Ojika is an island destination: the city comprises 17 islands, six of which are inhabited. All the islands in Ojika City are designated as part of Saikai National Park. Specific places and connections can help you plan your trip—from the pine avenue on Ojika Island to the boat ride to Nozaki Island.
Pine Avenue and Volcanic Landscape
Hime no Matsubara is located in the center of Ojika Island and is a pine avenue about 400 to 500 meters long. It has been included both in the selection of Japan’s 100 most beautiful pine groves and in the new selection of Japan’s 100 most beautiful tree-lined streets. Along the avenue are an anchor stone and Shishiki Shrine. The length is approximate; the two selections recognize different aspects of the avenue and its trees.
Goryodaki offers a different kind of scenery: this scenic spot was formed when seawater eroded a volcanic crater. It is about a ten-minute drive from the port. These offer two distinct points of interest for orientation: the pine avenue in the center of Ojika Island and a volcanic landscape shaped by seawater. The estimated travel time to Goryodaki refers to travel by car.
Getting There and Getting Around
Ojika can be reached from Sasebo by high-speed boat in as little as 90 minutes. Check the timetable before setting out so you can plan your arrival around the departures. Bicycle rentals are available at the Ojika Island Tourism counter in the Ojika ferry terminal. The counter is open from 6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.; bicycles are available on a “first come, first served” basis.
You can travel by boat from Ojika Island to Nozaki Island. Check the latest departures before your trip. These are two different connections to consider when planning your journey: the high-speed boat from Sasebo to Ojika, and the boat from Ojika Island to Nozaki Island.
Water Activities
From April to October, beginners can head out to sea in a stable, beginner-friendly canoe after an instructor’s briefing. You may see small fish; birdsong and the wind are also among the experiences described. Advance booking is required for the canoe experience. The season and reservation are key planning considerations.
The boat ride to Nozaki Island is another way to spend time on the water while visiting an island. The canoe activity itself is the focus, whereas the boat ride takes you to another island. Check the latest departures for Nozaki; for canoeing, note the April-to-October season and the advance booking requirement.
History and Nature on Nozaki Island
In the 17th century, Nozaki Island was a refuge for the “Hidden Christians.” The island’s settlement site became part of the UNESCO World Heritage property “Hidden Christian Sites in the Nagasaki Region” in July 2018. More than 400 wild deer also live on Nozaki Island. By grazing on plant shoots, they help keep the island grassland. The stated number of animals may change.
Old Nokubi Church is also part of the history of Ojika City. Built in 1908, it was the first brick church designed and constructed by Yosuke Tetsukawa.
A Reservation-Based Local Experience
The Shibatsuke dumpling-making experience takes place in private homes and requires a reservation. Participants can choose between Ojika Main Island and ĹŚshima. If you plan to take part, allow for the reservation requirement and choose between the two islands listed. The dumpling-making experience complements the scenery and water activities with a glimpse of local food.
The Wider Context: Nagasaki Prefecture
The broader destination of Nagasaki Prefecture also provides context for the “Hidden Christian Sites in the Nagasaki Region.” The World Heritage property is partly located in Nagasaki Prefecture and comprises twelve components: ten villages, the remains of a castle, and a cathedral dating from the 17th to 19th centuries. This context places the history of the settlement site on Nozaki within the scope of the regional World Heritage property.
Discover more destinations: GotĹŤ, Nagasaki, ĹŚmura, Sasebo, Hasami, Hirado, Matsuura, Isahaya
For the broader travel guide: Nagasaki Prefecture.
