Off the coast of Nagasaki in Southern Japan, the Gotō Islands are a treasure trove for both nature lovers and otaku alike. The island's lush green mountains and serene waters are accompanied by colorful foliage, of which the Tsubaki flower is noted for its red hues.
The Gotō Islands are accessible via a one-hour plane ride directly from Fukuoka Airport. We were surprised with a warm welcome from the island’s two popular mascots: Tsubaki Neko and Baramon-chan.
Let us explore the different anime locations and their connections to these beautiful islands!
The Birthplace of Ghibli Backgrounds
It comes to no surprise that the Gotō Islands serve as inspiration for many locations in anime. In fact, one of Studio Ghibli’s most famous background illustrators, Mr. Yamamoto Nizo, hails from Gotō. Fans of these hit movies from Princess Mononoke and Laputa Castle in the Sky are in for a treat, as the Gotō Islands also house a museum containing original illustrations by Mr. Yamamoto.
Mr. Yamamoto’s beautiful brush strokes graced many movies beyond Ghibli, as he was the art director for animated movies like The Girl Who Leapt Through Time (2006) and Perfect Blue (1997). In the movie Weathering With You (2019), Mr. Yamamoto was in charge of painting extremely beautiful
Growing up surrounded by such beautiful landscape, one would imagine that Mr. Yamamoto channeled his childhood growing up in Gotō as he painted these fantastical pieces. The museum is truly inspiring, and I cannot recommend it enough for Ghibli and art lovers alike.
Access Information Nizo Yamamoto Art Museum Address: 2 Chome-2-7 Bukeyashiki, Goto, Nagasaki 853-0017, Japan Opening Hours: 9 AM - 6 PM Website: https://www.discover-nagasaki.com/en/sightseeing/64487 |
The Colors Within
Recently, the Gotō Islands directly inspired many locations in the 2024 hit theatrical movie “The Colors Within” produced by the acclaimed studio Science SARU.
The story follows a trio of highschool students that bond through their love of music. Their base of activity is an abandoned church on one of the Gotō Islands, and it has an actual model you can visit!
Nagasaki has a historic connection with Christianity, and there are various churches around the island that are featured in many scenes of “The Colors Within”.
The church also featured a poster of "The Colors Within", highlighting its presence as an anime tourism spot.
The pier right in front of the church is where the three protagonists sat together, eating ice cream as they discussed the formation of their band. Standing in the same areas characters from anime have is definitely an eye-opening experience. Of note, there are many adorable cats around the island, and they are all well taken care of by the locals. The movie also had a lot of
Access Information Former Gorin Church Address: 2 Chome-2-7 Bukeyashiki, Goto, Nagasaki 853-0017, Japan Opening Hours: 9 AM - 5 PM Website: http://kyoukaigun.jp/en/ |
Exploring Barakamon
The Gotō Islands are also famously the location of the popular 2014 anime series Barakamon. The story follows the adventures of a professional calligrapher who moves to Gotō and navigates his new island life. Fans of Barakamon are in for a treat, as the many scenic areas of the show look exactly like those of the island.
The title “Barakamon” itself is derived from the local dialect which means “a lively person”. This definitely fits with the vibe of the island, with its very warm and welcoming residents, who were eager to explain the history of the land.
One of the mascots of the islands is inspired by the Baramon Kite, which is locally crafted by residents.
Recently, the Barakamon manga also received a television drama adaptation released in 2023, completely filmed on the island.
Around Gotō, you will find many pamphlets detailing locations you can visit from both Barakamon and The Colors Within, showcasing the warmth and love of local residents. Merchandise of Tsubaki Neko can also be bought in many areas of the island!
Access Information 魚藍観音展望所 (Gyouran Kannon) Address: Miirakumachi Kaitsu, Goto, Nagasaki 853-0604, Japan Website: https://goto.nagasaki-tabinet.com/spot/61161 |
The Food of Gotō Islands
Japan is of course famous for its cuisine, and Gotō Islands boasts many local delicacies to entice food lovers of all kinds. One of Gotō’s most famous delicacies is their delicious meat dishes made with local ingredients. At the restaurant Mochizuki, these come in an array of different styles from steaks to stews, so there are many options to enjoy.
Access Information Mochizuki Address: 5-12 Fukuecho, Goto, Nagasaki 853-0007, Japan Operating Hours: 11 AM–2 PM, 5–8 PM (Closed on Tuesdays) Website: https://goto.nagasaki-tabinet.com/restaurant/52003 |
Another famous dish in Gotō is called “地獄炊き” (Jigoku Taku), which roughly translates to “Food prepared in hell”. That definitely sounded strong when I first heard of it, and the dish itself did pack a punch! A fascinating point of the restaurant is that you could see the udon prepared there daily!
Jigoku Taku was absolutely delicious, a combination of udon, raw eggs, and fish dashi. I also ordered some croquettes on the side.
Oddontei also had an adjoining store that sold local items. As mentioned earlier, Gotō is famous for its tsubaki flowers, which are also used in their products from hair oil to face creams. Tsubaki also adorn traditional handicrafts like Japanese-style plates, which make great souvenirs. You can also pick up some udon to make later at home!
Access Information Oddontei Address: 831-1 Yoshikugicho, Goto, Nagasaki 853-0031, Japan Operating Hours: 11 AM–2:30 PM (Closed on Tuesdays) Website: http://gotoudon-nakamoto.com/ |
Closing Thoughts
There are many different locations to explore on the Gotō Islands for nature and anime lovers alike. Make sure to pick up a pamphlet when you arrive at the airport, and get exploring!
Tsubaki Neko and co will be waiting for you!
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