Gotō Sea

The Gotō Sea is a marine region in the western waters of Nagasaki Prefecture that contains numerous islands and diverse marine habitats. The waters support varied ecosystems including coral formations and many fish species.

During the Edo period, the waters around the Gotō Islands were important shipping routes for trade between Japan and neighboring Asian countries. This maritime role shaped the development of the islands and their connections to other regions.

Fishing communities on the islands here practice time-honored methods of seafood preparation that vary from place to place. Each island has developed its own cooking traditions that shape daily life and meals for residents.

Ferry services connect multiple ports throughout the region, providing transportation for residents and visitors between the main islands and coastal settlements. The best time to visit is when weather conditions are stable, as ferry services can be affected by rough seas.

In this area, warm and cold ocean currents meet and create conditions where marine species from the north and south coexist side by side. This mixing of waters makes the ecosystem unusual and rich in biodiversity.