Sign up to get the hottest cruise deals!
Shimonoseki, Japan
Situated along the Kanmon Straits, Shimonoseki is a bustling international port city steeped in a dramatic past, encircled by natural beauty and at the center of the fugu — puffer fish — trade. Dining on fugu is considered a delicacy, albeit a dangerous one, in Japan. The toxic fish, if prepared incorrectly, can poison adventurous eaters. But there’s so much more to discover here than the city’s wealth of quality seafood restaurants. Visit elegant gardens and historic shrines and temples, learn about the region’s famous battles at a local museum or enjoy a stroll under the sea, along the Kanmon Pedestrian Tunnel.
Shimonoseki Cruise Image Gallery
What you NEED TO KNOW
-
Port Name & Location
Shimonoseki, Japan -
Time Zone
Japan Standard Time -
Language
Japanese For thank you, say “arigatou gozaimasu” and “dou itashimashite” is you’re welcome. Hello is “konnichiwa” and for please, say “onegai shimasu.” -
Currency & Shopping
Yen As the city’s largest shopping district, Shimonoseki Station offers numerous stores offering a wide range of goods, from designer brands to local crafts to electronics and more. -
Famous For
Shimonoseki is known as the largest supplier of puffer fish and boasts a thriving fish market, in addition to temples and a scenic countryside to explore. -
Important
There’s no strict dress code for visiting temples and shrines but modest clothing is preferred. Most do require that you remove your shoes, so you may want to have a good pair of socks available to wear while touring the locations. -
Fun Fact #1
Fugu — also known as puffer fish — is the star resident. Eighty percent of the country’s fugu are harvested in the waters off Shimonoseki. This fish is infamous for its toxicity as well as its meat, which is considered a delicacy. You can visit the Karato Market for a glimpse of these notorious fish. -
Fun Fact #2
Having been designated a national treasure, Kozan-ji Temple is one of Japan’s oldest Zen-style temples. Located in a tranquil mountain forest setting, you can enjoy fantastic views of the natural surroundings while exploring the temple. -
Fun Fact: Foodies
For those wishing to live on the edge, try the famed puffer fish. And for other guests wishing for a less adventurous/death defying dining experience, local restaurants offer a diverse line up of delicious fresh seafood dishes to sample. -
Fun Fact: Landmarks
The Kaikyo Yume Tower is easy to spot, rising 501 feet above the ground. For fantastic 360-degree vistas, take the elevator to the observation deck, which sits at a height of over 450 feet.