Every year around the time the cherry blossoms fall, I have an irresistible urge to visit a southern island. Aragusukujima (Aragusuku Island), introduced here, is a small island located in Yaeyama County, Okinawa Prefecture. Aragusukujima consists of two islands, Kamijijima and Shimojijima, and the distance between the two is about 400 meters, so it is possible to walk across at low tide. It is very enjoyable to walk across and see a variety of creatures in the tide pools.
The population of Aragusuku Island is about 13 on Kamiji Island, and Shimoji Island has only a ranch. Walking near the ranch, I saw cows and goats looking at me in a curious way. People who have left the island return during festivals and other occasions to visit their graves. The island has a sacred place enclosed in a square, which travelers are not allowed to enter, so be careful.
There are no regular boats to access the island, and as a rule, individual entry is prohibited. It is necessary to join a tour from Ishigaki or Iriomote Island. If you walk around with a local guide, you can learn about the history, culture, and customs of the island, and it will be an enjoyable trip. If you want to spend a leisurely time somewhere, you can consult with a local guide about it.
It is said that there were dugongs in the sea around the island. The sea here is said to be the best in Yaeyama with beautiful and untouched coral reefs. Next time I visit the island, I would like to go back for diving.
© Source travel watch
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