What to know
The Goto Islands (五島列島, Gotō-rettō, literally "five-island archipelago") are located about 100 kilometers off Kyushu's coast in the East China Sea, part of Nagasaki Prefecture. True to their name, they comprise five main islands plus many smaller ones. Fukue Island and Nakadori Island are the most populated and frequently visited.
The islands are renowned for their Christian heritage. Due to their isolation, they became a refuge for "Hidden Christians" who secretly practiced their faith during the two-century-long ban on Christianity. After the ban was lifted in 1873, dozens of churches were built across the islands, four of which were designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 2018.
Beyond the churches, the Goto Islands boast natural beauty with lovely beaches, mountains, and charming traditional fishing villages. One of the best ways to enjoy the scenery is from a ferry traveling between islands, offering views of the rugged coastlines.
The Goto Islands also served as the last stop for Japanese missions to Tang China between the 7th and 9th centuries. Many scholars, including Kukai and Saicho, studied in China and later introduced Shingon and Tendai Buddhism to Japan. Several sites linked to Kukai remain popular tourist attractions today.
Visitor information
Practical details to check before planning this stop.
- Hours
- Closed
- Admission
- English name
- Original name
- Goto Islands
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