Kurihama Niijima ferry

Kurihama Guide

Kurihama Ferry Port

Situated in the city of Yokosuka in the Kanagawa Prefecture, Kurihama Port is found on the southern coast of Japan. With just a few crossings per week, Kurihama remains one of the most sparingly used ports in the world, though it is used as a gateway to the capital city of Tokyo. Lasting just an hour, the sailing from Kurihama to Tokyo is relatively short, making it one of the easiest and quickest ways to travel. The ferry terminal is quite small, with just one main pier in operation. There are buses taking passengers near the port area, though the district of Kurihama is fairly small, meaning that most places are within walking distance. In the centre of the town, there are a few shops, cafes and restaurants that are perfect for whiling away a few hours, though Kurihama is usually used as just a layover and few visitors stay for longer than a day. The main attraction is possibly the museum that was opened in 1987, creating a slight increase of tourism to the area. The pier is visible from a fair distance, and once there the staff are famously very friendly and happy to help any confused visitors. The crossings are supplied by Tokai Kisen and are generally comfortable and affordable.

Niijima Guide

Niijima Ferry Port

Lying in the Philippine Sea, Niijima is a volcanic Japanese island laying to the south of Tokyo. The ferry routes departing the port are to other coastal towns and cities belonging to Japan, the most common being the daily sailing to the capital city of Tokyo.

What is there to do around Niijima?

Bathing in natural hot springs whilst looking out at the deep blue waters of the Philippine Sea doesn’t sound like a bad way to spend a few hours. The Matsugasita Masayu Hot Spring and Yunohama Roten Onsen are the standout attractions on an island inundated by a myriad of interesting and adventurous landmarks. To continue exploring the great outdoors of Niijima, Habushuira Beach is the most popular beach on the island and offers beautiful views in glorious weather – an idyllic combination. Whilst at the beach, it is worthwhile grabbing a surfboard and hitting the waves. The beach is one of Japan’s most renowned and widely recognised surfing spots, and those who aren’t adept at surfing can sit back and watch the surfers tackle the intense waves. For a refreshing change of pace from the wave of surfers, the Niijima Glass Art Centre allows visitors the chance to learn the art of creating original glass product.

How do visitors get around Niijima?

The island is relatively small, so it is possible to cover much of it by foot or bicycle.