How to get to Tsushima

If you decide to travel to Tsushima, you are in for an introduction to an amazing island-city in Japan, known for its dense forests and unique location between Kyushu and the Korean Peninsula. When planning how to get to Tsushima, travellers usually combine different modes of transport: flying via a domestic flight or travelling overland to major ports to then take a picturesque ferry crossing.

The fastest way to reach the island is by air. Tsushima has its own airport (TSJ), located in the north-eastern part of the city. It handles regular domestic flights connecting the island with the region's main transport hubs.

Direct flights are operated from Fukuoka and Nagasaki airports. The journey takes only about 30–40 minutes, making this option ideal for those who value time. For travellers from abroad arriving in Japan, it is most convenient to plan a route through Fukuoka, where you can easily transfer to a local flight to Tsushima.

Reaching Tsushima exclusively by rail is not possible, as there is no railway infrastructure or stations on the island itself. The train will only be part of your route: travellers usually use the extensive railway network to reach major port cities, from where they can continue their journey by sea or air.

The nearest key transport hub is Fukuoka, which is convenient to reach on high-speed trains from other regions of Japan before transferring to a ferry or plane. Additionally, the island's unique location allows considering a trip via Busan: the Korean port is easy to reach by train, followed by an international ferry to the island.

Since Tsushima has no land connection to the mainland, intercity buses serve as the primary method to reach ferry terminals at key transport hubs. Travellers often choose routes to Fukuoka, where comfortable coaches from neighbouring cities in Kyushu arrive in 2–3 hours, covering a distance of 100–200 kilometres to Hakata Port for a subsequent transfer.

For those transiting through the Korea Strait, a convenient option would be a bus trip to Busan, located just 50 kilometres from the Japanese coast, making the combined "bus plus ferry" route very popular. Also, the neighbouring island of Iki is often included in the logistics scheme, where local bus lines are clearly coordinated with the ship schedule, ensuring a seamless journey through the archipelago.

A trip by car to Tsushima is always a combination of driving and a sea crossing, as there are no direct bridges to the mainland. The most popular route for car tourists starts in Fukuoka, from where car ferries transport vehicles in approximately 4–5 hours, covering a distance of about 130 kilometres, often with a scenic intermediate stop on Iki Island.

Geographically, Busan is closest to the archipelago — the sea journey is only about 50 kilometres, however, cross-border transport of personal vehicles requires complex paperwork. If you decide to use a taxi upon arrival, be prepared for high fares due to significant distances between locations, so many travellers prefer to rent a car directly at the port.

A trip to Tsushima is an immersion into a world of pristine nature and rich history on the very border of Japan. To ensure your journey goes smoothly and leaves only pleasant memories, we have compiled a list of important practical recommendations to help you prepare for the specifics of an island holiday.

1. Clothing and Essentials: The weather on the island can be changeable due to sea winds. Even in summer, it is recommended to bring a light windbreaker or raincoat. Since Tsushima is famous for its forests and mountains, be sure to pack comfortable trekking shoes for long walks.
2. Transport: Public transport on the island is not as well-developed as in major metropolitan areas, and buses run at long intervals. The most convenient way to explore the island is to rent a car. This will give you the freedom of movement to reach remote observation decks.
3. Finances: Although major hotels and supermarkets accept cards, Tsushima remains a traditional province in many respects. In small restaurants, souvenir shops, and when buying bus tickets, cash yen is often required. Withdraw money from ATMs in advance upon arrival at the port or airport.
4. Health and Safety: The island is very safe in terms of crime, but nature requires caution. Insects are active in the forests during summer, so having repellent is mandatory. Pharmacies and hospitals are concentrated in large settlements, so carry a basic medical kit with you.
5. Communication: The main language of communication is Japanese. Staff in large tourist centres speak English, but it will be more difficult to communicate in rural areas. We recommend installing an offline translator app on your smartphone to easily communicate with locals.
6. Local Etiquette: Just like everywhere in the country, politeness and modesty are valued here. When entering traditional inns (ryokans) and some restaurants, be sure to remove your shoes. It is also customary to maintain quiet in public places and not to leave litter in nature.
7. What to Avoid: Do not rely on the last ferry or flight if you have a tight connection schedule. Weather conditions in the strait can change, which sometimes leads to delays or cancellations of maritime transport. Always allow extra time for travel.
8. Additional Tip: If you find yourself in the north of the island in clear weather, be sure to visit the observation deck overlooking the Korea Strait. Tsushima is located so close to the mainland that on fine days you can see the outlines of buildings in the Korean city of Busan.

We hope these tips will help you plan your trip wisely and avoid any logistical inconveniences. Tsushima is a place where time flows differently, and proper preparation will allow you to fully enjoy the hospitality and unique atmosphere of this corner of the world.