Japan’s NHK Shows Alonissos as Island with Many Different ‘Faces’

The Greek island of Alonissos, part of the Sporades group, and the variety of experiences and attractions it offers were recently presented by NHK, Japan’s public TV and radio broadcaster.

NHK highlighted Alonissos as a destination that has different “faces” to offer, which can meet the demands and expectations of Japanese travelers.

The network presented the island’s villages, blue and green sea, local cuisine, hospitable locals and unique nature.

Alonissos Underwater Museum

The Japanese channel also featured Alonissos’ underwater museum – the first of its kind in Greece  – located off the island’s coast.

Operating since 2020, the museum features one of the largest Classical-era shipwrecks dating back to 425 – 420 BC. It was discovered in 1985 at a depth of 25 meters off the coast of the islet Peristera.

The ship was carrying around 3,000 amphorae with wines from Mendi (an ancient city in Halkidiki) and Peparithos (today’s Skopelos island).

Photo source: @Municipality of Alonissos

The commercial vessel is said to have belonged to an Athenian merchant and seemed to have run into a storm while sailing near the coast, where it eventually sank. Another plausible theory is that a fire broke out on deck and caused the sinking of the ship.

Open during the summer season, Alonissos’ Underwater Museum welcomes recreational divers who have the opportunity to explore it under the guidance of experienced instructors.

Alonissos becoming an alternative destination

NHK’s feature of Alonissos followed a press trip organized recently with the support of the Alonissos Municipality.

“We promote our rich diving features and Alonissos’ other unique attractions such as its marine park – the largest in the Mediterranean. In addition, we promote the island to markets outside Europe – in Asia, Australia and the US,” Alonissos Mayor Petros Vafinis said.

According to Vafinis, Alonissos is gradually becoming an international alternative destination attracting more visitors every year.

“The island’s August occupancy rates are exceptional with travelers coming both from Greece and abroad and we expect the tourism season to extend through to early October,” he added.