🗺️ Yushima (Dango Island)湯島

Yushima (Dan-gou Island) floats on the Ariake Sea, a small island with a circumference of about 4 kilometers, known as "Cat Island" because the number of cats matches the number of residents. The cats are well cared for and are accustomed to interacting with tourists. Between the houses, you can see the leisurely lives of the cats and the islanders, as if time has stopped, making it a very beautiful destination. Yushima also has a rich history. During the Shimabara and Amakusa Rebellion (a peasant uprising led by Amakusa Shirō in the Edo period), Christians gathered on this small island to discuss their participation in the uprising and strategies, hence the name "Dan-gou Island." Today, remnants such as the water basin used for forging weapons and the crescent-shaped tombstones of Christian missionaries can still be seen, telling the story of Yushima's history. In addition, the white Yushima Lighthouse guarding the entrance to the Ariake Sea and the windbreak forest of Zizania are sights worth seeing on Yushima, along with experiences like dolphin watching and seasonal sea bream fishing. Not only is there fresh seafood, but also the winter-only "Yushima White Radish," known for its sweetness akin to "water pear," attracting many travelers for the island's culinary delights. Despite its small size, the island offers several guesthouses for accommodation.

There are many cats on the island. You can enjoy local specialties like Tōshima white radish and fresh seafood. There are five regular ferry services back and forth each day. During the Shimabara and Amakusa Rebellion, Amakusa Shirō held strategic meetings on this small island.