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Tsushima
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Discover Tsushima’s forested mountains, Korean-linked history, sheltered bays, wildlife and seafood on a slow island journey from Japan’s western frontier.

Tsushima is a long, mountainous island in Nagasaki Prefecture, positioned in the Tsushima Strait between Kyushu and the Korean Peninsula. Its geography has always shaped its identity: narrow sea channels, deeply indented bays and steep evergreen hills create a landscape that feels more maritime than urban. Although the island is administered as Tsushima City, settlements are widely dispersed, and journeys between them follow winding coastal roads rather than a single central corridor.
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The island’s principal administrative and historical centre is Izuhara in the south, where Banshoin temple, the former Sō clan seat and remnants of castle-town life reflect Tsushima’s role as Japan’s diplomatic gateway to Korea. Farther north, Aso Bay is a complex patchwork of wooded islands and sheltered inlets, while the rugged coastline around Kamitsushima and Kamiagata offers quieter scenery, fishing communities and viewpoints across open water. Tsushima is best approached as a place for slow exploration rather than a compact sightseeing circuit.
Nature is central to the island’s appeal. Mount Shiratake, with its distinctive twin granite peaks and old-growth woodland, is among Tsushima’s finest walking destinations. The Tsushima Wildlife Conservation Center near Izuhara introduces visitors to the endangered Tsushima leopard cat, a subspecies found in the wild only on Tsushima. Sightings are rare, but the animal’s presence expresses the island’s ecological distinctiveness, formed by its isolation from both mainland Japan and the Korean Peninsula.
Tsushima’s history is equally outward-looking. Archaeological remains and ancient records show long contact with the Korean kingdoms and the Asian mainland. Medieval conflicts, the Mongol invasions and the maritime power of the Sō family left military and religious traces across the island, while later diplomatic missions travelled through Tsushima between Japan and Joseon Korea. The island’s position also gives the surrounding strait strategic importance, most famously during the 1905 Battle of Tsushima, fought in nearby waters.
Visitors come for coastal drives, hiking, sea kayaking, fishing heritage, temples and the atmosphere of a frontier island where Japanese traditions have developed alongside centuries of international exchange. Local cuisine centres on fresh seafood and distinctive dishes such as ishiyaki, in which seafood and vegetables are cooked on heated stones, and rokube, noodles made from sweet potato starch. A few days allow a more rewarding understanding of Tsushima than a hurried stop between ferry connections.

When is the best time to visit Tsushima?

Best: May, October–November · 17–24°C
Average daytime high and rainfall by month
MonthHigh (°C)Rainfall (mm)
January10100
February11110
March14150
April19180
May (best)23200
June27250
July32300
August32280
September29240
October (best)24190
November (best)17150
December12130

Getting to and around Tsushima

How to get there

Tsushima Airport, near Izuhara in the south, has domestic connections with Nagasaki and Fukuoka, though routes and schedules can change. Passenger ferries and high-speed services connect the island with Hakata in Fukuoka, while services also operate to other northern Kyushu ports depending on the season and timetable. Izuhara and Hitakatsu are the principal ferry gateways. Fukuoka is the most useful international access point for many visitors; it lies outside Tsushima and requires a further flight or sea journey.

Transportation

A hire car is generally the most practical way to reach dispersed viewpoints, temples, trailheads and coastal settlements. Roads are often narrow and winding, so journeys take longer than distances on a map suggest. Local buses connect the main communities but are less convenient for an itinerary built around several rural sights, and services should be checked in advance. Taxis are available in populated areas but may be limited elsewhere. Walking and cycling work well for individual areas rather than for crossing the whole island.

Best attractions in Tsushima

Tsushima’s attractions are dispersed across a mountainous island, making the journey between them part of the experience. Izuhara provides the strongest concentration of history, with Banshoin temple, Sō-family memorial sites and the remains of the former castle-town landscape. In the south and centre, Aso Bay’s intricate coastline rewards scenic drives, sea kayaking and boat-based exploration when conditions permit. Mount Shiratake offers a demanding but rewarding forest hike to a granite summit with broad views over the island’s wooded ridges and inlets. The Tsushima Wildlife Conservation Center introduces the ecology and conservation of the Tsushima leopard cat, while smaller shrines, fishing villages and coastal viewpoints reveal everyday island life. Northern Tsushima brings more open seascapes, historic traces associated with Japan–Korea relations and access to quieter beaches and headlands. Visitors interested in military history can explore the remains of Kaneda Castle, a seventh-century fortress built during a period of heightened concern over the Korean Peninsula. The island is not dominated by large entertainment complexes; its appeal lies in combining natural habitats, archaeological remains, religious sites, maritime landscapes and slow travel through settlements linked by the sea.

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Best landmarks in Tsushima

Banshoin in Izuhara is Tsushima’s most important historic landmark, a temple and mausoleum associated with the Sō clan whose stone steps, gates and memorial structures convey the island’s feudal and diplomatic past. The ruins of Kaneda Castle, on the southern part of the island, mark the site of a major seventh-century fortification built amid tensions involving the Korean Peninsula; its elevated setting also gives the remains geographical significance. Mount Shiratake is Tsushima’s defining natural landmark, recognised by its twin granite peaks, ancient woodland and views across forest and sea. The sheltered channels and islands of Aso Bay form another essential geographical feature, demonstrating how deeply the island’s settlements depend on protected water. In the north, the Korean-observation points and coastal heights associated with Tsushima’s historic role look towards the strait and maritime routes beyond. The surrounding waters themselves are linked to the 1905 Battle of Tsushima, although the decisive naval engagement took place offshore rather than at a single land monument. Together these places express Tsushima’s identity as both a rugged natural island and a historic threshold between Japan and continental East Asia.

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Best restaurants in Tsushima

Tsushima’s food culture reflects its surrounding waters, limited farmland and long maritime connections. Fresh fish, squid, shellfish and other seafood feature prominently, often prepared simply to preserve their flavour. Ishiyaki is the island’s best-known speciality: seafood and vegetables are cooked using heated stones, a preparation associated with Tsushima’s coastal communities. Rokube, noodles made from sweet potato starch, offers another distinctly local taste and has traditionally suited the island’s agricultural conditions. Restaurants in Izuhara and other larger settlements provide the broadest choice, while smaller coastal eateries may focus on seasonal catches and home-style cooking. Local cafés, Japanese set-meal restaurants and informal seafood establishments are more common than a large fine-dining scene. Visitors should expect menus to vary with weather and supply, and should not assume that every establishment accepts cards. For a deeper understanding of island produce, look for locally sold seafood, sweet potatoes, sauces and preserved foods at supermarkets or small food shops.

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Best bars in Tsushima

Tsushima has a modest evening scene shaped by its dispersed population rather than by a concentrated nightlife district. Izuhara offers the greatest choice of izakaya, small bars and restaurants, where evenings may centre on local seafood, conversation and Japanese drinks. Elsewhere, nightlife is usually found in informal dining rooms, traditional establishments and accommodation-based restaurants rather than dedicated nightclubs. Some businesses serve local or regional beer, sake and shōchū, but availability and opening patterns can be limited outside the main settlements. The island’s coastal communities become quiet after dinner, and rural accommodation may have little evening entertainment beyond the surrounding landscape. Visitors should arrange transport in advance, as late public transport is limited and drink-driving is illegal in Japan. The most characteristic night-time experiences are often seasonal and natural, such as listening to the sea from a harbour or viewing a dark sky away from settled areas, rather than attending large organised events.

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Best nightclubs in Tsushima

Tsushima has a modest evening scene shaped by its dispersed population rather than by a concentrated nightlife district. Izuhara offers the greatest choice of izakaya, small bars and restaurants, where evenings may centre on local seafood, conversation and Japanese drinks. Elsewhere, nightlife is usually found in informal dining rooms, traditional establishments and accommodation-based restaurants rather than dedicated nightclubs. Some businesses serve local or regional beer, sake and shōchū, but availability and opening patterns can be limited outside the main settlements. The island’s coastal communities become quiet after dinner, and rural accommodation may have little evening entertainment beyond the surrounding landscape. Visitors should arrange transport in advance, as late public transport is limited and drink-driving is illegal in Japan. The most characteristic night-time experiences are often seasonal and natural, such as listening to the sea from a harbour or viewing a dark sky away from settled areas, rather than attending large organised events.

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Best shops in Tsushima

Shopping in Tsushima is practical and local in character, with the broadest selection in Izuhara and other larger settlements rather than in a single major retail district. Small shops and supermarkets are useful for provisions, while local food counters may sell seafood, sweet potatoes, sauces, preserved products and other island specialities. Visitors seeking edible souvenirs should look for products connected with Tsushima’s maritime and agricultural traditions, including ingredients used in ishiyaki and rokube. Craft and gift selections are generally modest, though regional shops may carry ceramics, textiles, wood products or items associated with local temples and wildlife conservation. Markets and roadside outlets can be valuable places to find seasonal produce, but their stock and operating patterns vary. Tsushima is not a destination for extensive designer or luxury shopping; its strongest retail appeal lies in food, practical goods and small-scale products that reflect island life. Carry enough cash for independent shops and rural sellers, as payment facilities are less consistent away from the main administrative centres.

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Tsushima essentials

Currency and Payment
Tsushima uses Japan’s national currency, the Japanese yen (JPY). Cards and contactless payments are increasingly accepted at hotels, larger shops and transport facilities, but smaller restaurants, rural businesses and some accommodation providers may prefer cash. Carry yen for buses, local food outlets and unexpected transport needs, particularly when travelling away from Izuhara and other larger settlements. Foreign currency exchange options are limited compared with major Japanese cities, so obtaining cash before travelling or at a principal gateway is sensible.
Safety
Tsushima is generally suitable for independent travel, but its terrain and remoteness require preparation. Drive cautiously on narrow coastal roads, especially after dark or in poor weather, and allow time for fuel and rest stops. Hiking trails can be steep, rocky and slippery, while summer heat, insects and sudden weather changes may affect conditions. Take care near rocky shorelines and tidal water, and follow local advice during storms, earthquakes or tsunami warnings. Mobile coverage can be variable in mountainous and remote areas.
Emergency Situations
The national Japanese emergency numbers apply on Tsushima: call 110 for police and 119 for fire or ambulance services. Give the location in a clear landmark-based description, as rural addresses can be difficult to communicate; hotel staff, ferry terminals and local authorities can assist with translation when available. For serious incidents at sea, contact the Japan Coast Guard through 118. Hikers should carry a charged phone, share their route and avoid relying solely on connectivity in the island’s mountainous interior.
Do's and Don'ts
Observe ordinary Japanese courtesy by queuing, keeping voices low on public transport and removing shoes where requested. At temples and shrines, behave respectfully and follow posted photography rules. Do not enter private land, disturb fishing equipment or approach wildlife, including the Tsushima leopard cat. If driving, never stop on narrow roads or block village access. Dispose of rubbish carefully, as remote communities have limited facilities, and ask before photographing residents, homes, boats or religious ceremonies.
Local Tips
Use Izuhara as a practical base for southern heritage sites, but consider staying farther north if exploring Aso Bay and the island’s upper reaches. Check ferry conditions before committing to tight onward connections, since rough seas can affect island services. Start mountain walks early in warm months and carry water. Local seafood menus may be partly dependent on the day’s catch, while restaurants outside the main settlements can have limited service periods. A small amount of Japanese language preparation is useful in rural areas.
Eve, your Evendo local guide

From Eve

Local phrases worth knowing

You don't need to get them perfect. A few words go a long way, and locals appreciate the effort.

6 phrase groups · English, local and pronunciation

Basics
EnglishLocalSay it
Helloこんにちは[Konnichiwa]
Goodbyeさようなら[Sayōnara]
Yesはい[Hai]
Noいいえ[Iie]
Please/You're welcomeどうぞ[Dōzo]
Thank youありがとう[Arigatou]
Excuse me/Sorryすみません[Sumimasen]
How are you?お元気ですか？[Ogenki desu ka?]
Fine. And you?元気です。あなたは？[Genki desu. Anata wa?]
Do you speak English?英語が話せますか？[Eigo ga hanasemasu ka?]
I don't understandわかりません[Wakarimasen]
Eating & Drinking
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to see the menu, pleaseメニューを見せてください[Menyū o misete kudasai]
I don't eat meat肉は食べません[Niku wa tabemasen]
Cheers!乾杯！[Kanpai!]
I would like to pay, please支払いをお願いします[Shiharai o onegaishimasu]
Emergencies
EnglishLocalSay it
Help!助けて！[Tasukete!]
Go away!どいて！[Doite!]
Call the Police!警察を呼んで！[Keisatsu o yonde!]
Call a doctor!医者を呼んで！[Isha o yonde!]
I'm lost道に迷いました[Michi ni mayoimashita]
I'm ill具合が悪いです[Guai ga warui desu]
Shopping
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to buy...…を買いたいです[… o kaitai desu]
I'm just looking見ているだけです[Mite iru dake desu]
How much is it?これはいくらですか？[Kore wa ikura desu ka?]
That's too expensiveそれは高すぎます[Sore wa takasugimasu]
Can you lower the price?値下げできますか？[Nesage dekimasu ka?]
Time & Numbers
EnglishLocalSay it
What time is it?今何時ですか？[Ima nanji desu ka?]
It's one o'clock1時です[Ichi ji desu]
Half past (10)10時半です[Jū ji han desu]
Morning朝[Asa]
Afternoon午後[Gogo]
Evening夕方[Yūgata]
Yesterday昨日[Kinō]
Today今日[Kyō]
Tomorrow明日[Ashita]
11[Ichi]
22[Ni]
33[San]
44[Shi]
55[Go]
66[Roku]
77[Nana]
88[Hachi]
99[Kyū]
1010[Jū]
Transport & Directions
EnglishLocalSay it
Where's a/the...?…はどこですか？[… wa doko desu ka?]
What's the address?住所は何ですか？[Jūsho wa nan desu ka?]
Can you show me (on the map)?地図で見せてくれますか？[Chizu de misete kuremasu ka?]
When's the next (bus)?次の（バス）はいつですか？[Tsugi no (basu) wa itsu desu ka?]
A ticket (to ....)…までの切符[… made no kippu]

History of Tsushima

Ancient Crossroads with the Korean Peninsula

Tsushima’s location between northern Kyushu and the Korean Peninsula made it an important maritime contact zone from antiquity. Archaeological evidence and historical records point to exchange involving people, goods, technologies and political messages across the Korea Strait. The island was not simply an isolated Japanese outpost: its communities understood the sea routes linking Japan with the wider East Asian world. This intermediary role later became the foundation of Tsushima’s formal diplomatic responsibilities and its distinctive cultural history.

The Mongol Invasions, 1274 and 1281

Tsushima was among the first Japanese territories attacked during the Mongol-led invasions of Japan. In 1274, forces landed on the island before continuing towards Kyushu, and the island suffered severe disruption. A second invasion attempt in 1281 again passed through the surrounding waters. The campaigns demonstrated Tsushima’s exposed strategic position and remain part of local historical memory through memorial sites, religious associations and accounts of the Sō family’s later role in defending and governing the island.

The Rise of the Sō Clan

From the medieval period, the Sō family became Tsushima’s dominant feudal rulers. Based at Izuhara, the clan governed a difficult island territory while developing maritime connections and managing relations with Korea. Its power rested not only on military authority but also on diplomacy, trade and control of sea routes. The Sō domain’s legacy is visible in Izuhara’s temples, historic compounds and religious monuments, including Banshoin, the family’s burial temple and one of Tsushima’s most important cultural sites.

Diplomacy with Joseon Korea

After Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s invasions of Korea in the 1590s, Tsushima played a central role in repairing relations between Japan and the Joseon court. From the early seventeenth century, Korean diplomatic missions travelled through Tsushima on their way to the shogun’s capital. The Sō acted as intermediaries, interpreters and negotiators, while the island hosted or supported exchanges of documents, gifts and information. This diplomatic history explains why Tsushima’s heritage differs from that of many other Japanese rural islands.

Early Modern Maritime Economy

Under the Tokugawa shogunate, Tsushima’s economy depended on fishing, farming suited to limited arable land, shipping and its intermediary position in Japan–Korea relations. Villages developed around sheltered bays, while forest resources and coastal waters supported everyday life. The island’s rugged terrain restricted large-scale agriculture, encouraging communities to combine several livelihoods. Many present-day settlements, shrines and harbour landscapes retain the basic geographical pattern established during this early modern period.

Strategic Waters and the Battle of Tsushima, 1905

The surrounding strait became internationally significant during the Russo-Japanese War. In May 1905, the Japanese fleet defeated Russia’s Baltic Fleet in the Battle of Tsushima, fought in waters around the island and the wider strait. The battle was a decisive event in modern naval history and strengthened Japan’s position as a major power. It also reinforced Tsushima’s strategic importance, although the main engagement was a maritime battle rather than a conflict centred in the island’s towns.

Modern Tsushima and Conservation

In the modern era, Tsushima has faced the pressures common to many remote Japanese islands, including population decline, an ageing society and dependence on sea and air links. At the same time, its forests and wildlife have gained greater recognition. Conservation work focuses particularly on the Tsushima leopard cat, whose survival is threatened by habitat change, disease and interactions with domestic animals. Contemporary Tsushima therefore combines historic cross-border identity with efforts to protect a highly distinctive island environment.

Tsushima in Photos

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Evendo: Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Tsushima

Discover Tsushima with Evendo - The 100% Free App-Based Travel Guide Covering Attractions, Landmarks, Restaurants, Hotels, Tours, and More!

  • Detailed information on attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, and experiences
  • Rich set of information including images, descriptions, local tips, maps, and contact details
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More about the Evendo app

Explore the stunning island of Tsushima with Evendo, your comprehensive, free travel guide app. Discover hidden gems, plan your itinerary, and make the most of your visit effortlessly.

  • History of Tsushima and travel essentials
  • Curated local tips to experience the city like a local
  • Easy navigation through the app and the destination
  • 'Near me' feature to see nearby attractions and services
  • 100% free to use with no in-app purchases

Welcome to Tsushima, a serene island brimming with history, culture, and natural beauty! With Evendo, your trip to Tsushima becomes an unforgettable adventure. Whether you're here to explore the historical landmarks like the Watatsumi Shrine or bask in the natural beauty of Aso Bay, our app has got you covered. Dive into the rich tapestry of Tsushima’s past at the Tsushima Folk History Museum, or take a tranquil stroll through the scenic Tsushima Wildlife Conservation Center.

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From exploring the island's history to finding the best bars and nightclubs, Evendo ensures you won’t miss a thing. Download Evendo today and start your journey through Tsushima!

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