There are many islands in Kyushu that lie just a short trip away from Fukuoka by direct ferry or plane. Here are five islands abundant with nature, that show a side of Japan replete with adventure, culture and history.
1. Yakushima
Yakushima has an outstanding array of activities. Hiking through the forests is a must and hiking gear and English-speaking guides can be booked through hotels or the island’s sightseeing association. Rich in nature, rich in experiences.
Paddleboard in Yakushima’s pristine waters
2. Tsushima
Just 49.5 km from Korea, Tsushima was the first point of call for Japan-Korea relations for over a millennia. Experience nature at its best, with sea kayaking and hiking on offer, and enjoy an overnight stay at a temple on the island.
Sea kayak in Tsushima
3. Iki
Iki is famous for its food, which includes delicious Iki beef, barley shochu and seafood. When not eating, spend the day trekking in and amongst the island’s 1,000 shrines, temples and ancient ruins, or enjoy visiting one of Iki’s many wonderful museums.
Explore Kojima Jinja Shrine at low tide
4. Shimogoto
Shimogoto is known for its beautiful seas and its world heritage collection of historic Christian churches and ruins. Take a leaf out of the islanders’ book and appreciate the slow life while making accessories from seashells and glass picked from the seashore.
Wander the impossibly beautiful Takahama beach
5. Kamigoto
Twinned with Shimogoto, Kamigoto is similarly a world heritage candidate for its Christian churches and ruins. Exceptionally tranquil, it’s a beautiful place to relax. Take the midnight ferry from Hakata Port to wake up in Kamigoto.
Watch the sunset in Yagatame Park
Useful websites:
• Tsushima Tourist Association: http://www.tsushima-net.org/
• Iki Sightseeing Association: http://www.ikikankou.com/
• Shinkamigoto Sightseeing Association: http://shinkamigoto.nagasaki-tabinet.com/
• Goto City Tourism Association: http://www.gotokanko.jp/
• Yakushima Tourism Association: http://yakukan.jp/
Reto-channel
The official media partner of Yakushima, Iki, Tsushima, Kamigoto and Shimogoto. Bringing you the latest information from all the islands!: http://retochan.com
Originally published in Fukuoka Now Magazine (fn218, Feb. 2017)
