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…
Gunkanjima: Stairway To Hell
Gunkanjima: Footbridge
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…
Gunkanjima: Footbridge
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
Gunkanjima: Stairway To Hell
Gunkanjima: Stairway To Hell
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.
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