Yokosuka is known for its historical significance as the landing site of Commodore Perry during the Edo period, its crucial defensive role during World War II, and its current cultural diversity. The city features various historical landmarks, including Kannonzaki Park with Japan's first Western-style lighthouse, and Mikasa Park, home to the Mikasa, the world's oldest surviving steel battleship.

Another feature is the Yokosuka Museum of Art, designed by 2024 Pritzker Prize winner Riken Yamamoto. Popular dining spots such as the exotic Dobuita Street and the retro atmosphere of Wakamatsu Market, which harkens back to the Showa period (1926–1989), offer unique Yokosuka experiences from day to night.

Sarushima serves as the main venue for SENSE ISLAND/LAND. Sarushima is Tokyo Bay's only natural island surrounded by water on all sides, accessible by a 10-minute ferry ride from Mikasa Pier. During the late Edo period in the mid-19th century, three battery positions were built on the island to defend against foreign ships, and in the following Meiji era (1868–1912), it was the site of Western-style fortifications built by Japan’s military.

The island preserves well-maintained Meiji-era brick shelters, ammunition storage facilities, and tunnels. As a Tokyo Bay fortress remnant, it is recognized as a Japanese Heritage Site. Today, the island attracts many visitors who enjoy its rich natural and historical environment through activities such as barbecuing, music events, and art exhibitions.

SENSE ISLAND/LAND has its roots as an event in 2019 on Sarushima, where a variety of artwork and performances were presented against the backdrop of the island’s gorgeous natural landscape and historical sites.

Before now, the event was called Sense Island, and its main focus was evoking primal sensations in visitors as they viewed art installations, allowing them to experience the stillness and darkness of the night.

For 2024, the event has expanded into Yokosuka proper. Artwork in this year’s event will shine a light on environmental and regional changes in recent years, as well as showcase Yokosuka’s centuries-old sites and traditional industries.

In 2024, the center of festivities is still Sarushima. Here, visitors will find art exhibitions, modern and traditional dancing, and music performances.

Getting to the Sarushima venue requires taking a ferry. In the event that strong winds or rough weather make travelling to Sarushima impossible, the Sarushima events will be canceled. Should this happen, ticket-holders will be informed by email of the cancellation by 3 PM the previous day.

*Viewing of art and performances at Sarushima requires tickets purchased in advance.
*The price of transportation by ferry to and from Sarushima is included in the price of the event tickets.
*Tickets are free for preschool-age and younger children, but still require advance reservations.

There will be plenty of events held at venues within the city of Yokosuka, including art exhibitions, live performances of music and dance, workshops, and video screenings.

Experience these 51 special days when Yokosuka is transformed through art. At the SENSE ISLAND/LAND event, discover a different side of Yokosuka that you've never seen before.