Hashima to Otsu

Hashima Island and Otsu

Hashima Island, also known as Battleship Island, is a small island located about 15 kilometers from the coast of Nagasaki, Japan. The island was once a thriving coal mining community, but it was abandoned in 1974 due to the depletion of the coal reserves. Today, the island is a popular tourist destination, and it is known for its unique and eerie atmosphere.

Otsu is a city located on the shores of Lake Biwa, the largest lake in Japan. The city is home to a number of historical and cultural attractions, including the Otsu Castle and the Miidera Temple. Otsu is also a popular destination for hikers and cyclists, and it offers a variety of scenic trails and bike paths.

Language

The official language of Japan is Japanese. However, English is widely spoken in tourist areas, and many signs and menus are available in both languages.

Currency

The official currency of Japan is the Japanese yen (JPY). Credit cards are widely accepted in Japan, but it is always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases.

Distance

Hashima Island is located about 15 kilometers from the coast of Nagasaki. Otsu is located about 10 kilometers from the city of Kyoto.

How to Reach

There are a number of ways to reach Hashima Island and Otsu.

• Hashima Island: The only way to reach Hashima Island is by boat. There are a number of tour operators that offer boat tours to the island. The tours typically depart from Nagasaki Port and take about 30 minutes.
• Otsu: Otsu can be reached by train or bus. The JR Tokaido Line runs between Kyoto and Otsu, and the trip takes about 10 minutes. There are also a number of express buses that run between Kyoto and Otsu.

Expenses

The cost of visiting Hashima Island and Otsu will vary depending on your travel style and the time of year you visit. However, here are some general estimates:

• Hashima Island: The cost of a boat tour to Hashima Island is typically around 4,000 yen per person. The tour includes admission to the island and a guided tour.
• Otsu: The cost of a train ticket from Kyoto to Otsu is around 500 yen per person. The cost of a bus ticket is around 300 yen per person.

Best time to go

The best time to visit Hashima Island and Otsu is during the spring or fall, when the weather is mild. The summer months can be hot and humid, and the winter months can be cold and snowy.

What to Eat

There are a number of great places to eat in Hashima Island and Otsu.

• Hashima Island: There are a few restaurants on Hashima Island, but the most popular option is to bring your own packed lunch.
• Otsu: Otsu is home to a number of excellent restaurants, serving a variety of Japanese and international cuisine. Some of the most popular dishes include:
• Otsu nabe: A hot pot dish made with beef, vegetables, and tofu.
• Sanbaizu: A type of sushi made with mackerel and vinegar.
• Biwa trout: A type of fish that is found in Lake Biwa.

Where to Go

There are a number of things to see and do in Hashima Island and Otsu.

• Hashima Island: The main attraction on Hashima Island is the abandoned coal mining facilities. Visitors can explore the island and learn about its history. There is also a museum on the island that tells the story of the island's former residents.
• Otsu: Otsu is home to a number of historical and cultural attractions, including:
• Otsu Castle: A castle built in the 16th century. The castle is now a museum and it offers great views of the city and Lake Biwa.
• Miidera Temple: A Buddhist temple founded in the 7th century. The temple is home to a number of important cultural artifacts, including a statue of the Buddha that is said to have been carved by Prince Shotoku.
• Biwako Valley: A scenic valley located on the shores of Lake Biwa. The valley is home to a number of hiking trails and bike paths.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about Hashima Island and Otsu:

• Is it possible to stay overnight on Hashima Island? No, overnight stays are not permitted on Hashima Island.
• Are there any restrictions on visiting Hashima Island? Yes, visitors are not allowed to enter certain areas of the island, including the abandoned coal mining facilities.
• Is Otsu a good place to stay for a short trip? Yes, Otsu is a good place to stay for a short trip. The city is home to a number of historical and cultural attractions, and it is also a convenient base for exploring the surrounding area.