Discovering Hikawa Maru | Day Tours from Tokyo April 2025
Credits: Pinterest (Hikawa Maru Ship permanently docked in Yokohama)
If you're planning a day tour from Tokyo to Yokohama, Japan, and you're looking for a unique blend of maritime history and nostalgic elegance, a visit to the Hikawa Maru should be on your list. Docked permanently at Yamashita Park, this beautifully preserved ocean liner offers a rare glimpse into the glamour of early 20th-century sea travel.
What is the Hikawa Maru?
Nicknamed the “Queen of the Pacific,” the Hikawa Maru is a historic passenger ship that first set sail in 1930. Built by the renowned NYK Line (Nippon Yusen Kaisha), she served as a trans-Pacific ocean liner, connecting Yokohama with Seattle and Vancouver. The ship was known for its luxury, first-class amenities, and celebrity passengers—including the famous silent film actor Charlie Chaplin.
From Luxury Liner to Wartime Hospital Ship
Hikawa Maru's journey wasn't just about transporting passengers in style. During World War II, the ship was converted into a hospital ship, a rare distinction that allowed it to survive the war relatively unscathed—unlike her sister ships, which were lost in action. After the war, she resumed service as a passenger liner before retiring in 1960.
Credits: 日本郵船氷川丸
Why Visit the Hikawa Maru Today?
Now open as a floating museum, the Hikawa Maru offers visitors a chance to explore its lavish interiors, including:
First-class cabins and elegant dining rooms with art deco designs
The engine room, showcasing the ship’s original machinery
Historical exhibits on the ship’s wartime role and trans-Pacific voyages
Panoramic views of Yokohama Bay from the deck
Walking through the ship feels like stepping back in time—each room is meticulously restored and full of period details, offering a rich and immersive experience.
Whether you’re a history lover, a maritime enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful stop with great photo ops, the Hikawa Maru offers a memorable and enriching experience. It's the perfect place to reflect on Japan’s global connections, wartime resilience, and the golden age of ocean travel—all while enjoying the sea breeze and views of Yokohama’s scenic waterfront. Book a Yokohama Tour with us as a day trip from Tokyo and explore the historic Hikawa Maru alongside our knowledgeable Tokyo tour guide for an unforgettable journey into the past.
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