Sensuijima Island

In short

Sensuijima Island floats directly in front of Tomonoura, which flourished as a port for awaiting favorable tides, and visitors can reach it in approximately five minutes by municipal ferry from the Tomo ferry terminal. Its name is said to derive from being an island "so beautiful that even a hermit would become intoxicated." Tomo Park, which includes Sensuijima Island, is designated a national Place of Scenic Beauty.

• ​Coastal Rocks and Sea Caves​​: Along the southern coast of the island are "Goshiki-iwa" (Five-Colored Rocks), where rock faces in five shades stretch for more than 200 meters, and sea caves hollowed out by the waves
• ​Views from the Island's Summits​​: Hiking trails lead up to the island's three summits, and from the peaks you can overlook the surrounding sea and islands, as well as the port town of Tomonoura
• ​A Short Ferry Ride​​: Although it is a short voyage of only about five minutes, it offers a distinct experience, taking in views of the port of Tomonoura and the island from out on the water

History and Highlights

​Sensuijima Island​ is an island floating directly in front of Tomonoura, which flourished as a port for awaiting favorable tides. Visitors can reach the island in approximately five minutes by boarding a municipal ferry from the Tomo ferry terminal. Legend has it that hermits once lived here, and its name is said to derive from being an island "so beautiful that even a hermit would become intoxicated."

The island is composed of rocks formed by intense volcanic activity more than 90 million years ago. Its distinctive geological features, such as sea caves carved by the waves and a rock stratum known as the Sensui Formation, have been designated a Natural Monument of Hiroshima Prefecture. In addition, Tomo Park, which includes Sensuijima Island, is designated a national Place of Scenic Beauty due to its striking coastline and scenic island views. The island is also part of Setonaikai National Park. Setonaikai National Park was designated in 1934 as one of Japan's first national parks, alongside Unzen and Kirishima.

Viewing and Experience Highlights

• ​Coastal Rocks and Sea Caves​​: Along the southern coast of the island, you can see "Goshiki-iwa" (Five-Colored Rocks), where rock faces in five shades—blue, red, yellow, white, and black—stretch for more than 200 meters, as well as sea caves hollowed out by the waves, allowing you to observe up close the landforms carved over countless years.
• ​Views from the Island's Summits​​: Hiking trails lead up to the island's three summits. From the peaks, you can overlook the surrounding sea and islands, as well as Tomonoura, a port town situated on the eastern shore of the Numakuma Peninsula.
• ​A Short Ferry Ride​​: Sensuijima Island is reached from Tomonoura by municipal ferry. Although it is a short voyage of only about five minutes, it offers a distinct and pleasant experience, taking in views of the port of Tomonoura and the island from out on the water.

Tips for Exploring

Vehicles cannot be brought onto the island, so exploration must be done on foot. Well-maintained hiking trails are available on the island, allowing you to choose a route suited to your available time and physical fitness. Because both the mountain paths and coastal trails have undulating terrain, please visit wearing comfortable walking shoes and clothing that allows easy movement. Coastal paths may occasionally be closed due to high waves or rockfalls, so please follow local guidance. Details regarding the townscape of Tomonoura, the Joyato Stone Lantern, and Fukuzen-ji Temple, which overlooks Sensuijima Island, are introduced on their respective spot pages.