Nakanoshima, Kagoshima - the Tiny Island That Makes You Forget Time

Nakanoshima, Kagoshima - 34363747

Nakanoshima is an island inside the Tokara Archipelago, located about 160 kilometres southwest of the Satsuma Peninsula. It is the biggest island in both location and population within the village of Toshima, and it hosts a branch of the local government places of work. Mount Ontake, status at 979 meters, is the best height inside the Tokara Archipelago. Situated inside the north-relevant part of the island, it's far reachable for climbing and boasts a lovely ridgeline, justifying its nickname, "The Tokara Fuji."

Map of Nakanoshima

Map of Nakanoshima 43688
NameNakanoshima (Japanese: 中之島)
CountryJapan
PrefectureKagoshima
Coordinates29°51′0″N 129°52′12″E
Area34.47 km2 (13.31 sq mi)
Time zoneUTC +9
Population146
HeliportNakanoshima Helipad

How to Get to Nakanoshima

From Kagoshima Main Port South Pier to Nakanoshima

  • Ferry "Toshima" (Village-operated) / Kagoshima Main Port South Pier ~ (via Kuchinoshima) Nakanoshima Port: 7 hours / 2-3 times per week

◆ From Suwanosejima to Nakanoshima

  • Ferry "Toshima" (Village-operated) / Kuroishi Port (Suwanosejima) ~ Nakanoshima Port: 1 hour 5 minutes / 2-3 times per week

Best Attractions on Nakanoshima

Natural Monument: Tokara Horses

Tokara Horses 3468

The Tokara horse is a small local species, unaffected by using Western breeds, and has been distinctive a herbal monument of Kagoshima Prefecture. These horses were added to Takarajima from Kikaijima around 1890 and were later referred to as "Bauma" after the war. Today, they breed on Nakanoshima and Takarajima inside the Tokara Archipelago.

Tokara horses are enormously small, standing at 100 to 120 centimetres tall, with a darkish brown coat and a mild temperament. In the beyond, they were used as farm horses for shipping, fieldwork, and sugarcane pressing. However, with the arrival of mechanization, their position as farm horses dwindled leading to a decline in their population.

Currently, numerous centres in Kagoshima Prefecture are running on their conservation and breeding, and their numbers are gradually growing. Nakanoshima is home to the Tokara horse farm, where you can witness these horses living carefree on the expansive plateau.

Nakanoshima Lighthouse (ヤルセ灯台)

The lighthouse is situated in the back of the farm, with Mount Jinnyomudake in the background. By passing via the farm's fence and taking walks for some time, you'll attain a scenic point of view. From the left facet of the building, you may see the Nanayyama coastline, Mount Ontake, and Kuchinoshima. The location beneath the lighthouse is likewise an exquisite spot for coastal fishing. If you open the fence, please make sure to close it in a while.

Near the lighthouse, not most effective can see the Nanayyama coastline and Mount Ontake, however, you could additionally view the neighbouring Kuchinoshima.

Mount Ontake (御岳)

The contrast between the bright blue sky and the green vegetation is stunning. The summit offers a spectacular view, and climbing the mountain is a rewarding experience.

Nanayyama Coastline (七ッ山海岸)

The only viewpoint on the island where you can see both the beautiful coastline and the highest peak of the Tokara Archipelago, Mount Ontake.

Toshima Village Observatory (中之島天文台)

One of the most important Cassegrain-type 60cm reflecting telescopes in Kyushu, Japan has been installed. It is equipped with a reveal that permits more than one individual to look at the stars simultaneously. Prior reservation is needed before travelling.

Toshima Village History and Folklore Museum (十島村歴史民俗資料館)

The Tokushima Village Historical Folklore Museum is positioned in front of the Tokushima Horse Racing Field. The museum offers an outline of the islands from Kuchinoshima to Takarajima, in addition to the evolution of village boats connecting the various islands, providing insights into the records, traditions, way of life, and spirit of the Tokushima Archipelago.

Here, you could find a plethora of rare folkloric materials unique to Tokushima, showcasing the fusion of Yamato and Ryukyuan cultures.

Furthermore, the museum displays a comprehensive collection of Tokushima's particular traditional materials, which includes unmarried-log canoes in general used for fishing, fishing equipment, folk gear, pottery, and more, all made using Tokushima's exclusive production techniques.

Fishing Spots

  • Kusase (草瀬)

Located inside the northeast part of the island. While it's far more viable to walk there, it's recommended to take the ferry.

  • Takamotosaki and Oogisaki (高元崎・大木崎)

On the principal-northern coast of the eastern sea, there are quick currents arranged like camel humps.

  • Around Cape Seri (セリ岬)

Excellent fishing spots are focused on the southern tip of the island, mainly close to the base of the Yaruse Lighthouse.

  • Hirase (平濑)

This is a floating quick modern-day off the southwest coast of Cape Seri.

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