Nagasaki Day Trip to Iojima Island: 5 Scenic Places to Visit

Iojima Island: Perfect for a Day of Exploration in Nagasaki

Magome Catholic Church. Photo by Pixta

Iojima Island, also known as Oki-no-shima among locals, is a tranquil resort paradise accessible from Nagasaki City by both a 20-minute ferry and a mainland bridge.

Once a prosperous coal-mining town, the island has reinvented itself as a premier leisure destination.

Today, it is home to i+Land nagasaki, an expansive entertainment resort featuring luxury accommodations, natural hot spring spas, and the Costa del Sol swimming beach.

Beyond its modern amenities and vibrant night-illumination walks, the island holds deep history, symbolized by the striking, white-walled Magome Catholic Church overlooking the East China Sea.

Discover great places to visit in Iojima, perfect for those who seek scenic ocean views and relaxation.

• Table of Contents
• 1. Iojima Lighthouse: A 150-Year Legacy
• 2. Misaki Cafe: Come for the Sunset Views
• 3. Magome Church: From Hidden Chapel to Cultural Treasure
• 4. Ark Land Spa: Kyushu’s Ultimate Wellness Escape
• 5. MINATO CAFE: For Leisurely Moments in the Morning Sun

1. Iojima Lighthouse: A 150-Year Legacy

Picture courtesy of Nagasaki Prefectural Tourism Federation

The Iojima Lighthouse is one of eight lighthouses established under the 1866 Edo Treaty. First lit in 1871, it holds the distinction of being Japan’s first hexagonal iron lighthouse.

Although the structure was damaged by the Nagasaki atomic bombing and rebuilt as a square concrete tower, its original hexagonal design was lovingly restored in 2003.

Despite weathering many storms over its 150-year history, the lighthouse's original semi-circular roof remains intact today.

Not far from the lighthouse is the charming Misaki Cafe, where you can stop in for a break when you’re tired.

Iojima Lighthouse

1-3240 Iojimacho, Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture 851-1201

Iojima Lighthouse is Japan's first Western-style hexagonal iron lighthouse, located at the northern tip of Iojima Island, and was first lit in 1871. It continues to watch over the entrance to Nagasaki Port, and although it is now unmanned, it has been restored to its original hexagonal shape. The view from the slope leading to the lighthouse is particularly spectacular, and it is known as a scenic spot with a beautiful contrast between the blue sea and the white lighthouse. There is also a cafe nearby where you can spend some relaxing time. (Photo by AC)

2. Misaki Cafe: Come for the Sunset Views

Located near the historic lighthouse, Misaki Cafe is Iojima’s premier destination for watching the sunset.

Because the café closes right as the sun dips below the horizon, its operating hours change throughout the year.

It’s the perfect spot to sip freshly brewed Japanese tea while taking in panoramic views of the ocean and the lighthouse.

Misaki Cafe

1 Iojimacho, Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture 851-1201

3. Magome Church: From Hidden Chapel to Cultural Treasure

Like many of Nagasaki’s small islands, Iojima served as a refuge for Christians during Japan's era of religious prohibition, owing to its remote and isolated location.

It is home to Magome Church, which began humbly as Shiiyama Chapel—a small, tile-roofed wooden sanctuary built by the believers themselves.

Later, a priest redesigned the chapel into the striking, Gothic-style Magome Church we see today. Though severely damaged by typhoons in 1927 and 1930, it was rebuilt in 1931 and has since been designated a Registered Tangible Cultural Property of Japan.

Today, Magome Church remains an active place of worship for weddings and funerals, while welcoming public visitors between services.

Magome Church

2-617 Iojimacho, Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture 851-1201

4. Ark Land Spa: Kyushu’s Ultimate Wellness Escape

Picture courtesy of i+Land nagasaki

As part of the i+Land nagasaki resort, Ark Land Spa is the largest hot spring and spa theme park in Kyushu.

It offers a massive variety of wellness experiences, including three relaxing rock baths, the YuYu Spa—which features natural waters drawn from its own hot spring—and a therapeutic sauna infused with over 20 Thai herbs.

Best of all, guests can enjoy the massive, swimsuit-friendly spa park all year round.

Picture courtesy of i+Land nagasaki

Fed by natural spring water rising from 1,180 meters underground, the large bath features both open-air and indoor soaking areas.

Whether you are feeling the crisp sea breeze beneath the open sky or quietly admiring the serene garden views, the experience is deeply restorative. A weekend getaway here will fly by—even a two-day, one-night stay feels far too short!

Picture courtesy of i+Land nagasaki

Ark Land Spa also features a dedicated reading lounge, allowing you to unwind and lose yourself in a book after a relaxing soak.

i+Land nagasaki

1-3277-7 Iojimacho, Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture, 851-1201, Japa...

5. MINATO CAFE: For Leisurely Moments in the Morning Sun

Located in the heart of Iojima, MINATO CAFE is the perfect place to pause and recharge after a morning walk or bike ride.

While Misaki Cafe is the ultimate destination for sunset, MINATO CAFE is at its best in the early hours.

Here, you can select your favorite coffee beans, watch them being freshly ground, and enjoy a premium hand-poured brew while basking in the morning sun and gazing out at the sea.

Enjoy Exploring Iojima

Located just 30 minutes from the heart of Nagasaki, Iojima offers a quick and effortless escape.

With a wide range of activities across the island—from high-energy adventures to deep relaxation—everyone can find their perfect way to unwind surrounded by stunning coastal scenery.

Main image by Pixta