Walk Across the Sea to These Unique Islands
Although the word “island” may suggest that a boat is necessary, Kushima and Suzushima can be reached on foot. From Miwasaki Fishing Port, visitors can walk along the coastal breakwater toward the islands while enjoying expansive views of the Kumano-nada Sea.
Suzushima is only about a five-minute walk from Miwasaki Fishing Port, and visitors can continue on foot from Suzushima to Kushima. The easy access makes the islands particularly attractive for travelers who want to experience a scenic coastal landscape without taking a boat.
Along the way, you can see impressive rock surfaces and unusual geological formations shaped by the sea. Walking among these rocks feels almost like exploring an open-air natural museum. The sound of the waves, the sea breeze, and the rugged coastline create an unforgettable atmosphere that showcases the powerful forces of nature.
Miwasaki Fishing Port and Its Maritime Heritage
Miwasaki Fishing Port serves as the gateway to Kushima and Suzushima. Numerous fishing boats can be seen in the harbor, preserving the atmosphere of a traditional Japanese fishing community. The port has prospered through fishing for generations and continues to support a variety of traditional fishing activities today.
Local fishermen have long engaged in harvesting marine resources such as abalone, sea urchins, and sea cucumbers, as well as fishing for Japanese spiny lobster and bonito. These industries reflect the close relationship between the people of Kumano and the rich waters of the Pacific Ocean.
Approximately 300 years ago, fishermen from Miwasaki are said to have traveled to Karakuwa in Kesennuma, Miyagi Prefecture, where they introduced the traditional pole-and-line fishing method for bonito. Cultural and personal connections between the two regions have continued to this day, demonstrating how fishing traditions helped shape the history and communities of coastal Japan.
A Rich Plant Community on Kushima Island
Kushima, also known as Kushima or Kushima Island, is particularly famous for its extensive stands of hamayū, or spider lilies. This beautiful white-flowered coastal plant is also designated as the official flower of Shingu City. During summer, the flowers add a striking touch of white to the island’s green landscape.
In addition to hamayū, more than 120 species of warm-climate plants belonging to over 50 families have been identified on the island. The abundance of vegetation makes Kushima an excellent destination for visitors interested in botany and nature observation.
The island also provides an important breeding environment for the Japanese bush warbler-like species known as Uchiyama’s warbler, a rare bird that visits the island during the breeding season. The relatively limited presence of mammalian predators creates a favorable environment for birds, adding another layer of ecological interest to Kushima.
Kushima Itsukushima Shrine and the History of Whaling
Kushima is also home to Kushima Itsukushima Shrine, a small sacred site that preserves important traces of the region’s maritime history. Within the shrine grounds are historic stone monuments associated with traditional Japanese whaling, providing a glimpse into the culture and beliefs of communities that depended on the sea.
One stone lantern is said to have been dedicated by Taji Yoichiro Yorimatsu, a member of the Taji whaling organization known as the “Kakuemon family.” Another monument, a Hokke memorial pagoda, was erected by members of the Miwasaki whaling organization. These monuments reflect the religious practices and social traditions surrounding the whaling industry in the region.
The stone structures are also recognized as cultural assets forming part of the Japan Heritage story “Living with Whales.” Together with the island’s natural environment, they demonstrate how closely the people of Kumano have been connected with the ocean for centuries.
Suzushima: A Window into the Earth’s Dynamic Forces
Suzushima offers an especially fascinating experience for visitors interested in geology and the history of the Earth. Geological strata can be seen standing almost vertically as a result of tectonic movements. Evidence of land uplift caused by earthquakes can also be observed, providing a vivid reminder of the powerful geological forces that continue to shape the Japanese archipelago.
The dramatic rock formations are not simply beautiful scenery. They are also records of movements that took place deep within the Earth over immense periods of time. Standing beside these formations offers a rare opportunity to appreciate the dynamic geological history of the Kumano coast.
Tidal Flats and Small Coastal Wildlife
Suzushima also features tidal flats where small fiddler crabs known as chigogani can be found. The shallow coastal environment is suitable for exploring marine life and enjoying simple seaside activities, making the area appealing to families as well as nature lovers.
Approximately 62 species of plants have been identified on Suzushima. Visitors can therefore enjoy a leisurely walk while observing the island’s vegetation and discovering the distinctive ecosystems that have developed along this part of the Kumano coast.
A Scenic Destination for Experiencing Kumano’s Nature
Kushima and Suzushima bring together many of the elements that make the Kumano region so special: dramatic coastal scenery, geological history, rich plant life, wildlife, traditional fishing culture, and religious heritage. Despite being small islands that can be reached on foot, they offer an impressive sense of scale and a strong connection with the natural environment.
The islands are also conveniently located for travelers exploring Shingu City. From Miwasaki Station on the JR Kisei Main Line, it takes approximately 15 minutes on foot to reach the area, making Kushima and Suzushima an easy addition to a Kumano sightseeing itinerary.
Discover the Natural and Cultural Heritage of Kumano
A visit to Kushima and Suzushima is more than a scenic coastal walk. The islands allow travelers to see how the sea, the Earth, plants, wildlife, fishing traditions, and local beliefs have interacted over generations.
Whether you are interested in geology, birdwatching, coastal landscapes, Japanese fishing culture, or simply looking for a peaceful place to enjoy the ocean, these islands offer a memorable experience. When visiting the Kumano area, be sure to take time to explore Kushima and Suzushima and experience the natural and cultural heritage of Wakayama’s Pacific coast.