Hashima

Hashima is an abandoned island located in Nagasaki Prefecture, Japan. Once a thriving industrial town, the island was home to a population of around 5,000 people who worked in the island's coal and cement mines. The island's economy was dependent on the mining industry, which brought in a large influx of migrant workers from other parts of Japan.

The island was developed in the early 20th century by the Japanese Mitsubishi Company, which built a series of apartment buildings, schools, hospitals, and other facilities to support the growing population. The island's infrastructure was designed to be self-sufficient, with its own stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

However, the island's fortunes began to decline in the 1960s as the coal reserves began to run out and the cement industry moved to other locations. The island's population declined significantly, and by the 1970s, it was largely abandoned. Today, the island remains a ghost town, with many of its buildings still standing in a state of disrepair.

Hashima Island has become a popular tourist destination due to its unique and atmospheric appearance. Visitors can see the island's abandoned buildings and explore its streets and alleys. The island has also inspired several films and books, including the 2010 film "Shin Godzilla", which features the island as a key location.

Hashima Island was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015, recognizing its cultural and historical significance. The site is managed by the Nagasaki Prefectural Government, which has implemented measures to protect the island's environment and preserve its cultural heritage.