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Detective Conan “Airplane in the Sky”: A Complete Guide to the Sacred Site of Sakushima
The theatrical version of Detective Conan “Airplane in the Sky” (Lost Ship in the Sky), released on April 17, 2010, was a popular work that recorded box office earnings of 3.2 billion yen. In this work, Sakushima in Nishi City, Aichi Prefecture, depicted as the place where Conan and Phantom Thief Kid landed from the airship, is known as a sacred site visited by many fans.
This article provides comprehensive information necessary for visiting the area, from Sakushima’s sacred pilgrimage spots, access methods, photography points, to surrounding tourist information.
What is Detective Conan “Airplane in the Sky”?
“Airplane in the Sky (Lost Ship in the Sky)” is the 14th theatrical installment of the Detective Conan series. With a runtime of 102 minutes, it was directed by Yasui Yamamoto and written by Kazushige Konauchi.
Plot Summary
Conan and the Junior Detective League board the world’s largest airship “Belltree II” owned by Suzuki Sonoko’s uncle. However, the airship is hijacked by a terrorist organization 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 has sneaked onto the airship to steal jewels. The two form a temporary alliance and tackle solving the case.
Locations Featured in the Work
This work is set in Aichi Prefecture, Nara Prefecture, Hyogo Prefecture, and Osaka Prefecture, with real buildings and locations appearing as models. In particular, Sakushima in Aichi Prefecture is depicted as the important scene where Conan and Kid land, and after the film’s release, it became a sacred site visited by many fans.
About Sakushima: The Charm of an Art Island
Sakushima is an island in Mikawa Bay belonging to Nishi City, Aichi Prefecture. With a population of about 220 people and a circumference of approximately 11.6 km, it is a small island but is known nationwide as an “Art Island.”
History and Characteristics of Sakushima
Sakushima has long thrived with industries centered on fishing. However, as population decline and aging progressed, the “Island Revitalization through Art” project began in 1996. Art works have been installed throughout the island, and currently more than 20 permanent works are scattered around.
As an island preserving Japan’s original landscape, it has a unique atmosphere where the scenery of quiet fishing villages blends with contemporary art. Walking along the coastline, you can enjoy beautiful seas and skies and the art works scattered throughout.
Why Sakushima Is Popular Beyond “Detective Conan”
Sakushima is used as a filming location for various works beyond being a Detective Conan sacred site. It is also famous as a filming location for the movie “Cat and Grandpa,” in which Arashi’s Satoshi Ohno appeared, making it popular with film fans as well.
Additionally, with numerous art works that photograph well, it has attracted attention as an Instagram-worthy spot and has seen increasing numbers of tourists, particularly among younger generations.
Sacred Sites of “Sakushima” Where Conan and Kid Landed
Ohirunehaus: An Iconic Scene from the Work
One of the most impressive scenes in “Airplane in the Sky” is when Conan and Phantom Thief Kid sit side by side and plan their strategy. The setting for this scene is “Ohirunehaus,” an art work on the east coast of Sakushima.
Details of Ohirunehaus
Ohirunehaus is one of the early works of the Sakushima Art Project, installed in 1996. It has a bench-like structure for resting while viewing the sea, with characteristic design of a black wooden frame and roof.
As the work’s name suggests, it was designed as a place where one can take a leisurely nap while feeling the sea breeze, and indeed many tourists use it as a rest stop.
Photography Points and Angles
When taking photos for a sacred pilgrimage, the standard angle is sitting inside Ohirunehaus with the sea as a background. Many fans take photos recreating the scene of Conan and Kid sitting side by side.
Particularly at sunset, the silhouette of Ohirunehaus against the setting sun over the sea is beautiful, making it an ideal photography time. The time between 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM is recommended.
How to Get to Ohirunehaus
It is about a 15-minute walk from Sakushima Port (West Port). From the port, head toward the east coast, and you’ll reach it by following the path along the sea. Directional signs are also posted on the island, so you’re unlikely to get lost.
Tenjin no Hama: The Landing Point of Conan and Kid
The place where Conan and Phantom Thief Kid landed from the airship in the work is modeled after Tenjin no Hama on Sakushima. This area with beautiful sandy beach and calm sea is located on the east side of the island.
Characteristics of Tenjin no Hama
Tenjin no Hama is an area with particularly beautiful coastline among Sakushima. It is characterized by highly transparent seawater and white sand beach, and during summer it is bustling with people enjoying swimming.
In the film scene, the two are shown descending by parachute, and since Tenjin no Hama also has an open space, it is a location that makes it easy to imagine that scene.
Other Island Art Works
In addition to “Ohirunehaus,” numerous art works are scattered throughout Sakushima, and you can enjoy them along with the sacred pilgrimage.
Seagull Parking Lot
An art work with white seagull objects lined up right near West Port. It’s the first work you see upon arriving at the island and has become a symbol of Sakushima.
East House
A rest stop and art work on the east coast, located in the same area as Ohirunehaus. Inside there are chairs and tables, and you can actually rest here.
Ooba House
An art space created by renovating an old house, blending the island’s history with contemporary art. The interior is also open to view, and you can experience the traditional lifestyle of a fishing village.
Detailed Access Methods to Sakushima
Access from the Nagoya Area
Using Train
- From Nagoya Station to “Meitetsu Nagoya Station” on the Meitetsu Nagoya Line (if using JR, move on foot)
- From Meitetsu Nagoya Station to “Nishi Station” or “Kichiyoshida Station” on the Meitetsu Nishi Line, approximately 60 minutes
- From Nishi Station or Kichiyoshida Station via Rokumangoku Kururin Bus (Nishi City Community Bus) to “Isshiki Fish Market,” 5-minute walk to Isshiki Port
- High-speed ferry from Isshiki Port to Sakushima, approximately 20 minutes
Total time: Approximately 2 to 2.5 hours from Nagoya
Using Private Car
- From Nagoya area via National Route 23
- Head toward Nishi City and aim for Isshiki Port
- Park your car at Isshiki Port parking lot (paid parking available)
- High-speed ferry from Isshiki Port to Sakushima, approximately 20 minutes
Parking fee: Approximately 500 to 1,000 yen per day
Total time: Approximately 1 to 1.5 hours by car from Nagoya + 20 minutes by ferry
Access from the Tokyo Area
Using Shinkansen
- From Tokyo Station via Tokaido Shinkansen to Nagoya Station, approximately 1 hour 40 minutes
- Follow the route from Nagoya area above
Total time: Approximately 4 to 4.5 hours from Tokyo
Ferry Schedule and Fares
Operating Schedule
The ferry from Isshiki Port to Sakushima is operated by Meitetsu Marine Tourism.
- Approximately 7-8 departures per day (varies by season)
- Travel time: Approximately 20 minutes
- First departure: Around 7:00 AM, Last departure: Around 5:00 PM (varies by season)
Fares (As of 2024)
- Adult (Junior High School and above): 820 yen one-way, 1,630 yen round-trip
- Child (Elementary School): 410 yen one-way, 820 yen round-trip
- Preschooler: 1 free per paying adult
※Fares may change, so it is recommended to check the official website for the latest information before visiting.
Getting Around the Island
Sakushima is a small island with a circumference of approximately 11.6 km. There is no public transportation on the island; you basically move on foot.
- Full island circumference: Approximately 2.5 to 3 hours on foot
- To Ohirunehaus: Approximately 15 minutes walk from the port
- Rental bicycles: Not available (island roads are narrow with many slopes)
We strongly recommend wearing comfortable shoes for walking.
Model Courses for Sacred Pilgrimage
Half-Day Course (Approximately 3-4 hours on the island)
9:00 Depart from Isshiki Port to Sakushima
9:20 Arrive at Sakushima West Port
9:30 Photography at Seagull Parking Lot
9:45 Depart toward island’s east coast
10:00 Arrive at Ohirunehaus, photography time
10:30 Explore the area around Tenjin no Hama
11:00 Appreciate art works around East House
11:30 Lunch at a café or restaurant near the port
12:30 Purchase souvenirs
13:00 Depart from Sakushima
This course efficiently covers the main sacred pilgrimage spots while also enjoying the island’s atmosphere.
Full-Day Course (Approximately 6-7 hours on the island)
9:00 Depart from Isshiki Port to Sakushima
9:20 Arrive at Sakushima West Port
9:30 Photography at Seagull Parking Lot
10:00 Depart toward island’s east coast
10:30 Arrive at Ohirunehaus, leisurely photography and relaxation time
11:30 Explore the area around Tenjin no Hama
12:00 Tour art works in the east coast area
13:00 Lunch near the port
14:00 Explore the west and south areas of the island
15:00 Appreciate art works like Ooba House on the west side
15:30 Extend to the southernmost point of the island
16:00 Rest at a café
16:30 Purchase souvenirs
17:00 Depart from Sakushima
This course allows you to slowly explore the entire island, enjoy art works fully, and experience the island’s nature.
Photography Precautions and Etiquette
For the Protection of Works
All art works on the island, including Ohirunehaus, are carefully protected. Please note the following:
- Avoid climbing on works, leaning against them, or similar actions
- Never engage in graffiti or destruction
- Always take your trash with you
- Do not damage plants around the works
Consideration for Local Residents
About 220 people actually live on Sakushima. As a tourist, please observe proper etiquette.
- Avoid loud voices or noise in residential areas
- Do not trespass on private property
- Do not obstruct fishing operations
- Take photos in locations that do not impede parking or traffic
Best Photography Timing
- Morning (9:00 AM – 11:00 AM): Fewer tourists, can photograph peacefully
- Midday (11:00 AM – 2:00 PM): Bright light for easy photography, but more tourists
- Evening (3:00 PM – 5:00 PM): Photography with sunset as backdrop creates beautiful photos
Particularly on weekdays in the morning, you can enjoy photography in relative quiet.
Dining and Café Information on the Island
Recommended Restaurants
Saku Café
A café near West Port that offers dishes and sweets using local ingredients. You can eat while viewing the sea from a terrace seat.
- Hours: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (irregular closures)
- Recommended menu: Shirasu rice bowl, large clam curry
Suzuki Shokudo
A restaurant beloved by islanders serving fresh seafood dishes. The fried large clams are particularly popular.
- Hours: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM (irregular closures)
- Recommended menu: Seafood set meal, large clam fried set meal
Island Specialties
Sakushima is famous for the following specialty products:
- Large clams: Large clams caught near Sakushima. Thick and flavorful meat
- Shirasu: Dishes and processed foods made from fresh shirasu
- Seaweed: High-quality seaweed from Mikawa Bay
Information on Surrounding Accommodations
Accommodations on Sakushima
There are several minshuku (family-run inns) on Sakushima, making it possible to stay on the island.
Minshuku Sakushima-so
- Capacity: Approximately 20 people
- Rate: 8,000 yen and up per night (including two meals)
- Features: Proud of dishes using fresh seafood
Minshuku Sakushima
- Capacity: Approximately 15 people
- Rate: 7,500 yen and up per night (including two meals)
- Features: Homey atmosphere, home-style cooking
※Accommodations are limited in number, so early reservations are necessary, especially on weekends and holidays.
Accommodations in Nishi City
If a day trip is not feasible, staying in Nishi City near Isshiki Port is convenient.
- Business hotels: Approximately 5,000 to 8,000 yen
- Inns: Approximately 10,000 to 20,000 yen
Staying in Nishi City allows you to take an early ferry to Sakushima the next morning.
Other Sacred Sites of Airplane in the Sky
“Airplane in the Sky” has multiple sacred sites besides Sakushima.
Kofukuji Temple (Nara Prefecture): Model for Gofukuji Temple
The model for “Gofukuji Temple,” which the criminals target for the Buddhist statue in the work, is Kofukuji Temple in Nara City, Nara Prefecture.
Highlights of Kofukuji Temple
- Five-Story Pagoda: A beautiful pagoda designated as National Treasure
- Ashura Statue: Famous Buddhist statue displayed in the National Treasure Hall
- East Golden Hall: National Treasure building
- Address: 48 Noborioji-cho, Nara City, Nara Prefecture
- Access: Approximately 5 minutes walk from Kintetsu Nara Station
- Admission: 900 yen (joint ticket for National Treasure Hall and East Golden Hall)
Kiyomizu Temple (Kyoto Prefecture): Ending Scene
The temple appearing in the ending is modeled after Kiyomizu Temple in Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture.
- Address: 1-294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
- Access: Approximately 15 minutes by bus from Kyoto Station
- Admission: 400 yen
Umekoji Park (Kyoto Prefecture): Airship Departure Scene
The scene where the airship departs is modeled after Umekoji Park in Kyoto City.
- Address: Kanki-ji-cho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
- Access: Approximately 15 minutes walk from JR Kyoto Station
- Park admission: Free (some facilities charge admission)
Prior Knowledge to Maximize Enjoyment of Sacred Pilgrimage
Rewatch the Work Before Visiting
To fully enjoy the sacred pilgrimage, we recommend rewatching the film before visiting. Confirming details of scenes beforehand increases the emotional impact at the actual location.
“Airplane in the Sky” is available on the following services (streaming status may change):
- Hulu
- Amazon Prime Video
- Netflix (available depending on period)
- U-NEXT
Blu-ray and DVD versions are also available for purchase.
Bringing Related Merchandise
Taking photos with Conan and Phantom Thief Kid merchandise creates more authentic sacred pilgrimage photos.
- Figurines
- Keychains
- Clear files
- Cosplay costumes (for serious fans)
Information Gathering from SNS
Before visiting, searching SNS with hashtags like “#Sakushima,” “#Airplane in the Sky,” “#Conan Sacred Site Pilgrimage” provides reference from other fans’ visit records and photography angles.
Seasonal Ways to Enjoy
Spring (March – May)
- Mild weather, perfect for sightseeing
- Cherry blossoms (early April) also enjoyable on the island
- Golden Week is crowded, so weekday visits recommended
Summer (June – August)
- Swimming possible (at Tenjin no Hama, etc.)
- Strong sunlight requires hats and sunscreen
- Summer vacation period is crowded
- Heat stroke prevention requires frequent hydration
Autumn (September – November)
- Stable weather, ideal sightseeing season
- Beautiful sunsets, best time for photography
- October-November relatively quiet
Winter (December – February)
- Few tourists, can do pilgrimage leisurely
- Cold sea breeze requires winter clothing
- Ferry operations affected by weather
- Quiet island atmosphere unique to winter
Ways to Visit Affordably
Using Discount Passes
Meitetsu offers discount passes convenient for sightseeing toward the Nishi/Sakushima area.
Sakushima Free Pass
- Contents: Meitetsu train round-trip + ferry round-trip + island facility discounts
- Price: Approximately 3,500 yen from Nagoya (varies by season)
- Valid period: 1 day
This saves approximately 500 to 1,000 yen compared to purchasing each component individually.
Benefits of Weekday Visits
- Ferries and island less crowded
- Cafés and restaurants easier to use
- Can photograph at spots without worrying about other tourists
- Accommodation rates may be cheaper
Group Discounts
Ferry fares have group discounts (15 or more people) at 10% off regular fare. Consider visiting with a friend group.
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
Are there convenience stores or ATMs on the island?
Sakushima has neither convenience stores nor ATMs. Prepare necessary cash, drinks, and daily necessities on the mainland before heading to the island.
Can you enjoy it on rainy days?
Sacred pilgrimage is possible on rainy days, but since getting around the island is basically on foot, rain gear is essential. However, if there is strong wind or high waves, the ferry may be suspended.
Can you visit with pets?
Pets can travel on the ferry (must be in a cage or carrier). Walks are possible on the island, but leashes must be worn, and you must properly dispose of waste.
Can wheelchair users enjoy sightseeing?
Ferry boarding is possible, but the island has slopes and unpaved roads, making wheelchair movement difficult in some places. It is recommended to consult with the ferry company or island tourism association in advance.
Can you fish?
Fishing is possible on Sakushima. However, be aware of areas with fishing rights and closed fishing seasons. Also, fishing equipment rental is not available, so you need to bring your own.
Summary: How to Maximize Enjoyment of Sakushima Sacred Pilgrimage
Sakushima, a sacred site from “Detective Conan: Airplane in the Sky,” is recommended not only for fans of the work but also for those who want to enjoy art and nature.
Key points for a successful sacred pilgrimage are:
- Prior Preparation: Check ferry schedules and weather
- Study the Work: Rewatch the film before visiting and confirm scenes
- Comfortable Attire: Since getting around the island is on foot, wear comfortable shoes like sneakers
- Allow Time: Minimum 3 hours on the island, ideally half a day or more
- Observe Etiquette: Don’t forget consideration for residents and art works
The experience of sitting on the bench at Ohirunehaus where Conan and Kid sat and viewing the same scenery becomes a special memory for fans. Beautiful sea, peaceful island scenery, scattered art works. A sacred pilgrimage on Sakushima is a precious experience where you can immerse yourself in the world of the work while fully savoring the island’s charm.
Sakushima is close enough for a day trip from Nagoya. Why not take a trip following in the footsteps of Conan and Kid on your next day off?
