35 Mysterious Abandoned Places Around the World You Can Still Visit

2. Hashima Island, Japan: The Ghost of Gunkanjima

Hashima Island, also known as Gunkanjima or Battleship Island, is a stark symbol of Japan's rapid industrialization. Located off the coast of Nagasaki, this island was once a bustling coal mining facility, home to thousands of workers and their families. At its peak in the mid-20th century, Hashima was one of the most densely populated places on Earth. However, with the decline of coal mining, the island was abandoned in 1974. Today, its crumbling concrete structures and narrow alleyways are slowly succumbing to the elements. The island's eerie silhouette against the sea draws curious explorers and film crews alike, providing a haunting backdrop for movies like "Skyfall." Visitors can now take guided tours to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site, experiencing firsthand the stark contrast between past prosperity and present desolation.