Overview
Kamishima is an island in the Amakusa archipelago of Kumamoto Prefecture, covering 225.32 km2. It is the second largest island in Amakusa, the second largest in Kumamoto, and the 16th largest in all of Japan. Its coasts are washed by the Yatsushiro Sea and by Shimabara Bay of the Ariake Sea, both part of the East China Sea.
Highlights
- ●Views from Mount Kuratake, the 682 m summit
- ●Coastline framed by the Yatsushiro Sea and Shimabara Bay
- ●An island straddling Amakusa and Kami-Amakusa cities
- ●Second largest island in Kumamoto and 16th in Japan
History
The western part of the island is administered as part of Amakusa city, while the eastern part belongs to Kami-Amakusa city, so the island straddles two municipalities. Its highest peak is Mount Kuratake, rising to 682 m.
Access
The island lies in the Amakusa archipelago of Kumamoto Prefecture, with its western half in Amakusa city and its eastern half in Kami-Amakusa city. The terrain is hilly and crowned by Mount Kuratake. For specific routes, please check maps and official information.
Best season
A clear daytime visit is best, when the calm waters of the Yatsushiro Sea and Shimabara Bay and the surrounding coastline can be enjoyed at their finest.
Map
32.4500, 130.3333 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Cross to Kamishima from the Amakusa or Kami-Amakusa side
- 2Head for the summit of Mount Kuratake for the view
- 3Explore the coastal scenery along the Yatsushiro Sea and Shimabara Bay
- 4Extend your trip toward neighboring Shimoshima
Did you know?
💡 The island is sometimes mistakenly written as "Ueshima," but its correct reading is Kamishima.
Nearby spots
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