Sarushima (Monkey Island)

Yokosuka

Floating offshore from Yokosuka is the only uninhabited island in Tokyo Bay

The island is a 10-minute ferry ride from Yokosuka’s Mikasa Pier. Sarushima is Tokyo Bay’s only uninhabited island, and you’re there before you know it. The clean ocean, thickly growing trees, and a wealth of leisure facilities including barbecue spots, make this a popular spot for swimmers in the summer months. On the other hand, Sarushima is an island with history. It was once a fortress that protected Tokyo Bay where it was forbidden for civilians to land on, and it still has remnants of that period such as the barracks and gun batteries on the island.

Beaches and cafés are open from July to August!

Once you land on Sarushima, head straight for the beach. The beaches are open only from July to August. The beaches are comfortable with facilities such as changing rooms and showers. After having your fill of playing on the beach you can enjoy lunch at a café. Although there is no electricity or water on this uninhabited island, the Sarushima Ocean Kitchen is open for a limited time during July and August. They have an attractive menu with sarumen noodles that are made with seaweed from the island, curry rice, shirasu-don, and a variety of desserts. Don’t underestimate this uninhabited island; it’s a sure rival to the beach resorts of Shonan and Kamakura!

Explore the island interior after swimming!

After enjoying the beach, go visit the rare historical heritage sites on the island. Just a five-minute walk from the beach you’ll find the fortress area. The atmosphere changes immediately once you see the thick French brick walls of the buildings. This area is famous for being the inspiration for ruins in the Studio Ghibli’s movie Castle in the Sky, and the location of the hideout for Kamen Rider’s nemesis, the Shocker. This island is replete with a mysterious atmosphere that is sure to enchant anime and sentai (fighting squadron) hero fans.

For reference

Sarushima

Address

Sarushima, Yokosuka-shi, Kanagawa-ken
Ferry times

First ferry from Mikasa to Sarushima leaves at 8:30 A.M. Last ferry from Sarushima to Mikasa leaves at 5:00 P.M.
Season

Ferry runs daily from March to November. Ferry runs on Saturdays, Sundays, and national holidays only from December to February.
Price

1300 yen for round trip ferry fare (adult) + 200 yen entry fee to Sarushima