Guide
Megijima is a small, charming island located approximately 4 km northeast of Takamatsu City, Kagawa Prefecture, with a circumference of about 9 km. As part of the Setonaikai National Park, it offers breathtaking natural scenery. The island gained widespread fame following the 1914 discovery of a massive cave by a local teacher, Sentaro Hashimoto. This cave became closely associated with the legendary 'Onigashima' from the Momotaro folk tale, making Megijima a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts. Thanks to its excellent accessibility—only a 20-minute ferry ride from the bustling Takamatsu city center—it has become a popular destination for both relaxation and sightseeing.
The history of Megijima is deeply intertwined with the Momotaro legend. Since the discovery of the cave in 1914, the island has been celebrated as the real-life setting for the legendary 'Onigashima.' Another unique cultural feature is the 'Ote'—sturdy stone walls built 3 to 4 meters high around traditional houses. These walls serve as traditional wind and wave barriers against harsh winter winds and high tides, creating a distinctive landscape. The island also preserves traces of its past, such as the era when women would carry heavy loads on their heads as a part of daily life, reflecting a culture deeply rooted in the sea and land.
The island is dotted with spots where history and nature meet. The most iconic is the 'Onigashima Great Cave' located near the summit of Mt. Washimine. This impressive cave, stretching approximately 400 meters, is a vital piece of the island's heritage. For a spectacular view, head to the 'Washimine Observatory' located just above the cave, which offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the many islands in the Seto Inland Sea. You will also find unique landmarks like the 'Moai Statues,' inspired by the famous figures of Easter Island. Other natural highlights include Onigashima Beach, selected as one of Japan's top 100 beaches, and various viewpoints perfect for watching the sunset.
The most spectacular time to visit Megijima is during the spring cherry blossom season. Approximately 3,000 cherry trees bloom across the island, bathing the landscape in soft pink hues. The early morning and evening hours are also highly recommended for viewing the sunrise and sunset over the calm waters of the Seto Inland Sea. Depending on the season, the scenery changes from the vibrant pink of cherry blossoms to the elegant white of narcissus flowers (often seen in contrast with the neighboring Ogijima island) and the serene blue of the coastline.
Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls through nature or relaxing moments by the sea. The most common way to explore the island is by renting a bicycle, which allows you to navigate the coastal paths and the undulating terrain easily. During the summer, the island is a great place for swimming and enjoying the beach. There are also local accommodations and cafes where you can stay overnight and enjoy meals prepared with fresh, local seafood and vegetables.
Megijima is often paired with its neighbor, Ogijima. In local lore, Megijima is sometimes referred to as the 'female' island and Ogijima as the 'male' island. Regular ferry services connect the two, making it easy to include both in a single island-hopping itinerary. While Megijima is famous for cherry blossoms, Ogijima offers beautiful seasonal flower displays like narcissus.
Because the island has many slopes and uneven paths, comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended. Please plan your movements around the ferry arrival times to ensure you can catch local transportation. Note that cash is often required for ferries and certain local facilities. As this is a quiet residential island, please be respectful of the local community by managing your trash and keeping noise levels low.