Amakusa Islands, Kumamoto Prefecture

The Amakusa Islands (天草諸島), located in the southwestern part of Kumamoto Prefecture (熊本県), are a scenic region where the beauty of over 120 large and small islands intertwines with a deep history of Christian culture. Connected to the Kyushu (九州) mainland by the "Amakusa Gokyo" (天草五橋, Amakusa Five Bridges), they are accessible by car and have recently gained attention as an easily visitable hidden gem resort. With emerald green seas, abundant nature, fresh seafood, and hot springs, the Amakusa Islands are packed with elements that captivate visitors.

This article provides detailed information, including history, geography, must-try activities, scenic spots, access methods, and the best seasons, to help you enjoy your stay in the Amakusa Islands more deeply.

1. What are the Amakusa Islands? Their History and Geography

The Amakusa Islands (天草諸島) are an archipelago spanning Kumamoto Prefecture (熊本県) and Kagoshima Prefecture (鹿児島県), bordered by the Ariake Sea (有明海) to the north, the Yatsushiro Sea (八代海, also known as Shiranui Sea, 不知火海) to the east and southeast, and the Amakusa-nada Sea (天草灘) of the East China Sea to the west and southwest. Also known as "Reishu" (苓州), they are characterized by beautiful, nature-rich islands, as the name suggests. The main islands are Shimoshima (下島), which at 574.01 square kilometers (221.6 sq miles) is the 8th largest island in Japan excluding the four main islands like Honshu, and Kamishima (上島). Other islands include Nagashima (長島), Oyanojima (大矢野島), Shishijima (獅子島), and Goshoura-jima (御所浦島).

Evidence suggests people lived here as far back as the Jomon period (縄文時代), and in the medieval era, local lords known as the Amakusa Goninshu (天草五人衆, Five Amakusa Families) held sway. Particularly famous is the Shimabara-Amakusa Rebellion (島原・天草一揆), which occurred in the early Edo period (江戸時代). In this region, where Christianity was actively propagated, farmers suffering from harsh taxes and Christian persecution rose up with Amakusa Shiro (天草四郎) as their commander-in-chief. Due to this historical background, the Amakusa Islands are also known as "the Islands of Christians," and many churches and related facilities are still scattered throughout the area today.

Through the Great Heisei Mergers (平成の大合併), the region is now consolidated into two cities and one town: Amakusa City (天草市), Kamiamakusa City (上天草市), and Reihoku Town (苓北町) in Amakusa District (天草郡). Amakusa City alone is a vast area, taking over an hour by car from the Hondo (本渡) district, where the city hall is located, to the southern Ushibuka (牛深) district, allowing visitors to enjoy different cultures and landscapes in each area.

2. Must-Try Activities in the Amakusa Islands

In the Amakusa Islands, you can experience a wide variety of activities that make the most of the beautiful natural surroundings.

2-1. Over 99% Encounter Rate! Wild Dolphin Watching

If you visit the Amakusa Islands, wild dolphin watching is an experience you absolutely must try. Approximately 200 wild Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins inhabit the waters off Goshoura Town (五和町), Amakusa City (天草市), and it's said that you have a high chance of encountering dolphins, over 99%, throughout the year. Watching dolphins swim and jump up close from the boat is sure to be a moving experience for both adults and children.

• Main Departure Point: Around Futae Fishing Port (二江漁港) in Goshoura Town (五和町), Amakusa City (天草市)
• Duration: Approximately 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes
• Estimated Price: Adults ¥3,000 - ¥4,000 (approx. $20-$27), Children ¥2,000 (approx. $13) (varies by tour company)
• Reservation: Advance booking is recommended.

2-2. Immerse Yourself in History and Culture at the World Heritage Site "Sakitsu Village"

Sakitsu Village (崎津集落), a small fishing village located in the southern part of the Amakusa Islands, is registered as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site as one of the