Sarushima Monkey Island Yokosuka
Sarushima Island: Tokyo Bay's only uninhabited island, offering historic military ruins, beaches, and BBQ spots.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Sarushima Monkey Island Yokosuka
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Sarushima Island: Tokyo Bay's only uninhabited island, offering historic military ruins, beaches, and BBQ spots.
"A unique experience on this small historic and natural island."
🎒 Pack Essentials
Bring water, snacks, and insect repellent, especially in summer. Vending machines are available, but options are limited.
🚶♀️ Guided Tours Recommended
Opt for a guided tour (in Japanese) to fully appreciate the island's history and access restricted areas.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Military Ruins
Throughout the island
Explore moss-covered brick tunnels and old fortifications from the Meiji era. A glimpse into Japan's past defense strategies.
Sarushima Beach
Island's coast
Enjoy a relaxing day at the beach, perfect for swimming in the summer months. A great spot for picnics and soaking up the sun.
Scenic Island Views
Various viewpoints
Take in panoramic views of Tokyo Bay and the surrounding coastline. Ideal for photography and appreciating the natural beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Ferry Tickets & Island Access
Best Time for Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎒 Pack Essentials
Bring water, snacks, and insect repellent, especially in summer. Vending machines are available, but options are limited.
🚶♀️ Guided Tours Recommended
Opt for a guided tour (in Japanese) to fully appreciate the island's history and access restricted areas.
📸 Capture the History
The island's ruins and natural beauty offer fantastic photo opportunities. Don't miss the French brick tunnels.
🍽️ BBQ & Dining Options
Rent BBQ equipment for a fun outdoor meal or visit the island's restaurant.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎒 Pack Essentials
Bring water, snacks, and insect repellent, especially in summer. Vending machines are available, but options are limited.
🚶♀️ Guided Tours Recommended
Opt for a guided tour (in Japanese) to fully appreciate the island's history and access restricted areas.
📸 Capture the History
The island's ruins and natural beauty offer fantastic photo opportunities. Don't miss the French brick tunnels.
🍽️ BBQ & Dining Options
Rent BBQ equipment for a fun outdoor meal or visit the island's restaurant.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Sarushima Island offers a unique blend of history and nature, making it a worthwhile day trip. Visitors appreciate the well-preserved military ruins and the scenic beach, though some note that the island can be covered quickly. Be prepared for potential insects and consider a guided tour for deeper historical insights.
"Overall cool visit, not spectacular but was something to do. There is history to the island for those who are interested in that kind of thing. It's a short 10 minute ride via boat to the island and tickets were 2000 yen for adults, but Yokosuka residents receive a discount. In the summer, it is hot so bring water with you or you can get drinks from the vending machine. Also saw a small concession stand there but didn't stop by to see what was offered. This place realistically can be covered in less than an hour. Offers some nice views of the surrounding area. If you go in the summer, be prepared to see lots of bugs here, especially spiders. Also saw a large hornet, centipedes and a rat."
Vinny F
"First of all, the island itself was so beautiful. I joined 60mins tour with Lucy-san/tour guide. She was funny and very knowledgeable. It was really interesting to hear a history of the island. I strongly recommend the 60 mins tour since you can go inside of the soldier’s break room and ammunition depot. Thank you so much, Lucy-san!"
Ai Cervi
"Definitely recommend this place for a short day-trip if you live in the area!
I feel like it's a not so common travel destination so it wasn't too crowded - I was able to take a nice walk around the island, taking my time taking pictures and enjoying the sights!
If you're not there for grilling or swimming and just plan seeing the island, I feel like one or max two hours are enough time, even if you walk at a slower pace and take some time to rest at the beach."
Alice
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Tokyo, take the Keikyu Line to Yokosuka-Chuo Station (approx. 50-60 mins). From there, it's a 10-15 minute walk to Mikasa Park, where you'll catch the ferry to Sarushima Island.
Ferry services typically run frequently during daylight hours, especially in peak season. It's best to check the latest schedule with the ferry operator before your visit, as it can vary by season and weather.
Yes, Sarushima Island is accessible via public transport. You can reach Yokosuka by train and then take a short ferry ride from Mikasa Pier.
The train journey from Tokyo to Yokosuka takes about 50-60 minutes, followed by a 10-minute ferry ride to the island.
You cannot drive directly to Sarushima Island as it is an uninhabited island. You will need to park your car in Yokosuka and take the ferry.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The round-trip ferry ticket for adults to Sarushima Island is ¥2,000. Yokosuka residents may receive a discount.
The ¥2,000 ferry ticket includes access to the island. There isn't a separate entrance fee for Sarushima Park itself.
While not always necessary, purchasing tickets in advance, especially during busy periods like weekends and holidays, is advisable to secure your spot.
Sarushima Island is generally accessible during daylight hours. The ferry operates on a schedule, and the island itself is open for exploration.
Yes, Yokosuka residents often receive a discount on the ferry tickets. It's recommended to bring proof of residency.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore historic military ruins, swim at the beach, have a barbecue, enjoy seasonal water sports, and take guided tours to learn about the island's history.
Yes, families can enjoy the beach, picnic areas, and exploring the relatively safe ruins. It's a good option for a short day trip.
Despite its name, Sarushima (Monkey Island) does not have any monkeys. The name is derived from a legend.
Walking is the primary way to explore. Consider a guided tour to understand the historical significance of the ruins and tunnels.
There is generally no Wi-Fi or reliable phone signal on Sarushima Island, making it a good place to disconnect.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a restaurant on Sarushima Island that offers meals.
Absolutely! Sarushima Island is a popular spot for barbecues, and you can rent equipment on the island.
The restaurant typically serves Japanese cuisine. For barbecues, you can bring your own food or purchase supplies.
Vending machines are available on the island for drinks, and there's a concession stand.
Bringing your own food for a picnic or barbecue can be more cost-effective and offers more variety. However, the on-site restaurant and concession stand provide convenient options.
📸 📸 Photography
The French brick tunnels, old fortifications, scenic viewpoints overlooking Tokyo Bay, and the beach offer excellent photographic opportunities.
Yes, the island's blend of historical ruins reclaimed by nature, lush greenery, and coastal views makes it very photogenic.
Morning light can be beautiful for capturing the ruins and landscapes. Late afternoon light can also create dramatic shots.
Generally, photography is allowed throughout the island. However, always be respectful of any posted signs or restricted areas.
Yes, the moss-covered tunnels and abandoned fortress feel are often compared to Studio Ghibli anime settings, particularly Laputa: Castle in the Sky.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing a picnic or enjoying a barbecue for a fun family meal. While the historical ruins are fascinating, keep a close eye on younger children in these areas. The ferry ride itself can also be an exciting part of the adventure for kids.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Focus on exploring the free historical sites and enjoying the natural scenery. If you're looking for a budget-friendly escape from the city, Sarushima offers a good balance of activities and natural beauty without excessive costs.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't miss the panoramic views of Tokyo Bay from various points on the island. The contrast between the man-made structures and the encroaching greenery creates compelling visual narratives. The island's comparison to anime settings also offers a whimsical angle for photographers.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through History: Sarushima's Fortifications
While many of these historical sites are fascinating, it's worth noting that some batteries may not be fully accessible to the public. However, guided tours, often conducted in Japanese, can provide deeper insights and access to areas like soldier's break rooms and ammunition depots. The distinctive French brick tunnels are a particular highlight, offering a glimpse into the architectural and engineering prowess of the time.
For those interested in history, Sarushima offers a tangible connection to Japan's coastal defense strategies. The island's transformation from a military stronghold to a recreational park adds another layer to its compelling narrative. It's a place where nature and history intertwine, offering a unique exploration for visitors.
Island Life: Activities and Relaxation
One of the most beloved activities on Sarushima is barbecuing. Visitors can rent BBQ equipment on-site, making it a convenient and enjoyable experience to cook and dine outdoors amidst the island's natural beauty. This makes Sarushima a fantastic destination for groups and families looking for a fun, interactive day out.
For those seeking a more active experience, water sports are also available seasonally. Additionally, the island offers walking trails that allow visitors to explore its diverse flora and fauna. The combination of historical exploration and recreational activities makes Sarushima a versatile destination catering to various interests.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit