[2026] 9 Recommended "Remote Islands" You Can Visit from Kansai! Enjoy Resorts, Uninhabited Islands, Swimming, and Fishing!

[2025] 9 Recommended "Remote Islands" You Can Visit from Kansai! Enjoy Resorts, Deserted Islands, Swimming, and Fishing!

This article introduces a carefully selected list of recommended remote islands that are easily accessible from the Kansai region! Let's enjoy a trip to the islands with family, friends, or a partner!

Active types and laid-back types alike will thoroughly enjoy! 9 "remote islands" easily accessible from Kansai

The Kansai area has many islands easily accessible by ferry from the mainland, offering enjoyment for both active and relaxed travelers.

From resort islands where you can fully enjoy marine leisure like swimming and fishing, to uninhabited islands you can enjoy on a day trip, the options are varied. Some islands are equipped with accommodation facilities, so be sure to find the remote island that's perfect for you.

Tomogashima (Wakayama Prefecture): A Charm of Ruins and Nature

Tomogashima is an uninhabited island located between Kada in Wakayama City and Awaji Island. It's a captivating island with a mystical atmosphere where abandoned structures, described as "straight out of an anime," coexist with abundant nature. It comprises four islands: Jinojima, Torajima, Kamijima, and Okinoshima, with Okinoshima in particular featuring the remnants of former Japanese military fortresses.

Within Tomogashima, hiking around the battery ruins that have remained since the Meiji era is popular. A scenic view spreads out from the First Battery Ruins near the summit. Camping can also be enjoyed amidst the rich nature, and you can fully enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear sea. Access is also excellent, with only a 20-minute ferry ride from Kada Port.

At Tomogashima, you can experience a unique atmosphere where ruins and nature blend together. It's the perfect island for ruin enthusiasts, anime fans, and outdoor lovers.

Access: Approximately 20 minutes from the ferry terminal at Kōta Port

The convenience of being connected by a bridge is its charm: "Kii-Oshima Island (Wakayama Prefecture)"

Kii-Oshima is Wakayama Prefecture's largest island, with a circumference of 28km. Located east of Shionomisaki, the southernmost tip of Honshu, it faces the Pacific Ocean where the Kuroshio Current flows. It is connected to Honshu by the "Kushimoto Ohashi" bridge, making it easily accessible by car and a popular spot visited by many tourists.

The charm of Kii Oshima lies in the variety of activities you can enjoy. The entire island is known as a mecca for rock fishing, attracting many anglers year-round. At the "Kashino Fishing Park Center" in particular, you can rent fishing rods and bait, making it easy for beginners to enjoy sea fishing. Fish caught in set nets are released directly into the fishing pond, and you can even take home the fish you catch.

In the summer, it's also popular as a diving spot, and because you can also enjoy camping in its rich natural environment, it's a recommended island for those who want to enjoy various outdoor activities.

Access: Approximately 2.5 hours by train from Osaka.

"Home Islands (Hyogo Prefecture)," where you can enjoy island hopping.

The Ieshima Islands are an archipelago of 44 islands, large and small, floating about 18km from Himeji City in Hyogo Prefecture. They are accessible by boat from Himeji Port in about 30 minutes, making them enjoyable for a day trip.

Approximately 6,000 people live on the four islands of Iejima, Bōzejima, Ojima, and Nishijima, and when you visit as a tourist, you can also enjoy interacting with the islanders.

The charm of the Ieshima Islands lies in the ability to experience "island hopping," transferring between boats from one island to another. When crossing the calm Seto Inland Sea by boat, be sure to enjoy the experience while feeling the wind.

On Oga Island, you can fully enjoy swimming and fishing, while on Nishi Island, you can enjoy camping and outdoor activities. In addition to sightseeing, don't miss out on the seafood gourmet where you can savor the fresh seafood of the Seto Inland Sea.

Perfect for those who want to visit multiple islands or spend a leisurely time on the islands.

Access: Approximately 30 minutes by boat from Himeji Port

Myths and Strange Rocks are Enchanting: Numajima Island (Hyogo Prefecture)

Numashima is a small island floating near Awaji Island in Hyogo Prefecture, shaped like a magatama (a comma-shaped jewel) when viewed from above. It is considered one of the legendary locations of "Onokoro Island," which appears in the creation myth, and has been revered as sacred since ancient times. It is said that the "Numa" (swamp/marsh) in Numashima's name is also derived from the "Numa-hoko" (muddy spear) from the creation myth.

The highlights of Numashima are its rock formations of various shapes. The Uratategami-iwa rock, approximately 30 meters high and known as the "Gateway to Ryugu," is particularly impressive. The "Onokoro Cruise," which offers views of the strange rocks from the sea, is a major tourist attraction, so be sure to experience it.

Furthermore, there are ancient tombs and salt-making ruins on Numashima, offering a sense of historical romance. In the surrounding sea, you can enjoy swimming and fishing, making it a hidden gem spot known only to those in the know.

Recommended for those who want to experience mythical romance or seek a quiet island getaway.

Access: 10 minutes by high-speed ferry from the Nada Terminal Center on Awaji Island.

A well-equipped facility is its charm: "Awaji Island (Hyogo Prefecture)"

Awaji Island, the largest outlying island in Hyogo Prefecture, is known as the "Island of Creation" and is located in the eastern part of the Seto Inland Sea. It is connected to Kobe City by the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge and to Shikoku by the Ohnaruto Bridge, offering excellent accessibility despite being an island.

The island is well-equipped with hot springs and resort hotels, making it a recommended destination for a relaxing stay. There are various tourist spots, such as "Awaji Hanasajiki," where flowers bloom in every season, and "Izanagi Jingu," a power spot for marital harmony. You can fully enjoy swimming at the beaches, and there are also plenty of fishing spots. The local cuisine, featuring dishes made with ingredients like Awaji beef and onions, is also a major draw.

Awaji Island, which can be enjoyed as a day trip or an overnight stay, is recommended for those visiting an island for the first time, those who want to enjoy a variety of activities, and those looking for spots that can be enjoyed by people of all ages, from children to adults.

Access: Approximately 1.5 hours by car from Kobe/Osaka areas

The Emerald Green Sea is Captivating: "Jino-shima Island (Wakayama Prefecture)"

Chinoshima is an uninhabited island in Arida City, Wakayama Prefecture, boasting an area equivalent to 10 Tokyo Domes. Its accessibility is a key feature, being just a 7-minute ferry ride from Hatsushima Fishing Port.

This expansive beach, approximately 500 meters long, offers an emerald green sea renowned for its exceptional clarity in Wakayama Prefecture. The water quality is excellent and highly transparent, allowing you to enjoy swimming alongside small fish.

At the beach, you can enjoy barbecues and camping by reservation, allowing you to spend a luxurious time like a private beach. The swimming season runs from July 1st to August 31st, making it perfect for summer vacation outings.

Those seeking beautiful seas, couples looking for a special experience, and families are highly encouraged to visit.

Access: Approximately 7 minutes by ferry from Hatsushima Fishing Port

Chikubu Island (Shiga Prefecture): Mystique and Power That Captivate

Chikubu Island is a small island floating in Lake Biwa, measuring 2 km in circumference and 0.14 square kilometers in area. It is located about 6 km from the shore of Nagahama City, Shiga Prefecture, and is easily accessible, taking only 30 minutes by tourist boat from Nagahama Port.

Long revered as "the island where gods are enshrined," it is a special place still called "the island of mystery and romance." Designated as a national Place of Scenic Beauty and Historic Site, it was also registered as a Japan Heritage site in 2016.

Chikubu Island is considered a power spot in its entirety, and Hōgon-ji Temple on the island is counted as one of Japan's Three Great Benzaitens. It's said that many worshipers visit this strongest power spot alongside Itsukushima Shrine and Enoshima Shrine. On the island, in addition to shrines and temples, there are shops and tea houses along the approach.

This island can be recommended for those who want to refresh their mind and body at a power spot.

Access: 30 minutes by sightseeing boat from Nagahama Port

"Takokejima (Shiga Prefecture): A Charm of Varied Landscapes"

Takegashima is an island with sheer cliffs, approximately 600 meters in circumference, located about 6.5 kilometers offshore from Hikone city. It is said to have been named so because it shows various sceneries depending on the viewing direction.

The entirety of Takegashima island is the grounds of the Nichiren sect's Kentoji Temple, and the island itself has been revered as a divine entity since the Yayoi period. On the island, you'll find notable spots such as Kentoji Temple and the Daimoku Rock, where traces of blood from the assassination of Ii Naosuke during the Sakuradamon Incident are said to remain.

Access to Takegashima is by tourist boat departing from Hikone Port, with one departure daily for both the landing course and the circuit course. Even with a short 30-minute landing time, you can fully experience its power, making it recommended for history buffs and those who want to enjoy the spectacular views of Lake Biwa.

Access: JR Biwako Line, alight at "Hikone Station," then a 15-minute drive.

"Naoshima (Kagawa Prefecture)" where you can enjoy contemporary art

Naoshima is an island in Kagawa Prefecture that is gaining global attention as a mecca for contemporary art. It can be accessed by ferry in about 20 minutes from Uno Port in Okayama Prefecture, and about 50 minutes from Takamatsu Port in Kagawa Prefecture.

On Naoshima, works are dotted around, including Yayoi Kusama's "Red Pumpkin," which has become a symbol of the island, and other pieces that blend into the surrounding landscape, becoming one with nature.

Among them is "Benesse House Museum," a facility that combines a museum, hotel, and restaurant. Here, even non-staying guests can freely admire the artworks on the premises.

On Naoshima, in addition to appreciating art, you can also enjoy marine leisure activities such as swimming and fishing. Although it's an island in Kagawa Prefecture, it's located closer to Okayama Prefecture, making it conveniently accessible from the Kansai region, which is a great plus. It's the perfect island for those interested in contemporary art or seeking a unique experience you can't find elsewhere.

Access: Approximately 20 minutes by ferry from Uno Port in Okayama Prefecture.

Let's go on a trip to enjoy the islands near Kansai on our next day off!

This time, we introduced recommended remote islands around the Kansai region. The remote islands in Kansai range from uninhabited islands that are easy to visit on a day trip to full-fledged travel destinations with resort hotels.

With ample opportunities for activities like swimming, fishing, and camping, please find a remote island that suits your preferences and enjoy your trip.

Please see the following article for recommendations on remote islands across Japan.