🏝️ Okinoshima Island (隠岐の島)
A Hidden Island of Nature, History, and Sacred Traditions in the Sea of Japan
Okinoshima Island, located about 60 km off the coast of Shimane Prefecture, is the largest of the Oki Islands — a remote archipelago in the Sea of Japan. Known for its rugged coastal landscapes, ancient traditions, and peaceful rural life, the island offers a rare chance to experience untouched Japan.
🌊 Nature & Scenery
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🏞️ The island is part of the Daisen-Oki National Park, known for its dramatic cliffs, sea caves, and volcanic rock formations.
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🌿 You’ll find lush forests, crystal-clear seas, and rare wildlife like the Oki salamander.
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⛰️ Don’t miss the Matengai Cliff, one of Japan’s highest sea cliffs, offering breathtaking ocean views.
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🐄 Traditional Oki beef cattle roam the meadows — a unique local sight.
🏯 Culture & History
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⛩️ Tamawakasu-mikoto Shrine, the island’s spiritual heart, is closely tied to ancient Shinto beliefs.
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⚓ Exile Island: Okinoshima was once a place of exile for Japanese emperors and nobles, including Emperor Go-Toba in the 13th century.
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🌀 Local festivals like the Goreisen-sai celebrate ocean spirits with sacred rituals passed down for centuries.
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🐟 Fishing, seaweed farming, and traditional crafts still shape local life today.
🚢 How to Get There
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⛴️ By ferry: Take a ferry from Shichirui Port (Shimane) or Sakaiminato Port (Tottori) to Saigō Port (Okinoshima’s main port)
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✈️ By air: Flights available from Izumo Airport to Oki Airport
🧭 Things to Do
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🛶 Go sea kayaking or take a boat tour of sea caves and cliffs
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🚲 Rent a bike or car to explore the scenic island roads
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🧘♀️ Experience Shinto rituals, local festivals, or simply slow island life
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🐟 Enjoy fresh seafood and regional specialties like Oki beef
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📷 Capture stunning photos of sunsets, starry skies, and coastal scenery
🎯 Why Visit Okinoshima?
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🌊 Discover one of Japan’s most beautiful and remote islands
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🏯 Step into centuries-old spiritual traditions
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🚶♂️ Explore untouched nature and hiking trails
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🐄 Witness island life rooted in history, agriculture, and fishing
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📸 Perfect for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and culture enthusiasts
Okinoshima is more than a destination — it’s a place where time slows down, and visitors are welcomed into a world of natural beauty, spiritual depth, and island hospitality.
Official Website
https://www.town.okinoshima.shimane.jp/www/genre/1427250040757/index.html
Accommodation sites
Agoda
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