Tanegashima

Tanegashima is an inhabited island off the southern coast of Kyushu in Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan. It covers about 445 square kilometers and has a population in the tens of thousands. The island is administered as two municipalities: Nishinoomote City in the north and Minamitane Town in the south. It is known for its historical significance in the introduction of firearms to Japan and for the presence of JAXA’s Tanegashima Space Center.

In 1543, a Portuguese ship landed on Tanegashima and a gunner demonstrated a matchlock firearm to local lords. The weapon became known in Japan as tanegashima teppo, and firearms soon spread across the country. The event gave the island a lasting association with firearms. During the Edo period, Tanegashima was part of the Satsuma Domain and later became part of modern Kagoshima Prefecture.

Geographically, Tanegashima runs roughly north to south and features a rugged coastline, beaches, and green hills. The climate is humid subtropical, with mild winters and hot summers. The economy combines agriculture (notably sugarcane and vegetables), fishing, tourism, and high-tech activities centered on the Tanegashima Space Center, which is operated by JAXA and serves as a base for satellite launches and rocket testing.

Transportation is by air or sea: Tanegashima Airport provides flights to Kagoshima and other destinations, while ferries connect to Kagoshima City and other ports. The island’s scenery and space-related facilities attract visitors for sightseeing, natural attractions, and tours related to space exploration.