Nushima Island
Nushima Island: a mythical birthplace of Japan, offering serene landscapes, ancient legends, and a tranquil escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Ideal for swimming & boat cruises
Nushima Island
Best Time
Ideal for swimming & boat cruises
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Nushima Island: a mythical birthplace of Japan, offering serene landscapes, ancient legends, and a tranquil escape.
"A small remote island south of Awaji Island, said to be Onokoro Island from the Japanese Creation Myth."
🚢 Ferry Essentials
Ferry to Nushima is ~10 mins, ¥920 round trip. Runs hourly. No cars allowed on island! :ferry:
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Bring good walking shoes! Some paths can be overgrown, and you'll be exploring on foot. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Onokoro Island Mythology
Explore the mythical birthplace of Japan, where gods Izanagi and Izanami created the islands. Feel the ancient legends come alive.
Kamitategamiiwa Rock
Southern Nushima
A majestic 30-meter high rock formation, significant in Shinto mythology as a sacred vow site for the gods.
Fishing Harbor & Townscape
Wander through a charming fishing harbor with a timeless townscape that feels preserved from a bygone era.
Secluded Beaches
Discover hidden, private beaches perfect for a peaceful escape, offering a serene natural retreat.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Mythical Origins & Modern Access
Island Exploration & Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚢 Ferry Essentials
Ferry to Nushima is ~10 mins, ¥920 round trip. Runs hourly. No cars allowed on island! :ferry:
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Bring good walking shoes! Some paths can be overgrown, and you'll be exploring on foot. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Pack Your Own Water
Limited amenities on the island. Bring water, snacks, and anything else you might need. :water_wave:
🚽 Toilet Strategy
Toilets are scarce. Use facilities at the port before you leave Awaji Island. :toilet:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Ferry Essentials
Ferry to Nushima is ~10 mins, ¥920 round trip. Runs hourly. No cars allowed on island! :ferry:
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Bring good walking shoes! Some paths can be overgrown, and you'll be exploring on foot. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Pack Your Own Water
Limited amenities on the island. Bring water, snacks, and anything else you might need. :water_wave:
🚽 Toilet Strategy
Toilets are scarce. Use facilities at the port before you leave Awaji Island. :toilet:
🎣 Fishing & Trekking
Great for year-round fishing and trekking. Enjoy the natural beauty and quiet atmosphere. :fishing_pole:
🍲 Conger Eel Delicacy
Don't miss the island's specialty: delicious conger eel dishes at local restaurants. :knifeforkplate:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Nushima Island is praised for its serene, remote atmosphere and deep connection to Japanese creation myths. Visitors enjoy the short ferry ride, the unique mythological sites like Kamitategamiiwa rock, and the chance to experience a tranquil island life. However, some find the limited amenities and potentially overgrown paths a drawback.
"It's about a 10-minute ferry ride from Awaji Island.
It was a lovely remote island.
We were able to spend a relaxing time on the island, surrounded by nature."
kyoko
"It's a special island of the gods.
I'd like to visit again and again.
The air is also very clear."
NOA
"A small remote island south of Awaji Island. There are various theories about the island's magatama-like shape, but it is said to be Onokoro Island from the Japanese Creation Myth.
Access the island via the Nushima Kisen ferry. The round-trip fare is 920 yen per adult. The ferry departs approximately hourly, taking about 10 minutes. While there's some rocking, the journey is quick, so seasickness isn't a concern. Parking is 500 yen per day. Vehicles are not permitted on Nushima.
Leisure activities on the island include swimming and boat cruises in the summer. Fishing and trekking are available year-round. There are restaurants serving the island's specialty, conger eel. Don't expect to find many shops. Local supplies are difficult to come by, with only a few drink vending machines, so you'll need to bring everything you need before you set off.
Outside of the port area, there's generally no human presence, and the only other places you'll encounter are tourists.
I toured the island's attractions from the central to southern parts. It's about a 7.5km walk. The outer road is wide enough for a compact car to pass through, and many sections are paved, making it easy to walk. However, some of the side roads shown on the map have become overgrown with bushes and are now abandoned. There are virtually no toilets, so it's best to use them beforehand.
It's a great place to experience the laid-back atmosphere unique to remote islands. You can enjoy it even if you only stay for a few hours, so it's also recommended to pop in on a whim."
Ar Kn
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Nushima Island is easily accessible via a 10-minute ferry ride from Habu Port on Awaji Island. Ferries depart approximately hourly, and the round-trip fare is around 920 yen per adult. The journey is short and generally not an issue for those prone to seasickness.
No, vehicles are not permitted on Nushima Island. Visitors must park their cars on Awaji Island, typically for a fee of 500 yen per day, and then take the ferry.
The best way to explore Nushima Island is on foot. The island is small enough to walk around, and comfortable shoes are highly recommended as some paths can be overgrown.
Absolutely! Nushima Island is perfect for a day trip from Awaji Island. You can enjoy its unique atmosphere, mythology, and natural beauty within a few hours.
The ferry ride from Awaji Island to Nushima Island is very short, taking only about 10 minutes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for the ferry to Nushima Island can typically be purchased at the port on Awaji Island before departure. Advance booking is usually not necessary for this short ferry route.
The Nushima Kisen ferry operates approximately hourly. It's advisable to check the latest schedule before your visit, as timings can vary.
There is no specific entrance fee to visit Nushima Island. The primary cost is the ferry fare to reach the island.
While specific passes are not widely advertised, the round-trip fare is quite reasonable at 920 yen per adult, making it an affordable excursion.
For swimming and boat cruises, summer is ideal. However, Nushima offers year-round opportunities for fishing and trekking, with a generally low crowd level outside of peak summer.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Nushima Island is famous for its connection to Japanese creation myths, particularly as 'Onokoro Island.' Key sights include the majestic Kamitategamiiwa rock, the charming fishing harbor, and its timeless townscape. 
Expect a rich natural environment with leafy hills and a clear, refreshing atmosphere. The island offers opportunities for enjoying the sea, trekking through its landscapes, and discovering secluded beaches.
Nushima Island has very limited amenities. You'll find a few restaurants, notably serving the local specialty conger eel, but don't expect many shops. It's best to bring your own supplies.
Yes, Nushima Island offers unique photographic opportunities, from its mythological rock formations and charming harbor to its serene natural landscapes and secluded beaches.
Nushima Island is a small island with fewer than 400 residents, contributing to its peaceful and remote atmosphere.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The island's culinary highlight is its delicious conger eel dishes. Several restaurants on Nushima serve this local specialty, making it a must-try for visitors.
Dining options are limited on Nushima Island. While there are a few restaurants, it's advisable to check their operating hours and be prepared with your own snacks if needed.
Yes, as a fishing island, Nushima offers fresh seafood. The conger eel is particularly renowned, but other local catches may also be available depending on the season.
One recommendation for family trips is Kimuraya, suggesting that some establishments cater to families looking for a relaxed dining experience.
Given the limited dining options, it's best to research specific restaurants in advance or bring your own food if you have strict dietary needs.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots at Kamitategamiiwa rock, the picturesque fishing harbor, the ancient townscape, and any secluded beaches you discover. The island's mythological sites also offer unique photo opportunities.
Yes, Nushima Island provides beautiful natural landscapes, from its coastal views to its leafy hills, making it a great destination for landscape photographers.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens would be beneficial for capturing both wide landscapes and details of the rock formations and harbor. A wide-angle lens can also be useful for the scenic views.
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, can offer beautiful lighting for the island's scenery. However, the unique mythological sites can be photographed effectively at any time.
Information regarding drone usage is not readily available. It's always best to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permissions before flying a drone in protected or residential areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 While amenities are limited, bringing snacks and drinks is easy with kids. Consider visiting during summer for potential beach play, but always supervise children closely near the water. 🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
📸 Photographers & Culture Enthusiasts
+1 The charming fishing harbor and timeless townscape provide picturesque scenes, while the natural beauty offers stunning vistas. +1 Visiting Nushima allows for a deep dive into Japanese folklore and provides a visually rich experience for those interested in capturing the essence of a mythical island. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mythical Origins of Nushima Island
+1 This mythical significance imbues the island with a unique spiritual aura, attracting visitors interested in Japan's foundational legends. The island's landscape, particularly the striking Kamitategamiiwa rock, is intrinsically linked to these creation stories, serving as a tangible connection to Japan's ancient past. Exploring Nushima allows visitors to step into a living myth. The island's serene atmosphere and natural beauty are said to echo the divine act of creation. While the island is small, its historical and mythological importance is immense. It's a place where you can feel the weight of centuries and the power of ancient beliefs. The connection to these myths is a primary draw for many travelers seeking a deeper understanding of Japanese culture and spirituality.
+1Navigating Nushima Island: Access and Exploration
Once on Nushima, exploration is best done on foot. The island's perimeter is approximately 7.5km, a manageable distance for a leisurely walk.
Experiencing Nushima's Culinary Delights
Beyond conger eel, the island's identity as a fishing community means that other fresh seafood options might be available depending on the season and catch.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit