Japan offers diverse cruising grounds featuring over 7,000 islands and 34,000 kilometres of coastline. The Seto Inland Sea (Setouchi Region) is referred to as “Japan’s Mediterranean” and features over 700 islands, calm waters, and rich cultural history.

The Miura Peninsula, where Uraga is located, is often described as a leading hub of marine culture, with one of the highest concentrations of marinas in Japan. Blessed with the calm waters of Sagami Bay, spectacular views of Mount Fuji, and excellent accessibility from central Tokyo, the area has long been popular with recreational yacht owners.

The historic Uraga Shipyard site in Yokosuka, Kanagawa Prefecture, south of Tokyo, is considered the birthplace of Japan’s shipbuilding.

Uraga holds immense historical significance as the arrival dock for Commodore Matthew Perry’s “Black Ships” in 1853, which forced an end to Japan’s 220-year policy of self-isolation and triggered the rapid modernisation of Japan.

The proposed development features a superyacht marina, luxury hotels, and residential estate, with the objective of driving yacht tourism to Japan.

While other marinas, such as the Kobe Marina development south of Osaka, are also underway, the Uraga project is specifically identifed as a major, pioneering step to provide dedicated infrastructure for visiting superyachts.

At the heart of the Uraga master plan is a vision of a seamless waterfront lifestyle precinct. A superyacht marina anchors the development, complemented by residences, a luxury hotel, curated retail spaces, marine infrastructure, education facilities and conference venues.

According to project proponents, these natural and geographic advantages position Uraga as a compelling candidate for an international yachting and marine lifestyle hub.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Index CEO Kimikazu Uemura framed the development as a symbolic continuation of Uraga’s maritime legacy, describing it as a “Second Opening of Japan”.

Mayor Katsuaki Uechi promised improved infrastructure including roads and helipads to strengthen ties to neighbouring areas.

Index President Koichi Uemura said, “We aim to make this the gateway to Japan for superyachts, of which there are said to be 8,000 worldwide.”

Architect Kengo Kuma added, “It will be a place where the sea, mountains, and railways connect – a place that is second to none in the world.”

Team Perry’s will undertake surveys and preparatory works through 2026–2027, with detailed design and construction scheduled for 2027–2028, followed by a phased opening of public and private precincts from 2029 onward.

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