Exploring Nagasaki’s Abandoned Battleship Island: Urban Exploration Adventure

Hashima Island: The Abandoned Battleship Island of Nagasaki

Hashima Island, known as Gunkanjima or "Battleship Island," is a fascinating and eerie urban exploration destination located about 15 kilometers off the coast of Nagasaki, Japan. This small island, once the most densely populated place on Earth, now stands as a haunting testament to Japan's industrial past.

History and Significance

Hashima Island was first inhabited in 1887 after coal was discovered there in 1810. The island flourished as a coal mining community, with Mitsubishi Goshi Kaisha building Japan's first large reinforced concrete building in 1916 to house the growing number of workers. At its peak, the island was home to over 5,000 residents, making it the most densely populated area in the world.

The island's history is also marked by controversy, particularly during the 1930s to 1945, when conscripted Korean civilians and Chinese prisoners of war were forced to work under harsh conditions. It is estimated that about 1,300 of these laborers died on the island due to various dangers.

Why It's Called Battleship Island

Hashima Island earned its nickname "Battleship Island" due to its unique shape, which resembles a Japanese battleship. The island's rugged form and dense clusters of concrete towers contribute to this striking appearance.

Visiting the Island

Visiting Hashima Island is possible only through guided tours, which typically depart from Nagasaki Port. These tours are regulated by Nagasaki City, ensuring safety and preserving the island's integrity. Here are some key points to consider:

• Tour Operators: Several companies, such as Gunkanjima Concierge, Gunkanjima Cruise, and Yamasa Shipping, offer daily boat tours. Each tour has a similar itinerary but may differ in departure points, pre-landing activities, and alternative plans if landing is not possible.
• Weather Conditions: The ability to land on the island is heavily dependent on weather conditions. Tours can be canceled if wave heights exceed 0.5 meters, wind speeds are above 5 meters per second, or visibility is below 500 meters.
• Safety Restrictions: Due to the risk of building collapse, visitors are restricted to specific viewing areas and must stay on marked paths. No entry into the buildings is allowed for safety reasons.

Tour Experience

The tour experience includes a 45-minute to 1-hour visit to the island, where guides provide detailed explanations of the island's history. Here’s what you can expect:

• Departure and Arrival: Tours depart from Nagasaki Port, with a 45-minute boat ride to the island. Upon arrival, visitors are taken to three observation decks along the southern end of the island.
• Observation Decks: The observation decks offer a glimpse into the island's past, with views of the concrete buildings and the surrounding sea. Guides provide historical context and insights into the lives of the former residents.
• Alternative Plans: If landing is not possible due to weather conditions, the tour may be converted into a Circumnavigation Tour, where the boat sails around the island with commentary.

Getting There

To reach Nagasaki Port, where the tours depart, you can use the following transportation options:

• By Tram: From Nagasaki Eki-mae Station, take a 3-minute tram ride towards Sofukuji Station and get off at Ohato Station.
• By Bus: From Nagasaki Airport, take a 40-minute bus ride to Ohato Station.

Additional Resources

For those who cannot visit the island in person, the Gunkanjima Digital Museum on the mainland offers a virtual reality experience, allowing visitors to explore areas of the island that are not open to the public.

Costs and Booking

Tours typically cost between ¥4,000 to ¥5,000 per person, depending on the tour operator and the type of seating chosen. Prior booking is recommended, especially for the morning tours, as the afternoon tours often sell out quickly.

Tips for Visitors

• Weather Preparation: Be prepared for variable weather conditions. Bring a warm, waterproof coat, as the upper part of the boat can get chilly.
• No Umbrellas: Umbrellas are not allowed on the island, so ensure you have appropriate clothing for rain.
• Respect the Site: Remember to respect the site and its history. Stay on marked paths and follow the guides' instructions to ensure safety and preserve the island's integrity.