Kamome Island in Esashi Town is a small island connected to the mainland by a breakwater. With a circumference of about 2.6 km and an elevation of about 30 m, it spreads out over the sea as if it were protecting the town of Esashi. Kamome Island is truly the symbol of Esashi, and there are many historical spots, so why not take a stroll around the island? It is possible to walk to Kamome Island, which is connected to the town of Esashi. Moreover, it takes about an hour to walk around the island, so it is just the right distance for sightseeing.

(Photo courtesy of Esashi Town Hall Oiwake Tourism Division)

Kamome Island is one of the cultural properties included in the story of Esashi Town, "Esashi's May is Not Like Edo's -- A Town Where Herring Prospers," which was certified as a Japan Heritage Site in 2017, and there are many cultural properties scattered around the island. For example, the first thing that catches your eye when you enter the island is a large rock and a red torii gate sitting in the sea. This is a huge rock called "Binkoiwa" that appears in the "Orii Legend" handed down in Esashi. The 30m long shimenawa rope is hung by young fishermen from the town during the "Kamome Island Festival" held every July. If you step into the island, a small shrine will catch your eye. This is Itsukushima Shrine, which was founded in 1615. Along with the chozuishi (water purification stone) and stone torii gates within the shrine grounds, this is also a cultural asset. There are other cultural assets here and there, such as the remains of the stairs and the remains of the banquet hall for Esashi merchants. Many people may not even notice them because they are so naturally there. If you are interested in history, we recommend doing some research beforehand. In the open area at the top of Kamome Island, there is the Kamome Island Lighthouse, which, although not a cultural asset, is a popular spot for taking commemorative photos. Now, a new experiment is being carried out at this location: "Kamome Island Marine Ping." A 6m diameter dome-shaped tent is set up next to the lighthouse, allowing visitors to experience the ocean while enjoying glamping.

(Photo courtesy of Esashi Town Hall Oiwake Tourism Division)

This is the first event of 2021 and will run until October 24th. It is planned to be held annually from spring to autumn from 2022 onwards, so if you are interested, please check the website below. With the addition of new ways to enjoy Kamome Island, it looks set to become an even more popular spot. ▼For more information, please see the Domingo spot page. Kamome Island <Kamome Island Marine Ping> Official website: https://marineping.esashi.town <Interview cooperation and thumbnail photo provided> Esashi Town Office, Oiwake Tourism Division Location: 193-1 Nakautacho, Esashi-cho, Hiyama-gun, Hokkaido Phone: 0139-52-1020 (main) Official website: https://www.hokkaido-esashi.jp