TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Ganryujima is a small uninhabited island in Shimonoseki, Yamaguchi Prefecture, known as a tourist destination floating in the Kanmon Strait. It is most famous as the site of a duel between the master swordsman Miyamoto Musashi and the master swordsman Sasaki Kojiro in 1612 (Keicho 17), making it a sacred place for history and martial arts fans. The island itself is flat and is equipped with walking paths, monuments, stone monuments, and statues of master swordsmen. It also offers close-up views of the Kanmon Strait, Kanmon Bridge, and the surrounding port town, making it a great place to visit for the scenery.
Highlights
- Monument and memorial to the duel between Miyamoto Musashi and Sasaki Kojiro: You can learn about historical facts and legends at the stone monument and information boards that stand at the site where the duel is said to have taken place.
- Swordsman statues and monuments: There are statues and explanatory panels based on swordsmen on the island, making them popular photo spots.
- View of the Kanmon Strait: You can see the Kanmon Bridge, ships passing by, and the port of Mojiko in Kyushu on the opposite shore, and the view is especially beautiful in the mornings and evenings.
- Fishing and beach walks: The surrounding area is also used as a fishing spot, and you can take a leisurely stroll while listening to the sound of the waves (please follow the fishing rules).
- Starting point for touring historical sites: It is common to combine a visit to the island with a tour of historical sites and gourmet spots in Shimonoseki city, such as Dannoura, Akama Shrine, and Karato Market.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest train station: JR Shimonoseki Station — approximately 25-30 minutes on foot or 10 minutes by bus (towards Karato and Karato Market).
- Ferry (regular ferry): Ferries to Ganryujima mainly depart from Karato Port (near Karato Market). The journey is short, taking approximately 3 to 10 minutes. There are relatively many departures during the day, but the intervals between departures and fares vary depending on the season and day, so be sure to check the operating company's timetable in advance.
- Access by car: There is a parking lot (fee required) near Karato in the center of Shimonoseki City. It is common to take a ferry from Karato to the island. It is not possible to drive directly to the island.
- From the Kyushu side: Shimonoseki can be accessed by boat or road from Mojiko Port in Kitakyushu City. You can travel via the Kanmon Tunnel and Kanmon Bridge, and enjoy the view from the opposite shore.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Stroll around the island only: 30 minutes to 1 hour (time to see all the statues, monuments, and views)
- Combine with sightseeing in Shimonoseki: Half a day to a full day (3-6 hours) if you include a meal at Karato Market and Akama Shrine.
Nearby spots
- Karato Market (Shimonoseki): A gourmet spot offering fresh seafood and conveyor belt sushi. The ferry terminal to Ganryujima is also nearby.
- Akamagamo Shrine: A shrine originating from the ancient battlefield of Dannoura, and a place associated with the Tale of the Heike.
- Kaikyokan (Shimonoseki City Shimonoseki Aquarium): A large aquarium exhibiting creatures from the Kanmon Straits.
- Kanmon Bridge and Dannoura: A scenic spot for the entire Kanmon Strait. There is an observation deck and a promenade.
- Mojiko Retro (Moji, Kitakyushu City): A retro tourist area on the other side of the Kanmon Strait. You can get there in a short time by ferry or car.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Check the operation status: Ferries may be canceled due to weather (high waves or strong winds) or marine warnings. Be sure to check the latest information from the operating company before visiting.
- Restrictions on facilities and equipment: The island is small and facilities such as toilets and shops may be limited. We recommend that you go to Karato or other places to take care of your belongings before boarding.
- Crowds: The area around Karato and the ferry are crowded on weekends, national holidays, Golden Week, and during the summer vacation period. If you want to avoid the crowds, it is best to choose weekdays or early mornings.
- Manners and Conservation: Please observe good manners, such as not climbing on historical sites and monuments, and taking your trash with you. Be careful when walking on rocky shores and rocky areas as they can be slippery.
- Safety precautions: On days with strong sea winds and fast currents, please be especially careful when boarding and disembarking the boat, especially if you are traveling with small children or the elderly.
- Photography: Please be considerate when taking photos so as not to disturb other tourists.
(Note) The latest ferry times, fares, and information on local facilities are updated regularly on the official website and local guides. We recommend checking the latest information before visiting.
