Since the Meiji era (1868-1912), Yokosuka has been developed as one of Japan's leading military ports. Today, Yokosuka is home to the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force and the U.S. Navy's Seventh Fleet, and the U.S. aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan is also deployed there. On the other hand, long-distance ferries depart from Yokosuka Shinko Port to Moji Port in Kyushu.
Facing the harbor, "Mikasa Park" preserves and exhibits "Mikasa," one of the three major memorial ships. There is also "Verny Park," a rose garden named after the French engineer who contributed to the construction of the former Yokosuka Steel Works, where visitors can see a spectacular view of many ships afloat.
The town of Yokosuka has developed along with the port. Dobuita-Dori street is a shopping street that conveys this history. After World War II, souvenir stores, bars, and tailors catering to U.S. military personnel began to line the street. Restaurants such as Yokosuka Navy Curry and Yokosuka Navy Burger have increased.
Highlights
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A powerful harbor scene with Japanese and U.S. ships.
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A shopping street with an American atmosphere, shopping, and dining.
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The name "Dobuita-dori" comes from the fact that the Dobu-gawa(ditch river) used to flow through the center of the street, which was covered with thick steel plates provided by the Navy, and this is what it was called since the Taisho era.
