Gunkanjima: The Abandoned Island of Battleships

Explore Gunkanjima, the haunting Battleship Island, where history and nature intertwine in a captivating ghost town off Nagasaki's coast.

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Gunkanjima

Gunkanjima, also known as Hashima Island, is a hauntingly beautiful site located off the coast of Nagasaki, Japan. Once a thriving coal mining community, it is now an eerie ghost town that captivates visitors with its rich history and stunning seascapes. The island’s unique silhouette, resembling a battleship, is a sight to behold, making it a must-visit for tourists seeking adventure and exploration.

A brief summary to Gunkanjima

Takashimamachi, Takashimamachi, JP

Local tips

Book your tour in advance, as spots can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Dress comfortably and wear sturdy shoes, as the terrain can be uneven and rocky.
Bring a camera to capture the stunning views and unique architecture of the abandoned buildings.
Check the weather forecast before your visit, as tours may be canceled due to rough seas.
Consider visiting during weekdays for a less crowded experience.

Getting There

Car

If you are driving from Shima, take Route 260 towards Nagasaki. Follow the signs for Nagasaki City until you reach the area of Nagasaki where you can find the ferry terminal. The ferry terminal for Gunkanjima is located at Nagasaki Port, so make sure to look for signs directing you to the port. The drive will take approximately 2 hours. Once at the Nagasaki Port, find the ticket counter for Gunkanjima tours. A round-trip ferry ticket costs around 3,000 yen per person.
Public Transportation

To reach Gunkanjima using public transportation, start by taking a local bus or taxi from your location in Shima to the nearest train station. You will likely need to take the train to Nagasaki Station. From there, walk to Nagasaki Port, which is about a 15-minute walk. At the port, look for the ticket counter for Gunkanjima tours. A round-trip ferry ticket costs approximately 3,000 yen per person. Be sure to check the ferry schedule in advance to plan your trip accordingly.

Discover more about Gunkanjima

Gunkanjima, often referred to as Hashima Island, is a remarkable testament to Japan's industrial past, lying just off the coast of Nagasaki. This once-bustling coal mining island thrived from the late 19th century until the 1970s, housing thousands of workers in its densely packed apartment buildings. Today, it stands as a ghostly reminder of a bygone era, its crumbling structures and overgrown landscapes creating an atmosphere of haunting beauty. Visitors are drawn to Gunkanjima not just for its captivating history, but also for its striking views of the surrounding sea. The island's unique silhouette, resembling a battleship, is iconic and has earned it the nickname 'Gunkanjima,' meaning 'Battleship Island' in Japanese. Guided tours provide an opportunity to explore the remnants of this once-thriving community, including the remains of the coal mines, residential blocks, and the eerie schoolhouse. While Gunkanjima is a UNESCO World Heritage site, access is only available through organized tours, making it essential for tourists to plan their visit in advance. The tours typically depart from Nagasaki and offer insightful commentary on the island's history, ensuring that visitors leave with a deeper understanding of this remarkable place. The contrast of the island's rugged ruins against the shimmering waters of the East China Sea creates a breathtaking backdrop that is perfect for photography enthusiasts. For those seeking adventure and a glimpse into Japan's industrial heritage, Gunkanjima is an unforgettable destination that offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Gunkanjima

0.0 km

Explore Gunkanjima, the haunting Battleship Island, where history and nature intertwine in a captivating ghost town off Nagasaki's coast.

Hilton Nagasaki

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Atomic Bomb Hypocenter Monument

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Huis Ten Bosch

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Senzaki Ancient Tombs (Kyushu Olle Iwajima Course starting point)

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Senzaki Ancient Tombs (Kyushu Olle Iwajima Course starting point)

Teiseiko Memorial Park

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Iwamoto Bridge

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Jagatani Park

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Hirado Castle

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Hirado Dutch Trading Post

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Matsūra Historical Museum

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Tachibana Museum Yanagawa

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Machiboke Monument

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Takatanoseyama Koen Camping Ground

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Unmissable attractions to see

Hashima Island

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Third observation plaza

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Nagasaki Nomozaki Dinosaur Park

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Meotoiwa

4.9 km

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Kaba Island Lighthouse

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Megami Bridge

14.8 km

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Mt. Nabekanmuri Park

16.7 km

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Nagasaki Traditional Performing Arts Center

17.0 km

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Nagasaki Traditional Performing Arts Center

Puccini statue

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Glover Garden

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Ōura Cathedral

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Oura Cathedral Priest House

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Nagasaki Peace Museum

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Oura Catholic Church

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Discover the historical and architectural beauty of Oura Catholic Church in Nagasaki, Japan's oldest wooden church and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Gunkanjima Digital Museum

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Discover the haunting history of Hashima Island at Gunkanjima Digital Museum, where Japan's industrial past comes alive through innovative exhibits.

Essential places to dine

Shikairou Chinese Restaurant

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Nagasaki Dejima Wharf

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Veggie Cafe Bar Nobister

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Mugal Mahal

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Japanese YoHira

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Experience the essence of Japan at Japanese YoHira - Authentic kaiseki and teppanyaki dining in Nagasaki.

Kagetsu

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Experience the elegance of traditional Japanese dining at Kagetsu, where exquisite flavors meet cultural heritage in the heart of Nagasaki.

Ramen Hiiragi

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Discover authentic Japanese ramen at Ramen Hiiragi in Nagasaki - a must-visit destination for food lovers seeking rich flavors.

Mos Burger Nagasaki Hamanomachi

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Discover the delightful fusion of Japanese flavors and classic hamburgers at Mos Burger Nagasaki Hamanomachi, where every bite tells a story.

Joyfull Nagasaki Tsukimachi

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Yubatotofunomiseumenohana Merukanagasakiten

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Yossou

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Discover the essence of Japanese cuisine at Yossou in Nagasaki—where tradition meets innovation in every exquisite dish.

Osakaya Hamanomachi

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Experience top-tier Yakiniku at Osakaya Hamanomachi in Nagasaki—where quality meets tradition in every grilled bite.

Menya Always

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Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Menya Always - home to unique lemon ramen and delightful noodle dishes in Nagasaki.

Nagasaki Shippoku Hamakatsu

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Discover the flavors of Nagasaki at Shippoku Hamakatsu – where traditional Japanese cuisine meets regional specialties.

Starbucks Coffee - Amu Plaza Nagasaki Honkan 1F shop

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Starbucks Coffee - Amu Plaza Nagasaki Honkan 1F shop

Explore the enchanting world of stationery and gifts at Ishimaru Bunkoudou Flagship Store in Nagasaki, where creativity meets culture.

Experience the elegance of Seven Seas Lounge & Bar in Nagasaki, where exquisite dining meets a serene atmosphere for a perfect escape.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Gunkanjima: The Abandoned Island of Battleships

A brief summary to Gunkanjima

Local tips

Getting There

Car

Public Transportation

Unlock the Best of Gunkanjima

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Gunkanjima

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Gunkanjima

Hilton Nagasaki

Atomic Bomb Hypocenter Monument

Huis Ten Bosch

Senzaki Ancient Tombs (Kyushu Olle Iwajima Course starting point)

Teiseiko Memorial Park

Iwamoto Bridge

Jagatani Park

Hirado Castle

Hirado Dutch Trading Post

Matsūra Historical Museum

Tachibana Museum Yanagawa

YANAGAWA TACHIBANA-TEI OHANA

Machiboke Monument

Takatanoseyama Koen Camping Ground

Unmissable attractions to see

Hashima Island

Third observation plaza

Nagasaki Nomozaki Dinosaur Park

Meotoiwa

Kaba Island Lighthouse

Megami Bridge

Mt. Nabekanmuri Park

Nagasaki Traditional Performing Arts Center

Puccini statue

Glover Garden

Ōura Cathedral

Oura Cathedral Priest House

Nagasaki Peace Museum

Oura Catholic Church

Gunkanjima Digital Museum

Essential places to dine

Shikairou Chinese Restaurant

Nagasaki Dejima Wharf

Veggie Cafe Bar Nobister

Mugal Mahal

Japanese YoHira

Kagetsu

Ramen Hiiragi

Mos Burger Nagasaki Hamanomachi

Joyfull Nagasaki Tsukimachi

Yubatotofunomiseumenohana Merukanagasakiten

Yossou

Osakaya Hamanomachi

Menya Always

Nagasaki Shippoku Hamakatsu

Starbucks Coffee - Amu Plaza Nagasaki Honkan 1F shop

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Joycraft

Aeon Nagasaki shop

Renka

長崎ロフト

Sanrio Gift Gate

Youme Town Yumesaito

Tatematsuru

Hamamachi Shopping Arcade

Animate Nagasaki

Hama Cross 411

雑貨屋Seikochan

Hamaya

YOPE NAGASAKI

Don Quijote Hamanomachi

Ishimaru Bunkoudou Flagship store

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

LOCAL

バンテアン Cafe & Bar Vingt et Un

Mosh Bar (Public Party)

bar nakayama