🌅 Kujūkushima Islands | The Hidden Paradise of Nagasaki’s Coast
Off the coast of Sasebo City in Nagasaki Prefecture lies a breathtaking seascape —
the Kujūkushima Islands (九十九島, “Ninety-Nine Islands”), a cluster of over 200 small islands scattered across the tranquil blue waters of the Saikai Sea.
Despite the name “Kujūkushima” meaning “Ninety-Nine Islands,” there are actually 208 islands, each covered in deep green forests and surrounded by calm, glassy seas.
This archipelago is one of Japan’s most beautiful coastal panoramas — a mosaic of nature where sea, light, and land intertwine in perfect harmony.
🏝️ A National Park of Hidden Islands
Kujūkushima is part of the Saikai National Park, a protected area known for its pristine natural beauty and abundant marine life.
From any vantage point, you can see countless islands stretching endlessly into the horizon — each untouched and uninhabited, keeping their natural mystery intact.
This area is also famous as the setting for the opening scene of “The Last Samurai”, where its emerald islands dot the misty sea under the golden light of dawn.
🌅 Sunset from the Best Viewpoints
The most iconic spot to enjoy Kujūkushima’s beauty is from Tenkaihō Observatory, where the islands appear like jewels floating on the sea.
As the sun sets behind the islands, the entire horizon glows in shades of orange and purple — one of Japan’s most captivating sunset views.
Other viewpoints such as Ishidake Observatory and Yumihari-dake Observatory offer equally stunning scenes, each with a slightly different perspective of this endless island panorama.
🚢 Explore the Islands by Cruise
The best way to truly feel the magic of Kujūkushima is by taking a sightseeing cruise from Sasebo Port.
The boat weaves through the maze of islands, passing fishing boats, quiet coves, and untouched beaches.
You’ll see how the light dances on the water, shifting every minute — a moment of calm that feels like time itself has slowed.
Some cruises are timed for sunset departures, turning the journey into a moving painting of gold and shadow.
📸 Highlights & Experiences
Tenkaihō Observatory:
The most famous viewpoint — breathtaking sunset views over the islands.
Kujūkushima Pearl Sea Resort:
Cruise departures, aquarium, cafes, and sea kayaking experiences available here.
Yumiharidake Observatory:
Panoramic views of Sasebo Bay and the entire island chain.
Island Cruises:
Daily sightseeing and sunset cruises from Sasebo Port.
🗺️ Access & Basic Info
Name: Kujūkushima Islands (九十九島)
Location: Sasebo City, Nagasaki Prefecture, Japan
Type: Island archipelago / National park
Best Season: Year-round (sunsets in autumn and winter are especially stunning)
Access:
🚃 By train: JR Sasebo Station → 10 min by bus to Kujūkushima Pearl Sea Resort
🚗 By car: About 2 hours from Fukuoka City via Nishi-Kyushu Expressway
Official Info: Kujūkushima Pearl Sea Resort Official Website
✨ The Kujūkushima Islands are more than a view — they’re a quiet symphony of islands, sea, and sky.
From sunrise to dusk, the light shifts endlessly across the water, revealing a different masterpiece every moment.
When you stand at the observatory and gaze over the horizon, it feels like looking into infinity itself.
