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Chiringashima Island
A romantic island you can walk to via a sandy path that appears only at low tide.
A roughly 3-km-long uninhabited island floating in Kinko Bay, about 800 meters offshore from Cape Tara. From March to October, a sandy path known as the "Chiririn Road" appears during low tide, allowing visitors to walk to the island.
The island features walking trails and scenic viewpoints, offering tranquil nature walks. Because it temporarily connects to the mainland, it is affectionately called the "Path of Connection" or the "Island of Love," and is popular as a spiritual spot for romantic wishes. The round-trip walk across the sandbar takes about 40 minutes, so visiting on days with a large tidal range is recommended.
Note that there are no restrooms or water facilities on the island, and the sandbar can become extremely hot in summer. Bring water, a hat, or a sunshade when visiting. Swimming is discouraged due to strong tidal currents in the surrounding area.
Since sandbar appearance times vary, always check the official website before visiting to ensure access is possible.
Highlights
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An uninhabited island approximately 3 km in circumference, floating in Kinko Bay (Kagoshima Bay).
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A sandy path appears only during low tide from March to October, allowing visitors to walk across.
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Popular as an “island of romantic connection” because of its temporary link to the mainland.
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There are no toilets or water facilities on the island.
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As the sandbar’s appearance is unpredictable, be sure to check the official website before visiting.
Photos
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Viewing the island from Mount Kaimondake on the mainland side is also recommended during cherry blossom season.
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On days when the “Chiririn Road” appears, many tourists visit the area.
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It is one of the highlights within Kirishima-Kinkowan National Park.
Highlights
Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.
Q
Are foreign language brochures or information signs available?
The brochures are not exclusively for Chiringashima, but are comprehensive guides for Ibusuki City. They are available in English, Traditional Chinese, Simplified Chinese, Korean, Thai, and Vietnamese. Some signs include English, but not all signage is multilingual.
Q
Is free Wi-Fi available in the area?
No free Wi-Fi available.
Q
Are coin lockers available?
Not available.
Q
Are there restrooms available?
No, there are not.
Q
Are there any smoking areas?
Not available.
Reviews
Details
- Name in Japanese
- 知林ヶ島
- Postal Code
- 891-0311
- Address
- Nishikata, Ibusuki City, Kagoshima (near Ibusuki Eco-Campground)
- Telephone
- 0993-22-2111 (Ibusuki City Tourism Division)
- Closed
- Free to walk
- Business Hours
- The sandbar appears during low tide on days with spring or medium tides from March to October
- Admission
- Free
- Access
- 10 minutes by Kagoshima Kotsu bus from JR Ibusuki-Makurazaki Line Ibusuki Station; get off at “Eco-Campground Chiringashima Iriguchi” bus stop, then walk 5 minutes to the sandbar entrance
- Official Website
- Official Website (English)