Gunkanjima (Battleship Island)

Gunkanjima (軍艦島, Battleship Island) is a small island located just 20 kilometers from Nagasaki Port. Once a bustling coal mining community, Gunkanjima was home to over 5000 residents, making it the most densely populated place in history. The island, shaped like a battleship, earned the nickname "Gunkanjima" due to its resemblance to a massive warship. The island was home to mining facilities, residential areas, schools, shops, and even a hospital. However, after the mine's closure in 1974, residents left, and the island was abandoned, leaving behind haunting ruins.

Today, Gunkanjima is open for tours, allowing visitors to explore part of the island safely. Tours take you to three observation decks on the southern end, where you can witness the island’s eerie, deteriorating buildings. You can also enjoy a 50-minute boat ride from Nagasaki, offering beautiful views of the city and nearby islands. For those unable to visit the island, the Gunkanjima Digital Museum offers an immersive experience with a simulated journey into the mines and augmented reality tours of the island.