Overview
Ōmishima is an inhabited island in the Geiyo Islands chain, administered by Imabari in Ehime Prefecture and set in the Seto Inland Sea. It is the largest island belonging to Ehime, covering about 64.54 square kilometers. Long known as the "island of the gods," it is home to Oyamazumi Shrine.
Highlights
- ●The largest island in Ehime Prefecture, spanning roughly 64.54 square kilometers
- ●Oyamazumi Shrine, the source of the island's reputation as the "island of the gods"
- ●A location on the Nishiseto Expressway route linking Honshu and Shikoku
- ●Island scenery recognized among Japan's designated places of scenic beauty
History
In earlier times the island was called "Mishima," a name said to derive from older forms, and it appears as such on the historic Gyōki-style maps. Oyamazumi Shrine on the island was itself referred to as "Ōmishima" in documents dating to the Kamakura period; over the Edo period the distinction between the island's name and the shrine's name gradually faded, and the island too came to be called Ōmishima.
Access
The island is administered by Imabari, and the Nishiseto Expressway, which links Honshu and Shikoku, runs across it. This placement makes it convenient to reach together with the neighboring islands.
Best season
Thanks to the mild climate of the Seto Inland Sea, the island's scenery can be enjoyed throughout the year. Clear-weather periods in particular bring sharp views of the sea and island silhouettes.
Map
34.2450, 133.0100 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Enter Ōmishima via the Nishiseto Expressway
- 2Visit Oyamazumi Shrine, the origin of the "island of the gods" name
- 3Explore the island scenery counted among scenic-beauty sites
- 4Take in Seto Inland Sea views as one of the Ochi Islands
Did you know?
💡 The island's name is said to derive either from older readings meaning "the island" or from the name of Oyamazumi Shrine, which was called Ōmishima.
Nearby spots
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