Tiny Seto Inland Sea Island Faces Tension as Chinese Buyer Acquires Land, Locals Launch Crowdfunding
A small island in Japan’s Seto Inland Sea with only seven residents is facing unease after a Chinese national purchased 3,700㎡ of land.
Japan Islands
Discover the unique charm of Japan’s remote islands—from Okinawa’s hidden gems to Hokkaido’s natural paradise. Find travel guides, transportation tips, and cultural stories that reveal breathtaking scenery and experiences beyond Japan’s mainland.
Ukushima: Home of Japan’s Premium Wagyu “Ukushi Beef,” Surrounded by Emerald Seas and Golden Fields
Ukushima is located at the northern tip of the Goto Islands. Historically and geographically, it is often grouped with the Goto series, although administratively it belongs to the city of Sasebo. Sometimes it is also considered part of the Hirado Islands. What makes this island stand out are its lush green waters, golden sandy beaches, and vast grasslands that seem almost endless.
Yoron Island in Kagoshima: Japan’s Southern Pearl with a Magical Beach
Yoron Island is located approximately 590 kilometers south of mainland Kagoshima. Technically part of Kagoshima Prefecture, it's the southernmost island in the region. Still, being only 21 kilometers from the northern tip of Okinawa, the local atmosphere feels like a mix of both worlds.
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Kuchinoshima Island in Kagoshima: Wild Cows, Rare Lilies, and Hidden Hot Springs
Kuchinoshima is located at the northern tip of the Tokara Islands, a place where nature feels raw and untamed. Wild cows roam freely on the hills, while the faint scent of Tamotoyuri lilies fills the air.
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Exploring Japan’s “Ethereal Sanctuary”: Minamidaitō Island, a cliff‑bound realm concealing freshwater mangroves and a steam locomotive!
Rising from the depths of the Pacific Ocean, Minamidaito Island is located at 25°50'N, 131°14'E, about 340 kilometers east of the main island of Okinawa. Rising from the ocean floor some 4,000 meters deep, its pinnacle coral reefs rise repeatedly and form a rare raised atoll – one of only a handful worldwide – which is shared with its northern counterpart, Kitadaito.
Ie Island Okinawa Travel Guide: Sunset Views, Ancient Layers, and Hidden Stories
Ie Island in Okinawa blends history, nature, and culture. From the iconic Gusuku Mountain and WWII memorials to lily fields, sacred caves, and fresh water springs, this small island offers breathtaking views, local specialties, and unique experiences.
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Tsushima Island: Japan’s border bridge of friendship between Japan and South Korea
Tsushima Island, Japan's frontier island, is located 138 kilometers from Fukuoka City via Iki Island. Separated from Busan, South Korea, by the western channel of the Tsushima Strait, it stretches for approximately 49.5 kilometers. Excluding the four main islands and the northern regions, it is the fourth-largest island of Japan.
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Minna Island: Japan's most untouched remote island with white sand and emerald sea, watching the sunset with wild goats
The name Minna Islands refers to two separate islands in Okinawa Prefecture. This entry relates to Minna Island, located about 10 kilometers north of Tarama Island in the Miyako Islands group.