NYK Hikawa Maru: A Floating Time Capsule
Explore the NYK Hikawa Maru: Yokohama's historic ocean liner, offering a glimpse into luxurious trans-Pacific travel and wartime history.
Step aboard the NYK Hikawa Maru and journey back in time to the glamorous era of ocean travel. Launched in 1929, this historic vessel served as a passenger and cargo liner on the Yokohama-Seattle route, hosting notable figures like Charlie Chaplin. During World War II, the Hikawa Maru was converted into a hospital ship, surviving three mine strikes. Today, it stands as a museum ship, offering a unique perspective on Japan's wartime experiences. Explore the ship's meticulously restored Art Deco interiors, including the first-class dining room, lounge, and deluxe cabins. Wander through the engine room and wheelhouse, and delve into the ship's history through engaging exhibits. The Hikawa Maru is not only a testament to shipbuilding technology but also a Nationally Important Cultural Property, offering visitors a tangible connection to the past.
Local tips
- Check the official website for closure dates, especially Mondays (unless it's a national holiday).
- Consider purchasing a combination ticket for both the Hikawa Maru and the nearby NYK Maritime Museum (currently closed and scheduled to reopen in 2026) for a comprehensive experience.
- Take advantage of the 50 yen discount at the Yokohama Doll Museum by showing your Hikawa Maru ticket stub.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking and the ship is not fully accessible for wheelchairs.
- Visit the open deck on weekends and holidays for panoramic views of Yokohama Port, Yamashita Park, and Minato Mirai.
A brief summary to NYK Hikawa Maru
- Yamashitacho, 山下公園地先, Yokohama, Yamashitacho, Naka Ward, Kanagawa, 231-0023, JP
- +8145-641-4362
- Visit website
- Tuesday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4:30 pm
Getting There
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Walking
From Motomachi-Chukagai Station (Minatomirai Line, Exit 1), the NYK Hikawa Maru is a short, approximately 3-minute walk. Exit the station and walk towards Yamashita Park; the ship is moored at the edge of the park and is easily visible.
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Public Transport
Take the Yokohama City Bus to Yamashita Park. Several bus routes stop near the park. From Yokohama Station, take bus routes 8, 58, or 101. A single bus fare is ¥220 for adults and ¥110 for children. Consider a one-day bus pass for ¥600 if you plan to use the bus multiple times.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Yokohama. A short taxi ride from Yokohama Station to the NYK Hikawa Maru (Yamashita Park) will cost approximately ¥800-¥1200, depending on traffic. Note that there may be an additional fee added to the meter between 10 PM and 5 AM.
