Kujukushima Pearl Sea Resort - Image 1
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Kujukushima Pearl Sea Resort

4.2
·5k reviews·Sasebo, Japan

Sail through 99 islands, explore vibrant marine life at Umikirara Aquarium, and enjoy scenic views at this waterfront resort.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Clear December days

Pleasant weather for cruising

CrowdLow
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Kujukushima Pearl Sea Resort - Image 1

Kujukushima Pearl Sea Resort

Best Time

Clear December days

Pleasant weather for cruising

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Sail through 99 islands, explore vibrant marine life at Umikirara Aquarium, and enjoy scenic views at this waterfront resort.

4.2
(5k reviews)

"This sea cruise is actually really fun and if you happen to be considering it, do it!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚢 Book Cruise Tickets Early

Secure your spot on the popular 99 Island cruise, which departs hourly and lasts 50 minutes.

🌬️ Enjoy the Open Deck

Don't miss the chance to go on deck for stunning views, even on cooler days.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Kujukushima 99 Islands Cruise

Kujukushima 99 Islands Cruise

Pearl Sea Resort Port

Sail through a breathtaking archipelago of 99 islands, enjoying panoramic views and informative commentary.

Umikirara Aquarium

Umikirara Aquarium

Pearl Sea Resort

Discover a vibrant underwater world with diverse marine life, including playful sea creatures and colorful fish.

Island Observation Deck

Island Observation Deck

Onboard the cruise ship

Ascend to the crow's nest for an elevated, unique perspective of the islands and the surrounding sea.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Cruise in Advance

The 99 Island cruise is a must-do, departing hourly. Booking ahead ensures your spot, especially during peak times. Enjoy the scenic 50-minute journey through the stunning Kujukushima archipelago.

Embrace the Outdoors

While the aquarium is a highlight, much of the resort's charm lies in its natural beauty. Dress for the weather, as you'll want to explore the decks and enjoy the sea breeze during your island tour.

Best Times

When
Clear December days
Why
Pleasant weather for cruising
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer tourists
Crowd
Low
When
Hourly departures
Why
Flexible scheduling
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Kujukushima Pearl Sea 99 Island Tour #fyp #Japan #travel
@frederica_music
129 likes • 4.8K views

🚢 Book Cruise Tickets Early

Secure your spot on the popular 99 Island cruise, which departs hourly and lasts 50 minutes. Reddit

🌬️ Enjoy the Open Deck

Don't miss the chance to go on deck for stunning views, even on cooler days. Reddit

📍 Umikirara aquarium 🐠🐟🐬 located in Kujukushima Pearl Sea resort #sasebo #japan #aquarium #lover
gerizpapaul
5 likes • 249 views
A day at Kujukushima Pearl Sea Resort! #sea #adventure #reelsinstagram #reels #outdoors #ocean #japan #nagasaki #sasebo #kujukushimapearlsearesort #kujūkushima
yoshxmi
0 likes • 1.3K views

🗣️ English Audio Available

The island tours offer comprehensive English audio commentary for a better understanding. Reddit

🛍️ Souvenirs & Snacks Onboard

Grab a small snack or souvenir directly on the cruise ship. Reddit

#sasebo is known for its Pearl Sea Resort area famous for #kujukushima or #99islands where you can find a number of things to do- including the #aquarium! Prices range but you can get a discount for being a Sasebo resident! Just provide ID . . . #japan #kujukushimaaquarium #nagasaki #visitjapanjp
saoirse.ellis
19 likes • 294 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚢 Book Cruise Tickets Early

Secure your spot on the popular 99 Island cruise, which departs hourly and lasts 50 minutes. Reddit

🌬️ Enjoy the Open Deck

Don't miss the chance to go on deck for stunning views, even on cooler days. Reddit

🗣️ English Audio Available

The island tours offer comprehensive English audio commentary for a better understanding. Reddit

🛍️ Souvenirs & Snacks Onboard

Grab a small snack or souvenir directly on the cruise ship. Reddit

💡 Sasebo Resident Discount

If you're a Sasebo resident, bring ID for potential discounts at the aquarium. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.2
(5k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking scenery of the 99 Islands cruise, highlighting the well-organized and comfortable boat experience with informative commentary. The Umikirara Aquarium is also a hit for its healthy marine life and engaging exhibits. While some mention inhaling exhaust fumes on the cruise, the overall consensus is that the stunning views and enjoyable activities make it a highly recommended destination.

"I really liked the experience. I went there on Tuesday, and there were still a lot of tourists. Luckily, I managed to get on the cruise ahead of time, as it departs every hour and the trip lasts 50 minutes."

Rhea

"Fast ship, well organized, clean facilities. Waiting area was climatised with free wifi.

The tour itself was beautiful. We had quite a lot of exhaust to inhale but it was worth it nonetheless."

Margot Eisele

"This sea cruise is actually really fun and if you happen to be considering it, do it! I went on a clear day in December and the weather was about 58, so it was totally fine. The boat itself is spacious with tons of seats, but you can also go out on the deck and up in a very small crows nest — elevated by about ten spiral steps. It’s not super high but it’s a cool view and I was surprised it was freely open to the public. Small snacks and some drinks and souvenirs are sold on the boat, and there is comprehensive English audio for the island tour.

Honestly this compares very favorably to Matsushima in Sendai, I liked this a lot better even though this is not nearly as famous."

John Bishop

What People Like

Stunning island views
Organized cruise experience
Healthy aquarium animals

What People Dislike

Cruise exhaust fumes

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The resort is accessible by car and public transport. From Sasebo Station, you can take a bus directly to the resort. Many visitors also arrive via cruise ships docking in Sasebo. Instagram+1

Yes, there is parking available for visitors. It's a convenient option if you're arriving by car. Instagram

The most popular way is the 99 Island cruise, offering scenic views. For a more active experience, consider SUP tours around the islands. TikTokInstagram

Absolutely! It's a perfect destination for a day trip from Sasebo or nearby Nagasaki, offering a variety of activities. Instagram+1

While the resort itself is generally accessible, some areas like the observation deck on the cruise ship may involve stairs. It's advisable to check specific accessibility details for tours. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices can vary, but the cruise typically lasts 50 minutes. It's recommended to check the official website for the most current pricing. Reddit

Often, package deals or combo tickets are available that offer savings if you plan to visit both the Umikirara Aquarium and take the 99 Islands cruise. Instagram

Operating hours can differ between attractions like the aquarium and the cruise departures. It's best to consult the official Kujukushima Pearl Sea Resort website for the most up-to-date schedule. Instagram

Yes, tickets for the cruise and aquarium are generally available for purchase on the day of your visit, but booking in advance is recommended during busy periods. Reddit

As mentioned, Sasebo residents may receive discounts at the aquarium with valid ID. Keep an eye out for seasonal promotions or group rates. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Beyond the iconic 99 Islands cruise and the Umikirara Aquarium, you can explore shopping areas, enjoy dining, and participate in activities like SUP. Instagram+2

The aquarium features a diverse range of marine life, from local fish species to other fascinating aquatic creatures. Visitors have praised the health of the animals. InstagramReddit

While the cruise departs hourly, it can get crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. Going on a weekday or during off-peak hours can offer a more relaxed experience. Reddit

The cruise ships are well-organized and clean, featuring ample seating, restrooms, and areas for purchasing snacks and souvenirs. Reddit

Absolutely! The views are stunning, and many visitors capture beautiful photos of the islands and the sea. The observation deck offers a unique vantage point. InstagramReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the resort complex offers various dining spots where you can enjoy local cuisine and refreshments. Instagram

Small snacks and drinks are available for purchase on board the 99 Islands cruise ship. Reddit

Sasebo is famous for its 'Sasebo Burger,' a hearty and delicious local specialty. You might find variations at restaurants in the resort or nearby. Instagram

Dining options can vary. It's advisable to check with individual restaurants at the resort for specific dietary offerings. Instagram

Prices can range from casual snack bars to more formal restaurants. Budget-friendly options are usually available, especially for snacks and quick bites. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The 99 Islands cruise offers incredible photo opportunities from the deck and the observation deck. The aquarium also provides unique underwater shots. InstagramReddit

Definitely! The elevated view from the crow's nest provides a unique perspective of the islands that you can't get from the main deck. Reddit

Morning light can be beautiful for capturing the islands, while late afternoon might offer softer light. Clear days are essential for the best visibility. Reddit

Drone usage is typically restricted in tourist areas and national parks for safety and environmental reasons. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone. Instagram

Many visitors rave about the panoramic shots from the cruise ship's deck and the higher observation point. The aquarium's tanks also make for striking photos. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Kujukushima Pearl Sea Resort is a fantastic destination for families. The Umikirara Aquarium is a guaranteed hit with children, offering a colorful and engaging look at marine life. Instagram The 99 Islands cruise is also enjoyable for kids, providing a sense of adventure as they spot different islands and enjoy the sea breeze. TikTok Consider bringing snacks and drinks for younger children, though some are available for purchase on the cruise. The resort's open spaces also allow for some freedom to move around. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

While Kujukushima Pearl Sea Resort offers various attractions, you can tailor your visit to fit a budget. The 99 Islands cruise is a relatively affordable way to experience the natural beauty of the area, offering great value for its duration and views. Reddit Packing your own snacks and water can help save on onboard purchases. Look for potential combo tickets if you plan to visit both the cruise and the aquarium to get a better deal. Instagram

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

This resort is a photographer's dream! The 99 Islands cruise provides endless opportunities for stunning landscape shots, especially from the open deck and the elevated observation point. Reddit Capture the unique shapes of the islands, the textures of the sea, and the play of light on the water. The Umikirara Aquarium also offers unique opportunities for underwater photography, showcasing the vibrant colors of marine life. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Enchanting Kujukushima Archipelago

The Kujukushima, meaning '99 Islands,' is a stunning natural landscape that forms the heart of the Pearl Sea Resort experience. This intricate network of islands, scattered across the East China Sea, offers a unique maritime vista. The islands vary in size and shape, many covered in lush greenery, creating a picturesque scene that has captivated visitors for generations. The cruise is the primary way to immerse yourself in this natural wonder, providing close-up views of the diverse coastal formations and marine environment. TikTokInstagram+1

Navigating through these islands feels like exploring a hidden world. The cruise commentary, available in English, enriches the experience by detailing the geology, history, and folklore associated with different islands. Some islands are small, rocky outcrops, while others are larger and support unique flora. The clarity of the water often allows glimpses of the underwater world, adding another layer to the visual spectacle. Reddit

For those seeking a more intimate connection with the sea, activities like Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) are also available, allowing you to glide between the islands at your own pace. This offers a different perspective, closer to the water's surface and the natural sounds of the bay. Instagram

Umikirara Aquarium: A Glimpse Beneath the Waves

The Umikirara Aquarium is a significant attraction within the Kujukushima Pearl Sea Resort, offering a delightful journey into the diverse marine life of the region. It's a place where visitors, especially families, can marvel at the vibrant underwater ecosystems. The aquarium is known for its well-maintained exhibits and healthy aquatic animals, which have been noted positively by visitors. InstagramReddit

Visitors can expect to see a variety of local fish species that inhabit the waters around Kujukushima, alongside other fascinating marine creatures. The displays are designed to be both educational and engaging, providing insights into the biodiversity of the sea. The aquarium's layout often allows for close encounters with the aquatic inhabitants, making it a memorable experience for all ages. Instagram

While the aquarium is a highlight, remember that it's part of a larger resort complex. Combining a visit to Umikirara with the 99 Islands cruise offers a comprehensive experience of the Pearl Sea Resort's natural and marine attractions. Instagram

Navigating the Resort and Cruise Experience

The Kujukushima Pearl Sea Resort is designed to be a comprehensive destination, offering more than just boat tours. The resort area itself includes amenities like shops and dining facilities, making it convenient for visitors to spend a full day. The organization of the cruise departures is efficient, with boats leaving every hour, which helps manage visitor flow. Reddit

Onboard the cruise ships, comfort and convenience are prioritized. You'll find ample seating, clean restrooms, and even a small 'crow's nest' observation area accessible via spiral stairs for a higher vantage point. While the cruise can be enjoyed on a clear day in cooler weather, the open decks are a key part of the experience, allowing you to fully appreciate the sea breeze and the panoramic views. Reddit

For those looking for unique ways to experience the islands, SUP tours offer an adventurous alternative to the traditional cruise. These tours allow for a more personal interaction with the marine environment, gliding through the calm waters surrounding the islands. Instagram

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