World Cultural Heritage Site, Gunkanjima: Guide of How to See it Without Getting on a Boat.

World Cultural Heritage Site, Gunkanjima: Guide of How to See it Without Getting on a Boat.

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Written by GOOD LUCK TRIP

Hashima Island (aka “Gunkanjima” or “Battleship Island”) sits 18 km off the shores of Nagasaki. Once used as a coal-mining site, the island is now an uninhabited, abandoned island since the mines closed in 1974. Its desolate appearance gives it a unique mystique that draw crowds from both in and outside of Japan. In 2009, the island was cleared for visitation and boat-based tours, but in this guide will share a few spots where you can check out the island without having to use a boat.

Nomozaki Meotoiwa “Couple Rocks”

Towering at a height of 11 meters above the coast sits 2 large rocks, nicknamed the “couple rocks” for their close and cozy appearance. You can actually catch a glimpse of “Battleship Island” as it sits in view between the two rocks, or from the observation deck nearby.

軍艦島、端島、廢墟
Hashima Island as seen between “Couple Rocks”
Address
Igayadomachi, Nagasaki City, Nagasaki
Official Website
Official Website (Japanese)

Takahama Beach

Takahama Beach is popular for its 800-meter stretch of white sands.
From the beach you can see Battleship Island in the distance, a view that’s especially popular at sunset.

Hashima Island floating on the glittering sea.
Hashima Island floating on the glittering sea.
Address
3963-3 Takahamamachi, Nagasaki City, Nagasaki
Official Website
Official Website (Japanese)

Nomozaki General Athletic Park (Daffodil Park)

This park is home to over 10 million daffodil flowers that come into bloom across the parks 3 small peaks from late December through mid-January. Here you’ll find a lookout point that offers views of the glittering ocean and Battleship Island together.

Daffodil flowers and Battleship Island
Daffodil flowers and Battleship Island
Address
568-1 Nomomachi, Nagasaki City, Nagasaki
Official Website
Official Website (Japanese)

Even without a boat, there are plenty of notable ways to enjoy the views of Battleship Island.
While it’s always ready for a picture, don’t forget to enjoy the island’s unforgettable beauty with your naked eye.