Tanfiliev Island, Protected island in Yuzhno-Kurilsky District, Russia and Nemuro Subprefecture, Japan.
Tanfiliev Island is an uninhabited landmass in the Yuzhno-Kurilsky District and Nemuro Subprefecture with a flat landscape spanning approximately 12 square kilometers. The terrain contains several lagoon lakes and coastal grasslands that characterize its natural layout.
The territory passed to Japanese control in 1855 following the Treaty of Shimoda after previously belonging to the Russian Empire. Soviet forces took over in 1945, establishing a military presence that has continued since.
The Japanese name Suishō comes from the Ainu language and appears in historical village records from the 1830s. This linguistic connection reflects the indigenous presence that shaped the island's early identity.
The island remains off-limits to the public and is managed by Russian military personnel. Visitors cannot access or reach this location since it operates under military administration.
Historical records show a last population of around 1,000 residents living in roughly 150 households who raised herds of horses and operated seasonal fishing. This settlement pattern ended when military operations replaced civilian habitation.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
