Goto Islands (Goto City, Nagasaki Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

The Goto Islands are a collective term for the large and small islands that spread across western Nagasaki Prefecture, with the central area being the Goto City area, including Fukue Island. The area is attractive for its diverse natural scenery, including rich ria coastlines, white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, cliffs, and oddly shaped rock formations. It has long flourished as a key location for fishing and maritime transportation, and since the Edo period, it has also been a place where the history of hidden Christians remains strong. The many churches and villages built since the Meiji period are unique, and Goto's greatest appeal is its ability to experience culture, faith, and nature all at the same time.

Highlights

• Churches and Hidden Christian Sites: Churches and settlement sites remain on each island. You can feel the history of the majestic Western-style architecture and the Catholic faith that took root in the region (please be mindful of visiting etiquette).
• Ocean and Beach: There are many spots with crystal clear waters, white sand beaches, and spots suitable for sea kayaking and snorkeling.
• Cliffs and Viewpoints: The views from the cliffs and capes jutting out into the sea are spectacular. There are many places where you can enjoy beautiful sunsets and sunrises.
• Mountain hiking and observation decks: There are spots where you can take a leisurely hike and see the whole island, allowing you to enjoy the scenery in a short amount of time.
• Seafood and local cuisine: You can enjoy dishes made with Goto udon noodles, fresh fish (especially horse mackerel, rockfish, and squid), and local seasonings (camellia oil and ingredients unique to the Goto Islands).
• Marine Activities: There are plenty of experiences that make use of the sea, such as diving, fishing, sea kayaking, and SUP.
• Island life and village walks: You can get a feel for everyday life on the island by strolling through the village, which retains the atmosphere of old stone walls, alleyways, and fishing ports.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• Railway: There are no railways on the Goto Islands themselves. The nearest major land bases are Fukuoka (Hakata Station) and Nagasaki Station. From these cities, you can travel to the islands by air or sea.
• planeThere are regular flights from Nagasaki City and Fukuoka City to Goto (Fukue) Airport. The flight time varies depending on the departure point, but it is generally around 30 to 70 minutes. The number of flights changes depending on the season and day of the week, so please check in advance.
• Ferry/High-Speed Boat: Regular ferries and high-speed boats operate from ports such as Nagasaki Port, Sasebo, and Fukuoka. The travel time varies depending on the departure and arrival point and the type of service (high-speed boat/ferry), with high-speed boats taking several hours and regular ferries taking even longer. Note that boats are prone to cancellations due to weather.
• Island Transportation: You can get around the island by local bus, rental car, rental bicycle, taxi, etc. However, some bus routes have limited service, so we recommend renting a car or checking bus schedules in advance.
• Points to note: Due to limited flight numbers and schedules, please allow plenty of time for accommodation and rental car reservations, as well as connecting flights on your return journey.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• If you want to visit the main spots in a short time: It is possible to do a day trip to Fukue Island just for sightseeing and meals, but it can get hectic when you include travel time.
• Recommended stay: It is recommended to plan for 2-3 days to visit the main islands such as Fukue Island, and 3-5 days if you plan to visit multiple islands (Nakadori Island, Naru Island, etc.).
• Relaxed stay: If you want to enjoy island life and sea activities, you can spend around a week to fully enjoy island hopping and the atmosphere of the remote islands.

Nearby spots

• Nagasaki City (Glover Garden, Peace Park, and Nagasaki Port area) — A hub for ferries and planes.
• Sasebo (Huis Ten Bosch) — A tourist destination accessible by car or ferry.
• It is also possible to combine this trip with sightseeing in the western Kyushu islands of Hirado, Iki, Tsushima, and the west coast and the Tsushima waters.
• Various spots in Saikai National Park — Coastal scenic spots and bases for nature observation.

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• Weather and flight status: During typhoon season (mainly summer to autumn) and bad weather, ferries and high-speed boats may be canceled, and flights may be delayed or canceled. Please plan your itinerary well in advance and be sure to check the latest operating information.
• Transportation and conveniencePublic transportation on the island is limited, so if you plan to use a rental car or taxi, it is recommended that you make a reservation in advance. Traveling at night is particularly inconvenient.
• Cash and payments: Some stores on remote islands do not accept credit cards or electronic payments. It is a good idea to bring some cash (Japanese yen) with you.
• Nature and marine safety：When playing on the rocks, diving, or kayaking, be aware of changes in the tides and weather. We recommend wearing a life jacket and using a local guide.
• Consideration for local culture and religion: When visiting churches and religious sites, please remain quiet and follow the rules regarding photography and entry.
• Garbage and collection etiquette: To help protect the natural environment, please take care to take your trash home with you and refrain from collecting shells or living creatures.
• congestion: Accommodations may fill up quickly during the tourist season on weekends and during the summer holidays. Make sure to book popular accommodations and activities early.

The Goto Islands are a place where nature and history coexist intimately. Before you go, be sure to check the latest weather and traffic information and enjoy island time at your own pace.