Sensuijima

Floating off Tomonoura in Fukuyama City, Hiroshima, Sensuijima is an island about six kilometers in circumference, named from the saying that it is so beautiful even hermits are enchanted. It is part of the Seto Inland Sea National Park, designated in 1934 as one of Japan's first national parks, where ancient nature remains untouched. Most striking are the five colored rocks lining the shore, where stone in blue, red, yellow, white, and black continues on, a rare scene said to be found nowhere else in Japan. Shaped by volcanic activity and long erosion, this place quietly draws people as a hidden power spot.

Highlights

• The five colored rocks along the coast. Formed as magma settled and was eroded, these five colored rock faces are said to be precious and seen nowhere else in Japan.
• The walking paths across the island where untouched nature remains. Strolling with views of sea and forest lets body and mind unwind.
• The nearness of an extraordinary escape, just about five minutes by municipal ferry from Tomonoura port. The short crossing adds the feeling of a small adventure, and it pairs well with the Edo-flavored streets of Tomonoura.

Enjoying the Seasons

From spring through autumn is ideal for exploring the island, a season when walking the paths in the sea breeze feels wonderful. Summer offers seaside coolness, and autumn lets you savor the colors of the five colored rocks in clear air. Ferry service depends on the weather and may be suspended in rough conditions, so checking in advance is recommended.

Access and Basic Information

• Location: Tomo-cho, Fukuyama City, Hiroshima
• Access: About 5 minutes from the Tomonoura crossing pier on the Fukuyama municipal ferry Heisei Irohamaru. The fare is 240 yen one way for adults and 120 yen for children. From the island port you walk toward the five colored rocks.
• Hours: Free to explore (subject to ferry operating hours)
• Admission: A ferry fare is required (as above)

Practical Travel Notes

• Best season and time: Spring and autumn, when clear air brings out the colors of the five colored rocks, are the sweet spots. During the day the ferry runs at roughly 20 minute intervals.
• Time needed: To enjoy the five colored rocks and an island stroll at leisure, allow about two to three hours on the island.
• Avoiding crowds: The ferry is busy on holidays and summer break, so an early morning crossing is recommended.
• Nearby spots: The departure point, Tomonoura, gathers sights such as the stone lantern, old streets, and the Irohamaru Exhibition Hall, making a half day or more with the island.
• Budget sense: The round trip ferry fare is about a few hundred yen for an adult. The island stroll itself is free.

A Quick Tip

The island is explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes, and always check the time of the last ferry before you land. Shops and vending machines are limited, so bringing a drink is reassuring.

📚 Sources

The information in this article is organized from tourism details for the city of Fukuyama, Tomonoura, and Sensuijima, along with public guidance from the operators of the ferry and island facilities. Ferry schedules and island highlights can be checked through each operator's official information. Fees, hours, and access may change, so please always confirm with official sources before you set out.

Visitor Checklist

• Estimated time: About 1 to 2 hours to stroll the island, or roughly half a day including the ferry wait.
• What to bring: Prepare cash for the ferry fare and food, and comfortable shoes since you walk through nature.
• Getting around: The island is reached by ferry from Tomonoura, so check the schedule in advance.
• Suggested route: Cross to the island by ferry and stroll the coastal highlights such as the five-colored rocks.
• A note on safety: Watch your footing along the coast and move during daylight hours.