Chiburijima and the Oki Islands
The Oki Islands are scattered across the Sea of Japan approximately 40 to 80 kilometers off the Shimane Peninsula. The archipelago consists of four inhabited islands—Nishinoshima, Nakanoshima, Chiburijima, and Dogo—along with more than 180 uninhabited islands and smaller islets.
The islands were formed through volcanic activity approximately six million years ago. Today, the geological landscapes and natural environment of the islands are recognized through the Oki UNESCO Global Geopark.
Chiburijima is the smallest of the four inhabited islands and is also the closest to the Japanese mainland. With a circumference of approximately 27 kilometers, the island has no traffic lights or convenience stores. Instead, visitors encounter peaceful roads, open grasslands, grazing livestock, and abundant nature.
It is even possible to encounter more cattle and raccoon dogs than people while exploring the island, an experience that vividly illustrates the relaxed character of Chibu.
Dramatic Natural Landscapes
Mount Akahage
Mount Akahage, rising 325 meters above sea level, is the highest point on Chiburijima and one of the island’s most spectacular viewpoints. The summit can be reached by car, and visitors are rewarded with a sweeping 360-degree panorama.
One of the highlights is the view across the Dozen Caldera, a massive volcanic landscape formed by ancient volcanic activity. The slopes of the mountain are covered with pastureland where cattle graze peacefully, creating a striking combination of volcanic scenery and traditional livestock farming.
Wild raccoon dogs are also commonly associated with the island, adding another distinctive element to the landscape.
Chibu Red Cliff
On the western coast of the island stands Chibu Red Cliff, a spectacular sea cliff extending for approximately one kilometer and rising between 50 and 200 meters above the sea.
The cliff’s vivid reddish-brown color was created when lava produced by volcanic eruptions underwent oxidation. Layers of rock, together with contrasting white and gray rock veins, create a remarkable natural palette that reveals the island’s volcanic history.
Chibu Red Cliff is designated as a Place of Scenic Beauty and Natural Monument of Japan and is one of the most representative sights of Chibu Village.
Shimazushima and Its Crystal-Clear Waters
Shimazushima is an uninhabited island that can be reached on foot by crossing a bridge. Its clear blue waters and contrasting white rock formations create a beautiful coastal landscape.
The island is also home to plants associated with warmer regions, giving it a distinctive natural environment. Visitors can enjoy walking, swimming, and simply taking in the peaceful scenery surrounded by the sea.
Discovering History and Traditional Culture
Chibu has long been connected with maritime transportation and once played an important role as a port of call for Kitamaebune merchant ships that traveled along the Sea of Japan. The village is also associated with Emperor Go-Daigo, who was exiled to the Oki Islands, and numerous historical traditions and stories remain on the island.
Amasashihikonomikoto Shrine
Amasashihikonomikoto Shrine, located in the Kori district, is a historic shrine affectionately known by local residents as “Ichinomiya-san.” The grounds contain a stone traditionally said to have been used as a seat by Emperor Go-Daigo.
The shrine grounds also feature an unusual cultural landscape including a traditional theater and stone seating arranged like an amphitheater. These features provide an interesting glimpse into the local performing arts and community traditions of the island.
Shoyoji Temple
Shoyoji Temple is associated with the history of Emperor Go-Daigo and is located in a quiet mountain setting. Its principal Buddhist image, a statue of Jizo Bodhisattva, preserves stylistic characteristics dating from the late Kamakura to early Muromachi periods and is a valuable cultural heritage item.
Surrounded by forest and silence, the temple offers a peaceful setting where visitors can appreciate the connection between Chibu’s natural environment and its long history.
Traditional Island Life and Community Culture
Life on the small island of Chibu is supported by strong community relationships. Traditions of helping one another and sharing food and goods remain important parts of everyday life.
The island also preserves distinctive folk traditions, including local songs and dances such as Shigesa-bushi, Dossari-bushi, and Minna-i-odori. Customs such as Daishi-mairi and Jizo-san-katsugi provide further opportunities to encounter the island’s unique cultural heritage.
Wildlife Living Alongside the Community
Chiburijima is particularly known for its population of Japanese raccoon dogs. More than 2,000 are believed to inhabit the island, making them a distinctive part of Chibu’s natural environment.
The population is traditionally traced to two raccoon dogs that were brought to the island by people and subsequently multiplied. Today, they have become one of the symbols associated with Chiburijima.
Cattle and horses grazing in open pastures, together with the island’s diverse plant life, add to the rich ecosystem. The close relationship between people, livestock, wildlife, and the natural landscape is one of Chibu’s most memorable characteristics.
The Islands of Chibu Village
Chiburijima
Chiburijima is the main inhabited island and home to approximately 600 residents. Its landscape was shaped by volcanic activity, and major attractions include Mount Akahage and Chibu Red Cliff. The island offers a close look at a way of life in which nature and the local community remain deeply connected.
Shimazushima
Shimazushima is an uninhabited island accessible by bridge. Its transparent waters, white rock formations, and warm-climate vegetation make it a scenic place for walking and swimming.
Kamishima
Kamishima has traditionally been regarded as a sacred island. According to local tradition, a deity appearing in Japanese mythology once resided here. Covered with vegetation on steep slopes, the quiet island has a distinctly mysterious atmosphere.
Ohakajima and Konamihakajima
Ohakajima and Konamihakajima are characterized by dramatic rock formations, including columnar joints, and rich marine ecosystems. Ohakajima is also known as a breeding area for seabirds, offering a vivid example of the natural forces shaping the Oki Islands.
Kuriooshima, Tawara Island, and Other Small Islands
Kuriooshima is connected to the main island by land and is associated with legends concerning Emperor Go-Daigo. Tawara Island, meanwhile, is named for its distinctive rock formation, which resembles a stack of traditional rice bales.
Recommended Places to Visit
Mount Akahage
At 325 meters, Mount Akahage is the highest point on Chiburijima. Its summit offers panoramic views of the Dozen Caldera, while the surrounding grasslands are used as pasture for cattle. The area is also a popular place to watch the sunset.
Chibu Red Cliff
This dramatic red sea cliff reaches up to 200 meters in height and reveals the geological history of the island. Its richly colored layers and contrasting rock veins make it one of Chibu’s most striking natural landmarks.
Shimazushima and Watatsu Beach
Watatsu Beach features shallow water, white sand, and excellent water clarity. During summer, families gather here to enjoy the sea, while activities such as stand-up paddleboarding can also be enjoyed in the surrounding waters.
Amasashihikonomikoto Shrine
Known locally as Ichinomiya-san, this historic shrine is an important place of worship in Chibu. The grounds include the stone associated with Emperor Go-Daigo, making it a fascinating destination for travelers interested in both history and traditional religion.
Shoyoji Temple
Associated with Emperor Go-Daigo, Shoyoji Temple stands quietly in the mountains. Its historic Buddhist statue and peaceful natural surroundings make it a place to experience the island’s spiritual and historical atmosphere.
Kawai Spring
Kawai Spring is a clear natural spring recognized as one of the notable waters of Shimane Prefecture. The spring has long been valued by island residents, both as an important source of water and as part of the island’s local traditions.
Uguisugasaki Cape
Uguisugasaki Cape lies at the northwestern tip of Chiburijima. The cape offers expansive views of the rugged coastline and open sea, with particularly beautiful scenery around sunset as the sun descends toward the horizon.
Myogaki
Myogaki consists of stone walls extending for approximately one kilometer. They are associated with makihata, a traditional agricultural system unique to the Oki Islands. The walls provide an opportunity to see how local people adapted agriculture to the island’s natural environment.
Nagao Beach
Nagao Beach is a quiet and peaceful beach where visitors can enjoy a more secluded seaside experience. The combination of clear water and white sand creates a beautiful setting for relaxing away from busier tourist areas.
New Flavors and Opportunities to Meet Island Residents
In recent years, people who have moved to Chibu from other parts of Japan have brought new ideas and energy to the island. A growing selection of restaurants and cafés makes use of local ingredients, including French-style cuisine, eateries serving fresh local fish and marinated seafood rice bowls, and cafés created by renovating old cattle barns.
These new businesses coexist with traditional island culture, creating an interesting blend of old and new. The warm personal connections that are possible in a small island community also make dining and interacting with local residents a memorable part of the Chibu experience.
A Special Journey into the Heart of Island Life
Chibu Village may not offer the convenience of a major city, but its slower pace is precisely what makes the island special. The dramatic volcanic landscapes, historic sites, traditional customs, abundant wildlife, and warm community atmosphere provide an opportunity to experience a different kind of richness.
For travelers seeking magnificent nature and an authentic island atmosphere, Chibu offers a chance to step away from everyday life and discover a quieter side of Japan. From the panoramic views of Mount Akahage to the vivid cliffs of Chibu Red Cliff, from historic shrines and temples to peaceful beaches and grasslands, the island offers experiences that are deeply connected to its landscape and people.
Chibu Village is an island where tranquility, nature, history, and human warmth come together. A visit here can become a memorable journey into a slower and more intimate side of the Oki Islands.