Introduction
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Hashima, also known as Gunkanjima (or “Battleship Island”), is a small, abandoned island located about 15 kilometers from Nagasaki, Japan.
It was once a thriving city, home to over 5,000 residents and a bustling coal mining operation. Today, however, the island is a shadow of its former self, a decaying and eerily quiet ghost town.
History of Hashima
Hashima’s history dates back to the late 1800s, when coal was discovered on the island. The Mitsubishi Corporation quickly acquired the rights to mine the coal and began constructing a city on the island to house the workers and their families.
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At its peak in the 1950s and 60s, Hashima had a population of over 5,000 people and was one of the most densely populated places in the world.
The island was a self-contained community, with apartments, schools, hospitals, and even a movie theater. The coal mining operation was also highly advanced, with state-of-the-art machinery and an extensive network of tunnels.
However, as the demand for coal began to decline in the 1960s, the mine on Hashima was closed and the residents were forced to leave the island. The buildings quickly fell into disrepair, and the island was left abandoned for decades.
The Island today
Today, Hashima is a popular tourist destination, known for its eerie and abandoned buildings. Visitors can take a boat tour around the island and see the crumbling apartments, the overgrown playgrounds, and the rusted machinery.
The island is also the subject of much debate and controversy. Some argue that the island should be preserved as a historical site, while others argue that it should be demolished to make way for new development.
The Japanese government has designated Hashima as a special preservation district and is working to restore some of the buildings and improve the infrastructure of the island. However, the island is still not open to the public, and visitors can only see the island from a boat tour.
The Future of Hashima
The future of Hashima is uncertain. While the Japanese government is working to preserve the island as a historical site, it is unclear if the island will ever be opened to the public.
Many argue that the island should be developed into a tourist destination, with hotels, restaurants, and shops. Others argue that the island should be left as is, a haunting reminder of the past.
In Popular Culture
Hashima has been featured in several movies and TV shows, such as James Bond film “Skyfall” and the Korean drama “Age of Youth 2”. The island has also been the subject of several books and documentaries.
Its unique architecture and eerie atmosphere have made it a popular destination for photographers and urban explorers.
Conclusion
Hashima is a fascinating and unique place, with a rich history and a mysterious present. The island’s abandoned buildings and overgrown streets offer a glimpse into the past, and the island’s uncertain future raises many questions about preservation and development. Whether you’re a history buff, an urban explorer, or just someone looking for a unique and eerie experience, Hashima is definitely worth a visit.
References
https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e4812.html
BBC.com/travel/destination/asia/japan/nagasaki/hashima-island
