Guide
Ganryujima (officially known as Funashima) is a deserted island located in the Kanmon Straits near Shimonoseki City, Yamaguchi Prefecture. The island features a relatively flat terrain and has been developed into a scenic park. Its most significant feature is its status as the legendary site of the 1612 duel between the famous swordsmen Miyamoto Musashi and Sasaki Kojiro. Visitors can enjoy the majestic natural scenery of the Kanmon Straits while exploring the island's artificial beaches, multi-purpose plazas, and observation decks.
Historically, this island was known as "Funashima." It gained its current name, Ganryujima, from the legendary duel between Miyamoto Musashi and Sasaki Kojiro. In the past, the area was known for its difficult navigation due to nearby reefs. The island also holds a complex history, having hosted a medical facility for cholera during the Meiji era and serving as a strictly controlled military fortification area prior to World War II. Although it became a deserted island after residents left in 1973, it has since been preserved as a significant historical and tourist destination.
The island is adorned with various monuments that symbolize its storied past. At the observation plaza, bronze statues of Miyamoto Musashi and Sasaki Kojiro stand facing each other, vividly recreating the atmosphere of their legendary duel. Near the pier, you will find the "Ganryujima Literature Monument" and the "Sasaki Ganryu Monument" erected during the Meiji era. On the eastern coast, a walking path offers a close-up view of large ships navigating the Kanmon Straits. The artificial beaches and multi-purpose areas also provide a wonderful environment to relax amidst nature.
The ideal months to visit are April and May, when the weather is mild and pleasant for exploring the island. During the "Shimonoseki Kaikyo Festival" in May, special events such as reenactments of the famous duel are sometimes organized as part of the Ganryujima Festival. Additionally, the island is occasionally illuminated at night, offering a serene and mystical atmosphere that is quite different from the daytime.
Main activities include strolling through the well-maintained park and relaxing by the artificial beaches. Under certain conditions, visitors can enjoy a barbecue at the "Rest Area" (Note: prior application is required). During the ferry ride, passengers can enjoy the atmosphere of the journey, with information provided regarding the history of Ganryujima and the surrounding scenery. For a fun photo opportunity, there are also face-in-hole boards designed to look like Musashi and Kojiro.
For a spectacular view of Ganryujima, visit the "Kaikyo Yume Tower" in Shimonoseki. From the observation deck on the 30th floor (153m high), you can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of the island and the Kanmon Straits. Other great vantage points include "Hinoyama Park" and the waterfront near the Karato Market area.
We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and casual clothing for your exploration. Please be aware that there are no shops, vending machines, water facilities, or trash collection points on the island. It is essential to bring your own drinking water, food, and trash bags to carry everything back with you. Additionally, certain areas of the island are private property of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries; entry into these fenced-off areas is strictly prohibited. Smoking and swimming are not allowed on the island. Please check the final ferry departure time carefully to ensure you do not miss your return trip, as there are no other ways to leave the island unless using a chartered boat.