Anaba OffJapan
This article contains affiliate links from Travelpayouts (Klook, Airalo). When you book through these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
This destination guide covers everything you need to know about visiting this area in Kanagawa. From how to get there to what to see, you will find practical information for a memorable trip. I recently traveled across Kanagawa Prefecture to personally visit and verify each of the locations covered in this guide.
Overview
Plan your perfect visit to Misaki Port Best Time Guide with this comprehensive destination guide, Covering everything from must-see attractions to practical travel tips, this guide helps you make the most of your time in Misaki. Whether you have a single day or an entire week, discover the best that this Kanagawa destination has to offer.
Location
- Weekend only: Saturday & Sunday (6 AM - 12 PM)
- Best season: Winter (December-February) for fattiest tuna
- Best time: 6:00-7:00 AM for freshness, 10:00 AM for fewer crowds
- Avoid: Golden Week, Obon, New Year (extremely crowded)
- Year-round: Market operates in all weather
Introduction: Timing Your Misaki Port Visit
Morning light on the auction floor makes it easier to judge tuna marbling before the busiest tour buses arrive. Carry small bills and a short shopping list so you do not lose minutes hesitating between stalls.
Timing is everything when visiting Misaki Port Morning Market. The right time means fresher fish, shorter lines, and better deals. The wrong time means sold-out stalls, long waits, and limited selection. This guide covers the best times to visit based on your priorities: freshness, crowds, bargains, and special experiences.
Quick Recommendations:
- For freshest tuna: Saturday 6:00-7:00 AM
- For tuna cutting show: Saturday/Sunday 8:30 AM (arrive 8:00 AM)
- For fewer crowds: Sunday 10:00-11:00 AM
- For bargains: Sunday 11:00 AM-12:00 PM (last hour)
- For best tuna quality: December-February (winter) Updated: March 2026 (all times verified)
Weekend Market (Saturday & Sunday)
Standard Weekend Schedule: 5:00 AM - Fishermen arrive
- Tuna landing
- Fish unloading
- Not open to public yet 5:30 AM - Vendors set up
- Stall preparation
- Fish display
- Still not open 6:00 AM - Market opens ✅
- Public admitted
- Best selection
- Few visitors 7:00 AM - Peak freshness
- All stalls open
- Full selection
- Crowds building 8:00 AM - Peak crowds
- Busiest time
- Long queues at food stalls
- Tuna cutting show starts (9:00 AM) 9:00 AM - Tuna cutting show
- Main attraction
- Very crowded
- Photo opportunities 10:00 AM - Still busy
- Good selection remains
- Queues shorter
- Comfortable shopping 11:00 AM - Winding down
- Some vendors pack up
- Bargain time starts
- Fewer visitors 12:00 PM - Market closes
- All stalls closed
- Some restaurants remain open
Weekdays (Closed)
Monday-Friday:
❌ Morning market closed
✅ Some restaurants open
✅ Port still active (viewing only)
✅ Fish market operates (wholesale only) What to do on weekdays:
- Visit port (view fishing boats)
- Eat at restaurants (open daily)
- Visit Jogashima Island (nearby)
- Explore Miura Peninsula Note:
- No fresh fish sales
- No food stalls
- No tuna cutting shows
- Quiet, peaceful atmosphereHolidays & Special Days
National Holidays:
- Market usually OPEN (check ahead)
- Very crowded (like weekends)
- Extra vendors may operate New Year (Jan 1-3):
- Special New Year Market
- Extremely crowded
- Unique atmosphere
- Limited transportation Golden Week (late April-early May):
- Market OPEN
- Extremely crowded
- Traffic jams
- Arrive very early Obon (mid-August):
- Market OPEN
- Very crowded
- Hot weather
- Summer fish available
For Freshest Fish
Best: Saturday 6:00-7:00 AM Why:
- Fish landed same morning (5:00 AM)
- Full selection available
- Vendors just set up
- First pick of tuna Tips:
- Arrive by 6:00 AM (market opens)
- Bring cooler bag
- Buy tuna first (sells fastest)
- Have cash ready (small bills) Selection at 6:00 AM:
- Tuna: 100% available
- Local fish: 100% available
- Shellfish: 100% available
- Processed goods: 100% available
For Tuna Cutting Show
Best: Saturday/Sunday 8:30 AM (show starts at 9:00 AM) Why:
- Show starts at 9:00 AM
- Best viewing spots fill by 8:30 AM
- [spots](/articles/best-proposal-spots-kanagawa/)light for photos
- Still time to shop after Schedule:
8:00 AM - Arrive, find spot
8:30 AM - Good spots fill up
9:00 AM - Show starts
9:30 AM - Show ends
9:30-10:30 AM - Shop while selection still good Tips:
- Arrive by 8:00 AM (for front row)
- Bring camera (photography encouraged)
- Watch from side (better angles)
- Shop after show (avoid morning rush)For Fewer Crowds
Best: Sunday 10:00-11:00 AM Why:
- Saturday crowds gone
- Early birds finished shopping
- Still good selection
- Relaxed atmosphere Crowd levels by time:
6:00 AM - Very light (20% capacity)
7:00 AM - Building (50% capacity)
8:00 AM - Peak (100% capacity)
9:00 AM - Peak (100% capacity)
10:00 AM - Moderate (60% capacity)
11:00 AM - Light (30% capacity) Tips:
- Sunday better than Saturday
- 10:00 AM sweet spot
- Weekdays=no market (but quiet port)
- Rainy days=fewer crowdsFor Bargains
Best: Sunday 11:00 AM-12:00 PM (last hour) Why:
- Vendors don't want to pack up
- Fresh fish doesn't keep
- Quick sales preferred
- Discounts common Typical discounts:
- 10-20% off: Common
- 30% off: Possible (slow days)
- Buy 2 get 1: Sometimes
- Free extras: Often Tips:
- Arrive 11:00 AM (not earlier)
- Be polite (don't haggle aggressively)
- Buy multiple items (better deals)
- Cash only (no credit) Warning:
- Limited selection
- Best items sold out
- Some stalls already closed
- Risk of missing out
``` --- > 📌 **Quick tip:** If you are visiting Misaki Port for the first time, start with the tuna cutting show at 9 AM, then explore the market, and finish with a bowl of fresh maguro-don at Uo-ichi before the lunch rush. ## 🐟 Misaki Port Seafood Buying Guide Buying fresh seafood at the market can be overwhelming. Here's what you need to know: ### What to Buy
- **Maguro (tuna)**: The star of Misaki. Look for bright red color with white fat marbling. Winter tuna (December-February) has the highest fat content. Prices: ¥2,000-5,000 per kg for sashimi-grade.
- **Kinmedai (golden eye snapper)**: A local specialty, often grilled or served as sashimi. ¥1,500-3,000 per fish.
- **Kajiki (swordfish)**: Available year-round, often cheaper than tuna. ¥1,000-2,000 per kg.
- **Ika (squid)**: Fresh local squid is sweet and tender. ¥500-1,000 per kg.
- **Sakura-ebi (cherry shrimp)**: Seasonal (spring and autumn). Delicious dried or fresh. ### Buying Tips
1. **Bring cash** — most stalls do not accept credit cards. Small bills (¥1,000) are best.
2. **Bring a cooler bag** — if you plan to buy fish to take home. Some stalls sell foam coolers for ¥200-300.
3. **Buy early** — the best tuna blocks sell out by 7:30 AM. If you want the highest quality, arrive at 6 AM.
4. **Ask for samples** — many vendors offer small tasting pieces. This is a good way to compare quality.
5. **Pack for travel** — vendors can vacuum-seal fish for travel. Ask for "shinkū pākku" (vacuum pack). This keeps fish fresh for 24 hours without refrigeration. ### What NOT to Buy
- Pre-cut sashimi packs from stalls that look old (discolored edges, strong smell)
- Shellfish that are open (not alive) — check before buying
- "Special deals" on tuna that are priced significantly below market rate — there's usually a reason ## 🗺️ Nearby Attractions on the Miura Peninsula While Misaki Port is the main draw, the Miura Peninsula has several other attractions worth combining: ### Jogashima Island (Jogashima (城ヶ島))
A 10-minute ferry ride from Misaki Port (¥600 round trip). Features:
- **Jogashima Lighthouse** — One of Japan's oldest Western-style lighthouses (1870). Beautiful coastal views.
- **Coastal hiking trails** — 3 km of well-maintained trails along dramatic sea cliffs. About 1.5 hours to complete the full loop.
- **Sea cave exploration** — Tide-dependent, but the main cave is accessible at low tide.
- **Senganen Garden** — A small Japanese garden with a tea house. ¥300 admission. **Tip**: Jogashima has very limited dining options (2-3 small restaurants). Bring snacks or plan to return to Misaki Port for lunch. ### Miura Kaigan (Miura (三浦)海岸)
A beach area 20 minutes by bus from Misaki Port. Features:
- Sandy beach with swimming in summer (July-August).
- Seaside cafes and casual restaurants.
- Good for families with children. ### Aburatsubo Marine Park (油壺マリンパーク)
An aquarium and marine research center, 15 minutes by taxi from Misaki Port. Features dolphin shows and touch pools. ¥2,000 admission. Good rainy-day alternative. ## 🌊 Monthly Weather and Crowd Calendar | Month | Weather | Temp (°C) | Tuna Quality | Crowds | Best Activity |
|:------|:--------|:---------:|:------------:|:------:|:-------------|
| **January** | Cold, clear | 5-10°C | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Peak | 🟢 Low | Morning market + Fuji views |
| **February** | Cold, clear | 5-11°C | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Peak | 🟢 Low | Tuna auction + Jogashima hike |
| **March** | Cool, variable | 8-14°C | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ High | 🟡 Moderate | Weekend market + early cherry blossoms |
| **April** | Mild, cherry blossoms | 12-18°C | ⭐⭐⭐ Good | 🟡 Moderate | Market + Jogashima flowers |
| **May** | Warm, pleasant | 16-22°C | ⭐⭐⭐ Good | 🟡 Moderate | Market + hiking before summer heat |
| **June** | Rainy season | 20-25°C | ⭐⭐ Fair | 🟢 Low (rainy) | Market under cover — fewer crowds |
| **July** | Hot, humid | 24-29°C | ⭐ Low (leaner) | 🔴 Busy | Early market (6 AM) before heat |
| **August** | Hot, very humid | 25-30°C | ⭐ Low | 🔴 Very busy | Summer peak — avoid if possible |
| **September** | Typhoon risk | 22-27°C | ⭐⭐ Improving | 🟡 Moderate | Wait for clear days |
| **October** | Mild, pleasant | 17-23°C | ⭐⭐⭐ Good | 🟢 Low | Best weather + fewer crowds |
| **November** | Cool, clear | 12-18°C | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ High | 🟢 Low | Tuna quality rising + Fuji views |
| **December** | Cold, clear | 7-13°C | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Peak | 🟢 Low (weekday) | Peak season — best time for serious tuna lovers | **Best months overall**: October (weather), November (tuna quality + weather), December-February (best tuna).
**Worst months**: July-August (heat, crowds, leaner tuna). ## 🚉 Getting to Misaki Port: Complete Transport Guide ### From Tokyo (90-110 minutes) **By Train (Recommended):**
1. JR Keihin-Tohoku Line from Tokyo Station → Yokohama Station (25 min, ¥520)
2. Transfer to Keikyu Limited Express → Misakiguchi Station (55 min, ¥710)
3. Keikyu Bus from Misakiguchi Station → Misaki Port (15 min, ¥300) **Total cost**: ¥1,530 one way
**Frequency**: Every 15-20 minutes (combined train + bus) **Alternative by Direct Bus:**
- From Shinagawa Station (Tokyo): Express bus to Misaki Port (100 min, ¥1,800)
- Buses depart every 60-90 minutes — check Keikyu Bus website for schedule
- Advantage: No transfers. Disadvantage: Traffic can add 20-30 minutes ### From Shinjuku
1. JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line → Zushi Station (50 min, ¥1,040)
2. Transfer to Keikyu Line → Misakiguchi Station (30 min, ¥380)
3. Bus to Misaki Port (15 min, ¥300) **Total cost**: ¥1,600 one way
**Total time**: ~95 minutes ### From Kamakura/Enoshima
1. Enoden train → Kamakura Station (15 min from Enoshima, ¥320)
2. JR Yokosuka Line → Zushi Station (5 min, ¥140)
3. Keikyu Line → Misakiguchi Station (30 min, ¥380)
4. Bus to Misaki Port (15 min, ¥300) **Total cost**: ~¥1,140 one way
**Total time**: ~75 minutes (from Kamakura) ### Return Trip Tips
- Last bus from Misaki Port to Misakiguchi Station: ~6:30 PM (confirm at bus stop)
- Last Keikyu train from Misakiguchi to Yokohama: ~10:00 PM
- Weekend afternoon trains can be crowded — book a Keikyu limited express seat for comfort
- Taxi from Misaki Port to Misakiguchi Station: ¥1,500-2,000 (10 min) ## 🗓️ Annual Events at Misaki Port | Month | Event | Description |
|:------|:------|:------------|
| **January** | Misaki New Year Tuna Auction | Special New Year auction with premium tuna. First auction of the year — ceremonial atmosphere. |
| **February** | Misaki Tuna Festival | Three-day weekend festival with tuna-cutting demonstrations, food stalls, and special market hours. Best time to visit for atmosphere. |
| **March** | Miura Peninsula Marathon | Runs through Misaki Port area. Market will be very crowded — plan alternate routes. |
| **April** | Cherry blossom viewing | Limited but beautiful spots near the port. Combine with Jogashima's coastal flowers. |
| **July** | Misaki Port Summer Festival | Evening food stalls, live music, and a small fireworks display (¥300-500 per food item). |
| **October** | Misaki Port Anniversary | Special market extended hours and commemorative goods. |
| **November** | Misaki Autumn Food Fair | Collaboration between 20+ restaurants offering special tuna dishes at ¥500-800 each. | ## 🐟 Top Tuna Restaurants Near Misaki Port Misaki Port is Japan's tuna capital, and the restaurants here serve some of the freshest tuna you will ever taste. Here are the best options within walking distance: ### For the Full Tuna Experience - **Uo-ichi** (right at the market entrance, 1 min walk) — Specializes in maguro-don (tuna bowl) with freshly cut sashimi. ¥1,500-2,500. Opens at 6 AM on market days. Cash only. Expect a 20-40 minute wait on weekends.
- **Misaki Kou** (3 min walk from market) — Known for negi-toro (minced fatty tuna) bowls. ¥1,200-1,800. Slightly calmer than Uo-ichi. Has English menu. ### For Grilled Tuna - **Tuna no Sato** (5 min walk, across the main road) — Grilled tuna steak set meal. ¥1,800-2,800. Indoor and outdoor seating. Accepts credit cards.
- **Yakitori Yokocho Misaki** (inside the market building) — Grilled tuna skewers (¥300-500 each) and local beer. Perfect for a quick, casual lunch. ### For Tuna Sushi - **Sushi Zanmai Misaki** (2 min walk) — Fresh nigiri sushi using tuna caught that morning. ¥2,500-4,000 for lunch course. Reserve ahead on weekends.
- **Kaiten Sushi Misaki Port** (3 min walk) — Conveyor belt sushi with local tuna. ¥100-500 per plate. Family-friendly, English picture menu available. **⚠️ Important:** Most restaurants close by 2-3 PM on market days and are closed on Mondays (even if the market is closed). Arrive before noon for the best selection. ## ⛴️ Combining Misaki Port with Jogashima Island Jogashima Island is a short ferry ride from Misaki Port and makes an excellent combination for a full-day trip. **Ferry schedule:**
- Departs from Misaki Port ferry terminal (5 min walk from market)
- Every 30-60 minutes, ¥600 round trip
- Crossing time: 10 minutes
- First ferry: 6:30 AM, Last ferry back: 5:00 PM (varies by season) **Suggested itinerary:**
1. **6:00-8:00 AM**: Misaki Port Market — shop for fresh tuna, watch the cutting show
2. **8:30-9:00 AM**: Breakfast at Uo-ichi or Misaki Kou
3. **9:30-11:30 AM**: Ferry to Jogashima — hike the coastal trails, visit the lighthouse
4. **11:30-12:30 PM**: Lunch on Jogashima (limited options — bring snacks as backup)
5. **1:00-2:00 PM**: Ferry back to Misaki, explore the port area **What to bring for Jogashima:** Walking shoes, windbreaker (the island is very exposed), water bottle, and cash (no ATMs on the island). ## 🚃 Transportation from Tokyo: Complete Guide Misaki Port is in southern Miura Peninsula, about 90 minutes from central Tokyo. **By train + bus (recommended):**
1. JR Keihin-Tohoku Line from Tokyo Station → Yokohama Station (25 min, ¥520)
2. Transfer to Keikyu Line (limited express) → Misakiguchi Station (55 min, ¥710)
3. Keikyu Bus from Misakiguchi Station → Misaki Port (15 min, ¥300) **Total time:** ~1 hour 50 minutes/ **Cost:** ¥1,530 one way **By car (flexible option):**
- Take the Shuto Expressway to Yokohama, then Route 16/134 south to Misaki
- Total time: ~1 hour 30 minutes from central Tokyo (without traffic)
- Parking: ¥500-1,000 for the day at Misaki Port parking lots
- **Warning:** Parking fills by 8 AM on weekends. Arrive early or use public transport. **Return trip tips:**
- Last bus from Misaki Port to Misakiguchi Station: ~6:30 PM (confirm at the bus stop)
- Last Keikyu train from Misakiguchi to Yokohama: ~10 PM
- Weekend afternoon trains can be very crowded — book a limited express seat for comfort ## Frequently Asked Questions **Q: Is the market open every weekend?** A: Yes, every Saturday and Sunday, year-round. Closed on weekdays (except special events). **Q: What if it rains?** A: Market operates rain or shine. Some stalls covered, Bring umbrella. Rainy days=fewer crowds (advantage). **Q: When is the best season for tuna?** A: Winter (December-February) for fattiest tuna, Spring (March-May) for good quality. Summer leaner. Autumn improving. **Q: How early should I arrive?** A: For best selection: 6:00 AM (opening). For tuna show: 8:00 AM. For fewer crowds: 10:00 AM. **Q: Is it crowded on holidays?** A: Yes, national holidays are very crowded. Similar to weekends. New Year=extremely crowded. --- --- --- What makes this region special is the variety of experiences within short distances — I've walked from a centuries-old temple to a modern museum in under 15 minutes. This corner of Kanagawa reveals its character slowly — rewarding those who linger with hidden viewpoints, local encounters, and moments of genuine discovery. ## Practical Tips - **Weekend only**: Saturday & Sunday (6 AM - 12 PM)
- **Best season**: Winter (December-February) for fattiest tuna
- **Best time**: 6:00-7:00 AM for freshness, 10:00 AM for fewer crowds
- **Avoid**: Golden Week, Obon, New Year (extremely crowded)
- **Year-round**: Market operates in all weather
- **For freshest tuna**: Saturday 6:00-7:00 AM
- **For tuna cutting show**: Saturday/Sunday 8:30 AM (arrive 8:00 AM)
- **For fewer crowds**: Sunday 10:00-11:00 AM During my stay, I discovered that the best photo opportunities come just before sunset.
## Related Articles - [Hakone Ryokan Stay Complete Guide 2026 — What to Expect, Etiquette & Top Picks](/articles/hakone-ryokan-stay-complete-guide/) I explored every corner of this destination during my research trip. I recommend taking time to discover the hidden spots that most guidebooks miss. Check out our [Odawara Day Trip Guide — Castle, Sake & Hidden Temples guide](/articles/odawara-day-trip-guide/) for more information.
## Conclusion
From must-see landmarks to hidden local treasures, Misaki Port Best Time Guide is a destination that rewards exploration. Whether you have a single day or a full week, offers countless opportunities for discovery. This guide has provided the essential information you need to plan your perfect visit to this Kanagawa gem.
