Port Guide | Japan | Dive Deep
Aburatsu
Isabella Moreno | Editor
Published on 2025-10-31
Stepping off your plush floating apartment onto dry land in Aburatsu, you're probably wondering why your itinerary stops in a place you've never heard of rather than, say, Tokyo or Kyoto. Excellent question: Aburatsu is Japan's quiet ace up its kimono sleeve-unpretentious, breezy, and blissfully free of selfie sticks wielded by throngs of packaged tourists. Once a bustling timber trading port that shipped cedar logs to build temples across Japan (you're welcome, Kyoto), this comfortably sleepy coastal enclave now specializes in tempting travelers with two irresistible exports: absurdly fresh seafood and soothing hot springs. After weeks of decks, docks, and lukewarm buffets, embrace dry land by slurping down sashimi so fresh even the fish are impressed, then soak away your sea legs in a mineral-rich onsen. If you're feeling ambitious-though no pressure-Aburatsu is also your gateway to mist-draped Kirishima National Park, an ideal setting for occasional spiritual epiphanies and woodland selfies bound to torment friends back home. Welcome to Aburatsu: small-town charm, unapologetic relaxation, and just enough adventure to remind you why leaving the cruise ship was an inspired decision.
Japan has 16 Travel Advisories
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Notes from the Editor
Aburatsu is known for its scenic coastline and hot springs. Travelers can enjoy local cuisine, including fresh seafood. It's also a gateway to nearby attractions such as Kirishima National Park.
Where do cruise ships dock in Aburatsu?
Port Name Aburatsu
Country Japan
Region Asia
Ship Terminal Aburatsu Port Terminal
Port Type Dedicated Port
Accessibility The port is located approximately 2 km from the city center, accessible via taxi and local bus services.
What's the weather like in Aburatsu?
Best Season to Visit Spring (April - June) and Autumn (September - November)
Climate Temperate climate with warm summers and mild winters.
Weather Notes Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather, while summer can sometimes experience heavy rain. Typhoon season typically peaks from August to September, so it's advisable to check forecasts before traveling.
Temperature Range 60F to 75F (15C to 24C)
High Temp 89F
Low Temp 30F
Average Temp 60F
What do I need to know about Aburatsu?
Language Japanese
Currency Japanese Yen (JPY)
Card Widely Accepted 1
Population Approximately 12,000
Timezone Japan Standard Time (JST)
How do I get around Aburatsu?
Taxis, local buses, car rentals available; paved pathways for pedestrian access.
What are The Best Things to do in Aburatsu?
Discover what you should do while you're in Aburatsu.
Experiences you can't replicate elsewhere
Aburatsu Market Exploration
N/A
Experience local life shopping in a bustling coastal market known for unique seafood delicacies.
Distance from Terminal: 0.5 miles
Tanegashima Rocket Attend Launch
N/A
Visit one of Asia's prominent rocket launching spots and witness a live spacecraft launch.
Distance from Terminal: 120 miles
Participate in Tea Ceremony
N/A
Experience traditional tea rituals in authentic settings.
Distance from Terminal: 1 miles
Cherry Blossom Picnics
N/A
An essential treat of spring in Aburatsu parks with food, music, and cherry blossoms.
Distance from Terminal: 0.7 miles
Street Food Crawl
N/A
Discover tasty local specialties exclusive to Aburatsu street food vendors.
Distance from Terminal: 0.5 miles
Visit a Cat Island
N/A
A quirky trip to an island with feline residents vastly outnumbering humans.
Distance from Terminal: 50 miles
Historical and cultural landmarks
Shrine Hopping Aburatsu
N/A
Explore hidden shrines scattered throughout the city, each telling a unique part of the local history.
Distance from Terminal: 1 miles
Shouju-in Lantern Viewing
N/A
See hundreds of handmade lanterns illuminating the temple gardens at night.
Distance from Terminal: 0.8 miles
Sake Brewery Tour
N/A
Understand the traditional sake production in a centuries-old brewery.
Distance from Terminal: 2 miles
Local Festival Participation
N/A
Immerse yourself in vibrant traditional Aburatsu festivals exclusive to spring and autumn.
Distance from Terminal: 0.4 miles
Adventure and Outdoor Activities
Immerse in Traditional Fishing
N/A
Join local fishermen, experiencing ancient fishing techniques passed down generations.
Distance from Terminal: 1.5 miles
Mountain Hiking with Fuji-view
N/A
Scenic hiking with potential views of Mount Fuji on clear autumn days.
Distance from Terminal: 5 miles
Kashima Coast Exploration
N/A
Explore the scenic coast filled with unique rock formations and caves.
Distance from Terminal: 7 miles
Overnight Trips
Countryside Farm Stay
N/A
Overnight stay in traditional rural Japanese settings, experiencing local farm life.
Distance from Terminal: 20 miles
Stay in a Ryokan
N/A
Traditional Japanese inn experience with natural hot springs and tatami rooms.
Distance from Terminal: 15 miles
A Little Extra
Autumn Scenic Train Rides
N/A
Ride through stunning autumn landscapes aboard vintage trains.
Distance from Terminal: 10 miles
Kimono Rental Experience
N/A
Walk through historic streets dressed in an authentic Japanese kimono.
Distance from Terminal: 1 miles
Japan Regional Tip
Valuing punctuality and respecting scheduled times meticulously. Arrive a few minutes early for meetings or appointments as lateness is viewed as disrespect towards others’ time.