Introduction: The Deep Connection Between Kantai Collection and Kyoto Prefecture
“Kantai Collection -KanColle-” is a browser game that began service in 2013, where players develop and collect “Kanmusu” (Ship Girls), personified characters of former Japanese Navy warships, and continues to be beloved by many admirals (players) today. In the game, a base called “Chinjufu” (Naval District Headquarters) appears, and one of the real former Japanese Navy Naval District Headquarters that served as the setting was the “Maizuru Chinjufu” located in Maizuru City, Kyoto Prefecture.
Kyoto Prefecture, particularly Maizuru City, has become an important holy site pilgrimage destination for KanColle fans, and it has become popular as a place where fans can more deeply understand the game’s world by visiting actual naval ruins and historical buildings. This article provides a detailed introduction to the holy sites that KanColle fans should visit in Kyoto Prefecture.
Maizuru City: Japan’s Only Former Naval District Headquarters on the Japan Sea
Maizuru City is a port city located in northern Kyoto Prefecture facing the Japan Sea. A naval district headquarters, the only one on the Japan Sea side, was established in Meiji 34 (1901), and since then the city has developed as a vital military port. Today, it still houses a Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force base and remains a city with a strong legacy of naval and JMSDF history.
Maizuru Chinjufu was one of the four major naval district headquarters along with Yokosuka, Kure, and Sasebo, and is positioned as an important “Chinjufu Sea Area” within the KanColle game itself. Many Kanmusu were historically built and deployed in Maizuru, making it a place of special significance for fans.
Must-See Holy Site Pilgrimage Spots in Maizuru
Maizuru Red Brick Park
Maizuru Red Brick Park is the most important holy site pilgrimage destination. Former Navy red brick buildings, such as torpedo warehouses constructed in the Meiji and Taisho periods, have been preserved and utilized, with 8 of the 12 red brick warehouses designated as National Important Cultural Properties.
The imposing presence of the red brick warehouses embodies the world of KanColle itself, and many admirals visit to take photographs. The scenery spanning warehouses 1 through 5 is particularly spectacular, allowing visitors to appreciate the high level of naval architecture technology from the Meiji period.
Facility Information:
- Address: 1039-2 Kitasuui, Maizuru City, Kyoto Prefecture
- Hours: 9:00~17:00 (varies by facility)
- Closed: Year-end and New Year holidays (varies by facility)
- Admission: Varies by facility (some free)
- Access: About 10 minutes by Kyoto Bus from JR Higashi-Maizuru Station, get off at “Red Brick Park Mae”
Maizuru Repatriation Memorial Hall
Maizuru Repatriation Memorial Hall is a facility that conveys the history of Maizuru Port, which accepted repatriates from overseas following World War II. It displays materials related to “Return to Maizuru” registered as a UNESCO Memory of the World, and is a place that prompts deep reflection on war and peace.
While the direct connection to KanColle is limited, it allows visitors to learn about the fates of many Kanmusu after the war and what role Maizuru played. Models of repatriation ships and period photographs convey the weight of history.
Facility Information:
- Address: 1584 Taira, Maizuru City, Kyoto Prefecture
- Hours: 9:00~17:00 (admission until 16:30)
- Closed: Third Thursday of each month (or the following day if a holiday), year-end and New Year holidays
- Admission: Adults ¥400, Students ¥150, Elementary school children and under free
- Access: About 30 minutes by Kyoto Bus from JR Higashi-Maizuru Station, get off at “Repatriation Memorial Hall Mae”
Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Maizuru Regional Command Headquarters
Maizuru Regional Command Headquarters, currently an important Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force installation, offers public viewing of escort ships at the Kitasuui Pier every Saturday and Sunday (check official website for schedule). This is a valuable opportunity to see modern-day “Kanmusu,” or escort ships, up close.
Many KanColle fans look forward to viewing successor ships or ships with the same names as their favorite Kanmusu. The impressive presence of escort ships will deepen understanding of KanColle even further.
Facility Information:
- Address: 1190 Amabeshita, Maizuru City, Kyoto Prefecture
- Public viewing: Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays (may be canceled depending on ship operations)
- Admission: Free
- Access: About 15 minutes on foot from JR Higashi-Maizuru Station
- Note: Check the official website in advance for viewing schedules
Maizuru City Government Memorial Hall (Former Maizuru Chinjufu Headquarters Building)
Maizuru City Government Memorial Hall is a facility utilizing the former Maizuru Chinjufu Headquarters building constructed in Meiji 35 (1902). The solid red brick structure conveys the dignity of the Navy at that time.
Exhibits within include materials about Maizuru’s history and naval matters, making it a precious location for KanColle fans to experience the atmosphere of a Chinjufu firsthand. The building itself holds value equivalent to a National Important Cultural Property, allowing visitors to appreciate the beauty of Meiji-period Western architecture.
Facility Information:
- Address: 1039-2 Kitasuui, Maizuru City, Kyoto Prefecture (within Red Brick Park)
- Hours: 9:00~17:00
- Closed: Year-end and New Year holidays
- Admission: Free
- Access: Same as Red Brick Park
Togo Residence (Admiral Heihachiro Togo’s Residence)
Togo Residence, where Admiral Heihachiro Togo, a hero of the Russo-Japanese War, lived during his tenure as commander-in-chief of Maizuru Chinjufu, is also a must-see spot. It currently operates as a restaurant, but exterior viewing is possible (interior viewing requires reservation and confirmation).
Since KanColle features many warships from the Combined Fleet under Admiral Togo’s command, visiting the places connected to him is deeply moving.
Facility Information:
- Address: Amabeshita, Maizuru City, Kyoto Prefecture
- Exterior viewing: Open to public (interior open only during restaurant operation)
- Access: Walking distance from JR Higashi-Maizuru Station
Kanmusu Connected to Maizuru
Many warships built and deployed at Maizuru Chinjufu appear in KanColle as numerous Kanmusu. Here are some representative examples.
Major Kanmusu Built in Maizuru
Destroyers:
- Yukikaze: Known as a lucky ship, highly popular in KanColle
- Shimakaze: Famous as the fastest destroyer
- Hatsuyuki, Miyuki, Murakumo, and many other Fubuki-class destroyers
- Amagiri, Tokitsukaze, and other Kagerou-class destroyers
Cruisers:
- Aoba: Heavy cruiser, built at Maizuru Naval Arsenal
- Kinugasa: Heavy cruiser
Others:
- Chitose, Chiyoda: Seaplane tenders
Visiting Maizuru, the birthplace of these Kanmusu, will deepen your affection for them even more.
Holy Site Pilgrimage Model Courses
Day Trip Course (approximately 6 hours)
9:00 Arrival at JR Higashi-Maizuru Station
↓ Bus approximately 10 minutes
9:30-12:00 Maizuru Red Brick Park tour
- Red Brick Museum
- Maizuru Chie-gura
- Maizuru City Government Memorial Hall
↓ Lunch (around Red Brick Park)
13:00-14:00 Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force escort ship viewing (weekends only)
↓ Walking
14:30-15:30 Togo Residence area stroll
↓ Bus approximately 30 minutes
16:00-17:00 Maizuru Repatriation Memorial Hall tour
↓ Bus approximately 30 minutes
17:30 Departure from JR Higashi-Maizuru Station
1 Night, 2 Days Leisurely Course
Day 1:
- Morning: Leisurely tour of Red Brick Park area
- Afternoon: Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force facility viewing, local historic site exploration
- Evening: Maizuru Bay cruise (operates seasonally)
- Night: Enjoy Maizuru’s seafood (Maizuru fish cake, seafood cuisine, etc.)
Day 2:
- Morning: Maizuru Repatriation Memorial Hall tour
- Afternoon: Goro Sky Tower offers panoramic views of Maizuru Bay
- Return: Stop by nearby attractions such as Amanohashidate
Access Methods
By Train
From Osaka and Kyoto:
- Limited express “Maizuru” from JR Kyoto Station takes approximately 1 hour 40 minutes to Higashi-Maizuru Station
- From JR Osaka Station via Fukuchiyama takes approximately 2 hours 30 minutes
From Nagoya:
- From JR Nagoya Station via Maibara and Kyoto takes approximately 3 hours 30 minutes
By Car
From Osaka and Kyoto:
- Approximately 15 minutes from “Maizuru-Oe IC” on Kyoto Chuo Expressway
- Approximately 10 minutes from “Maizuru-Higashi IC” on Maizuru-Wakasa Expressway
Parking:
Free parking available at Red Brick Park (approximately 100 spaces)
Preparation and Etiquette for Holy Site Pilgrimage
Packing Checklist
- Camera/Smartphone: Photography is essential
- KanColle Merchandise: Decorated bags and pin badges make great conversation starters with fellow fans
- Goshuin notebook/Stamp book: Enjoy stamp rallies at various facilities
- Comfortable walking shoes: There is a lot of movement between facilities
- Rain gear: Weather changes rapidly on the Japan Sea coast
- Notepad: Record observations and impressions
Manners and Precautions
- Photography Etiquette: Photography within facilities only in designated areas. Be mindful of photography-prohibited areas at Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force facilities
- Keep quiet: Remain silent in solemn places like the Repatriation Memorial Hall
- Take trash with you: Help keep the holy site beautiful
- Consider local residents: Avoid loud voices in residential areas and nighttime noise
- Do not enter private property without permission: Be considerate of facilities like Togo Residence that are in operation
Maizuru Cuisine and Souvenirs
Maizuru Cuisine
Maizuru Fish Cake:
A specialty of Maizuru. Can be enjoyed at “Red Brick Cafe JAZZ” within Red Brick Park.
Seafood Cuisine:
Abundant dishes using fresh fish and seafood from the Japan Sea. Winter crab is especially excellent.
Navy Curry:
Fitting for a city with naval heritage, several restaurants serve navy curry.
Maizuru Nikujaga:
Maizuru is said to be the birthplace of nikujaga (meat and potato stew). Menu items named after Admiral Togo.
Recommended Souvenirs
KanColle Collaboration Goods:
Maizuru regularly hosts KanColle collaboration events with limited merchandise for sale. Check the Red Brick Park shops.
Maizuru Fish Cake:
Good shelf life makes it ideal as a souvenir.
Naval Merchandise:
Retort pouch navy curry, naval-themed accessories, and more.
Red Brick Goods:
Red brick-themed cookies, mugs, and other items.
KanColle Events and Maizuru
Maizuru City regularly hosts collaboration events with KanColle. Past events have included the following.
Examples of Major Events
Maizuru Chinjufu Opening Commemoration Event:
Around July each year, events may be held to commemorate the opening of Maizuru Chinjufu.
KanColle × Maizuru Collaboration:
Irregular collaboration events. Limited merchandise sales, stamp rallies, life-size panel displays, and more.
Red Brick Festa:
A large-scale Red Brick Park event held in autumn. KanColle-related booths sometimes participate.
Event information is announced on the Maizuru City Tourism Association’s official website and KanColle’s official Twitter, so checking before your visit is recommended.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Here are nearby attractions worth visiting along with your holy site pilgrimage.
Amanohashidate
“Amanohashidate,” one of Japan’s Three Great Scenic Views, is about 40 minutes by car or 50 minutes by train from Maizuru. Since you’ve come all the way to northern Kyoto Prefecture, be sure to stop by this famous scenic spot.
Ine’s Boathouses
The town of Ine is known for traditional boathouses built facing the sea. About 1 hour by car from Maizuru. You can enjoy Japan’s original landscape.
Goro Sky Tower
A observation tower at the summit of Goro Mountain in Maizuru City. Offers panoramic views of Maizuru Bay and allows you to enjoy the beauty of the ria coast. A spectacular spot to get a bird’s-eye view of the geography of Maizuru, the setting of KanColle.
Accommodation Information
Hotels in Maizuru City
Hotel Alsatine:
5 minutes on foot from JR Higashi-Maizuru Station. A business hotel that is clean and comfortable.
Maizuru Grand Hotel:
A long-established hotel with views of Maizuru Bay. Proud of its cuisine featuring seafood.
Hotel Mare Takata:
Near Nishi-Maizuru Station. Reasonable pricing.
Minshuku (family-run inns) and Guesthouses
For those who enjoy interacting with locals, minshuku and guesthouses are also recommended. They feature cuisine made with fresh seafood.
Best Seasons Throughout the Year
Spring (March to May)
Cherry blossom season. Blossoms around Red Brick Park are beautiful and perfect for photography. The mild weather makes this an easy time to visit.
Summer (June to August)
Events are often held around the Maizuru Chinjufu Opening Commemoration Day (July). However, rainy season precautions are necessary.
Autumn (September to November)
The most pleasant season. Many events like the Red Brick Festa occur, and autumn foliage can also be enjoyed. This is arguably the best season for holy site pilgrimage.
Winter (December to February)
Severe weather typical of the Japan Sea coast may occur. However, this is the time to enjoy winter delicacies (such as crab). The red brick warehouses in snowy landscapes are dreamlike.
Recording Your Holy Site Pilgrimage on Social Media
Here are some tips for sharing your holy site pilgrimage memories on social media.
Recommended Hashtags
- #KanColle
- #KanColle Holy Site Pilgrimage
- #Maizuru
- #Maizuru Chinjufu
- #Red Brick Park
- #Kantai Collection
Photography Spots
Red Brick Warehouse Row:
A standard but essential shot. Sunset photography is also recommended.
Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Escort Ship:
Collaboration photos of Kanmusu with modern warships are popular.
Maizuru Bay:
The view from Goro Sky Tower is spectacular.
Collaboration with KanColle Merchandise:
Taking photos of decorated bags or pin badges at the holy site creates more immersive photographs.
Deepening Your Holy Site Pilgrimage with Trivia
History of Maizuru Chinjufu
Maizuru Chinjufu opened on October 1, Meiji 34 (1901). It was initially developed as a military port and played an important role in the Russo-Japanese War. During the Taisho period it was temporarily reduced, but was expanded again in the early Showa period, with many warships deployed there during the Pacific War.
After the war, it became a repatriation port, accepting over 660,000 repatriates, and became a symbol of Japan’s transition to peace. Today, as a Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force base, it contributes to Japan’s defense.
The Connection Between KanColle and Historical Facts
One of KanColle’s great attractions is its character settings and dialogue based on historical facts. Visiting Maizuru allows you to experience the following history firsthand.
- Pride in Birthplace: Kanmusu built in Maizuru often reference Maizuru in their dialogue
- History of Repatriation: Many warships engaged in repatriation transport after the war, and this history can be learned at the Repatriation Memorial Hall
- Atmosphere of the Naval District: The “Chinjufu” atmosphere within the game was inspired by the actual red brick buildings
Conclusion: Deepening Your Understanding of the KanColle World Through Holy Site Pilgrimage
Holy site pilgrimage centered on Maizuru City in Kyoto Prefecture is a valuable opportunity to experience the KanColle world in real life. The imposing red brick structures of Red Brick Park, the historical exhibitions of the Repatriation Memorial Hall, and active Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force escort ships. By actually seeing, touching, and experiencing these, your understanding and affection for the Kanmusu will deepen further.
Maizuru is not a major metropolis, but it is a valuable city with a rich naval heritage. The beautiful scenery of Maizuru Bay, delicious seafood, and friendly interactions with local people are also part of the enjoyment of holy site pilgrimage.
KanColle fans, please visit Maizuru at least once and experience the air of the “Chinjufu” firsthand. It is sure to become an unforgettable memory. And through your holy site pilgrimage, I hope you will also have the opportunity to reflect on the importance of peace and the weight of history.
Admirals, we hope to meet you in Maizuru!
