NYK is stepping up efforts to safeguard the Hikawa Maru, a 95-year-old passenger-cargo ship and national Important Cultural Property moored in Yokohama. On January 8, 2026, the company will launch an expert committee dedicated to the ship’s long-term preservation, marking a pivotal moment in the ship’s storied history.
The Hikawa Maru, built in 1930, was a state-of-the-art vessel for its time. During World War II, it served as a navy hospital ship, striking mines on three separate occasions but miraculously avoiding sinking. Post-war, it was refitted and resumed service on the Japan–Seattle line, carrying over 25,000 passengers across 254 voyages before retiring in 1961. Since then, it has been preserved as a symbol of Yokohama’s maritime heritage and was designated a National Important Cultural Property in 2016.
NYK’s commitment to preserving the Hikawa Maru is not just about maintaining a historic vessel—it’s about ensuring its legacy endures for future generations. Since 2024, NYK has been conducting detailed surveys on the ship’s hull to assess its safety and structural integrity, laying the groundwork for large-scale repairs. This initiative aims to enhance public engagement with the ship’s rich history while ensuring its structural soundness.
“Based on our findings, NYK will convene an expert committee specializing in ship preservation and architecture,” said a spokesperson for NYK. “This committee will establish technical and conservation policies for repairs, determine best practices for upkeep, and create exhibition strategies to help revitalize the Yokohama waterfront area.”
The expert committee will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the Hikawa Maru. By developing technical and conservation policies, the committee will ensure that the ship undergoes repairs and maintenance that respect its historical significance. Additionally, the committee will explore ways to enhance public engagement, potentially through exhibitions and educational programs that highlight the ship’s role in Japan’s maritime history.
The Hikawa Maru’s preservation is more than a technical challenge—it’s a cultural imperative. As the only extant passenger-cargo ship from pre-war Japan, the Hikawa Maru offers a tangible link to the past, providing insights into the maritime technology and design of the early 20th century. Its service as a hospital ship during World War II adds a layer of historical significance, reflecting the ship’s role in humanitarian efforts during a turbulent period.
The long-term preservation project also aims to revitalize the Yokohama waterfront area. By enhancing the ship’s accessibility and educational value, NYK hopes to attract visitors and foster a deeper appreciation for maritime heritage. The Hikawa Maru’s presence in front of Yamashita Park has long been a point of pride for Yokohama, and these efforts will ensure that it continues to be a focal point for the community and tourists alike.
As NYK moves forward with this initiative, the Hikawa Maru stands as a testament to the enduring value of preserving our maritime heritage. The ship’s journey from a state-of-the-art passenger-cargo vessel to a symbol of resilience and cultural significance underscores the importance of safeguarding such historical treasures. Through the expert committee’s efforts, the Hikawa Maru will continue to inspire and educate, ensuring that its legacy endures for generations to come.