Nestled between the Korean Peninsula and Kyushu, Tsushima is an island where history and nature come together.
Once a vital gateway for exchange with the continent, the island is dotted with historical landmarks — castle ruins, ancient shrines, and more — at every turn.
Tsushima Yamaneko Airport and Izuhara Port both offer easy access to the island. To explore it fully, however, a rental car is highly recommended.
Bus services are limited, and with the island stretching 82 kilometers from north to south, getting around by public transport alone simply isn't practical.
Rent a car and discover Tsushima at your own pace, on your own schedule.
Search for rental cars at Tsushima Airport / Izuhara Port
Sightseeing Spots
≪Southern Area≫
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① Banshoin Temple
The family temple of the So clan, lords of the Tsushima domain. A solemn approach lined with centuries-old cedar trees leads to the mausoleums of successive lords. A must-visit first stop for anyone seeking to feel the full weight of Tsushima's history. Tsushima Airport: approx. 35 min. / Izuhara Port: approx. 5 min.
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② Watatsumi Shrine
An ancient shrine steeped in the legend of the Dragon Palace, symbolized by two torii gates standing in the sea. At low tide, you can walk right up to the gates. The mystical scenery nestled in the inlet of Aso Bay is arguably the most beloved sight on Tsushima. Tsushima Airport: approx. 40 min. / Izuhara Port: approx. 50 min.
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③ Eboshidake Observatory
One of Tsushima's finest viewpoints, offering a sweeping 360-degree panorama of Aso Bay's deeply indented coastline. On clear days, the mountains of Korea are visible on the horizon. Conveniently located just a 5-minute drive from Watatsumi Shrine — perfect to visit as a pair. Tsushima Airport: approx. 50 min. / Izuhara Port: approx. 60 min.
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④ Kaneda Castle Ruins
An ancient mountain fortress built in the 7th century. Stone walls still stand on the mountain overlooking Aso Bay, and the site is designated as a Special Historic Site of Japan. Walk the well-maintained trekking course and immerse yourself in ancient history. Tsushima Airport: approx. 20 min. / Izuhara Port: approx. 25 min.
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⑤ Manzeki Bridge
A bridge spanning an artificial channel excavated by the Imperial Japanese Navy during the Meiji era. At low tide, swirling tidal currents create a mesmerizing spectacle — a one-of-a-kind scenic stop steeped in history that could only be found on Tsushima. Tsushima Airport: approx. 13 min. / Izuhara Port: approx. 20 min.
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⑥ Tsushima Wildlife Conservation Center
A facility where you can see the endangered Tsushima leopard cat up close. Learn about the unique flora and fauna native to Tsushima. An unmissable stop for nature lovers of all ages. Tsushima Airport: approx. 15 min. / Izuhara Port: approx. 35 min.
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⑦ Mt. Shiratake
Tsushima's iconic twin-peaked mountain. Well-maintained trails lead to a summit offering sweeping views of the island's nature and surrounding sea. A rewarding challenge for hiking enthusiasts. Tsushima Airport: approx. 30 min. / Izuhara Port: approx. 40 min.
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⑧ Tsushima Museum
Opened in 2022, Tsushima Museum is the island's only comprehensive museum. With exhibits covering artifacts from Kaneda Castle Ruins alongside Tsushima's nature and culture, it's the ideal starting point for understanding the island — and a great option on rainy days. Tsushima Airport: approx. 35 min. / Izuhara Port: approx. 5 min.
≪Northern Area≫
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⑨ Miuda Beach
A white-sand beach selected as one of Japan's Top 100 Beaches. The water shimmers emerald green in the sunlight, boasting some of the finest clarity on Tsushima. A must-visit coastal gem when exploring the north. Tsushima Airport: approx. 1 hr. 30 min. / Izuhara Port: approx. 1 hr. 50 min.
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⑩ Korea Observatory
A viewpoint unique to this border island — on clear days, the skyline of Busan is visible to the naked eye. The rare thrill of glimpsing a foreign country while still in Japan is an experience only Tsushima can offer. Tsushima Airport: approx. 1 hr. 30 min. / Izuhara Port: approx. 1 hr. 50 min.
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⑪ Waniura Fringe Tree Grove
A nationally designated natural monument. Each year from April to May, snow-white blossoms blanket the grove against the backdrop of the Korea Strait, creating an ethereal landscape. Well worth a visit during the flowering season. Tsushima Airport: approx. 1 hr. 40 min. / Izuhara Port: approx. 2 hrs.
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⑫ Kaijin Shrine
The oldest and most prestigious shrine on Tsushima. Conveniently located near Hitakatsu Port, it makes a perfect final stop on a northern tour. Its deep history and serene atmosphere linger with you long after you leave. Tsushima Airport: approx. 1 hr. 40 min. / Izuhara Port: approx. 2 hrs.