Key points about Shodoshima
- Japanese cruise ships such as the Asuka III anchor off the island, and passengers disembark at Sakate Port by tender boat (a small ferry). Disembarking is only permitted during the daytime.
- Known as the "Island of Olives," it is popular for the beautiful scenery of the Kankakei Gorge and Angel Road, a path that appears only at low tide.
- Depending on the weather, tender boats may not be able to operate, and landing may not be possible.
Last verified: September 29, 2026 (Source at the end of this page)
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Visiting Japan on a cruise?
Landing permits, all-aboard time, cash and cards, getting around, tax-free shopping and what to do in an emergency: see our Port Day Guide for cruise passengers. Working on board? See the Crew Guide (shore leave, sign-on, shopping near the terminal).
Emergency: 110 police / 119 ambulance & fire / Japan Visitor Hotline +81-50-3816-2787 (24/7, English, Chinese, Korean)
What kind of port is Shodoshima?
Shodoshima is the second largest island in the Seto Inland Sea. It is known as the birthplace of olive cultivation in Japan, and is also a major producer of soy sauce and somen noodles.
Docking location and access
| Landing site | Sakate Port (landing by tender boat) |
|---|---|
| Note | Depending on weather and wave conditions, landing may not be possible. |
| Movement within the island | Bus, taxi, and boat company tours |
Useful information about the port (tourist information, currency exchange, ATMs, Wi-Fi)
Here is some useful information for sightseeing around Sakate Port, where cruise ships dock (based on official sources).
| Port facilities | Sakate Port Terminal "Sakaterasu": Offers motorcycle rentals, Shodoshima olive oil tastings, and hands-free sightseeing services. Opening hours vary depending on the season, so please check the official website. |
|---|---|
| Movement within the island | Bus, taxi, and boat company tours |
If you want to withdraw Japanese yen using a card issued overseas,Seven Bank ATM(Seven-Eleven, etc.)Japan Post Bank ATMIt's convenient. You can find ATMs on the map below.
To Crew Members (Shopping during short shore leave)
At Sakate Port, where you disembark by tender boat, you'll find the port terminal "Sakaterasu". Nearby supermarkets and drugstores can be found on the map below. For information on disembarkation procedures, duty-free shopping, and ATMs, please see below.Guide for Crew StaffPlease take a look.
Facilities and operating hours may vary depending on the port of call and time of year. (Date confirmed: October 1, 2026 Source:Shodoshima Sakate Port Terminal "Sakaterasu"）
Recommended ways to spend your time depending on the length of your port call
half day
- Shodoshima Olive Park: A park overlooking olive groves and the Seto Inland Sea.
- Kankakei Gorge: A scenic spot considered one of Japan's three most beautiful gorges. A ropeway is available.
- Angel Road: A popular spot where a path to the island appears only at low tide.
Port town cuisine
- Hand-stretched somen noodles: A specialty product of Shodoshima Island.
- Soy sauce and tsukudani (simmered seafood/vegetables): Specialties of "Shoyu no Sato," a town lined with soy sauce breweries.
- Olives: Olive oil, freshly pickled olives, etc.
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Map of shops around the port
This is a list of restaurants near Sakate Port on Shodoshima Island. Clicking on a restaurant on the map will show you its opening hours and customer reviews (Google Maps). Please check in advance whether the restaurant is open on the day of your visit.
Major passenger ships that call at this port
The number of port calls was compiled based on scheduled arrivals from July 2026 to October 2026 (as of September 29, 2026). You can view the ship's introduction page by clicking on the ship name link. Source:WEB CRUISE "Cruise Ship Port Arrival Calendar"Please note that schedules are subject to change, so check the port's official website for the latest information.
From July to October, typhoons can cause skipped port calls or changed port times. See our typhoon and cruise guide for refunds and how to prepare.
FAQ
Q1Can you land on Shodoshima Island directly from the boat?
Large passenger ships anchor offshore, and passengers disembark at Sakate Port by tender boat.
Q2Is Angel Road always accessible?
The path only appears around low tide. Please check the tide times before visiting.
Q3Can I rent a motorbike at Sakate Port on Shodoshima Island?
Sakate Port Terminal "Sakaterasu" offers a motorcycle rental service. Operating hours vary depending on the season, so please check their official website.
Source/Reference Information
- Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, Ports and Harbors Bureau, "Ports Nationwide"
- Asuka Cruises "Autumn Setouchi Iwakuni & Shodoshima Cruise"
- Asuka Cruises "Autumn Setouchi Wakayama & Shodoshima Cruise Departing from and Arriving in Hakata"
Last updated: September 29, 2026. Information is subject to change. Please let us know of any inaccuracies or issues you notice through reviews or inquiries.
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