202 ASIA: REPORT The heart of Japan Cruising to Kyoto Prefecture offers travellers a fresh way to explore the natural and cultural treasures of one of Japan’s most popular tourist destinations Kyoto Prefecture, home to Japan’s ancient imperial capital, is one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations. As the cultural heart of Japan, the prefecture offers a wealth of natural and historical treasures, from the shrines and gardens of the city to the scenic landscapes of the northern coast. Less well known, however, is that the many sights of the region can be visited onboard a cruise ship. Kyoto Maizuru Port is accessible through an inlet eight kilometres from the open sea, where cruise guests are greeted with a coastal landscape surrounded by mountains. The bay is well sheltered, with calm waters and a tidal range of less than 30 centimetres throughout the year, making it a safe and easy place to berth. The 2nd Quay features a passenger terminal, which was opened in 2021 and is equipped with customs, immigration and quarantine functions, as well as a waiting space that includes a nursing room and toilet. The International Quay, meanwhile, can accommodate larger ships of over 130,000gt. Cruise ships can also anchor in Miyazu Bay or further up the coast in Ine Bay. When cruise ships dock at Kyoto Maizuru Port, guests have access to a tourist information counter offering informative pamphlets and maps of the area in multiple languages, as well as a currency exchange counter to ensure they are prepared for their visit. They also benefit from a free wi-fi service. Maizuru City offers a range of culinary treats for guests to sample. Nikujaga, a type of beef stew eaten across Japan, is said to have been created in the city when a Japanese citizen who had studied in England returned home and recreated the stew he had enjoyed while abroad Pictured clockwise from top left: Scenic view of Amanohashidate; Asuka II welcomed to Maizuru; Costa Serena docked at Kyoto Maizuru’s 2nd Quay; Nariai-Ji Temple overlooking Amanohashidate Photo: Kyoto Maizuru Port
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