The Oki Islands are a part of Daisen-Oki National Park, and are also designated as a UNESCO Global Geopark. The area is composed of an environment which includes endemic species and geological features of international value. In order to pass on the precious natural environment to future generations, we highly appreciate your understanding and cooperation in following the rules and manners of the Oki Islands.
Numerous festivals of the Oki Islands have been passed down from ancient times, and they reflect the unique culture of the islands. A lot of the festivals have a religious background, therefore visitors should be careful when participating. Another characteristic of the festivals is that compared to urban areas, there are fewer visitors and participants are mostly local residents. A good rule of thumb is to observe the local people around you and read the atmosphere. Please keep in mind the following:
Shinto rituals before Mina-ichi Dance,
Chibu Village
Uma-ire-shinji ritual,
Tamawakasu-mikoto Shrine,
Okinoshima Town
Mikoshi (Portable Shrine)
Procession, Yurahime Shrine Festival,
Nishinoshima Town
While there is no need for heavy equipment when hiking in the Oki Islands, please make sure to wear adequate clothing and bring some food and drink.
Wear a light-coloured hat. It is good to avoid dark colours as wasps and hornets are sensitive to them.
Cover your skin to protect yourself from potential abrasions or dangerous plants and insects.
Necessary when hiking Mt. Daimanji and Washigamine Ridge trails.
Cover your skin to protect yourself from potential abrasions or dangerous plants and insects. Wasps and hornets are sensitive to dark colours so choose light-coloured clothing.
Some trails are steep. Put your supplies in a backpack to have both hands free when hiking.
There are some steep trails in the Oki Islands so we recommend wearing light hiking shoes. Put on some long socks too, in order to protect yourself from insects or dangerous plants.
To find out more about hiking and walking trails on the Oki Islands please refer to our Pocket Guide to Outdoor Activities in the Oki Islands. Are you interested in joining a hiking tour? Check out the following pages for guided hiking tours to Mt. Takata, Shirashima Coast, and Washigamine Ridge.
The best season for marine sports is from mid-July through August.
Cover your skin to protect yourself from potential scrapes, sunburn and dangerous sea animals or plants.
Protect your feet from the rocky sea bottom, or potential threats such as marine litter or sharp shells.
Make sure to check the weather forecast before setting out on your excursion. Do not hike or take part in water sports when a thunderstorm advisory is in effect. Please inquire about the latest information on the hiking trails and sea bathing conditions at the local tourism offices. For detailed information about weather conditions on the Oki Islands throughout the year, see this page.