“Aokana: Four Rhythms Across the Blue” (commonly known as “Aokana”) is a popular work featuring the fictional sport “Flying Circus.” The beautiful setting for this story is the Goto Islands in Nagasaki Prefecture. This article provides a thorough explanation of detailed spot information on each island, efficient ways to visit them, and access methods for those planning an actual pilgrimage to the sacred sites.
The Relationship Between “Aokana: Four Rhythms Across the Blue” and the Goto Islands
In the world of “Aokana: Four Rhythms Across the Blue,” a near-future is depicted where flying through the air via anti-gravity shoes called “Grav-Shoes” has become commonplace. The model for the fictional islands where the protagonists live is the Goto Islands in Nagasaki Prefecture.
The Goto Islands are located in the western sea off Nagasaki Prefecture and consist of 152 large and small islands. The work features landscapes from the five main islands—Fukue Island, Nakatsudori Island, Kuka Island, Naru Island, and Wakamatsu Island—throughout, with beautiful coastlines, historic church groups, and peaceful island life coloring the work’s world view.
Since the broadcast of the anime version, the Goto Islands have become established as a sacred site for “Aokana” fans, and with the 2026 commemorative project for the 10th anniversary of the television anime broadcast being held in Goto City and Shinkamigoto Town, the region’s ties have deepened further.
Access Methods to the Goto Islands
Access by Airplane
Fukue Airport (Goto Tsubaki Airport)
- Approximately 30 minutes from Nagasaki Airport (ANA, Oriental Air Bridge)
- Approximately 40 minutes from Fukuoka Airport
- 3-4 flights operated daily
If using Fukue Island as your base, the airplane is the most time-efficient option. However, because the number of flights is limited, early reservations are necessary.
Access by Ferry and High-Speed Boat
From Nagasaki Port
- Jetfoil (high-speed boat): Approximately 1 hour 25 minutes to Fukue Port
- Ferry: Approximately 3 hours 10 minutes to Fukue Port
- To Nara-o Port (Nakatsudori Island): Approximately 1 hour 35 minutes by jetfoil, approximately 4 hours 40 minutes by ferry
From Sasebo Port
- Ferry: Approximately 2 hours 50 minutes to Nara-o Port
For those with time to spare or who want to bring vehicles, ferries are recommended. You can also enjoy the scenery of the Goto Islands approaching from the ship.
Transportation Within and Between Islands
Rental Car
A rental car is absolutely recommended for sacred site pilgrimages. Many sacred sites on each island are difficult to access by public transportation, and a car is essential for visiting them efficiently.
- Around Fukue Port: Multiple options including Toyota Rental Car, Nippon Rental Car, and local operators
- Fukue Airport: Rental car counters are available inside the airport
- Nakatsudori Island: Several companies near Arikawa Port and Nara-o Port
During busy seasons (Golden Week, summer vacation, Silver Week), cars become fully booked early, so reservations at least one month in advance are recommended.
Buses and Taxis
Goto Bus operates on each island, but with few services, it is unsuitable for sacred site pilgrimages. Taxis offer sightseeing taxi plans, but rates are expensive.
Travel Between Islands
- Fukue Island ↔ Kuka Island: Regular ferry approximately 20 minutes
- Fukue Island ↔ Naru Island: Ferry approximately 40 minutes
- Nakatsudori Island ↔ Wakamatsu Island: Connected by Wakamatsu Bridge (travel by car possible)
- Fukue Island ↔ Nakatsudori Island: Ferry approximately 2 hours
①Sacred Sites on Nakatsudori Island and Wakamatsu Island
Nakatsudori Island is located in the northern part of the Goto Islands and is the center of Shinkamigoto Town. Wakamatsu Island is connected to it by the Wakamatsu Bridge, allowing the two to be visited together.
No.01 Abandoned Bus on Prefectural Road 218
Appearance in the Work
An abandoned bus stands on a hill overlooking the sea, used impressively in the anime opening and game key visuals. It appears multiple times in important scenes, such as when Asuka and Mashiro have a conversation.
Access Information
- Location: Wakamatsu-go, Shinkamigoto Town, Minami-Matsura District, Nagasaki Prefecture
- Parking: A few spaces on the roadside
- Access: Approximately 40 minutes by car from Arikawa Port
It is located on the sea side along Prefectural Road 218. The mountain road has many curves, so careful driving is necessary. Since the abandoned bus is situated on private land, please observe proper manners when viewing.
Photography Tips
The composition of blue sky, sea, and the abandoned bus in fair weather matches the atmosphere of the work. The morning through early afternoon is ideal for forward-lit photography. Since surrounding vegetation is thick, the appearance changes with the seasons.
No.02 Aosagaura Church Bus Stop
Appearance in the Work
Scenes of the road in front of the church and the area around the bus stop that appear in the game and anime versions are faithfully recreated.
Access Information
- Location: Nama-go, Shinkamigoto Town, Minami-Matsura District, Nagasaki Prefecture
- Parking: Dedicated parking lot across from the church
- Access: Approximately 20 minutes by car from Arikawa Port
- Visiting Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Not available during Mass)
Aosagaura Church is a nationally designated important cultural property and a beautiful brick church. Interior viewing is possible, but prior contact is recommended (Nagasaki and Amakusa Region Hidden Christian Heritage Information Center: 0959-42-0964).
Precautions
The church is an active religious facility. When visiting, be quiet, photograph only the exterior, and interior photography is prohibited. Avoid clothing with excessive skin exposure, and remove your hat when entering the church.
No.03 Nara-o Port Terminal
Appearance in the Work
The model for a flashback scene with young Asuka in Episode 9 of the anime version. Also used in the PS4 version’s key visual.
Access Information
- Location: Narao-go, Shinkamigoto Town, Minami-Matsura District, Nagasaki Prefecture
- Parking: Free parking lot in front of the terminal
- Access: Approximately 50 minutes by car from Arikawa Port, or direct access by ferry from Nagasaki Port
Nara-o Port is located at the southern tip of Nakatsudori Island and is a major port where ferries from Nagasaki and Sasebo arrive and depart. The terminal building exterior, waiting room, and port scenery appear in the work.
Nearby Facilities
There are restaurants and shops around Nara-o Port, where you can enjoy local cuisine such as Goto udon. Sacred site pilgrimages are possible using ferry waiting time.
Other Spots on Nakatsudori Island
Hamawaki Church
One of the church models that appears in the work. A simple wooden church where you can feel the history of faith in Goto.
Around Arikawa Port
The gateway to Nakatsudori Island, where shopping street scenery and other elements have been incorporated into the work.
②Sacred Sites on Naru Island
Naru Island is located northeast of Fukue Island, a quiet island with a population of approximately 2,000.
No.04 Miya-no-hama Beach
Appearance in the Work
A beautiful beach used in flashback scenes from Episode 9 of the anime version and the PS4 version’s key visual. White sandy beach and emerald green sea are depicted as striking scenes.
Access Information
- Location: Ura, Narucho, Goto City, Nagasaki Prefecture
- Parking: Free parking lot at the beach (approximately 20 cars)
- Access: Approximately 15 minutes by car from Naru Port
- Swimming Season: Mid-July through Late August
A beautiful beach selected by the Ministry of the Environment for “Japan’s Best 100 Beaches.” With high transparency, it is also suitable for snorkeling.
Photography Tips
The sea color in clear weather best matches the atmosphere of the work. Outside the summer season, there are fewer people, and you can photograph slowly. However, in winter, strong winds and high waves are possible, so caution is necessary.
No.05 Naru Sensho-jiki
Appearance in the Work
The vast grassland scenery is used in the background of scenes where characters fly through the sky in the work.
Access Information
- Location: Tomari, Narucho, Goto City, Nagasaki Prefecture
- Parking: None (park on roadside)
- Access: Approximately 20 minutes by car from Naru Port
A vast grassland facing the sea, offering spectacular views of Goto-nada (strait) on clear days. Wind is often strong, so be careful of items like hats blowing away.
Access to Naru Island
- From Fukue Port: Approximately 40 minutes by ferry, approximately 25 minutes by high-speed boat
- From Nagasaki Port: Direct access possible by ferry (approximately 2 hours 30 minutes)
There are few rental car companies on the island, so advance reservations are essential. Bicycle rentals are available, but since the distance between sacred sites is considerable, this is recommended for those with confidence in their fitness level.
③Sacred Sites on Kuka Island
Kuka Island is located northeast of Fukue Island, a tiny island with a population of approximately 200. It is home to the “Kuka Island Settlement,” a constituent property of the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Hidden Christian Sites in the Nagasaki Region and the Onomichi Region.”
Former Gorin Church Building
Appearance in the Work
Regarded as one of the church models that appears in the work.
Access Information
- Location: Warabi-cho, Goto City, Nagasaki Prefecture
- Viewing: Advance reservation required (Nagasaki and Amakusa Region Hidden Christian Heritage Information Center)
- Access: Approximately 30 minutes on foot from Tanohura Port, or approximately 10 minutes by car
A nationally designated important cultural property and UNESCO World Heritage constituent asset. Advance reservations are absolutely necessary for viewing.
Access to Kuka Island
- From Fukue Port: Approximately 20 minutes by regular ferry (4-5 daily services)
- Arrival at Tanohura Port
Kuka Island has almost no accommodations or rental cars. Day trips are typical, with travel by foot or pre-arranged taxi. Ferry times are limited, so planned action is necessary.
④Sacred Sites on Fukue Island
Fukue Island is the largest island in the Goto Islands and the center of Goto City. It is the most convenient island to use as a pilgrimage base.
Fukue Shopping Arcade
Appearance in the Work
Appears in game and anime versions in scenes where the protagonists shop.
Access Information
- Location: Fukue-cho, Goto City, Nagasaki Prefecture
- Parking: Multiple paid parking lots nearby
- Access: Approximately 5 minutes on foot from Fukue Port
The arcade features shops and restaurants where you can feel the local lifestyle. You can also enjoy local cuisine such as Goto udon and Goto beef.
Buke Yashiki Street (Around Ishida Castle Ruins)
Appearance in the Work
Historic townscapes are used as backgrounds in the work.
Access Information
- Location: Buke Yashiki, Goto City, Nagasaki Prefecture
- Parking: Ishida Castle Ruins parking lot available
- Access: Approximately 5 minutes by car from Fukue Port, approximately 15 minutes on foot
A street retaining the appearance of samurai residences from the Edo period, with beautiful stonework and hedgerows creating a scenic landscape.
Osezaki Lighthouse
Appearance in the Work
A white stone lighthouse standing on a cliff, impressively appearing in anime and game versions.
Access Information
- Location: Tamanosura, Tamanosura-cho, Goto City, Nagasaki Prefecture
- Parking: Free parking lot before the lighthouse
- Access: Approximately 60 minutes by car from Fukue Port
- On Foot: Approximately 20 minutes from parking lot to lighthouse
Selected as one of “Japan’s 50 Best Lighthouses,” this beautiful lighthouse stands at the tip of a cliff jutting into the East China Sea. There is a well-maintained walking trail from the parking lot to the lighthouse, though it has ups and downs, so comfortable shoes are necessary.
Photography Tips
The contrast between blue sky and white lighthouse in fair weather is beautiful and matches the atmosphere of the work. Wind is often very strong, so caution is necessary when using a tripod.
Takahama Beach
Appearance in the Work
Appears in flashback scenes from Episode 9 of the anime version, among others, as a beautiful beach with exceptional transparency.
Access Information
- Location: Kaizu, Miiraku-cho, Goto City, Nagasaki Prefecture
- Parking: Free parking lot at the beach (approximately 50 cars)
- Access: Approximately 40 minutes by car from Fukue Port
- Swimming Season: Mid-July through Late August
Selected as one of “Japan’s Best Shores” and “Japan’s 88 Best Beaches,” this is a representative beautiful beach of Goto. Emerald green sea and white sandy beach create a spectacular view.
Daienji Temple (Five-Story Pagoda)
Appearance in the Work
Regarded as the model for a temple that appears in the work.
Access Information
- Location: Okuura-cho, Goto City, Nagasaki Prefecture
- Parking: A few spaces in front of the temple
- Access: Approximately 15 minutes by car from Fukue Port
A temple characterized by a five-story pagoda built in the Meiji era.
Furusato-kan (Goto Tourism History Museum)
Appearance in the Work
The building exterior and surrounding scenery appear in the work.
Access Information
- Location: Ikeda-cho, Goto City, Nagasaki Prefecture
- Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
- Closed: Mondays (if a holiday, closed the following day)
- Admission: 200 yen for adults
- Parking: Available (free)
- Access: Approximately 10 minutes by car from Fukue Port
A museum where you can learn about Goto’s history and culture, allowing you to deepen your understanding of Goto between sacred site visits.
⑤Sacred Sites in Nagasaki City
Beyond the Goto Islands, there are important sacred sites in Nagasaki City.
Udon Shimaya (Model for Mashiro Udon)
Appearance in the Work
An actual udon restaurant that serves as the model for “Mashiro Udon,” which appears in the work. An important spot that appears multiple times in game and anime versions.
Store Information
- Location: Hamaguchi-cho, Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture
- Hours: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM (subject to change)
- Closed: Irregular holidays
- Parking: A few spaces in front of the store
- Access: Approximately 10 minutes by car from Nagasaki Station, approximately 5 minutes on foot from the “Hamaguchicho” tram stop
A popular restaurant serving Goto udon that has become established as a sacred site pilgrimage spot for work fans. Goto udon features thin noodles with good bite, characteristically eaten with ago-dashi (flying fish broth) with a gentle flavor.
Ordering Tips
If you want to recreate menu items that appear in the work, simple “kake udon” (noodle soup) or “kama-age udon” (freshly cooked udon) are recommended. During busy times, wait times occur, so visit with time to spare.
Other Spots in Nagasaki City
The townscapes and tram systems in Nagasaki City are also used as backgrounds in the work. You can enjoy sacred site pilgrimages combined with Nagasaki sightseeing before and after traveling to the Goto Islands.
Efficient Sacred Site Pilgrimage Model Courses
2 Nights, 3 Days Fukue Island-Centered Course
Day 1
- Nagasaki Airport → Fukue Airport
- Rent a car
- Fukue Shopping Arcade, Buke Yashiki Street, Daienji Temple, Furusato-kan
- Stay in Fukue City Center
Day 2
- Takahama Beach
- Osezaki Lighthouse
- Day trip to Kuka Island (using regular ferry)
- Stay in Fukue City Center
Day 3
- Day trip to Naru Island (Miya-no-hama Beach, Naru Sensho-jiki)
- Return rental car
- Fukue Airport → Nagasaki Airport
3 Nights, 4 Days Goto Islands North-to-South Course
Day 1
- Nagasaki Port → Nara-o Port (ferry)
- Rent a car
- Nara-o Port Terminal, Aosagaura Church
- Stay on Nakatsudori Island
Day 2
- Sacred sites tour of Nakatsudori Island (abandoned bus, Hamawaki Church, etc.)
- Ferry to Fukue Island
- Stay in Fukue City Center
Day 3
- Fukue Island sacred sites tour (Takahama Beach, Osezaki Lighthouse, etc.)
- Stay in Fukue City Center
Day 4
- Day trip to Naru Island or Kuka Island
- Fukue Airport → Nagasaki Airport or Fukue Port → Nagasaki Port
4 Nights, 5 Days Complete Tour Course
The above plus detailed exploration of Wakamatsu Island, staying overnight on each island, and sacred site pilgrimages in Nagasaki City. Recommended for those with plenty of time who want to visit sacred sites thoroughly.
Best Seasons and Precautions for Sacred Site Pilgrimages
Best Seasons
Spring (April – May)
- Pleasant and mild weather
- Fresh greenery is beautiful
- Golden Week is crowded, so early reservations for rental cars and accommodations are essential
Summer (July – August)
- Beach facilities open, allowing you to best experience the sea scenes in the work
- Typhoon season with risk of ferry cancellations
- Extremely crowded period
Fall (September – November)
- Relatively stable weather
- Fewer tourists, allowing leisurely pilgrimages
- Caution for typhoons in September
Winter (December – March)
- Fewest tourists, allowing quiet pilgrimages
- Sea conditions worsen, increasing possibility of ferry cancellations
- Cold weather precautions necessary
- Some facilities closed for winter
Precautions
Weather and Transportation
The Goto Islands are remote, so weather significantly impacts transportation. Ferries in particular may be cancelled due to sea conditions. Build flexibility into your schedule and set aside buffer days before and after.
Rental Car
Reservations become very difficult to obtain during busy seasons. Reserve at least one month in advance, preferably 2-3 months in advance for peace of mind. The number of gas stations is also limited, so refuel frequently.
Accommodations
Accommodation options on the Goto Islands are limited, and particularly on Nakatsudori and Naru Islands, choices are few. Early reservations are necessary. Fukue Island has the most abundant accommodation options.
Church Viewing
Churches are active religious facilities. Follow viewing etiquette, and contact churches in advance when prior contact is recommended. Viewing is not possible during Mass times.
Abandoned Bus
As it is situated on private land, unauthorized entry to the premises is strictly prohibited. Be considerate of neighborhood residents by not leaving trash or making noise.
What to Bring
- Comfortable walking shoes (walking is required to lighthouses and churches)
- Sunscreen and hat (strong sunlight)
- Warm clothing (winter, windy places)
- Camera and smartphone (don’t forget charger)
- Work reference materials (screenshots are convenient for identifying locations)
To Better Enjoy Your Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Previewing the Work
Visiting after playing the game version (PC, PS4, Switch versions) and watching the anime version allows you to better understand the meaning and importance of each location, making the experience even more moving.
Enjoying Local Cuisine
Goto Udon
Regarded as one of Japan’s three great udon, featuring thin noodles. It is characteristically eaten with ago-dashi (flying fish broth).
Goto Beef
Black Japanese beef raised on the Goto Islands. Tender with rich umami flavor.
Fresh Seafood
Fish and shellfish caught in waters near Goto are exquisite. Particularly famous are horse mackerel, mackerel, and yellowtail.
Kankoroki
A traditional Goto sweet made with sweet potatoes. Perfect for souvenirs.
Regional Events
Goto City and Shinkamigoto Town occasionally hold work-related events. Check official websites and local tourism association information.
Photography Tips
Prepare screenshots in advance to help capture the same angles as scenes in the work. Atmosphere changes significantly between sunny and cloudy days, so checking weather forecasts and adjusting your visit schedule accordingly is one approach.
The Charm of Nagasaki Prefecture’s Goto Islands
Through sacred site pilgrimages, you can experience the Goto Islands’ rich nature, history, and culture. You will be able to feel why these islands became the setting for the work through UNESCO World Heritage churches, beautiful coastlines, and the warmth of island residents.
The Goto Islands are registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of “Hidden Christian Sites in the Nagasaki Region and the Onomichi Region,” preserving the history of Christians during the prohibition era. Learning about this historical background alongside your pilgrimage will create an even deeper travel experience.
Conclusion
The Goto Islands in Nagasaki Prefecture, sacred sites for “Aokana: Four Rhythms Across the Blue,” is a fascinating place where beautiful nature and rich history merge. Work-related spots are scattered across Fukue Island, Nakatsudori Island, Kuka Island, Naru Island, and Wakamatsu Island, making it a sacred site that fans should visit at least once.
Successful sacred site pilgrimages require careful planning beforehand. Don’t neglect preparations such as early reservations for rental cars and accommodations, scheduling that considers weather, and confirming transportation between islands.
A sacred site pilgrimage to the Goto Islands, where you can actually experience the world of the work, will surely become an unforgettable memory. Through beautiful scenery, delicious food, and encounters with warm people, your love for the work will deepen.
Please use this guide as a reference and plan a trip to the sacred sites of “Aokana: Four Rhythms Across the Blue” in Nagasaki’s Goto Islands. A wonderful experience awaits you on these islands, where blue sky and blue sea spread out before you, immersed in the world of the work.
