Five special experiences to try in Nagasaki's Goto Islands: gourmet food, accommodation, and activities
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The Goto Islands, located at the westernmost tip of Kyushu, are known for their beautiful seas and history. We will introduce must-see travel information, including sightseeing spots, access, and souvenirs.
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Onkochishin operates a wide variety of facilities, from casual to ultra-luxury, from long-established inns to newly built hotels, and from urban areas to remote islands. What they all have in common is their unparalleled individuality. We listen closely to the memories of each place and create unique, custom-made accommodation concepts.
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Table of Contents
- What is the Goto Islands?
- How to get to the Goto Islands
- How to get to each spot from Fukue Port and Goto Airport
- Activities in the Goto Islands
- Lodging in the Goto Islands
- Gourmet food in the Goto Islands
- Climate and Clothing in the Goto Islands
What is the Goto Islands?
The Goto Islands are a fascinating group of islands where nature and history blend together, characterized by the cobalt blue sea and white sand beaches that stretch to the southwest. There are various attractions that attract visitors, such as fishing and marine sports that can be enjoyed throughout the year, and the World Heritage Site "Hidden Christian Sites in the Nagasaki Region," which tells the history of Christianity.
How to get to the Goto Islands
If you are coming to Goto by plane
It takes about 40 minutes by plane from Nagasaki Airport or Fukuoka Airport to Fukue Airport (Goto Tsubaki Airport).
If you are coming to Goto by boat
It takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to get from Nagasaki Port to Fukue Port by high-speed jetfoil ferry.
How to get to each spot from Fukue Port and Goto Airport
It is convenient to rent a car from Fukue Port or Goto Airport. Public transportation is also available, but the best way to get around the island is by car. The main tourist spots are close to each other, so you can get around efficiently.
Activities in the Goto Islands
Tsubaki Distillery Tour
Camellia oil is one of the specialties of the Goto Islands. At the Tsubaki Distillery, you can observe the process of extracting oil from camellia flowers and fruits, learning about the traditional manufacturing method and the rich camellia fragrance of the product. After the tour, you can purchase camellia oil and related products that suit your taste, and take home the unique scent of Goto as a souvenir. Camellia oil is said to be good for beauty and health, and is popular with many tourists who visit.
Tasting experience at a local winery
The Goto Islands have been gaining attention in recent years as a wine producing region. At a local winery, you can sample wine made from grapes grown on Goto. The wine, which has a unique flavor nurtured by Goto's warm climate, is a special drink that you can't find anywhere else. A tour of the winery is also included, allowing you to experience the blessings of Goto's nature while enjoying the wine-making process and the scenery of the vineyards. After the tasting, you can purchase the wine you like and take it home, allowing you to enjoy the unique taste of Goto in the comfort of your own home.
Fishing Cruise
The sea of the Goto Islands is known as a great spot for fishing. On a fishing cruise, you can board a special boat and enjoy fishing with local fishermen. The attraction is the luxurious experience of being able to cook and eat freshly caught fish on the spot. Even if you are a beginner at fishing, you can enjoy it with peace of mind, as local guides will kindly support you. You can spend a luxurious time tasting fresh fish while enjoying your time on the sea.
Ocean View Golf
The Goto Islands are also home to beautiful golf courses with panoramic views of the ocean. In particular, at places like the Goto Country Club, you can enjoy the ocean views as you play golf, and you're sure to feel relaxed by the spectacular views that unfold as you play. On a sunny day, playing golf while gazing at the islands floating in the distance is a luxurious experience. For golf lovers, it's a great opportunity to enjoy the sport while taking in the nature of Goto.
Lodging in the Goto Islands
Goto Retreat Ray is one of the most luxurious accommodations in the Goto Islands. All rooms have ocean views, allowing you to spend a special time feeling the tranquility of the island. The restaurant serves gourmet food made with locally produced ingredients, making your stay in Goto even more memorable.
Gourmet food in the Goto Islands
Goto udon
One of the Goto Islands' signature local dishes is Goto Udon. It is characterized by thin, chewy noodles, and is served with a soup made from fresh local fish and seafood. The Goto Udon Flying Fish Soup is particularly delicious, and the broth made from flying fish brings out a deep umami flavor. It is a popular Goto home-cooked dish, and can be enjoyed at local eateries and restaurants.
Seafood cuisine in the Goto Islands
The seas of the Goto Islands are known as rich fishing grounds, and are rich in fresh seafood. Fish caught off the islands can be enjoyed as sashimi or sushi, or cooked in a variety of ways, such as simmered, grilled, or as tempura. Horse mackerel, mackerel, and Goto's specialty threadfin bream are particularly popular. In the fishing towns on the islands, seafood bowls made with fresh, locally caught seafood are also delicious.
Goto Islands natural salt and its cuisine
The Goto Islands are also famous for producing natural salt. Goto Salt in particular is made by naturally drying seawater, and is rich in minerals and has a strong umami flavor. Local dishes made with Goto salt include salt-grilled foods, salt ramen, and salt rice balls. Although simple, many of the dishes have a strong salty flavor, which is one of Goto's charms.
Goto beef
The Goto Islands are also well-known for their beef. "Goto beef" comes from locally raised cattle and is characterized by its tenderness and flavor. Steaks, yakiniku, and shabu-shabu made with Goto beef are delicious, and the quality of the meat is particularly outstanding. You can enjoy luxurious dishes made with Goto beef at local restaurants and izakayas.
Climate and Clothing in the Goto Islands
The Goto Islands are characterized by a warm climate throughout the year. You can comfortably spend the summer in light clothing, but in winter the sea breeze can be cold, so it's a good idea to bring a thick coat and other cold weather gear. In particular, when planning outdoor activities such as church tours or fishing, be sure to dress appropriately for the season.
The Goto Islands are a special destination where you can enjoy rich nature, history, and exquisite cuisine. Why not visit the Goto Islands on your next holiday and seek out an extraordinary experience?
Onkochishin operates a wide variety of facilities, from casual to ultra-luxury, from long-established inns to newly built hotels, and from urban areas to remote islands. What they all have in common is their unparalleled individuality. We listen closely to the memories of each place and create unique, custom-made accommodation concepts.
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