Ukujijima (Uku Island) is located within the northernmost part of the Goto Islands in Nagasaki Prefecture, Japan, which was formed by a volcanic eruption about 190 years in the past. The island still preserves its breathtaking natural scenery, which blends harmoniously with the expansive ocean view from its northernmost point, evoking a feel of grandeur and majesty.
Ukujijima has faithfully preserved Japan’s pristine, unchanged panorama from ancient times. The humans who've lived in harmony with nature, embodying the essence of antique Japan, still live here nowadays. Experience the land, experience the lifestyle. Escape the hustle and bustle of the metropolis, and immerse yourself in the pleasures of island lifestyles.
Map of Uku Island
| Name | Uku Island (Japanese: 宇久島) |
| Country | Japan |
| Prefecture | Nagasaki |
| Coordinates | 33°16′11″N 129°06′46″E |
| Area | 24.9 km2 (9.61 sq mi) |
| Time zone | UTC +9 |
| Population | 1,766 |
| Airport | N/A |
History of Uku Island
Uku Island is a far-flung island that turned into formed around 1.9 million years ago by using the eruption of Mount Shiratake. The island’s number one industries are fishing and farm animal farming. Like many rural islands in Japan, Ukushima Island has visible a huge and constant population decline, from a height of almost 12,000 human beings in 1955 to just 2,187 by 2024. The coastline of Ukushima Island once boasted abundant shellfish and seaweed resources, harvested through both professional fishermen and local network residents.
In 1187, following the defeat in the Battle of Dan-no-Ura, Taira no Kiyomori’s more youthful brother, Taira no Iemori, landed in a small bay on Ukushima Island known as Funakakushi and later came to rule the island, subsequently being referred to as Uku Iemori. Several generations of the Taira extended family have been laid to rest at Tokoji Temple, positioned in the island’s middle, a temple famous for its extraordinary red gate.
In the early Tokugawa Shogunate duration, the fishing districts of Hei and Kaneura, alongside the relaxation of the Goto Islands, got here beneath the manipulation of the Fukue Domain. These regions specialized in exceptional fishing products, along with Hei, which became the center of industrial abalone fishing. However, within the 17th century, the island’s oldest commercial port, Kaneura, got here under the guideline of the newly formed Tomie Domain and refused to merge again with the Fukue Domain.
Best Tourist Attractions on Uku Island
Tsushimasehana Lighthouse (対馬瀬灯台) – A Photogenic Cape on the Northernmost Point of the Goto Islands
Located at the northern tip of Uku Island, the northernmost factor of the Goto Islands, this lighthouse stands solitary amidst an expanse of emerald-inexperienced grass. As the call shows, Tsushima Island lies just throughout the ocean. With the white lighthouse, the blue sea, sky, and pastoral scenery, this area feels like stepping into a Western portrait. It regularly seems in TV classified ads and magazines. In recent years, it has regained popularity as a picturesque sundown photography spot.
Ohama Beach (大浜海水浴場) – A 600-meter Stretch of Crystal-clear Waters
Ohama Beach is the most important white sand seashore on Uku Island, stretching about 600 meters. The shallow waters feature dunes that expand outward, and a rocky location beside the seashore permits coastline activities. Visitors can look at rare plants and bugs specific to the isolated island. The nearby campsite is geared up with showers and restrooms, making it ideal for households to enjoy swimming in the sea. This hidden beach, located inside Saikai National Park, was selected as considered one of Japan’s "Top a hundred Swimming Beaches" and boasts first-rate water readability, even most of the famously pristine waters of the Goto Islands.
Tokoji Temple (東光寺) – Traces of the Heike Clan’s Legacy
It is stated that Heike Morikatsu crossed from Hirado to Uku Island, expanding his electricity southward and eventually conquering the complete Goto Islands. Tokoji Temple changed into built as the own family temple of the Morikatsu lineage. Behind the main corridor lies a mausoleum that houses the tombs of Prince Iemori, the founding father of the Goto Domain, and his seven descendants. The stone steps leading to the temple are adorned with an enforcing vermilion triple gate. Inside the primary corridor, statues of Enma Daio (the Great King of Hell) and the Ten Kings, donated by way of the Whale Guild, are enshrined.
Koba Ranch (木場の放牧地) – The Birthplace of High-Quality Black Wagyu
Livestock farming is the backbone of Uku Island's industry, with Black Wagyu cattle being the primary breed raised here. The calves born on the island are later sent across the country, where they are raised as premium brand beef. Pasturing in the island's natural fields is a common practice, and it’s easy to spot the cattle grazing leisurely in the mineral-rich sea breeze.
Akao Giant Tree (アコウの巨樹) – A Historic Tree at the Power Station
The giant Akao tree in the Shimoshima area has been designated a natural monument by the city of Sasebo. Estimated to be several hundred years old, the tree’s trunk has a maximum circumference of 16 meters, with four large branches extending from its base, each appearing as though they are separate trees. The numerous aerial roots and prop roots give the area an air of mystery, making it feel like a sanctuary for deities. The entire region radiates overwhelming vitality, making it a popular spot for those seeking longevity and health.
Sugehama Beach (スゲ浜海水浴場) – A Picturesque Beach Where Sea Turtles Nest
Easily accessible from Uhirako Port in the center of the island, Sugehama is the second-largest beach after Ohama Beach. Canary Island date palms line the shoreline, creating a tropical resort-like atmosphere. While the beach is equipped with amenities such as restaurants, showers, and restrooms, its natural beauty remains intact. Schools of yellowtail fish and sea turtles come here to spawn and hatch. Facing the ocean, Sugehama is also a great spot for surfing and other water sports when the waves are up.
Shiode Beach (汐出海浜地) – Ideal for Swimming and Fishing, Perfect for Relaxation
One of Uku Island's three major beaches, Shiode Beach is often calm due to its location within a bay, making it the perfect place to enjoy the island's highly transparent waters and sparkling white sands. This simple, beloved beach is a favorite for locals and is especially popular with families with small children. A nearby fishing port adds to the charm. Situated in the southwestern part of the island, visitors can also enjoy views of the surrounding Goto Islands, including Kozushima.
Shirodake (城ヶ岳) – Also Known as "Ushiro Fuji"
Uku Island was formed 1.9 million years in the past by the eruption of Mount Shirodake. Located in the center of the island, it stands as the very best point, accomplishing an altitude of 258 meters. On clear days, the view from the observatory offers a panorama of the Iki and Tsushima Islands to the north, the Goto Islands to the south, and the Hirado and Ikitsuki Islands to the east. Near the summit, there is a strolling trail through the wooded area in which you may enjoy birdwatching and nature walks. Remnants of the stone fortifications from the vintage citadel mount continue to be, with shrines committed to Atago Jizo Bodhisattva and Kannon statues close by.
Hidden Boat (船隠し) – Once a Refuge for Taira Iemori, Now a Sunset Spot
When Lord Iemori and his birthday party arrived at Uku Island, it changed into all through a time of peril while the Taira clan became being decimated by way of the Genji. The call “Hidden Boat” originates from while nearby fishermen hid the prince's small boat in the bay to shield the weakened royal. The small hill in which people as soon as warmed themselves by bonfires is known as “Takizaki,” and it has emerge as a famous spot for looking sunsets.
Kamoura Port (神浦港ガード下) – Heavily Guarded with Vintage Posters as Relics
Inside the old tunnel, remnants of posters from the early Showa technology can still be visible, dating back to a time whilst Furunoura, Uku Island’s 2nd port, thrived as a buying and selling city. Though parts of the buildings have deteriorated, the nostalgic design and surroundings of the Showa length stay, along with classified ads for delivery agencies, soy sauce manufacturers, and pharmaceutical vendors of the time.
Recommend Points on Uku Island
Shi-en Festival (祇園祭) – Young Men Dressed in White as Messengers of the Gods
Uku Island’s largest festival takes location on the third Saturday and Sunday of July. Eight young guys from the island carry a sacred palanquin, weighing about 400 kilograms, and run at full pace across the island, praying for the fitness of the people. The "Chokkata Mawari," held each year, involves a 20-kilometer journey taking walks, wherein younger guys, proud of their stamina, put on white gowns and run around as messengers of the gods. This is a beloved summer way of life in Uku.
Sweet Potato Shochu "Shirodake" and "Iemori" – The Rich Flavor of Uku’s Sweet Potatoes
This nearby shochu is crafted from 100% candy potatoes grown on Uku Island. There are types: "Shirodake," which has a mildly sweet and refreshing taste, with a smooth texture and wealthy sweetness and aroma, ideal for the ones new to candy potato shochu. And "Iemori," wherein each candy potato’s flavor is wonderful and pronounced. These shochu varieties are available solely on Uku Island.
Wagyu Farming Experience – Would You Like to Raise Black Wagyu Cattle?
One of Uku Island’s oldest projects is its rural, mountain, and fishing village enjoy inns, that have gained a reputation in recent years. The Wagyu farming experience, especially, is distinctly famous in Uku, where Black Wagyu cattle are bred and raised. Over the path of about two hours, participants can experience numerous components of farm animal care, which include feeding calves and supporting smooth barns. Through this arms-on revel in, you can sense the connection between lifestyles and the meals we devour.
Fish Preparation Experience – I’ve Wanted to Handle Fish Since Arriving at the Island
This is one of the encouraged activities at the agricultural, mountain and fishing villages revel in hotels. For kids who've by no means treated fish before, this might be their first time, and even for adults, who regularly buy pre-reduce fish at supermarkets, it can be a new experience. Participants will discover ways to manage a knife step by step and prepare an entire fish stuck by way of the island’s fishermen. The revel lasts approximately an hour, and even though the fish you prepare might also come out a little misshapen, the taste may be uniquely unique. Through cooking, you can examine and respect a lot more about the elements.
How to Get to Uku Island
By Ferry from Hakata (Fukuoka) or Sasebo
For ferry bookings and inquiries, please visit the respective operating companies' websites.
▶Nomo Shipping Co., Ltd. (Fukuoka/Hakata Arrival) ▶ Kyushu Shipping Co., Ltd. (Nagasaki/Sasebo Departure/Arrival)
By Train (JR)
● Depart from Hakata Station – Take the train bound for Sasebo Station and disembark at Sasebo Station (final stop).
Estimated travel time: approximately 1 hour and 52 minutes.
Exit the station, and walk about 10 minutes to Sasebo Kujirase Ferry Terminal. Board the Kyushu Shipping Company's "Queen of the Sea" to Uku Island.
