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Mikasa Historic Memorial Warship: A Symbol of Japanese Naval Power

Explore the Mikasa: Step aboard a historic battleship and relive Japan's naval triumph in the Russo-Japanese War at Yokosuka's Mikasa Park.

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The Mikasa is a pre-dreadnought battleship that served as the flagship of the Imperial Japanese Navy during the Russo-Japanese War of 1904-1905. Preserved as a museum ship in Yokosuka, it stands as a monument to Japan's naval victory at the Battle of Tsushima and the country's rise as a modern power. Visitors can explore the ship's decks and interior, gaining insight into early 20th-century naval technology and Japanese history.

A brief summary to Mikasa Historic Memorial Warship

  • Monday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Friday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-4:30 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends and holidays.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing stairs.
  • Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the ship and museum.
  • Check the official website for seasonal hours and special events.
  • Visit Sarushima Island, a short ferry ride from Mikasa Park, for more history and outdoor activities.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Yokosuka-Chuo Station (Keikyu Line), it's a 15-minute walk to Mikasa Park, where the ship is located. Alternatively, take a bus from JR Yokosuka Station towards Yokosuka Chuo Station (routes include “Kinugasa Station,” “Nagai,” or “Misakiguchi”) for about 10 minutes. Get off at “Otakicho” and walk 7 minutes. Bus fare is approximately ¥220 [approx. $1.50 USD].

  • Walking

    From Yokosuka-Chuo Station (Keikyu Line), exit and walk towards the waterfront. Follow the signs for Mikasa Park. The walk is approximately 15 minutes and is mostly flat. From JR Yokosuka Station, the walk is about 25 minutes.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from either Yokosuka-Chuo Station or JR Yokosuka Station to Mikasa Park will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated fare is ¥700-¥1000 [approx. $5-7 USD].

  • Parking

    There is a large pay parking lot available next to Mikasa Park. Parking rates are approximately ¥310 per hour [approx. $2 USD].

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Discover more about Mikasa Historic Memorial Warship

The Mikasa Historic Memorial Warship is a tangible link to a pivotal moment in Japanese history. Built in Britain and commissioned in 1902, the Mikasa served as the flagship of Admiral Heihachiro Togo during the Russo-Japanese War. The ship played a crucial role in the Battle of Tsushima in May 1905, where the Japanese fleet decisively defeated the Russian Baltic Fleet. This victory was a major turning point, marking the first time an Asian navy had defeated a Western power. Decommissioned in 1923, the Mikasa was slated for destruction until a preservation movement, supported by figures like American Admiral Chester Nimitz, led to its restoration as a memorial ship. Today, the Mikasa is encased in concrete in Mikasa Park, serving as a museum. Visitors can explore the ship's bridge, gun turrets, and interior spaces, experiencing what life was like for the sailors who served on board. The museum exhibits include various cannons, helms, boats, torpedoes, mannequins displaying naval actions, an educational video room, and even a virtual reality experience. Informative displays detail the history of the Russo-Japanese War, naval tactics, and the Mikasa's significance. A highlight is the wheelhouse, the command post surrounded by 35cm-thick steel plates, and the top bridge, where Commander-in-Chief Togo stood during the battle. The Mikasa offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and connect with a key chapter in naval history.

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