Uncover the secrets of Shinkamigoto!

The clear waters of this Goto Sea-facing beach in Narao are unmatched by any in the prefecture. This is the island’s premier spot for marine sports, such as snorkeling and surfing. The beach houses lining the shore are available for rent, and all the necessary facilities including bathrooms, changing rooms, and showers are free for use. Plus, it’s only a 10-minute drive from Narao Port Terminal!

This cruise offers not only stunning views of the clear, emerald waters of the Wakamatsu Strait and the table corals that inhabit it, but also a trip to a deeply moving piece of the island’s Christian faith—the Christian Cave. Marked by a large statue of a cross and Jesus Christ erected in 1967, this cave was the hiding spot for eight Christians from Satonora during Goto Kuzure, a period of mass exposure of Christian communities in the Goto Islands when practicing Christianity was illegal. 

Kashiragashima Church, this sandstone church, a rare sight in Japan, was built by Christians returning to the islands after the period of persecution, from stones they quarried themselves. The church is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan and is part of the “Churches and Christian Sites in Nagasaki” bid for designation as a World Heritage Site.

Another striking piece of architecture from prolific Christian architect Yosuke Tetsukawa, Aosagaura Church is renowned for its distinct brick exterior and wooden interior. The building that stands here today is the third iteration; it was rebuilt in 1910 and designated as an important national cultural property in 2001.

Two churches stand here: the former and current Tainora Church. The former church became the base for missionary operations in the area when Father Bourelle of the Paris Foreign Missions Society arrived in 1880. After the parishioners returned in 1949 following World War 2, the church was expanded and a bell tower was constructed using bricks from the original Urakami Cathedral in Nagasaki which was destroyed by the atomic bomb. The current Tainora Church was constructed in 1979 on the former site of the local kindergarten.
 

Marked by a large, triangular rock commonly known as “Totoro Rock” due to its resemblance to the iconic Ghibli film character, this scenic observation spot at the mouth of Nama Bay offers a stunning view of the East China Sea. The main attraction of this spot is the marvelous sight of the sun sinking into the sea in the evening, painting the rippling waves a golden orange. 

On the north side of Nakadori Island stands these strikingly tall 143-meter cliffs. Their exposed surfaces are composed of volcaniclastic stone which has been gradually eroded by waves, giving its bright red appearance. The nearby park, Shirakusa, offers a fantastic view of this naturally-made earthen mural.

This mountain on Wakamatsu Island offers a stunning view of the azure Wakamatsu Strait, Wakamatsu Port, and small surrounding islands. From here, one can observe the boats arriving and departing into and from the strait. It’s also a very popular spot for hanami, or cherry blossom viewing, in the spring.

Known as one of Japan’s “big three” in terms of udon, Goto Udon is distinct for its thin, yet firm noodles and the use of a local specialty, camellia oil, in its recipes. Another such local specialty using Goto Udon is “Jigoku Daki”, a special dish where the noodles are scooped directly from a pot of boiling water and enjoyed with soy sauce and agodashi (yet another local specialty!).

One of the island’s proudest local specialties, this broth made from flying fish gives the island’s food its unique identity. From kara-age to soy sauce to udon, the distinct, refined and rich taste of this broth can be found in many dishes and food products throughout the island, as well as bought on its own for your own cooking. This broth derives its namesake from the local name for flying fish—“ago”.

A local specialty of Shinkamigoto, Kattoppo is a unique savory seafood dish comprised of many distinct flavors. Miso, ginger, onion, and other ingredients are mixed and stuffed inside the stomach of a boxfish, which is then fried in a mixture of miso, sugar, and salt. Its name is derived from the local name for boxfish.

A beach opening event taking place in July with games, sports tournaments, and fun for the whole family. Fully enjoy the most popular beach Kamigoto has to offer with kayaks and banana boats provided free of charge.

Christmas is a very special occasion in Shinkamigoto, owing to its long and rich Christian history. The churches are decorated with lights during the month of December, which is combined with their stunning orchestral performances of traditional Christmas songs, makes for a truly enchanting Christmas experience.

Two different types of fireflies (genjihotaru and himebotaru) appear at Aiko River in late May / early June. Walk along the riverside and observe thousands of these gentle creatures as they whimsically flutter around you.

With 30 unique dances, Kamigoto Kagura embodies the definition of Sato Kagura—Kagura performed outside the local palace, created and enacted by smaller communities. This traditional art form has persisted until modern day and boasts over 400 years of history. This dance is mainly performed at Aokata Shrine, though special showings also occur at different places in town on special occasions.