Things To Do
in Tsushima
Tsushima is a beautiful island located in the Tsushima Strait between Japan and Korea. Its picturesque landscapes feature rugged coastlines, lush mountains, and serene beaches. The island is known for its rich history, including its role as a strategic location for trade and diplomacy between Japan and Korea.
Visitors can explore historic sites, traditional villages, and enjoy delicious seafood cuisine while taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding sea.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hike up to the scenic Mount Eboshidake, where stunning views of the island await. Don’t forget to take lots of pictures and enjoy the fresh morning air.
After your hike, head to Kanko Bridge for a leisurely stroll and admire the beautiful surroundings. Have lunch at a local eatery serving fresh seafood to fuel your afternoon adventures.
As the sun sets, visit the Tsushima Municipal Museum to learn about the island's rich history. Enjoy dinner at a local izakaya, soaking in the warm atmosphere and delightful flavors.
Spend your morning at the pristine T地方 Beach, where the golden sands and gentle waves create the perfect relaxation spot. Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters to refresh yourself.
Indulge in a beachside picnic with local snacks and refreshments. Afterward, explore the nearby coastline with a kayak rental to experience the beauty from the water.
Catch the beautiful sunset from the beach, painting the sky with vibrant colors. Opt for a dinner at a seaside restaurant and enjoy fresh seafood while listening to the gentle waves.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural history and heritage, including historical sites like the Tsushima Island's temples and shrines.
- Stunning natural landscapes, including beautiful beaches, forests, and mountains, perfect for outdoor activities.
- Vibrant local culture with unique festivals, traditions, and delicious regional cuisine.
- Strategic location close to Korea, making it an interesting point for cultural exchange and tourism.
- Limited access to mainland Japan, which can make travel more challenging and less convenient.
- Potential isolation from larger urban centers, leading to fewer amenities and services.
- Aging population and declining youth demographics, which may impact the local economy and community vitality.
- Natural disasters such as typhoons and earthquakes may pose risks to residents and infrastructure.
Best Activities in Tsushima
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic trails and lush surroundings while hiking in Tsushima, a great way to enjoy the island's natural beauty.
Enjoy the picturesque landscapes and coastal views by cycling around Tsushima, a popular outdoor activity for visitors.
Relax on the beautiful beaches of Tsushima, indulge in water sports, or simply soak up the sun for a perfect outdoor experience.
Tours
Uncover the best of Tsushima with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Tsushima
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers sweeping panoramic views of Tsushima and the surrounding sea.
Features picturesque trails and viewpoints for capturing the natural beauty of Tsushima.
Provides stunning vistas of the island and its rugged coastline.
Food in Tsushima
Tsushima Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A unique style of sushi using locally caught seafood, including squid, mackerel, and shrimp, served on a bed of Tsushima-grown rice. Try at Tsushima's seafood restaurants like Sushidokoro Yuusen.
Must-Try!
Thick and chewy udon noodles prepared in a savory broth, often topped with tempura or local vegetables. Visit Udon Shop Miyabi for an authentic taste.
Savor the rich flavors of Tsushima beef, known for its tender texture and fine marbling. Enjoy a meal at Yakiniku Yamate or Tsutsujiya, renowned for their grilled beef dishes.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Tsushima better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the vibrant Tsushima Fish Market to sample an array of freshly caught seafood and local delicacies like grilled squid and fish cakes.
Discover a delightful assortment of street food such as yakitori skewers, takoyaki, and taiyaki at the Tsushima Night Market, a must-visit for food enthusiasts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Tsushima, it is important to show respect for elders by using polite language and gestures, and by deferring to their opinions and decisions.
It is customary to maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor in public spaces, such as temples, shrines, and traditional tea houses.
Before entering a traditional Japanese home or certain public establishments, it is polite to remove your shoes at the entrance.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Tsushima with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Tsushima
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Tsushima, Japan. In fact, it is generally considered rude to tip in most situations. Good service is expected as part of the overall experience, and tipping may be perceived as insulting.
In Tsushima, Japan, cash is the most commonly used form of payment, and many places do not accept credit cards. It's important to carry enough cash when traveling in Tsushima. However, major hotels and some larger establishments in tourist areas may accept credit cards.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Tsushima.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Tsushima is in spring (March to May) when cherry blossoms bloom and the weather is comfortable.
Summer (June to August) is also a good time to visit for warm weather and outdoor activities, but it can be humid.
Autumn (September to November) is another popular time to visit with mild weather and beautiful fall foliage.
Winter (December to February) is the least popular time due to cold temperatures, but it can be a peaceful and serene experience.
Tsushima at Night
Hiking in Tsushima
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail through the Tsushima Wildlife Conservation Center, offering stunning views of the surrounding nature and opportunities to see local wildlife.
This trail provides access to the beautiful Kankakei Gorge with panoramic views and lush greenery, perfect for hiking enthusiasts.
A challenging hike leading to the summit of Mikado Mountain, providing breathtaking views of the island and the sea.
A coastal trail that offers picturesque views of the ocean and various unique rock formations along the east coast of Tsushima.
This trail takes you around Nakashima Island, where you can explore serene landscapes and enjoy a peaceful hiking experience.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Tsushima through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Tsushima by plane.
Fukuoka Airport is the closest major international airport to Tsushima, located approximately 117 km away. It serves as a gateway to Kyushu and offers a range of international and domestic flights.
Nagasaki Airport is an international airport located about 145 km from Tsushima. It connects travelers to various international destinations and serves as a key hub for flights in and out of Nagasaki Prefecture.
Kitakyushu Airport, situated around 150 km from Tsushima, is an international airport that provides access to several domestic and a few international routes, serving the Kitakyushu area.
Hiroshima Airport is located approximately 195 km from Tsushima. It serves as an international gateway to the Chugoku region with flights to various destinations in Asia and beyond.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The primary demographic group in Tsushima, comprising the vast majority of the population, predominantly of ethnic Japanese descent.
A notable minority group, particularly due to Tsushima's historical proximity to Korea, with some residents claiming Korean heritage.
A small community of Chinese residents and expatriates, contributing to the cultural diversity of the island.
Includes smaller communities from other Asian countries, such as the Philippines and Vietnam, engaged in various occupations.
Includes temporary laborers and international students from various countries involved in local industries and education.
The Soul of Tsushima
Discover the essence of Tsushima through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is one of the most popular sports in Tsushima, with many local teams and a strong community following.
Soccer has gained popularity in recent years, with youth leagues and local clubs actively promoting the sport.
Traditional martial arts such as Judo and Kendo are practiced widely, reflecting Japan's rich cultural heritage.
Given Tsushima's coastal location, fishing is both a popular pastime and a sport, with various competitions held.
Running events and marathons are organized, attracting both locals and visitors to participate.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tsushima.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Tsushima's cuisine predominantly focuses on seafood and meat, some restaurants offer vegetarian sushi rolls, vegetable tempura, and tofu-based dishes. It's advisable to communicate dietary requirements clearly at dining establishments.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can opt for rice-based dishes like sushi and sashimi, and inquire about gluten-free soy sauce when dining out. Understanding basic Japanese phrases related to gluten-free preferences can be helpful.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Tsushima with these cultural adventures.