1st, and the “Uraga Story” on October 7th, 8th, and 9th.
4. Even if your pet is contained, if they are causing a disturbance such as loud noises, event staff may approach you regarding the matter.


Yokosuka Route Museum

Yokosuka Route Museum Logo

Find,
connect,
feel.
New Yokosuka.

Collage: Nagaura Warehouse, West Kano Shrine Torii, Kannonzaki Lighthouse sunset, and Kannonzaki Gun Battery tunnels.

What is Yokosuka Route Museum? From the opening of the country to modern times, historical and cultural spots and nature-rich spots scattered in Yokosuka are called “satellites”. By connecting them with a “route”, the entire city was regarded as a large “museum”. This is a new way to enjoy Yokosuka.

Access to Yokosuka

1 hour from Tokyo Station

1 hour from Haneda Airport

About15 minutes from Kamakura

The nearest stations are Keikyu Line “Yokosuka Chuo Station” and JR “Yokosuka Station”.

Here is the list of main spots for the Yokosuka Route Museum.