Tomogashima is an uninhabited island group located off the coast of Kada, northwest of Wakayama City. There is no single island named Tomogashima; instead, it is a collective name for four islands floating in the Kitan Strait within the Setonaikai National Park: Okinoshima, Jinoshima, Torashima, and Kamishima.

The island is home to dense evergreen forests, various plants, and wildlife, with remnants of pre-war gun batteries and ammunition depots scattered throughout.

In the nature-rich Tomogashima, camping is only allowed at the "Minami Taramizu Campsite," located to the left after disembarking at the pier. To use the Minami Taramizu Campsite, you must make an online reservation in advance.

When camping on Tomogashima, make sure to carefully check the following tips and strictly follow the rules:

・The campsite is not available if Tomogashima Ferry services are suspended.
・If there is a possibility that Tomogashima Ferry services will be suspended the following day due to bad weather, you may be denied use on the day.
・It takes about 20 minutes to walk on a mountain path within the island to reach the campsite.
・Cutting trees, fireworks, open fires, and bonfires on the beach are prohibited on the island.
・There are no electricity, water supply (drinking water), or kitchen facilities at the campsite.
・Camping equipment is neither sold nor rented on the island.
・All garbage, including remains of bonfires, must be taken back with you.
・You cannot use sites other than the one you reserved.
・Reservations for more than two plots by the same group are not allowed.
・Turn off lights after 10 PM and refrain from holding parties.

Okinoshima, one of the four islands that make up Tomogashima, is dotted with gun battery ruins reminiscent of its fortress days, offering hiking trails to explore these historical sites.

The island features a striking white Western-style lighthouse that stands out against the cobalt blue sea, along with the Second Gun Battery ruins, observation points, the Third Gun Battery ruins, and a pier, forming a popular scenic 2.5-hour walking course. The island’s western side, Snake Pond, has a wetland area with diverse plant species, offering encounters with various flora during a stroll.

Tomogashima also retains historical sites and training grounds associated with Shugendo, starting from the time of En no Gyōja, providing a unique touch of history.

Tomogashima, where you can experience beautiful nature and ancient history, is perfect for family summer activities like beachcombing.

By Tomogashima Ferry:
About 20 minutes from Kada Port to Tomogashima Nonoura Pier.

Tomogashima Ferry fare:
Adults 2,200 yen, children 1,100 yen (round trip, tax included).

Tomogashima Ferry schedule:
【March 1 - December 31】
1 Kada Port Departure 9:00 Tomogashima Port Departure 9:30
(Extra 1 Kada Port Departure 10:00 Tomogashima Port Departure 10:30)
2 Kada Port Departure 11:00 Tomogashima Port Departure 11:30
3 Kada Port Departure 13:00 Tomogashima Port Departure 13:30
(Extra 2 Kada Port Departure 15:00 Tomogashima Port Departure 15:30)
4 Kada Port Departure 16:00 Tomogashima Port Departure 16:30
No service on Wednesdays (service operates if Wednesday is a public holiday)
Extra trips operate from April 29 to May 5 and from July 20 to August 31.

【January 1 - February 28】
1 Kada Port Departure 9:00 Tomogashima Port Departure 9:30
2 Kada Port Departure 11:00 Tomogashima Port Departure 11:30
3 Kada Port Departure 13:00 Tomogashima Port Departure 13:30
4 Kada Port Departure 16:00 Tomogashima Port Departure 16:30

Services operate on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays except December 29 to January 3.
Access to Kada Port:
About a 20-minute walk from Kada Station on the Kada Line.

This time, we introduced the highlights of Tomogashima, tips for enjoying camping, and access information. The atmosphere where the lush vegetation and gun battery ruins coexist is indeed an extraordinary space. Camping on Tomogashima offers a unique experience. Please take the Tomogashima Ferry to visit the island and enjoy an unparalleled camping adventure.