An Island Shaped by Nature and Fishing
Located approximately 4 km south of the mouth of the Mugi River, Tebajima covers about 0.65 square kilometers. The island has a generally plateau-like landscape, and forests occupy approximately 77% of its area, or around 50 hectares. The settlement spreads in a horseshoe shape around Tebajima Fishing Port, where fishing has long been central to everyday life.
A walking trail circles the island, allowing visitors to explore its natural scenery at a leisurely pace. With no cars on the island, the quiet lanes and paths are ideal for walking, observing local life, and appreciating the surrounding sea and greenery.
Panoramic Views from Tebajima Lighthouse
Tebajima Lighthouse, at the southern end of the island, is a highlight for visitors who enjoy expansive coastal views. On clear days, the surrounding panorama extends toward the Kii Peninsula to the east, Cape Muroto to the west, the Pacific Ocean to the south, and the Shikoku Mountains to the north.
The scenery changes with the seasons and weather, giving the island a different atmosphere throughout the year. A walk toward the lighthouse is an excellent way to experience the island’s open horizons and rugged coastal landscape.
A Historic Fishing Village Preserved in Time
An Important Preservation District for Traditional Buildings
Tebajima’s settlement developed during the late Edo period (1603–1868), encouraged by migration policies under the Tokushima domain. The village expanded further as the bonito fishing industry prospered into the Showa era (1926–1989).
The historic settlement around the harbor inlet in the northern part of the island covers approximately 3.7 hectares. Known as the Mugi Town Tebajima Traditional Buildings Preservation District, it has been designated an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings by the Japanese government.
Traditional fishermen’s houses stand close together along the village lanes, creating a distinctive streetscape that reflects the island’s maritime heritage. The consistent scale and style of the buildings preserve the character of a historic fishing community and offer a glimpse of life in coastal Japan before the widespread arrival of modern transport and infrastructure.
Fishing remains an important part of the island’s identity. Although Tebajima Elementary School closed because of declining student numbers, the community continues to retain its traditions and cultural character.
Rare Plants and Natural Wonders
The Shiratama-mo Habitat at Oike Pond
One of Tebajima’s most remarkable natural features is the habitat of shiratama-mo, a rare freshwater green alga that grows in wetlands and other aquatic environments. The habitat at Oike Pond is designated a Natural Monument of Japan, making it an important site for nature conservation.
The island is also home to subtropical vegetation, including hibiscus, which adds a tropical touch to the landscape. In 2005, a previously unrecognized sedge species was discovered on the island and named Carex tebajimaensis, commonly referred to in Japanese as Tebajima-suge, after Tebajima itself.
Hebi no Makura
Another feature of interest is Hebi no Makura, or “Snake’s Pillow,” a distinctive natural formation associated with the island’s landscape. Along with its rare plants and coastal scenery, this unusual feature adds to Tebajima’s appeal for visitors who enjoy exploring places where natural history and local stories intersect.
Discover Local Culture and Island Life
Village Landmarks
Beyond its traditional houses and walking trails, Tebajima has several places that help visitors understand the community’s history and everyday life. These include Kaneiji Temple, the island’s post office, and the Tebajima Fishing Village Center, where visitors can learn more about the local fishing culture.
The island also has the Taskaru Tower, a tsunami evacuation facility built to support emergency preparedness in this coastal community. As Tebajima is exposed to the Pacific Ocean, visitors should pay attention to local safety information and follow evacuation guidance whenever necessary.
Shima Somen: A Local Specialty
One of Tebajima’s distinctive local dishes is shima somen, or island-style somen noodles. The dish is traditionally served with a dipping sauce made using the flavorful broth left from simmering fresh red seabream caught around the island. This seafood-based seasoning gives the noodles a taste closely connected to the island’s fishing traditions.
For travelers interested in regional food culture, shima somen offers a delicious example of how local ingredients and traditional cooking methods shape the cuisine of a small fishing community.
Getting to Tebajima Island
Tebajima is accessible by the Oike-maru ferry, which operates between Mugi Port and the island. The crossing takes approximately 15 minutes, and the vessel has a capacity of 70 passengers. The ferry is reported to operate six times a day, although schedules and services may change, so visitors should confirm the latest timetable before traveling.
Once on the island, walking is the main way to get around. There are no cars, making it easy to explore the village and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere on foot. The island-circling trail also provides an opportunity to take in its coastal views and natural surroundings. Visitors should allow sufficient time for the return ferry and check departure times when planning their itinerary.
Experience the Quiet Charm of Tebajima
Tebajima brings together a beautifully preserved fishing village, rare natural habitats, traditional food, and sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. Its historic streets offer a glimpse into the lives of generations of fishing families, while the Shiratama-mo habitat and distinctive island flora reveal a remarkable natural environment.
For travelers exploring southern Tokushima, a visit to Tebajima is an opportunity to slow down, walk through a traditional coastal settlement, and experience a quieter side of Japan. The short ferry journey from Mugi Port is the beginning of an island escape where nature, history, and everyday life remain closely connected.