【Detective Conan】Indigo-Colored Coffin – Kōzu Island (Tokyo)
The theatrical version “Detective Conan: Indigo-Colored Coffin (Jolly Roger)” is the 11th theatrical film released in 2007. The stage for this work, woven with beautiful sea and mysterious legends, is Kōzu Island in the Izu Islands, which belongs to Tokyo. This article introduces in detail must-see pilgrimage spots on Kōzu Island for Conan fans.
The Relationship Between “Indigo-Colored Coffin” and Kōzu Island
“Indigo-Colored Coffin” depicts mystery and adventure surrounding treasure sleeping at the bottom of the sea. The island that serves as the model for “Kamiumi Island (かみのうみじま)” that appears in the work is Kōzu Island, located approximately 180 km south of Tokyo.
Kōzu Island is positioned in the center of the Izu Islands and is characterized by its high water transparency, abundant nature, and unique topography. Though a small island with a population of about 2,000, it is also famous as a diving spot, and it’s understandable that it was chosen as the stage for the film, boasting remarkable beauty.
Overview of the Work
- Release Date: April 21, 2007
- Director: Taichiro Yamamoto
- Screenplay: Kanji Kashiwahara
- Box Office Revenue: 2.53 billion yen
- Main Characters: Shinichi Kudo/Conan Edogawa, Ran Mouri, Kogoro Mouri, Ai Haibara, Detective Boys
The story unfolds on Kamiumi Island in the Pacific Ocean, centering on mysteries and incidents surrounding the pirate treasure “Jolly Roger” said to have sunk to the bottom of the sea 300 years ago.
How to Access Kōzu Island
Before beginning your pilgrimage, let’s first confirm how to get to Kōzu Island.
Access by Ship
Tokai Kisen (Large Passenger Ship)
- Departure Point: Takeshiba Pier, Tokyo
- Travel Time: Approximately 10 hours (overnight service)
- Fare: Approximately 7,000 yen and up for second-class one-way (varies by season)
- Operation: Almost daily service
High-Speed Jet Ferry
- Departure Points: Takeshiba Pier/Tokyo, Atami, Shimoda
- Travel Time: Approximately 3 hours 45 minutes from Takeshiba
- Fare: Approximately 13,000 yen and up one-way
- Operation: Primarily in summer; possible cancellations due to weather
Access by Airplane
Shin-Chuo Airline (Cessna)
- Departure Point: Chofu Airport
- Travel Time: Approximately 45 minutes
- Fare: Approximately 15,000 yen and up one-way
- Capacity: 9 passengers (small aircraft; reservations may be difficult)
Notes on Access
- Weather Impact: Particularly in winter, rough seas lead to frequent ship cancellations
- Reservations: Early booking is essential during summer and Golden Week
- Round-Trip Tickets: Always secure your return ferry in advance
- Island Transportation: Advance reservations recommended for rental cars, scooters, and bicycles
Main Pilgrimage Spots on Kōzu Island
1. Maehama Beach (前浜海岸)
Scenes in the Film: Port area where Conan and friends arrive, swimming scenes
Maehama Beach, the main beach of Kōzu Island, is an important location appearing multiple times in the film. With its white sand and highly transparent emerald-green sea, it served as the model for the beautiful ocean scenes in the work.
Highlights:
- Shallow waters with high transparency
- Crowded with beach-goers during summer
- Popular sunset spot
Access: Approximately 15 minutes on foot from Kōzu Island Port, approximately 5 minutes by car
Pilgrimage Tip: Early morning or evening hours are recommended. You can photograph from the same angles as in the film.
2. Akasaki Promenade (赤崎遊歩道)
Scenes in the Film: Diving scenes, underwater exploration scenes
Akasaki Promenade is one of Kōzu Island’s representative tourist spots, a wooden walkway installed along the coastline. A jumping platform for direct ocean entry is also available, making it popular as a snorkeling spot.
Highlights:
- Unique coastline created by lava formations
- Exceptional water transparency for snorkeling
- Diving experience from the jump platform
Access: Approximately 10 minutes by car from Kōzu Island Port
Pilgrimage Tip: You can recall the diving scenes from the film while enjoying snorkeling. The underwater transparency is exceptional.
3. Tenjōsan Mountain (天上山)
Scenes in the Film: Panoramic views of the island, overhead shots
Tenjōsan Mountain, at 572 meters elevation, is the highest peak of Kōzu Island. At the summit, small ponds including “Tenjō no Ike” (Heaven’s Pond) and Fudō Pond are scattered, creating a mystical landscape. It served as the model for scenes overlooking the entire island in the film.
Highlights:
- 360-degree panoramic view from the summit
- Tenjō Pond (Fudō Pond, listed in New Tokyo’s Hundred Scenic Spots)
- Hakushima and desert-like landscapes
Climbing Information:
- Duration: Approximately 2 hours up, 1 hour 30 minutes down
- Difficulty: Intermediate (trails are maintained but have steep sections)
- Best Season: April through November
Access: From Kuroshima or Hakushima trailheads
Pilgrimage Tip: Early morning climbing to watch sunrise from the summit allows you to experience the mystical atmosphere of the film.
4. Takōwan Bay (多幸湾)
Scenes in the Film: Underwater cave exploration scenes
Takōwan Bay, located in the northeastern part of Kōzu Island, is a cove famous as a diving spot. Characterized by complex underwater topography and abundant marine life, it served as an image source for the underwater exploration scenes in the film.
Highlights:
- Renowned diving and snorkeling destination
- Underwater rock formations and cave terrain
- Abundant fish and marine life
Access: Approximately 15 minutes by car from Kōzu Island Port
Pilgrimage Tip: With a diving license, you can experience underwater exploration similar to the film. Without a license, you can still enjoy it through trial diving.
5. Kōzu Island Port
Scenes in the Film: Arrival and departure scenes of Conan and friends
Kōzu Island Port, appearing at the beginning and end of the story, is also the starting point of the pilgrimage. The actual atmosphere of the port closely resembles the film’s depiction, immersing you in the film’s world from the moment of arrival.
Highlights:
- Pier where large ships dock
- Shopping area around the port
- Landscape of fishing boats lined up
Access: Island gateway
Pilgrimage Tip: If arriving by ship, photographing the port coming into view from the deck is recommended.
6. Sawajiri Bay (沢尻湾)
Scenes in the Film: Twilight scenes, quiet inlet scenes
Sawajiri Bay, located in the southwestern part of Kōzu Island, is a quiet inlet. Known as a spot with beautiful sunsets, it served as the model for the impressively twilit scenes in the film.
Highlights:
- Sunset view
- Quiet and peaceful atmosphere
- Fishing spot
Access: Approximately 20 minutes by car from Kōzu Island Port
Pilgrimage Tip: Visiting in the evening is best. You can photograph the same beautiful twilight scenery as in the film.
Kōzu Island’s Underwater Spots (Diving)
Since “Indigo-Colored Coffin” features underwater treasure as a crucial element, actually experiencing diving at Kōzu Island allows you to savor the film’s world more deeply.
Major Diving Spots
1. Miurawan
- Characteristics: Beginner-friendly, calm waters
- Highlights: Colorful tropical fish, soft coral
- Depth: 5m to 15m
2. Nagahama
- Characteristics: Intermediate level, dropoff present
- Highlights: Large pelagic fish, high sea turtle encounter rate
- Depth: 10m to 30m
3. Okinone
- Characteristics: Advanced level, tidal currents present
- Highlights: Hammerhead sharks (if lucky), large fish hunting
- Depth: 15m to 40m
Diving Services
Multiple diving shops on Kōzu Island accommodate everything from trial diving to fun diving.
- Trial Diving: Approximately 10,000 to 15,000 yen
- Fun Diving (2 boats): Approximately 12,000 to 15,000 yen
- Equipment Rental: Full set approximately 5,000 yen and up
Reservations: Advance booking is essential, as summer periods are crowded.
Recommended Pilgrimage Itineraries
1-Day, 2-Night Course
Day 1
- 9:00 AM Arrival at Kōzu Island Port (via high-speed ferry)
- 9:30 AM Rental car/scooter pickup
- 10:00 AM Memorial photo at Maehama Beach
- 11:00 AM Snorkeling at Akasaki Promenade
- 1:00 PM Lunch (seafood at island restaurants)
- 2:30 PM Sightseeing around Takōwan Bay
- 4:00 PM Sunset viewing at Sawajiri Bay
- 6:00 PM Hotel check-in
- 7:00 PM Dinner
Day 2
- 6:00 AM Tenjōsan Mountain climb begins
- 9:00 AM Summit arrival, scenic enjoyment
- 11:00 AM Descent
- 12:00 PM Lunch
- 1:00 PM Souvenir shopping
- 2:00 PM Departure from Kōzu Island Port (high-speed ferry)
2-Day, 3-Night Course (Including Diving)
Day 1
- 10:00 PM Departure from Takeshiba Pier (large ship, overnight service)
Day 2
- 8:30 AM Arrival at Kōzu Island Port
- 9:00 AM Hotel check-in (early accommodation available at most inns)
- 10:00 AM Morning diving (2 dives)
- 1:00 PM Lunch
- 2:00 PM Exploring Maehama Beach and Akasaki Promenade
- 5:00 PM Hot spring (Kōzu Island Hot Spring Wellness Center)
- 7:00 PM Dinner
Day 3
- 6:00 AM Tenjōsan Mountain climb
- 10:00 AM Descent, breakfast
- 12:00 PM Touring Takōwan Bay and Sawajiri Bay
- 3:00 PM Souvenir shopping
- 4:00 PM Departure from Kōzu Island Port (high-speed ferry)
Gourmet Food and Souvenirs of Kōzu Island
Must-Try Local Specialties
1. Golden-eye Fish Dishes
The waters around Kōzu Island are a prime fishing ground for golden-eye fish. Fresh golden-eye fish simmered, sashimi are exquisite.
- Recommended Shops: Dining area in Yocchare Center, dinner at various inns
- Price: Golden-eye fish set meal 1,500 to 2,500 yen
2. Island Sushi
A local dish of the Izu Islands. Hand-rolled sushi made with fish marinated in soy sauce-based sauce.
- Recommended Shops: Island sushi restaurants, dining halls
- Price: Per serving 1,000 to 1,500 yen
3. Ashitaba (Tomorrow Leaf) Dishes
Kōzu Island specialty ashitaba prepared as tempura, boiled greens, etc.
- Recommended Shops: Various dining halls, inns
- Price: Ashitaba tempura 500 to 800 yen
Recommended Souvenirs
1. Ashitaba Products
- Ashitaba tea, ashitaba cookies, ashitaba soba
- Price: 500 to 1,500 yen
2. Salt
- Natural salt made from Kōzu Island seawater
- Price: 300 to 800 yen
3. Kusaya
- Traditional fermented food of the Izu Islands (warning: intense odor)
- Price: 1,000 to 2,000 yen
4. Shochu “Moriwaka”
- Sweet potato shochu from Kōzu Island
- Price: 1,500 to 3,000 yen
Accommodation Information
Kōzu Island offers various types of lodging.
Minshuku (Guesthouses) and Pensions
- Characteristics: Homey atmosphere, local island cuisine available
- Price: 8,000 to 12,000 yen per night with two meals
- Recommendation: Many inns pride themselves on seafood dishes
Hotels and Traditional Inns
- Characteristics: Full facilities, some with hot springs
- Price: 12,000 to 20,000 yen per night with two meals
- Recommendation: Inns adjacent to Kōzu Island Hot Spring Wellness Center
Campgrounds
- Facility: Kōzu Island Municipal Campground
- Price: 500 to 1,000 yen per night (tent sites)
- Equipment: Cooking area, toilets, showers available
Booking Tips
- Early Reservation: Especially July-August and Golden Week book months in advance
- Lodging-Only Plans: Meal-free plans available, but island dining options are limited
- Shuttle Service: Most inns offer shuttle service to the port
Pilgrimage Etiquette and Safety Notes
Island Rules and Etiquette
- Nature Protection: Always take trash with you; don’t pick plants
- Private Property: Do not enter without permission
- Noise: Keep quiet in residential areas
- Photography: Be considerate if locals appear in photos
Water Safety Notes
Precautions at Sea:
- Do not swim in no-swimming areas
- Check weather and wave conditions
- Avoid solo snorkeling or diving
- Life jacket use recommended
Mountain Safety Notes:
- Mountain report submission (voluntary but recommended)
- Carry sufficient water and food
- Turn back or stop if weather worsens
- Proper equipment like hiking boots essential
Weather and Seasonal Precautions
Summer (July-August):
- Advantages: Ideal for swimming and diving, high ferry operation rates
- Disadvantages: Crowded, higher accommodation prices, typhoon risk
Spring and Fall (April-June, September-November):
- Advantages: Relatively uncrowded, mild weather
- Disadvantages: Water temperature somewhat cool, limited high-speed ferry service
Winter (December-March):
- Advantages: Uncrowded, inexpensive lodging
- Disadvantages: Rough seas, frequent cancellations, cold, no swimming
History and Culture of Kōzu Island
To more deeply enjoy the pilgrimage, let’s learn about Kōzu Island’s history and culture.
Origin of Kōzu Island’s Name
Kōzu Island’s name derives from a myth in which the gods of the Izu Islands gathered to hold a conference on water distribution. The “Tenjō Pond” on Tenjōsan Mountain is said to have been the conference venue, and the island name supposedly evolved from “Kamitatsu Island (神が集う島)” meaning “Island Where Gods Gather” to “Kamitatsu Island” to “Kōzu Island.”
Major Historic Sites and Cultural Facilities
Monoimi-no-mikoto Shrine (物忌奈命神社)
- Shrine dedicated to Kōzu Island’s guardian deity
- Annual grand festival held in August
Yocchare Center
- Combined facility with tourism information, souvenir shops, and dining
- Exhibits on Kōzu Island’s history and culture
Local History Museum
- Exhibits of Kōzu Island’s history and folklore
- Free admission
Photo Spots and Instagram-Worthy Locations
Here are recommended spots to capture memories of your pilgrimage.
1. Tenjōsan Mountain Summit
- Best Time: Early morning (sunrise), clear days
- Photography Points: 360-degree panorama, Tenjō Pond
2. Akasaki Promenade
- Best Time: Morning (front lighting)
- Photography Points: Overlooking sea from walkway, diving scenes
3. Maehama Beach
- Best Time: Evening (sunset)
- Photography Points: Sand and sea gradation
4. Sawajiri Bay
- Best Time: Evening (sunset)
- Photography Points: Moment sun sinks into sea
Photography Tips
- Weather: Clear skies or light cloud cover ideal
- Time of Day: Early morning and evening side-light most dramatic
- Composition: Reference film scenes
- Waterproofing: Watch for saltwater and sand on coastal shoots
Combining with Nearby Islands
If time permits, visit nearby islands as well.
Shikine Island (式根島)
- Access from Kōzu Island: Approximately 15 minutes by ship
- Highlights: Natural hot springs (marine hot springs), beautiful beaches
Niijima (新島)
- Access from Kōzu Island: Approximately 30 minutes by ship
- Highlights: Surfing mecca, white sand beaches, Moyai statue
Ōshima (大島)
- Access from Kōzu Island: Approximately 2 hours by ship
- Highlights: Mount Mihara, camellia flowers, hot springs
Voices of Actual Pilgrims
Here are experiences shared by Conan fans who visited Kōzu Island.
Person A (20s, Female)
“Over 10 years after watching the film, I finally visited. Kōzu Island in reality exceeded my imagination, and the view from Tenjōsan Mountain was spectacular. The mystical atmosphere of the film was perfectly preserved.”
Person B (30s, Male)
“I obtained my diving license, then visited. The sea’s transparency was wonderful, allowing me to re-experience the underwater exploration from the film. The diving shop staff were kind and we had great Conan conversations.”
Person C (40s, Couple)
“We visited as a family with our children. Snorkeling at Akasaki Promenade was especially fun. The island’s people were warm, making us want to return.”
Conclusion: Maximizing Your Kōzu Island Pilgrimage Experience
Kōzu Island, the stage for “Detective Conan: Indigo-Colored Coffin,” is a wonderful pilgrimage site where you can experience the film’s world firsthand. Beautiful ocean, mystical mountains, and warm island residents await you.
Keys to Pilgrimage Success
- Advance Preparation: Early booking of accommodation and transportation
- Weather Monitoring: Especially check ship operation status
- Flexible Schedule: Allow extra days considering cancellation risks
- Equipment: Hiking boots, swimwear, sunscreen, waterproof camera, etc.
- Film Review: Watching the movie again before visiting enhances enjoyment
Final Thoughts
Kōzu Island, while a sacred site of “Indigo-Colored Coffin,” is simultaneously a compelling island possessing rich nature and culture. Through pilgrimage, not only does understanding of the work deepen, but you’ll discover the island’s charm itself.
Conan fans, please visit Kōzu Island and immerse yourselves in the film’s world. It will surely become an unforgettable memory.
Plan carefully and visit with respect for the island. Enjoy your wonderful pilgrimage journey!
