To the mysterious island to encounter some of the most spectacular and breathtaking scenery in Japan

A healing journey among majestic scenery and gourmet island treats

Located some 50km off the Shimane peninsula are the Oki islands, designated a UNESCO Global Geopark in recognition of its abundant local resources including its geology and natural environment. Even amid the “treasure box” that is the scenery of the Oki islands, the Matengai cliff is a sight to behold. Standing at 257m, it looks like a piece of cake recently cut by a knife. Formed by the erosion of the wind and waves of the Sea of Japan over millennia, it is Japan’s highest cliff. I defy anyone not to lose all track of time as they gaze over a harmonious panorama of indigo sea, diving cliffs and dazzling blue sky.(This information is as of December 2017)

You may encounter horses and cattle roaming the fields

Tsutenkyo, the natural rock arch

Gaining a lot of attention recently as “miraculous scenery” is Rosoku-jima (Candle Island), a 20m high rock formation sitting off the coast. Enjoy a scenic cruise as you wait for the sun to set, forming a beautiful rose palette on the water. Then, for a moment, the sun is shines above the tip of the rock, forming a resplendent scene: it appears as if a giant candle has lit up. Of course it depends on the weather but those who witness the natural lantern will find the dreamy spectacle has a heart-warming effect.

The 800-year old giant Iwakura Chichi-sugi (“breast”) tree, with 24 large and small bosom-shaped appendages on its trunk

The Oki Islands are known for their succulent seafood. At Ryoba, a small restaurant run by a fishing family, sample the 1,080 yen Sazae-donburi (tenderly boiled sazae turban shell with a splash of dashi served on a steaming bowl of rice) or the 1,200 yen Shiroika-donburi, raw squid and egg mixed with a secret soy-based sauce and hot rice. This is truly a place to enjoy fishermen’s cooking that makes the most of the flavor of fresh seafood.

Shiroika-donburi is served only when squid has been caught

The Oki Islands are known for their succulent seafood. At Ryoba, a small restaurant run by a fishing family, sample the 1,080 yen Sazae-donburi (tenderly boiled sazae turban shell with a splash of dashi served on a steaming bowl of rice) or the 1,200 yen Shiroika-donburi, raw squid and egg mixed with a secret soy-based sauce and hot rice. This is truly a place to enjoy fishermen’s cooking that makes the most of the flavor of fresh seafood.

Oki Islands
Contact
Oki Islands Tourism Association
TEL
+81-8512-2-1577(Oki Islands Tourism Association)
URL
Website
Acsess
Flights from Osaka (Itami) and Izumo to Oki Islands Global Geopark Airport. Ferries from Sakaiminato and Shichirui take around 2.5 hours, high-speed ferries take around 1.5 hours
Adress
Matengai cliff [Map] Tsutenkyo [map]

MAP

MAP

Rosoku-jima Cruise Lines
Adress
Meeting point is Fukuura Pier (harbor)[Fukuura Pier (harbor)-Map] or Akasaki Pier (harbor) [Akasaki Pier (harbor)-Map]
TEL
+81-8512-2-0787 (Okinoshima Town Tourist Association)
Open
Departure time varies according to time of sunset
Closed
Weather permitting. No cruises from November to March
URL
Website
Credit card
not accepted
Remarks
*Booking required by day before departure
*Junior high students and older 3,000 yen, elementary school students 1,500 yen, free for pre-schoolers
*Passengers are required to be at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before departure time

MAP

MAP

Oki Plaza Hotel
Adress
11-1 Minato-machi, Okinoshima-cho, Oki-gun, Shimane [Map]
TEL
+81-8512-2-0111
Parking
10
URL
Website
Acsess
5 minutes’ walk from Saigo Port, around 10 minutes’ drive from Oki Islands Global Geopark Airport
Credit card
accepted
Remarks
Two per room, one night with two meals, from 16,500 yen per person

MAP

Ryoba, Fukimaru Fish Center
Adress
58 Menukinoyon, Naka-machi, Okinoshima-cho, Oki-gun, Shimane [Map]
TEL
+81-8512-2-6600
Open
11:00-14:00 *Bookings required
Closed
Tuesdays
Seats
60
Parking
5
Acsess
2 minutes’ walk from Saigo Port, around 10 minutes’ drive from Oki Islands Global Geopark Airport

MAP

Features

Kagawa Prefecture is known as the gateway to Shikoku. Its capital is Takamatsu City, home to a wide range of interesting sightseeing spots. With famous local dishes such as Sanuki udon and Kagawa-style chicken drumstick, and a wide range of lovingly-made traditional handcrafts that make excellent souvenirs, the city is well worth visiting. RELATED ARTICLES
TAKAMATSU
Kagawa Prefecture is known as the gateway to Shikoku. Its capital is Takamatsu City, home to a wide range of interesting sightseeing spots. With famous local dishes such as Sanuki udon and Kagawa-style chicken drumstick, and a wide range of lovingly-made traditional handcrafts that make excellent souvenirs, the city is well worth visiting.
Onomichi is a quaint town located along the Seto Inland Sea in eastern Hiroshima Prefecture. Onomichi was certified as as Japanese Heritage on 2017. The town extends from the mainland across some of the neighboring islands.Small ferries operate between the downtown area and the nearby islands, adding to Onomichi's nostalgic port town atmosphere. RELATED ARTICLES
ONOMICHI
Onomichi is a quaint town located along the Seto Inland Sea in eastern Hiroshima Prefecture. Onomichi was certified as as Japanese Heritage on 2017. The town extends from the mainland across some of the neighboring islands.Small ferries operate between the downtown area and the nearby islands, adding to Onomichi's nostalgic port town atmosphere.
Free gourmet booklet with a map, "Night-time Food & Drinks Guide" available at hotels around Okayama Station. Check out here (website) for more details about the cafes, bars and restaurants around Okayama Station recommended by local editors published Night-time Food & Drinks Guide. RELATED ARTICLES
Night-time Food & Drinks Guide
Free gourmet booklet with a map, "Night-time Food & Drinks Guide" available at hotels around Okayama Station. Check out here (website) for more details about the cafes, bars and restaurants around Okayama Station recommended by local editors published Night-time Food & Drinks Guide.

Themes

Japan's one and only enclosed sea, the Seto Inland Sea. It contains over 700 islands, each with a culture and cuisine blessed by mountains and sea. It's so beautiful that some call it "the Aegean Sea of the East." RELATED ARTICLES
SETO INLAND SEA
Japan's one and only enclosed sea, the Seto Inland Sea. It contains over 700 islands, each with a culture and cuisine blessed by mountains and sea. It's so beautiful that some call it "the Aegean Sea of the East."
As an island nation, unique cultural forms have developed in Japan. Traditional Japanese homes, where you can experience the earth and wood beloved of old Japan, are on trend worldwide. Enjoy these somehow comforting and soothing spaces. RELATED ARTICLES
JAPANESE TRADITION
As an island nation, unique cultural forms have developed in Japan. Traditional Japanese homes, where you can experience the earth and wood beloved of old Japan, are on trend worldwide. Enjoy these somehow comforting and soothing spaces.
Western Japan has mesmerizing sights you have never glimpsed before,from the islands in the vast waters of the Seto Inland Sea to the ancient castles rising into the sky and rivers that will make you sense eternity. RELATED ARTICLES
AMAZING VIEWS
Western Japan has mesmerizing sights you have never glimpsed before,from the islands in the vast waters of the Seto Inland Sea to the ancient castles rising into the sky and rivers that will make you sense eternity.
Western Japan is dotted with spiritual “power spots”, including the Shikoku pilgrimage ("Ohenro") of 88 sacred sites, and Itsukushima Shrine, a religious center and UNESCO World Heritage Site. RELATED ARTICLES
SPIRITUAL JOURNEYS
Western Japan is dotted with spiritual “power spots”, including the Shikoku pilgrimage ("Ohenro") of 88 sacred sites, and Itsukushima Shrine, a religious center and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
There is nothing better than sampling the local seasonal flavors and specialties of a region. There are so many kinds of local cuisine Western Japan. Be sure to taste the foods beloved by locals when you take a trip RELATED ARTICLES
LOCAL FLAVORS
There is nothing better than sampling the local seasonal flavors and specialties of a region. There are so many kinds of local cuisine Western Japan. Be sure to taste the foods beloved by locals when you take a trip
With its warm climate, West Japan has many fruit-producing regions, including Okayama, "the fruit kingdom," famous as the top producer of white peaches and Muscat grapes. You can savor sumptuous sweet treats using lavish portions of seasonal fruit such as parfaits and shaved ice. RELATED ARTICLES
PREMIUM FRUITS
With its warm climate, West Japan has many fruit-producing regions, including Okayama, "the fruit kingdom," famous as the top producer of white peaches and Muscat grapes. You can savor sumptuous sweet treats using lavish portions of seasonal fruit such as parfaits and shaved ice.
The exquisite beauty of the blooming cherry blossoms, and also their transient beauty as the petals fall, has been revered in the literature and aesthetic concepts of Japan since ancient times. Spring in Japan is the perfect time to immerse yourself in its hanami (flower viewing) culture, when friends and family gather under the cherry blossom trees and appreciate the beauty of the flowers while drinking and eating merrily. RELATED ARTICLES
SAKURA
The exquisite beauty of the blooming cherry blossoms, and also their transient beauty as the petals fall, has been revered in the literature and aesthetic concepts of Japan since ancient times. Spring in Japan is the perfect time to immerse yourself in its hanami (flower viewing) culture, when friends and family gather under the cherry blossom trees and appreciate the beauty of the flowers while drinking and eating merrily.
The culture of therapeutic bathing and mind by relaxing in a hot bath amid beautiful ever-changing scenery is a fixture of Japanese culture. The Setouchi region boasts scenic outdoor baths set above sprawling islands. RELATED ARTICLES
ONSEN
The culture of therapeutic bathing and mind by relaxing in a hot bath amid beautiful ever-changing scenery is a fixture of Japanese culture. The Setouchi region boasts scenic outdoor baths set above sprawling islands.
We present to you a collection of short movies filled with stunning western Japan locations that you have almost certainly never seen before. The scenes of Seto Inland Sea islands, beautiful towns and the daily lives of the locals will make you want to book a trip as soon as possible. RELATED ARTICLES
MOVIES
We present to you a collection of short movies filled with stunning western Japan locations that you have almost certainly never seen before. The scenes of Seto Inland Sea islands, beautiful towns and the daily lives of the locals will make you want to book a trip as soon as possible.

Destinations

A peaceful body of water surrounded by Honshu, Shikoku and Kyushu, the Seto Inland Sea is renowned for its many beautiful islands and scenic views. Known also as the Aegean of the East, it attracts countless visitors from around the world. RELATED ARTICLES
SETOUCHI
A peaceful body of water surrounded by Honshu, Shikoku and Kyushu, the Seto Inland Sea is renowned for its many beautiful islands and scenic views. Known also as the Aegean of the East, it attracts countless visitors from around the world.
Okayama, the Land of Sunshine, abounds with the blessings of lush mountains and a bountiful sea, the beauty of nature and the crossroads of prominent Japanese historic heritage. Always a key transport hub in the Setouchi region, in recent years it has also become the gateway to the art of the Seto Inland Sea. RELATED ARTICLES
OKAYAMA
Okayama, the Land of Sunshine, abounds with the blessings of lush mountains and a bountiful sea, the beauty of nature and the crossroads of prominent Japanese historic heritage. Always a key transport hub in the Setouchi region, in recent years it has also become the gateway to the art of the Seto Inland Sea.
Hiroshima, the International City of Peace, is known throughout the world for its two World Heritage sites and for being the setting of superb literary works. This is a compulsory stop for connoisseurs from around Japan looking for unique food culture, not least of which are okonomiyaki, said to be Japan's national dish, and oysters. RELATED ARTICLES
HIROSHIMA
Hiroshima, the International City of Peace, is known throughout the world for its two World Heritage sites and for being the setting of superb literary works. This is a compulsory stop for connoisseurs from around Japan looking for unique food culture, not least of which are okonomiyaki, said to be Japan's national dish, and oysters.
Shimane Prefecture is redolent of tradition, boasting a large number of nationally-recognized historical and cultural treasures such as the Izumo Taisha Grand Shrine and Matsue Castle. Its large number of hot springs means it attracts a large number of people seeking healing in body and soul. It is also popular among visitors who can enjoy the fresh seafood from its Japan Sea coast and traditional foods such as soba noodle and Japanese sweets. RELATED ARTICLES
SHIMANE
Shimane Prefecture is redolent of tradition, boasting a large number of nationally-recognized historical and cultural treasures such as the Izumo Taisha Grand Shrine and Matsue Castle. Its large number of hot springs means it attracts a large number of people seeking healing in body and soul. It is also popular among visitors who can enjoy the fresh seafood from its Japan Sea coast and traditional foods such as soba noodle and Japanese sweets.
In the northern part of the prefecture facing the Sea of Japan, there is a beautiful stretch of coastline of the Tottori Sand Dunes and white sand and pine trees while the south is a majestic mountain range including Mt. Daisen, the tallest peak of the Chugoku region. Tottori is therefore an area of natural beauty changing by the season, where delicacies from the sea and the mountains await. RELATED ARTICLES
TOTTORI
In the northern part of the prefecture facing the Sea of Japan, there is a beautiful stretch of coastline of the Tottori Sand Dunes and white sand and pine trees while the south is a majestic mountain range including Mt. Daisen, the tallest peak of the Chugoku region. Tottori is therefore an area of natural beauty changing by the season, where delicacies from the sea and the mountains await.
Kagawa is the smallest prefecture in Japan. It is famous in Japan and abroad for being home to Sanuki udon, one of the “big three” udon noodle varieties, to the point that Kagawa is also known as “Udon Prefecture.” Kagawa is also gaining ground as a leader of Japan’s art culture by serving as the stage for the Setouchi Trienniale, a renowned contemporary arts festival. RELATED ARTICLES
KAGAWA
Kagawa is the smallest prefecture in Japan. It is famous in Japan and abroad for being home to Sanuki udon, one of the “big three” udon noodle varieties, to the point that Kagawa is also known as “Udon Prefecture.” Kagawa is also gaining ground as a leader of Japan’s art culture by serving as the stage for the Setouchi Trienniale, a renowned contemporary arts festival.
Kochi Prefecture is a premier destination for natural beauty, with its dynamic, warm Kuroshio current-bathed coastline, crystal-clear rivers such as the Niyodogawa famous for its “miracle blue” waters, and ample scenic hotspots. It is also popular as a foodie destination, a variety of seafood including skipjack tuna and its delicious sake rice wine. RELATED ARTICLES
KOCHI
Kochi Prefecture is a premier destination for natural beauty, with its dynamic, warm Kuroshio current-bathed coastline, crystal-clear rivers such as the Niyodogawa famous for its “miracle blue” waters, and ample scenic hotspots. It is also popular as a foodie destination, a variety of seafood including skipjack tuna and its delicious sake rice wine.
Many people flock to Ehime prefecture to soothe their mind and body with the healing waters of Japan's oldest hot springs resort Dogo Onsen, and the breathtaking Tashimabi scenery of numerous islands scattered throughout the Seto Inland Sea, as seen from the Shimanami Kaido bridge route connecting six of the larger islands. In addition to these and other attractions, Ehime is also blessed with a warm climate and locally grown citrus fruits, as well as an abundance of seafood sourced from the three coastal waters that surround it. RELATED ARTICLES
EHIME
Many people flock to Ehime prefecture to soothe their mind and body with the healing waters of Japan's oldest hot springs resort Dogo Onsen, and the breathtaking Tashimabi scenery of numerous islands scattered throughout the Seto Inland Sea, as seen from the Shimanami Kaido bridge route connecting six of the larger islands. In addition to these and other attractions, Ehime is also blessed with a warm climate and locally grown citrus fruits, as well as an abundance of seafood sourced from the three coastal waters that surround it.
Tokushima prefecture magnificently captures the beautiful nature and traditional culture of Japan in its many attractions including the Kazura Bashi Vine Bridge, one of the country's three uniquely structured bridges, and the Iya Valley region with its preserved nostalgic rural scenery. A trip to Tokushima will surely be unforgettable as you marvel at the Naruto whirlpool, one of Japan's top three tidal streams, and experience the excitement of the country's hallmark Tokushima Awa Odori Dance Festival. RELATED ARTICLES
TOKUSHIMA
Tokushima prefecture magnificently captures the beautiful nature and traditional culture of Japan in its many attractions including the Kazura Bashi Vine Bridge, one of the country's three uniquely structured bridges, and the Iya Valley region with its preserved nostalgic rural scenery. A trip to Tokushima will surely be unforgettable as you marvel at the Naruto whirlpool, one of Japan's top three tidal streams, and experience the excitement of the country's hallmark Tokushima Awa Odori Dance Festival.