Where the East China Sea meets the sky in endless hues of blue, lies the breathtaking Gotō Archipelago. This enchanting collection of 140 wildly beautiful islands are Japan’s hidden paradise. Fukue Island is the largest and southernmost of the Gotō Islands and is home to the city of Gotō in the Nagasaki Prefecture.
Gotō offers travellers the opportunity to experience the unspoiled beauty of Japan’s natural landscapes, its rich Christian heritage, and the peaceful rhythm and warm embrace of the islands.
Gotō is home to many independent boutiques, cafes and restaurants. This tropical island is almost entirely self-sustainable, producing its own rice, wheat, water etc. McDonalds arrived on the island in recent years and barely lasted a month. This is testament to the strength of the small but fiercely spirited community of 30,000 that take great pride in their bountiful locally-sourced produce and businesses.
Gotō is easily accessible by ferry from Nagasaki, which offers a scenic journey through the sparkling waters of the East China Sea. Alternatively, quick flights are available to Fukue Island from Nagasaki and Fukuoka.
Mother Nature’s masterpiece is Gotō with its rugged coastlines that give way to immaculate champagne beaches that are overlooked by lush rolling emerald hills and dramatic volcanic landscapes. The turquoise waters are alive with vibrant coral reefs that attract snorkelers and divers from all over the world. Wildlife enthusiasts will be delighted to spot the sea turtles that nest along the shores and the trees that are filled with exotic rare birds.
The beauty of the Goto Islands is eternal, visit in the Spring to experience the powder pink sakura blossoms, or in summer for long days spent on the golden beaches or even in Autumn when the leaves turn golden and ruby and the air is crisp and perfect for hiking and exploring the lush forests filled with ancient trees, hidden waterfalls and local flora and fauna.
Stay
TAKASAKI STAY
Feel instantly at home at TAKASAKI STAY, which offers a one-of-a-kind geotourism experience in a stunning private rental beach house dotted along the shoreline of a sleepy seaside village. Bask in the glorious natural beauty of the island with the sound of birdsong and the waves caressing the golden shore of Takasaki Beach. Wander along the beach with your morning coffee and let the soothing sound of the waves lull you into tranquility, there is no better way to start the day.
TAKASAKI STAY feels like a living artwork, from the moment you step through the large coral front door, you’re greeted by an interior that is as whimsical as it is sophisticated. The space is a masterpiece of design, where every detail has been carefully curated.
Striking features include a trio of oversized, shell-like golden lampshades suspended above, setting an artistic tone reminiscent of an art deco gallery. The kitchen boasts a vibrant statement tile wall that evokes Picasso’s era of Cubism and was inspired by the geological formations of the island. Modern touches are abundant: all the electrics are state-of-the-art Twinbird products from Japan.
Every amenity has been thoughtfully considered—from hair straighteners and a selection of local Camellia face oils and creams to a luxurious shower and a bath, a smart toilet, and a double vanity sink with a Hollywood light-up mirror.
The upstairs platform, complete with a television, along with two semi-double beds. With 90% of the wood sourced locally and eco-friendly products like hair brushes and toothbrushes made with cornstarch, TAKASAKI STAY seamlessly marries contemporary design with sustainable living.
Inspired by a personal journey through adversity, the property was designed to offer comfort and accessibility for everyone. A stoma-accessible toilet ensures that every guest feels welcome.
Local artistic flair is woven throughout the home: plates crafted by local artists, Hasami ware cups, and cutlery from Seki all add a touch of regional authenticity. A line of uniform Hunter boots in rainbow hues await, a white VW Golf Car and four electric bicycles are on-site and invite you to explore the beautiful coastline with its contrast of cobalt blue sea and golden sand beaches studded with dramatic black rock formations created by volcanic activity at your own pace.
TAKASAKI STAY offers a wealth of unmatched amenities and experiences to ensure you have a luxurious and unforgettable visit. In the morning, bento boxes can be flown in by drone, after a day paddleboarding or clear-bottom kayaking at the beach you can arrange a massage in the comfort of the property from a local masseuse. In the evening, local gourmet French restaurant Bouquet Garni can prepare a bespoke three-course private dining experience at the property, complete with a complimentary drink.
At TAKASAKI STAY, art, nature, and modern comforts coalesce, rediscover the beauty of the natural world at your home in one of Japan’s most spectacular coastal regions.
Colorit Goto Islands
Perched along the pristine shoreline of Gotō, Colorit Goto Islands offers a luxury seaside retreat with unobstructed oceanfront views of crystal-clear blue waters and expansive white-sand beaches.
From the moment you arrive, you feel the warmth of the local staff who welcome you like family, their passion for Gotō and its heritage is palpable. They know the island like the back of their hands are always available with helpful tips and tricks.
Every detail of Colorit Goto Islands is thoughtfully designed to evoke the gentle flow of island time. Step into an atmosphere that feels both contemporary and deeply connected to its surroundings: vibrant pops of colour accent modern décor which bring the island’s unique spirit to life.
At the heart of the hotel is a spacious wooden deck that invites you to sip a cup of coffee or lose yourself in a good book, all while basking in the gentle caress of the sea breeze and a front-row seat to some of the most spectacular shows as the sun dips lazily below the horizon in the evening. There is also a large communal bath, featuring an semi-open-air design, that allows you to unwind with views of blue skies and the natural melody of crashing waves and chirping birds.
At Colorit Goto Islands, every meal is an opportunity to taste the soul of Gotō. Overlooking the ocean, the sweeping Brutalist architecture of Restaurant Shiro is a work of art in itself. Here, culinary worlds beautifully collide as the chef reimagines traditional Mexican dishes with fresh seafood, vibrant vegetables and legendary Gotō Beef which has been nurtured on mineral-rich pastures. Breakfast is a celebration of local flavours and craftsmanship, served as a traditional Japanese set meal, featuring ingredients hand-picked by the chef and presented in elegant cypress wooden boxes.
After dinner, retire to the roaring fire pit at the heart of the courtyard and marvel at the starlit sky. On clear nights, with an illuminating pearlescent moon glowing overhead, the Milky Way shines brilliantly, you may even spot a shooting star.
GOTO Retreat by Onko Chishin
Beyond a mystical geopark—said to have burst forth from a demon’s mouth 50,000 years ago—spreads a natural amphitheater where the sea and sky perform an eternal ballet. GOTO Retreat is a celebration of the mesmerising natural beauty and light of Gotō, this magnificent glass ocean-facing property embraces the captivating landscapes that envelope the property.
The scent of the tide, the whisper of the Gotō winds, and the expanse of an eternal sky weave together a narrative that takes your breath away with every glance. In every glimmer of light, a gentle shadow reminds you of the delicate balance of nature. After all, this is “an island of prayer, an inn of light.”
Each of the 26 uniquely designed rooms offers extraordinary ocean views and a private open-air bath with local Camellia amenities, allowing you to immerse yourself in the endless horizon. Imagine waking to a panoramic vista of blue, the gentle sea breeze elegantly carrying the sound of waves — an echo of nature’s beauty.
Gotō is revered in the fishing world for its bountiful, fresh seafood—available in abundance through every season. Isolated by nature, the islands also yield a rich variety of local agricultural treasures, these are honoured by Head Chef Yusuke Yamamoto with the Japanese Cuisine menu at Ray Dining, GOTO RETREAT’s extraordinary fine dining restaurant. Try the 7-Glasses Pairing Plan which has been carefully curated by the in-house sommelier, from locally brewed sake to the world’s most exquisite wines.
Restore harmony with your mind, body and soul at GOTO RETREAT’s Ray Spa, the best on the island. The spa has an extensive menu of body and facial therapies that are enriched with Gotō’s wild Camellia extracts and even the Blessing of Water, an invigorating Vichy shower treatment to boost your metabolism and circulation. The Ray Spa is a sanctuary that encourages you to embrace the light and give yourself grace with a little help from the natural magic of Gotō’s natural gifts.
Dine
Gotō is a culinary treasure trove, where every bite tells a story. At Shimashoku Gino, the essence of Italy comes alive with the finest imported premium Italian sodas, paired with pizza and pasta so exceptional they rival those found in Naples.
Tougarashi, housed in a beautifully renovated former nursery school, offers the island’s most extraordinary Cantonese cuisine. Indulge in a feast of fresh seafood, fried rice and noodle dishes.
And while the island is dotted with delightful local bakeries, iLe Bakery stands out as the crown jewel. This intimate eatery celebrates the artistry of local bakers, serving cloud-like cakes, delectably chewy buns filled with sumptuous sweet centers, and freshly baked bread that delights the senses.
See
Perched high amongst one of Gotō’s many scenic landscapes, the Gyoran Kannon Observation Deck offers sweeping panoramic views of the glorious Takahama beach, which stretches out in all its glory below. This stunning haven is Mother Nature at her very best and is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of Gotō.
Takahama Beach is famous throughout Japan but in fact, it is one of the most beautiful unspoiled beaches in the world. Framed by majestic mountains, it boasts crystal clear water and a perfectly flat shore of golden sand. Standing on the water’s edge with your toes in the water, facing the East China Sea is an ethereal and almost spiritual experience, it feels like looking out at the edge of the world.
For those seeking adventure, hike Mount Onidake, a volcano that hasn’t erupted for 18,000 years. Traverse paths strewn with wildflowers and you are rewarded with unrivalled views of the surrounding islands and the glittering sea.
When Mount Onidake erupted, lava flowed into the sea for 10 kilometres to form the most majestic lava coastline which is now engulfed in lush subtropical vegetation. From the observation deck, the Abunze Lava Coast can be admired in its full glory, you can also visit the Abunze Visitor Center to learn more about the local flora and fauna.
Another incredible mountain is the majestic, Takasakibana Cape, to the north of the port, stretches a steep cliff, and the plain on the top of the cliff commands a magnificent view of Hime-shima island and Kashiwa port nearby as well as Hisakajima island and islands of Kami-Goto in the distance. It is also a great place for hiking.
The Osezaki Lighthouse Observation Point also offers some of the most stunning coastal views on the island. To your left is South Korea and the other is China, a truly remarkable vista.
Experience
Gotō holds a fascinating and poignant place in Japanese history. Step into a realm where ancient faith and resilient community have flourished against all odds.
In the 17th century, Christianity was banned across Japan. Gotō became a sanctuary for Kakure Kirishitan (Hidden Christians) who fled to these remote lands to preserve their faith in secret.
Today, remnants of this clandestine faith are visible through beautifully preserved churches such as the Imochiura Church and Lourdes Grotto and UNESCO World Heritage sites. To delve deeper into this hidden past, visitors can follow the “Christian Pilgrimage Route,” which offers a spiritual and historical journey across the islands.
Gotō Tsubakien (Goto Camellia Forest Park) boasts a collection of nearly 259 camellia cultivars and around 2,800 trees. Its garden was honored as a Garden of Excellence by the International Camellia Society. In winter, the park transforms into a must-see spectacle as camellias burst into bloom, showcasing an array of varieties from across Japan.
Nizo Yamamoto, born on the Gotō Islands of Nagasaki, served as the animation art director for iconic Studio Ghibli films such as Castle in the Sky, Grave of the Fireflies and Princess Mononoke. The Nizo Yamamoto Art Museum is located in a renovated samurai residence originally built in 1863 during the Edo period.
It showcases a diverse collection of Yamamoto’s animation artwork, including his recent project, Goto Hyakkei (or “100 Sceneries of Goto”). A wonderful way to experience the spirit of Gotō.
Goto Retreat Ray
@okcs_gotoray
goto.by-onko-chishin.com
2877 Kamisakiyamacho, Goto, Nagasaki 853-0023, Japan
Colorit
@colorit
colorit.jp
546-2 Hamacho, Goto, Nagasaki 853-0026, Japan
Takasaki Stay
@takasakistay_goto
cwstays.jp
681-1, Miirakumachitake, Goto, Nagasaki, 853-0602, Japan
