Kitasui Pier

The basics

The mooring status of the different vessels isn’t known in advance, so it's a potluck which boats you’ll see on your visit. While you can walk freely around the pier area when it’s open to the public, just remember that visitors aren’t usually permitted to enter any of the ships. There may be exceptions to this on special occasions such as the fall festival that takes place in the port.

Tours occasionally are offered during the public opening hours, directly with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force. Other options include guided half- or full-day trips to Maizuru from Kyoto, which offer simple logistics and a guide who speaks your language.

Things to know before you go

• There is no admission fee to enter the Kitasui Pier area.

• A souvenir shop and restrooms are available on-site.

• For photos of the boats from a different perspective, head to the hill where the Kitasui Water Purification Plant is based.

• There’s not much shade as you walk around the pier, so bring a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen.

How to get there

The Kitasui Pier is in Maizuru, in the port area next to the Maizuru Red Brick Park. Some travelers arrive in Maizuru by cruise, but if you’re staying in Kyoto or Osaka, you can reach the pier via train to one of the Maizuru stations, followed by a taxi. Another option is to look for a day trip from either of the cities.

When to get there

The Kitasui Pier area with all the boats is open to visitors on the weekends and Japanese holidays dates, from mid-morning to mid-afternoon. If you visit outside of these times, there are sightseeing boats that ride past the vessels to give you a glimpse you wouldn’t otherwise see. If you’re a real boat fanatic, time your visit to catch the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Maizuru District Autumn Festival, which is normally in September. During this event, visitors are occasionally allowed to enter some of the boats.

Maizuru Red Brick Park

If you’re passing by the pier, you won’t miss the Maizuru Red Brick Park, which has become one of the town’s new visitor destinations. Formerly part of the naval base, the remaining warehouses have been converted into eateries, shops, and even a brick museum. It’s a pleasant place to duck into before or after a visit to the Kitasui Pier.