Charlie Chaplin famously traveled on the Hikawa Maru during his 1932 visit to Japan.
The ship earned the nickname 'Queen of the Pacific' during its peak years of service.
It survived hitting three naval mines during its time as a hospital ship in WWII.
The interior fittings were designed by French decorator Marc Simon in the Art Deco style.
The ship's original dog kennel, used by wealthy passengers for their pets, is still visible.
It was the first Japanese ship to be registered as an Important Cultural Property.
The ship is often referred to as the 'sister' to the Hikawa Maru's original fleet, which included vessels like the Asama Maru.
The ship's bridge still contains much of the original navigational equipment from the 1930s.
The NYK Hikawa Maru is a preserved 1930s ocean liner permanently moored at Yamashita Park in Yokohama. Constructed in 1929 by Yokohama Dock Company, the vessel served as a luxury passenger ship on the Pacific route between Yokohama and Seattle. During World War II, it operated as a hospital ship, transporting wounded soldiers. The interior retains much of its original Art Deco design, including the first-class dining saloon and social hall. Visitors can tour the engine room, bridge, and various passenger cabins to observe 20th-century maritime engineering. It is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. The ship remained in service until its retirement in 1960. It functions as a floating museum documenting Japanese maritime history and the evolution of ocean travel.
The upper boat deck provides a clear vantage point of the ship's iconic red and black funnels against the Yokohama skyline.
Wear comfortable, flat shoes as the ship features steep, narrow stairways and original steel flooring.
Check the deck levels carefully, as the engine room can be quite hot during summer months.
Allow extra time to walk the full length of the deck for unobstructed views of the Yokohama waterfront.
Attempting to visit during inclement weather, as exterior deck access may be restricted for safety.
Generally closed on Mondays; if Monday is a public holiday, it is typically open and may close the following Tuesday.
Visitors must exercise caution on narrow, steep stairs; do not lean over exterior railings.
