Iki, Tsushima, Goto Islands

Destinations:

Iki Island:

• Nagatsubodake Viewpoint: Hike to this viewpoint for panoramic views of the island.
• Iki City Ikikoku Museum: Learn about the island's history and culture.
• Iki Shizen Koen (Iki Natural Park): Explore the island's natural beauty and beaches.

Tsushima Island:

• Takahama Beach: Enjoy the beautiful beach and clear waters.
• Tojinbo Cliffs: Admire the stunning cliffs and the Tsushima Strait.
• Remains of Shuinsen Ship: Discover the history of Korean envoys on the island.

Goto Islands:

• Dozaki Church: Visit this historic Catholic church with picturesque views.
• Arikawa Beach: Relax on the sandy beach with crystal-clear waters.
• Goto Historical Museum: Explore the island's history and heritage.

Dining:

Iki Island:

• Iki Udon: Try the local specialty, Iki Udon, a thick wheat noodle dish.
• Fresh Seafood: Enjoy freshly caught seafood at local restaurants.

Tsushima Island:

• Tsushima Sushi: Savor sushi made with local ingredients, including seafood.
• Tanjakuan: Sample local dishes like Champon noodles and Tsushima beef.

Goto Islands:

• Goto Soba: Taste Goto soba, a regional soba noodle dish.
• Island Seafood: Savor an array of seafood, including sashimi and grilled fish.

Lodging:

Iki Island:

• Ryokans and Minshuku: Experience traditional Japanese hospitality at local inns.

Tsushima Island:

• Hotels and Guesthouses: Find comfortable accommodations with scenic views.

Goto Islands:

• Ryokans and Minshuku: Enjoy a relaxed stay in traditional Japanese inns.

Hot Springs (Onsen):

Iki Island:

• Iki Island Onsen: Soak in soothing hot springs with ocean views.

Tsushima Island:

• Tsushima Onsen: Relax in natural hot springs surrounded by nature.

Goto Islands:

• Dozaki Onsen: Experience the therapeutic benefits of island hot springs.

Activities:

Iki Island:

• Beach Activities: Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and water sports.
• Cycling: Explore the island's beauty by bike.

Tsushima Island:

• Hiking: Explore hiking trails with scenic views.
• Marine Activities: Try diving or sea kayaking.

Goto Islands:

• Island Hopping: Visit different islands within the Goto archipelago.
• Cultural Experiences: Participate in traditional craft workshops.

Souvenirs:

Iki Island:

• Iki Udon Noodles: Bring back locally made udon noodles.
• Iki Shochu: Purchase locally distilled shochu.

Tsushima Island:

• Tsushima Souvenirs: Find unique souvenirs at local shops and markets.

Goto Islands:

• Goto Crafts: Look for locally made crafts, such as pottery and textiles.
• Regional Sake: Buy sake produced on the islands as a gift.

Specialties and Local Foods:

Iki Island:

• Iki Udon (壱岐うどん): Iki is famous for its thick, chewy wheat noodles served with various toppings and savory broths.
• Iki Beef (壱岐牛): Savor the rich flavors of locally raised Iki beef, known for its tenderness and marbling.
• Iki Sake (壱岐酒): Enjoy sake produced on the island, often made from high-quality rice.

Tsushima Island:

• Tsushima Sushi (対馬寿司): Tsushima is renowned for its fresh seafood, making sushi a must-try dish.
• Champon (ちゃんぽん): This noodle dish features a flavorful broth with seafood and vegetables.
• Tsushima Nabe (対馬鍋): A hot pot dish with a variety of ingredients, often enjoyed in colder months.

Goto Islands:

• Goto Soba (五島そば): Savor the local soba noodles, often served cold with dipping sauce.
• Goto Beef (五島牛): Goto Islands produce their own high-quality beef, known for its rich flavor.
• Goto Seafood: Enjoy a wide range of seafood, from sashimi to grilled fish.

Highly Rated Restaurants:

Breakfast:

In these remote islands, many accommodations offer traditional Japanese breakfasts as part of your stay.

Lunch:

Iki Island:

Explore local eateries and udon shops for a hearty lunch.

Tsushima Island:

• Isonoura Tsushima Sushi: Try Tsushima's famous sushi for lunch.
• Tanjakuan: Sample regional dishes, including Champon noodles.

Goto Islands:

• Sakuraya: Enjoy Goto soba and seafood for lunch.

Dinner:

Iki Island:

• Nishino Udon: Savor delicious udon noodles for dinner.
• Iki Kaisen Dining Hitoshio: Enjoy fresh seafood in a cozy setting.

Tsushima Island:

• Tachibana: Savor local seafood and sushi for dinner.
• Minato Shokudo: Try Japanese and Korean dishes in a casual atmosphere.

Goto Islands:

• Gotohanten: Enjoy a variety of Japanese dishes, including seafood.

Souvenirs:

Iki Island:

• Iki Udon Noodles: Buy locally made udon noodles to take home.
• Iki Sake: Purchase bottles of Iki Island sake as gifts.
• Crafts: Look for unique island crafts and souvenirs.

Tsushima Island:

• Local Seafood: Buy dried fish or seafood products as souvenirs.
• Tsushima Sake: Bring back locally brewed sake.
• Tsushima Crafts: Find crafts made by local artisans.

Goto Islands:

• Goto Pottery: Consider buying Goto-yaki pottery.
• Local Sake: Pick up sake produced on the islands.
• Regional Snacks: Look for island-made sweets and snacks.

Exploring local markets, shops, and restaurants is a great way to discover even more unique dishes and souvenirs. Enjoy your culinary journey and shopping adventures in Iki, Tsushima, and the Goto Islands!

Festivals and Events:

Spring (春):

• Iki Goto Ume Matsuri (Iki Goto Plum Festival): Celebrated in late February to early March on the Goto Islands, this event showcases the beauty of blooming plum blossoms.

Summer (夏):

• Iki Toshidon Festival: Held in July on Iki Island, this festival features traditional dance performances and a lively parade, with Toshidon, a unique local folk dance, as a highlight.

Fall (秋):

• Tsushima Taiko Festival: Typically taking place in October on Tsushima Island, this festival highlights traditional Japanese drumming performances (taiko), along with parades and festivities.

Winter (冬):

• Goto Ushio Festival: Occurring in February on the Goto Islands, this festival is known for unique rituals, including a ceremony where participants throw beans into the sea to pray for a good harvest.

Special Features:

• Nagasaki Kunchi Festival (Tsushima Island): While not specific to Tsushima, this famous festival in Nagasaki City often includes performances and cultural displays from Tsushima Island due to its historical connection.

Please note that festival dates may vary from year to year, so it's advisable to check local event calendars and tourism websites closer to your travel dates for the most up-to-date information. These festivals provide an excellent opportunity to experience the vibrant traditions and culture of Iki, Tsushima, and the Goto Islands. Enjoy your sightseeing trip!

Climate and Temperatures:

Spring (春):

• Climate: Spring in these islands is typically mild and comfortable, ideal for sightseeing.
• Temperature: Daytime temperatures range from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F), with cool nights.
• Special Features: Cherry blossoms (sakura) bloom during spring, adding beauty to sightseeing.

Rainy Season (梅雨):

• Climate: The rainy season, known as "tsuyu" in Japanese, occurs in June, bringing humid and wet conditions.
• Temperature: Daytime temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).
• Special Features: Despite the rain, lush greenery thrives during this period.

Summer (夏):

• Climate: Summers can be hot and humid, especially in July and August.
• Temperature: Daytime temperatures can exceed 30°C (86°F+), requiring sun protection.
• Special Features: Summer offers beach activities and vibrant local festivals.

Fall (秋):

• Climate: Autumn brings cooler and more comfortable weather.
• Temperature: Daytime temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), with cooler nights.
• Special Features: Enjoy spectacular autumn foliage and outdoor activities.

Winter (冬):

• Climate: Winters can be cold, especially in January and February.
• Temperature: Daytime temperatures range from 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F), with freezing nights.
• Special Features: Winter offers a unique charm, including the possibility of snowfall and special events like the Goto Ushio Festival.

Be sure to check the local weather forecasts when planning your trip and pack accordingly for the specific season you'll be visiting. Each season has its own unique appeal and opportunities for sightseeing, allowing you to enjoy the islands' beauty year-round.