Gunkanjima is an abandoned metropolis that is almost beyond your imagination. Despite a history that justifies its crazy evolution (see my summary article for the history of Hashima Island), the reality is hard to believable; the Island, yet tiny , is a fabulous labyrinth of avenues, streets and lanes with overhead bridges on top of each other. To discover this very special geography of Gunkanjima, I suggest a short hike under a beautiful spring sunshine and a pleasant breeze from the sea.
First surprise: the ground is full of garbage, broken wood, bits of cement corroded by the ocean air. We were not expecting any sound effect, but there was; the waves breaking on the walls of the island, birds screaming, rats rattling in basements and door slamming by themselves…
Two apartment blocks are connected by walkways that appear extremely intense … Is this an original style by an insane architect? Or is this a configuration for pure practical reasons?
In a distance this giant bridge summons us…
Apocalyptic scenes in a row …
Arriving at the legendary staircase; the “Stairway to Hell”. The last time, I did not have time to go, but things are different now…
There are stunning views from all sides.
We climbed back down to those old apartments covered in vegetation. I have been looking forward to exploring them…
We’re back down in front of the remains of what was particularly the nurses’ dormitory. It seems that there was a fire.
Wedged between two concrete monoliths… that are about to collapse.
The sun begins to set and bathed the island in an orange tone.
A quick look at the apartments that we have previously seen from above… we found ourselves again in front of the fantastic staircase
Instead we chose to admire the sunset, sitting on the crumbled stairs…
… stunned.
And before the island is completely plunged into darkness, here is one last magical moment, at the entrance of the delusional Block X.
If you want to discover more about Gunkanjima, visit my summary here: Gunkanjima: 10 Stories, 200 Photos.
And for more awesome content about Japan, follow Jordy Meow on Instagram ! 🎵
Good photos. Less scarier than the one by night ^^
Thank you Sylvain~ ^^ I am glad you like that one, a lot of people said the same thing. At night, it was not that scary actually. It is a bit dangerous because you do not really see what you are stepping on. ><
Regarding to extra equipment, we actually do not have any. Other more careful people actually have some (special gloves, masks .etc), but we do not…Cameras and lenses are enough weight to carry. 😛
Awesome report Jordy, i would like to visit it someday. Probably next october or next year i will travel to there for it. I will notice to you.
Greetings and congrats for this report!
Thank you very much 🙂 This is the first report and there are 9 more to come! Good luck on getting there 🙂
Thank you very much 🙂 This is the first report and there are 9 more to come! I guess you’re already ask one of our mutual friend to get you there so good luck with it, urbex is indeed a world full of luck, tricks and patience 😉 And in Japan, it gets extrapolated.
Nice pictures. I really like Jing’s picture, really looks like a film poster.
The last one gives me the chills.
Glad this article brings your emotions out! And wow, I’m impressed, you’ve just moved but already online 🙂 Take care and good luck 🙂
Glad this article brings your emotions out! And wow, I’m impressed, you’ve just moved but already online 🙂 Take care and good luck 🙂
Amazing urban exploration session.
Really liked it.
Thanks Alessando. There is more to come but I’m still working on it 🙂
Great. I look forward to it.
Great photos Jordy. Well done!
Thanks a lot MJG! You responsible for having me getting started at the first place, so any complain about my explorations will be redirected to you 🙂
Nice repo + very nice photos
Thanks a lot Stef, there are more to come 🙂
Nice
Thanks Evan 🙂
Thanks for sharing 🙂 All these made me explored to the other part of the world…Appreciate it…Will definitely keep updating your site 🙂
Thanks a lot @pearlloi:disqus ^^
Awesome ! Thanks for letting us see a bit of that magnificent site .
Definitely the kind of place I’d love to lightpaint, along with Pripiat ^^
Would love to go back and spend more time on light-painting ^^
How were you able to tour around? Who do I need to know? 🙂
In the right order: swimming, climbing, hiding. Some tried helicopter but they got shot…
Very informative. Thank you.