Tokyo International Cruise Terminal is a state-of-the-art facility in the heart of Tokyo Bay. It is the largest cruise terminal in Japan and serves as a gateway to the city for tourists from all over the world. The terminal is managed by the Port of Tokyo and was opened in September 2020, just in time for the Tokyo Olympics.
The terminal is equipped with modern amenities and features, including a rooftop observation deck that offers stunning views of Tokyo Bay and the city skyline. It also has shops, restaurants, and other facilities to cater to the needs of passengers and visitors. The terminal is easy to get to and is just a short walk from Yurikamome Tokyo International Cruise Terminal Station.
Key Take Aways:
- Largest cruise terminal in Japan.
- Opened in September 2020.
- Great rooftop observation deck
Facilities and Features
The Tokyo International Cruise Terminal is a modern and state-of-the-art facility that offers a range of features and amenities for visitors. Spread across four floors, the terminal covers an area of 19,000 square meters and can accommodate up to 5,000 passengers at a time.
One of the most striking features of the terminal is its unique design, which is inspired by the waves of the sea and the sails of a ship. The roof of the terminal is made of glass and steel, allowing natural light to flood the interior and providing passengers with stunning views of the surrounding area.
Inside the terminal, you can find restaurants and other amenities. There are also lounges and waiting areas where passengers can relax before boarding their ship. The terminal is equipped with free Wi-Fi, so you can stay connected while you wait.
It is also designed to be accessible for all visitors, including those with disabilities. There are ramps and elevators throughout the terminal, and staff are available to assist visitors who need help.
In addition to its facilities for passengers, the terminal also offers event spaces that can be rented for conferences, exhibitions, and other events. The fourth floor of the terminal has an observation deck that gives you visitors with sweeping views of the surrounding area.
The Terminal is also surprisingly close to downtown Tokyo, making it easily accessible from all parts of the city. It is just a short distance from Tokyo, Shinagawa, and Ueno stations, which serve the Shinkansen (bullet train).
Overall, the Tokyo International Cruise Terminal is a world-class facility that offers a range of features and amenities for visitors. Whether you are boarding a cruise ship, attending an event, or simply enjoying the views from the observation deck, the terminal is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Cruise Lines and Destinations
With the opening of the Tokyo International Cruise Terminal, the city has become a popular destination for cruise ships, attracting a number of major cruise lines. The terminal is designed to handle large ships, including the world’s largest passenger vessels of RCI’s Oasis-class, with a gross tonnage of 220,000 tons.
Some of the popular cruise lines that dock at the Tokyo International Cruise Terminal include Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, and Royal Caribbean. These cruise lines offer itineraries that cover a range of destinations, including:
- Japan: Many cruises departing from Tokyo International Cruise Terminal offer itineraries that explore Japan’s many fascinating cities and landmarks, such as Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Mount Fuji.
- Asia: Tokyo International Cruise Terminal is also a popular starting point for cruises that explore other parts of Asia, including China, South Korea, and Taiwan.
- Alaska: Some of the cruise lines that dock at the terminal also offer itineraries that include stops in Alaska, allowing passengers to experience the beauty of this unique wilderness.
Many of the cruises that depart are designed to cater to a range of interests and budgets, from luxury cruises that offer five-star amenities to more affordable options that provide a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all passengers.
Transportation Options
Getting to Tokyo International Cruise Terminal is easy and convenient, with several transportation options available.
Train: The most popular and affordable way to get to the terminal is by train. The nearest station is Tokyo International Cruise Terminal Station, which is serviced by the driverless trains of the Yurikamome Line. From there, it’s just an 8-minute walk to the terminal. Another option is to take the JR Keiyo Line to Shin-Kiba Station and transfer to the Yurikamome Line.
Bus: If you prefer to take the bus, there are several options available. To get to the terminal from Tokyo Station, take the Toei Bus (Route 01) from the Yaesu South Exit Bus Terminal. The bus ride takes approximately 20 minutes. From Shinagawa Station, take the Toei Bus (Route 02) from the Takanawa Exit Bus Terminal. The bus ride takes approximately 30 minutes.
Taxi: Taxis are readily available in Tokyo, but they can be expensive. If you’re traveling with a group or have a lot of luggage, a taxi may be a convenient option. The ride from Tokyo Station takes approximately 20 minutes, while the ride from Shinagawa Station takes approximately 30 minutes.
Car: If you’re driving to the terminal, there is a parking lot available. However, parking can be expensive and spaces are limited, so it’s best to check availability and prices in advance.
Nearby Attractions and Activities
Visitors will be pleased to know that there are plenty of attractions and activities to enjoy in the surrounding area. Here are a few recommendations:
- Odaiba: This man-made island is a popular destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment. You can enjoy views of Tokyo Bay from the Rainbow Bridge, explore the futuristic Miraikan Science and Innovation Museum, or check out the giant Gundam Statue.
- TeamLab Borderless: Digital art museum with immersive installations and interactive exhibits that showcase the intersection of art and technology. You can spend hours exploring the various rooms and displays.
- Tsukiji Fish Market: This bustling market is a great option for seafood lovers. You can watch the famous tuna auction, sample fresh sushi and sashimi, and browse the various stalls selling seafood and other goods.
- Hama Rikyu Gardens: A traditional Japanese garden that offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. You can stroll through the landscaped gardens, admire the teahouse overlooking the pond, and enjoy a cup of matcha tea.
Overall, Tokyo International Cruise Terminal is a great starting point for exploring all that Tokyo has to offer.
History of Tokyo International Cruise Terminal
The Tokyo International Cruise Terminal is a relatively new addition to the Tokyo waterfront area. The terminal officially opened to the public on September 10, 2020, after several delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The terminal was originally scheduled to open in July 2020 to coincide with the Tokyo Olympics, which were postponed to 2021. The terminal is managed by the Port of Tokyo and is in the Aomi area of Koto-ku.
The Tokyo Port has been an important gateway to Japan for many years. It has been a hub for international shipping and trade since the Meiji period (1868-1912). In recent years, the port has become an important destination for cruise ships. The Tokyo International Cruise Terminal is the newest addition to the port and is designed to accommodate large cruise ships.
The Terminal was designed by the architectural firm, Nikken Sekkei. The terminal features a modern design that incorporates elements of traditional Japanese architecture. The terminal has a total floor area of 19,000 square meters and includes facilities for passengers and crew.
The terminal has one 430-meter berth with a width of 30 meters and a quay depth of 11.5 meters. The terminal is designed to accommodate the world’s largest cruise ships. The terminal building is four stories tall and includes facilities such as a waiting area, customs and immigration facilities, restaurants, shops, and a rooftop observation deck.
The Sum Up
The Tokyo International Cruise Terminal is an impressive gateway to the capital of Japan.
Information | Details |
---|---|
Name (English) | Tokyo International Cruise Terminal |
Name (Japanese) | 東京国際クルーズターミナル |
Address | 1-1-1 Yumenoshima, Koto City, Tokyo 136-0081, Japan |
Website | Official Website (Japanese) |
Nearby Hotels | 1. Hilton Tokyo Odaiba (4.2 km) |
2. Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba (4.1 km) | |
3. Daiwa Roynet Hotel Tokyo Ariake (2.9 km) |