Geography and Natural Environment
A Forested Island in the Kii Channel
Situated about 6 km offshore from Cape Kamoda, Ishima is characterized by rugged terrain and a rich natural environment. Forest covers approximately 75% of the island, while the western side looks toward the uninhabited islands of Mae-jima and Tanago-jima. The main settlement occupies the coast facing these neighboring islands.
The island’s geology is composed mainly of sandstone, contributing to its steep and uneven landscape. For visitors, this combination of wooded slopes, rocky terrain, and surrounding sea creates a sense of remoteness that is increasingly difficult to find in more developed tourist destinations.
A Protected Coastal Habitat
On December 27, 2001, the area known as “Ishima and Its Surrounding Coastal Waters” was selected for Japan’s 500 Important Wetlands initiative. This recognition highlights the ecological value of the island and its surrounding waters, which support a variety of plants and animals.
As part of the Muroto-Anan Kaigan Quasi-National Park, Ishima offers a chance to appreciate the natural environment of the eastern Tokushima coast. Visitors should take care to protect the island’s habitats and leave the landscape undisturbed.
History of Ishima
Settlement and the Awa Naval Forces
Ishima’s recorded settlement history dates to 1654, during the Edo period, when Somemon Jin’emon moved to the island under the orders of Mori Jinbei, a leader associated with the Awa naval forces. The settlement gradually developed, and the island became an important base for maritime activities in the region.
The island endured major disasters, including a devastating fire in 1865 and another serious fire in 1883. Both caused extensive damage, but the islanders worked hard to rebuild their community and preserve their way of life.
Historic and Cultural Attractions
Tosho Shrine
Tosho Shrine, known historically as Ishima Shrine or Ishima Daimyojin, is one of the island’s most significant places of worship. Its name was changed to the present form after the beginning of the Meiji period in 1868. The exact date of its founding is unknown, but the historical text Awa-shi describes a shrine on Ishima whose principal object of worship was a stone. This tradition reflects the longstanding belief that the island itself possessed a sacred character.
The shrine enshrines three deities: Okitsu-nagisa-biko-no-kami, Okitsu-kaibera-no-kami, and Oku-soko-no-kami. It is particularly distinctive for the combination of these three deities, whose worship has been closely connected with the lives of island residents and fishermen.
The deities are associated with the powers of fire and water. In particular, the deity of fire has traditionally been revered for household safety and protection against fire. A visit to Tosho Shrine offers insight into the spiritual traditions that have shaped life on this remote island for generations.
Shorinji Temple
Shorinji is a Buddhist temple belonging to the Koyasan Shingon school. Its mountain name is Fudarakusan, and its principal image is the Eleven-Headed Kannon, a bodhisattva of compassion depicted with eleven heads.
According to temple tradition, the origins of Shorinji date to the Heian period, when the Buddhist monk Kuya traveled to Ishima. He is said to have undertaken seven days of ascetic practice without sleep or movement and carved the temple’s principal image during his stay. Although the exact founding date is unknown, this story remains central to the temple’s spiritual heritage.
During the Edo period, Mori Jinbei, a prominent figure associated with the Awa naval forces, supported the temple as its patron. Shorinji consequently became an important religious center for the island community. An inner sanctuary, known as the Okunoin Kannondo, stands in the northern part of the island and is traditionally attributed to Kuya’s founding efforts.
For travelers interested in Japanese Buddhism, Shorinji provides a glimpse into the religious traditions that developed alongside the island’s maritime history.
Culture and Local Traditions
Faith Shaped by Island Life
Ishima’s religious heritage reflects the close relationship between its residents and the surrounding natural environment. Tosho Shrine’s deities have long been objects of devotion for islanders and fishermen, while Shorinji preserves traditions associated with Kuya and his ascetic practices.
These sacred sites are more than historical landmarks: they represent the beliefs and customs that have supported the community through generations of maritime work, natural disasters, and social change.
How to Get to Ishima Island
Ferry from Tokushima’s Mainland Coast
Ishima can be reached by the Ishima–Kota-jima ferry route, which connects Ishima Fishing Port with Kota-jima Port in Tsunomine-cho, Anan City, on the mainland. The service is operated by Ishima Renraku Kotsu, a local ferry company.
The ferry operates three round trips per day, and the journey takes approximately 30 minutes each way. The vessel used is the Mishima, a 19-ton light-alloy boat built in 2020.
The nearest railway station to Kota-jima Port is Awa-Tachibana Station on the JR Mugi Line. Travelers should check the latest ferry timetable before setting out, as boat schedules and services may change.
Discover a Quieter Side of Tokushima
Ishima brings together striking coastal scenery, protected natural habitats, and a history shaped by maritime life and religious tradition. Although the island faces the challenges of a declining population, its community continues to preserve its cultural identity and local heritage.
Visitors can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, explore the island’s forested landscape, and discover Tosho Shrine and Shorinji Temple. For those seeking a less-traveled destination in Tokushima Prefecture, Ishima offers a meaningful opportunity to experience the natural beauty and enduring traditions of a small Japanese island.