Japan’s 7 Most Popular Ruins Sites: Battleship Island Makes the List Again

By / MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Department
 
In recent years, an alternative trend of ruins tourism has emerged, attracting anime fans, ruin enthusiasts, and even wedding photographers. Whether it’s remote uninhabited islands, abandoned amusement parks, or former mining sites, the strong postmodern vibe makes every snapshot captivating. The mystery of these forgotten ruins is fascinating, making them one of the latest hotspots for tourist photos.

1. Battleship Island (Gunkanjima)

Battleship Island began coal mining development in 1890 and became a key pillar of Japan’s modernization as part of the Hashima coal mining operations. Though a small island, it was home to nearly 5,000 people at its peak. After closing in 1974, the island became uninhabited, but facilities such as hospitals, schools, shrines, and cinemas built during the residential era remain well-preserved. In 2015, Gunkanjima was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, bringing it back into the global spotlight.

2. Tomogashima (Friend Islands)

Tomogashima (Tomogashima) is an uninhabited island floating in the Kii Channel off Wakayama. It retains gun batteries used by the Japanese military during wartime, with red-brick buildings now covered in vegetation, creating a dreamlike landscape reminiscent of a real-life “Castle in the Sky.” It’s beloved not only by ruin enthusiasts but also by anime fans, generating significant buzz. Aside from certain restricted areas, most of the island is open for exploration and can be reached by speedboat from Kada Port.

3. Sarushima (Monkey Island)

Sarushima is the only uninhabited island in Tokyo Bay. Once used as a naval fortress with artillery installations, it is now part of Sarushima Park and features walking trails where visitors can freely stroll. The island still retains remnants such as tunnels, barracks, and ammunition depots, offering a glimpse into its past and preserving historical memories. It takes about 10 minutes to reach by boat from Yokosuka’s Mikasa Bridge, or around an hour from Tokyo, making it a top choice for travelers seeking a light ruins-themed getaway.

4. Kezo Numa Amusement Park

In 1979, a Sendai real estate developer opened Kezo Numa Amusement Park to boost local tourism. Due to the economic downturn from the burst of Japan’s bubble economy, visitor numbers declined, and the park closed in 2001. The Ferris wheel and other rides were preserved after appeals, and the original staff regularly clean the grounds. Although entry is not allowed without permission, guided tours are occasionally held for the general public.