181 Port of Sakitsu Port of Sakitsu is a small fishing port located in the Sakitsu Village, a site designated as a Unesco World Heritage Site as part of the Hidden Christian Sites in the Nagasaki and Amakusa region. This small community of only a few hundred people has maintained a rare harmony between Christianity, Buddhism and Shinto. The port is gaining attention as a destination for expedition cruises in Japan. Visitors can explore the Sakitsu Village, experiencing its rich traditions and local lifestyle up close. They can also enjoy fresh seafood prepared by sushi chefs who are also local fishermen. Additionally, the area offers facilities for a variety of marine activities, making it a captivating destination for shore excursions. Read more about the port: bit.ly/4hFJukb Port of Hakodate Located at the southern tip of Hokkaido, Hakodate is one of Japan’s most popular tourist destinations. Hakodate, which opened as Japan’s first port for international trade along with Yokohama and Nagasaki in 1859, has been influenced by various foreign cultures and grown into an important transportation hub between Hokkaido and Honshu. The port has two wharfs: the Wakamatsu Wharf in the city centre, which can accommodate cruise ships up to 120,000gt, and the Minato-cho Wharf, which can handle cruise vessels up to 170,000gt. With historical buildings, views from the top of Mount Hakodate, fresh seafood and hot springs, Hakodate offers both urban living and outdoor activities for visiting cruise guests to enjoy. Read more about the port: bit.ly/4hUrItx Port of Yatsushiro The new Port of Yatsushiro began full-scale operations in 2023. It is the maritime gateway to Kumamoto Prefecture in the heart of Kyushu, which is the closest region in Japan to mainland Asia. The cruise ship berth is 410 metres long and can accommodate ships up to 220,000gt. Additionally, the port has developed a new terminal and hospitality zone with souvenir shops, a food court and green spaces. Popular shore excursion options include Kumamoto Castle, one of Japan’s three great castles, and Mount Aso, which boasts the world’s largest caldera. There are also various half- and full-day tours, such as dolphin-watching, that depart directly from the base of the cliffs. Read more about the port: bit.ly/4hq6ovH
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