Nagasaki Prefecture, located in the Kyushu region, has more remote islands than any other prefecture in Japan. Each island has its own unique culture, making them all deeply fascinating and full of charm. Exploring Nagasaki’s remote islands is a wonderful way to experience a different side of Japan. The phrase “island journey” itself carries a sense of romance. This time, we’ve selected some of the best remote islands in Nagasaki for sightseeing. Let’s discover these breathtaking destinations!
table of contents
[x] close
Nagasaki Has the Most Islands in Japan! Which Remote Islands Are Best for Sightseeing?
1. Iōjima – An Island That’s a Resort Itself?
Iōjima is a remote island located about 30 minutes by car from Nagasaki City. Despite being an island, it is connected to the mainland by a bridge, allowing easy access by car. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Nagasaki Port, which takes around 20 minutes, making Iōjima a convenient and popular getaway. In recent years, it has gained attention as a resort destination.
The island offers a variety of marine sports and activities. The calm waters of Iōjima Beach Costa del Sol make it a safe spot for families with children. Additionally, the island features indoor barbecue facilities and a digital art night walk attraction, making it an exciting and easily accessible weekend getaway.
2. Gunkanjima – Nagasaki’s Most Famous Tourist Spot!
Gunkanjima (Battleship Island), officially known as Hashima, is perhaps the most famous of Nagasaki’s remote islands. Once a thriving undersea coal mining community, it housed around 5,300 residents at its peak. However, after the mines closed, the island was abandoned and became a ghost town. Today, its decaying structures create an eerie yet captivating atmosphere, showcasing the island’s rich industrial history.
Visitors must join an official Gunkanjima Landing Tour operated by one of five tour companies departing from Nagasaki Port. A prior reservation is required, as individual access to the island is prohibited. The cruise to Gunkanjima takes about 40 minutes, offering a glimpse of this extraordinary UNESCO World Heritage site.
3. Fukue Island – Scattered Churches and Beautiful Beaches
Located about 100 km west of Nagasaki Prefecture, Fukue Island is the largest island in the Goto Archipelago, which consists of over 140 islands. It is one of the key locations of the Hidden Christian Sites in the Nagasaki and Amakusa Region, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and is home to numerous beautiful churches. Fukue Island is also known for Takahama Beach, often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Japan. With its crystal-clear waters and stunning blue hues, the beach offers breathtaking scenery that will leave you mesmerized.
The island is accessible via a 30–40-minute flight from Nagasaki Airport or Fukuoka Airport, or by ferry from Nagasaki Port or Sasebo Port, which takes 1.5 to 2 hours.
4. Tsushima Island – The Midpoint Between Kyushu and Korea!
Often referred to as the "Border Island", Tsushima Island is located in the Tsushima Strait between Kyushu and South Korea. On clear days, you can even see Busan, South Korea, from the island’s shores.
Historically, Tsushima was a key hub for trade with Korea, and even today, remnants of its past can be found throughout the island. Approximately 89% of the island is mountainous, offering vast untouched forests. One of the top attractions is the Tsushima Wildlife Conservation Center, where visitors can observe the rare Tsushima Leopard Cat, a species unique to the island.
5. Iki Island – A Perfect Blend of History and Nature
Located about 1 hour by high-speed ferry from Hakata Port, Iki Island is rich in both history and nature. It features breathtaking beaches, unusual rock formations such as Saru-iwa (Monkey Rock), and sacred sites like Kojima Shrine, often referred to as "Japan’s Mont Saint-Michel". The island is also home to Tatsunoshima Island, known for its emerald-green waters.
Also, the Iki Country Museum, where visitors can learn about the island’s historical significance mentioned in ancient Chinese records. Iki Island offers various activities such as fishing experiences, beach yoga, and stargazing, making it an excellent destination for both relaxation and adventure.
6. Hirado Island – Accessible by Car and a World Heritage Site!
Located in the northwestern part of Nagasaki Prefecture, Hirado Island is connected to the mainland by the Hirado Bridge, making it one of the most accessible remote islands by car. It is a popular sightseeing destination, approximately two hours by car from Nagasaki City and one hour from Sasebo City. Hirado Island has gained recognition as a World Cultural Heritage site, boasting vibrant churches and an exotic townscape influenced by its history as a former Dutch trading post. The remnants of its trading past can still be felt throughout the island.
One of the must-visit spots is Hitotsuku Beach, frequently featured in travel magazines for its stunning turquoise waters and breathtaking scenery—a perfect place to relax and take in the beauty of nature. For those with a sweet tooth, be sure to try Hirado’s specialty dessert, Kasudōsu. This deep-fried Castella cake coated in a thick sugar syrup and granulated sugar is a deliciously rich treat that has been enjoyed for generations.
7. Uku Island – A Paradise for Nature Lovers!
Situated at the northernmost tip of the Goto Archipelago, Uku Island was formed by volcanic eruptions around 1.9 million years ago. The island is home to giant banyan trees, lush forests, and open pasturelands, creating a landscape that feels almost otherworldly.
Uku Island’s beaches offer spectacular sunsets over the East China Sea and some of Japan’s most breathtaking starry skies. It is an ideal destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
To reach Uku Island, visitors must travel by ferry, with services operating from Hakata Port and Sasebo Port. Travel times vary depending on whether you take a ferry or high-speed boat, as well as the departure time. For getting around the island, a car is the most convenient option, but if you’re only exploring nearby areas, renting a bicycle is also a great choice. Many tourists enjoy cycling through the island’s lush natural landscapes, experiencing the refreshing breeze and scenic beauty along the way.
8. Kujukushima – Japan’s Densest Island Cluster, Best Seen by Cruise
Kujukushima is an archipelago stretching along the western coast of the North Matsuura Peninsula, encompassing Sasebo and Hirado. Despite its name meaning "99 Islands," the actual number of islands is 208. The name Kujukushima was given to represent "a large number" rather than an exact count. The area gained international recognition for its stunning seascape, which appeared in the opening scene of the Hollywood movie The Last Samurai. It is also known for having the highest island density in Japan. One of the best ways to experience Kujukushima is by taking a sightseeing cruise from Kujukushima Pearl Sea Resort. The boat tours offer a spectacular view of the islands from the sea, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the breathtaking landscape.
A must-visit attraction in the area is Kujukushima Aquarium Umi-Kirara. This unique aquarium features exhibits showcasing the diverse marine life of Kujukushima, a massive indoor water tank, the Jellyfish Symphony Dome, and a relaxing dolphin show—all offering experiences you won’t find anywhere else. Since the cruise terminal is located nearby, be sure to stop by both attractions when exploring Kujukushima!
◎ Summary: Explore Nagasaki’s Remote Islands!
Nagasaki’s remote islands offer stunning beaches, rich history, unique cultural heritage, and breathtaking natural landscapes. Various travel agencies and ferry operators provide guided island tours and accommodation packages, making it easy to plan your trip. Recently, more people have been relocating to these islands in search of a slower, nature-filled lifestyle. A visit to Nagasaki’s islands might just be the perfect escape to refresh your mind and soul!
