Gunkanjima – Battleship Island

Gunkanjima, translated as Battleship Island, because it’s an island that looks like the outline of a battleship. Gunkanjima or Hashima Island is an abandoned mining community where miners and their families lived. This island has concrete remains of houses and schools, eerily abandoned when the underground mines closed in 1974.

The only way to get to Battleship Island, is by joining a boat tour that leaves from Nagasaki port. The Island is 15km out from the port.

The boat ride itself was interesting as we cruised by townships snuggled into the hills and the industrial areas of the port.

As we neared the island it was obvious why it was called Battleship Island, it truly looked like a battleship cruising through the sea.

We hadn’t asked for an English guide as my brother is fluent in Japanese, but we were given a private tour with an English guide. He told us the fascinating and slightly dark history of this eerie abandoned island and personal stories.

Who would enjoy this…

All ages. It is a very easy walk around the island on footpaths. Visitors are only allowed on the footpaths. It can be a little rough on the boat, depending on the weather.

Homework

Watch Skyfall and try and spot Gunkanjima – ok perhaps this is for the adults!

Need more info?

Japan Guide
Comparison of the tour operators

While in Nagasaki check out…

Nagasaki Peace Park
Glover Garden
Dutch quarter
Night view