【Fleet Collection -Kantai Collection- Yokosuka, Kanagawa Prefecture】
Fleet Collection (Kantai Collection) is a browser game that has captivated many admirals since its service launch in 2013. Visiting real military ships that serve as models for the ship girls appearing in the game, and locations with historical significance, has become a special experience for Kantai Collection fans—a form of pilgrimage to sacred sites.
This article provides a comprehensive introduction to Kantai Collection sacred site pilgrimage spots centered on Kanagawa Prefecture. From the site of the Yokosuka Naval District Headquarters and other historical locations, to filming locations featured in the anime adaptation “Someday at That Sea,” as well as shrines and memorial halls connected to the ship girls, this guide comprehensively covers all the sacred sites that admirals should visit.
The Deep Connection Between Kantai Collection and Kanagawa Prefecture
“Yokosuka Naval District Headquarters” as the Initial Server Name
One of the first servers established when Kantai Collection’s service began was called “Yokosuka Naval District Headquarters.” This refers to one of the four major naval districts of the former Imperial Japanese Navy that once existed in Yokosuka City, Kanagawa Prefecture—a symbolic name that connects the game’s worldview with actual history.
Yokosuka developed as a key point of Japan’s coastal defense following Commodore Perry’s arrival in the late Edo period. After the Meiji Restoration, it functioned as the center of the Imperial Japanese Navy, and many warships were constructed and stationed there. Today, the tradition continues as the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Yokosuka Regional District Headquarters.
Why Kanagawa Prefecture Became the Setting
Kanagawa Prefecture, particularly Yokosuka City, occupies the most important position as a sacred site for Kantai Collection. The reasons are as follows:
- Historical Background: Location of the former Imperial Japanese Navy Yokosuka Naval District Headquarters
- Extant Facilities: Military heritage sites that can actually be visited, such as the memorial battleship Mikasa and the gun battery ruins of Sarushima
- Accessibility: Located approximately one hour from Tokyo by train
- Tourist Appeal: Streets full of foreign charm and cuisine such as naval curry
Must-Visit Sacred Sites in the Yokosuka Area
Yokosuka Naval District Headquarters Site (Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Yokosuka Regional District Headquarters)
Location: 1-chome Nishi Henmi-cho, Yokosuka City, Kanagawa Prefecture
The former site of the Imperial Japanese Navy’s Yokosuka Naval District Headquarters is currently used by the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Yokosuka Regional District Headquarters. Public access is limited, but the historical structures can be viewed from outside.
Highlights:
- Brick buildings constructed in the Meiji period
- Gate pillars remaining from the Naval District era
- View of escort ships moored (viewable from beyond the fence)
Access: Approximately 15 minutes on foot from Yokosuka Chuo Station on the Keikyu Line, or by bus to the “Sōkan-bu mae” stop
Visiting Tips: During the self-defense force events held several times a year, it is possible to enter the base for more detailed viewing. It is recommended to check the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force website in advance for public access dates.
Memorial Battleship Mikasa
Location: 82-19 Inaoka-cho, Yokosuka City, Kanagawa Prefecture
The battleship Mikasa, which served as the flagship of the Combined Fleet in the Battle of the Japan Sea during the Russo-Japanese War, is now preserved and displayed at Mikasa Park as a memorial ship. In Kantai Collection, “Mikasa” is implemented as a playable character, making this a must-see spot for fans.
Highlights:
- A rare opportunity to tour inside an actual battleship
- Views from the bridge
- Displays of period documents and equipment
- Recreation of Admiral Togo Heihachiro’s office
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (last admission at 4:30 PM)
Admission: General 600 yen, High school students 300 yen, Elementary and middle school students free
Access: Approximately 15 minutes on foot from Yokosuka Chuo Station on the Keikyu Line, or by bus to the “Mikasa Park” stop
Advice for Kantai Collection Fans: The exhibition materials inside the ship are extremely comprehensive, allowing for a deep understanding of Imperial Japanese Navy history. The experience becomes more enjoyable when viewing it while imagining connections to other ship girls appearing in Kantai Collection.
Sarushima
Location: Yokosuka City, Kanagawa Prefecture
The uninhabited island of Sarushima floating in Tokyo Bay retains fortress ruins that were used from the end of the Edo period through World War II. In Kantai Collection, it holds significant meaning as a defense point, and appeared in the anime adaptation.
Highlights:
- Brick gun battery ruins and tunnels
- Remains of ammunition storage and barracks
- Observation spot overlooking Tokyo Bay
- Atmosphere full of foreign charm (compared to Laputa)
Access: Approximately 10 minutes by ship from Mikasa Pier (schedule varies by season)
Boarding Fare: 1,500 yen round trip (island entry fee included)
Time Required: Approximately 2–3 hours to explore the island
Important Notes:
- Operation may be suspended due to weather
- There are no shops on the island; bring food and drinks in advance
- Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
Verny Park
Location: 1-1 Shioiniri-cho, Yokosuka City, Kanagawa Prefecture
A park named after Verny, the French engineer who supervised the construction of the Yokosuka Ironworks (later the Yokosuka Naval Arsenal). The park features displays related to ships, and escort ships moored across the water can be viewed up close.
Highlights:
- Display of the main gun (41cm cannon) from the battleship Mutsu
- Exhibition of ship components such as screws and propellers
- Excellent viewing point for observing escort ships moored nearby
- Beautiful roses bloom in spring
Access: 1 minute on foot from Yokosuka Station on the JR line
Entry Fee: Free
Photography Spot: This is a popular photography location for Kantai Collection fans, as both escort ships and the park landscape can be photographed together. The view at dusk is particularly spectacular.
Yokosuka Navy Curry Honpo
Location: Various locations in Yokosuka City
“Curry,” which is an important item in the Kantai Collection game, has its origins in Yokosuka, which is known as the birthplace of navy curry. The city has many curry specialty shops.
Recommended Establishments:
- TSUNAMI: Recreation of Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force recipes
- Yokosuka Navy Curry Honpo: Abundant retort curry for souvenirs
- EM Club: Original founder of navy curry
Connection to Kantai Collection: Some establishments offer menus named after “Mamiya” and “Irataka,” which appear as “supply ships” in the game. As a lunch option during your pilgrimage, be sure to try authentic navy curry from its birthplace.
Sacred Sites in the Yokohama Area
Nippon Yusen Hikawa Maru
Location: Yamashita Park, Yamashita-cho, Naka Ward, Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture
The Hikawa Maru, which served as a luxury passenger ship before the war and was used as a hospital ship during wartime, does not directly appear in Kantai Collection but holds high historical value as a ship from the same era, making it a popular destination for many admirals.
Highlights:
- Interior of the luxury ship era
- Hospital ship exhibits
- Tours of the wheelhouse and engine room
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM (last admission at 4:30 PM)
Closed: Mondays (if a holiday, closed the following weekday)
Admission: General 300 yen
Access: Approximately 3 minutes on foot from Motomachi-Nakadori Station on the Minatomirai Line
Yokohama Port Grand Pier
Location: 1-1-4 Kaigan-dori, Naka Ward, Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture
Functioning as an international cruise ship terminal, the Grand Pier is known among Kantai Collection fans as a location visited by the Shiratsuyu-class sisters in the anime adaptation. The rooftop deck offers a panoramic view of Yokohama Harbor, and it is sometimes possible to see Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force ships moored there.
Highlights:
- 360-degree panoramic view from the rooftop deck
- Yokohama’s nighttime scenery
- Large passenger ships and naval vessels moored in the harbor
Access: Approximately 7 minutes on foot from Nihonodori Station on the Minatomirai Line
Entry Fee: Free (the rooftop deck is also freely accessible)
Sacred Sites in Tokyo and Nearby Areas in Kanagawa Prefecture
Antarctic Research Vessel Soya (Museum of Ship Science)
Location: 3-1 Higashi Yashio, Shinagawa Ward, Tokyo
Featured in the Kantai Collection anime “Someday at That Sea” and mentioned as a location visited by the Shiratsuyu-class sisters, the Soya actually served as an Antarctic research vessel and is now preserved and displayed at the Museum of Ship Science.
Highlights:
- Recreation of the ship interior during Antarctic research era
- Tours of the wheelhouse and engine room
- Historical materials on Antarctic research
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Closed: Mondays (if a holiday, closed the following weekday)
Admission: Free
Access: Approximately 2 minutes on foot from Museum of Ship Science Station on the Yurikamome Line
Shinagawa Daisan Daiba (Daiba Park)
Location: 1-10-1 Daiba, Minato Ward, Tokyo
Gun battery ruins built by the Edo shogunate in preparation for Perry’s arrival, this site appeared in the Kantai Collection anime. Now developed as a park, it is possible to view the remains of the historical fortification.
Highlights:
- Edo period gun battery ruins
- Landscape views of Rainbow Bridge and Tokyo Bay
- Structure of historical defensive facilities
Access: Approximately 15 minutes on foot from Odaiba Kaihin Koen Station on the Yurikamome Line
Entry Fee: Free
Shrine Pilgrimage at Ship Girl Sacred Sites
Kinugasa Shrine
Location: 4-1202 Koyabe, Yokosuka City, Kanagawa Prefecture
A shrine that was enshrined in the onboard Shinto shrine of the heavy cruiser Kinugasa. For fans of the ship girl “Kinugasa” in Kantai Collection, this is a particularly special place.
Pilgrimage Points:
- Many ema (prayer plaques) featuring the ship girl “Kinugasa” are dedicated here
- Located in a quiet residential area with a peaceful atmosphere
- Known as a sacred site among Kantai Collection fans
Access: From Yokosuka Chuo Station on the Keikyu Line, take a bus to “Kinugasa Jūji-ro” stop and walk approximately 10 minutes
Hashiriizu Shrine
Location: 2-12-5 Hashiriizu, Yokosuka City, Kanagawa Prefecture
An ancient shrine dedicated to Yamato Takeru and his wife Otohime Tachibana, revered as a deity of maritime safety. Among Kantai Collection fans, it is known as a place to pray for the safety of ship girls.
Highlights:
- The legend of Otohime Tachibana (the story of throwing herself into the sea to save her husband)
- View of Tokyo Bay from within the shrine grounds
- Prayer plaques dedicated by Kantai Collection fans
Access: From Maborikaikoku Station on the Keikyu Line, take a bus to the “Hashiriizu Shrine” stop
Kanō Shrines (East and West) in Uraga
Location: Uraga, Yokosuka City, Kanagawa Prefecture
Two Kanō Shrines sit on either side of Uraga Port. Known as a power spot for maritime safety and for wishes coming true, it is also popular among Kantai Collection fans as a pilgrimage destination.
Pilgrimage Characteristics:
- The “comma bead pilgrimage” visiting both East and West shrines is popular
- Can experience crossing the port on the Uraga ferry
- High historical significance as the location of Perry’s arrival
Access: From Uraga Station on the Keikyu Line, take a bus to “Konoyacho” stop and walk approximately 5 minutes
Sample Model Courses for Kantai Collection Pilgrimage
One-Day Yokosuka Course (Approximately 8 hours)
9:00 AM Arrival at Yokosuka Chuo Station
↓ 15-minute walk
9:15 AM Verny Park exploration (30 minutes)
- View of the Mutsu battleship main gun
- Photography of escort ships
↓ 10-minute walk
10:00 AM Yokosuka Naval District Headquarters (Regional Headquarters) exterior viewing (30 minutes)
↓ 15 minutes by bus
11:00 AM Memorial Battleship Mikasa tour (90 minutes)
- Thorough ship interior viewing
- Rest at Mikasa Park
↓ 5-minute walk
12:30 PM Lunch with navy curry (60 minutes)
↓ 10-minute walk
2:00 PM Departure from Mikasa Pier to Sarushima
- 10 minutes by ship, 120 minutes exploring the island
5:00 PM Souvenir shopping in Yokosuka Chuo Station area
- Kantai Collection merchandise
- Retort navy curry
6:00 PM Return journey
Yokohama and Tokyo Combined Course (2 Days/1 Night)
Day 1: Yokosuka Area
- Morning: Memorial Battleship Mikasa, Sarushima
- Afternoon: Yokosuka Naval District Headquarters site, Verny Park
- Evening: Kinugasa Shrine pilgrimage
- Accommodation: Yokosuka or Yokohama
Day 2: Yokohama and Tokyo Area
- Morning: Hikawa Maru, Yokohama Port Grand Pier
- Afternoon: Shinagawa Daisan Daiba, Antarctic Research Vessel Soya
- Evening: Odaiba exploration
Preparation and Important Notes for Kantai Collection Pilgrimage
Pre-Visit Preparation
Packing Checklist:
- Camera or smartphone (don’t forget chargers)
- Kantai Collection character reference materials (images of favorite ship girls)
- Prayer book for collecting shrine stamps (if visiting shrines)
- Comfortable walking shoes (you’ll walk considerable distances)
- Beverages (essential when visiting Sarushima)
Information Gathering:
- Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force public access event dates (several times a year, base access available)
- Sarushima ferry operation schedule (may suspend due to weather)
- Operating hours and closed dates for each facility
Etiquette During Visits
Photography:
- Some areas of Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force facilities prohibit photography
- Be considerate of other shrine visitors
- Follow indoor rules at display facilities such as Memorial Battleship Mikasa
About Cosplay:
- Generally avoid cosplay in public spaces
- Engage in cosplay only in approved locations during events
Respect for Local Community:
- Keep noise levels low at shrines in residential areas
- Always take trash with you
- Do not trespass on private property
Seasonal Recommendations
Spring (March–May):
- Roses at Verny Park are in bloom (May)
- Ideal weather for exploring
- Beautiful fresh greenery at Sarushima
Summer (June–August):
- Frequent Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force public access events
- Sea swimming also available at Sarushima (July–August)
- Heat precautions essential
Autumn (September–November):
- Stable weather ideal for pilgrimage
- Beautiful autumn leaves (November)
- Many events held
Winter (December–February):
- Clear skies ideal for photography
- Fewer tourists allow for leisurely viewing
- Warm clothing necessary
Kantai Collection Merchandise and Souvenir Information
Kantai Collection-Related Merchandise Available in Yokosuka
Yokosuka Tourist Information Center (in front of Yokosuka Chuo Station):
- Kantai Collection shrine stamp plates
- Kantai Collection stamps
- Original merchandise
Memorial Battleship Mikasa Museum Shop:
- Mikasa-related merchandise
- Naval history publications
- Original T-shirts, keychains
Navy Curry Honpo:
- Various retort navy curries
- Kantai Collection collaboration curry (limited time)
- Curry-related merchandise
Recommended Souvenirs
- Navy Curry Retort Set: Yokosuka’s standard souvenir
- Memorial Battleship Mikasa Original Merchandise: Limited items available only here
- Yokosuka Navy Curry Bread: Available at station shops
- Kantai Collection Shrine Stamps: A keepsake from shrine visits
Access Information
Access to Yokosuka from Tokyo
Train:
- Keikyu Line: Approximately 45 minutes from Shinagawa Station to Yokosuka Chuo Station (express service)
- JR Yokosuka Line: Approximately 70 minutes from Tokyo Station to Yokosuka Station
Fares:
- Keikyu Line: Approximately 630 yen one way
- JR Yokosuka Line: Approximately 990 yen one way
Discount Tickets:
- Keikyu Line “Yokosuka Satisfaction Ticket”: Round-trip ticket plus facility discount ticket set
- JR “Kamakura and Enoshima Free Pass”: Covers the Yokosuka area as well
Movement Within Yokosuka City
Bus:
- Keikyu Bus covers the entire city
- One-day pass (830 yen) is convenient
Walking:
- Major spots near Yokosuka Chuo Station are within walking distance
- Approximately 15 minutes on foot from the station to Mikasa Park
Taxi:
- Taxi stand at the station
- Approximately 1,000 yen to major spots
Accommodation Information
Recommended Hotels in the Yokosuka Area
Mercure Hotel Yokosuka:
- 3 minutes on foot from Yokosuka Chuo Station
- Popular with Kantai Collection fans
- Navy curry served at breakfast
Central Hotel Yokosuka:
- Prime location at the station
- Reasonable pricing
- Business hotel type
Accommodation in the Yokohama Area
When combining a Yokosuka and Yokohama pilgrimage, staying in Yokohama is also convenient. The Minatomirai area has numerous hotels and offers additional sightseeing opportunities.
Kantai Collection Events and Collaboration Information
Regularly Held Events
Yokosuka Curry Festival (approximately May each year):
- Taste and compare curry from various city restaurants
- Kantai Collection collaboration projects sometimes held
Yokosuka Kaiko Festival (approximately June each year):
- Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force ship public viewing
- Fireworks display
- Attracts many Kantai Collection fans
Yokosuka Harbor Curry Festa (irregular):
- Kantai Collection collaboration event track record
- Limited merchandise sales
Collaboration Cafes and Shops
Kantai Collection collaboration cafes and shops are occasionally opened within Yokosuka City. Check the official website and social media for the latest information.
Deeper Enjoyment Through Trivia
History of Yokosuka Naval District Headquarters
Established in 1884 (Meiji 17), Yokosuka Naval District Headquarters walked the path of Imperial Japanese Navy history through the First Sino-Japanese War, Russo-Japanese War, World War I, and World War II. Many warships that served as models for ship girls departed from here and were also constructed here.
Major Vessels Constructed:
- Battleships: Nagato, Mutsu (partially)
- Aircraft Carriers: Shokaku, Zuikaku
- Heavy Cruisers: Takao, Atago, Maya, Tori-Kai
Relationship Between Ship Girls and Kanagawa Prefecture
Many ship girls appearing in the game have deep connections with Yokosuka:
- Nagato: Constructed at Yokosuka Naval Arsenal
- Mutsu: Stationed at Yokosuka Naval District Headquarters
- Shokaku and Zuikaku: Constructed at Yokosuka Naval Arsenal
- Takao-class: Constructed at Yokosuka Naval Arsenal
During the pilgrimage, researching the connections between your favorite ship girls and Yokosuka allows for even deeper enjoyment.
Settings of the Kantai Collection Anime “Someday at That Sea”
The anime adaptation features stories centered on Shiratsuyu-class sisters, with many real locations in Yokosuka and Yokohama appearing:
- Yokosuka Harbor
- Yokohama Port Grand Pier
- Antarctic Research Vessel Soya
- Shinagawa Daisan Daiba
Rewatching the anime before visiting enhances the sense of immersion.
Conclusion: Maximizing Enjoyment of Your Kantai Collection Pilgrimage
Kanagawa Prefecture, particularly Yokosuka City, is the most important sacred site for Kantai Collection fans. With the memorial battleship Mikasa allowing you to experience Imperial Japanese Navy history firsthand, fortress ruins remaining on Sarushima, and the Yokosuka Naval District Headquarters site still active as a Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force facility, numerous spots allow you to experience the game’s worldview in reality.
When planning a pilgrimage, keep the following points in mind:
- Research in Advance: Confirm facility opening dates and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force event information
- Set an Efficient Route: Narrow down the spots to visit in one day
- Wear Comfortable Clothing: Anticipate considerable walking distances
- Follow Proper Etiquette: Remember consideration for local residents and other tourists
- Research Connections to Your Favorite Ship Girls: This will deepen your experience
While a day trip from Tokyo is possible, a 1–2 day stay is recommended for a thorough visit. Enjoy authentic naval curry from Yokosuka, reflect on the history supporting the ship girls, and create wonderful memories from your pilgrimage to these sacred sites.
Be sure to see for yourself the actual history supporting the Kantai Collection worldview and the charm of Yokosuka and Kanagawa Prefecture that preserves it to this day. We hope your pilgrimage becomes a cherished memory, admiral.
