Just a short ferry ride off the coast of Yokosuka, Sarushima (猿島)—the largest and only natural uninhabited island in Tokyo Bay—offers visitors a unique blend of history, mystery, and art. This video takes viewers on a laid-back walking tour of Sarushima, known for its crumbling Meiji-era military ruins, now interwoven with installations from modern artists.

The journey begins at the Yokosuka ferry terminal, with regular boats whisking visitors to the island in under ten minutes. Sarushima’s original purpose dates back to its role as a coastal fortress protecting Tokyo from possible naval incursions in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Visitors can explore abandoned gun batteries, barracks, ammunition depots, and see evidence of bullet marks and historical structures throughout the lush, untamed landscape. Information and explanations on the island are available thanks to materials curated by the Sarushima management building and guided tours.

A highlight of the current Sarushima experience is the “SENSE ISLAND / LAND 2024” contemporary art exhibition, which transforms the atmospheric tunnels and ruins into spaces for creative expression. The video showcases several outdoor art installations, with evocative pieces blending into the tunnels, high-angle gun battery sites, and old fortifications, contributing to the island’s almost cinematic ambiance. Some scenes even draw visual parallels to fictional castles, like Laputa from Studio Ghibli’s ‘Castle in the Sky.’

For travelers in the Tokyo area, Sarushima is a must-see for those interested in a combination of Japanese military history, island nature, and immersive contemporary art. The ferry schedule and additional visitor information is available on the official Sarushima English website. Whether you’re curious about historic ruins or want to experience Japan’s take on outdoor art, Sarushima presents an unforgettable day trip.

Coordinates for Sarushima: 35.2739, 139.6611. The ferry to Sarushima departs from Mikasa Pier in Yokosuka. Local information is based on on-site exhibits, local guides, and official brochures.