Ghost Island of Hashima: how a blooming city became a symbol of doom (11 photos + 1 video)

In Japan, 15 kilometers from the shores of Nagasaki, there is a place that attracts researchers, photographers and lovers of dark stories. This is the island of Hashima, better known as Gunkanjima (or cruiser because of its shape).





It gained its fame not only due to its unique architecture, but also due to the tragic history that turned it from one of the most densely populated places on the planet into a real ghost town.

The Golden Age of Hashima



The island's history began in the late 19th century, when rich coal deposits were discovered beneath its surface. At the time, coal was the main source of energy for industry and transportation, and Hashima quickly became a major resource center. Mitsubishi, which owned the mines, began to actively develop the island, building residential buildings, schools, hospitals, restaurants, and movie theaters.

By the mid-20th century, the island's population had reached its peak - about 5,300 people on an area of ​​only 6.3 hectares. This made Hashima the most densely populated place in the world: the population density here was 9 times higher than in Tokyo at the time. People lived in multi-story concrete buildings, which became the first examples of modern high-rise construction in Japan.





However, life on the island was not easy. Mining work was dangerous and grueling. Many workers came here from different parts of Japan, and during World War II, Mitsubishi forced Korean and Chinese labor, which became one of the darkest and most gloomy pages in the history of the island.

Reasons for the Decline



Despite its prosperity, Hashima became a hostage to its own success. Gradually, the world began to switch to cheaper and more environmentally friendly energy sources, such as oil and gas. Coal became less in demand, and the mines on the island began to lose their economic value.

In 1974, Mitsubishi officially announced the closure of the mines on Hashima. For most residents, this was a signal to leave. Within weeks, the island was empty. People left their homes, leaving everything in place: furniture, toys, books, and even personal belongings. Hashima turned into a ghost town, as if the residents had simply disappeared.

Abandoned World



Today, Hashima is an eerie and at the same time fascinating monument to the industrial era. Concrete buildings are slowly crumbling under the influence of time and the elements. Nature is gradually reclaiming its rightful territory: trees are breaking through cracks in the asphalt, and the windows of the houses resemble empty eye sockets.



The island still contains traces of the past: classrooms with dusty desks, hospital wards with rusty beds, movie theaters with half-destroyed screens. Every corner of Hashima holds the history of the people who once lived, worked and dreamed of a better future here

Tourism and Cultural Heritage



For a long time, access to the island was prohibited due to the danger of the collapse of buildings and the possible presence of toxic substances. However, in 2009, parts of the area were opened to tourists. Today, Gunkanjima tours are a popular destination for those interested in abandoned places and history.



In 2015, Hashima became a UNESCO World Heritage Site. However, this status has been controversial, with many critics pointing out that the island's history of forced labor of Koreans and Chinese should be properly recognized.

Why is Hashima so attractive?



Hashima is more than just an abandoned island; it is a symbol of an era when humanity sought to conquer nature for the sake of progress. Its history reminds us of how quickly the world changes: places that were once centers of life and activity can turn into ruins in a matter of decades.



For some, Hashima is a place to feel the spirit of the past and reflect on the fragility of human labor. For others, it is the perfect backdrop for films and video games. It was here that scenes from the film "007: Skyfall" were filmed, where the island became the lair of the main antagonist.



Hashima Island is a tangible reminder of how times change and people pass away, leaving behind only memories and ruins. This lost world continues to attract attention from around the world, telling a story not only of industrial boom, but also of the fragility of existence.