UWAMACHI -- Yokosuka's "Upper Town"

上町商店街ホームページ – ようこそ、坂の上の街へ。上町日和

UWAMACHI (上町) -- Yokosuka's "Upper Town" 

Yokosuka City, Kanagawa Prefecture .... From the bustling Keikyu Yokosuka-Chuo Station, if you slowly climb a slope called "Hirasaka", you will find some nostalgic scenery that retains the atmosphere of the Showa era.  That is the 'Uwamachi Shopping Street.'

-- What kind of place is it?  

The Uwamachi area is not just a single street.  Streets like 'Uwamachi Ginza' and 'Nakazato Street' are connected like siblings, forming one warm town together.  

This place, located on a hill overlooking the station area (downtown), is a pleasant spot where the sea breeze passes through.  The street that once had an arcade now has its roof removed, allowing the historic buildings to reveal their beautiful appearance under the open sky.

-- Looking up at the town's symbol, the "kanban architecture"

  

When you walk around this town, be sure to look up a little.   

There, you will find many unique and wonderful buildings called kanban architecture.

-- What is a 'kanban architecture'? 

In the past (after the Great Kanto Earthquake), this style became popular for making buildings more fire-resistant and visually attractive.  The front of the building was made flat and decorated with copper plates or tiles as if it were a single signboard. 

Over many years, the copper plates changed to a beautiful green color (verdigris). 

This deep hue and solid atmosphere are treasures unique to Uwamachi that cannot be reproduced by modern buildings.  Buildings that have been carefully preserved, including "Midoriya", are still actively operating as shops today.

-- Memories of "Uwamachi for the Army, Shitamachi for the Navy"

  

In the naval port city of Yokosuka, there used to be a saying:  

"Uwamachi for the Army, Shitamachi for the Navy".

  

This area naturally developed into a town where shops gathered since the Meiji era.

  

In the past, it was also a residential district where many navy officers and their families lived.  It is said that because they catered to discerning customers, Uwamachi has many shops that handle "truly good things".

-- A new breeze is blowing, the future of Uwamachi

While valuing its history, Uwamachi is now trying to be reborn anew.

A new bustle

Utilizing sites such as the former hospital, night markets with lanterns are being held, and people can stroll around the town as if it were a "museum." Exciting events are increasing.

Art and music

In the autumn, the "Uwamatsuri" festival is held, filling the town with music, art, and delicious gourmet food.

Places to be passed down

Retro buildings are being renovated, and young people are starting cafes, secondhand bookstores, and galleries.  A pleasant atmosphere mixes nostalgia and newness.

Uwamachi in Yokosuka City developed as a historic town alongside the establishment of the naval district office during the Meiji era, serving as a residential area for naval officers and surrounding army facilities (such as the former army hospital).

Located on the hillside of Hirasaka-ue, it features a retro shopping street lined with signboard-style buildings and is still cherished today as a residential and commercial area that retains the Showa-era atmosphere.

History and Features of Uwamachi:

Residential Area in the Naval Port Town: In contrast to the seaside "Shimomachi" (commercial area), the hilltop "Uwamachi" developed as a residential district.

"Army Uwamachi": In the past, the area had many army hospitals and related facilities and was called "Army Uwamachi" within the naval city of Yokosuka.

Uwamachi Ginza Shopping Street: A shopping street with over 100 years of history, where many "signboard-style" buildings that became popular after the Great Kanto Earthquake still remain, creating a charming retro streetscape.

Historical Buildings: Modern architecture, such as the "Yokosuka Uwamachi Church and Megumi Kindergarten," registered as a national tangible cultural property in 2003, is scattered throughout the area.

Development: In 1950 (Showa 25), parts of the surrounding towns were reorganized, forming the current "Uwamachi."  Today, it is known as a nostalgic yet fresh area where long-established shops coexist with new stores.

Ancient Burial Mound Park

 大塚台古墳公園｜横須賀市池田町 - 三浦半島観光地図

== Ōtsukadai Kofun Park

The Otsuka Kofun is the largest keyhole-shaped burial mound on the Miura Peninsula, and it was actually located about 80 meters northeast of this park, at the summit with an elevation of around 77 meters. However, it disappeared due to a land readjustment project.

The Otsuka Kofun group was discovered in 1924 (Taisho 13) by Dr. Naotada Akaboshi.  

Excavations were conducted in 1952 (Showa 27) and from 1992 (Heisei 4) to 1994 (Heisei 6), confirming three keyhole-shaped burial mounds and three round burial mounds.

Within Otsukadai Kofun Park, Tumulus No. 1 is a restored kofun and is called the Otsuka Kofun.

It is a keyhole-shaped tumulus that was located at the top of the Otsukadai hill. From the top of the rear circular portion, at an elevation of about 78 meters, one could see far away to Mount Fuji and even as far as Tokyo Bay.

From the posterior circular part, a shallow pit-shaped coffin bed facing the east-west direction has been confirmed, measuring 3.05 meters along the major axis, 1.17 meters along the minor axis, and 35 centimeters in depth. The coffin bed is the place where the coffin was placed, but the coffin itself has not survived, possibly because it was made of wood.

Around the coffin bed, two straight swords, one small knife, more than fifteen iron arrowheads, two earrings, and more than forty small glass beads were excavated. Additionally, one piece of cracked Sue ware (unglazed pottery) was found in the earthen cover above the coffin bed.

- - - - -

There were eight archaeological sites from various periods in the Yoshii-Ikeda area.

-- At the Otsukadai site, remains of early Jomon period dwellings and anti-aircraft gun positions from World War II were excavated.  

-- At the Aoike site, fragments of pottery from the middle Jomon period were excavated.  

-- At the Mitsuaridani site, remains of dwellings from the late Yayoi period to the early Kofun period, as well as burial mounds called hōkei shūkōbo (rectangular moat tombs), were excavated.  

-- At the Omochi site, Kami-Yoshii North site, and Kami-Yoshii South site, remains of dwellings from the late Kofun period through the Nara and Heian periods were excavated.  

-- At the Nishitani site, stone-lined underground channels from around the Sengoku period were excavated.

- - - - -

There is a large jar used for storing food. The fact that such a large jar can be made suggests the advancement of pottery-making techniques and the abundance of food.

This large jar is called "Sue ware", a type of new pottery introduced from Korea.  Since it is fired at high temperatures in a full-scale kiln, it is hard and durable.

- - - - -

Iron arrowheads (arrow tips made of iron) were attached to the tip of an arrow to enhance its lethality.

In the early Jomon period, stone arrowheads made of stone or bone arrowheads made of bone were mainstream.  In the Yayoi period, they began to be made of bronze, and in the Kofun period, they came to be made of iron.

Since iron was not something that everyone could obtain, as time went on, the gap between the rich and poor, and between rulers and the ruled, widened.

Special Ship Retires in Yokosuka

25 January 2026, Yokosuka 

— Research ship 'Mirai' holds its final public viewing; formerly 'Mutsu', active in the Arctic and other regions

The research vessel 'Mirai' (about 8,700 tons) of the Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology (JAMSTEC) in Yokosuka, Kanagawa Prefecture, which had been in operation for 28 years for observing the Arctic Ocean and deploying large observation buoys in tropical seas, was retired, and its final public viewing was held on the 25th at Yokosuka New Port Pier in the city.

Its predecessor was Japan's first nuclear-powered ship, the 'Mutsu,' which was launched in 1969. In 1974, there was a radiation leak accident off the eastern coast of Aomori Prefecture. After repairs and test voyages, the ship was divided into three sections. The central part, which contained the nuclear reactor, was removed, and the bow and stern were reused and fitted with diesel engines, transforming it into the 'Mirai.' The nuclear reactor is on display at the Mutsu Science and Technology Museum in Mutsu City, Aomori Prefecture.

- - - - -

From the Nuclear-Powered Ship to "Mirai" 

The journey of "Mirai" was itself a testament to the culmination of Japanese science and technology. Its predecessor was Japan's first nuclear-powered ship, "Mutsu." In 1997, it was reborn as a state-of-the-art research vessel powered primarily by a diesel engine, enabling observations in previously challenging conditions, such as extremely cold seas and rough weather. With a length of 128.5 meters and a weight of 8,706 tons, its size was also a weapon for ensuring stable data collection even in turbulent waves. 

Over 28 years, it traveled approximately 2.3 million kilometers (equivalent to 58 trips around the Earth). It made over 20 Arctic voyages, alerting the world to the severe reality of declining sea ice. In research that forecasts humanity's future—such as studies on climate change phenomena and global warming—it was recognized by scientists worldwide as a "floating ocean laboratory." 

Currently, construction is underway on "Mirai II," which is scheduled to take over the duties of Mirai, with completion aimed for around November this year.

New Development at YRP

https://corp.mobile.rakuten.co.jp/english/news/press/2023/0731_01/

Rakuten Mobile, Inc. and Yokosuka Telecom Research Park Co., Ltd. today opened a new RIC (RAN Intelligent Controller)*¹ research facility at the Yokosuka Research Park in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan, with the aim of contributing to the further advancement of Open RAN (Radio Access Network) development.

Rakuten Mobile will conduct research and development (R&D) on RIC at the research facility, while Yokosuka Telecom Research Park will provide the research location, as the two companies aim to accelerate the advancement of Open RAN technologies. The research facility will be used to verify improvements in network efficiency, power saving and security enhancements by deploying emulators for RIC development, and using RICs to manage Rakuten Mobile's test RAN environment according to network usage conditions.

The research facility is equipped with a verification environment that uses Rakuten Mobile's fully virtualized cloud-native mobile network, allowing domestic and international telecommunications and communication service provider equipment manufacturers and other Rakuten Mobile partners to access the research facility remotely to verify Open RAN integration and conduct RIC proof-of-concept (PoC) testing*³. 

Yokosuka Telecom Research Park provides the infrastructure necessary for conducting demonstration experiments of next-generation telco technology at the Yokosuka Research Park. The RIC research facility will utilize this location for RIC research and development.

Soleil No Oka Park

There is a very nice and large park located on a bluff along the west coast of Yokosuka City.  It is called "Soleil no Oka", which can be translated as "Sunshine Hill".  The park has wide open green areas, fields of flowers, amusement facilities, restaurants, etc., and also a large (pay) parking lot. 

Its location is a bit off the beaten track, so to speak, but once you learn the way to get there, it is a quick and convenient drive. 

Of interest, one of the reasons why such an expansive park like Soliel No Oka exists in the otherwise-crowded Yokosuka & Miura Peninsula area, is due to the site's unique history.

Towards the end of World War II, in 1945, Japan's Imperial Navy decided to build an air base on top of the Nagai bluff, which was a strategic location overlooking the Pacific Ocean approaches to Sagami Bay.  So, a long runway, hangars, and other airfield buildings and facilities were built at Nagai Air Base.  Its mission was to launch aircraft (including "Kamikaze" bombers) defend Japan from U.S. & Allied forces trying to land on Japanese soil.  

But, as things turned out, Japan surrendered before that happened, so Nagai Air Base was never actually used for combat operations.  Instead, after being taken over by U.S. Occupation authorities, many wooden-frame, Western-style, dwellings were built there, as the Japanese naval air base was converted into the U.S. Navy's "Nagai Family Housing Area". 

Nagai was used by American military-associated families until 1983, when it was finally closed and returned to the government of Japan.  In the years that followed, it was eventually decided that the area would be converted into a park, and Soleil No Oka was built and then opened for business in April 2005.

Of note, here's a previous blog post about the park's history:

https://deepyokosuka.blogspot.com/search?q=nagai

Some Oppama History

The northernmost district of Yokosuka City, which borders Yokohama City is called "Oppama" (追浜).  It is place with an interesting history.  During the early 20th Century, the coastal area of Oppama was developed into a large air base for the Imperial Navy -- it became the birthplace of Japanese naval aviation.  Its official name was: "Yokosuka Naval Air Technical Arsenal".  After World War II, the airfield and facilities were taken over by U.S. Occupation Forces, and it was renamed Naval Air Station Oppama.  Following the Korean War, in the late-1950s, NAS Oppama was closed down and returned to the Government of Japan.  A few years later, in 1961, Nissan Automobile Corporation built a large factory on former air base land -- "Nissan Oppama" became a large part of Yokosuka's economy, with several thousand employees, and many other smaller supporting businesses & subcontractors.  Oppama train station is on the Keihin Kyuko line, just a few stops from Yokosuka Chuo station.  Nearby and stretching away from Oppama station is a large & vibrant traditional shopping street ("shoten-gai" 商店街) filled with small businesses, retailers, restaurants, etc.  Oppama also is the site of a popular summer festival and occasional night bazaars.

= = = = = = = = = =

追浜の歴史１ - すまい造りの佐野工務店 | 横須賀市追浜の工務店すまい造りの佐野工務店 | 横須賀市追浜の工務店

We spoke with Takeshi Aoki, who published 'A Tour of Oppama’s History' and served as the director of the Oppama Administrative Center in Yokosuka City. He is currently active as the head of the 'Aoki Juku,' organized by the Kanagawa Shimbun, to learn about the changes in the town of Oppama.

Tracing its history, Oppama is a treasure trove. Long ago, the coastline of Kanazawa and Oppama, with Nojima, Natsushima, and Eboshijima islands, was said to have been very scenic. Natsushima was inhabited by ancient Jomon people around 9,500 years ago, and the Natsushima Shell Mound, now a nationally designated historic site, still exists there. 

The beaches around Natsushima are where, a century ago, an Imperial Navy captain flew a French-made seaplane. Less known, but just before the Nissan Oppama Factory, the oldest ritual site called the 'Natagiri Ruins,' featuring a rare ox skull used for rain-making ceremonies during the Kofun period, has been discovered intact.

In the Muromachi period, the construction of temples began, and Nōei-ji Temple was founded in the first year of Ōei (1394). Behind Nōei-ji Temple is the Enokido Yokoana group from the Nara period, and the artifacts excavated there are displayed at the temple. Additionally, Jitoku-ji Temple was founded in the 14th year of Ōei (1406), and Hōfuku-ji Temple was also established around the time of the Ōnin War in the 2nd year of Bunmei (1470).

In the late Edo period, in the 6th year of Kaei (1853), the U.S. Perry Expedition anchored off Natsushima and even landed on the island to collect flora and fauna. At this time, Commodore Perry surveyed Yokosuka Bay and named Sasukehana Bay and Natsushima as Webster Island. 

Upon returning to America, having observed the skillfulness of the Japanese, he predicted that if the country ended its isolation and opened up, introducing technical expertise, Japan would become a nation capable of competing with Western countries in manufacturing in the future. With the advent of the Meiji era and the advancement of modernization, Perry's prediction was precisely realized, symbolized by the old Yokosuka Naval Air Corps and the Naval Aviation Arsenal in Oppama.

Yokosuka's "Mascot Character"

 Japan is famous around the world for its "soft power" and producing lots of comics (manga -- 漫画) and cartoons (anime -- アニメ).  In keeping with its imaginative & visual artistic culture, some Japanese agencies, groups, or businesses produce what are called "mascot characters" (マスコットキャラクター) as cute and approachable representatives of their organizations.  Like the masked & costumed actors at Disneyland, a mascot character is a cute, quirky figure created to represent a place, event, organization, or company -- usually to promote local pride, tourism, or branding. They are designed with simple, endearing features and often embody regional culture, history, or products.  The mascots embody the spirit of their region, acting as approachable ambassadors that connect people emotionally to a place or brand.  Of note, Yokosuka City Government has its own mascot character called: "SUKARIN" (スカリン -- see image below).  SUKARIN was created back in 2007 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the city.  The design was chosen through a public contest.  It is said to be a fairy that came from the sea and its gender is unknown.  The name comes from a combination of Yokosuka (SUKA) and marine/sea (RIN).  SUKARIN's blue color is inspired by the sea of Yokosuka harbor -- and it wears a small sailboat as a hat.  SUKARIN is used and displayed in support of many activities, publications, and events in Yokosuka. 

Growth Through Landfill

日本財団図書館（電子図書館）　美しい都市景観の形成に関する研究

- - - - -

History of Urban Development

Expansion of the city area through reclamation projects

　Summarizing the changes in reclamation projects in Yokosuka City, the following characteristics can be observed.

== Reclamation projects in the central Yokosuka area, starting with the construction of the Yokosuka Ironworks (Shipyard)

In 1865, the Tokugawa Shogunate built the Yokosuka Iron Works (later the "Yokosuka Naval Arsenal") in Yokosuka Village (the present-day Honcho area) as a facility for the construction and repair of warships.  Along with this, land reclamation work was carried out on the three bays of Sanga-ho, Hakusen, and Uchiura, which make up the current Yokosuka main harbor area.

Subsequent land reclamation shifted to the current Yokosuka New Port side, gradually extending eastward from Ōtaki Town.  As a result, Ōtaki Town (1867), Shiodome Town (1869), Minato Town (1871), Ogawa Town (1878), Wakamatsu Town (1879), Yonegahama (1889), Yasuura Town (1922), and Miharu Town (1930) were created through reclamation.  Most of the reclaimed areas during this period were inland from the present Route 16, and they now form the central part of the city.  (The years in parentheses indicate the completion year)

Furthermore, in 1929, land reclamation further seaward from Wakamatsu Town, Yonegahama, and Yasura Town began, and in 1931, the vast Hinode Town (about 18 hectares) was established.

== Reclamation of Kurihama Bay Associated with the Construction of a Thermal Power Plant

   In connection with the construction of a thermal power plant (Tokyo Electric Power Company), land reclamation off Sendagasaki in Kurihama Bay began in 1957 and the reclamation work was completed in 1973.  In addition, the reclamation of Kurihama Port adjacent to the power plant was carried out at the same time (reclamation completed in 1965).

== Large-scale land reclamation projects that began in the 1960s

(a) Reclamation of Ōtsu and Mabori Beach

The reclamation work at Ōtsu and Mabori was completed in 1969, covering about 68.3 hectares.  The coastal area, once bustling with beachgoers, was transformed into a residential development.

(b) Reclamation of the waterfront area of Oppama Industrial Complex

In 1969, the reclamation of the waterfront area of the Oppama Industrial Complex (off Natsushima) began, and by 1985, reclamation projects had been carried out for (Sumitomo) shipyard land (completed in 1972), and land for Nissan Motor's transportation and storage facilities (completed in 1982), among others.

(c) Construction of Yokosuka New Port

In 1965, in connection with the national Second Five-Year Port Development Plan, the construction of Yokosuka New Port began, accompanied by land reclamation work.  The new port was planned as a cargo ship base surpassing both Nagaura and Kurihama ports, and involved the reclamation of Ogawa Port and the construction of new piers.  The port facilities of the new port, completed in 1975, include five berths, cargo handling areas, and open storage yards.

The reclaimed land of Ogawa Port, carried out as a city-led project (completed in 1971), involved the city's development of city blocks.  Between 1972 and 1981, high-rise apartments of around ten stories and office buildings for companies were constructed one after another.

(d) Land Reclamation Project in the Yasuura Area - Construction of "Yokosuka Seaside New Town"

From 1980 to 1992, a land reclamation project was carried out in the Yasuura area, creating approximately 61 hectares of land.

The reclaimed land was named Heisei Town, and the development of "Yokosuka Seaside New Town" is was undertaken.  This new town was created with medium- to high-rise residential buildings in the central area, surrounded by commercial facilities, cultural and sports facilities, and office buildings.

Under the above plans, land sales in the new town began in 1994, and town development included, as basic facilities, symbolic green spaces such as the “Seaside Fishing Park” and “Umikaze Park,” as well as coastal roads such as “Yokosuka Kaigan Street” (Beach Boulevard).

- - - - -

== Summary of the Expansion of City Area through Reclamation Projects

The history and overview of reclamation projects in Yokosuka City can be summarized as follows:

  -- The history of reclamation along the coast of Yokosuka City is long.  By the late Edo period, reclamation work had already been carried out in the area of present-day Yokosuka Main Port associated with the construction of the Yokosuka Iron Works.  Subsequently, the reclaimed land gradually expanded southward from the Yokosuka Iron Works, and by the early Showa period, reclamation had extended to the area around present-day Miharu Town.

  -- In the postwar period, large-scale land reclamation was carried out along coastal areas other than the Yokosuka Honcho district.  A representative example of this is the reclamation associated with the construction of the Kurihama Thermal Power Plant (1957–1965).  Furthermore, in the 1960s, reclamation projects began at Otsu and Mabori coasts, as well as in the area that is now the Oppama Industrial Complex, marking the full-scale start of large-scale reclamation.

  -- In recent years, a notable example is the reclamation in Heisei-cho, where the construction of the "Yokosuka Seaside New Town," a mixed-use development featuring waterfront parks, residential facilities, and cultural and commercial facilities, is currently ongoing.

Tenjin Island

Tenjin Island is an island located in the Sajima area of Yokosuka City, Kanagawa Prefecture.  It is situated near the entrance of Otawa Bay, which is part of Sagami Bay.

Located on the west coast of the Miura Peninsula at the entrance of Otawa Bay, it is a small island with a circumference of about 1 kilometer.  The Tenmangu Shrine on the island attracted the faith of local residents, making it difficult for human interference, so rich nature remains from the coastline to the central part of the island.

In 1953 (Showa 28), the Hama-yu (Hamaomoto) lily plant, found on Tenjin Island was designated a natural monument of Kanagawa Prefecture as the northern limit of its natural distribution.  Furthermore, in 1965 (Showa 40), part of Tenjin Island and Kasashima, along with the surrounding waters, were designated as a scenic spot and natural monument, and since the following year, the Tenjin Island Marine Nature Education Museum has been managing it.

- - - - -

Tenjinjima Coastal Nature Education Park is located on the west coast of the Miura Peninsula, facing Sagami Bay.  The park, blessed with a natural environment, is home to many coastal plants and animals and is one of the few natural coastlines remaining on the Miura Peninsula.  Tenjinjima, Kasajima, and the surrounding sea area (about 54 hectares) are designated as a natural monument of Kanagawa Prefecture because they mark the northern limit of the distribution of Hamaomoto (Hama-yu), a southern beach lily plant.

Tenjinjima Marine Biological Garden ｜ YOKOSUKA ROUTE MUSEUM

Godzilla's Footprint --- Tatara Beach

‘Godzilla’ history returns to Yokosuka | Stripes Japan

- - - - -

Take a small trip back to the giant world of the first-generation Godzilla at the Tatarahama Observation Platform, rededicated by Toho Studios and the Kanagawa Prefecture Yokosuka Civil Engineering Office at Kannonzaki on April 25, 2025. 

Yokosuka Naval Base is where the late, great Godzilla suit actor Haruo Nakajima trained during World War II. Yokosuka City is home to the Godzilla Slide at Kurihama Flower World and also the point where “Shodai Gojira” (First Generation Godzilla) sets foot on the mainland in his 1954 debut. 

Godzilla’s footprint, located along the Uraga Channel of Tokyo Bay is not far from the Yokosuka Museum of Art, around the corner from the Kannonzaki Lighthouse and adjacent to the Kannonzaki Nature Museum with a bayside restaurant, serving local food and drinks. Way back in 1958, a then Tyrannosaur-like slide was constructed by Shigeo Kimura, president of the Kannonzaki Tourist Association for kids to enjoy at Tatarahama Beach. Before the area was even a prefectural park, it affectionately became known as the Godzilla slide.  

In 1973, sea air withered away at the popular, concrete slide and the attraction was destroyed. 

A one-tenth scaled footprint of Godzilla remained there for years, which led the Yokosuka Chamber of Commerce and Industry Youth Division in 1995 to fuel their own Godzilla major slide revival, completed in 1999 at Kurihama.   

The puny impression of Godzilla’s footprint at Tatarahama was taken away this past April and now closely matches the grandeur of the 50-meter-high, 20,000 metric ton movie star from the 1954 epic.

The footprint authorized and supervised by the Godzilla Room of Toho Co., designed and constructed by Toho Visual Art Co. is a low-rise bench in the shape of the King of Monster’s foot and four toes. The location is complimented by adjoining seats to take a break and enjoy ocean breezes above the monumental shoreline.

Kannonzaki Park’s official website and an onsite marker describe the project as a movement and opportunity “to express our gratitude to Godzilla, who has been loved in this area for so many years. We also installed a monument of Godzilla’s footprint to commemorate the 70th anniversary of Godzilla’s birth.” 

It is appropriate that the locale which first housed a Godzilla slide, entertained countless children and families is now an official, permanent Godzilla area for generations of kaiju maniacs to treasure.

Safety Analyst and unabashed collector, Helmi Abdat from Melbourne, Australia visited the park prior to the reformation said, “It was a really nice experience to be at the spot where Godzilla first landed. The waves and location were so serene. I cannot wait to see the renovated, iconic place for tourists and Godzilla fans alike.”   

Whether it’s a stroll along the Kannonzaki shore, or a deeper dive into Godzilla historic culture, the observation platform is a convenient day trip from Tokyo, reachable by train, bus, taxi, or automobile via the Yokohama Yokosuka expressway. 

Take a kaiju load off this summer and imagine the first-gen king as he headed northeastward towards Tokyo on his first sojourn of destruction, just one of the multitudes of things to see and do in Yokosuka, the birthplace of the Empire of Japan.

Yokosuka and Cyber-defense

Naval port Yokosuka transforms into cyberdefense talent hub - Nikkei Asia

- - - - -

The city of Yokosuka, home to Japan's largest naval base, is becoming a center for training cyberdefense personnel in an effort that brings together the Self-Defense Forces, the U.S. military and the private sector.

The Ground Self-Defense Force's System and Signal/Cyber School, located in the city, was recently reorganized and renamed to reflect its cyber focus. It provides specialized training to around 130 students a year.

"We must use all means at our disposal, including the cyber-related organizations in Yokosuka, to strengthen our cyberdefense capabilities," then-Defense Minister Minoru Kihara said on a March 2024 visit to the school. The urgency of the situation was underscored that year by news of a cyberattack that hit the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency and resulted in data leaks.

In addition to the Maritime Self-Defense Force's fleet, the U.S. Navy's 7th Fleet is based in Yokosuka.

The city is also home to the National Defense Academy, which educates SDF officers, and the GSDF's High Technical School. The academy added a cyber department in 2024, while the technical school created a specialized course on the topic in 2021.

On the private-sector side, Yokosuka Research Park includes research facilities for such telecommunications companies as NTT and KDDI. Software developer FFRI Security has an R&D center there as well.

Former defense officials and others established an association in December 2023 that serves as a bridge between private-sector cyber talent and SDF educational institutions by standardizing skills and curricula.

"It's a great location for talent training, research, and putting those skills to work," a senior SDF officer said.

The Ministry of Defense plans to sharply expand the SDF's cyber personnel to roughly 4,000 by fiscal 2027 from 2,400 or so as of fiscal 2024. It looks to bring its staffing on par with countries like the U.S. -- which has a 6,200-member cyberdefense force, according to the ministry's 2024 defense white paper -- and France, which aims to reach 5,000 in 2025.

"4,000 is the number of people we need to protect the Self-Defense Forces," a senior defense official said. "If government agencies and other organizations are included, that isn't enough people."

By comparison, China is estimated to have a 30,000-strong cyberattack force.

The Defense Ministry is trying to attract talent by setting the maximum annual salary for highly qualified candidates at around 23 million yen (about $145,500) -- the same as for chief of staff of the Joint Staff, Japan's top uniformed officer. Some in the cybersecurity industry say this is still too low.

At the same time, SDF personnel will continue to join NATO cyberdefense exercises and take other steps on international cooperation against threats.

Oppama District in Transition

Yokosuka’s Oppama District history is summarized below …. but big changes are coming, as Nissan’s huge automobile manufacturing factory will be closed down …. What will happen there in the future remains to be determined…

==========

The history of Oppama in Yokosuka City is such that the area was originally a scenic location, but land reclamation progressed for the construction of a naval air corps base, making it one of Japan's leading aircraft development centers. After the war, the Oppama plant of Nissan Motor began operations and developed into Nissan's main factory. Additionally, the origin of the name 'Oppama' is also linked to a legend in which Minamoto no Yoriie was pursued by pursuers.

Ancient to Edo Period:  

Legend of Minamoto no Yoriie: There is a legend that Minamoto no Yoriie was chased by pursuers and met his end at the coast of Oihama, and it is said that the name changed from "Oi-hama" to "Oihama."

Founding of Temples: During the Muromachi period, temples such as Nōei-ji, Jitoku-ji, and Hōfuku-ji were founded.

Samurai Governance: Asakura Noto-no-kami, a retainer of Hōjō Sōun, governed Oihama and established Raiden-sha (Raijin Shrine) and Ryōshin-ji.

Edo Shogunate's Stronghold: In the late Edo period, Sakai Tadakiyo became the lord of Urago Village and built Urago Jin'ya.

Meiji Period to World War II Naval Air Force Base: 

In the Meiji era, the Navy carried out land reclamation by cutting down parts of Natsushima and Eboshijima to build airfields, and Oppama became a major base for the former Naval Air Force.

Establishment of the Naval Air Arsenal: In 1932 (Showa 7), the Naval Air Arsenal was also established, becoming the central hub for full-scale aircraft research and development.

Genda Circus: Lieutenant Commander Minoru Genda, who commanded the attack on Pearl Harbor, was also known for conducting acrobatic flight training in Oppama.

U.S. Occupation: 

After the end of World War II, the U.S. military landed on the coast of Oppama (Red Beach) and seized the naval facilities.

Postwar to Present  

Start of operations at Nissan Oppama Plant: In 1961 (Showa 36), the Nissan Oppama Plant began operations and has led automobile production as Nissan’s mother plant. 

Opening of Oppama Park: In 1949 (Showa 24), Oppama Park was opened on the site of the former Navy Air Corps.  

Accumulation of new industries: After the war, the technologies cultivated in aircraft development were applied to the Shinkansen and YS11 passenger aircraft. Today, in addition to Nissan Motors, various industries such as ocean development and shipbuilding have taken root in Oppama.

Historic Uraga District to Get a Makeover

https://news.yahoo.co.jp/articles/dc132c3c02b34bce3de11e6cac3e179f8cad51df

—————

Uraga in Yokosuka City, the site of Perry's arrival and the birthplace of Japanese shipbuilding. The city announced that the preferred negotiator for its development has been decided.

The 'Uraga Dock,' near Uraga Station on the Keikyu Line, is the site of a shipyard built by Sumitomo Heavy Industries. Until its closure in 2003, approximately 1,000 ships, including destroyers and escort vessels, were constructed there.

In March 2021, Sumitomo Heavy Industries transferred the dock and surrounding land to Yokosuka City free of charge, and last March, the two parties signed an agreement to revitalize the area around the station.

On the 23rd, the city announced that the preferred negotiator had been decided following a public recruitment process.

Katsuaki Kamiji, Mayor of Yokosuka City: "The theme of this project is the realization of a 'Second Opening of the Country,' packed with the full charm of Uraga's sea and history, as well as the potential of a new town."

According to the proposal from the business operators, hotels and condominiums will serve as new symbols, and facilities such as paid nursing homes and sports complexes will be established. The design also allows access from the station's second floor via an elevated walkway to Uraga Dock.

Katsuaki Kamiji, Mayor of Yokosuka City: "If a new town can be created as a single entity, incorporating various concepts..."A formal agreement for implementation is scheduled to be concluded between next year and the year after.

Tateishi Park

LINK:  Golden Hour at Tateishi Park: Mt. Fuji Meets the Sea | Yokosuka, Japan

Tateishi Park in Yokosuka, Kanagawa, is a hidden gem offering one of Japan’s most breathtaking sunset views. With the majestic silhouette of Mt. Fuji rising in the distance, this coastal park transforms into a mesmerizing scene as the sun dips below the horizon. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat by the sea, Tateishi Park promises an unforgettable experience. Discover why this picturesque spot has long been cherished for its stunning blend of natural beauty and serenity.

Another LINK:

VIDEO: Scenic Tateishi Park near Yokosuka NB great for breathtaking sunsets  | Stripes Japan

Enjoy an enchanting view of the shoreline and Mount Fuji in the distance from Tateishi Park. This scene is so breathtaking, in fact, that it has been depicted in traditional Ukiyo-e art. Among them, “Soshu Miura Akiya no Sato” (Akiya Village in Kanagawa’s Miura Peninsula) by Ukiyo-e artist Hiroshige Ando (1797–1858) is especially famous.

Unusual Park for Traffic Safety

LINK:  横須賀市根岸交通公園

There is an interesting park/public space in Yokosuka City called "Negishi Traffic Park" (根岸交通公園).  It opened in July 1966, as a neighborhood park, and is located just a few minutes' walk from Keihin Kyuko Railways Kita-Kurihama Station.  Thereafter, in June 1971, in response to a Yokosuka City Traffic Safety City Declaration, a "Traffic Park" section was established in June 1971, with the aim of "developing traffic knowledge and traffic morals through healthy play for children and preventing traffic accidents".  

It features small roads, traffic signs, and signals, similar to urban areas, allowing children to ride bicycles and learn traffic rules in a real-world setting.  Of interest, children's bicycles, tricycles, go-carts, BMX bikes, etc., are available for rentals -- free of charge.  

There are 74 cherry trees planted within the park, and it therefore becomes a bustling place for cherry blossom viewers (花見, Hana-mi) during the blooming season in spring -- and there is a locally famous Cherry Blossom festival held in the park during springtime.  

Additionally, there is an Autumn Festival, where a variety of events, including a flea market (one of Yokosuka's largest), food stalls, an earthquake experience vehicle, a Halloween costume contest, and performances on stage, etc.

More background on Yokosuka's "Blue Eyed Samurai"

LINK:  Blue-eyed samurai | FCCJ

- - - - -

SNIPPET:

In search of the real William Adams, intrepid adventurer and subject of endless fascination

It may be hard to believe, but in 1980, if someone mailed you a Betamax or VHS videocassette tape from abroad, the International Post Office in Otemachi would notify you by postcard of its arrival. The postcard enabled you to claim it in person, but only after customs inspectors had ascertained its contents were not pornographic.

In September 1980, the miniseries Shogun, based on James Clavell's eponymous bestselling novel, was broadcast in the U.S. over five consecutive nights on America's NBC TV. I was able to watch it soon afterwards through a somewhat convoluted process. Peter, a professor friend teaching at a local university, was married to Yasuko, a flight attendant for a European airline. Once or twice a week Yasuko's flights from Europe via the polar route stopped over in Anchorage, Alaska, where Peter had a recruited a friend to record the episodes of Shogun off the local TV. The friend dropped off the recordings at the airport, where they were picked up by Yasuko, who carried them back to Japan. All perfectly legal, of course. 

For several consecutive weekends that autumn, a small group of friends congregated at Peter's house in Nakano-ku and, while swilling beer and snacking on packets of sembei rice crackers, enjoyed watching the videotaped miniseries on a 19-inch Hitachi color TV. 

Four decades later, television viewing has certainly come a long way. Last year the 10 episodes of the remade Shogun miniseries were broadcast on FX, Hulu and the Disney Channel, including to subscribers in Japan. 

Starring Hiroyuki Sanada, Anna Sawai, Tadanobu Asano and Cosmo Jarvis, Shogun 2.0 received wide acclaim, setting a new record as the most awarded single season of television in Emmy history. It additionally received four Golden Globe Awards, including Best Television Series, Drama. 

Jarvis starred in the role of pilot major John Blackthorne, who was based on an actual historical personage, William Adams (1564–1620), the first Englishman to arrive in Japan. 

Adams, who came to be known as Miura Anjin, was 35 years old at the time his Dutch ship out of Rotterdam, De Liefde, dropped anchor off the coast of Bungo in present-day Usuki City in Oita Prefecture, Kyushu, on April 19, 1600. The journey through the Straits of Magellan and across the Pacific had been extremely arduous, with only 24 of De Liefde's original crew of 110 surviving, of whom perhaps only half a dozen were still ambulatory.

In October of the year Adams arrived in Kyushu, the struggle for control of Japan climaxed with Tokugawa Ieyasu's victory at the Battle of Sekigahara, in Mino Province (present-day Gifu Prefecture). According to historical accounts, 19 bronze cannons removed from Adams’s ship contributed to Ieyasu's victory. 

Three years later Ieyasu was officially appointed shogun and Adams, accorded the title of hatamoto (retainer), went on to serve as a trade and diplomatic advisor. He also supervised the building of Japan's first western-style sailing ship. He died in 1620 at age 55 and was buried in Hirado, Nagasaki Prefecture. 

As a hatamoto, Adams received an annual stipend of 250 koku of rice (one koku = 4.96 bushels or 278.3 liters of rice). His domain was located at Hemi, a seaside village in present-day Yokosuka City. 

- - - - -

One local train stop from Hemi station on the Keikyu railway line is Anjinzuka (Anjin burial mound) station. The mound itself, designated a National Historic Site in 1923, is located at a high point in Tsukayama Park. If you want to visit, be prepared for a strenuous uphill climb. A Japanese signboard showing the route to the park is posted outside the station but the route is not well marked, so GPS guidance is advisable. Once you get to the top, which will take about half an hour, you'll enjoy clean air and a panoramic view. Two stone memorials behind a metal gate mark the graves of Adams, on the right, and his wife O-Yuki. The park maintains a rest house and vending machine dispensing chilled beverages. 

Yokosuka City Emblem

This is Yokosuka City's offical emblem.

The center of the harmoniously designed City emblem incorporates the first letters of the city name "Yo-ko" (using katakana characters: ヨ/yo and コ/ko -- note: the ko is reversed)/

The Yo-ko characters are stylistically combined in a circular shape inspired by the ancient Miura clan's "Mitsuhiki/3-Lines" family crest.

The surrounding 8-pointed star is meant to depict a navigational compass for ships and symbolizes Yokosuka's role as an important port city.

This City emblem was established on March 16, 1912, during the 45th year of the Meiji era.

Yokosuka City "Citizens' Charter"

(Promulgated on December 18, 2001)

Yokosuka Citizens' Charter

Yokosuka has the spirit to constantly challenge the creation of a new community that aims to be an appealing city reflecting an abundant wealth of natural assets including the sea and greenery as well as a long history of open interaction with the world.

With the beginning of the 21st Century, we have a desire to lead in this new era, and also have the opportunity to re-launch our Designated Mid-Level City as a place where citizens, businesses, and the city administration join hands in working together. We should therefore carefully observe this Charter in creating an urban community that is full of charm while respecting our hometown's history and culture.

  We will deepen relations with all countries and peoples and contribute to the international community.

  We will preserve the abundant natural beauties of the sea and greenery while creating an attractive and vibrant city.

  We will strive to become a city where children can grow up healthy and where everyone can pursue a meaningful life.

  We will build a local community where all people can have peace of mind through helping one another.

  We will build a city that is safe, able to withstand disasters, and is a comfortable place to live in.

- - - - -

Link:

横須賀市民憲章全文｜横須賀市