What Is Kashima Island Like?
A Symbol of Minabe Town
Kashima is a small uninhabited island situated near the coast of Minabe Town. Its distinctive shape resembles two small mountains joined together, and it has been regarded as a special and sacred place since ancient times.
There is also a local tradition concerning the origin of the name “Minabe.” The island’s appearance when viewed from the sea is said to resemble three overturned cooking pots, leading to the ancient name “Minabe”, written with characters meaning “three pots.” This tradition reflects how closely Kashima has been connected with the identity of the local community.
The island retains a rich natural environment, with lush vegetation, clear coastal waters, rocky shores, and quiet coves. Because the island has been protected as a sacred area for generations, much of its natural landscape remains untouched, giving visitors a strong sense of tranquility and spirituality.
A Scenic Island Mentioned in the Man’yoshu
Kashima has an exceptionally long history and is mentioned in the Man’yoshu, Japan’s oldest surviving collection of poetry. It is said that Empress Jito and Emperor Monmu saw the beautiful scenery of this area while traveling toward the hot springs of Shirahama and composed poetry inspired by the landscape.
One of the poems associated with the area describes the shore of Minabe and fishermen and female divers around Kashima. The poem provides a glimpse into how people in ancient Japan admired the beauty of this coastal landscape.
History and Spiritual Significance of Kashima Shrine
A Tradition Dating Back More Than a Thousand Years
Kashima Shrine is traditionally said to have been established before the Nara period after the deity was brought from Kashima Jingu in present-day Ibaraki Prefecture. The shrine’s principal deity, Takemikazuchi-no-Mikoto, is widely revered in Japan as a deity associated with martial arts, victory, and strength, as well as protection against disasters and misfortune.
Because of these associations, Kashima Shrine has attracted prayers not only for safe voyages and successful fishing, but also for protection from natural disasters, success in important endeavors, victory, and safe childbirth.
The shrine was once located in the southeastern part of Kashima Island but was moved to its present location in 1909. Today, the island continues to be carefully protected as a sacred place.
The Legend of the Great Tsunami
One of the most fascinating stories associated with Kashima Shrine is the legend of the Hōei Earthquake and Tsunami.
In 1707, during the Edo period, a massive earthquake struck Japan. A powerful tsunami reached the coast of Kishu, and many coastal communities are said to have suffered severe damage.
According to local tradition, however, something extraordinary happened in the waters off Minabe. A mysterious “demon fire” is said to have emerged from Kashima and divided the approaching tsunami into two waves, protecting the town of Minabe from the worst of the disaster.
Grateful for what they believed was divine protection, local residents began offering fireworks to the deity the following year. This tradition is said to have developed into the Kashima Shrine Dedication Fireworks Festival, which continues today.
Kashima Shrine Dedication Fireworks Festival
A Tradition Continuing for More Than 300 Years
Held every year on August 1, the Kashima Shrine Dedication Fireworks Festival is one of Minabe’s most important summer traditions. With a history of more than 300 years, the festival remains a special event for the local community.
Fireworks are launched over Minabe Bay, creating beautiful reflections on the surface of the sea. The combination of colorful fireworks, the sound of explosions echoing across the water, and the gentle sea breeze creates a memorable summer scene.
An Edo-period fireworks launching tube is also preserved at Kashima Shrine, providing a tangible connection to the festival’s long history.
The event is more than simply a fireworks display. It represents the community’s continuing gratitude toward the deity believed to have protected Minabe from the tsunami. This combination of faith, history, and local tradition makes the festival particularly meaningful.
The Vibrant Kashima Shrine Autumn Festival
A Traditional Celebration Closely Connected to the Sea
On the third Sunday of October, Kashima Shrine holds its lively annual autumn festival. Locally known simply as the “Autumn Festival” or “Festival,” it is one of Minabe’s most important traditional events.
The festival features portable shrines, boat-shaped festival floats, lion dances, drums, and colorful processions through the town. One of the highlights is the “Nando no Yakko Procession,” a traditional performance designated as an intangible folk cultural property of the town.
Festival banners, traditional ceremonial objects, and other decorations from different neighborhoods add to the atmosphere. The sight of the portable shrine being carried through the seaside community reflects the deep relationship between Minabe and the ocean.
Passing Traditions from One Generation to the Next
Children from the local community also participate by carrying a children’s portable shrine. This allows younger generations to become directly involved in the traditions of their community.
After the main ceremonies, local neighborhoods may hold celebratory gatherings, providing an opportunity for residents to strengthen their community bonds. For international visitors, the festival offers a rare opportunity to experience local Japanese culture beyond the typical sightseeing destinations.
Why Visit Kashima Island?
A Short Boat Trip into a Different World
Kashima Island can be reached by boat from Minabe Port. The journey takes only around 10 minutes, but crossing the water creates the feeling of leaving the mainland behind and traveling to a completely different world.
As the boat approaches the island, visitors can enjoy views of the vivid blue sea and lush green vegetation. The peaceful surroundings and absence of urban noise create a serene atmosphere that feels distinctly different from everyday life.
Beautiful Nature and Ocean Views
Kashima offers several scenic viewpoints overlooking the waters around Minabe. Rocky coastal areas, lush vegetation, and glimpses of the ocean between the trees create beautiful landscapes throughout the island.
The island also preserves traces of traditional maritime beliefs, including places associated with Funadama-no-kami, a deity traditionally believed to protect boats and sailors.
Passing through the shrine’s torii gate and walking quietly along the approach to the main sanctuary provides a peaceful moment for reflection. The combination of nature, history, and religious tradition gives Kashima a character that cannot be experienced at an ordinary sightseeing destination.
Access to Kashima Shrine
By Car
Kashima Shrine is approximately 10 minutes by car from the Minabe Interchange on the Hanwa Expressway. The surrounding area offers many opportunities to enjoy coastal scenery, making Minabe a pleasant destination for a scenic road trip.
By Train
From JR Minabe Station, Minabe Port can be reached in approximately 10 minutes on foot. Along the way, visitors can enjoy the peaceful streets and coastal atmosphere that characterize Minabe Town.
Visitors planning to travel to Kashima Island should also check local boat operating schedules and access conditions in advance, as transportation to the uninhabited island may depend on weather and other circumstances.
Discover a Mysterious Island Where the Sea and Faith Meet
Kashima Shrine and Kashima Island represent the natural environment, history, and spiritual traditions of Minabe Town in one remarkable destination. Ancient poetry, legends of protection from tsunamis, centuries-old religious traditions, vibrant festivals, and beautiful coastal scenery all come together here.
Each season offers a different experience, but the summer fireworks festival and autumn festival are especially rewarding times to experience the area’s local traditions and community spirit.
When visiting Minabe Town in Wakayama Prefecture, take the opportunity to discover Kashima Shrine and its mysterious island setting. Surrounded by the sea and untouched nature, it offers a peaceful and memorable experience of Japan’s traditional relationship between people, nature, and the divine.