Maizuru City, facing the Sea of Japan, is known as the “Kyoto by the Sea”. Located to the north of Kyoto, the city has an atmosphere of a sea town different from that of Kyoto City, where Japanese history remains. With red-brick warehouses that were once naval facilities and an observatory overlooking Maizuru Bay, this is a perfect area to experience a new charm of Kyoto.
Access to Maizuru City takes about 2 hours by train from Kyoto Station to Higashi Maizuru Station. For transportation within Maizuru city, we recommend taking a local bus or renting a car. This article will introduce seven recommended spots in Maizuru, so please take a look at them for your trip.
To learn more about Kyoto, click here.
Maizuru Red Brick Park（舞鶴赤れんがパーク）
The red brick warehouses were once built as naval facilities, and of the 12 red brick warehouses, 8 are registered as National Important Cultural Properties. The buildings that are still in use today are popular tourist spots where visitors can enjoy a museum, souvenir store, café, and other facilities.
Maizuru’s popular gourmet “Kaiji Curry” is sold at the café and store. Kaiji Curry is made from the same recipe as that used in the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force fleet. It is served at various restaurants, so it is recommended to compare them. Retort-type products are also available, making them popular as souvenirs.
The “Red Brick Museum” in Building 1 is the only brick-themed museum in the world. It is housed in a warehouse built in 1903 and is the oldest existing steel-frame brick building in existence. Bricks from ancient civilizations around the world and a diorama showing the topography of Maizuru Harbor are also on display.
Maizuru Bay Sightseeing Boat（海軍ゆかりの港めぐり遊覧船）
This 35-minute harbor cruise takes visitors on a tour of destroyers, shipyards, and other spots associated with the Navy. You can also see the pier where the popular anime “Detective Conan” movie was set.
The sightseeing boat stop is located near the Red Brick Museum, so it is recommended to visit “Maizuru Red Brick Park” together. Tickets are available on the day of the tour, but reservations can also be made online, so please visit the official website for details.
Official website: https://maizuru-kanko.net/recommend/cruise
Gorogatake Park（五老ヶ岳公園）
Gorogadake, 300 meters above sea level, is a natural park that stretches to the top of the mountain. Selected as one of the “Kinki 100 Sceneries,” it offers a spectacular view of Maizuru Bay and the city of Maizuru. Depending on the season, a sea of clouds can be seen early in the morning.
Another must-see spot is the observation deck of the “Goro Sky Tower” located within the park. There is an admission fee, but you can enjoy a 360-degree view of the beautiful Rias coastline and the city of Maizuru.
GORO SKY CAFE nanako
This stylish café is located in Gorogadake Park. The all-glass interior allows you to enjoy an elegant lunch or café time with a view of Maizuru Bay.
In addition to the popular curry, there are many photogenic menu items such as a five-tiered hamburger with a great impact and colorful drinks.
East Yoshiwara（東吉原）
The fishing town area is also known as the “Venice of Japan”. The retro atmosphere of the streets makes it a popular photo spot for foreign tourists. The area is lined with private homes, and the back alleys are especially narrow. A leisurely stroll is a good choice, but we also recommend renting a bicycle and enjoying the sea breeze as you explore the area.
Maizuru Port Tore Tore Center（道の駅 舞鶴港とれとれセンター）
The “Maizuru Port Tore Tore Centerr” sells fresh seafood caught at Maizuru Port. Visitors can choose from a variety of seafood on display and have it cooked into sashimi or grilled seafood. We also recommend the original Kaisen-don, a bowl of rice topped with the sashimi of your choice.
Maizuru crab is a must-try. “Maizuru crab” refers to only snow crabs landed at the Maizuru fishing port that weigh 800 grams or more and are in good shape. It is an exquisite brand of crab that can be enjoyed during the winter season.
Kongoin Temple（金剛院）
The three-story pagoda of Kongoin Temple is designated as an important cultural property and also houses many cultural assets. The scenery is beautiful from season to season, but it is especially spectacular during the autumn foliage season, when the leaves turn red and orange. The autumn colors of the leaves are especially beautiful, attracting the hearts of all who visit.
