Overview
Awashima Island rises from the Sea of Japan about 35 km northwest of Murakami City in northern Niigata Prefecture. The entire island forms the village of Awashimaura in Iwafune District, covering roughly 9.69 square kilometers and reaching a high point of 265.3 meters. With a population of around 412, it is a quiet, sea-girt island.
Highlights
- ●An offshore island ringed by the Sea of Japan
- ●Mountainous terrain rising to 265.3 meters
- ●History reaching back to Jomon-period ruins
- ●Island life built on farming, fishing and tourism
History
In the past the island was also written 粟生島, and ruins dating to the Jomon period have been found here. In the 1964 Niigata earthquake the whole island was uplifted by about one meter, and its rice paddies are said to have disappeared as a result.
Access
Awashima is an offshore island about 35 km northwest of Murakami City in the Sea of Japan, entirely making up the village of Awashimaura. Access is by boat, so please check sailing routes and schedules on maps and official information.
Best season
Early summer through summer, when the sea is calm and mild, is the best time to visit. The hour around sunset, as the sun sinks into the Sea of Japan, is especially memorable.
Map
38.4610, 139.2406 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Cross by boat to Awashima from the Murakami side
- 2Stroll through the settlements of Awashimaura
- 3Enjoy views from the island's heights and coastline
- 4End the day watching the sun set into the Sea of Japan
Did you know?
💡 The 1964 Niigata earthquake lifted the entire island by roughly one meter, causing its former rice paddies to vanish. Today farming, fishing and tourism are the island's main industries.
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