Yagishiri Island (焼尻島)
is one of the two islands of the town of Haboro. It is located in the Sea of
Japan, 23 kilometres (14 mi) northwest of Haboro Bay in Haboro, Hokkaido
Prefecture, Japan.
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| Yagishiri Island |
Yagishiri Island Details
Yagishiri Island boasts a rich history as a Pacific herring
fishing hub, a tradition that dates back to 1786. Over time, the island has
experienced a significant population decline, with its peak population of 2,283
in 1947 dwindling to just 273 residents by 2010. Despite these changes,
Yagishiri remains a must-visit destination for travelers seeking natural beauty
and a glimpse into Japan's coastal heritage.
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| Yagishiri Island - Haboro town, Hokkaido Prefecture |
Geography and Features of Yagishiri Island
Yagishiri Island spans approximately 5.34 square kilometers (2.06
square miles) and features a coastline stretching 12 kilometers (7.5 miles).
The island's relatively flat terrain, with its highest point reaching only 97
meters (318 feet), sets it apart from its neighboring island, Teuri. Composed
primarily of Tertiary-period andesite, the island boasts four marine terraces
and dramatic marine cliffs that add to its scenic allure.
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| Welcome to Yagishiri Island |
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| Yagishiri Ferry Terminal |
A Forest Steeped in History
Yagishiri Island is renowned for its dense, reforested
landscape, which has been carefully preserved after facing near-total
deforestation during the late 18th-century Pacific herring trade. In 1880, tree
cutting was prohibited to combat deforestation, but a fire in 1886 destroyed
two-thirds of the island's forest. Today, Yagishiri's forest has been restored
and is home to 50 tree species, including the iconic Taxus cuspidata or
Japanese yew.
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| Yagishiri Yew Forest |
The untouched Uguisu Valley at the heart of the island is
particularly notable. Here, climatic conditions from the Sea of Japan keep the
forest canopy low at 10 meters (33 feet), with tree trunks growing thick and
resilient. This unique ecosystem has earned Yagishiri's forest the designation
of a protected natural monument of Japan.
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| Yagishiri Port |
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| Most of the houses in Yagishiri are located near the port area. As of 2010, there are only 273 residents living on the island. |
A Part of Shokanbetsu-Teuri-Yagishiri Quasi-National Park
The entire island is safeguarded as part of the Shokanbetsu-Teuri-Yagishiri Quasi-National Park, ensuring the preservation of its natural beauty for generations to come. Whether you're an avid nature enthusiast or a curious traveler, Yagishiri Island offers an unparalleled experience.
Photos around the Yagishiri Island
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| You can go around the island via Route 255 |
Must-visit spots in Yagishiri Island
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| Engineer Highway Monument |
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| The northern coast of Yagishiri, as seen from the monument |
🐑 Engineer Highway Monument (工兵街道記念碑)
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| Yagishiri Itsukushima Shrine |
🐑 Yagishiri Itsukushima Shrine (焼尻島厳島神社)
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| Hibarigaoka Park |
🐑 Hibarigaoka Park (雲雀ヶ丘公園)
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| Hawk's Nest Park |
🐑 Hawk’s Nest Park (鷹の巣園地)
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| Shirahama Campsite |
🐑 Shirahama Campsite (白浜野営場)
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| Shirahama Coast as seen from Route 255 |
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| Shirahama Coast |
🐑 Shirahama Coast (白浜海岸)
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| Yagishiri Local Museum |
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| Inside Yagishiri Local Museum |
🐑 Yagishiri Local Museum (焼尻郷土館)
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| Yagishiri Sheep Farm |
🐑 Yagishiri Sheep Farm (めん羊牧場)
Team Nicerio visits Yagishiri Island
On June 25, 2023, during our Father and Daughter Road Trip 4, my daughter and I, along with the Tomamae Gang, visited Yagishiri Island for the first time. It was my 601st day in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme. We rented bikes and explored the island under clear skies, enjoying the refreshing breeze and stunning views. It was a day full of fun and unforgettable memories!
Why Visit Yagishiri Island?
Yagishiri Island is a haven for those who appreciate natural wonders and cultural history. From its breathtaking marine terraces to its ancient forests, this island is a perfect destination for hiking, photography, and immersing oneself in Japan's rich ecological and historical tapestry.
Getting to Yagishiri Island
Reaching Yagishiri Island is a breeze, thanks to its well-connected ferry services. Departing from the port at Haboro, two ferries provide access to this serene island:
- Ororon 2: A relaxing 60-minute journey that offers stunning views of the Sea of Japan.
- Sunrise 2: A faster option, taking just 35 minutes to reach the island.
Seasonal Schedules:
- Winter: The Ororon 2 operates with one trip per day.
- Peak Tourist Season (August): Both ferries ramp up service, running three trips daily to accommodate the influx of visitors.
Exploring the Island
Once you arrive, getting around Yagishiri is simple. A single road, Route 255, also called Yagishiri Road (焼尻島線), loops around the island, making it easy to explore its scenic beauty, dense forests, and historical sites at your own pace. You can rent a bike at Rent-a-Cycle Umehara, located beside Yagishiri Ferry Terminal.
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