The Port of Osaka continues to break tourism records, being the closest port in Japan to Kyoto and Nara, which are two of the country’s most popular tourist destinations, said Kazushi Nakakoji, director general of Osaka Ports & Harbors Bureau.

The port was set to see 66 calls in 2025, a new record, which is set to be eclipsed by 80 calls in 2026, bringing 140,000 cruise guests to Osaka.

Nakakoji told Cruise Industry News that the port is in Japan’s second-largest city, where visitors can enjoy both an attractive city life and lively interactions with locals.

“Located approximately 30 minutes from the Kansai International Airport, it is accessible and used by many visitors as a gateway to Kansai and western Japan,” Nakakoji explained.

The port has two main cruise berths: the Tempozan Wharf, which is 430 meters long and can accommodate ships up to 220,000 tons, and the Central Pier North Wharf, which is 210 meters long and can accommodate ships up to 30,000 tons.

“Last May, a new passenger terminal was renovated and reopened at our port. Doubling in size, it affords a seamless passenger experience,” Nakakoji added.