Start your exploration of the fascinating islands within Saikai National Park with an early flight from Fukuoka to Goto-Tsubaki Airport on Fukuejima Island. Over 150 islands comprise the Goto Islands, including Fukuejima. During the Edo period (1603–1867), Christians fleeing persecution in Nagasaki found refuge on these islands, which have been registered UNESCO World Cultural Heritage sites. Rent a car to explore spiritual sites, dramatic cliffs, and some of the most beautiful beaches in Japan. Stroll along Takahama Beach, renowned for its pristine white sand and clear water. From there, it’s a short drive or 30-minute walk up to Gyoran Kannon Observation Point, where a statue of Gyoran Kannon (patroness of fishermen), overlooks the ocean.

Drive to Arakawa Onsen, a natural hot spring near the coast. Take a break to soak your feet in the free hot spring foot bath, before exploring the area. Sights include a giant arch made from the jawbone of a whale. There are also several restaurants and cafes in the area for a lunch break.

In the afternoon, take a beginner-friendly cycling tour with an English-speaking guide. Explore lesser-known spots on the island by mountain bike and enjoy the sea breeze and scenery while you learn more about the history of the Goto Islands.

After the tour, drive to your accommodation, GOTO RETREAT by Onko Chishin. All guest rooms have ocean views and an outdoor bath. Dine on “Hikari no Washoku,” cuisine inspired by the local environment, featuring fresh seafood, and rare Goto Beef, which is raised on the island in very limited numbers. After dinner, you can stargaze with a guide on Mount Onidake to make the most of the low light pollution around the island. On a clear night, you can see thousands of stars.

Wake early to greet the day as the sun rises over the Abunze Lava Coast, where lava from Mount Onidake’s eruption flowed into the sea. The rocky coastline is surrounded by lush greenery, nurtured by the rich volcanic soil. Return to the hotel for a nourishing breakfast, before driving to Fukue Port Terminal to take a car ferry to Aokata Port on the Nakadorijima, one of several islands that make up the town of Shinkamigoto.

The area is dotted with 29 churches built by the Christians who sheltered here, earning Shinkamigoto the nickname “Island of Prayer.” Drive to Hamagurihama Beach and explore the seemingly endless shallows before taking lunch at Hamaguri Deck, a casual beachside restaurant. From there, it’s a short drive to Kurosaki Park for a panoramic vista of the surrounding islands. Nearby, Hamanna is a secluded white-sand beach that looks out to Gengoro, a sharp, rocky islet that appears to float on the sea.

If you’re feeling energetic, drive to Mount Sanno (439 m) and hike 20 minutes to the summit for views of the Goto Islands. Afterwards, return to Hamagurihama Beach, for the night. You will find various dining options in the area, including Kamome Tei for teishoku meal sets, and Men’s Hamasaki for udon noodles.

Wake up with the sun for a pre-breakfast stroll along the beach. After breakfast and hotel check-out, join a half-day kayaking experience. Paddle to uninhabited islands and enjoy the relaxing sea breezes as you explore. After lunch, stroll to Narao Shrine to see the Narao Ako Tree. The tree is estimated to be around 670 years old, and its raised roots straddle the path to the shrine, forming a natural torii gate.

From Narao Port you can take a high-speed Jetfoil ferry to Nagasaki City to continue your journey.