About Sarushima
Sarushima is the only uninhabited island in Tokyo Bay, located off the coast of Yokosuka City, Kanagawa Prefecture, and is a fascinating sightseeing spot that blends nature and history. Although its name may lead some to mistakenly believe that the island is inhabited by “monkeys,” it is in fact not inhabited by monkeys, but is a special place where people's lives and historical events have been accumulated since ancient times. Sarushima is characterized by the coexistence of natural beauty and military sites, making it a precious spot where visitors can enjoy sea leisure and historical exploration at the same time.
The main attractions of Sarushima are its lush green nature and the remnants of its history as a fortress. The entire island is covered with beautiful forests, and walking along the promenade, you will feel as if you are in a jungle. The remains of brick gun emplacements, tunnels, and ammunition depots built by the former Japanese army are all still standing, creating an extraordinary and adventurous sight. The brick tunnel in particular, with its mossy stone walls and greenery, is a popular photogenic spot where the beauty of nature and artifice are woven together. This fusion of historical remains and natural scenery is truly the unique charm of Sarushima.
Sarushima is also rich in outdoor activities. In particular, leisure activities such as swimming, barbecuing, and fishing attract many tourists during the summer. Sarushima's beaches are one of the few places in Tokyo Bay where you can swim, thanks to the clear water, despite its proximity to the city. Barbecue facilities are available on the beach, and visitors can enjoy outdoor cooking with family and friends while enjoying the blue ocean and beautiful scenery. It is also known as a fishing spot, and is popular among anglers as they can catch fish such as horse mackerel, mackerel, and mebaru.
Another recommended way to spend time on Sarushima is hiking. There is a walking trail that circles the island in about one hour, allowing visitors to walk through nature while visiting historical remains. Along the trail, there are spots with good views and information boards where visitors can learn about the island's history, allowing them to experience the charm of Sarushima while taking a leisurely stroll. From the island's high point, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Tokyo Bay, and if the weather is fine, you can even see Mount Fuji and the mountains of the Boso Peninsula. Especially at dusk, you can enjoy a beautiful sunset when the sky and sea turn orange, and the entire island is enveloped in a romantic atmosphere.
To mention some of the historical attractions of Sarushima, the island once played an important role as a fortress island in Japan. From the Meiji period to the Showa period, the island functioned as a fortress to defend the Tokyo metropolitan area, and the remains of military facilities from that time still remain, including brick turrets and barracks built using a technique known as French piling. These remains have a unique atmosphere, like a movie set, and are a sight to behold for those interested in the history of war and modern architecture. As you stroll around the island, you can feel the remnants of the former military facilities and think about the lives of the people of that time and the history of war.
Combining nature, history, and the outdoors, Sarushima is the perfect spot for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy extraordinary scenery. It is easily accessible from the center of Yokosuka, making it ideal for a day trip. Another attraction is the beauty of nature, which takes on a different look each season: cherry blossoms and fresh greenery in the spring, ocean activities in the summer, and autumn leaves in the fall.
Sarushima is a place where visitors can feel the romance of history while being surrounded by nature, and is a tourist destination that offers visitors a special and unforgettable time. Why not leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind and enjoy the tranquility and beauty of an uninhabited island while enjoying outdoor leisure activities and historical exploration to the fullest!