Overview
Izushima is a small island in the Oshika Islands, belonging to the town of Onagawa in Miyagi Prefecture. Covering about 2.62 square kilometres with a circumference of roughly 14 kilometres and a high point around 87 metres, it is a quiet fishing island tucked into the rias coastline of the Sanriku region. Once home to a busy fishing community, it now offers a peaceful landscape of coves, harbours and open sea, ideal for travellers seeking stillness far from the city.
Highlights
- ●Coves and quiet fishing hamlets cradled by the rias coast
- ●Panoramas of the Oshika Islands and the Pacific from the 87-metre high point
- ●Clear waters and rocky shores made for slow seaside strolls
- ●Traces of island life carried on through depopulation and disaster
History
People have long lived on Izushima by fishing, and its northern settlement gave the island its administrative district. At its peak roughly 1,800 people lived here, but depopulation gradually took hold. At the time of the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake the population was about 450, and by the end of November 2019 it had fallen to just 77. The disaster left a deep mark on island life, which for many years depended on boats to reach the mainland. In recent years a bridge to the mainland has opened a new chapter in the island's story.
Access
The island lies off the coast of Onagawa, at roughly 38.45 degrees north and 141.52 degrees east. It was traditionally reached by boat from ports such as Onagawa, but a bridge now links the mainland to the southwestern side of the island, allowing access by car. Because ferry schedules and road conditions vary with the season and weather, check the latest routes and timetables with the town of Onagawa or the operators before you travel.
Best season
Early summer through autumn is the finest time, when the sea is clear and the shoreline pleasant for walking and exploring the rocky coast. Calm, low-wind days are best for taking in the quiet fishing hamlets. Winter brings strong north winds and rough seas, so dress warmly and confirm whether boats are running.
Map
38.4514, 141.5233 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Cross to Izushima from Onagawa's port or the new bridge and take in the gateway
- 2Wander the northern Izushima settlement, its lanes and small harbour
- 3Climb to a rise for a sweeping view of the islands and open sea
- 4Linger by the rocky shore listening to the waves before heading back
Did you know?
💡 Izushima is one of the Oshika Islands, and despite measuring only about 2.62 square kilometres it rises to 87 metres. The dramatic fall in population from around 1,800 at its peak to double digits after the earthquake mirrors the wider story of Sanriku's islands. Note that this Izushima has no connection to the famous Dejima in Nagasaki, and is read as a place unto itself.
Nearby spots
Traveler reviews0
No reviews yet. Be the first to share!