Overview and Geography
Tsushima is located approximately 2 kilometers east of the northern tip of Tebajima Island, in Mugi Town, Kaifu District, Tokushima Prefecture. The island has a distinctive shape, narrowing at the center and spreading into two larger sections to the east and west. Its highest point reaches 44 meters above sea level, and warm-climate vegetation covers much of the island.
A Rich Natural Environment
Most of Tsushima is covered with evergreen broadleaf forests dominated by chinquapin trees. The steep coastal cliffs are also home to clusters of banyan trees and Japanese black pines. These distinctive plant communities were designated a National Natural Monument in 1973 under the name “Warm-Climate Plant Communities of Tsushima.” The designation recognizes the island’s botanical importance and the need to protect its natural environment.
A Renowned Fishing Destination
Tsushima, together with nearby Oshima Island, is well known among fishing enthusiasts. The surrounding small islands and rocky fishing grounds are divided into seven areas, and anglers use a lottery system to determine access to particular fishing spots. This arrangement reflects the popularity of the area and the value of its offshore fishing grounds.
Oshima Island, Tokushima
A Rugged Uninhabited Island Famous for Fishing and Diving
Oshima is an uninhabited island in Mugi Town, Tokushima Prefecture. With a coastline of approximately 8 kilometers, it retains much of its natural beauty and is known as a destination for fishing and diving. The island has also been selected as one of the “Tokushima 88 Scenic Views,” recognizing its appeal as a place of outstanding natural scenery.
Steep Terrain and Dramatic Cliffs
Oshima rises to approximately 200 meters above sea level and has a rugged, steep-sided landscape. Much of its coastline consists of precipitous cliffs, making landing difficult except at the boat landing on the western side. The challenging terrain has helped preserve the island’s natural environment, leaving much of it largely untouched by human activity.
Chinpo-iwa and Katsuo no Tataki-iwa
On the western side of the island is a rock formation known as Chinpo-iwa, whose shape resembles the tip of the male reproductive organ. According to local tradition, this rock is associated with an annual festival called Himegami Festival.
On the southwestern side stands a cliff approximately 100 meters high known as Katsuo no Tataki-iwa, a name referring to the Japanese dish katsuo no tataki, lightly seared bonito. This distinctive landmark was given its name in 2024.
Island Forests and Marine Life
The island is covered in forest, with Japanese bay trees and Shiratama-kazura among its characteristic plants. Coral reefs extend into the surrounding waters, which support a variety of temperate and subtropical marine life, including grunt and clownfish.
Visitors should be aware that ticks capable of transmitting Japanese spotted fever are present on the island. Anyone visiting should take appropriate precautions against tick bites and avoid walking through vegetation without suitable protection.
How to Visit Oshima
Access to Oshima is by boat from Mugi Port. There is no regular ferry service, so visitors must arrange transportation in advance through a local diving club or boat operator. The island is privately owned, and entering without permission is prohibited. Anyone planning a visit should confirm access arrangements and obtain the necessary authorization beforehand.
Tebajima Island, Tokushima
A Living Fishing Island with Traditional Culture and Historic Streets
Tebajima is an inhabited island belonging to Mugi Town in Tokushima Prefecture. With a traditional fishing culture that remains an important part of daily life, the island offers visitors a glimpse of a coastal community shaped by the sea. Except for the settlement area, the island is included in Muroto-Anan Quasi-National Park.
Island Overview and Walking Trails
Tebajima lies approximately 4 kilometers south of the mouth of the Mugi River, facing the Pacific Ocean. It covers about 0.65 square kilometers, and approximately 77 percent of its land area is forested. Walking trails run around the island, allowing visitors to explore its natural scenery and reach Tebajima Lighthouse, where wide-ranging coastal views can be enjoyed.
Tebajima Lighthouse
Located at the end of a walking trail, Tebajima Lighthouse is a scenic viewpoint with views in every direction. On clear days, visitors can look east toward Kishu, west toward Cape Muroto, south across the Pacific Ocean, and north toward the Shikoku Mountains. It is an excellent place to appreciate the island’s setting between the mountains and the open sea.
Shiratama-mo Habitat at Oike Pond
Tebajima is home to the Oike Pond habitat of Shiratama-mo, a rare aquatic plant community designated as a National Natural Monument. The site is of particular interest to nature enthusiasts and visitors who want to learn about the island’s distinctive plant life. As a protected natural area, it should be explored with care to avoid disturbing the habitat.
An Important Preservation District for Traditional Buildings
Tebajima’s historic fishing village has been designated an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings. The settlement developed from the Edo period through the early Showa period, growing alongside the prosperity of the local bonito fishing industry.
Traditional fishermen’s houses stand in orderly rows, creating a distinctive streetscape that reflects the island’s maritime history. The village is valued for preserving the appearance and character of a traditional Japanese fishing community.
Local Cuisine: Island Somen Noodles
One of Tebajima’s traditional dishes is shima somen, or island somen noodles. Its defining feature is the use of the simmering broth from red tilefish caught around the island as the dipping sauce for the noodles. This simple but distinctive dish reflects the island’s fishing heritage and offers visitors a taste of its local food culture.
Getting to Tebajima
Tebajima can be reached by the ferry Taiseimaru from Mugi Port. The crossing takes approximately 15 minutes, with six round trips per day according to the source information. Travelers should check the current timetable before departure, as ferry services may change with weather and operating conditions.
Discover the Islands of Mugi Town
Tsushima, Oshima, and Tebajima each offer a different way to experience the coastal landscapes of Mugi Town in Tokushima Prefecture. Tsushima is notable for its protected warm-climate vegetation, Oshima for its rugged cliffs and marine environment, and Tebajima for its living fishing community, traditional architecture, and distinctive local cuisine.
These islands appeal to visitors interested in nature, fishing, hiking, diving, and regional history. Because access arrangements differ from island to island, it is important to confirm boat services, obtain permission where required, and prepare appropriately for the natural environment. Respecting local communities and protected habitats helps preserve the islands’ unique character for future generations.