[Detective Conan] The Skyward Ship Wreck – Saku Island, Aichi Prefecture

[Detective Conan] Sky Hijack – Saku Island (Aichi Prefecture)

The theatrical version “Detective Conan: Sky Hijack,” released on April 17, 2010, was a popular film that recorded box office earnings of 3.2 billion yen. Saku Island in Nishi Ward, Aichi Prefecture, depicted as the place where Conan and Phantom Thief Kid descended from the airship in this work, is known as a sacred site visited by many fans.

This article provides a thorough introduction to everything needed for a visit to the site, including Saku Island’s pilgrimage spots, access methods, photography points, and surrounding tourist information.

What is Detective Conan’s “Sky Hijack”?

“Sky Hijack (Lost Ship in the Sky)” is the 14th film in the Detective Conan theatrical series. With a runtime of 102 minutes, it was directed by Taichiro Yamamoto and written by Kazunari Furuuchi.

Plot Summary of the Work

Conan and the Boy Detective Club board the world’s largest airship “Bertree,” owned by Sonoko Suzuki’s uncle. However, the airship is hijacked by a terrorist group called “Red Siamese Cat.” The criminals’ objective is to steal a Buddhist statue enshrined in a temple in Nara.

Conan, thrown from the airship, is rescued by Phantom Thief Kid, who had snuck onto the airship to steal jewels. The two form a temporary alliance and tackle the case resolution.

Locations Featured in the Work

This work is set in Aichi, Nara, Hyogo, and Osaka prefectures, with real buildings and locations serving as models. Saku Island in Aichi Prefecture in particular is depicted as the stage for the important scene where Conan and Kid descend, and has become a sacred site visited by many fans following the film’s release.

About Saku Island: The Charm of an Art Island

Saku Island is a remote island floating in Mikawa Bay, belonging to Nishi Ward, Aichi Prefecture. With a population of approximately 220 people and a circumference of about 11.6 km, it’s a small island that is widely known throughout Japan as an “art island.”

History and Characteristics of Saku Island

Saku Island has long prospered through industries centered on fishing. However, as population decline and aging progressed, an “island revitalization through art” project began in 1996. Art works have been installed throughout the island, and now over 20 permanent pieces are scattered across it.

As an island preserving Japan’s original scenery, its unique atmosphere combines the serene landscape of a fishing village with contemporary art. Walking along the coastline, you can enjoy beautiful sea and sky, along with the art installations scattered throughout.

Why Saku Island is Popular Beyond “Detective Conan”

Saku Island is used as a filming location for various works beyond serving as a Detective Conan sacred site. It’s also famous as a filming location for the movie “A Cat and an Old Man,” starring Satoshi Ohno from Arashi, making it popular among film fans as well.

Additionally, with numerous photogenic art works, it has gained attention as an Instagram-worthy spot and is seeing increased tourist numbers, particularly among younger generations.

Sacred Sites on “Saku Island” Where Conan and Kid Descended

Ohirunehaus: An Iconic Scene from the Work

One of the most memorable scenes in “Sky Hijack” is when Conan and Phantom Thief Kid sit side by side and plan their strategy. The stage for this scene is an art work called “Ohirunehaus” on the east coast of Saku Island.

Details of Ohirunehaus

Ohirunehaus is one of the early works of the Saku Island Art Project, installed in 1996. With a structure like a bench where you can rest while viewing the sea, it features distinctive black wooden framing and a roof design.

As the work’s name suggests, it was designed as a place where you can nap leisurely while feeling the sea breeze, and many tourists actually use it as a rest spot.

Photography Points and Angles

When taking photographs during a pilgrimage visit, the standard angle is to sit inside Ohirunehaus with the sea in the background. Many fans choose to photograph it by reproducing the scene where Conan and Kid sat side by side.

Particularly at dusk, the silhouette of Ohirunehaus against the setting sun over the sea is beautiful, making it an ideal photography time. The afternoon period from 3 PM to 5 PM is recommended.

How to Get to Ohirunehaus

It’s located about a 15-minute walk from Saku Island’s port (West Port). Leaving the port and heading toward the east coast, you can reach it by following the coastal road. Island directional signs have also been installed, so it’s unlikely you’ll get lost.

Tenjin Beach: Conan and Kid’s Landing Point

The location where Conan and Phantom Thief Kid descended from the airship in the work is believed to be modeled after Tenjin Beach on Saku Island. This area, featuring beautiful sandy beaches and calm seas, is located on the island’s east side.

Characteristics of Tenjin Beach

Tenjin Beach is an area on Saku Island with particularly beautiful coastline. It’s characterized by highly transparent seawater and white sandy beach, with many people enjoying swimming during summer.

In the film scene, the two descend by parachute, and since Tenjin Beach itself has an open space, it’s a location that makes it easy to imagine that scene.

Other Art Works on the Island

Beyond “Ohirunehaus,” Saku Island has numerous art works scattered throughout that can be enjoyed alongside the pilgrimage visit.

Seagull Parking Lot

An art work featuring white seagull objects lined up right next to the West Port. It’s one of the first things you see upon arriving on the island and has become a symbolic presence of Saku Island.

East House

A rest area and art work on the east coast, located in the same area as Ohirunehaus. It has chairs and tables inside and can actually be used for rest.

Ooba Residence

An art space created by refurbishing an old folk house, a work where the island’s history and contemporary art merge. The interior can be viewed, allowing you to experience the old-fashioned way of life in a fishing village.

Detailed Access Methods to Saku Island

Access from the Nagoya Area

By Train

1. From Nagoya Station to “Meitetsu Nagoya Station” on the Meitetsu Nagoya Main Line (walk if using JR)
2. From Meitetsu Nagoya Station to “Nishi Station” or “Kira Yoshida Station” on the Meitetsu Nishi Line, approximately 60 minutes
3. From Nishi Station or Kira Yoshida Station by Rokumanseki Kururin Bus (Nishi City Community Bus) to “Isshiki Sakanakohiroba,” then 5 minutes walk to Isshiki Port
4. High-speed boat from Isshiki Port to Saku Island, approximately 20 minutes

Total time: Approximately 2 hours to 2 hours 30 minutes from Nagoya

By Private Vehicle

1. From Nagoya area using National Route 23
2. Head toward Nishi Ward and aim for Isshiki Port
3. Park your car at Isshiki Port parking lot (paid parking available)
4. High-speed boat from Isshiki Port to Saku Island, approximately 20 minutes

Parking fee: Approximately 500 to 1,000 yen per day
Total time: Approximately 1 to 1.5 hours from Nagoya by car + 20 minutes by boat

Access from the Tokyo Area

Using the Shinkansen

1. From Tokyo Station on the Tokaido Shinkansen to Nagoya Station, approximately 1 hour 40 minutes
2. Follow the route from Nagoya mentioned above

Total time: Approximately 4 to 4.5 hours from Tokyo

Ferry Schedule and Fares

Operating Schedule

Ferries from Isshiki Port to Saku Island are operated by Meitetsu Marine Tourism.

• Approximately 7 to 8 departures per day (varies by season)
• Travel time: Approximately 20 minutes
• First departure: Around 7 AM, Final: Around 5 PM (varies by season)

Fares (as of 2024)

• Adult (Junior high school and above): One way 820 yen, Round trip 1,630 yen
• Child (Elementary school): One way 410 yen, Round trip 820 yen
• Preschool: 1 free with each adult

※Fares may change, so please check the official website for the latest information before visiting.

Transportation on the Island

Saku Island is a small island with a circumference of about 11.6 km. There are no public transportation options on the island; movement is essentially on foot.

• Full island loop: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours on foot
• To Ohirunehaus: Approximately 15 minutes walk from the port
• No bicycle rentals (island roads are narrow with many inclines)

Visiting in comfortable, easy-to-walk shoes is strongly recommended.

Recommended Pilgrimage Routes

Half-Day Course (Approximately 3-4 Hours Stay)

9:00 Departure from Isshiki Port to Saku Island
9:20 Arrival at Saku Island West Port
9:30 Photography at Seagull Parking Lot
9:45 Depart toward the island’s east coast
10:00 Arrive at Ohirunehaus, photography time
10:30 Explore around Tenjin Beach
11:00 View nearby art works including East House
11:30 Lunch at a café or restaurant near the port
12:30 Purchase souvenirs
13:00 Depart from Saku Island

This course efficiently covers the main pilgrimage sites while also enjoying the island’s atmosphere.

Full-Day Course (Approximately 6-7 Hours Stay)

9:00 Departure from Isshiki Port to Saku Island
9:20 Arrival at Saku Island West Port
9:30 Photography at Seagull Parking Lot
10:00 Depart toward the island’s east coast
10:30 Arrive at Ohirunehaus, leisurely photography and relaxation time
11:30 Explore around Tenjin Beach
12:00 Tour art works in the east coast area
13:00 Lunch near the port
14:00 Explore the west and south side areas of the island
15:00 View art works including Ooba Residence on the west side
15:30 Extend to the island’s southernmost point
16:00 Rest at a café
16:30 Purchase souvenirs
17:00 Depart from Saku Island

This course allows leisurely island exploration while enjoying art works and the island’s nature.

Photography Precautions and Etiquette

For Work Protection

All art works on the island, including Ohirunehaus, are carefully protected. Please note the following:

• Avoid climbing on works or leaning against them
• Never vandalize or damage works
• Always take trash with you
• Don’t damage plants around the works

Consideration for Local Residents

Saku Island is where approximately 220 people actually live. Maintain tourist etiquette.

• Avoid loud voices and noise in residential areas
• Don’t trespass on private property without permission
• Don’t interfere with fishery workers
• Photograph from places that won’t obstruct parking or traffic

Best Photography Times

• Morning (9:00-11:00): Few tourists, can photograph leisurely
• Midday (11:00-14:00): Good bright light for photography, but many tourists
• Evening (15:00-17:00): Can photograph with sunset backdrop, produces beautiful photos

Weekday mornings especially are relatively uncrowded, allowing you to enjoy photography at your leisure.

Island Dining and Café Information

Recommended Restaurants

Saku Café

A café near West Port offering cuisine and sweets made with local ingredients. You can dine while overlooking the sea from the terrace seating.

• Hours: 10:00-16:00 approximately (irregular closures)
• Recommended Menu: Whitebait rice bowl, large clam curry

Suzukiya Shokudō

A popular diner among islanders serving fresh seafood cuisine. The fried large clam is particularly popular.

• Hours: 11:00-14:00 approximately (irregular closures)
• Recommended Menu: Seafood set meal, large fried clam set meal

Island Specialty Products

Saku Island is famous for the following specialty products:

• Large Clams: Large clams caught around Saku Island with thick, rich-flavored meat
• Whitebait: Dishes and processed products using fresh whitebait
• Seaweed: High-quality seaweed from Mikawa Bay

Nearby Accommodation Information

Accommodations on Saku Island

There are several minshuku (traditional Japanese inns) on Saku Island where you can stay overnight.

Minshuku Sakushimaso

• Capacity: Approximately 20 people
• Rate: Around 8,000 yen per night with two meals
• Features: Pride themselves on dishes using fresh seafood

Minshuku Sakushima

• Capacity: Approximately 15 people
• Rate: Around 7,500 yen per night with two meals
• Features: Homey atmosphere, home-style cooking

※Limited accommodations require early reservations, especially for weekends and holidays.

Accommodations in Nishi City

If a day trip is difficult, staying in Nishi City where Isshiki Port is located is convenient.

• Business Hotels: Around 5,000 to 8,000 yen
• Traditional Inns: Around 10,000 to 20,000 yen

Staying in Nishi City allows you to depart on an early morning ferry to Saku Island.

Other Sacred Sites from Sky Hijack

“Sky Hijack” has multiple sacred sites beyond Saku Island.

Kofukuji Temple (Nara Prefecture): Model for Gofukuji Temple

The “Gofukuji Temple” where the criminals target the Buddhist statue in the work is modeled after Kofukuji Temple in Nara City, Nara Prefecture.

Things to See at Kofukuji Temple

• Five-Story Pagoda: A beautiful pagoda designated as a National Treasure
• Ashura Statue: A famous Buddhist statue displayed in the National Treasure Hall
• East Golden Hall: National Treasure building

• Address: 48 Noborioji-cho, Nara City, Nara Prefecture
• Access: About 5 minutes walk from Kintetsu Nara Station
• Admission: Joint ticket for National Treasure Hall and East Golden Hall 900 yen

Kiyomizu Temple (Kyoto Prefecture): Ending Scene

The temple appearing in the ending is believed to be modeled after Kiyomizu Temple in Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture.

• Address: 1-294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
• Access: About 15 minutes by bus from Kyoto Station
• Admission: 400 yen

Umekoji Park (Kyoto Prefecture): Airship Departure Scene

The scene showing the airship’s departure is modeled after Umekoji Park in Kyoto City.

• Address: Kankiji-cho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
• Access: About 15 minutes walk from JR Kyoto Station
• Park Admission: Free (some facilities require admission)

Preliminary Knowledge to Enjoy the Pilgrimage More

Rewatch the Work Before Visiting

To enjoy the pilgrimage more thoroughly, it’s recommended to rewatch the film before visiting. Confirming scene details beforehand will increase the emotional impact at the location.

“Sky Hijack” is available on the following services (distribution status may change):

• Hulu
• Amazon Prime Video
• Netflix (available during certain periods)
• U-NEXT

Blu-rays and DVDs are also available for purchase.

Bringing Related Goods

Bringing Conan or Phantom Thief Kid merchandise to photograph produces more pilgrimage-like photos.

• Figures
• Key chains
• Clear files
• Cosplay costumes (for serious fans)

Social Media Information Gathering

Before visiting, searching hashtags like “#SakuIsland,” “#SkyHijack,” “#ConanPilgrimage” on social media provides reference for other fans’ visit records and photography angles.

Seasonal Enjoyment

Spring (March-May)

• Mild weather ideal for tourism
• Cherry blossom season (early April) allows enjoying blossoms on the island
• Golden Week is crowded; weekday visits recommended

Summer (June-August)

• Swimming available (Tenjin Beach, etc.)
• Strong sunlight requires hats and sunscreen
• Summer vacation period is crowded
• Frequent water breaks necessary for heat stroke prevention

Autumn (September-November)

• Stable weather, ideal tourism season
• Beautiful sunsets, perfect for photography
• October-November relatively uncrowded

Winter (December-February)

• Few tourists, allowing leisurely pilgrimage
• Cold sea breeze requires cold-weather gear
• Ferry operation affected by weather
• Enjoy the quiet island atmosphere unique to winter

Ways to Visit Affordably

Using Discount Passes

Meitetsu offers discount passes convenient for tourism in the Nishi-Saku Island area.

Saku Island Free Pass

• Contents: Meitetsu train round trip + ferry round trip + island facility discounts
• Price: Around 3,500 yen from Nagoya (varies by period)
• Valid Period: 1 day

This saves approximately 500 to 1,000 yen compared to standard individual ticket purchases.

Weekday Visit Benefits

• Ferries and island less crowded
• Easier access to cafés and restaurants
• Photography at spots with fewer other tourists
• Sometimes lower accommodation rates

Group Discounts

Ferry fares offer group discounts (15+ people), providing 10% off standard rates. Consider group visits with friends.

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

Are there convenience stores or ATMs on the island?

Saku Island has neither convenience stores nor ATMs. Prepare necessary cash, beverages, and daily necessities on the mainland before departing to the island.

Can you enjoy it on rainy days?

Pilgrimage visits are possible in rain, but since island movement is primarily on foot, rain gear is essential. However, strong winds or high waves may cause ferry cancellations.

Can you visit with pets?

Pet boarding on the ferry is possible (must be in a cage or carrier). Walking on the island is also possible, but always use a leash and properly dispose of waste.

Can wheelchair users tour?

Ferry boarding is possible, but navigating the island is difficult with wheelchairs due to inclines and unpaved roads. It’s recommended to consult with the ferry company or island tourism association beforehand.

Can you fish?

Fishing is available on Saku Island. However, be aware of areas with fishing rights and closed seasons. Fishing equipment rentals aren’t available, so bring your own.

Summary: Maximizing Your Saku Island Pilgrimage Experience

Saku Island, the sacred site of “Detective Conan: Sky Hijack,” is recommended not only for work fans but also for those wanting to enjoy art and nature.

Key points for a successful pilgrimage are as follows:

1. Advance Preparation: Confirm ferry schedules and check weather
2. Work Preview: Rewatch the film before visiting to confirm scenes
3. Comfortable Clothing: Wear sneakers or other easy-to-walk shoes since island movement is on foot
4. Allow Extra Time: A minimum of 3 hours, preferably half a day or more of stay is recommended
5. Observe Etiquette: Remember to show consideration for local residents and art works

Sitting on the bench where Conan and Kid sat at Ohirunehaus and viewing the same scenery creates a special memory for fans. Beautiful sea, serene island landscape, and scattered art works. A Saku Island pilgrimage offers a precious experience to immerse yourself in the work’s world while fully enjoying the island’s charm.

Saku Island is close enough for a day trip from Nagoya. Why not take a journey tracing Conan and Kid’s footsteps on your next day off?