Lots to "Sea" & Do!

New Aquarium "Umikirara"


On the weekends Sasebo car license plates become prominent in Tenjin as Sasebo residents flock to Fukuoka for shopping - but we suggest just the opposite. Summer is the best time to enjoy and explore Sasebo, a small city with a fascinating history and spectacular seaside scenery. Saikai Pearl Sea Resort, located just minutes by car from downtown Sasebo is located within Saikai National Park Kujyukushima. The literal translation of Kujyukushima is "99 Islands", but in fact there are 208 islands bunched up in a bay. Nowhere else in Japan has so many islands in so small an area. It's so picturesque it was used as a backdrop for scenes in "The Last Samurai".


Umikirara Aquarium


Learn and be entertained by nature's sea creatures inside the newly renovated Umikirara Aquarium

Umikirara Aquarium
Admission: Adults ¥1,400, Children ¥700
09:00 ~ 18:00 (Mar. ～ Oct.), 09:00 ~ 17:00 (Nov. ～ Feb.)
www.pearlsea.jp


Pearl Sea
1008 Kashimae-cho, Sasebo City
0956-28-4187


Relaxing Cruise


Thanks to its flat bottom, this boat can navigate into the shallowest waters permitting access to areas the larger boats can't get to. The sofa seating is really comfy too! Stay cool in the shade while enjoying the sea breeze, views and commentary from the boat's crew.

Seats up to 12. (50 min. cruise)
Adults: ¥2,000, Children ¥1,000
Private charters and sunset cruise available.


Sea Kayak


For the more athletic and adventurous, consider taking a sea kayak out for a spin. No experience is necessary, and life jackets and basic instruction is provided. Beginners are let loose inside the inner harbor. Guided tours for experienced kayakers run amongst the islands.

45 min.
Single kayaks: ¥500, Two-person kayaks ¥1,000
Includes short lecture and instruction, and life jackets.


Yacht Sailing


Depending on the winds a ride on a forty-foot yacht can be either a smooth or an exhilarating way to reach the islands. Professional and friendly staff let you take the helm and help with the ropes. If the wind dies then no worries as the yachts can cruise comfortably by engine.

60 min.
Adults: ¥2,500, Children ¥1,500
Private charters (2, 4, 6 hours) for up to 10 persons available


Fantasy Cruises


For those who wish to see the scenery from a high perspective and at a faster pace, board either the Pearl Queen or Kaioh for a fantasy cruise amongst the Kujyukushima. Many departures every day.

Pearl Queen
Seats up to 280. (50 min. cruise)
Adults: ¥1,200, Children ¥600
Five cruises daily: 10:00, 11:00, 13:00, 14:00, 15:00 (subject to change, check before)
* features barrier free access


Kaioh
Seats up to 150. 50 min. cruise
Adults: ¥1,200, Children ¥600
Three cruises daily: 11:30, 13:30, 14:30 (subject to change, check before)
* plus special treasure hunt and pirate entertainment cruises in the summer. Call for details.



Stamina Honpo Kaya

The American Naval base in Sasebo has influenced many things, not least Sasebo's cuisine! Sasebo Burgers are now famous throughout Japan. While in the eyes and more importantly, the mouths of many foreigners, not necessarily authentically American, they are definitely big! We stopped by Stamina Honpo Kaya for their HUGE burgers and tasty Chicken Burger too. Choice of fries with or without skins too!

113-2 Yamato-cho, Sasebo City
11:00 ~ 21:00
Closed: Mon. but open if Mon is a Hol.
Special Burger: ¥550
Chicken Cutlet Burger: ¥450


Tough

The expression "a hole in the wall" is normally not used to recommend a restaurant, but in Sasebo, expect the unexpected! Located along Tonneru Yoko-cho just minutes from the entrance to Sasebo Arcade, "Tough" is inside a narrow WWII period bomb shelter. Owner Nagao-san has been serving tasty izakaya-style dishes (pasta recommended!) for 17 years.

5-26 Tonoo-cho, Sasebo City
Tel.
0956-22-6822
18:00 ~ 02:00 (~12:00 Sun. and Hol.)
Closed: irregular, usually Sun.
Prices: Pasta ¥750, Cocktails ¥700, Draft beer: ¥500


Sasebo Spinning Tops

Either as a toy or conversation piece these handmade wooden tops with their colorful motifs make a great souvenir. Visit Sasebo Koma Honpo and see them being made or try their unique overhand and underhand throwing techniques. Paint your own top. Reservation required, ¥630 ~ (includes one top).

9-13 Shimanji-cho, Sasebo
Tel.
0956-22-7934
9:30 ~ 18:30
Closed: irregular

Chisun Grand Sasebo

Centrally located and with a view of the river this hotel features spacious rooms with American-size beds. The restaurant of the ground floor has a grand breakfast buffet and at lunch and dinner it offers a buffet of Japanese dishes made from farm fresh local produce.

5-24 Minato-machi, Sasebo City
Tel.
0956-24-0200
Check-in 13:00 / Check-out 11:00
Deluxe Twin: ¥19,800 (smaller less expensive rooms available) Check online for discount rates.