Koshikishima Island

An island trip surrounded by tranquility and spectacular views - The charm of Koshikijima

Located to the west of Satsumasendai City in Kagoshima Prefecture, Koshikishima Island is a remote island where abundant nature and simple island life still thrive. With its steep cliffs, crystal clear waters, and soothing sunsets, this island is loved by many as a place where you can experience a "true journey" away from the hustle and bustle. The sheer cliff scenery that unfolds mainly along the west coast is breathtaking, and activities such as the "Koshikishima Cliff Cruise" are also popular. In addition to nature, the island also retains the scenery of historic samurai residences and fishing villages, making it an island that can be enjoyed by walking, seeing, and feeling.

A guide to Koshikijima, where history, nature, and lifestyle come together

Located in the East China Sea about 30km west of the Kagoshima mainland, the Koshikijima Islands are made up of three main islands - Kami-Koshikijima, Naka-Koshikijima, and Shimo-Koshikijima - and several smaller islands. In 2020, all of the islands were connected to the mainland by bridges, making travel around the islands more convenient. However, the islands' "tranquility, as if time has stopped," remains unchanged. It is a place that has not become too touristy, where nature and human life still thrive.

The most representative scenery of Koshikijima is the sheer cliffs on the west coast . Among them, Napoleon Rock and Kanoko Cliffs are works of art carved by nature over a long period of time. These views can be seen from land, but a cliff cruise is a must-experience. The cliffs seen from the sea on a small boat are on a completely different scale and impressive. The experience of being surrounded by the towering rock walls, the chirping of birds, and the sounds of the waves is truly a time to feel the "heartbeat of the earth."

There are many spots on the island that are perfect for a stroll. On Kamikoshikijima's Satomachi Samurai Residence Street , stone walls and gated houses that retain the atmosphere of the Edo period line the streets, allowing you to leisurely stroll while imagining what life was like in the past. Also, at Nakakoshikijima's Koshiki Museum , you can have fun learning about the island's origins, geology, flora and fauna, history and culture, deepening your travel knowledge.

Furthermore, the Teuchi district of Shimokoshikijima still retains the atmosphere of a former castle town and port town, allowing you to feel the island life integrated with the fishing port. At dusk, the tranquility of the port and the orange-hued sky gently envelop the hearts of those who see it.

Another attraction of Koshikijima is the closeness between life and nature . The rice terraces that local people continue to protect, the fishing industry that is carried out by hand, and the festivals and customs that are unique to the island that are part of daily life. Another great feature of Koshikijima is that you can blend into the island as a "traveler" rather than as a tourist.

The food is also not to be missed. In addition to fresh seafood, the charm lies in the simple flavors that make use of local ingredients, such as the famous "koshiki sushi" and "dried flying fish." Among the accommodations, there are also guesthouses that serve dishes made with an abundance of seasonal fish procured from local fishermen, allowing you to enjoy the flavors of the island to your heart's content.

Access is approximately 50 minutes by high-speed boat from Kawauchi Port, or a leisurely 90-minute ferry ride from Kushikino Port. In recent years, the opening of the Koshiki Ohashi Bridge has made travelling around the island smoother, and it is also possible to tour by rental car or electric bicycle.

With a rich variety of seasonal expressions, there is endless charm throughout the year, from spring flowers, playing in the sea in summer, autumn evenings, and the clear air and starry skies of winter. Koshikijima is a place where you can not only "see" the tourist attractions, but also "feel" the island life, making it the perfect destination for a "journey to soothe your soul."